Feeling like you need a vacation from your vacation after dealing with scorching hot temperatures and crowded tourist destinations? 

Well, doctor’s orders are in: You need a "coolcation."

But, what is that? It’s exactly what it sounds like — a vacation to cooler climates.

As summer heat waves become more frequent and intense, people are trading in the sweltering tourist hotspots for locations with more mild temperatures and smaller crowds.

Think higher latitudes and higher altitudes.

And if you need some inspiration, we’ve got you covered. From Europe to North America, there's a coolcation spot for everyone.

Europe

Skip the sun-soaked Mediterranean coast and head to Scandinavia.

Places like Norway have seen a surge in summer tourism over the past few years as people flock away from the European hotspots like Italy, Spain and France.

The more refreshing temperatures, quiet fjords and smaller crowds make Norway an optimal coolcation destination.

Or try the land of fire and ice.

Iceland is a nature-lover's paradise. With long daylight hours in the summer and an entire island to explore, you won't be lacking for things to do.

Here you can trade in overcrowded tourist stops for wide open expanses with glaciers, hot springs and waterfalls at your fingertips.

(More: A meteorologist's top 5 must-see places in Iceland)

Canada

What about a summer vacation to Vancouver or Banff?

The Canadian Rockies might be a winter wonderland for a chunk of the year, but the mountains come alive in the summer.

You can enjoy the blooming wildflowers and mountain views with a side of mild temperatures.

Highs typically linger in the 60s and 70s throughout the summer — hello ideal weather!

Alaska

If you want to ditch the passport completely, we've got you covered, too.

Alaska is the ultimate coolcation destination.

Instead of crowded beaches, you can relax and refresh in the wilderness of the Last Frontier.

From glaciers to towering mountains and all the flora and fauna you could possibly desire, Alaska could be everything your vacation life needs — and you don't even have to leave the country.

So, next time you're planning a trip for the summer, don't just follow the crowd.

A vacation more off the beaten path with mild temperatures and a big dose of nature could be just what you need.

Caitlin Kaiser graduated from the Georgia Institute of Technology with both an undergraduate and graduate degree in Earth and Atmospheric Sciences before starting her career as a digital meteorologist with weather.com.