Stay cool during a heat wave with these FOX Weather expert picks

Stay cool: essential warm weather items

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To help you navigate the brutal heat and humidity, FOX Weather’s team of experts have curated an essential list of items for staying comfortable during a heat wave.

Cooling solutions

Why you need it: Heat waves are extended periods of hot temperatures. When your body can’t cool itself down, you can experience heat exhaustion (plus general discomfort). 

What to consider: Cooling solutions are customizable to your unique needs, so consider your lifestyle, how many people (or pets) it may serve and what type of environment you’ll be in.

Neck fan: on sale for $23.99 (29% off)

Original price: $33.99

Lightweight and worn around the neck, fans like this one are recommended by FOX Weather meteorologist Brandy Campbell to provide some personal relief in moments when you may not be near an air conditioner or stationary fan. It has a great battery life too, making it a great hands-free, on-the-go option.

Portable handheld fan: on sale for $14.52 (19% off)

Original price: $17.99

Another recommendation of Campbell's, this portable handheld fan provides a direct, localized breeze when riding poorly-air-conditioned public transport like buses, subways and trains. This one is compact enough to take up minimal space in your work bag and weighs less than a pound. 

3-speed mini desk fan: on sale for $10.07 (6% off)

Original price: $10.78

This mini fan is a favorite of FOX Weather correspondent Robert Ray, who always travels with it (hotel rooms can get hot) and keeps it handy for extra airflow at home. It has three speeds and occupies just under five inches of space. 

Cooling towel: on sale for $12.99 (23% off)

Original price: $16.98

Great for the whole family, these cooling towels are great for instant relief from the heat. Simply soak them with water to stay cool for hours. 

Stroller fan: on sale for $9.99 (17% off)

Original price: $11.99

Keep your little one cool with a rechargeable stroller fan like this one recommended by FOX Weather correspondent Katie Byrne, which is easy to install whenever you want it. Plus, it has a long battery life. Another option for strollers is this cooling pad that helps wick away sweat and keeps babies cool during hot days. 

Cooling pet bandana: on sale for $9.99 (17% off)

Original price: $11.99

Similar to cooling towels, these cooling bandanas keep pets comfortable. It's designed with cold-sensing technology to resist heat to keep your pet comfortable. Simply put one on your pet for immediate relief. 

Washable pet mat: on sale for $9.99 (28% off)

Original price: $13.85

This washable cooling mat can be used indoors or outdoors as a comfortable reprieve for your small dog or cat. Plus, it's portable, lightweight and washable. 

Hydration 

Why you need it: Hydration is paramount during any heat wave because it directly supports your body’s primary cooling system: sweating. When temperatures rise and humidity levels are high, your body has to work harder to maintain a healthy internal temperature, which can lead to a variety of health issues. 

What to consider: The goal is to keep your water as cold as possible for as long as possible, and to have a convenient way to access it. Look for insulated bottles that keep beverages cool, as well as electrolyte packets that support the body when excessively sweating. 

Stanley tumbler: $35

This tumbler keeps drinks icy cold so you can stay hydrated. This cup's design features a convenient shape that fits into most cupholders and includes a handle that’s ideal for carrying. It has a wide straw that draws water up with ease. 

Owala water bottle: $29.99

The Owala water bottle has three layers of insulation, creating a vacuum seal that reduces heat transfer between the outside environment and the liquid inside. The lid is completely leak-proof and great for stowing in your bag. 

Hydroflask wide flex bottle: on sale for $37.46 (25% off)

Original price: $49.95

The Hydroflask wide flex skips a straw and offers a wide-mouth opening for an instant chug of water. The interior insulation keeps drinks cold for 24 hours. 

Liquid IV electrolyte powder: on sale for $22.44 (5% off)

This electrolyte powder contains a specific ratio of sodium, sugar and potassium that helps the body absorb water more quickly and efficiently — crucial for nerve function, muscle contraction and maintaining fluid balance in the body. Byrne says she doesn't travel without this similar option from LMNT in the summer. Both come in individual packets for use on the go. 

Sun protection and personal care

Why you need it: The combination of intense heat and strong UV index creates a risk for health issues as well as sunburn and chafing, which can add to the misery of extreme heat. 

What to consider: Look for a balance between effective UV blockage and comfort in extreme temperatures with sunscreens, UPF gear and cooling makeup products.

Bucket hat: on sale for $6.58 (34% off)

Original price: $9.99

Campbell likes to stay in the shade and avoid overheating with hats. Consider this UPF 50 bucket hat that simply requires you to put it on and reap the benefits of shielding your face and neck from the direct sun. This visor is another option.

Banana Boat sport sunscreen: $7.98

Banana Boat sport sunscreen has SPF 30+ and withstands sweat and water for up to 80 minutes, making it an excellent choice for family beach days or sports. 

Neutrogena face sunscreen: on sale for $11.12 (35% off)

Original price: $17.19

This oil-free sunscreen from Neutrogena is a classic. It delivers SPF 50 sun protection without clogging pores. 

Megababe thigh rescue anti-chafe stick: $9.99

Sweating can cause chafing in areas where there’s friction (i.e., under your armpits or between your thighs). This chafing stick prevents irritation on the go. 

e.l.f. primer stick: $8

This cooling primer helps keep your face cool while gripping makeup and skincare in place on sweaty days. Byrne also likes this Charlotte Tilbury setting powder that keeps her skin shine-free on TV. 

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