Your first Texas summer is going to be a shock. Here's what got me through mine.
- Hydrate before you're thirsty. By the time you feel thirsty you're already dehydrated. Keep water with you always.
- Car prep matters. Windshield sunshade, tinted windows, and a remote start if your car has it. Your steering wheel at 3pm is a branding iron without a shade.
- Plan around the heat. Outdoor stuff before 10am or after 7pm. Midday is for indoor errands and AC.
- Dress for it. Light colors, breathable fabric, hat, sunglasses. Nobody cares if you look like a tourist. Heat exhaustion doesn't care about your outfit.
- Know the signs of heat stroke. Dizziness, nausea, confusion, no longer sweating. Call 911. This kills people every summer.
Any other tips from veteran Texans?
Keep a cooler in your trunk in summer. Cold water, some snacks. If you break down on a Texas highway in July, help might take 30-45 minutes. You want water available.