Looking for some late-year warmth? Sunny road trips are the stuff of legends. Great music, open roads, and a freedom that only a long drive can offer. But when the sun starts blasting and the temperatures rise, things can quickly go from “fun” to “feeling like a baked potato in the back of a car.” And really, no one wants that.
First and foremost: Get some liquid in!
Water is, of course, your number one choice, but there are plenty of alternatives to keep things interesting. Consider sparkling water or herbal teas, which are refreshing and without all the added sugars – or combine them both and go for some sparkling tea. You could also infuse your water with slices of citrus, cucumber, or berries.
Just be careful with what you’re not drinking. Skip sugary sodas, energy drinks, or anything packed with artificial sweeteners. These can lead to a sugar crash, dehydrate you in the long run, and make your road trip feel less enjoyable, in addition to lots more toilet breaks.
Also, make sure you bring enough, not just a single bottle or can. If you think you’ve got plenty, bring some more.
Keep your skin safe from harmful UV rays
We all love a good sun-kissed glow, but overexposure can leave you looking more like a lobster than a beachgoer. When you’re spending hours in the sun, sunscreen isn’t optional but a must. Even if you’re behind the wheel, your skin is still at risk from UV rays streaming through the windows. Apply sunscreen generously, especially on your face, neck, and arms, and reapply every couple of hours. A wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and lightweight long sleeves also offer some extra protection, particularly when you’re out at a stop.
In addition to sunscreen, make sure you take plenty of breaks in the shade. If you’re driving through an area with limited cover, plan your routes to include pit stops at shaded spots. Your skin will thank you, and so will your energy levels, which can dip with prolonged sun exposure.
Cooling hacks while on the road
The air conditioning is, of course, your best friend, but sometimes it just isn’t enough – especially on a really hot day. A cooling towel can work wonders. You can dampen it with water, give it a shake, and drape it around your neck for instant relief. Or, if you’re feeling fancy, grab a spray bottle and mist your face with cool water for a quick refresh.
Before getting back into your car, cool the interior down by leaving the windows open for a few minutes while parked. Then, turn on the air conditioning or a fan to circulate air before you get in. This will help avoid that unpleasant hot car shock.
Fuel up with the right foods
Road trips can sometimes turn into a junk food frenzy. Crisps, chocolate, and fast food seem to appear out of nowhere. But let’s be real: those snacks are as much a drain on your energy as they are on your waistline. Try to pack light, refreshing snacks that hydrate as well as fuel. Watermelon, cucumber, and even grapes are full of water and will help keep you hydrated while curbing hunger. Nuts, protein bars, and whole-grain crackers are also great options. They won’t leave you feeling sluggish like sugary snacks.
The heat can take a toll on your comfort and safety, but with a few tweaks to your routine, you can stay cool, hydrated, and alert throughout your trip. With a little preparation, you can stay on track and enjoy the world around you, no matter how hot it gets.
David Prior
David Prior is the editor of Today News, responsible for the overall editorial strategy. He is an NCTJ-qualified journalist with over 20 years’ experience, and is also editor of the award-winning hyperlocal news title Altrincham Today. His LinkedIn profile is here.
