Coolcationing 101: The Hottest New Way to Chill on Vacation
You know that moment when you step outside in the middle of summer and the heat almost feels like it’s pushing you back indoors? Yeah, I’ve been there—too many times. A few years ago, after one too many sweltering trips to places where even the shade didn’t feel like much of a reprieve, I decided it was time for a change. I started seeking out destinations where I could escape the heat entirely, and that’s how I stumbled onto the idea of coolcationing.
Since then, it’s become my travel sweet spot—planning trips to places where the air is crisp, the scenery is stunning, and the sun feels like a gentle kiss instead of an angry glare. Think of coolcationing as the ultimate way to refresh your spirit while dodging the relentless summer heat. Let me tell you, once you’ve hiked a misty fjord in 60-degree weather or wandered through lush mountain trails without worrying about heat exhaustion, there’s no going back.
What Exactly Is Coolcationing?
Coolcationing is the ultimate travel hack for anyone trying to dodge sky-high temperatures. Instead of sweating through traditional summer hotspots, coolcationers head for destinations offering refreshing climates. Don’t think of this as just "chasing winter"—it’s about finding cooler getaways any time of year, even during peak summer months.
After a particularly sweaty summer trip in southern Spain where I spent more time fighting the heat than enjoying the sights, I pivoted to Scotland. The crisp, cool air and dramatic highlands completely transformed my trip. And I’m not alone—as revealed by a report from the World Travel Market, nearly 30% of travelers have postponed trips to major destinations due to extreme weather, like heat waves and wildfires.
For me, coolcationing means escaping these extremes to fully enjoy outdoor adventures and soak in nature, without constantly seeking shade or AC. It’s travel on your own terms—refreshing, guilt-free, and energizing.
Why Everyone’s Talking About Coolcationing
I’m not surprised this trend is buzzing. With record-breaking heatwaves making places like the Mediterranean and parts of the U.S. borderline uninhabitable during summer, more people are seeking milder climates. I’ve been there—struggling to enjoy an alfresco dinner when it’s 104°F and your iced drink doesn’t even stay cold for two seconds.
But it’s not just about comfort. Coolcationing taps into the sustainability trend that many of us are passionate about. Cooler regions naturally lend themselves to eco-friendly activities like hiking, cycling, and exploring nature—not to mention they’re gorgeous. There’s something so grounding about leaving behind the chaos of overly crowded beaches and finding serenity in the mountains or along a misty coastline.
For me, coolcationing is also about making smarter travel choices. Extreme heat can be downright dangerous—especially for families, older travelers, or people who just want to step outside without frying. I’ve had a few friends bail on their August holidays to traditional hotspots because the heat would’ve ruined their plans. Instead, they joined me hiking through Norway’s fjords last summer, where the average temp hovered around a dreamy 60°F.
My Favorite Coolcation Destinations
After years of planning trips around finding the “perfect temperature,” here’s a short list of places I can’t recommend enough for your next coolcation.
1. Iceland
Ah, Iceland—the country where I didn’t just fall in love with coolcationing; I fell in love with cool everything. I visited in the summer, which feels wonderfully surreal because temperatures rarely go above 60°F.
Picture this: standing on a black sand beach, watching puffins, and then heading to a steaming geothermal spring. It’s truly magical. Whether you’re exploring glaciers or chasing waterfalls, Iceland hits all the right notes for adventurous coolcationers.
2. Scotland
Scotland is like a fairytale come alive. It’s where I hiked through picture-perfect highlands that felt like I was walking into the pages of an epic novel. Even in July, the weather was cool and comfortable—perfect for the long walks and castle explorations that dominate any Scottish itinerary. Plus, there’s nothing like sipping whiskey by a roaring fire after a brisk hike!
3. New Zealand
If you’re lucky enough to visit New Zealand during the northern hemisphere’s summer, you’ll step straight into their winter wonderland. I went in July one year (dead of winter for them), and it was an absolute dream for skiing and snowboarding. Just prepare for those jaw-dropping landscapes—you’ll run out of storage on your phone from all the photos!
4. Canada’s British Columbia
Every time someone asks me for a coolcation recommendation, I practically yell, “British Columbia!” From kayaking through serene coastal waters to hiking in the stunning alpine. The summer weather here is my chef’s kiss version of perfect—mid-60s to 70s during the day but always breezy and fresh. Vancouver alone is worth the trip, but it’s even better when you pair it with some outdoor magic.
5. Norway
Fjords, mountains, and—yes—the midnight sun. Norway is a dream coolcation destination. I loved exploring Tromsø last summer, where the days seemed to stretch forever, and the views were nothing short of breathtaking. Even during summer, there’s always a chill in the air—perfect for layering up and getting cozy.
Planning Your Perfect Coolcation
1. Timing Is Everything
From personal experience, nailing your timing is key. If you’re planning a winter sports getaway, aim for peak snow season (December to February). For summer escapes, I like to book trips to northern locations between late June and early August, when the weather is mild but the destinations still feel alive with activity.
2. The Right Gear Makes All the Difference
Layers. Layers. Layers. I can’t emphasize this enough. My go-to packing list includes thermal leggings, waterproof jackets, cozy scarves, and hiking boots that can handle a variety of terrains. On my trip to Lapland, Finland, I even packed heated gloves (game changers, by the way). Being well-prepped keeps you comfortable and lets you focus on the fun.
3. Adventures for Everyone
Coolcationing is so versatile—it can be adventurous, romantic, family-friendly, or solo-centered depending on how you style it. For families, think sledding in Whistler or snow tubing in Aspen. Couples? Snuggle-worthy retreats like Banff or Zermatt are a dream with their elegant lodges and serene vibes. Solo travelers will love Norway’s Tromsø or even a spot like Fairbanks, Alaska—a perfect meditative escape surrounded by nature’s beauty.
Coolcationing on Any Budget
While “coolcation” sounds fancy, it can absolutely work for budget travelers like me who still dream big. Here are some tricks I’ve picked up along the way:
- Travel off-peak: Cooler regions often have shoulder seasons, which are not only less expensive but blissfully less crowded.
- Focus on nature: A lot of coolcation destinations are built around free or affordable experiences like hiking trails, camping, or scenic drives.
- Skip luxury stays: Cozy cabins, guesthouses, or unique Airbnb rentals can give you just as much ambiance without breaking the bank.
The Hidden Benefits of Coolcationing
One unexpected perk? Sleep quality. On every single coolcation, I’ve slept beautifully. Cooler temps seem to work magic on my ability to actually rest and recharge. Pair that with fewer crowds, a more peaceful pace, and invigorating outdoor activities, and it’s genuinely restorative.
It’s also less physically draining. I can trek longer trails, explore cities comfortably, and avoid those mid-afternoon heat crashes. Not to mention, it feels good to know I’m traveling in a way that’s both eco-friendlier and stress-free.
Travel Sparks ✨
- Explore Nordic Airlines for great deals to places like Iceland, Norway, or Finland. Bonus points for off-season prices.
- Invest in high-quality base layers. They pack light and keep you warm when it counts.
- Research local events—summer festivals in cool regions add vibrant culture to your trip.
- Bring a reusable thermos. Fill it with a hot drink to sip while exploring chilly destinations.
- Prioritize outdoor-focused accommodations like eco-lodges or small inns with great views.
- Stretch your budget by choosing lesser-known cool destinations. Think Lake Louise instead of Banff or Sapporo instead of Tokyo.
Why Coolcationing Is the Trend to Watch
Listen, I’m not saying every vacation has to be a coolcation—but honestly? After years of sweating it out in tropical destinations, I think there’s something to be said for tuning into what your body and mind actually want. Coolcationing has helped me appreciate comfort, sustainability, and just how much magic exists in places off the beaten path.
If you haven’t tried swapping the heatwaves for fresh air and cooler vibes—I promise, you’re in for something special.
