Last June gave us a preview: the 104-degree Fahrenheit mark was broken multiple times, and the German Weather Service compared conditions in Germany to those in the Mediterranean region. And now, at the beginning of August, the next heat wave is already in full swing.
Besides the numerous, quite important tips for surviving hot days better, there are also many gadgets that make life in midsummer more pleasant.
Fan, Spray Mist, and Cooling Plate in One
The smallest device against the heat fits in almost any pocket. The Shark ChillPill weighs 350 grams and, according to the manufacturer, combines three functions in one housing: a fan with ten speed settings and up to 7.5 meters of airflow per second, an attachment for fine spray mist, and a metal plate called InstaChill. When placed on the skin, according to SharkNinja, the temperature at the contact point should drop by up to nine degrees.
For festival-goers, the runtime should be more relevant. At the lowest setting, the battery lasts up to eleven hours according to the data sheet, at the highest only an hour and a half; it recharges via USB-C in three and a half hours. Because the device complies with ICAO standards, it's allowed in carry-on luggage. The recommended price is 149.99 euros.
Three Days of Music on One Charge
Sometimes against the heat, cooling helps less than retreat. That's exactly what the Redmi Headphones Neo, which Xiaomi introduced in mid-June, aim for. The over-ear headphones seal out noise with active, three-stage adjustable noise cancellation of up to 42 decibels. When making calls outdoors, three microphones filter out the environment; according to Xiaomi, the housing catches wind noise up to a flow of five meters per second.
The actual selling point lies in the battery. 600 milliampere-hours are enough according to the manufacturer for up to 72 hours of music. Ten minutes on the cable should suffice for another five hours. Those who prefer can listen via wired USB audio; then the transmitted frequency range extends to 40 instead of wirelessly to 20 kilohertz. The headphones are available through mi.com and electronics retailers for 74.99 euros.
Electricity from the Hat Brim
If you do run out of power or steam on the go, you'll appreciate the EcoFlow Power Hat. The black solar hat carries eight segments in the brim, each with four solar cells made of monocrystalline silicon. It delivers about twelve watts through a USB-A and a USB-C port under the rim, which is sufficient for charging the Redmi Headphones Neo and the ChillPill fan.
For hot days, however, another value counts. According to EcoFlow, the cells convert 24 percent of the absorbed heat into electricity instead of passing it on to the fabric. This keeps the surface cooler than a regular black hat. In addition, there's the sun protection factor of 50+. The construction weighs 370 grams, and the electronics are protected against dust and splash water according to IP65. In Germany, the hat costs 99 euros.
Cold Drinks Without a Power Outlet
Those who prefer to fight the heat in a glass rather than on their head or neck might consider the Anker Solix EverFrost 2. The compressor cooler comes in three sizes from 23 to 58 liters; with the largest variant, the interior space can be divided into cooling and freezer sections, so ice is stored on the left and drinks and food on the right. The temperature range extends from minus 20 to plus 20 degrees. Thanks to its rolling suitcase design and folding table, it's perfect for the beach or camping.
You can charge the battery or operate the box via power outlet, car cigarette lighter, USB-C, or solar. Those who want to increase the cooling duration from just over two to more than three days will need an optional second battery. The 58-liter version is currently available from the manufacturer for 699 euros.
When Nothing Else Helps: Dive In!
If the heat becomes unbearable despite all the aids, the only option left is to dive in. The Sublue MixPro is an underwater scooter with two motors that pulls its rider through the water at up to 6.5 kilometers per hour. It weighs 3.55 kilograms including battery, one charge is enough according to the manufacturer for about 60 minutes, and the European version of the 2026 model includes two batteries.
The scooter is approved for depths up to 40 meters; a detachable buoyancy body ensures it floats upward if someone loses their grip. Sublue explicitly recommends the device only for ages 14 and up and only for experienced swimmers. In German water sports retail, the MixPro costs 999 euros.
