Sun and Heat Abroad
Protecting against UV and managing heat in hotter climates.
Last revised
Key takeaways
- Sunscreen: at least SPF 30 with 4-star or 5-star UVA, reapplied every 2 hours
- Peak UV: usually 11am to 3pm
- Most useful single change: Use shade and clothing first; sunscreen last.
- Commonest mistake: Midday sun exposure in hot climates.
- See a doctor if any of the signs under "When to get help" below apply to you.
Why it matters
Heatstroke is a medical emergency, and sunburn abroad is where a substantial share of lifetime UV damage is acquired.
The numbers, in one place
| Measure | Figure |
|---|---|
| Sunscreen | at least SPF 30 with 4-star or 5-star UVA, reapplied every 2 hours |
| Peak UV | usually 11am to 3pm |
| Heat exhaustion | cool the person and rehydrate; should improve within 30 minutes |
| Heatstroke | a medical emergency; body temperature above 40C with confusion |
| Higher risk | older adults, young children, some medicines |
What helps
- Use shade and clothing first; sunscreen last
- Reapply sunscreen every two hours and after swimming
- Drink more than you think you need in heat
- Check whether your medicines increase sun sensitivity or dehydration risk
What to avoid
- Midday sun exposure in hot climates
- Alcohol in extreme heat
- Leaving children or anyone else in parked vehicles
Where to go next
- Sun and Heat Abroad: What the Evidence Actually Says
- What Sun and Heat Abroad Is, and Why It Matters
- What the Guidance Really Says About Travelling with Medicines
- The Evidence on Travel Insurance and Healthcare Abroad, Without the Hype
When to get help
Call 999 for heatstroke: a temperature above 40C with confusion, seizures, loss of consciousness, hot dry skin or rapid breathing — cool the person aggressively while waiting. Seek help if heat exhaustion does not improve within thirty minutes of cooling and rehydration.
Where this comes from
How this page was put together
Every figure, recommendation and warning above is taken from the guidance named in Where this comes from. Nothing on this page is inferred, summarised or generalised beyond what those bodies publish: where they give a number, it is their number, and where they are silent, so are we. Pages are rebuilt whenever the underlying record changes. Sign-off by a named clinician, where it has happened, is shown at the top of the page along with the date.
Medical disclaimer
This article is general information, not medical advice. It cannot account for your own history, medication or circumstances. Always speak to a GP, pharmacist or another qualified health professional before making changes that affect your treatment, and never delay seeking medical advice because of something you have read here. In an emergency, call 999.