Summers in Europe are, unfortunately, getting hotter each year.

And while we were accustomed to some days of scorching hot temps in August – I’ve been pretty “baked” on my first trip to Budapest in August 2007 – , days on end of temperatures exceeded 30-35C (86-95F) aren’t exactly the norm here.

Well, that’s until 2021, when nature decided to slap us on wrists and not-so-nicely hit us with heatwaves after heatwaves.
At my base in Western Romania, I’ve turned on the AC since the end of June, and in mid to late July, we’ve had 5 days of temps around 38C / 100F.

I’ve written before about how to stay safe if you decided to travel during summer.

In this article, however, I’m going to highlight some items that can make a difference whether you are indoors or outdoors.

Laptop cooling pad

While a cooling pad is something you should consider using year-round, it’s even most important in summer to help your laptop cool down. None of your gadgets love the heat and your laptop isn’t an exception.

There are plenty of options, but you’d want one that’s slightly bigger than your laptop and it’s quiet. The last thing you want is for the fan to make enough noise to be heard in your zoom meetings – yikes!

This cooling pad is ultra-portable so you can take it without wherever you go. It’s also ergonomic and provides you with an additional USB port (to replace the one you “sacrifice” for the cooling pad).

Desktop table cooling fan

When you don’t have an AC and the room fan isn’t helping much, a desktop table cooling fan can help quite a bit. You want one that supports the blades running at high speeds, such as this one. And you also want it to have adjustable speeds, be quiet, and be USB powered.

Ice cube mold ice trays

Once spring arrives, my ice cube trays go in the freezer, ready to cook me down. And they do quite a bit of “work” during the hot days. Nothing is better than a few ice cubes thrown in a cup of water when you get home – and you’ve forgotten to put your water bottle in the fridge. And of course, a café frape or any type of cold brew needs ice cubes.

What you need to look for though are easy-release silicon trays, such as these ones. No one loves to wrestle those old inflexible ones!

Oh and if you want a tip: in order to not water down your coffee, you can freeze coffee instead and use those cubes to cool down your brew.

Cold brew Mason jar coffee maker

Craving your coffee hit but the idea of having a hot espresso is way too much right now? We get it and this cold brew coffee maker might just become your best friend in summer.

Simply add coffee, steep overnight, and drink! Plus, clean up is simple and all the components are dishwater safe.

Moisture-wicking, quick-drying tank top

Heading to the gym or maybe planning an early morning run or walk? This moisture-wicking, quick-drying tank top is a great option. It’s anti-odor, too, and can be washed in the machine.

Handheld misting fan

While it’s not recommended to go out when the temps are at their highest, sometimes we have errands to run – say a trip to the farmer’s market. In this case, a handheld misting fan, such as this one https://amzn.to/3AjQL39 is a great idea. Bonus points for running on rechargeable batteries and for being super easy to carry!

UPF 50+ unisex sunhat

And if you do need to go out, or plan to go hiking, for example, this sun hat should become your best friend. It offers UPF 50 protection and is waterproof.

Stainless steel water bottle

Great for traveling outdoor, this stainless-steel water bottle is fully resistant to oxidation and corrosion. It also keeps the liquids perfectly cold for up to 24 hours; if you prefer to carry hot liquids, they stay like that for up to 8 h.

Fresh deodorant wipes

On the go and in need of a shower to feel fresh again? These deodorant wipes will cool you down and wipe away the odor. Whether you are out on a hike or about to meet a client at a café, these wipes will prove extremely useful.

Moisture-wicking no show socks

No one enjoys sweaty feet. Aside from the yucky feeling, wet socks can give you painful blisters and there are no fun, whether you are on a long hike or work out indoors. But that’s where these moisture-wicking socks https://amzn.to/2X6Uz9N come in. They eliminate foot odor, are soft and super comfortable.

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