Heatwave Travel: Simple Rules for Safer Summer Trips

28 June 2026 Poland Radar 0 Comments

Practical tips for travel during heatwave: hydration, breaks, car checks and MOP use to keep trips safe in Poland.

As summer holidays begin, thousands of Poles hit the roads, and many plan travel during heatwave. Consequently, long drives now pose extra risks for drivers and passengers alike.

Table of Contents

Why this matters now

High temperatures reduce comfort and slow reaction times. Moreover, heat increases driver fatigue and drowsiness. Therefore, the chance of dangerous road incidents rises. In addition, heavy traffic in holiday seasons compounds the problem. Consequently, minor problems can quickly become emergencies.

Travel during heatwave: essential precautions

Pack enough drinking water and drink regularly. Also, bring sunglasses to reduce eye strain. Furthermore, check your car air conditioning before leaving. However, do not set the cabin temperature too low. Experts advise a few degrees cooler than outside. Hence, you avoid sudden temperature shocks that can cause discomfort.

Stops, MOPs and basic vehicle checks

Make a break every two hours for at least 15 to 20 minutes. Moreover, step out, stretch and cool down. Use Miejsca Obsługi Podróżnych (MOP) for rest stops. These spots offer toilets, vending machines and fuel stations. In addition, many have shaded seating. Also, inspect coolant level, engine oil, brake fluid and battery before long trips. Check tyre pressure and the spare wheel or repair kit too. Consequently, you reduce the risk of roadside breakdowns.

Children, elderly and pets

Never leave children or animals in a parked car. Interior temperatures can hit deadly levels fast. Moreover, infants and elderly people suffer heat effects sooner. Therefore, carry extra water and a shaded area for older passengers. Also, plan travel during cooler parts of the day when possible.

💡 GOOD TO KNOW: In Poland, roadside rest areas called MOPs provide fuel, toilets and food. Moreover, official services like ZUS (social security) and NFZ (public health insurer) do not help with roadside assistance. Also, fines or tickets are called “mandat” in Polish. Finally, your national ID numbers differ; Polish IDs use PESEL numbers for residents. Therefore, carry your passport or EU ID when you travel.

Plan your route and allow extra time. Also, get a good night sleep before long drives. Furthermore, share driving duties on long journeys. In addition, have emergency numbers and a charged phone at hand. Consequently, you improve your safety and that of other road users.

Remember, a few extra minutes for a break or a bottle of water can change the outcome of your trip. Therefore, act responsibly and adapt speed to current road conditions. Moreover, use available infrastructure and services to stay safe during hot spells.

Source: Read original article

📚 Looking for more help settling in Poland? Browse our complete Expat Guides.