What sun protection gear do I need for hiking in the UK in July?

A UPF 50+ Buff or neck gaiter is the most practical option — it protects your neck from sunburn, doubles as a sweat-wicking headband, and weighs almost nothing. Pair it with a wide-brim hat and high-SPF sunscreen on exposed skin for full coverage.

How do I keep my water cool while hiking in the summer heat?

If you use a hydration bladder, an insulated tube cover prevents your water warming up quickly in direct sun. Alternatively, a well-insulated water bottle or keeping your bladder inside your pack (away from direct sunlight) both help. Start with ice-cold water before a hot walk.

Do I need to bring a waterproof on a summer walk in July?

Yes — July thunderstorms in UK mountain areas can be sudden and severe, and walking in soaked clothing significantly increases the risk of hypothermia even in summer. Always carry a lightweight waterproof jacket; a packable windshell also earns its place on exposed ridges where you warm up from effort but exposed to cooling wind.

What should I look for in a lightweight wind shirt for summer mountain walking?

Look for something weighing 50–100g that cuts wind without trapping heat — you want protection from exposure on ridges without overheating on the climb. Brands like Montane Featherlite and Rab Vital make purpose-built wind shirts, but even a basic running windshell works well for UK summer conditions.

How do I protect my phone when hiking in wet or sweaty summer conditions?

A waterproof phone case rated to IPX8 (submersible to 6m) protects your phone from both summer storms and river crossings, while still allowing full touchscreen use. Options like the OverBoard case also include a lanyard to prevent drops during scrambling or wild swimming.

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Updated recently

July Gear Picks — Best UK Outdoor Kit to Buy This Month

Survivals editorialUpdated 2026-02-205 min read

Quick Summary

July heat demands proper sun protection and hydration strategy
School holidays mean busy trails — explore lesser-known routes
Summer storms can be fierce — don't leave waterproofs at home

July: Peak Summer

July is the warmest month in the UK on average, and often the busiest on popular trails. School holidays, long evenings, and (hopefully) decent weather bring everyone outdoors. The kit priorities shift firmly towards heat management and hydration.

1. UV-Protective Buff or Neck Gaiter — Around £18-25

A UPF 50+ Buff protects your neck from sunburn, can be worn as a headband to manage sweat, and doubles as a face covering in dusty conditions. The CoolNet UV+ range is specifically designed for hot weather with a cooling fabric. Simple, multi-use, and genuinely important for sun protection.

2. Insulated Hydration Tube — Around £15

If you're using a hydration bladder, an insulated tube cover keeps your water cooler for longer. Nobody wants to sip warm plastic-tasting water after three hours in the sun. Several brands make clip-on insulated sleeves that fit standard tubes.

3. Lightweight Wind Shirt — Around £40-60

Not a waterproof — a wind shirt. Weighing 50-100g, these ultra-thin layers cut the wind on exposed ridges without causing you to overheat. Brilliant for summer mountain walking where you're warm from effort but exposed to wind on tops. Montane Featherlite, Rab Vital, or even a basic running windshell all work well.

4. Cooling Towel — Around £8-12

A towel that you soak in cold water, wring out, and drape around your neck. Evaporative cooling keeps you comfortable on hot approaches and low-level walks. They work surprisingly well and weigh almost nothing. Several brands make them — look for ones that come in a carry case.

5. Waterproof Phone Case — Around £15-25

Summer storms in July can be sudden and intense. A waterproof phone case protects your most important piece of kit (let's be honest) from rain, river crossings, and sweaty pockets. OverBoard and Aquapac make reliable options that still allow touchscreen use.

July thunderstorms in mountain areas can be genuinely dangerous. If you hear thunder, get off exposed ridges and summits immediately. Lightning kills people in the UK hills every year. Check the forecast and time your walks to avoid afternoon storms.

July Essentials

Buff CoolNet UV+ Multifunctional Headwear

Amazon UK

£22Budget

UPF

50+

Material

95% recycled fabric

Cooling

HeiQ cooling technology

Weight

35g

Pros

+UPF 50+ sun protection for neck and face
+Cooling fabric technology for hot weather
+Wear as neck gaiter, headband, or face covering

Cons

−Needs washing regularly in hot weather

Sun protection you'll actually use. Covers your neck, wicks sweat, and the cooling fabric makes a noticeable difference on hot July days.

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OverBoard Waterproof Phone Case

Amazon UK

£18Budget

Rating

IPX8 (submersible to 6m)

Fits

Phones up to 6.7 inches

Touchscreen

Yes — works through the case

Lanyard

Included

Pros

+Touchscreen works through the waterproof case
+IPX8 rated — genuinely waterproof, not just splash-proof
+Lanyard prevents drops during swimming or scrambling

Cons

−Camera quality slightly reduced through the plastic

Summer storms and wild swimming make a waterproof phone case essential in July. Protects your most important piece of kit and still lets you use the touchscreen.

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