Build shade and rest into the day

Start with the outdoor activity that asks the most of your group. Place it in a cooler part of the day, then add regular rests and shade to that part of the itinerary. [source]

Keep the plan flexible around the place and date you choose. For a volcano outing, settle the transport, guide and return through the Santa Ana Volcano and Cerro Verde guide, then decide where shaded pauses fit around those arrangements.

Prepare what you will wear

Wear loose, lightweight clothing for time outdoors in hot weather. [source] Set out the clothes for the day beside the other items you plan to carry, especially when the itinerary includes several outdoor stops.

For sun protection, combine shade with protective clothing, a brimmed hat and sunscreen. [source] Keep those parts together when packing for the day. The packing guide helps organize other practical items and documents.

Match the plan to the activity

Use the same preparation for a city walk, coast day or mountain outing, then adjust the pace and shaded rests to the activity you chose. The things to do guide and Pacific coast swimming guide help keep each activity’s other arrangements together.

Common questions

When should I plan a strenuous outdoor activity?

Plan strenuous outdoor activity for a cooler part of the day, rest often and use shade. [source] Choose the cooler part for the particular place and date in your itinerary. Add shaded pauses to the plan, and revisit that plan when you change the activity or destination.

What clothing should I prepare for hot weather?

Wear loose, lightweight clothing when spending time outdoors in hot weather. [source] Put the clothing you intend to use beside the day plan for your walks and other outdoor activities. Keep a change available when your itinerary includes more than one outdoor stop.

What should I combine for sun protection?

Combine shade with protective clothing, a brimmed hat and sunscreen for sun protection. [source] Add each part to the same outdoor plan so one item does not replace the others. Keep the hat, clothing and sunscreen easy to reach before leaving for the activity.

Sources

  1. Plan strenuous outdoor activity for a cooler part of the day, rest often and use shade.U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Travelers' Health · World Health Organization · UK Health Security Agency · WA Country Health Service
    Checked Sep 2026
  2. Wear loose, lightweight clothing when spending time outdoors in hot weather.U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Travelers' Health · World Health Organization · UK Health Security Agency · WA Country Health Service
    Checked Sep 2026
  3. Combine shade with protective clothing, a brimmed hat and sunscreen for sun protection.U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention · World Health Organization
    Checked Sep 2026

Travel information only; for medical or legal decisions, consult a qualified professional.