Advice/Tips for biking to work in hot weather?

I already bike to work, and have been for about a month. But we are now starting to hit to hot times of the year. It can easily be in the high 90s and very humid. My ride thankfully is only over 2 miles, but I have some steep overpasses that I have to go up that give a real workout. Right now the highest has been in the mid 80s.





What are some ways to keep cool, and frankly, stink free for work (including my smelly backpack)? I wear ';work out'; clothing while riding, bring water, and a change of work cloths. Anything else that can help?Advice/Tips for biking to work in hot weather?
Ditto on dry fit clothing. Target sells the stuff in the Champion C9 brand cheap.





Also, pack on the rack is a good idea. Don't wear a hat, wear a helmet with vents.





Also, when you get to work and change your clothes...give yourself a cowboy bath (grandma's term for taking your shirt off and wiping yourself down with a cool/wet washcloth), add deodorant before putting your clean shirt on.





If anyone ever says anything about it you can say '; I rode my bike to work because I care about the environment....what is your excuse for smelling bad?';Advice/Tips for biking to work in hot weather?
Get a rack and put your pack on that - not your back, it'll keep you much cooler. Also, on the hills, ride is a very low gear and take your time - that's where you will heat up as you already know. If work out clothing means a t-shirt/tank top and shorts that's good. Wicking fabrics especially made for sports or cycling help keep you dryer and cooler, cotton is a poor choice if you want to stay dry.
I think you are doing the right things already. the only thing I would add is make sure you wear a hat to keep the sun off your head. the only other thing I can think of is make sure you are getting other excercise than that, so you will be strong and able to withstand the strain.