Seasons & weather
How to prepare for seasonal sun exposure during high-latitude travel with sunscreen, hats, and UV-protective clothing.
Travelers venturing toward high-latitude regions encounter intense sun at varying altitudes and reflective surfaces. Smart preparation combines knowledge, protective gear, and adaptable routines to minimize risks and maximize comfort while exploring varied daylight and weather patterns.
July 24, 2025 - 3 min Read
When planning a northern or southern expedition, the sun’s strength can surprise you even on cool days. In high-latitude zones, reflective snow, water, and light-colored terrain amplify UV exposure, demanding a proactive approach. Start with a broad-spectrum sunscreen that protects against UVA and UVB rays, and apply a generous layer before stepping outside. Reapply every two hours, or more often if you’re sweating, swimming, or engaging in vigorous activity. Consider lip balm with SPF to shield delicate mouth areas. Pack a lightweight, breathable sun shirt for days when you want extra coverage without sacrificing mobility. Finally, remember sunglasses that block 99–100% of UV rays to protect your eyes.
Clothing choices can dramatically influence how you experience daylight in high-latitude environments. Layering remains essential, but you should also seek fabrics that are fast-drying and offer UPF protection. A wide-brim hat with a neck drape helps guard the ears, scalp, and neck from intermittent sun exposure. For sensitive skin, choose long sleeves in breathable materials that wick moisture. A shell jacket can shield against wind while letting you stay active outdoors. Don’t forget to treat jackets and hats with UV-protective additives if their fabric lacks built-in UPF properties. Practical accessories, like a neck gaiter or scarf, can reduce weather-driven sunburn in unexpected gusts.
Practical gear and routines keep skin protected across changing conditions.
In regions where daylight hours swing from long summer twilights to short winters, predictable routines matter more than dramatic last-minute purchases. Start each day with a sunscreen reapplication plan that suits your itinerary—mountain trails, coastal walks, or urban sightseeing. Keep a compact bottle accessible in your pack, and place a second application near the door so you won’t forget. If you’re participating in outdoor activities around dawn or dusk, switch to a higher SPF formula and ensure your lips receive sun protection too. Hydration supports skin resilience, so pair your sunscreen with plenty of water. A reflective sunscreen cap can shield your scalp during midday peak hours.
Sun exposure isn’t only about heat; it’s also about time. The sun’s angle shifts with latitude and season, altering UV intensity even on clear days. Plan your days to lean into shade during peak hours while building in scenic pauses before and after solar noon. When you’re traveling with family or groups, establish a simple sunscreen check-in so everyone re-applies consistently. Consider a UV-measured alarm on your phone that reminds you to reapply every two hours, especially if you’ve been on or near water. If you’re wearing contact lenses, protect your eyes withwraparound sunglasses that reduce glare and minimize the risk of dryness and irritation.
Selecting reliable sun protection requires thoughtful choices and steady habits.
UV-protective clothing is a reliable partner for extended outdoor time. Garments with UPF ratings signify fabric effectiveness against harmful rays, reducing the burden on you to constantly reapply sunscreen. Even in cooler climates, sun exposure can be substantial, so prioritize pieces that cover arms and legs without sacrificing mobility. When you’re packing, include a lightweight, breathable sun shirt or a sun hoodie for flexible layering. If you anticipate snow, snow cover increases UV reflectivity; thus, choose protective gear with higher UPF values and consider coverage around the neck. Treat fabrics with UV-blocking sprays if they lack built-in protection, following manufacturer instructions carefully.
Sunscreen remains a cornerstone of sun safety in high-latitude travel. Choose products labeled broad-spectrum with a minimum SPF of 30, and obviate fragrances if you have sensitive skin. Apply to all exposed skin, including ears, the back of the neck, and the tops of the feet—areas often overlooked. Reapply after sweating, swimming, or towel drying, regardless of the SPF’s stated longevity. For children or travelers with delicate skin, opt for mineral-based sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. Consider carrying a small mirror to ensure hard-to-see areas receive proper coverage. In addition to lotions, sunscreen sticks offer a convenient reapplication option on the go.
Eye protection and protective garments form part of a comprehensive sun strategy.
Hats can be more than a fashion statement; they’re a practical shield against sunburn and glare. A wide-brim design protects the face, ears, and neck, while a collapsible crown makes packing easier. For high-latitude trips with strong winds, a hat with secure straps prevents loss on gusty days. If you wear a helmet for cycling or climbing, look for a compatible sun hat or a cap with a built-in headcover to maintain protection without removing gear. For high-altitude itineraries, consider hats with moisture-wicking internal bands to keep sweat from dripping into your eyes. The right headgear complements sunscreen, sunglasses, and protective clothing to form a seamless defense.
Sunglasses are essential in environments where snow, water, and glass surfaces intensify glare. Seek lenses that offer 100 percent UV-A and UV-B filtration and block blue light to reduce fatigue. A comfortable fit around the nose and temples prevents shifting that could expose skin to the sun. Polarized lenses help with glare, but ensure they don’t distort color necessary for navigation or wildlife spotting. Carry an extra pair in case one becomes scratched or lost. When you’re in snowy terrain, polarized lenses reduce reflections from the snow’s surface, making it easier to gauge terrain and maintain balance on uneven paths. Keep a soft cloth handy for quick cleaning without scratching the lenses.
Thoughtful preparation supports comfort, safety, and enjoyment.
UV-protective clothing for the legs is often overlooked, especially during longer hikes or city strolls. Long pants in fabrics with UPF ratings shield skin from direct and reflected rays while preserving airflow. If you prefer shorts in hot weather, stretchable leggings or leg gaiters can bridge the gap, providing coverage when you pass through sunlit meadows or urban sun corridors. Choose colors that reflect heat rather than absorb it; lighter tones stay cooler while still offering UV shielding. When layering, ensure that your base layers wick moisture and don’t trap heat. The goal is breathable coverage that lasts from early morning starts to late-afternoon explorations.
A thoughtful packing plan pays dividends on challenging itineraries. Create a compact, accessible sun kit inside your carry-on or daypack that includes sunscreen, lip balm, a hat, sunglasses, and a light shell with UPF protection. Keep a spare sunscreen for group members who might forget theirs and designate a buddy to remind the group to reapply every two hours. If you’re traveling between climates, consider separate sun protection setups tailored to each environment. For winter coastal journeys, you’ll need windproof layers and more robust SPF choices, while interior towns may require lighter protection. Plan ahead so you aren’t scrambling at the last minute.
Balancing sun safety with environmental awareness is part of responsible travel. Respect local guidelines about sun exposure, especially near protected wildlife habitats where reflective surfaces or heat can alter behavior. Be mindful of the weather forecast; cool mornings can give way to intense sun by midday, so adjust your protection accordingly. If you’ll be engaging in water activities, choose reef-safe sunscreen formulas to protect ecosystems while preserving your skin. On multi-day trips, rotate protection strategies and avoid wearing heavy sunscreen when you’re packing light. After activities, clean and dry protective gear to maintain effectiveness for future use.
Finally, cultivate a flexible mindset that embraces seasonal variation. High-latitude destinations enforce a rhythm where sun exposure shifts with the wind, cloud cover, and terrain. By combining sunscreen, UPF-protective clothing, hats, and sunglasses, you can preserve skin integrity without sacrificing your agenda. Keep backup gear in reserve—an extra bottle of sunscreen, a spare hat, and a compact second layer—to adapt to abrupt weather changes. With thoughtful preparation, you’ll glide through sunlit landscapes with confidence, savoring every vista while minimizing sun-related risks across your journey.
