1. Check Your Battery
Summer heat can be just as tough on your car battery as winter cold. High temperatures put extra strain on the system and can accelerate corrosion. If your car’s battery is more than three years old, have it checked before a long trip.
💡 Redspot Advantage: Every vehicle in our fleet is regularly serviced and safety-checked before hire, so you don’t have to worry about hidden issues like weak batteries.
2. Top Up or Change Fluids
Fluids are your car’s lifeblood. Low levels of oil, brake fluid, power steering fluid, or transmission fluid can reduce performance and lead to overheating. In summer, when engines are working harder, this becomes even more important.
💡 Tip for renters: With a Redspot rental car, all fluids are already checked and topped up — one less thing on your list.
3. Keep Your Engine Cool
An overheated engine can ruin a holiday faster than a traffic jam. Your cooling system works harder in summer, and over time, coolant can become contaminated or lose effectiveness. Regular flushes and fresh coolant are essential.
💡 Redspot Advantage: Our modern fleet has up-to-date cooling systems, so you can relax knowing your car is built to handle the heat.
4. Tyres: More Than Just Air
Your tyres are the only point of contact between your car and the road, so they matter. Check pressure, tread, and don’t forget the spare. A flat tyre with no usable spare can derail your trip.
💡 Good to know: Redspot checks every tyre before each rental. Plus, with 24/7 roadside assistance, you’re covered if you need help on the road.
5. Wipers and Windscreens
Clear vision is essential. Dirty windscreens and worn-out wipers aren’t just annoying — they’re a safety risk, especially in summer glare. Replace wipers if needed and keep washer fluid topped up.
💡 Tip for renters: All Redspot vehicles are cleaned and serviced before hire, meaning clear windscreens and fresh wiper blades every time.
6. Brakes: Don’t Ignore the Signs
If you notice longer stopping distances, pulsations, or grinding noises, get your brakes checked immediately. Minor problems can quickly become dangerous.
💡 Redspot Advantage: Every vehicle undergoes routine brake inspections as part of our fleet management, so you’ll always drive with confidence.
7. Prepare for Emergencies
Even the best-planned road trip can hit bumps along the way. It pays to be prepared. Keep these items in the boot if you’re driving your own car:
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Screwdrivers and wrenches
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Jumper leads
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Jack and tyre iron
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Quick-fix tyre sealant
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Flashlight
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Water (for passengers and the radiator)
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Blanket and towel
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Emergency flares or reflectors
💡 Better yet: When you hire with Redspot, you get 24-hour roadside assistance included. That means help is always a phone call away, no matter where you are.
8. Hydration & Comfort
It’s not just the car that needs fluids — you do too. Long summer drives can be draining, so keep plenty of water in the vehicle. Pack light snacks, sun protection, and travel pillows to keep everyone comfortable.
9. Entertainment for the Journey
Summer road trips often mean long stretches of highway. Keep kids (and adults!) entertained with audiobooks, playlists, or classic road trip games like “I Spy.” Many Redspot rentals feature Bluetooth connectivity and USB ports so you can stay charged and connected on the go.
10. Plan Your Breaks
Driving for hours in the Australian sun is tiring. Fatigue is one of the biggest risks on the road. Make sure to:
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Stop every 2–3 hours.
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Share driving duties if possible.
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Look out for “Driver Reviver” stops on highways.
💡 Tip: With unlimited kilometre options on many Redspot rentals, you can take your time without worrying about extra costs.
11. Navigation & Tolls
Don’t waste time stuck in traffic or circling unfamiliar streets. Book a GPS unit with your car hire, or use your phone’s maps with in-car charging.
In cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane, toll roads are common. Adding a toll pass waiver to your rental makes driving stress-free, letting you cruise through tolls without surprise fees.
12. Think About Liability
No one plans to damage a car, but accidents happen. Choosing the right cover can save you from a nasty financial hit.
With Redspot, you can opt for $0 damage liability for complete peace of mind. It’s one of our most popular add-ons, especially during busy holiday travel periods.
13. Make the Journey Part of the Holiday
A road trip isn’t just about the destination — it’s about the experiences along the way. Stop at quirky country towns, snap photos at scenic lookouts, or enjoy an impromptu swim at a hidden beach.
With a Redspot rental, you’ve got the flexibility to take detours, explore more, and truly make the journey part of the holiday.
Final Thoughts: Drive Safe, Travel Smart
Summer is the season for road trips, but the heat and long distances can take a toll on both you and your car. With the right preparation — and the right rental partner — you can enjoy every kilometre stress-free.
At Redspot Car Rentals, our well-maintained fleet, transparent pricing, and extras like toll passes and $0 damage liability make us the perfect choice for holiday travel. Plus, with airport and city locations across Australia, picking up your car and hitting the road couldn’t be easier.
👉 Book your summer road trip car hire with Redspot today and enjoy the journey, not just the destination.