How Often Should You Take a Break When Driving a Small Car Long Distance in Summer?
3 Answers
When driving a small car long distance during the day, it is recommended to take a break every 3-4 hours (professional long-distance drivers typically take breaks every 4-4.5 hours), and every 2 hours at night (professional long-distance drivers usually take breaks every 2-3 hours). High Speed: If driving at high speed, it is advisable to take a break every hour during the day. At night, for safety reasons, maintain a steady speed and avoid driving too fast. Other Scenarios: For novice drivers on the highway, it's best to stop at a service station every 2-3 hours. Experienced drivers who are not professional long-distance drivers can take breaks every 3-4 hours. If you have high energy levels, you can extend the duration slightly, but be mindful not to exceed the speed limit, as it can be very dangerous. If you're driving a medium or large truck on the highway, it's recommended to take a 15-30 minute break every 2-3 hours.
When I drive long distances, especially during the hot summer weather, I usually take a break every two hours or so in a safe place. This is not just for me, because the car gets hot under the strong sun, and driving for too long can easily lead to fatigue or even drowsiness. Getting out of the car, walking a few steps, stretching, drinking some water or energy drinks can quickly refresh me. The car also needs to cool down—engine overheating or high tire pressure are more likely to cause problems in the summer. During the 15 to 20-minute break, I also check the coolant level and tire pressure to avoid unexpected breakdowns. Last year, I didn’t pay attention to timely breaks during a trip and ended up feeling dizzy and exhausted after just three hours of driving—I learned my lesson. When planning a trip, always factor in these stops. Service areas are the most convenient, and safety always comes first—it’s far more important than rushing.
As someone who frequently drives long distances, I understand how tiring summer driving can be, so I make it a rule to take a break every two hours. High temperatures cause excessive sweating, and prolonged sitting leads to poor blood circulation and numbness in the legs and feet. A 15-minute rest allows for some physical activity, drinking cool water, or eating fruit to prevent dehydration. Ventilation in the car is also crucial—I always open the windows during stops to let fresh air in and avoid heatstroke. Bringing a damp towel to wipe my face is quite refreshing too. Health is the real asset; this approach makes driving more sustainable and allows me to check the brakes and lights. I usually stop at gas stations or parks to relax without straining the car.
