If you are preparing for a vacation, it is very important to properly prepare for the long drive and the heat. Follow the tips below to make your ride as comfortable and enjoyable as possible.
1. Drink water
The heat in the car affects not only the cardiovascular system, but also the ability to concentrate. Carry enough water with you so you don't end up dehydrated. Water is your great ally in the fight against heat and concentration.
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2. Ventilate the car
If you have a car in the sun, it is recommended to get into the car and turn on the air conditioning, but first ventilate it to prevent heatstroke.
3. Air conditioning
If you use the air conditioner to cool down the temperature in the car too much, you may have problems with your body's circulation. The difference between the internal and external temperature should therefore not be too great (maximum 6 – 7 °C). It is best to open all the ventilation nozzles and adjust them so that the air flow is not directed directly at the body parts, otherwise there is a greater risk of catching a cold as well.
For longer journeys, experts recommend leaving the windows open for at least the first few minutes until the air conditioning starts working. If you don't have an air conditioner, go on long trips in the evening or at night. If possible, avoid driving during the peak of the midday heat.
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4. Sunglasses
Using sunglasses makes driving safer, as the sun will not disturb your view of the road.
5. Use an eyeshadow
When not driving, install the protection on the windshield. This prevents the sun from damaging the interior of the car, and the steering wheel won't be hot when you get back into it.
6. Additional protection
Many drivers believe that behind car windows they are well protected from UV radiation, but this is only partly true. The front window protects against UV-A and UV-B radiation as much as possible, while the side windows still let in UV-A radiation, which can cause premature aging and, in the worst case, skin cancer.
You can cover the rear side windows with a special protective film. If you will be in the car for a long time, protect yourself with suitable clothes and sunscreen. Above all, children's skin is sensitive, so make sure to protect it.
7. Cover the steering wheel with a towel
It is recommended to cover the steering wheel with a towel to prevent it from getting hot. You can also place a blanket on the seats when you are not driving, especially if they are made of leather or similar materials that can get very hot.
8. Wet cloths
If you do not have an air conditioner, place wet cloths on the vents of the ventilation system. Thus, the air blowing through them will be cooler.
9. Take care of the children
If you are traveling with children, remember that the heat is even stronger for them than for you. Get them toys or something that will keep them entertained so that their ride goes faster and they don't disturb you. Never leave them alone in the car in the sun, even if the windows are down or the air conditioning is on. A child's body temperature can rise three to five times faster than an adult's.
10. Overheating of the car
Check the temperature regularly and make sure the car has enough coolant, because heat also damages your car.
11. Tires
Heat increases the chance of tires bursting, especially if they are already quite worn. Therefore, regularly check the pressure and look for any damage (if you drive a trailer, don't forget to check the tires on it as well).
12. Parking in the shade or in the garage
Parking in the shade or in a garage is the best option, even if you have to walk a bit further to your destination. It is also recommended to open the windows a little to allow hot air to escape from the car. Try to avoid driving in the midday heat, as it will be difficult to find a parking space in the shade. If you are going to park your car in the sun, it is recommended to protect it from the sun. The best option is a thermal windshield protector that reflects the sun's rays.
