As temperatures rise across Europe and the UK braces for more hot weather, consumers are being warned that heatwaves can quietly take a serious toll on household budgets as well as personal wellbeing.

From repeatedly buying bottled water and cold drinks on the go to seeking refuge in expensive air-conditioned venues, many people end up spending far more than they realise simply trying to stay comfortable in the heat.

Heatwaves often lead to impulse spending because people are simply trying to cool down quickly.

Whether it’s overpriced drinks at tourist hotspots, expensive snacks, taxis instead of walking or paying to escape the heat indoors, the costs can mount up very quickly if you haven’t planned ahead.

But staying cool and safe doesn’t need to mean spending constantly or hiding indoors all day. A few simple habits can protect both your health and your wallet.

Here's my advice:

Stay hydrated without overspending

One of the most common and costly mistakes people make during hot weather is repeatedly buying bottled drinks throughout the day.

People often underestimate how quickly dehydration can creep up on them in high temperatures. By the time you feel thirsty, you may already be dehydrated.

Taking water with you when leaving the house can dramatically reduce spending, particularly in airports, tourist areas and transport hubs where cold drinks are often heavily marked up.

I recommend freezing a bottle of water overnight so it gradually defrosts during the day, keeping drinks cold for hours.

Many airports, train stations and public spaces now also offer free refill stations, making reusable water bottles a simple money-saving essential.

Avoid the hottest - and most expensive - part of the day

Planning activities around peak temperatures can help people avoid both heat exhaustion and unnecessary spending.

If you try to do too much during the hottest hours, that’s when you’re most likely to feel uncomfortable, tired and end up making expensive impulse purchases just to cool down.

I recommend sightseeing or outdoor activities earlier in the morning or later in the afternoon where possible, using the hottest part of the day for indoor breaks or shaded areas.

Museums, galleries and libraries can provide a cool retreat and are often free or inexpensive to visit.

Pack your own ‘cool kit’

Buying heat-relief products while out and about can quickly become expensive, particularly in tourist destinations where prices are often inflated.

I recommend packing a simple 'cool kit' before leaving home, including:
A reusable water bottle

Cooling towel or damp microfibre cloth

Handheld fan

Face mist

Sunglasses and sun cream

These are all things that cost very little if bought in advance but can become surprisingly expensive when purchased reactively in hot weather.

Don’t underestimate the power of shade

While umbrellas are usually associated with rain in the UK they can also be one of the simplest ways to stay cool during heatwaves.

A compact umbrella can provide instant portable shade when walking around exposed areas or standing in queues.

It’s a simple trick that can make a huge difference in direct sunlight.

Dress for changing temperatures

Although outdoor temperatures may be soaring, air-conditioned buildings and transport can often feel dramatically cooler.

People assume they only need lightweight clothing during a heatwave, but strong air conditioning can leave you uncomfortable surprisingly quickly.

Loose-fitting, breathable fabrics such as cotton and linen can help regulate body temperature more effectively, while carrying a lightweight extra layer can make travelling far more comfortable.

With a little preparation and some sensible planning, people can stay safe, comfortable and avoid letting hot weather quietly drain their finances.

Read more on Jane's website click here