Europe Heatwave Travel Advice

Europe Heatwave Travel Health Guide 2026: How to Avoid Heatstroke, Dehydration, and Sun-Related Illness

Summer remains one of the most popular times to visit Europe. Millions of travellers go to places such as Spain, Greece, Italy, Portugal, and France each year. But alongside Mediterranean beaches, historic cities, and outdoor attractions, travellers now face another problem: extreme heat.

In recent years, Europe has had some of its hottest summers on record. According to data from the European climate monitoring programmes, heatwaves are becoming more frequent, lasting longer, and reaching higher temperatures across many parts of the continent. Popular tourist destinations that once had only short periods of intense heat are now facing long stretches of very high temperatures during the busiest travel season.

For travellers, these conditions can cause serious health risks. Spending too much time in high temperatures can increase the chance of dehydration, heat exhaustion, heatstroke, sunburn, and other heat-related illnesses. Long days of sightseeing, outdoor activities, crowded transport systems, and unfamiliar climates can increase the risk. This is especially true for older adults, pregnant women, and people with existing medical conditions.

Knowing how to stay safe during extreme heat is now an important part of travel planning. Whether you are visiting the historic streets of Rome, exploring the Greek Islands, relaxing on the Algarve coast, or enjoying a city break in Barcelona, it helps to know the signs of heat-related illness and how to prevent it. This can help you enjoy your trip safely.

This Europe heatwave travel advice guide explains why heatwaves are becoming a growing concern for visitors, how extreme heat affects the body, practical steps to stay safe while travelling, and when to seek medical attention if symptoms develop. By preparing before travelling and taking sensible precautions, travellers can reduce their risk and enjoy a safer European summer in 2026.

Why Heatwaves Are Becoming a Major Travel Health Risk in Europe

Heatwaves have become one of the biggest health challenges for travellers across Europe. What was once an occasional weather event is now becoming a common part of the European summer. From the Iberian Peninsula to the Mediterranean region, long periods of extreme heat are affecting both residents and visitors. This creates new health risks that travellers should understand before departure.

What Is Considered a Heatwave in Europe?

There is no single temperature that defines a heatwave across all European countries. Instead, national meteorological authorities usually describe a heatwave as a period of unusually high temperatures lasting several days and much hotter than the normal local seasonal averages.

For example, temperatures that may feel normal in summer in southern Spain could trigger a heatwave alert in parts of northern Europe. This is because heat-related health risks are influenced by more than just temperature. Humidity levels, overnight temperatures, air quality, and how well local people and buildings are prepared for heat also matter.

Many European health agencies also focus on "tropical nights", which are nights when temperatures stay unusually high. When the body cannot cool down during sleep, the risk of dehydration, heat stress, and other health problems increases greatly.

Why Europe Is Experiencing More Extreme Heat

According to European climate monitoring programmes, Europe is warming faster than many other regions of the world. Rising average temperatures have led to more frequent, longer-lasting, and stronger heatwaves across the continent.

Southern European destinations that attract millions of tourists each year are among the most affected areas. Places across Spain, Greece, Italy, Portugal, and southern France often have temperatures above 35°C during summer. Some inland areas can reach above 40°C during severe heatwaves.

Several factors make heatwaves stronger:

• Rising average temperatures across Europe
• Longer periods of dry weather
• Reduced soil moisture levels
• Urban heat island effects in major cities
• Increased frequency of stagnant high-pressure weather systems

These conditions do not just cause discomfort. They can also place serious stress on the human body, especially when travellers spend extended periods outdoors.

The Impact on Popular Tourist Destinations

Many of Europe's most visited cities are especially vulnerable to extreme heat. Historic city centres often have large areas of stone, concrete, and asphalt. These materials absorb heat during the day and hold onto it. Limited green spaces, narrow streets, and crowded city areas can make local temperatures even higher.

Tourists are often at higher risk because they usually spend more time walking outdoors, visiting attractions, waiting in queues, and using public transport during the hottest parts of the day.

Popular activities that may become harder during severe heatwaves include:

• City sightseeing tours
• Archaeological site visits
• Hiking excursions
• Cycling holidays
• Outdoor festivals and events
• Beach activities during peak afternoon temperatures

For many travellers, unfamiliar heat, increased physical activity, and insufficient water intake can lead to preventable heat-related illnesses.

Heatwave Risk in Popular European Destinations

Destination	Typical Peak Summer Temperatures	Months Most Affected
Seville, Spain	38°C to 42°C	June to August
Madrid, Spain	34°C to 40°C	June to August
Athens, Greece	35°C to 40°C	June to August
Rome, Italy	32°C to 38°C	July to August
Lisbon, Portugal	30°C to 37°C	July to August
Marseille, France	30°C to 36°C	July to August

Temperatures vary from year to year and can be much higher during severe heatwaves.

Why Travellers Need to Take Heatwaves Seriously

Heatwaves are not just uncomfortable. Extreme heat can quickly lead to dehydration, heat exhaustion, heatstroke, worsening of existing medical conditions, and in serious cases, life-threatening emergencies.

Visitors often underestimate the risk, especially if they come from places with cooler weather. Even healthy adults can develop heat-related illness after spending too much time in high temperatures. The risk is higher when physical activity, alcohol consumption, insufficient fluid intake, or strong sun exposure is involved.

As heatwaves become a regular part of European summers, knowing how to spot the risks and take preventive action is increasingly important for responsible travel planning. The next step is understanding exactly how extreme heat affects the body and why some travellers are more vulnerable than others.

How Extreme Heat Affects Your Body

The human body is very good at controlling its temperature in normal conditions. But when temperatures rise sharply, especially during long heatwaves, the body can struggle to cool itself. This can lead to dehydration, heat exhaustion, heatstroke, and other serious health problems.

For travellers exploring Europe during the summer months, understanding how the body reacts to extreme heat is one of the most important ways to prevent heat-related illness.

How the Body Regulates Temperature

The body works all the time to keep an internal temperature of around 37°C. When temperatures rise, the body uses several cooling mechanisms to prevent overheating.

Sweating

Sweating is the body's main cooling system. As sweat dries from the skin, it removes heat and helps lower body temperature.

However, excessive sweating also causes the body to lose water and important minerals, including sodium and potassium. If these are not replaced, dehydration can happen quickly.

Increased Blood Flow to the Skin

When the body is exposed to heat, blood vessels near the skin surface widen. This is known as vasodilation. It allows more heat to leave the body.

Although this helps cool the body, it can put extra pressure on the heart and blood system. This is especially important for older adults and people with heart conditions.

Increased Heart Rate

To help with cooling, the heart works harder to move blood around the body. During extreme heat, the heart rate may rise even while resting.

This extra work can cause fatigue and may worsen existing heart conditions.

What Happens When the Body Cannot Cool Itself?

When the body cannot cool itself enough, body temperature starts to rise.

At first, this may cause mild symptoms such as:

• Excessive sweating
• Thirst
• Tiredness
• Mild headache
• Reduced concentration

Without action, symptoms can become more serious and may lead to heat exhaustion and heatstroke.

The risk increases when:

• Temperatures remain high throughout the day
• Overnight temperatures stay elevated
• Humidity levels are high
• Fluid intake is inadequate
• Physical activity continues despite warning signs

Why Travellers Are More Vulnerable to Heat-Related Illness

Travellers often face extra challenges that increase the chance of heat stress.

Increased Physical Activity

Many people walk much more during holidays than they do at home. Sightseeing, guided tours, hiking excursions, and exploring unfamiliar cities can add up to many hours of outdoor activity.

Exposure During Peak Heat Hours

Popular attractions are often busiest around midday, which is usually the hottest part of the day. Long queues and limited shade can increase exposure to extreme temperatures.

Alcohol Consumption

Alcohol can lead to dehydration and may affect judgment. This can make it harder to notice early symptoms of heat-related illness.

Travel Fatigue

Jet lag, poor sleep, and long travel days can make it harder for the body to cope with stress, including extreme heat.

Unfamiliar Climate Conditions

Travellers from cooler places may not be used to long periods of temperatures above 35°C. This can make them more likely to become dehydrated or overheated.

Who Is Most Vulnerable During European Heatwaves?

Although anyone can be affected by extreme heat, some groups have a much higher risk of serious problems.

Older Adults

As people get older, their bodies become less able to control temperature. Older adults may also feel less thirsty and may have existing medical conditions.

Pregnant Women

Pregnancy increases the body's needs and can make it harder to control temperature. Very hot weather may increase the risk of dehydration and heat-related discomfort.

People With Chronic Medical Conditions

People with cardiovascular disease, respiratory conditions, kidney disease, diabetes, or neurological disorders may find it harder to cope with high temperatures.

People Taking Certain Medications

Some medicines can affect hydration, sweating, blood flow, or the body's response to heat.

Examples include:

• Diuretics
• Certain blood pressure medications
• Some antidepressants
• Antihistamines
• Certain medications used for heart disease

Children

Children can become dehydrated more quickly than adults and may not always notice or clearly explain their symptoms.

Outdoor Workers and Active Travellers

People who spend extended time outdoors, including hikers, cyclists, runners, and outdoor workers, face a higher risk because they are exposed to heat longer and lose more fluid.

Who Is Most Vulnerable During European Heatwaves?

Risk Group	Why Risk Is Higher	Extra Precautions
Older adults	Reduced ability to regulate temperature	Increase fluid intake, avoid midday heat
Pregnant women	Increased metabolic demands and heat sensitivity	Rest frequently, stay hydrated
People with heart disease	Additional strain on the cardiovascular system	Avoid strenuous activity during peak heat
People with diabetes	Higher risk of dehydration and medication-related complications	Monitor hydration carefully
Children	Faster fluid loss and limited awareness of symptoms	Regular hydration and shade breaks
Outdoor workers	Extended exposure to high temperatures	Frequent cooling breaks and hydration
Active travellers	Increased physical exertion in hot conditions	Schedule activities during cooler hours

Why Early Recognition Matters

Heat-related illnesses usually show warning signs before they become serious. In most cases, the body gives early signs that it is struggling with heat exposure.

Noticing symptoms early and acting quickly can often stop a small problem from becoming a medical emergency. However, many travellers ignore early warning signs and think they are just tired or uncomfortable. This can allow the condition to get worse.

Understanding how to spot the symptoms of heat exhaustion, heatstroke, heat cramps, and other heat-related illnesses is important for anyone travelling in Europe during the summer months.

Recognising the Early Signs of Heat-Related Illness

Heat-related illnesses can happen quickly, especially during extreme heat. Many cases start with mild symptoms, but if the warning signs are ignored, they can become a serious medical emergency.

For travellers, spotting symptoms early is very important. Long days outdoors, more walking, and unfamiliar places can make it easy to miss the signs until they become severe. Knowing the difference between heat exhaustion, heatstroke, heat cramps, and heat rash can help you act before your health is at risk.

Heat Exhaustion Symptoms

Heat exhaustion happens when the body loses too much water and salt through sweating. This makes it harder for the body to control its temperature.

It is one of the most common heat-related illnesses affecting travellers during European heatwaves.

Common symptoms include:

• Heavy sweating
• Excessive thirst
• Dizziness or light-headedness
• Weakness or fatigue
• Headache
• Nausea
• Muscle cramps
• Cool, pale, or clammy skin
• Rapid heartbeat
• Difficulty concentrating

Symptoms may develop slowly over several hours or appear suddenly after prolonged exposure to heat.

If noticed early, heat exhaustion can often be managed by moving to a cooler place, resting, and drinking fluids.

Heatstroke Symptoms

Heatstroke is the most serious type of heat-related illness and needs emergency medical help straight away.

It happens when the body can no longer control its temperature, causing body temperature to rise to dangerous levels.

Heatstroke can develop from untreated heat exhaustion, but it can also happen suddenly during intense heat exposure.

Warning signs include:

• Very high body temperature
• Confusion or disorientation
• Slurred speech
• Unusual behaviour
• Severe headache
• Rapid pulse
• Hot skin
• Seizures
• Collapse
• Loss of consciousness

Heatstroke can damage important organs, including the brain, heart, kidneys, and liver. Without urgent treatment, it can become life-threatening.

Heat Cramps

Heat cramps are painful muscle spasms that happen during or after physical activity in hot conditions.

They are usually caused by fluid and electrolyte loss from heavy sweating.

Commonly affected areas include:

• Calves
• Thighs
• Feet
• Arms
• Abdomen

Although heat cramps are usually less serious than heat exhaustion or heatstroke, they may be a sign that the body is struggling with heat and dehydration.

Travellers who get heat cramps should stop physical activity, rest in a cool place, and replace fluids and electrolytes.

Heat Rash

Heat rash happens when sweat gets trapped under the skin, causing irritation and inflammation.

It is especially common during hot and humid weather.

Symptoms may include:

• Small red bumps
• Itching
• Prickling sensation
• Mild swelling
• Skin irritation in areas where sweat accumulates

Common locations include:

• Neck
• Chest
• Back
• Underarms
• Groin area

Heat rash is usually not dangerous, but it can become uncomfortable if you stay in the heat.

Sunburn and Heat Exposure

Although sunburn is not usually classified as a heat-related illness, it often occurs alongside heat exposure. It can also worsen dehydration and discomfort.

Symptoms may include:

• Red or painful skin
• Swelling
• Warm skin
• Blistering in severe cases

Repeated sunburn also increases the long-term risk of skin damage and skin cancer.

Travellers should use sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and seek shade whenever possible.

Heat Exhaustion vs Heatstroke

Symptom	Heat Exhaustion	Heatstroke
Sweating	Heavy sweating usually present	Skin may be hot, and sweating may decrease
Body temperature	Elevated but generally below 40°C	Often above 40°C
Skin appearance	Pale, cool, clammy	Hot, flushed
Headache	Common	Severe
Dizziness	Common	Severe or accompanied by confusion
Nausea	Common	Possible
Confusion	Uncommon	Common
Loss of consciousness	Rare	Possible
Seizures	Rare	Possible
Medical emergency	Usually not if treated promptly	Yes, immediate emergency care is required

When to Seek Medical Attention

Many mild cases of heat exhaustion improve with quick self-care. However, medical advice may be needed if symptoms:

• Persist despite rest and hydration
• Become progressively worse
• Include repeated vomiting
• Prevent adequate fluid intake
• Involve significant dizziness or weakness
• Occur in someone with a chronic medical condition

Immediate emergency assistance should be sought if any signs of heatstroke develop.

Why Acting Quickly Matters

Heat-related illnesses can move from mild to serious. What starts as mild dehydration can become heat exhaustion and, in some cases, heatstroke.

Travellers often continue sightseeing or outdoor activities even when they feel unwell. They may think the symptoms will go away on their own. However, staying in the heat can quickly make things worse.

Knowing the warning signs and acting early can greatly lower the risk of serious problems. It can also help make travel safer during Europe's increasingly hot summers.

The good news is that most heat-related illnesses can be prevented. Planning carefully before departure can greatly lower your risk and help you enjoy your trip safely, even during extreme heat.

Europe Heatwave Travel Advice Before You Leave

Preparing for a European summer holiday now means more than booking flights and accommodation. As heatwaves become more common in many popular destinations, taking a few simple steps before departure can lower the risk of heat-related illness during your trip.

Whether you are travelling to Spain, Greece, Italy, Portugal, France, or another European destination, planning ahead can help you stay comfortable, avoid health problems, and make better choices if temperatures rise suddenly.

Check Heat Alerts for Your Destination

One of the most important steps before travelling is checking weather forecasts and heat warnings for your destination.

Many European countries have national heat-health warning systems. These provide alerts when temperatures may reach levels that pose health risks.

Travellers should start checking forecasts several days before departure and keep checking them during the trip.

Pay particular attention to:

• Maximum daytime temperatures
• Overnight temperatures
• Heatwave alerts
• Air quality warnings
• Wildfire-related advisories
• Local public health guidance

Knowing what the weather is expected to be can help you change sightseeing plans, outdoor activities, and travel times if needed.

Consider the Timing of Your Activities

Many visitors plan busy trips without considering the effects of extreme heat.

If forecasts show very high temperatures, it may be sensible to:

• Schedule outdoor attractions early in the morning
• Reserve indoor activities during the afternoon
• Avoid strenuous physical activity during peak heat
• Allow additional rest periods
• Build flexibility into your itinerary

Travellers who adjust their plans to local conditions can often enjoy their destination more safely and comfortably.

Book Accommodation That Helps You Stay Cool

Accommodation can play a big role in protecting travellers during a heatwave.

When choosing hotels, apartments, or holiday rentals, check whether the property has features that help reduce heat exposure.

Important features include:

• Air conditioning
• Reliable ventilation
• Blackout curtains or shutters
• Access to drinking water
• Shaded outdoor areas
• Swimming pool access
• Good public transport connections

In some historic European city centres, older buildings may not have air conditioning. Checking this before booking can help prevent discomfort during extreme heat.

Review Your Medical Needs Before Travelling

People with existing health conditions should think about speaking to a healthcare professional before departure, especially if they:

• Have heart disease
• Have diabetes
• Have respiratory conditions
• Take multiple prescription medications
• Have previously experienced heat-related illness

Some medicines can affect how the body controls temperature or stays hydrated. Understanding these risks before travelling can help prevent problems.

It is also sensible to carry enough of any regular medicines, especially during busy travel periods when access to pharmacies may be limited.

Ensure Appropriate Travel Insurance

Medical emergencies can happen suddenly, especially during extreme weather.

Before departure, travellers should check that their travel insurance gives enough medical cover. They should also know how to access healthcare services at their destination.

Important details to check include:

• Emergency medical treatment cover
• Access to outpatient care
• Coverage for heat-related illnesses
• Emergency transportation provisions
• Assistance helpline details

Keeping policy information easily accessible during the trip can save valuable time if medical help is needed.

Prepare for Safe Hydration

Dehydration is one of the most common health problems during heatwaves.

Travellers should plan for hydration before they arrive, instead of waiting until symptoms start.

Practical preparation includes:

• Carrying a reusable water bottle
• Packing electrolyte replacement sachets
• Identifying local sources of safe drinking water
• Planning hydration breaks throughout the day
• Limiting alcohol consumption during periods of extreme heat

Good hydration habits are especially important for active travellers and people spending long periods outdoors.

Choose Clothing Designed for Hot Weather

The right clothing can make you more comfortable and reduce heat stress.

Lightweight, loose-fitting clothes help the body cool down better than heavy or tight clothing.

Recommended options include:

• Lightweight cotton clothing
• Breathable fabrics
• Loose-fitting shirts
• Light-coloured garments
• Wide-brimmed hats
• UV-protective sunglasses

Footwear should also be comfortable for walking in hot weather and give enough support.

Pack Sun Protection Essentials

Heatwaves often come with high levels of ultraviolet (UV) radiation. This increases the risk of sunburn and skin damage.

Travellers should pack:

• Broad-spectrum sunscreen
• Lip balm with sun protection
• Sunglasses with UV protection
• Wide-brimmed hat
• Lightweight long-sleeved clothing
• Portable shade accessories were appropriate

Applying sunscreen regularly should become part of your daily routine, especially during sightseeing and outdoor activities.

Essential Heatwave Travel Packing Checklist

Item	Why You Need It
Reusable water bottle	Encourages regular hydration throughout the day
Electrolyte sachets	Helps replace minerals lost through sweating
Broad-spectrum sunscreen	Protects against UV-related skin damage
Wide-brimmed hat	Reduces direct sun exposure to the head and face
UV-protective sunglasses	Protects eyes from intense sunlight
Lightweight clothing	Improves comfort and supports natural cooling
Cooling towel	Provides temporary relief during extreme heat
Portable fan	Helps improve airflow and comfort
Prescription medications	Ensures uninterrupted treatment during travel
Travel insurance details	Facilitates faster access to healthcare if required
Small umbrella or parasol	Provides portable shade during sightseeing
Refillable electrolyte drink bottle	Supports hydration during long outdoor activities

Build a Heatwave Plan Before Departure

One of the easiest yet most useful steps is to make a basic heatwave plan before travelling.

Ask yourself:

• Where can I cool down if temperatures become extreme?
• What symptoms should I watch for?
• How will I stay hydrated throughout the day?
• What healthcare options are available at my destination?
• What activities can I move indoors if necessary?

Having answers to these questions before departure can reduce stress and help you make better choices if a heatwave happens during your trip.

Preparation is often the difference between an enjoyable holiday and a preventable health problem. Once you arrive at your destination, the next step is to use those plans and build daily habits that help protect you from extreme heat.

Staying Safe During a Heatwave While Travelling

Even good planning before travel cannot remove all the risks of extreme heat. Once you arrive, your daily choices can make a big difference. Drinking enough water, resting often, avoiding strong sun, and planning activities carefully can help lower your risk of dehydration, heat exhaustion, and other heat-related illnesses.

Plan Outdoor Activities Around Cooler Hours

One of the best ways to stay safe is to avoid being outdoors during the hottest part of the day.

In many European destinations, temperatures are lowest in the early morning and highest in the afternoon.

Whenever possible:

• Start sightseeing early in the morning
• Schedule walking tours before midday
• Visit indoor attractions during the afternoon
• Save outdoor dining and evening activities for later in the day
• Avoid hard exercise during peak heat hours

This can help reduce tiredness, dehydration, and overheating.

Stay Hydrated Throughout the Day

Drinking enough water is one of the most important ways to prevent heat-related illness.

Many travellers lose more fluid than they realise through sweating. By the time you feel thirsty, mild dehydration may already have started.

To stay hydrated:

• Drink water regularly throughout the day
• Carry a refillable water bottle
• Drink more during physical activity
• Take regular hydration breaks
• Check urine colour as a simple guide

Pale yellow urine usually means you are drinking enough. Darker urine may mean you need more fluids.

Replace Electrolytes When Necessary

When you sweat a lot, your body loses water and important minerals called electrolytes.

Electrolytes help with:

• Muscle function
• Fluid balance
• Nerve signalling
• Heart rhythm

If you are hiking, cycling, running, or walking for a long time in intense heat, electrolyte drinks or sachets may help.

For most travellers doing light or moderate activity, water and normal meals are usually enough.

Limit Alcohol Consumption During Extreme Heat

Alcohol can make dehydration worse and may make it harder for the body to control temperature.

During a heatwave, too much alcohol can increase the risk of:

• Dehydration
• Dizziness
• Fatigue
• Poor judgement
• Heat exhaustion

If you drink alcohol, drink water as well and avoid drinking during the hottest part of the day.

Seek Shade Whenever Possible

Staying out of direct sunlight can help lower heat stress.

When walking around cities or visiting outdoor attractions:

• Use shaded routes when you can
• Rest under trees or covered areas
• Take breaks away from direct sunlight
• Carry a small umbrella or parasol if helpful

Even short breaks in the shade can help your body cool down.

Use Air-Conditioned Spaces Strategically

Use cooler indoor places during the hottest hours of the day.

Good options include:

• Museums
• Art galleries
• Shopping centres
• Libraries
• Restaurants
• Public transport systems
• Hotels and accommodation facilities

Planning indoor activities in the afternoon can reduce heat exposure without ruining your trip.

Wear Appropriate Clothing

The right clothing can help your body stay cooler.

Choose clothing that is:

• Lightweight
• Loose fitting
• Breathable
• Light coloured

Wide-brimmed hats and UV-protective sunglasses can also help protect you from the sun.

Apply Sunscreen Correctly

Sunburn can worsen dehydration and heat stress.

To protect your skin:

• Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen before going outdoors
• Reapply it as directed on the product
• Cover areas such as the ears, neck, and feet
• Wear protective clothing when possible

Sunscreen should be used with shade, hats, and suitable clothing.

Pay Attention to Your Body

Do not ignore early warning signs of heat-related illness.

Symptoms may include:

• Headache
• Dizziness
• Fatigue
• Excessive thirst
• Muscle cramps
• Nausea

If symptoms develop:

• Move to a cooler place
• Rest straight away
• Drink fluids
• Avoid more physical activity

Acting early can prevent symptoms from worsening.

Best Times for Outdoor Activities During Heatwaves

Activity	Recommended Time
City sightseeing	Before 11:00 am or after 6:00 pm
Walking tours	Early morning
Hiking	Sunrise to mid-morning
Cycling	Early morning or evening
Beach visits	Before midday or late afternoon
Outdoor dining	Evening
Photography excursions	Early morning or sunset
Archaeological site visits	Early morning
Running or exercise	Sunrise or late evening

Adjust Expectations During Extreme Heat

During a heatwave, you may need to change your travel plans.

It may be necessary to:

• Shorten outdoor excursions
• Take more rest breaks
• Spend more time indoors
• Change activity plans
• Put health before sightseeing goals

Changing plans during extreme heat is sensible. By listening to your body and adjusting your routine, you can enjoy your trip more safely.

Managing Existing Health Conditions During a European Heatwave

Heatwaves can be more dangerous for travellers with existing medical conditions. Extreme heat puts extra pressure on the heart, lungs, kidneys, and the body's fluid balance.

People with heart disease, diabetes, asthma, high blood pressure, kidney disease, or breathing problems should take extra care. They should drink enough fluids, avoid strenuous activity during the hottest part of the day, keep medication out of direct sunlight, and monitor symptoms closely.

Some medicines can affect hydration, sweating, or the body's ability to handle heat. These include diuretics, some blood pressure medicines, antihistamines, antidepressants, and antipsychotic medicines. Travellers who are unsure should speak with a healthcare professional before travelling.

Worsening breathlessness, chest pain, confusion, fainting, repeated vomiting, or signs of severe dehydration should be treated as urgent warning signs.

Condition	Why Heat Is Problematic	Prevention Tips
Heart disease	Heat increases strain on the cardiovascular system	Avoid strenuous activity and rest in cool places
Diabetes	Dehydration can affect blood glucose control	Monitor levels and drink fluids regularly
Asthma or respiratory illness	Heat, pollution, or wildfire smoke may worsen symptoms	Carry inhalers and check local air quality
High blood pressure	Fluid loss may affect blood pressure regulation	Stay hydrated and avoid sudden overexertion
Kidney disease	Dehydration can place extra strain on kidney function	Follow individual fluid advice carefully
Medication use	Some medicines affect sweating, hydration, or heat tolerance	Store medicines safely and seek advice before travel

Conclusion

Heatwaves are becoming an important consideration when travelling across Europe in summer. In places such as Spain, Greece, Italy, Portugal, and France, extreme heat can increase the risk of dehydration, heat exhaustion, heatstroke, and other heat-related illnesses.

The good news is that most heat-related health problems can be prevented. Planning ahead, drinking enough water, using sun protection, and spotting early warning signs can help you stay safe.

By understanding the risks and taking simple precautions, travellers can enjoy Europe's popular destinations more safely, even during very hot weather.

If you feel unwell during or after travelling, Mobi Doctor can help you speak to a doctor through an online consultation. A doctor can assess your symptoms, offer medical advice, and guide you on the next steps. Mobi Doctor is available from 7 am to 11 pm.