5 overlooked essentials to make summer walks more comfortable
Whether you’re on a summer stroll, a multi-day hike, or a camping trip with friends or family, summer is a great time to get outdoors and enjoy the weather. The long days and warm temperatures are a joy – but when packing your essential summer kit, check out these items that can make your trip more comfortable, enjoyable, and stress-free.
Anthisan bite and sting cream
Bites and stings may seem like an inevitable part of a long summer’s walk or camping trip – but they don’t have to ruin it. Anthisan provides relief from the bites and stings of many insects, including wasps, bees, mosquitoes, and even nettle rash, too.
Wearing long sleeves and trousers can help protect bare skin – but it’s not always practical on a hot day. Anthisan (available nationwide at Boots, Tesco, Sainsbury’s, Asda, Superdrug, Amazon and many independent pharmacies and retailers) is a tried-and-tested antihistamine cream that can be used to provide fast pain relief from any itching and inflammation.
FreshWipes biodegradable plastic-free wipes
Want to easily remove body odour, freshen up and feel clean, even if you haven’t showered? FreshWipes is an essential whether you’re camping, doing multi-day hikes, or just out walking on a hot, sticky summer’s day. The plastic-free wipes are 100% biodegradable – and you can keep them in the fridge or coolbox for an extra cooling treat. They come in coconut or grapefruit scents as well as unscented, are vegan-friendly, and are not tested on animals. Founder Liz Barnes worked as a medical rep in hospitals, selling antiseptic solutions for pre-operative skin cleansing before she launched the product – and now she’s launched Freshwipes Shampoo Caps, too, so you can clean, freshen and moisturise your hair as well. There’s also a version specifically designed for pets, so your four-legged friend can easily be cleaned up, too.
Love Corn – the ultimate hiking snack
Perfect for camping, hiking, or any outdoor activity, these delicious crunchy corn snacks are made with simple ingredients, bold flavors, and a perfect crunch. With 50% less fat than crisps, they’re also low-calorie, sugar-free, non-GMO, kosher, gluten-free, and vegan-certified. The 115g packs of Love Corn (£2.20 RRP, available at Sainsbury’s, Waitrose, Tesco, and Ocado) are great for campfire BBQs, or pairing with your favourite drinks – and 20g multipacks (£3.25, only available at Sainsbury’s) are ideal for snacking on the trails.
DioraHydrate hydration tablets
Hiking in summer can be thirsty work, and it’s easy to become dehydrated in hotter weather. DioraHydrate is scientifically formulated with precise amounts of electrolytes and carbohydrates and is designed for use in normal dehydration situations such as travelling, during/after exercise, hot climate, and thirst. Just dissolve two of the blackcurrant tablets (RRP £9.90 for 20) in 200ml of cold water.
Thule Sapling baby backpack for walking with kids
Thule Sapling is the ultimate baby backpack that lets parents share a day out with their child. The stylish and modular design means Thule Sapling keeps little ones comfortable and cool, with ample under leg support and a ventilated back panel and sitting area. It’s machine washable, and has easy access to the 22 L gear compartment while wearing the pack through convenient side zippers. Other features include a fully adjustable torso and hip belt to provide a perfect fit, a comfortable carry, and quick transition from parent to parent. Thule Sapling is perfect for summer adventures with its deployable UPF 50 sunshade which protects your child. Thule Sapling retails at £379.99 and is made with PFC free fabrics and recycled polyester.
