Here in Canberra, you’ll get the best of all four seasons. This means enjoying snow in the winter at nearby mountain ranges, and warm, dry summers, averaging 12 to 28°C, perfect for outdoor activities and picnics by Lake Burley Griffin.

For international students, the first Australian summer can be a shock to the system. The good news is that with a few practical strategies, plus an understanding of Australian summer culture, surviving (and even enjoying) the heat is in your grasp.

Stay hydrated

Staying hydrated is our number one tip for surviving any Aussie heat wave. In hot weather, dehydration can sneak up on you, especially if you’re not used to sustained heat. Aim to sip water consistently throughout the day rather than waiting until you’re thirsty. We’re lucky that in Australia, most of our tap water is drinkable, and UC has drinking fountains dotted around the campus. You don’t need to worry about buying countless bottles of store bought water; just grab yourself a good reusable drink bottle that you can fill up wherever you go!

Sun safety is part of everyday life

One cultural difference international visitors might notice is how early Australians learn about sun protection. The sun here is particularly harsh due to lower ozone levels, so sunscreen isn’t just for the beach.

Most locals grew up listening to a catchy Slip, Slop, Slap, Seek, Slide jingle. It taught Aussies to slip on protective clothing, slop on sunscreen, slap on a hat, seek shade and slide on sunglasses. You’ll see people wearing caps, sunglasses, and lightweight long sleeves even on extremely hot days. Sunscreen is widely available, and often free to access in a lot of cafés and shopping centres. Using SPF 50+ daily can help prevent painful sunburn and long-term skin damage.

Practice water safety, too!

There’s nothing better than relaxing by the water on a hot day, but it’s important to stay safe. Before going for a swim, whether it’s at the serene Murrumbidgee River Corridor, in a pool, or you’re heading to the beach, always tell a responsible person where you are going, when you plan to return, and what to do if you are late. Always consider your swimming ability before going into the water, and do not enter the water if signs advise of hazards. If you’re visiting a beach, always swim at a patrolled beach between the red and yellow flags.

Make sure you understand waterway safety in the ACT and beach safety precautions before summer arrives.

Aussies and air conditioning

Air-conditioning is common in Australia, but not always used the way newcomers expect. Many homes and classrooms keep the temperature moderately cool rather than icy cold. This is partly to save energy and partly to avoid the shock of moving between extreme temperatures.

At home, using fans alongside air-conditioning can help circulate cool air without driving up electricity bills. On very hot days, locals also close blinds and curtains during the afternoon to block out heat.

Dress for the climate

Australian summer fashion is practical. Breathable fabrics like cotton and linen are popular and dark, heavy clothing is often avoided during the day. Thongs (or flip-flops, as you might know them) are socially acceptable in many casual settings, and no one thinks twice about shorts and singlets at the supermarket. That said, most campuses and workplaces still expect neat attire, so lightweight but modest clothing and a casual sandal is a good balance.

Adjusting your daily routine

One subtle cultural habit is how Australians structure their days around the heat. Early mornings and evenings are preferred for exercise, errands and socialising, while the middle of the day is often slower.

On extreme heat days, people stay indoors, check weather/fire warnings and avoid unnecessary travel. As a student, planning your study sessions in air-conditioned libraries or cafés can help you stay productive while avoiding the sun.

Embracing the summer mindset

Australian summers can be intense, but they’re also manageable with the right habits. By staying hydrated, keeping on top of your sun safety, using cooling strategies, and going with the flow, you’ll not only survive the heat, you’ll start to enjoy it.