UK Heat vs Holiday Heat: Family Tips for Keeping Children Safe in the Sun

When the temperatures rise, many families naturally head outside to make the most of the sunshine.

Whether you’re enjoying a warm weekend in the UK or preparing for a summer holiday abroad, hot weather can present different challenges when you’re travelling with children.

The good news is that with a little preparation, it’s easy to help little ones stay comfortable while making wonderful holiday memories.

Here’s how family life in the sunshine compares—and some simple tips to help everyone enjoy it safely.

Why Does The UK Heat Feel So Different?

It isn’t just your imagination.

The UK often experiences higher humidity during hot weather, making air feel heavier and less comfortable. Our homes are also designed to keep heat in during winter rather than letting it escape in summer, and unlike many holiday destinations, air conditioning isn’t exactly standard.

UK Heat vs Sunshine Abroad

Finding Shade

UK

• Searching for the only tree in the park.
• Taking turns holding the umbrella.
• Trying to keep little ones cool between playground visits.

Abroad

• Purpose-built poolside parasols.
• Covered children’s splash areas.
• Beach umbrellas and shaded cafés.

Family Tip:

Children, particularly babies, should be kept out of direct sunlight during the hottest part of the day wherever possible. The NHS recommends seeking shade, especially between late morning and mid-afternoon.

Keeping Cool

UK

• Windows open.
• Fans running.
• Ice lollies disappearing quickly.

Abroad

• Air-conditioned hotel rooms.
• Swimming pools.
• Regular opportunities to cool off.

Family Tip:

Offer children regular drinks throughout the day—even if they don’t ask—and encourage frequent breaks from the heat.

Playing Outside

UK

• Quick trips to the park.
• Water fights in the garden.
• Paddling pools.

Abroad

• Beach games.
• Hotel kids’ clubs.
• Splash parks.
• Pool fun.

Family Tip:

Outdoor play is one of the best parts of any family holiday. Just remember to reapply sunscreen regularly, particularly after swimming or towel drying.

Naptime

UK

• Trying to cool the bedroom.
• Blackout blinds.
• Fans.

Abroad

• Air-conditioned rooms.
• Quiet afternoon naps before evening adventures.

Family Tip:

Keeping babies and young children cool while they sleep is especially important in hot weather. Follow safer sleep guidance by avoiding overheating, dressing babies appropriately for the room temperature and ensuring their sleeping environment remains comfortable. The Lullaby Trust provides practical advice on helping babies sleep safely during hot weather.

Exploring Together

The best family holidays aren’t about doing everything—they’re about enjoying time together.

Whether that’s exploring a Greek village, walking along a Cornish beach or discovering a Spanish waterpark, taking regular breaks, carrying water and planning around the hottest part of the day can help everyone enjoy the experience.

Before You Travel

Alongside packing hats, sun cream and plenty of snacks, many families also choose to arrange travel insurance before they travel.

Depending on the policy purchased and subject to the terms, conditions, exclusions and claim acceptance criteria, travel insurance may provide cover for certain unexpected events before and during your trip.

If you’re travelling with children, it’s worth checking that everyone travelling is included on your policy and reading your policy documents carefully before you travel.