TL;DR: Summer brings unique challenges – more teen drivers on the road, holiday traffic spikes, and extreme heat can all increase accident risks.
Generally, safety experts advise doing a tire and coolant check and never leaving kids or pets in a hot car. While these are a must-know, they’re not nearly enough to keep you safe on the road. This article details how you can drive better on your summer road trip, so keep reading! (Need insurance help before you hit the road? Insure On The Spot’s team is available at 773-202-5060.)
How Should I Prepare My Car Before a Summer Road Trip?
Start with some preventive maintenance. Hot weather can stress your car’s systems, so ensure everything is in good working condition.
The checklist below will you prep your “chariot” for the journey:
Check and Top Off All Fluids
Top off your vehicle’s fluid levels, including engine oil (change it if you’re due), coolant/antifreeze, brake fluid, power steering fluid, and windshield washer fluid. Driving with low fluids can lead to overheating or mechanical failure in the summer heat. Make sure your coolant is filled to the proper level and meets your manufacturer’s specifications – coolant (antifreeze) has a higher boiling point than water, which helps prevent the engine from overheating. It’s wise to have your cooling system (radiator, water pump, thermostat, hoses) inspected for leaks or wear before a long trip, as a failure in any of these can quickly sideline your adventure.
Inspect Your Tires (Including the Spare)
During summer hot highways and heavy loads can strain your tires. So check that each tire is inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure, not the max pressure on the tire sidewall. You can find the recommended PSI on the driver’s door placard or in the owner’s manual. Underinflation is the leading cause of tire failures, especially in summer heat, so use a reliable gauge to ensure all tires (and your spare tire) are properly filled.
Next, examine the tread depth and overall condition of your tires. The tread should be at least 2/32 of an inch deep – use the penny test (if you can see the top of Lincoln’s head, the tread is too low). Replace any tires that have low or uneven tread or visible damage (cracks, bulges, punctures). However, if the tread looks OK but your tires are around 6 years old, replace them. This is because old rubber can degrade and become unsafe, particularly in high temperatures.
Also, rotate your tires for even wear if you haven’t done so in the last ~7,500 miles. And don’t forget to ensure your spare tire is in good shape and properly inflated, and that your jack and lug wrench are in the vehicle – a spare won’t help if you can’t install it.
Test the Battery and Brakes
Summer heat can be just as hard on your car battery as winter cold. High temperatures accelerate battery fluid evaporation and chemical wear, so have your battery tested by a mechanic if it’s older or if you suspect any weakness.
While you’re at it, ensure your brake pads still have plenty of life and your brakes respond properly. If your brake fluid hasn’t been changed in a long time, consider replacing it, especially if you’re going to be driving on long downhill stretches or in stop-and-go traffic. Fresh fluid will make braking easier in these situations because it hasn’t absorbed moisture.
Also, give all your lights and signals a quick function check too (headlights, brake lights, turn signals), and even ensure your floor mats are secured because if it’s out-of-place it can jam the pedals.
Make Sure the A/C Works (and Don’t Forget the Air Filter)
Test your A/C in advance. If it’s not blowing cold, you might need a refrigerant top-up or service. Also change your cabin air filter if it’s dirty, so you and your passengers get proper airflow.
But how is having a functional A/C a best driving practice? It’s because a lack of one on a 90°F day can be dangerous for young children and elderly passengers (they might suffer a heat stroke), or those with health issues. Additionally, check that your engine’s cooling fan is working and that belts and hoses related to the cooling system are in good condition (no cracks or fraying) – these help keep the engine and A/C running cool. It’s easier (and cheaper) to replace a worn belt or hose in your garage than on the side of the highway.
Pack an Emergency Roadside Kit
Always pack an emergency kit in your trunk no matter how well-maintained your car is. Essential items you want to include are a charged cell phone and car charger, a flashlight, jumper cables, a tire pressure gauge, a jack and lug wrench, basic tools (and duct tape for quick fixes), and road flares or reflective triangles.
Also bring a first aid kit (with items like bandages and any personal medications). Next, stock up on supplies to handle the summer heat. This includes packing plenty of drinking water and some non-perishable snacks in case you get stranded.
Other useful items are a few quarts of motor oil and a jug of coolant (long drives can sometimes burn a bit of oil, and having extra coolant is invaluable if you develop a leak). Don’t forget a spare phone battery or power bank, a white cloth or flag (to signal for help), and emergency blankets or towels. These items can make a huge difference if you encounter a breakdown or traffic standstill in the summer heat.
Check for Recalls and Do Routine Maintenance
Finally, take a moment to see if your vehicle has any open safety recalls. Input your VIN or license plate into the NHTSA recall lookup tool to find out quickly. If there’s a recall, get it fixed before your trip – recall repairs are free at authorized dealerships. (If you’ll be renting a car for your road trip, you can look up that vehicle’s model for recalls too.) This is also a good time to address any scheduled maintenance your car needs (oil change, tune-up, tire rotation, etc.).
How to Plan Your Route and Stops Ahead?
Before the trip, you must know where you’re going and which highways or roads you’ll take. This will significantly reduce your chances of getting lost and making erratic moves. Plot your route on a map or GPS and identify key waypoints: cities or attractions you want to see, and places you might stop for gas, meals, or overnight rests.
Be realistic when planning your driving segments. If you’re driving solo, be mindful of how many hours you can safely handle. Scheduling rest stops every few hours to stretch and recharge is wise. For multi-day trips, build in overnight stops – don’t push yourself to drive exhaustive hours each day. If you’re traveling with others, discuss everyone’s driving comfort levels: How do they feel about driving at night, in heavy traffic, or through construction zones? Plan to share driving duties or split the trip into shorter shifts so no one gets overly fatigued.
Always check the weather, road conditions, and traffic along your route beforehand. Summer weather can be unpredictable, so knowing if storms or extreme heat are expected will help you prepare. Also, don’t rush through your trip and take your time to reach the destination safely. If possible, have a backup route in mind in case of road closures or severe traffic. GPS apps can reroute you around accidents or construction, but it’s smart to familiarize yourself with a map (or keep an old-fashioned paper atlas in the car) just in case you lose cell signal.
Another tip is to let someone back home know your travel plans. It can be a friend or family member. You can periodically check-in from the road or use your phone’s location sharing. This way, someone knows where you are and when to expect you – a simple safety step in case of an emergency. If plans change, update your contact person. It only takes a quick text, and it gives peace of mind to both you and those who care about you.
Special note for young drivers: If you’re under 21 and planning an overnight trip, research lodging in advance. Many hotels require the guest checking in to be 21 or older (some allow 18+ with conditions). Rather than finding out at midnight that you can’t get a room, call ahead or look up hotel age policies in the states you’ll visit. Alternatively, plan to stay with friends or at verified campgrounds if you’re under the age limit for hotels.
How Can I Save Money on Gas and Food During a Road Trip?
Road trips are awesome, but fuel and food costs can add up quickly. A little planning can keep your adventure budget-friendly:
Plan Fuel Stops and Improve MPG
Gas will likely be one of your biggest expenses. Before you go, do some research on fuel prices along your route – gas costs can vary by state and by highway. There are smartphone apps and websites (like GasBuddy) that help locate cheaper gas stations. It might be worth taking an exit into a small town for cheaper fuel rather than filling up at a high-priced station right off the interstate.
Also, improve your fuel efficiency to save money and reduce stops: drive at a moderate speed and avoid rapid acceleration. Summer road trips can tempt you to drive fast, but keeping your speed down not only saves gas, it also reduces strain on your engine and tires. Likewise, try not to overload the car with unnecessary heavy gear – extra weight hurts gas mileage (and makes your tires heat up more). Additionally, ensure your tires are not underinflated because it reduces fuel economy. You also want to use cruise control on flat highways to help maintain efficient speed. All these little measures can help you get more miles per gallon out of each tank.
Pack a Cooler with Food and Drinks
The simplest road trip hack is bringing your own snacks and drinks. Stock a cooler with water, sodas, sandwiches, fruit, granola bars – whatever you and your passengers like. Even packing a lunch for the first day can save a lot. This way you won’t feel as tempted to buy expensive convenience store food every time you stop for gas. Plus, having food handy is useful if you get stuck in a traffic jam – no one likes a hangry driver or passenger!
Share Costs Fairly
Road trips often involve lots of little shared costs (fuel, tolls, campground fees, etc.). To avoid awkwardness, you can use apps like Venmo or Splitwise to divide costs, or take turns paying for fill-ups and meals. For example, one person buys gas, another picks up lunch, and so on – just keep a rough balance. This will ensure that everyone contributes their share so no one is stuck paying for everything. Money can be a touchy subject, but a quick chat at the start (“Let’s all agree to split gas three ways via Venmo”) sets expectations. It ensures a more relaxed trip when everyone knows the plan. Also, consider setting a budget for the trip (estimate total fuel cost, lodging, food, activities) so you have an idea of the expected expenses. This helps you avoid overspending early on and facing a cash shortage later.
Look for Free or Cheap Attractions
This isn’t exactly driving-related, but while we’re talking saving money – why not plan some low-cost fun? Many parks, museums, and attractions offer free entry or discounted days. A road trip’s joy comes from exploration, which doesn’t have to drain your wallet. Even a scenic drive through a national forest or a stop at the “World’s Largest Ball of Yarn” can be memorable without costing much. By balancing a couple of pricier activities with free ones, you keep your budget in check.
What Last-Minute Checks Should I Do Before Leaving?
It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of hitting the road, but take a few minutes for these final steps:
Personal Prep
Eat a good meal or snack so you’re not starting on an empty stomach (who knows when the next food stop will be). Use the bathroom one last time and encourage everyone in your group to do the same – it might be a while until the next rest area. Fill up your water bottles and ensure your cooler has ice. Starting the trip well-fed and hydrated will keep you alert and comfortable.
Grab the Essentials
Do a walkthrough of your house for any critical items. Did you pack your wallet/ID, driver’s license, and car registration? Do you have your phone and a charger accessible in the car? If you wear glasses or contacts, do you have those (plus sunglasses for the sun glare while driving)? Bring a hat and sunscreen as well – the summer sun can beam through car windows for hours. In post-2020 times, it’s smart to have a face mask and hand sanitizer in the car too (some places still require masks, and sanitizer is always good after gas pumps or rest stops). Double-check that you have your vehicle’s insurance card and AAA or roadside assistance info, if applicable.
Home Security
If you’re leaving your home unattended, make sure to lock all doors and windows. Set your security alarm if you have one. Many travelers like to leave a light on or set a timer for a light in the house – for example, a bathroom or hallway light – to give the impression that someone’s home. Make sure any pets staying behind are cared for and that a neighbor or friend will check on them, or that they’re boarded safely. Also, adjust your thermostat (no need to air-condition an empty house to 68°F – save energy by setting it higher or using away mode).
Final Car Check
Right before you roll out of the driveway, do a quick walk-around of your car. Ensure your luggage is securely stowed (nothing loose that could fly around if you stop short). Confirm that your tires look fully inflated (no obvious flats) and that nothing is leaking under the car. Set up your GPS or playlist before you start driving so you’re not fumbling with your phone on the road. Reset your trip odometer if you like tracking miles. Then, get everyone buckled up – every trip, every time – and you’re ready to go.
Once you’ve run through these last-minute items, you can pull out knowing you didn’t leave the stove on or forget your favorite jacket. Now, queue up that road trip playlist, and enjoy the adventure!
What Hazards Should I Watch Out for on Summer Road Trips?
Driving in summer can be beautiful, but it also comes with some seasonal hazards to be mindful of. Being aware of these dangers can help you avoid them:
Increased Traffic & Inexperienced Drivers
Summer is prime time for travel, so roads see more vehicles overall, including vacationers and tourists who may not know the local roads. It’s also important to note that when school’s out, a lot more teenagers are driving to jobs, friends’ houses, etc. Statistically, teen drivers have a higher crash risk in summer – AAA reports that 16–17-year-old drivers are three times more likely to be involved in a deadly crash compared to older drivers, and the days between Memorial Day and Labor Day are often called the “100 Deadliest Days” for teen driving. Teens are inexperienced and may be easily distracted or take risks, so the influx of younger drivers is one reason to stay alert.
One workaround is to always defensive-drive during holiday weekends. Assume other drivers might make mistakes and give everyone plenty of space. Keep a particular eye out during the evenings of holiday celebrations when drunk driving peaks. If you plan to partake in festivities, designate a sober driver or rideshare – and if you’re driving long-distance, consider avoiding travel on the busiest holiday travel days if possible.
Motorcycles, Bicycles, and Pedestrians
With nicer weather, you’ll see far more motorcycles on highways and bikes on city streets. Pedestrians are out walking in towns and scenic spots. These vulnerable road users can be harder to see. As a driver, you must stay vigilant to share the road safely. A motorcycle can easily hide in your blind spot, so double-check mirrors and look over your shoulder when changing lanes. Give motorcycles plenty of following distance (they can stop faster than cars). In cities or small towns, remember that pedestrians and cyclists have little protection. A collision can be fatal for them. Sadly, states often see higher rates of hit-and-run incidents and serious crashes involving bikes or walkers during summer. Keep your eyes scanning far and near, especially in areas with foot traffic or when passing through beach towns, parks, and residential areas.
Work Zones and Construction
Road construction tends to ramp up in summer (the saying “there are two seasons: winter and construction” exists for a reason). Be prepared for work zones on highways causing lane closures or reduced speed limits. Always slow down and follow posted instructions in construction areas. Not only is it the law, but fines and crash risks are higher in work zones. Expect sudden stops or lane shifts when approaching a construction site. Also, heat can sometimes cause pavement issues (like expansion or buckling in extreme cases), so another reason to not speed especially on very hot days.
Weather Hazards
Summer isn’t all clear skies; many regions experience intense thunderstorms, heavy rain, or even hail in the warmer months. Downpours can create slick roads and flash flooding. If you hit a storm, slow down and keep a safe distance from other cars to prevent hydroplaning. Never drive into flooded roads – even a few inches of fast-moving water can sweep a car away. In some places, summer can bring dust storms or wildfires that reduce visibility; if you encounter these, use low-beam headlights and consider pulling over until conditions improve. And of course, extreme heat itself is a hazard – not just for your car (as discussed with overheating and tires), but for you. Sun glare can hamper your vision (keep sunglasses handy), and heat can cause dehydration or fatigue. Keep yourself cool and hydrated, and if your A/C fails, take more breaks to get out of the heat.
Is It Safe to Leave Children or Pets in the Car on a Hot Day?
Even if it’s for a short time you should not leave a child or pet in a parked car in summer. This is a critical summer safety issue, as tragic incidents of children (and animals) suffering heatstroke in cars occur every year.
To reiterate, even when it’s a relatively mild 57°F outside, the inside of a car can reach about 110°F in less than an hour. On a hotter day, the temperature can climb much higher very quickly. Children are especially vulnerable because a child’s body temperature rises 3 to 5 times faster than an adult’s, and heatstroke can begin when their core temp reaches about 104°F. According to NHTSA, 2018 and 2019 each saw a record 53 children die from hot car heatstroke in the U.S. – and dozens more cases occur in other years. These tragedies are entirely preventable.
Often, these incidents happen when a caregiver forgets a quiet child in the backseat or deliberately leaves a child “just for a minute” to run an errand. Unfortunately, in the summer heat, a few minutes can be deadly. Pets left in cars are also at great risk of organ failure or death from overheating – cracking the window does not keep the car safe enough. Leaving the car running with A/C is not reliable either, because engines can shut off or A/C systems can fail. It’s just not a risk worth taking.
Safety tips: Always check the backseat every time you park (“Park, look, lock.”). Place something you need (phone, purse) in the backseat as a reminder you have a child with you. Keep your vehicle locked when at home so kids can’t climb in and get trapped accidentally. If you have pets with you on a trip, plan pet-friendly stops so you can take them out of the car whenever you get out. On road trips, it may mean eating drive-thru in the car or only going places where your pet can come along.
If you ever see a child alone in a hot car, take action. Don’t worry about legal implications because many states have Good Samaritan laws protecting those who intervene to save an endangered child or pet. Call 911 immediately if the child is unresponsive or in distress. In some cases, breaking a window to rescue them may be warranted – the authorities can guide you on what to do. Time is critical in these situations so make sure you respond quickly.
What Should I Do if My Car Overheats During a Road Trip?
If you notice your temperature gauge creeping into the red, or see steam coming from under the hood, act quickly to prevent damage. Here’s what to do:
Pull Over Safely – ASAP
At the first sign of overheating (engine temp needle high, warning light on, or steam), find a safe place to pull over as soon as you can. Continuing to drive an overheating car can severely damage the engine. Once stopped in a safe area, turn on your hazard lights and turn off the engine. This will start the cooling process. If you’re stuck in stop-and-go traffic and can’t pull over immediately, turn off the A/C and turn your heat on full blast. It sounds counterintuitive in summer, but blasting the heat can help draw excess heat away from the engine into the cabin, buying you a little time. Roll down your windows if you do this. But do not drive for long this way – it’s just a temporary measure until you can safely stop.
Pop the Hood (Carefully) and Wait
Once you’re stopped and the engine is off, it’s crucial to give the engine time to cool before touching anything. You can open the hood to vent heat – but do NOT open the radiator cap or coolant reservoir cap yet, as the coolant inside may be boiling. Touching a hot radiator cap can cause it to erupt hot coolant and steam, which can cause serious burns. It typically takes a good 20-30 minutes for an overheated engine to cool down sufficiently. So be patient. This is where that water and shade in your emergency kit come in handy – you and your passengers should hydrate and stay out of the sun while you wait.
Check Coolant Levels and Leaks
After the engine has fully cooled (the radiator cap is cool to the touch and no longer under pressure), you can put on gloves and cautiously open the coolant reservoir or radiator cap to check the coolant level. In many cars, the coolant overflow tank is transparent, so you can see if it’s low. If you have extra coolant or even water, add it to the reservoir if it’s low. This may help temporarily if the issue was just low coolant. However, adding coolant is not a fix for whatever caused the overheating – it’s just to help you possibly limp to the next service point. Also look for obvious leaks under the car; a puddle could mean a burst hose or radiator leak that needs professional repair.
Restart and See or Call for Help
After adding coolant (if needed) and ensuring things look okay, you can carefully restart the engine and monitor the temperature gauge. If it stays in normal range, you might drive gingerly to the nearest service station while keeping an eye on it. Turn off the A/C and keep speeds moderate. However, if the car still overheats or you have a major leak, it’s best to call for roadside assistance or a tow. Engine overheating can result from many causes – low coolant, a broken belt, a stuck thermostat, a faulty water pump, etc. If you’re not certain you solved it, you don’t want to risk continuing to drive and possibly causing engine damage.
Be Prepared
To avoid overheating in the first place, always travel with some extra coolant or water in your emergency kit (many experts recommend carrying a gallon of water, which can be used for drinking or topping off a radiator in a pinch). Before a long trip or during extreme heat, have a mechanic inspect your coolant level, hoses, and drive belts. If you’re traveling through very remote or hot areas (like deserts), plan drives for cooler parts of the day if possible and know the locations of gas stations or rest areas in case you need to stop.
To sum it up, an overheating car means you should immediately find a safe stop, kill the engine, and let it cool down. Don’t try to push on through – you could end up with a blown head gasket or worse. With patience and proper precautions, you can handle an overheated engine without it ruining your whole trip.
How Can I Stay Alert and Avoid Fatigue on Long Drives?
Drowsy driving is a serious concern on road trips – it can be as dangerous as drunk driving. Long hours on the highway, especially on monotonous roads, can lull you into fatigue.
Here’s how you can stay sharp behind the wheel during your summer travels:
Get Adequate Sleep Before and During the Trip
The only true cure for drowsiness is sleep. In the days leading up to your trip, try to get good sleep each night so you’re not starting out exhausted. If you’re planning an early departure, go to bed earlier than usual. It’s tempting to “push through” when driving, but schedule overnight stops if your trip is very long. Don’t plan to drive straight through the night. Our bodies have natural rhythms that will make you tired in the wee hours (and drowsy driving crashes happen most often between midnight and 6 a.m.). If you start nodding off or can’t keep your eyes open, pull over at the next safe spot and rest – even a 20-minute power nap can revive you somewhat. Better yet, swap drivers if you have a co-pilot who is fresh and able.
Take Regular Breaks to Move Around
Sitting in one position for hours can make anyone sleepy. Plan to stop every 2 hours or so, even if it’s just a quick stretch and walk at a rest area or gas station. Get your blood flowing – do some light stretches, grab a coffee or cold drink, splash some water on your face if needed. Daytime driving in bright sun can also tire you out (all that squinting and heat), so breaks help with that too. Many experienced road-trippers abide by the rule of not driving more than ~8 hours a day total. Know your personal limits; some people can handle more, but most of us start to drag after a full day of driving.
Use Caffeine Wisely, But Don’t Rely Solely on It
A cup of coffee, tea, or an energy drink can give you a temporary boost when you feel a dip in alertness. That’s perfectly fine – many drivers have a ritual of a mid-drive coffee to stay perked up. Just remember, caffeine is not a substitute for sleep. It might mask your fatigue for a short time, but when it wears off you could crash (figuratively and literally). Also, avoid overdoing the sugar; a sugary snack or drink can spike your energy then lead to a crash in energy levels. If you do use caffeine, consider spacing it – for example, a coffee in the morning and then a small one in the afternoon, rather than a huge dose all at once.
Keep Your Mind Engaged
Long highways can hypnotize you (a phenomenon known as highway hypnosis). To combat this, keep your brain a bit stimulated: listen to upbeat music, an interesting podcast or audiobook, or have conversations with your passengers. Singing along or listening to a thriller novel can prevent your mind from drifting into sleepiness. However, avoid anything too calming – for instance, quiet classical music might relax you too much. Some drivers chew gum or suck on mints to have some sensory input. If you’re alone, talking out loud (even to yourself) or doing mental exercises like planning something or recalling lyrics might help. These are short-term tactics – if you’re truly fatigued, none will work for long.
Share the Driving Load
If traveling with others who can drive, take turns. Even a couple hours’ break from driving can help you recharge. The passenger/navigator can stay awake and keep the driver engaged (two sleepy people aren’t better than one!). When it’s not your turn to drive, try to rest or nap if you can. That way you’ll be fresh for your next shift. Also, agree that if anyone feels the driver is showing signs of drowsiness (head nodding, repeated yawning, drifting out of lane), they’ll speak up and you’ll switch drivers or stop. Pride or “making good time” should never trump safety.
Recognize the Warning Signs
It’s vital to know when you’re too tired to continue. Warning signs include: difficulty focusing, frequent blinking, or heavy eyelids; trouble remembering the last few miles driven; missing exits or traffic signs; yawning repeatedly; drifting from your lane or hitting rumble strips on the road. If you notice any of these, it’s time to stop. Don’t fall for the mindset of “I’m just a little tired, I can make it another 100 miles.” It’s not worth risking your life or others’. Drowsiness can sneak up on you, and by the time you realize you’re about to fall asleep, it could be too late. Pull over somewhere safe – a rest area, a parking lot, anywhere – and take that nap or get a hotel. Even in the daytime, a quick rest can do wonders.
Staying alert on a long drive comes down to planning and listening to your body. Get your rest, break up the drive, use coffee or conversation as support tools, and never be ashamed to call it a day earlier than planned if you’re tired. The goal is to arrive alive. The road (and your destination) will still be there after a refreshing sleep.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What should I check on my car before a summer road trip?
A: Do a thorough vehicle inspection focusing on tires, fluids, battery, and cooling system. Make sure your tires are properly inflated and have good tread (at least 2/32″ depth). Check oil, coolant, brake fluid, and other fluids – top them off or change them if needed. Test your battery if it’s old, and ensure your brakes, wipers, and all lights are functioning. It’s also wise to check for any open recalls on your car via NHTSA’s website. Taking care of maintenance before you go reduces the chance of a breakdown on the road.
Q: What items should be in a summer road trip emergency kit?
A: At minimum, pack tools for car troubles and supplies to stay safe if you’re stuck. Key items include: a cell phone charger (and spare battery), jumper cables, a flashlight, basic tools (screwdrivers, pliers, duct tape), a tire pressure gauge and tire jack, and road flares or reflective triangles for breakdown signaling. Have a first aid kit with bandages and any needed medications. Bring plenty of water and some non-perishable snacks or energy bars. Include an extra bottle of engine oil and coolant, in case you need to top off fluids. And pack emergency blankets or a tarp for shelter, plus towels or rags. These supplies will help you handle common issues (like a dead battery or flat tire) and keep you safe and comfortable until help arrives.
Q: How can I keep my car from overheating in hot weather?
A: The best prevention is to ensure your cooling system is in top shape. Check that your coolant level is full and consider having it flushed if it’s old. Make sure the radiator, hoses, and belts have no leaks or cracks – replace any worn components. While driving in heat, keep an eye on the temperature gauge. Use your AC wisely; on very long uphill climbs, turning off the AC can reduce strain on the engine. If stuck in traffic and you notice the temp rising, you can run the heater at full blast to draw heat from the engine (only as a temporary measure). Always carry extra coolant or at least water. If the engine does start to overheat (gauge in red or warning light on), pull over and shut off the car before it gets critical. Let the engine cool down and don’t open the radiator cap when hot. Taking these steps should greatly minimize the risk of overheating.
Q: What are some tips for driving safely in summer traffic and weather?
A: In summer you’ll likely encounter heavier traffic, so practice patience and defensive driving. Maintain a safe following distance (extra space gives you time to react) and anticipate that other drivers might make sudden moves, especially in tourist areas or around holiday weekends. Keep your speed in check – speeding in hot weather can strain your tires and engine, and you may need more time to brake if roads are congested. If a summer storm hits (heavy rain or lightning), slow down and turn on your headlights. In rain, be cautious of hydroplaning on water; if it’s raining so hard you can’t see, safely pull over until it passes. Use your air conditioner or crack windows to prevent your windshield from fogging up in humidity. And remember, summer also means more motorcycles, bicycles, and pedestrians out and about – stay alert and give them room. Essentially, plan for the conditions: leave early if you can to avoid peak traffic, and always adapt your driving to the weather and road situation.
Q: How do I keep kids and pets safe during a summer road trip?
A: Keeping children and pets safe and comfortable requires some planning. Never leave them alone in a parked car, not even for a minute – it can become dangerously hot inside the car incredibly fast. Ensure everyone is properly restrained: kids in appropriate car seats or boosters for their age, and pets in secure carriers or pet seat belts. Pack lots of water and light snacks for them, and plan for frequent stops – children and pets both need to stretch and take bathroom breaks. Try to travel during cooler parts of the day if possible (early morning or evening) to avoid extreme heat. Use sun shades on the rear windows to block direct sun and keep the car interior cooler for passengers in the back. Keep an eye on your little ones for signs of overheating or discomfort – flush cheeks, fussiness, or in pets, excessive panting. If you notice those, cool them down with A/C or a damp cloth and take a break. Lastly, make the trip fun: bring toys, books, or download some kids’ audiobooks/music to keep them entertained, which can also keep the driver less distracted. With these measures, you can help ensure the trip is safe and enjoyable for everyone, four-legged friends included!
By following these summer road trip driving tips, you’ll be well-prepared for whatever the season throws at you – from scorching afternoons on the highway to crowded holiday traffic. A little preparation goes a long way towards keeping you and your family safe. Buckle up, drive safe, and enjoy the open road this summer!