Nova Scotia, Canada, was going through a heat wave in July of 2023 – temperatures in the low 30s (Celsius) and humidity pushing it close to the 40s. For those who are used to winds off the Atlantic to cool the air, this was stifling.

I thought Charlie was doing well; of course I would always check the engine and, when the AC seemed to lag, I would just put my hair in a ponytail, take off the freedom panels, and enjoy the topless option a Wrangler provides.

Since people were just starting to vacation again after the long covid season, it seemed like all car rental places were completely booked up. When my brother decided to visit from the west coast, of course I told him to take the Jeep.

Well, trouble started right from the airport pick-up. I got a call from the driver saying, “ya, can you tell me how to turn on the air conditioning?” I thought it was pretty self-explanatory, but after going through everything, it turned out it was just blowing hot air. No AC.

Charlie is my first vehicle and, quite honestly, I haven’t really dealt much with AC…I would simply stick to using the vents – oops! I have no idea how long the AC was broken. In the north there was no need and earlier in the summer it just didn’t seem so bad.

The estimate I got was $1,200 last summer. This spring the estimate is $1,500. He goes in to get fixed next week.

The AC will be especially important for me this summer because I plan on doing more overlanding. It would be dangerous to continue without a way to cool off. There will be a few short solo trips in June and, in July, a straight trip to Montreal, and a meandering path back to Nova Scotia with my son. There is so much to take in along the route!

If you have any suggestions about great places to stop between Montreal and Cape Breton – and good trails to explore – please leave them in the comments! The itinerary is still being developed, and I’m trying to take in as much as I can.

Thanks for tuning in!