WAYS TO KEEP COOL ON
PUBLIC TRANSPORT
Commuting during summer can be a nightmare. Why don't all modern buses, trains and underground stations have air conditioning?
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Stuffy, humid trains and buses aren't fun for anyone, and so we've put together a few ideas of how to keep cool on those hot journeys.
1. A HANDHELD MISTING FAN
Compact and easy to put away in a bag, a handheld electronic fan is an easy way to feel cooler when the air is particularly stuffy. We have a variety of well-reviewed handheld fans here, but one we'd like to highlight is this
blue USB rechargeable handheld fan, with a misting feature option. Although handheld fans don't have air conditioning abilities, the misting feature will make you feel cooler than just using a regular handheld fan.
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HOW DOES MISTING HELP KEEP ME COol?
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Cooling Mist Spray Option
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Foldable Design
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USB Rechargeable
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3 Speed Settings
Misting simply means that the fan is blowing out small particles of water. The water particles land on your face or wherever the fan is directed, and it will help you feel cooler through the mechanism of "moisture evaporation".
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Moisture evaporation is one of the key ways that our bodies regulate temperature. The moisture that is created when we sweat absorbs the heat from our skin as it evaporates. The water from the misting feature helps this process happen faster, and the blowing fan speeds up the evaporation process too.
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For those of us who don't sweat enough naturally, this is particularly useful!
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2. A BOTTLE WHICH KEEPS YOUR WATER COOL
Although we don't recommend downing ice cold water during the heat (as there seems to be advice that it can negatively affects digestion and can constrict blood vessels), we can all agree that water which is slightly cooled can be refreshing and help to prevent overheating. This is especially true in those situations where we can't cool down in other ways, such as when we are squished into train carriages or busy commuter buses.
A reusable water bottle is pretty much essential nowadays, so investing in one which keeps your water cool for 24 hours (or your water hot for 12 hours, should you want that in winter!) is a great purchase for summer. That's exactly what these bottles from Chilly's do.
There were so many colours to choose from we didn't know where to start, but here are a few of our favourites! They are available in 260ml, 500ml and 750ml options.
3. A FOLDING FABRIC or WOODEN HAND FAN
Sometimes when you have to get up and go out quickly, there might not be time to charge your electronic handheld fan. That's why we'd suggest always having a folding paper or wooden fan at the bottom of your bag as a backup. Plus, there might be situations where the gentle buzz of an electronic fan isn't entirely appropriate!
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Check out these sturdy, attractive foldable fans from independent sellers on Etsy to get you started on your search.
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By Etsy Shop "FanFanByronBay"
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Natural Wooden Material
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Small Size (20cm)
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By Etsy Shop "Festifans"
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Fabric with Plastic Handle
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Bright and Fun Design
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By Etsy Shop "AGiftfromMazzi "
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Wooden with Fabric
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5+ Other Colour Options
4. A COOLING NECK WRAP
It's important to mention that these cooling neck wraps need to be soaked in water to work, so this is more of an option if you live close to the bus or train station as you can prepare it at home. It isn't a good idea to pour water all over the place when you are already on a crowded carriage without causing a mess!
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So how do they work? Well, they are good at holding the water, and so they have the effect of putting a wet item of clothing on. You can wrap it around your head, around your neck, or wherever you feel too hot. It also comes with a container, so once you are off the bus you can put it away without getting your bag wet.
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