How to Keep Babies Cool & Protected on Outdoor Adventures
There’s nothing better than getting outside and making memories with your little one—whether it’s a beach day, a family fishing trip, or camping adventure. But when you live somewhere with intense sun and high temperatures (hello, Far North Queensland!), keeping your baby cool and protected is a top priority.
The good news? You don’t have to stay indoors! With the right strategies, your baby can stay safe, comfortable and happy on all your family outdoor adventures. Here’s how.
1. Dress Smart: Lightweight, Full-Coverage Clothing
Many parents assume that less clothing = better cooling, but that’s not always true. In fact, long-sleeved, full-length outfits made from breathable fabrics can actually keep babies cooler by protecting their skin from the harsh sun while allowing air to circulate.
Look for:
✅ Lightweight, breathable fabrics that don’t trap heat
✅ Full-length coverage to protect delicate skin
✅ A matching sun hat for extra protection
2. Prioritise Shade (But Don’t Rely on It Alone!)
Wherever possible, try to keep your baby in the shade. But remember—shade doesn’t block 100% of UV rays, especially when reflecting off water, sand or concrete.
Best shade solutions:
🌿 Pop-up sun shelters for the beach or park
🛶 Boat canopies for fishing trips
🛒 Clip-on pram covers with breathable mesh panels
Even in the shade, lightweight sun-protective clothing adds an extra layer of defence.
3. Hydration, Hydration, Hydration
Babies can’t regulate their body temperature as well as adults, making them more prone to dehydration. Even if they’re not sweating, they’re still losing fluids in the heat.
💧 Breastfed babies may need extra feeds on hot days
🍼 Formula-fed babies can have cooled, boiled water (check with your GP)
🍉 Older babies can have water-rich snacks like watermelon and cucumber
Signs of dehydration to watch for: fewer wet nappies, fussiness or flushed skin.
4. Cool Snacks for Hot Days
Food can help keep little ones cool and hydrated too! Try:
🍧 Frozen water ice blocks—plain or with a splash of fruit juice
🥒 Frozen cucumber or watermelon sticks for teething relief
🍓 Blended fruit & veggie cubes—freeze pureed fruit or veggies into small cubes for an icy treat
🥭 DIY frozen yogurt bites—mix yogurt with mashed fruit and freeze
These little snacks are perfect for keeping your baby refreshed while out and about!
5. Keep Air Flowing
Stagnant air can make heat feel even worse. Keep your baby cool with:
🌬 A battery-operated fan for boats, prams and car seats
🚗 Sunshades in the car or umbrellas on the beach
🛏 A damp muslin cloth for gentle cooling on the skin
If you’re out on the water, the breeze can be deceptive—you might feel cooler, but the sun is still strong!
6. Time It Right: Avoid Peak Heat Hours
Plan your outings early in the morning or late in the afternoon when the sun isn’t as harsh.
🌅 Best times: Before 10 AM or after 3 PM
🔥 Avoid: 11 AM - 2 PM when UV levels are highest
Even when the temperature drops, UV rays can still be strong, so don’t skip the sun protection!
7. Sunscreen: A Backup, Not a First Line of Defense
For babies under 6 months, it’s best to avoid sunscreen altogether and rely on shade and protective clothing. For older babies, choose a baby-safe, mineral-based sunscreen (zinc or titanium dioxide).
🖐 Apply it generously—most parents don’t use enough!
⏳ Reapply every 2 hours, especially after swimming or sweating
🌊 Use water-resistant sunscreen if heading to the beach
Adventure-Ready Without the Worry
Exploring the outdoors with your baby should be fun, not stressful. By dressing them in lightweight, full-coverage clothing, keeping them hydrated, and offering cooling snacks, you’ll have a happy, comfortable Little Fisho!
Want more tips like these? Join our Little Fisho Crew & get a FREE $15 gift card to use towards our sun-safe baby and toddler outfits. Sign up now and get ready for more stress-free outdoor adventures! 🌊☀️
