Holidaying in a Heatwave

Summer days are becoming hotter, heatwaves are lasting longer, and the temperature elsewhere in Europe is becoming harder to ignore.

In this weather, a long afternoon by the pool can quickly cause dehydration, heat-related illnesses, and put strain on existing medical conditions.

Western Europe recorded its hottest June on record last month, and the World Health Organisation has issued warnings of more dangerous heat spells. Parts of Portugal and southern Spain have already faced forecasts of up to 43°C this July.

What do these high temperatures mean for UK travellers? Slowing the pace, checking local warnings, and knowing what to do if someone becomes poorly.

---

Why does the heat hit harder on holiday?

When you’re abroad, chances are you’ve deliberately signed up for somewhere hot. You’ve geared yourself up for long days in the sun and a few beers on the balcony, so it’s easy for the risks to fall by the wayside.

While no single activity feels particularly strenuous - sightseeing, meals outside, beach days - the heat exposure adds up.

Alcohol, minimal shade, and unfamiliar surroundings can make it harder to notice that you’re getting dehydrated or overheated.

1. Go on longer walks in the morning or evening, when it’s cooler.
2. On busier days, rest regularly in the shade (it’s not an endurance challenge!)
3. Drink water often, rather than waiting until you feel thirsty.
4. Limit your alcohol intake during the hottest part of the day.

And the usual stuff: use suncream and top it up regularly, wear loose and lightweight clothing, and never feel guilty for popping into a shop because it has air con.

Here’s something key - remember that swimming or water sports are still a form of exercise. Being surrounded by water might be cooling, but it can be physically demanding. Take regular breaks and stay hydrated.

When it comes to the kids, look out for dehydration cues such as a dry mouth, unusual sleepiness, or less interest in playing. Keep an eye out for fewer toilet trips, irritability, fast breathing, or no tears when crying. Plan breaks in the shade, top up their suncream, offer drinks regularly and never cover a pushchair with a blanket.

---

What are the signs of a heat-related illness, and when is it an emergency?

Early signs of dehydration and heat exhaustion can look like:

1. Thirst, a dry mouth, or dark urine
2. Fewer toilet trips
3. Headache, dizziness or tiredness
4. Heavy sweating or pale, clammy skin
5. Nausea, muscle cramps, or difficulty concentrating
6. A fast heartbeat, rapid breathing, or a raised temperature

Move the person somewhere cool, remove unnecessary clothing, and give them cool water or a rehydration drink. Cool their skin and stay with them while they recover (they should start to feel better in about half an hour).

Call the local emergency services immediately if the person becomes confused, uncoordinated, very hot, has a seizure, loses consciousness, or doesn’t improve after 30 minutes of cooling. In EU countries, call 112.

Don’t wait for your insurer before calling an ambulance. Once help is on the way, contact the  Emergency Medical Assistance Team and provide your policy details, location, and the name of the hospital or medical facility.

Where possible, speak to the insurer before arranging major private treatment, a hospital transfer or transport back to the UK, but never delay urgent care. 

Keep all medical reports, prescriptions, and receipts.

---

Does travel insurance cover heat-related illness?

Emergency Medical Expenses

Travel insurance can cover emergency medical treatment if you unexpectedly become ill with heat exhaustion, heatstroke, or another heat-related condition abroad.

Depending on the policy and circumstances, this can include hospital treatment, ambulance costs, medically necessary transport and repatriation to the UK. Remember:

1. Cover is always subject to policy terms and exclusions
2. Your medical declaration must be honest and accurate before travel
3. You must contact the Emergency Medical Assistance Team as soon as reasonably possible

Cancellation or Cutting Your Trip Short

You cannot normally claim for your disinclination to travel - in other words, simply deciding not to go or to come home because the temperatures feel too high.

If an airline cancels a flight, accommodation becomes unusable, or local authorities order an evacuation, contact the relevant travel provider and your insurer before making alternative arrangements (where possible).

---

Before You Go: Top Tips

Early signs of dehydration and heat exhaustion can look like:

1. Check your destination’s weather warnings and FCDO travel advice
2. Keep an eye on local heat and wildfire alerts
3. Save your insurer’s emergency medical assistance number 
4. Take enough medication and check how it should be stored in hot weather 
5. Bring a valid GHIC or EHIC alongside suitable travel insurance
6. Make sure any medical conditions or recent health changes have been declared. 

Extreme heat doesn’t have to ruin your holiday. Take it seriously, slow down when you need to, and know where to turn if someone becomes unwell.

BY HOLLY GARWOOD, 16TH JULY 2026

Sources:
Copernicus Climate Change Service | Record Heatwave Brings Hottest June for Western Europe During Second-Warmest June Globally
World Health Organisation Europe | Extreme Heat: More Deadly Weeks May Still Lie Ahead for the European Region
NHS | Heat exhaustion and heatstroke 
NHS | Dehydration  
NHS | Applying for healthcare cover abroad (GHIC and EHIC)
GOV.UK | Medical emergencies, treatment and hospitalisation abroad