I love being outside, whether I’m out on the trail with Zina at sunrise or unwinding by the campfire after a long day of exploring. But let’s be real: that sun can sneak up on you. A great hike can turn into a rough recovery if you’re not mindful about sun safety. Sunburns aren’t just uncomfortable, they add up over time and increase your risk for skin cancer. Here’s how I keep myself protected without sacrificing the joy of being out in nature.

Why It Matters

The sun gives us life, but too much of it without protection? Not ideal. UV rays can damage your skin even on cloudy days, and I’ve gotten a burn when I didn’t think I needed sunscreen. I try to check the UV index before heading out, it’s a quick way to know how much extra caution to take.

Dress Smart, Not Hot

I get it, when it’s blazing outside, it’s tempting to default to tank tops and shorts. But if I’m going to be out for more than a quick walk, I usually opt for light, breathable long sleeves and pants. You can find great sun-protective clothing (look for UPF ratings) that keeps you covered and cool.

A Few Clothing Tips:

Good sunglasses – My eyes are light and sensitive, so polarized sunglasses with 100% UV protection are non-negotiable. Even if you’ve got darker eyes, the sun can still do damage.

Go long and light – Lightweight long sleeves and pants made for sun protection are lifesavers.

Hat it up – A wide-brimmed hat is a must. Your ears, face, and neck will thank you. I’ve seen what a sunburned ear looks like, not cute, and definitely not comfortable.

Sunscreen: Yes, You Still Need It

Even with all the right clothes, I still use sunscreen on exposed skin, especially my face, neck, hands, and the tops of my feet if I’m wearing sandals. I go for SPF 30 or higher and reapply every couple of hours, more if I’m sweating or swimming.

A few reminders:

• Don’t forget spots like the back of your neck, ears, and the tops of your hands and feet.
• Mineral vs. chemical sunscreen? Personal preference. I usually go with whatever my skin tolerates best and doesn’t feel greasy on a long hike.

Time It Right

The sun is strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., so I usually hit the trail early. Zina and I are often out the door by 6 a.m., it’s cooler, quieter, and easier on both of us. If you’re out later in the day, try to take breaks in the shade and drink plenty of water. Bonus points for bringing a lightweight tarp for shade if you’re camping or spending hours outside.

Aftercare Counts

If you do get too much sun (been there), aloe vera or an after-sun lotion can help soothe things. I keep a bottle in my camping gear just in case.

Protecting yourself from the sun doesn’t mean hiding from it. It just means being smart about how you show up prepared. A few small steps can make a huge difference in how you feel during and after your adventure.

Got any go-to sun safety tips? Share them below, I’m always up for learning what works for fellow outdoor folks.