As Europe continues to experience soaring temperatures, travellers heading to some of the continent’s most popular destinations are facing unusually hot conditions. With several countries issuing heat alerts and temperatures exceeding 40°C in some areas, staying cool has become just as important as staying hydrated. While seeking shade, drinking plenty of water, and avoiding the hottest hours of the day remain essential, technology is also offering new ways to cope with the heat. From portable fans to wearable air conditioners, a growing range of gadgets is designed to help people stay comfortable during extreme weather.
Desk, oscillating and cordless fans
Traditional fans remain one of the simplest and most affordable ways to cool down. Desk fans are ideal for smaller hotel rooms or holiday rentals, while oscillating fans move from side to side to distribute air across a wider area. Cordless models add extra flexibility, allowing users to move them between rooms, balconies or even campsites without relying on a nearby power socket. Air circulation fans also help keep air moving throughout a room, creating a more comfortable environment even though they do not actually lower the room’s temperature.
Misting fans
Misting fans are becoming increasingly popular because they cool more effectively than standard fans. In addition to blowing air, they release an ultra-fine mist made up of tiny water droplets that evaporate almost immediately. This process helps lower the surrounding temperature without leaving furniture or clothing damp. One example is Dreo’s TurboCool range, which is available in both desktop and tower models and is designed to provide extra cooling during particularly hot weather.
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Handheld and neck fans
Portable fans remain a favourite among travellers because they are lightweight and easy to carry throughout the day. Some newer models, such as Dyson’s HushJet Mini, replace traditional spinning blades with specially designed airflow systems that create a concentrated stream of air while operating more quietly. Many handheld fans can also be placed on a desk or worn around the neck using a lanyard, making them useful while travelling by train, exploring a city or working remotely.
Neck fans have also become increasingly common during heatwaves. These devices rest comfortably around the neck and direct airflow towards the face and upper body while leaving both hands free. Cooling the neck is particularly effective because major blood vessels are located close to the skin in this area, helping the body feel cooler more quickly. Models such as the JisuLife Neck Fan offer multiple speed settings and batteries that can last for many hours, making them suitable for long sightseeing days or outdoor activities.
Wearable air conditioners
One of the newest developments in personal cooling is the wearable air conditioner. Unlike a fan, these devices do not blow air directly onto the user. Sony’s Reon Pocket Pro sits underneath clothing at the back of the neck and uses a metal cooling plate to cool the body directly. Built-in sensors monitor movement, humidity and the surrounding temperature before automatically adjusting the cooling level, creating a personalised cooling experience throughout the day.
Portable air coolers and air conditioners
Travellers staying in accommodation without built-in air conditioning may also benefit from portable cooling systems. Air coolers use water to cool the air before circulating it through a room, offering a more energy-efficient alternative to traditional air conditioning. Portable air conditioners actively remove heat from a room, making them a better option during prolonged periods of extreme heat. The right choice often depends on the size of the room, the outside temperature and the amount of cooling required.
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Cooling accessories
Not every cooling solution requires electricity. Cooling towels, reusable gel packs and cooling gloves can provide quick relief after spending time outdoors, while cooling face masks and even ice slippers have also become available for people looking for extra comfort during heatwaves. Most of these products are lightweight, relatively inexpensive and easy to pack into a suitcase or backpack. They can be particularly useful after walking through hot city streets or waiting in the sun for public transport.
Cooling products for better sleep
High daytime temperatures are often followed by warm nights, making it difficult to get enough rest. Cooling blankets and cooling pillowcases use fabrics that remain cooler against the skin, helping people sleep more comfortably without relying entirely on air conditioning. These products can be especially useful in hotels, holiday rentals or campsites where cooling systems are limited or unavailable. A better night’s sleep can also help the body recover after spending long days outdoors in extreme heat.
Cooling products for pets
Travelling with pets during a heatwave requires extra care, as animals can overheat just as easily as people. Cooling mats, cooling coats and specially designed cooling beds help dogs and other pets regulate their body temperature while resting or travelling. These products should always be used alongside access to fresh drinking water, shaded areas and regular breaks away from the heat. For anyone planning a road trip or summer holiday with their pet, they can provide an extra level of comfort during periods of extreme temperatures.
As heatwaves become more frequent across Europe, these products are likely to become increasingly common travel companions. Although they cannot replace basic precautions such as staying hydrated, wearing sun protection and avoiding the hottest hours of the day, they can help make long sightseeing days, train journeys and evenings in accommodation without air conditioning a little more comfortable.
