You’ve checked your tyre pressure, topped up the screenwash and made sure there’s enough fuel, but it’s not just your car that needs to be prepared for a summer road trip – we want you and your passengers to be safe and comfortable too.
Hot tips for driving this summer
Plan ahead
Roads are often busier in the summer months. Throw in unfamiliar journeys, roadworks and rising temperatures, and it can feel like travelling’s a hard slog. Reduce stress by planning your route in advance and allowing plenty of time to reach your destination.
Perfect vision
Keep a suitable pair of sunglasses in the car to help prevent you from being temporarily blinded by bright sunlight when you’re driving. And remember to top up windscreen wash and regularly clean the windscreen, as dirt and smears can make glare worse.
Fancy footwork
You may be heading to the beach, but driving a car isn’t the place for sandals or flip-flops, as they can slip and get caught under the pedals. To stay in control, be sure to wear sensible, closed-toe shoes, even when driving in the summer months
Keep cool
To remain comfortable, you’ll want the car’s interior to be nice and cool. If you’re driving at a low speed (such as through built-up areas) an open window should do the trick. However, if you’re driving at speed or on a motorway, then turning on the air-conditioning will reduce drag and increase fuel efficiency.
Protect yourself
Of course, if you’re driving on a sunny day (even with the windows up), you’ll need to apply suncream. Otherwise, you may not notice how hot your skin feels until it’s too late, and your arm or one side of your face has been sunburnt.
In-car entertainment
If you’re travelling with kids, you’ll want something to keep them occupied and reduce the risk of driver distraction. Download audiobooks, playlists or favourite films onto a phone or tablet in advance to keep them entertained while you concentrate on the road.
Car accessories
Remember to let your insurer know if you plan to fit a roof box or bike rack, as these modifications can affect your policy. Before you set off, check everything is securely fitted and within weight limits, and remember extra loads can affect handling and braking, so adjust your driving to suit.
Engine trouble
- If your engine overheats while you’re on the road, try not to panic.
- Slow down and use your hazard lights to warn other drivers that there’s a problem.
- Turn off the air conditioning, open the windows and put the fan on full to draw heat away from the engine.
- Pull over safely and switch off the engine.
- If you’re confident enough to check the coolant, remember: never remove the radiator cap while the engine is hot. If you’re not sure, wait for professional help.
Heat exhaustion
It’s not just your car that can overheat. Extreme temperatures and prolonged exposure to the heat can affect anyone. Keep an eye out for warning signs of potential heat exhaustion, such as dizziness, headaches or tiredness. If you feel unwell, stop and rest somewhere safe.
Stay hydrated
Even if you’re feeling perfectly fine, heat and dehydration can still cause tiredness and a loss of concentration. Always have a bottle of water in the car with you, and be sure to schedule regular stops (at least one 15-minute stop every two hours) so you can rest and rehydrate before continuing your journey.
Seek out the shade
Try to find a shady spot to park your car while you enjoy some welcome respite. This will give the inside of the car and its engine a chance to cool off, too. If you’re travelling with pets, never leave them shut in the car on hot days, not even for a few minutes. Always take them with you when you park but be mindful of their paws on hot tarmac.
