One of the best ways to enjoy a warm summer evening is to head to a drive-in movie theater. This classic activity has been a Canadian summer staple for decades and for good reason! However, before you hit the box office, a little vehicle preparation goes a long way.
To ensure you don’t end up with a dead battery, a blocked view, or a swarm of mosquitoes in your vehicle, here are 10 essential tips to get your car drive-in-ready this summer.
Where Are the Drive-Ins in Ontario?
Although many believe drive-ins are a thing of the past, there are still many open across the province. Below are some well-known locations:
- The Mustang Drive-In — London, Ontario
- 5 Drive-in Movie Theater — Oakville, Ontario
- Starlite Drive-In — Grand Bend, Ontario
- Sunset Barrie Drive-In — Shanty Bay, Ontario
- Stardust Drive-In — Sharon, Ontario
Visit this website for more information about drive-in hours and locations.
1. Have the Right Materials
One of the most critical steps in preparing for a drive-in is to ensure you have the necessary materials. These materials can include a portable battery, comfy chairs, blankets, and bug spray. You’ll be sitting outside for at least a couple of hours, so bring whatever makes you feel most comfortable.
2. Ensure your Air Conditioning is Working
Another important way to get your car drive-in ready is to have working air conditioning. This is especially true if you’ll be sitting inside your car during the movie. Test out the air conditioning before your film starts. If it’s not working, take it to a mechanic to get it fixed before heading out to your movie endeavour. Nobody will enjoy the movie if you’re baking away in the hot summer heat!
3. Top Up On Gas Before Heading to the Drive-In
Most drive-in movie theatres are in rural areas, so there’s a good chance you’ll have to drive a bit to get there. It’s essential to top up on your gas before you leave, so you have more than enough fuel for the movie, both before and after. It is also important to note that you may need to keep your car running for the entire movie if you have an older model. This is so you can use the radio!
4. Test Your Brakes
Similar to the last tip, you often have to drive a bit to get to a drive-in movie. Check your brakes to ensure they are in good working condition, especially for a long journey, before you head to the movie. You may need to spend time in traffic either before or after the movie. Having functioning brakes is the biggest key to ensuring you navigate these transitions safely.
5. Check Your Tires
It’s also important that your tires are in good shape when going to a drive-in. Ensure they’re at the correct pressure, and visit a mechanic if you have any questions or concerns. Your tires must be in proper working order before any lengthy trip.
6. Charge Your Battery
Make sure to check your car’s battery before heading to a drive-in. If it needs to be changed, take it to a mechanic sooner rather than later. You don’t want to be stuck with a dead car battery after the event is over, or have it die on you mid-movie.
7. Research the Best Routes to Your Drive-In
To avoid unnecessary traffic, we recommend researching the best routes to get to the drive-in of your choice. Using apps like Waze will give you real-time updates on the quickest routes.
8. Have a first-aid kit handy
Although the venue will likely have resources like first aid on hand, it’s best to keep one in your car at all times. Why? In the case of minor injuries, such as needing a band-aid or extra gauze. This will ensure everyone can still enjoy the movie with peace of mind.
9. Maximize your Car’s Interior Space
Depending on how many people are attending the drive-in, adjust your car’s interior accordingly. Whether it’s putting the back seats down to create a space to lie down or reclining the seats in the front, there are lots of ways to make your car comfortable. If you have a larger vehicle, such as a pickup truck, SUV, or minivan, opt for that vehicle over a sedan or two-seater. It’s a roomier choice in the back, and you can cozy it up with extra blankets and pillows. Alternatively, if you have a convertible for a one-on-one date, even better!
10. Don’t Forget the Drive-In Snacks!
If you want to save money on snacks at the drive-in, bring some from home. Whether it’s popcorn, candy, or chocolate, everyone will have their favourite treats to enjoy during the movie.
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Drive-In Movie Quick FAQ
How do you hear the movie at a drive-in?
The theater transmits the movie’s audio over a localized low-power FM radio frequency. You tune into the specified station using your car’s stereo system or a portable radio.
Will a drive-in movie kill my car battery?
It can if your battery is old or if you leave your car’s headlights, dash lights, or climate fans running. Turning your key to the “Accessory” (ACC) position to run just the radio uses minimal power, but using a portable radio eliminates the risk.
Can you sit outside your car at a drive-in?
Yes, sitting outside in lawn chairs or sitting in the bed of a pickup truck is highly encouraged. Just ensure your chairs remain within your designated parking slot and do not block the driving lanes.
Protect Your Summer Road Trips
Whether you are taking a short drive to a local drive-in theater or planning a massive summer road trip across Ontario, ensuring your vehicle is safe is only half the battle. Make sure your auto insurance coverage is up to date and tailored to your driving habits.
Curious if you have the right roadside protection? Contact our team today
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