Driving in hot conditions

Driving in Hot Conditions

With summer just around the corner and the weather starting to pick up, it’s time to start thinking about driving in the heat! When the weather is nice there’s nothing better than getting to a nice beach or going for a cruise, music playing, and vibes are on point!

From ‘appropriate’ clothing to selecting the right routes, here are some of the best ways to drive as comfortably as possible in the blazing sun!

What clothing to wear when driving in the heat

Obviously in the summer the idea of wearing layers upon layers doesn’t seem quite right, so make sure you dress ‘appropriately’ in the heat. This is by no means a rule book on what you have to wear, but a guide to keeping you comfortable!

Shorts, t-shirts, comfortable footwear, sundresses, and whatever else you can think that would help keep you cool in the sun. Ideally you won’t be wearing a hoodie and jeans as this will make it really uncomfortable for you.

Whatever you wear, the idea is to stay cool and enjoy yourself!

Can you wear sunglasses when driving

Sunglasses.. There are a few questions surrounding this topic at the moment, are you allowed to wear them? Am I going to get fined if I wear them? Well good news, there is actually a way to tell, if your glasses allow 80-100% light transmission then you should be ok wearing them.

So basically no black out glasses, stick with a light tint on them to make sure you’re safe as you don’t want to be landed with a ridiculous fine.

Is it illegal to drive in flip flops or sandals 

No.. the simple answer to the question “is it illegal to drive in flip flops or sandals?” However, just because it isn’t illegal that doesn’t mean it’s appropriate or safe.

When driving in either flip flops, sandals, or barefoot make sure that it doesn’t hinder you ability to drive and that you’re still able to operate the pedals properly. 

Tips to plan a journey

Plan your journeys ahead! Meaning, if you know you’re going to be driving long distances in the heat, perhaps look at your route and see if there’s anywhere you can pull over and either get a few minutes in the shade, or even somewhere to buy a nice cold drink. Granted most cars have air con and you’re able to roll the windows down, but just being in the sun can drain you so stay alert!

Car maintenance

Although your car should always be fully maintained, it’s always good to have it checked over just to make sure that you aren’t going to break down in the middle of nowhere and be stranded roadside in the boiling sun.

Whatever your plan was, it’s going to be ruined. It’s also a good idea to double check the air con and windows are working fine as it would be horrible cruising along in the sunshine but you’re roasting inside your car.. Definitely a vibe killer.

It’s a good idea to make a checklist of what your car will need to be topped up on when driving in the heat, the “FLOWER” check is always a good way to make sure your car can be running as smoothly as possible. We have a checklist that will help you when you are doing your car maintenance checks.

Air conditioning vs windows down

This is always the debate when its scorching hot outside “close the windows, the air con is
much better” or “open the windows, the air con uses too much fuel”. This is definitely one of preference, on the one hand you have air conditioning, a great way to completely cool the inside of the car, and in most cases it’s far quieter than having the windows open.

Then windows down.. this is what is referred to as immaculate vibes, windows down, tunes blasting, cruising and all your friends enjoying.. There really isn’t much better than that! But you also have to consider noise from the wind flowing through the car, hair in your face, and potential things flying into the car (mostly insects). So just consider which you prefer as it’s ultimately up to you how you handle the heat.

Bank holidays

With bank holidays in mind it is essential that you remain safe when on the
roads, as not only could the heat be a potential problem, but the roads will be far busier
than usual.

With it being warmer weather and busier, this means you’re likely to get caught in traffic in the heat. If you’ve prepared well, here is where you’ll be thanking yourself, whether it being extra drinks, a bag to keep drinks cool, or keeping the air con on, be safe!

On a lighter note, the good weather is a chance to go and have some fun in the sun. If you’ve read carefully and prepared well then the bank holiday is your oyster, pick a good destination, windows down, music up, and make the most of it!

Tips when driving in the heat

• Thermal water bottle, this is an ideal way to keep water cool in your car conveniently.
  Alternatively, if you have a cool bag and some ice packs, then that would also be ideal for storing cold drinks. 
• Using a visor for your car when it’s parked in the sun, this will help to reduce the inside
  temperature of the car, so hopefully you’ll be able to touch the steering wheel without burning yourself!
• This next trick will depend on what car you have, but some cars now can be remotely operated, this gives you the chance to get the windows down or the air con flowing(or both) a few minutes before you get in the car, hopefully cooling it down somewhat.
• Be prepared! Not only for whatever destination you’re getting to, but also for anything that could potentially happen, be stocked up with the correct resources, and if you’re only using the car for the weekend, check out Veygo’s temporary car insurance to make sure you’re fully covered.

Driving in the heat FAQ’s

Do I need to refuel my car more often in the hot weather ?
Not necessarily, warmer air makes fuel last longer.. A simple google search will give you the science behind it or check out Green Car Reports take on it. However, with the weather being nice, you may want to do some exploring. Just because the article claims you get more miles for your money this doesn’t mean that you don’t need to refuel. You should always make sure you have plenty of fuel for your intended journey and some.

Can I get sunburn through car windows?
Although it isn’t guaranteed you’ll catch the sun through your car window, there is definitely a chance of getting caught off guard.

How to keep children happy in the car when it’s hot?
There’s not really an ultimate secret to this, but there are definitely some things you can do to keep them happy and reduce distractions. Try and play some classic mindless games like ‘I can name’ and ‘I spy’, this way you’re interacting with them and it shouldn’t cause too many distractions whilst driving.

Keeping them comfortable, if possible try and keep the temperature at a good level, make sure they’ve had plenty to eat and drink, make sure they’re wearing sunscreen to avoid burning, and if possible use sun visors.

Temporary car insurance