Sun Safety for Hikers and Backpackers

Sunburns ruin the fun for me and they probably do for you too. Between hiking, paddle boarding, and backpacking, I’m in the sun A LOT. I also burn so, so easily. It wasn’t until after I got so burnt I could barely put on my backpack that I thought I should maybe look into ways I could prevent sunburns.

Why prevent sunburns?

Preventing sunburns is more than just comfort. However, comfort is important. You want to prevent sunburns during your adventures for a few reasons- comfort, preventative first aid, and keeping your trip fun.

Comfort and fun are closely related to each other. I don’t know about you but I get really irritable when I’m in pain and exhausted. Sunburns make both of those things happen. It isn’t fun for me (or anyone with me) when I get this way. Comfort is also a factor. Putting on a backpack on top of sunburnt shoulders HURTS. When your legs are sunburnt and you brush up next to a spiky plant, it hurts. Then, once the burn has set in, it gets so itchy. These don’t seem like a big deal and it might not be for you or your particular activity. But, on a multi-night backpacking trip, it gets old and it gets old fast.

Preventative first aid might make you roll your eyes but it’s important. Sunburns can cause dehydration. It might not be extreme but dehydration is a domino when it comes to backcountry safety. If you get really bad sunburns - raises hand - you can get sun poisoning.

Treating sunburns and the symptoms that come from them can deplete first aid resources for really no good reason. It’s preventable.

But, how can we prevent sunburns while enjoying our favorite outdoor activities?

UPF Rated Clothing

UPF rated clothing is sun protective clothing that helps block out the UV rays. this is my preferred method of sun protection because I can throw it on and then forget about it. Sun hoodies and sun shirts are the most common items but there are some pants and shorts options in this category as well. I typically focus on the sun shirts.

You can find short sleeved varieties but the more you cover, the better. A long sleeved shirt might sound awful in the summer but I promise you it isn’t as bad as it sounds. When you keep the sun off of your skin you stay cooler. You will want to aim for a very breathable and lightweight sun shirt though for the summer months.

One of my favorite ones is from Freefly Apparel. This is the women’s version and this is the men’s version. I like hoodies because the hood keeps the sun off of your neck and ears. But, it can get in the way of your hat depending on the style you like.

There are all sorts of options out there though since UPF clothing has gained popularity.

This is the linked sun hoodie

Sun Hats and Sun Glasses

Another option for sun protection is a wide brimmed hat. I know, sexy, right? The wide brim provides some shade for your neck and shoulders so while they might be a little ugly, they do have function.

One major gripe I have with wide brim hats is that it is very hard to find some with a hole for a ponytail. So long haired friends, you might struggle with this. If you can’t find one or don’t want to resemble Mr. Thornberry, a regular hat does help a little bit, too.

When it comes to sunglasses, this is less of a sunburn protection as much as it is making it so you can see without squinting. Sunglasses are so important and making sure your lenses actually filter out the UV rays is also important. I don’t recommend taking your favorite pair of designer sunglasses with you hiking though, or on the lake. You might forget them on a rock after having them for 10 years and then be absolutely shocked at how much they cost. Ask me how I know.

One of my favorite brands for effective but more budget-friendly sunglasses is Blenders Eyewear. If you need prescription sunglasses, a cost friendly place to find those is at eyebuydirect.com. I got a pair for less than $50 that have since fallen to their demise.

Sunscreen for Sun Protection

Sunscreen was probably the first thing you thought of when I mentioned sun protection. It is a simple solution and the cheapest option.

The reason I don’t go for sunscreen as my first line of defense against the sun is because I forget to reapply it and the oily residue gives me the ick, as the kids say these days.

If you do go for sunscreen, opt for something broad-spectrum for the best protection against the sun. If you will be swimming in a natural body of water, go for something “reef safe”. Reef safe sunscreens are formulated with aquatic ecosystems in mind. Would you be shocked to realize that the lake you want to jump in has fish and plants that don’t paly well with Banana Boat?

I used this sunscreen when I was in Havasupai and didn’t get burnt!

Another quick note on sunscreen for my tattooed friends - protect your art. You spent too much time, money, blood, and pain to not take care of it.