While summer may seem like peak celebrating season, it’s also unquestionably the hottest time of year. After all, even brief moments in its swelting conditions can leave you sweating and impact your health in more significant ways.

Thankfully, you can still enjoy the great outdoors with your loved ones without suffering the consequences. Just take these five steps to fight off climate woes so everyone can stay healthy and happy.

Prioritize hydration

Your body can lose water extremely quickly in hot weather, especially when exposed to full sun. So it’s important to provide hydration for any time spent outdoors in summer—even a brief time in your own backyard. Pack reusable water bottles with an insulated lining, which will help keep your H2O cool and delay ice melting. Alternatively, pack water bottles in ice chests, carry a portable dispenser for ample refills, or even hike with water by wearing a hydration backpack, which contains a built-in compartment you can refill before you hit the trail. You can never pack too much; it’s better to overprepare than underprepare when dehydration poses a major health risk.

Seek out the water

In addition to hydrating your insides, rely on water to help keep your skin cool too. Whether you’re organizing an outdoor party or an excursion in the wilderness, opt for water-based locales, such as swimming pools, rivers, lakes, or the beach. Water is a very powerful thermal conductor, meaning it can quickly absorb heat from your skin and hair and help you cool down—hence the body’s sweating response to hot weather.

Provide shade

Shade can be more than 10 degrees cooler than full sun, so plan to settle in shady areas for prolonged enjoyment and health outdoors. Carry sun-blocking products on the go, such as umbrellas or canopy tents, many of which are available in small, travel-friendly packs that can fit easily into your vehicle or on your back. Seeking shade under a tree or porch for eating, resting between activity sessions, or lounging can help keep everyone cool outdoors. And avoid settling on heat-trapping surfaces like concrete or sand. Areas with grass or stone will hold onto far less heat.

Mind your apparel

As you pick out your summer outfits for fun days in the sun, don’t just consider style; opt for heat-resistant clothing so you can feel as great as you look. Wear lighter colors, loose-fitting apparel, and minimal layers, being sure to apply sunscreen on any exposed skin. Synthetic fabrics like polyester can trap heat, so swap to lighter-feeling cotton and linen, which are far more breathable. And don’t forget eyewear to protect your sight against harmful UV sunlight.

Carry a fan

These devices improve airflow for instant bursts of relieving breezes, and handheld versions can help you cool off no matter where summer takes you. Your options are plentiful, including classic paper fans, paddle hand fans, and compact mister fans. Consider packing extras for your fellow explorers as you head off on a hike or rest after playing sports in the sun. Better yet, help keep your whole party cool by setting up larger cordless fans featuring chargeable or battery-operated technology.

While summer may call for you to spend plenty of time outdoors, be sure to spend ample time planning to keep everyone healthy, comfortable, and relaxed during your daytime excursions. Consider any of these solutions, and you can ride the wave of summer heat with less sweat off your back.