There’s no reason why you can’t embark on an adventure vacation during the winter. A road trip can be an unforgettable experience and it’s a completely different kettle of fish in the cooler months. It’ll be off-season so many destinations will be less busy and cheaper. You can also enjoy Christmas decorations, markets, and other festivities. Even though the weather is colder, you’ll be able to witness some breathtaking scenery if you choose the right route. The roads will be more dangerous, inevitably, so it’s important to take care and be prepared. Here are seven tips for planning a winter road trip.
Keep checking the weather report
In order to prepare for a road trip beforehand and during the trip itself you need to keep checking the weather report. Google Maps is also pretty reliable and is usually up to date with any road closures due to weather warnings. It’s better to check the weather bulletins as well, however, you don’t want to get stuck anywhere due to last-minute changes. It’s especially important to be careful in more remote locations as you might not always have reception.
Research the safest routes
In the summer it’s easier to go on a road trip without a strict plan. In the winter it’s better to have a clear idea of your route. You need to research the safest roads during the winter months and ensure you do everything you can to avoid an accident. Be prepared for any trouble on the roads and contact knowledgeable car accident lawyers as soon as possible if you get into any scrapes with other drivers. The more prepared you are, the safer you will be.
Pack the right supplies
As long as you have the right supplies, you can survive and enjoy your winter road trip without any difficulties. Pack some emergency items such as a flashlight, batteries, blankets, first-aid kit, snacks, water, gloves, and boots. Here is a complete winter road trip packing list. If you’re really daring and driving where there will be snow then you could look into getting chains for your tires. This depends on the destination. In many locations, you will only need to worry about the possibility of ice on the road.
Don’t rush
Ice and snow are just a couple of the reasons why you shouldn’t rush on your winter road trip. Drive slower than you normally would and don’t plan long periods in the car. You want to ensure you have safe accommodation at a reachable distance rather than driving all night or even all day long. Plan your route carefully and bear in mind that it will take longer due to possible hazards or adverse weather conditions.
Plan your destinations more carefully
Plan your route and each stop along with possible alternatives if you get stuck or need to change direction. There are plenty of options for winter routes and road trips. Check out some of America’s best winter drives, for example. You’ll be able to find the right route for you and choose destinations along the way. In winter it’s better to be prepared and have accommodation booked as well. This way you don’t have to worry about ending up somewhere with nowhere to sleep when it’s cold.
Make sure you’re reachable
Try to stay on the grid as much as possible. If you’re driving through more rural areas you might not have the best reception, but keep your phone charged and tell people where you’re going. You should ideally leave your route and list of booked accommodation with a trusted friend or family member just as a precaution. In the unlikely event that you get lost or in any trouble, they will then have a rough idea of where you are and could send for help. It’s also a good idea to err on the side of caution.
Check everything is in working order
Finally, one of the best ways to prevent having any issues on the road is to make sure your vehicle is in working order. Here are some general winter maintenance tips. Check your car heater and antifreeze level, and check and replace any lights if necessary. Replace your wiper blades if they’re on their way out and set your wiper fluid to -40 degrees Fahrenheit. Have your battery and oil checked by a mechanic before you leave and ensure that your car has had all the necessary checkups recently. Once you’ve carried out all the necessary checks, you’ll be ready to go.