When larping in the extreme heat of +30C (86F) weather with high humidity. It is best if you can thin down your armour and gear because playing in 50 pounds of armour and gear in that heat can lead you to a fast track for dehydration.
You will want to start hydrating yourself 2 hours before your game starts. Sports drinks are your best bet to stay hydrated. You will want to make sure you are replacing more than just the water that you are sweating out.
Consider what facilities are at your game, is there a tavern where you can get something to drink and is there a place where you can relax, Is there any area where there is water available to you on-site so you can hydrate or even drench yourself to help you cool down.
Is there a swimming area? There have been some games that I have played that had a swimming hole for anyone to use, to cool off.
What you can bring to Game to help,
- Sports drinks and water, and try to make sure that your drink is quick at hand for easy drinking some ideas that allow for easy carrying are camel packs which can fit in perfectly in a present, future or post-apocalyptic game. Another good carrying device is a wineskin for a fantasy LARP. Both of these water carrying devices can be bought at most camping or outdoor stores.
- Stay out of the sun and wear sunscreen. The shade is your friend you will swear more if you are in direct sunlight and raises your chance of getting dehydrated.
- Be prepared to relax and take it easy. If it is really hot, you should be taking it easy. The more you do the more you will sweat.
- Bring fruits and vegetables to eat they contain lots of water and replace nurturance you have lost. My favourite fruit to bring are apples they are easy to bring with you in a pocket or a pouch and can easily be eaten on the march.
Know the signs of dehydration two early signs of dehydration are thirst and dark-coloured urine. This is the body’s way of trying to increase water intake and decrease water loss. Some of the later signs are fatigue, severe dizziness, headaches, body overheating and nausea. The fastest way to cure dehydration is Sip small amounts of water. Drink carbohydrate/electrolyte-containing drinks. Good choices are sports drinks such as Gatorade.
I hope that these hints and hack will help you stay cool and hydrated in the heat of summer allowing you to better enjoy your LARP game.
