Stay Cool: 5 Fun Ways to Be More Comfortable This Summer

For many people, the summer can be one of the most difficult times of year. Every time you step outside you're worried about sunburn, sweat, and vehicles that turn into ovens. However, there are some fun ways to stay comfortable.

Manage the AC

The AC on hot days can drive up your electric bills. It can even make the heat feel worse when you do go outside. Try to keep your AC at about 78 degrees, and don't wait until the heat of midday to turn it on. Cool down further by wearing shorts or swimsuits indoors. Keep an icy beverage, chilled snacks like fruit, and a portable fan handy.

Plan Activities

Plan your outdoor activities to avoid the hottest part of the day. If you jog, golf, workout, or need to do some shopping or yardwork, try to get it done in the morning. If you do go outside during the middle of the day, wear sunscreen and try to limit your physical activity. Plan meals that are cool and fun rather than hot and formal, such as salad bars or subs. Schedule your social activity for the evening when it's cooling off again.

Keep Things Cold

Staying hydrated is important, so always keep plenty of cold drinking water in the fridge. You can also refrigerate a spray bottle of water for a refreshing spritz now and then. Keep lotions and wet wipes in cold storage. Take a quick shower as cold as you can stand it. If you do go outside, try taking along a frozen bottle of water as an ice pack. Soak a headband in cool water to help fight the heat.

Protect Your Home

Blocking out the sun will help keep your home and family cooler. Uncovered windows admit a lot of heat. If you don't have shutters, think about visiting a company like Shutterflex and having them installed to close off your windows and deflect sunlight during the day. Gable canopies over the windows and doors will serve the same purpose without obstructing the view. At night, turn off the AC, open screened windows, and turn on some fans to get the cool night air circulating through the house.

Water fun

If you don't have a swimming pool, consider reclining in the shade in a plastic kiddie pool full of cool water. Break out the garden hose or pass out some squirt guns to have some refreshing fun with the kids. The summer is also the best time to make certain chores more pleasant, like pressure-washing or bathing the dog.

Your AC is really the best way to get through the summer, but it doesn't mean you have to feel trapped indoors. The best way to get through the summer are sensible but inventive ways to keep things cool.