15 Things To Take On A Hot Or Beach Riding Trip

1. Sun cream – SPF 50.

We all know that sunscreen is important to protect your skin from the sun, but even more so when you’re outside for long periods and in the middle of the day, and in countries where the sun is strong. Experts say you should take extra care in the wind and on the sand, both of which may increase your chance of sunburn.

When I go riding outside, I always wear SPF 50. I would also recommend a spray or roll-on sunscreen in addition to your normal bottle, which I think make suncream easier to apply. Also don’t forget a travel sized bottle that you can take in your saddle bags!

2. Sunglasses – at least two pairs.

Sunglasses are necessary to shield your eyes from the sun. According to Moorfields specialist NHS eye hospital in the UK, excessive sun exposure can cause irreversible damage to your eyesight. Moorfields recommends that you look for the UV 400 mark when buying to make sure they’ll protect your eyes from harmful UVA and UVB rays, and also to look for the CE mark — an indication they meet European standards. And if you’re anything like me (I have lost or broken countless pairs of sunglasses, especially when riding/around horses) I’d advise taking two pairs. Just in case.

3.   Summer jodhpurs— as many pairs as you can squeeze in!

On a hot riding holiday, you sweat, and you’re bound to be in the saddle for more than two hours at a time, meaning you’re definitely going to need a clean pair of jodhpurs each day. I love riding tights as they’re super thin and stretchy. Cream or beige jodhpurs could also be a nice summery option — I have two pairs from Decathlon that I love. Check these out!

4.   Swimwear.

Sounds obvious, but when you have all your riding gear to think about, it’s easy to forget your swimming stuff. Even if you’re not near a beach, you just never know when there might be an opportunity to use a pool, spa or go wild swimming. (I have been wild swimming while riding in Patagonia and Spain). And if you want to invest in your wellness, going for a quick paddle could be great idea, since spending time in “blue spaces” is said to be good for us and wild swimming is thought to have a range of health benefits. Just always remember water safety.

5.     Long-sleeved tops or shirts.

For me, airy, long-sleeved and loose fitting shirts, blouses or tops are a must on a hot riding holiday. I recently learned that different clothing can offer more or less sun protection depending on the colour, fabric, fit, etc. There are plenty of options out there, and you don’t need to buy from a riding shop.

6.     Socks for hot weather.

It’s going to be hot and your feet are going to be in your riding boots for hours at a time, so it’s worth thinking about your feet. These days you can buy socks that claim to release heat and ones that are good for both warm and cold weather. You could look out for wicking fabrics — which supposedly draw moisture away from the feet.

7.     A ventilated riding hat.

You can buy riding hats for hot weather, which I would say is worth it if you ride a lot in the summer or in warm places and you don’t want your head to overheat! Check out these ventilated riding hats from Your Horse. I have the Uvex Exxential II in blue, and my head stays nice and cool, although I have had some issues with the fit, so make sure yours is fitted properly!

8.     Half chaps.

Personally I think chaps are better than boots in hot weather because you can slip them off (say at lunch time) and let your legs breathe a bit without having to take your shoes off. You can also get mesh chaps these days, designed to keep your legs cool and ventilated. (My friend had a pair which he said were great).

9. Flip flops and maybe sandals.

Again, easy to forget when you’re thinking about riding, but absolutely essential if near a beach or in a hot place. Flip flops are not only useful if you want to potter down to the beach for swim, they’re also handy just for walking around a resort or for going to dinner in the evenings. Sandals might be good if you want to look a little smarter.

10. A sun hat.

On the days and hours when you’re not riding, you might still want to cover your head and protect yourself from the sun! Don’t forget, on a riding holiday you spend lots of time outside. A sun hat is essential!

11. A beach bag.

If there’s a chance to go to the beach, to a town or on a boat trip, you’ll want a lightweight bag you can throw over your shoulder to hold your sunglasses, money, phone, sun cream, towel etc. I find cotton shoulder bags are a great option as they’re easy to fold and pack, they’re machine washable and they’re not going to weigh your case down (and let’s face it, when you have your riding stuff you don’t have a lot of room). Only thing to remember is they’re not waterproof.

12. Insect repellent (roll-on).

I have been bitten a lot in the past. Bites itch and they look ugly. For me, insect repellent is a must take! I would recommend a roll-on for the same reasons that I like roll-on sunscreen, it’s easy to apply and means you’re less likely to get it on your hands or accidentally spray it in your face.

13. A reusable water bottle.

We all know the importance of staying hydrated, but when you’re doing exercise and spending lots of time in the sun (and sweating), you may need to drink even more water to avoid dehydration. Having a reusable water bottle or flask with you might remind you to drink, and means you can easily drink even when you’re out and about (just don’t forget to keep filling it up!)

14. A jumper or light jacket.

It might be baking hot normally, but you can never guarantee the weather, and some hot places can be prone to thunderstorms at certain times of year. And so, my thinking is it’s always good to be prepared, and worth having an extra layer for the evenings in case the temperature drops.

15. A book.

There is something about reading and listening to the waves at the same time. I realise we’re talking about a riding holiday, but there may be some non-riding hours when you can sneak off to the beach. And even if you’re not near a beach, a sneaky read in the morning sunshine or before dinner while waiting for the others might be exactly what you need to switch off and relax.