A summer road trip through Armenia and Georgia promises unforgettable experiences: majestic mountains, ancient monasteries, warm seas, and welcoming locals. But the summer sun here can be intense. In July and August, average daytime temperatures in the lowlands (like Yerevan and Tbilisi) reach +30 °C, with some days soaring to +40 °C. Under the scorching Caucasian sun, it’s important not only to keep cool but also to avoid “burning out” from vacation fatigue. This guide offers practical tips to beat the heat, choose the right rental car, and stay energized and healthy on your journey.
Choose the Right Car: Air Conditioning and Light Interiors
Start by choosing a rental car equipped with air conditioning or climate control. In the summer heat, a functioning cooling system is your best road companion. Before hitting the road, make sure it’s working properly and filled with refrigerant – reputable rental companies typically ensure this. If the car has no A/C, consider switching vehicles – driving without one in +35 °C is not just uncomfortable, it’s a health risk.
Also consider the car’s color. Light-colored vehicles absorb less heat: white cars stay significantly cooler under the sun than dark ones. Dark exteriors or black leather seats can turn your car into an oven. Fabric interiors in light shades are a better choice. If your rental has dark seats, cover them with light cloth or seat covers to prevent burning when you sit down.
Use extra sun protection like tinted windows or retractable shades (ensure they’re road-legal). Sunshades for the windshield are a great help when parking. A full car cover is also handy. If nothing else is available, cover the seats with towels when parking. These small steps will help keep your interior cooler. And of course, never leave children or pets inside a parked car – even with cracked windows, temperatures can quickly reach +60 °C and lead to heatstroke.
Smart Use of the Air Conditioner
Even modern climate systems need smart use. Don’t jump into a blazing hot car and blast cold air immediately. First, open the doors or windows and let the hot air escape. Then close up, start the engine, and set the A/C to a moderate temperature – around +22 °C. Avoid sudden temperature changes (e.g. from +40 °C to +18 °C), which can cause colds or even crack your windshield. Ideally, the interior should be 5–7 degrees cooler than outside.
Let the A/C run a few minutes before driving. During your trip, keep windows slightly cracked for airflow but avoid drafts. Don’t aim icy air directly at your face – redirect vents so air circulates gently. If you start feeling chilly, adjust the settings gradually. The goal isn’t to freeze – it’s to stay alert and refreshed.
A pro tip for drivers: before shutting off the engine, turn off the A/C a few minutes early and let the system equalize. This reduces pressure buildup and protects your A/C for longer journeys in extreme heat.
Plan Around Midday Heat
Plan your days with the weather in mind. Avoid driving during the hottest hours – typically 12 to 4 p.m. in the Caucasus. Roads and engines heat up, and your body tires faster. Travel in the early morning or around sunset for cooler temps, lighter traffic, and stunning scenery.
For long distances, split your drive: travel in the morning, rest during peak heat, then continue in the evening. Use midday breaks to explore, relax by a lake, or have lunch somewhere shady.
When mapping your route, consider cooler options. Forest roads, riversides, or highlands can offer more pleasant temperatures than open plains. However, mountain roads demand more focus – don’t overextend your driving hours.
Whenever possible, park in the shade – under a tree, awning, or covered lot. If none are available, use windshield shades. Direct sunlight can raise cabin temps to +50–60 °C within an hour.
Regular Short Breaks
Even experienced drivers shouldn’t skip breaks in hot weather. Stop every two hours to cool down and stretch. Whether at a café, scenic lookout, or shaded rest stop – get out, walk a bit, and splash water on your face.
Let your car air out, especially during breaks. Crack windows or doors to release trapped heat. Avoid idling in the sun – find shade and wait out the heat if needed.
Breaks also help you recharge mentally. Don’t rush. A 10–15 minute pause can help you stay focused and drive safer – especially on mountain roads, where fatigue is dangerous.
Stay Hydrated
Water is your best friend. In hot weather, dehydration creeps up fast. Keep water within easy reach – ideally a small bottle in the cabin and a large one (5L) in the trunk.
Sip often, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Mineral or still water is best. Fruits like watermelon and peaches can also help replenish fluids.
Avoid sugary sodas and too much coffee – both can worsen dehydration. Stick to water, diluted juices, herbal teas, or mild fruit drinks. And absolutely avoid alcohol while driving – aside from legal risks, it dehydrates and impairs thermoregulation.
Tip: bring a facial mist or thermal spray to cool your skin. A damp scarf or cloth on your neck can also help. Locals often wet their heads or wear damp hats – try it, just avoid direct A/C airflow on wet skin to prevent chills.
Dress for Comfort
Choose loose, light-colored clothes made from natural fabrics like cotton or linen. Avoid tight jeans or dark synthetics. A breathable outfit keeps you cool and helps prevent fatigue.
Accessories matter: sunglasses are essential to reduce glare and protect your eyes. A hat or cap shields you from sunstroke. And don’t forget SPF – hands, face, and neck can burn even through car windows. Reapply as needed.
Wear comfortable shoes for driving – sneakers or sandals (not flip-flops). Let your feet breathe at stops. Small comforts add up on long drives.
Listen to Your Body
Pay attention to how you feel. Early signs of overheating include thirst, dry mouth, dizziness, fatigue, or racing heart. If you notice any, stop immediately. Get out, hydrate, cool down, and rest in the shade.
Open the car doors to ventilate. If needed, rinse your head or neck with cool water. A 15–20 minute nap in a shaded area can also restore energy – just don’t sleep in a hot car.
If you feel truly unwell – nausea, severe headache, or muscle cramps – it could be heatstroke. Seek cooler shelter, rest, hydrate, and don’t drive until fully recovered. Seek medical help if symptoms persist.
Also, don’t overload your itinerary. Too many stops and activities can tire you out mentally. Alternate active days with relaxing ones. It’s better to enjoy a few vivid memories than to feel drained by overplanning.
Enjoy the Journey – No Matter the Weather
By following these tips, you’ll protect your health and stay comfortable – even under the blazing Caucasus sun. With the right rental car, smart planning, hydration, and rest, summer road trips in Armenia and Georgia can be an absolute joy. Take care of yourself and your fellow travelers – and the heat won’t spoil your adventure. After all, the road itself is often the best part of the journey.