Before you travel: prepare your car for the heat.
High temperatures can put extra strain on your car. That’s why, when it comes to safe travel, a quick vehicle check-up should always be the starting point. Don’t let a mechanical surprise interrupt your trip.
Check the condition of your tyres.
In summer, asphalt temperatures can reach 50°C (122°F) or more. Heat increases tyre pressure and accelerates wear. Check that they match the manufacturer’s recommended pressure (when the tyres are cold), including the spare tyre, and look for cuts or deformations that may affect grip.
Check fluid levels and the cooling system.
Your engine works harder in hot weather. Check the coolant (antifreeze), engine oil and windshield washer fluid levels. These are essential steps for safe travel during long summer journeys.
Also inspect the cooling system, which is particularly important to prevent the engine from overheating during long trips or traffic jams under the sun.
Test the battery.
Extreme heat can be even harsher on your battery than winter cold. If your battery is over four years old or showing signs of weakness when starting the engine, it’s worth having it checked before your summer trip to avoid unexpected issues along the way.
Check the air conditioning.
Make sure the air conditioning system is working properly to avoid uncomfortable journeys. Driving in 40°C heat isn’t a road trip, it’s an unplanned sauna session.
If the air only feels warm or smells unusual, consider recharging the system or replacing the cabin filter.
Lights and visibility.
Make sure all lights are functioning properly, including indicators, brake lights and fog lights. Even though summer days are longer, visibility is still crucial for safe travel, especially during dust, sudden summer storms or night driving.
Pay special attention to the windshield: strong sunlight highlights dirt and scratches that can cause dangerous glare. Ensure the wiper blades are not worn out so they can clean the glass effectively during long drives.
Safety and comfort tips during your trip.
Once your car is ready, it’s time to focus on the people inside it. Road safety is closely connected to the driver’s comfort, and maintaining comfort is key to safe travel.
1. Stay hydrated.
Drink water regularly, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Dehydration can cause fatigue, headaches and slower reaction times.
2. Take regular breaks.
Plan strategic stops every two hours or roughly every 200 km. Step out of the car, stretch your legs and rest in the shade before continuing your journey. These short breaks help maintain focus and make the trip less tiring.
3. Avoid the hottest hours of the day.
Whenever possible, avoid driving between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m., when the sun is strongest and road temperatures peak. This reduces strain on the air-conditioning system and helps avoid intense glare and peak traffic times.
4. Protect your car’s interior.
When parked in the sun, a car’s interior temperature can rise dramatically. A few simple actions can help:
- Use a windshield sunshade.
- Park in the shade whenever possible.
- Open the doors for a few seconds to release trapped hot air before turning on the air conditioning.
5. Wear comfortable clothing and sunglasses.
During summer road trips, wear light clothing and shoes that secure your feet properly (avoid driving in flip-flops). Good polarized sunglasses help reduce glare and eye strain. Don’t forget sunscreen on your face and arms if they’re exposed through the window!
6. Pack your luggage properly.
Place heavier bags at the bottom and closer to the vehicle’s centre of gravity, with lighter items on top. And please avoid leaving objects loose on the rear shelf during sudden braking, they can become dangerous projectiles.
If you want to make sure you pack everything you need, check out our tips on what to bring on a road trip.
Travel with the comfort and freshness of Enterprise.
Following these safe travel tips before and during your journey is the first step toward a smooth road trip, ensuring the only thing “overheating” is your 90s playlist.
If you prefer not to worry about last-minute vehicle checks, or if you need a more spacious and modern vehicle for your summer adventure, Enterprise is here to help.
Our fleet includes new vehicles, carefully inspected and equipped with the latest safety and comfort technologies. Whether you need an SUV for the whole family or an economical compact model for a beach getaway, we have the ideal solution for your summer travel plans.
Prepare the sunscreen, choose your destination and let us take care of the vehicle. With the right preparation and the right car, the journey itself becomes part of the holiday. The only sweat you’ll break is deciding which seaside terrace has the best sunset view. Enjoy the road and experience summer with Enterprise!
