How to Travel by Car in the Heat

Traveling by car, even for short trips, in very hot weather can be torture and a source of waste, detrimental to our health. However, there are effective countermeasures to take, starting with parking (in summer, the car should always be left in the shade, if possible), and then involving the proper use of windows and air conditioning.

Index of topics

Parking

When parking your car on particularly hot days, it is essential to take certain precautions to avoid damage to both the car and any objects inside the passenger compartment.

First, find a shaded spot to park your car to reduce the temperature inside the vehicle. If possible, it's best to park indoors or in an area with trees or structures that provide shade. This reduces overheating inside the car and prevents damage to heat-sensitive materials, such as plastic or vinyl. Furthermore, when the car is parked:

It is recommended, the use of sunshades for the windshield and side windows of the car. These devices can significantly reduce heat buildup in the passenger compartment and protect the seats, dashboard and other parts of the car from discoloration and degradation caused by the sun's rays;
It's important Also pay attention to objects left inside the car. Heat-sensitive items, such as electronic devices, batteries, and food, can be permanently damaged or even become dangerous when exposed to extreme temperatures. Therefore, it's advisable to avoid leaving fragile items, flammable products, or perishable foods in your car during intense heat;
If necessary, you may consider using seat covers or towels placed on the dashboard to protect them from direct sunlight. These additional measures help keep the car interior cooler and reduce the risk of heat damage.

What to do before getting into the car when it's very hot

After parking, the battle against the heat in the car is fought, and won, even before getting behind the wheel and setting off.

Before entering the car, it is advisable to open the doors or windows to dissipate some of the accumulated heat. It's also recommended to turn on the air conditioning to lower the car's interior temperature;
It is best to place a sunshade on the windshield and side windows To reduce heat buildup inside the car. This measure helps keep the interior cooler, especially if the car has been parked in the sun for a long time;
Before sitting down, you should touch the seats and seat belts to make sure they are not too hot. Materials like leather and vinyl can overheat and cause burns. Also be careful of the exterior bodywork, where temperatures can reach up to 80 degrees after a long period of storage.
Open the windows for a few minutes before setting off to allow for air exchange, it helps to eliminate the hot air trapped inside the passenger compartment;
It is advisable to choose light, light-coloured clothing made of breathable materials to reduce the effects of the heat. And never drive in a swimsuit, briefs, or a tank top;
It is always better to carry a bottle of water with you and drinkand regularly to avoid dehydration, especially during long journeys or in very hot areas;
Avoid leaving children and animals in the car on hot days, as temperatures can rise rapidly and cause serious damage to their health;

What to do during the trip

When traveling by car in very hot weather, it is important to take certain measures to maintain the comfort and safety of both passengers and the vehicle.

If the car is equipped with a system conditioned air If it's working, make sure you use it to keep the passenger compartment cool. It's recommended to set the temperature to a comfortable level, but not too cold, to avoid sudden temperature changes.
During the trip, keep the windows closed to reduce the entry of hot air in the passenger compartment and improve the efficiency of the air conditioning system;
It's good to plan regular stops along the route, especially in shaded areas or equipped rest areas. This will allow you to refresh, hydrate, and relieve muscle tension caused by prolonged driving;
Let them apply protective sunscreens on exposed skin and wear light-colored, lightweight clothing to reduce the risk of sunburn and protect yourself from damage caused by UV rays;
If the car has been parked in the sun for a while, better to open the windows or doors to let out hot air before starting the air conditioning;
If you don't have air conditioning or if the heat is particularly intense, you can use damp towels to place on seats or portable fans to cool the passenger compartment;
If possible, better plan your trip during the early morning or late afternoon hours, when temperatures tend to be milder.

The air conditioning and the windows

Air conditioning and windows deserve a separate discussion, and how both should be used.

Air conditioning can be a valuable ally in hot weather, helping to cool the car interior and reduce humidity. However, it's important use it wisely To avoid sudden temperature changes. Before starting the air conditioning system, it's best to make sure you've ventilated the car by opening windows or doors to let out any accumulated hot air. Once underway, it's recommended to adjust the air conditioning temperature to a tolerable level for passengers, avoiding setting it too low to avoid sudden temperature changes that could cause discomfort or cold drafts.
Don't set the temperature too low (20–23°C is ideal), avoid pointing the air vents directly at your face, and after some time you can turn off the A/C and keep the interior cool in fan mode.
As for the windows, it is advisable to keep them closed when driving on fast roads, As opening the windows can increase air resistance and reduce the efficiency of the air conditioning system, resulting in fuel waste. However, in situations where the car is stationary or at low speed, such as when stopping or driving on urban roads, it is possible to lower the windows to allow for better ventilation of the passenger compartment and promote air circulation.
Please remember that Car air conditioning vents should never be pointed directly at people's facesInstead, it's advisable to point the vents downward or toward the windshield, so that fresh air spreads evenly throughout the passenger compartment without interfering with the driver's visibility, causing discomfort, or causing headaches and conjunctivitis, caused by microparticles like dust and pollen that penetrate the eyes, causing tearing and redness.

Hydration when traveling by car in the heat

During a car ride in very hot weather, drinking frequently is essential to prevent dehydration and maintain good health. Drinking water regularly helps maintain the body's fluid balance and prevents symptoms such as headaches , fatigue, and dizziness, which can affect concentration and the ability to drive safely. To avoid dehydration, it's recommended to carry a supply of water with you during the trip and take small sips frequently. It's essential to avoid drinks containing alcohol, as they can increase dehydration.

Precautions for children and the elderly

When traveling by car in very hot weather, both children and the elderly require special attention to protect them from risks and ensure their well-being.

First of all, you should avoid leaving them unattended inside on hot days, as internal temperatures can rise rapidly and pose a health risk;
It is necessary to provide them with sufficient drinking water and make frequent stops to allow them to to cool off and stretch your legs;
It is necessary to make them wear light clothes and protect their skin with adequate sun creams, to avoid sunburn and damage from sun exposure.

For the elderly, the risk of dehydration and heatstroke is particularly high. Here are some precautions:

It is recommended to travel during the cooler hours of the day, such as early morning or late afternoon, to reduce exposure to intense heat;
The car interior must be well air conditioned and they must be provided with water. drink regularly, even when they are not thirsty;
During breaks, it's best to look for shaded spots and equipped areas with more comfortable conditions to allow them to relax.

Furthermore, for both children and the elderly, it's important to pay attention to signs of heat-related fatigue and discomfort, such as weakness, tiredness, headache, or dizziness. If you experience any suspicious symptoms, immediately seek shelter in a cool, shaded place and provide adequate fluids. If symptoms persist or worsen, seek immediate medical attention.

How to travel by car in the heat