How to keep a car cool in the summer

When temperatures rise, it’s easy to just blast the air conditioning, but there are a host of other ways to keep cool in the car. Whether you’re parked, on the road, or driving long distances, remember to cool down your ride with these quick and easy tips for the summer.

1. Park in the shade

Parking your car in the shade may sound like a no-brainer, but how many times have we all driven past that cooler car space so that we’re closer to our destination? Make sure you pick the shady spot – it’ll make your drive much more pleasant when you get back in the car and those leather seats aren’t unbearably hot. Another top tip? Invest in reflective steering wheel and dashboard covers – they keep the heat out and the cool in.

2. Pack the essentials

When it comes to keeping cool in the car, preparation is key! Whether it’s a quick trip to the supermarket or a long haul up north, pack lots of essentials to help you stay cool. Bring an esky on your trips and fill it with cold water bottles (frozen is best!) to stay hydrated. Toss in some cold towels to put on your head and neck and don’t be afraid to stop for cool snacks! Ice blocks, anyone?

Once you’ve ticked off your checklist, don’t forget to leave a little room for peace of mind. All levels of AAMI Car Insurance cover up to $20 mil of damage to other people’s cars and property. We’ve got you covered against our brutal Aussie summers too. Fire and Theft Cover is a key feature of our Comprehensive Car Insurance, and if you’re a Third Party policy holder, you can always add it on later.

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If you don’t want a crash to spoil your summer fun, our Comprehensive Cover will cover your vehicle too. We provide not-at-fault drivers with a free hire car while you wait for your own to be repaired. With AAMI, you’ll never need to worry about getting stuck out in Woop Woop.

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3. Use sunshades

Cars might come with fans and air cons, but there are a whole host of other devices you can use to keep your vehicle cool – and they’re not particularly expensive. Sunshades, which affix to your vehicle’s windows provide extra protection to passengers in the back seat, making them perfect for napping kids. If you’re looking for a more upmarket solution, try battery-powered seat cooling cushions – the heat-busting equivalent of an electric blanket! Or add a travel fan to your car’s dashboard (you can even find solar-powered ones).  

4. Keep your cool

Getting hot and bothered is much easier when the heat is high. If you feel yourself starting to get angry or frustrated then it may be time to take a break. Pull over somewhere nice and shady, and hop out of the car to stretch your legs. If possible, grab a cold drink and get some rest. To fight poor concentration and driver fatigue, experts recommend you take a rest every two hours. Visit testyourtiredself.com.au for more information.

Read more:

• Why you should avoid hard cornering when on the road
• Distracted driving: 8 common distractions and how to fight them
• How to drive a manual car: a guide for beginners

Insurance is issued by AAI Limited ABN 48 005 297 807 AFSL 230859 (AAI) trading as AAMI. Read the relevant Product Disclosure Statement before buying this insurance. The Target Market Determination is also available. This advice has been prepared without taking into account your particular objectives, financial situations or needs, so you should consider whether it is appropriate for you before acting on it.