According to the CDC, on a pleasant and mild 80-degree day, your car’s interior can quickly turn into a furnace, reaching a scorching 109°F in just 20 minutes. This heat not only fries your seats and steering wheel but also poses significant health risks for you and your passengers. While a functioning air conditioning system is vital, a well-equipped car emergency kit can be a lifesaver in unforeseen circumstances.
Preparing for hot weather driving isn’t just about stocking the right essentials—it’s also about knowing what to avoid leaving in your car as temperatures soar. Certain items can become dangerous when exposed to excessive heat, posing risks ranging from minor inconveniences to serious hazards.
Before you take off on your next summer road trip, make sure you have these 16 essential items in your car and leave these potentially hazardous ones behind. This complete guide will help you stay cool, safe, and prepared for any hot, summer driving adventures.
1. Water, Water, Water
This may seem obvious, but dehydration is a major concern when temperatures rise. A plentiful supply of bottled water in your car is non-negotiable.
Keep a case of water bottles in your trunk, and consider a reusable water bottle with a filter for longer trips. Not only will this keep you hydrated, but it can also be used to cool down if you need to exit the vehicle due to a breakdown.
2. Cooling Towels
These high-tech towels are a godsend in scorching weather. When wet, they utilize evaporation to cool your body temperature. Just dampen, wring, and drape around your neck or forehead for instant relief.
Unlike regular towels, cooling towels remain remarkably cool for hours, making them ideal for outdoor activities, sporting events, or simply staying comfortable in your car.
3. Portable Fan
If your car’s air conditioning isn’t up to the task, investing in a battery-powered or USB fan can be a lifesaver. These compact devices circulate air and provide a refreshing breeze, even when you’re stuck in traffic.
For a truly reviving experience, look for a model with a misting function that combines air circulation with a fine water spray. Just remember to pack extra batteries or a car charger to keep the fan running.
4. Sunscreen
Sunburns are more than just painful—they can lead to long-term skin damage and increase the risk of skin cancer. Always keep a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF in your glove compartment and apply it liberally before heading out.
Don’t forget to reapply sunscreen every two hours, especially if you’re sweating or swimming. Avoid leaving sunscreen in your car for extended periods, as high temperatures can degrade its effectiveness.
5. Sunglasses
Protect your eyes from the sun’s harmful rays with a good pair of sunglasses. Opt for lenses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays to ensure optimal protection.
Polarized lenses can reduce glare, making them ideal for driving. Look for sunglasses that wrap around your face to shield your eyes from all angles. And remember, never leave your sunglasses on the dashboard, as the heat can warp the frames and damage the lenses.
6. Hat and Protective Clothing
A wide-brimmed hat and loose-fitting, light-colored clothing can shield you from the sun’s rays and help prevent overheating. Opt for breathable fabrics like cotton or linen to stay cool and comfortable.
Consider packing a long-sleeved shirt or a lightweight jacket for added protection when spending extended periods outdoors. These items can also come in handy if you experience a breakdown and need to wait for assistance in the sun. Avoid leaving dark-colored clothing in your car, as they absorb more heat and can make the interior feel even hotter.
7. First Aid Kit
A comprehensive first-aid kit is a must-have in any vehicle, regardless of the weather. However, during scorching summer days, it becomes even more crucial to have supplies readily available to address heat-related illnesses like heat exhaustion and heatstroke.
Ensure your kit includes essentials such as adhesive bandages, antiseptic wipes, gauze pads, pain relievers, and a digital thermometer. Don’t forget items like instant cold packs, aloe vera gel for sunburn relief, and electrolyte tablets to replenish lost salts. However, avoid leaving medications in your car for extended periods, as high temperatures can compromise their effectiveness.
8. Portable Charger or Jump Starter
A dead battery can be a nightmare in the sweltering heat. A portable charger or jump starter is a reliable solution to get your car back on track without relying on roadside assistance.
Modern portable chargers often double as jump starters, offering a versatile solution for unexpected battery issues. Choose a model with a high capacity to charge multiple devices and jump-start your vehicle multiple times on a single charge.
9. Reflective Sunshade
A reflective sunshade is your car’s first line of defense against the sun’s relentless rays. Placing it on your dashboard when parked can dramatically reduce the interior temperature, making it more comfortable to re-enter your vehicle.
Beyond keeping your car cool, a sunshade also helps protect your dashboard and upholstery from fading and cracking due to prolonged sun exposure. Avoid flimsy sunshades that can easily blow away or fold up. Opt for a sturdy, custom-fit model that provides maximum coverage and stays in place.
10. Umbrella
While summer brings sunshine, it can also bring unexpected showers. A compact umbrella is a versatile tool, offering protection from both the sun’s rays and sudden downpours.
Look for an umbrella with UV protection to shield your skin from harmful UV radiation. Choose a lightweight, foldable design that can easily fit in your car door or glove compartment.
11. Snacks
Long drives in the summer heat can leave you feeling hungry and drained. Keep a stash of non-perishable snacks in your car to keep your energy levels up and avoid making unnecessary stops in the heat.
Choose snacks that are nutritious and won’t melt or spoil easily, such as trail mix, granola bars, whole-grain crackers, or dried fruit. Avoid leaving chocolate or other heat-sensitive snacks in your car, as they can quickly turn into a gooey mess.
12. Trash Bags
A clean car is a comfortable car, especially during the summer months. Keep a few trash bags in your car to collect any litter that accumulates during your travels.
Use separate bags for recyclables and trash to promote eco-friendliness. Dispose of these bags regularly to prevent unpleasant odors from building up in your vehicle.
13. Hand Sanitizer
Warm weather can create a breeding ground for germs, making it essential to maintain good hygiene. A travel-sized bottle of hand sanitizer is a convenient way to keep your hands clean when soap and water are unavailable.
Look for a hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol content to effectively kill most germs. However, it’s important to store hand sanitizer in a cool, shaded area of your car, as excessive heat can cause the alcohol to evaporate, reducing its effectiveness.
14. Duct Tape
This versatile adhesive is a must-have for any car emergency kit. From patching up a leaky hose to temporarily securing a loose bumper, duct tape can be a lifesaver in unexpected situations.
The strong adhesive and durable material make duct tape a valuable tool for quick fixes and repairs. It can also be used to create makeshift bandages or splints for minor injuries. However, avoid leaving duct tape in your car for extended periods, as the adhesive can weaken in extreme heat.
15. Basic Tools
A small selection of essential tools can be invaluable for minor repairs or adjustments. Keep a compact toolkit in your trunk containing a wrench, pliers, a screwdriver, and a tire pressure gauge.
These simple tools can help you tighten loose bolts, replace a blown fuse, or check your tire pressure. However, avoid leaving tools in direct sunlight or extreme heat, as metal can become dangerously hot to the touch and may cause burns.
16. Fire Extinguisher
While the chances of your car catching fire are slim, having a fire extinguisher on hand can help prevent a small fire from turning into a catastrophe.
Choose a fire extinguisher that’s rated for use on car fires and learn how to use it properly. Keep it in an easily accessible location, such as your trunk or under your seat. Avoid leaving the fire extinguisher in direct sunlight or extreme heat, as excessive temperatures can reduce its effectiveness.
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With an honors degree in financial engineering, Omega Ukama deeply understands finance. Before pursuing journalism, he honed his skills at a private equity firm, giving him invaluable real-world experience. This combination of financial literacy and journalistic flair allows him to translate complex financial matters into clear and concise insights for his readers.
With an honors degree in financial engineering, Omega Ukama deeply understands finance. Before pursuing journalism, he honed his skills at a private equity firm, giving him invaluable real-world experience. This combination of financial literacy and journalistic flair allows him to translate complex financial matters into clear and concise insights for his readers.
