New Trip Updated: 2026.04.15

A parasol alone isn't enough? Heatstroke prevention priorities to know before your Golden Week outings

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Golden Week is just around the corner.

It's a season when travel and outings are exciting, but heatstroke is a concern during long hours outdoors.

Do you think, "I'm fine because I'm using a parasol"? In fact, a parasol is just one measure against heatstroke. In this article, we will clearly explain the correct priority of measures and the true role of parasols.

table of contents

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1. Why does heatstroke occur?

2. How effective are parasols?

3. Prioritizing Heatstroke Prevention Measures

4. Which is better: a parasol or a hat?

5. Special attention should be paid to these locations and scenarios!

6. GW Pre-Trip Checklist

7. Summary

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一、熱中症はなぜ起きる？

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When you spend a long time outdoors during Golden Week trips or outings, your body can gradually approach its limits.

This is heatstroke.

 

Heatstroke occurs when the body's internal heat cannot escape properly in a high temperature and humidity environment, causing an abnormal rise in body temperature. While mild symptoms might just be a general feeling of sluggishness or a heavy head, severe cases can lead to loss of consciousness, making it a serious condition that shouldn't be underestimated.

 

What's particularly important to note is that even before you feel "hot," heat may already be accumulating inside your body. Taking preventative measures before symptoms appear is paramount.
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二、日傘の効果はどのくらい有効？

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In short, a parasol is a very effective item for preventing heatstroke.

However, it is not foolproof.

 

A parasol has two main effects:

  • The first is to cut ultraviolet (UV) rays.
    It prevents damage to the skin while also suppressing the direct warming of the body's surface by sunlight.
  • The second is its heat-shielding effect.
    A parasol with heat-shielding treatment can lower the perceived temperature under the umbrella by up to 5-8°C.

On the other hand, what a parasol cannot prevent is "heat from the surroundings." The glare from asphalt, radiant heat from building walls, and the high temperature itself cannot be blocked by a parasol. The most dangerous thing is to become overconfident and think, "I'm fine because I'm using a parasol."

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三、熱中症対策の優先順位

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So, what's the correct order of priorities? Consider the following:

  • 1st: Hydration and Electrolyte Replacement (Highest Priority)
    　Replenishing your body's water and electrolytes is the absolute fundamental for preventing heatstroke. The trick is to drink frequently before you feel thirsty. A guideline is around 200-300ml per hour. Sports drinks and oral rehydration solutions are recommended as they also replenish salt.
  • 2nd: Resting in a Cool Place
    　It's important to avoid direct sunlight and regularly rest your body in the shade or an air-conditioned area. Make sure to find a cool place every 30-60 minutes.
  • 3rd: Breathable Clothing and a Hat
    　Clothes made of breathable materials and wide-brimmed hats help mitigate rising body temperatures. Protecting the back of your neck is particularly effective.
  • 4th: Parasol
    　This is where a parasol comes in. It's a very effective item that blocks direct sunlight, lowering your perceived temperature, and also provides UV protection. However, the correct way to use it is as something that further enhances the effects, after you've already taken care of the top three priorities.
  • 5th: Utilizing Cooling Products
    　Cooling sprays and cooling towels worn around the neck can temporarily lower body temperature. They are effective when combined with a parasol.
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四、日傘と帽子、どちらがいい？

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We often get asked, "Should I choose a parasol or a hat?" The answer is "both."

A hat directly covers your head and has the advantage of keeping your hands free.

On the other hand, a parasol's strength is that it can create a wide shade not only for your head but also for your shoulders and arms.

In particular, a parasol with heat-shielding treatment can greatly reduce heat damage to your entire body.

 

When traveling, there are many situations where you use both hands, such as holding a camera or looking at a map.

In such cases, the best way to protect both your head and body is with a combination of a hat and a parasol.

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五、こんな場所・シーンは特に注意！

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Knowing the situations where heatstroke is likely to occur will help you know when to step up your preventative measures.

  • Outdoor Tourist Attractions/Queues
    　Standing for long periods under direct sunlight carries a very high risk of heatstroke. Make sure to use a parasol and hydrate yourself.
  • Beach/Riverside
    　Areas near water have strong reflections, which can make the perceived temperature feel much higher. In addition to a parasol, frequent hydration and resting in the shade are essential.
  • Car/Bus During Travel
    　The inside of a stopped vehicle can quickly become very hot. Furthermore, the significant temperature difference between an air-conditioned vehicle and the outside air can also strain your body. Make it a habit to hydrate every time you get on or off.
  • Traveling with Children/Elderly
    　Children and the elderly, whose thermoregulatory functions are underdeveloped or declining, are more susceptible to heatstroke. It's important to actively encourage them to rest and hydrate even before they complain of feeling hot.
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六、GWのお出かけ前チェックリスト

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Before heading out on your trip, make sure to check the following:

  • Do you have a water bottle or plastic bottle? (目安：500ml or more)
  • Have you prepared something to replenish your salt intake (e.g., sports drink, salt candy)?
  • Do you have a hat or cap?
  • Have you chosen breathable clothing?
  • Do you have a sunshade or heat-blocking parasol?
  • Have you checked for places to rest along your route (e.g., cafes, convenience stores, shaded areas)?
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七、まとめ

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Parasols are indeed a reliable item when it comes to preventing heatstroke.

However, they truly show their effectiveness when combined with basic measures such as hydration and taking breaks.

 

This year's Golden Week, please enjoy your trip energetically by preparing your countermeasures in the correct order.

We would be delighted if New Trip's parasol could become a strong companion on your journey.

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