Most people do their traveling during the summer months, but there’s a quiet charm to taking a road trip during the chillier time of year. There are fewer people in the tourist-friendly destinations, prices are cheaper, and you get to experience a different side to some of the country’s biggest attractions. There’s a big difference between visiting a national park in the winter rather than in the summer, for instance.
But of course, there’s a reason why most people take their road trips during the summer. Winter presents an additional set of challenges that makes them slightly more difficult to organize.
Still, the presence of a challenge doesn’t mean you shouldn’t do it, especially when they can easily be overcome with some preparation. In this post, we’ll run through a few handy tips that should ensure your winter road trip runs smoothly from beginning to end.
Understand Where You’re Going
It’s important to know — broadly at least — where you’re going on a road trip, regardless of the time of year you’re making the trip. But during the winter? Then it’s essential. Some parts of the country are a roadtripper’s dream during the summer, and a roadtripper’s nightmare during the winter. Even roads that could be fine can suddenly become unpassable following snowfall.
Research your preferred route, make sure it’s recommended, and then put together a plan B in case the elements force you to abandon your original idea.
Prepare Your Vehicle
You should always check that your vehicle is road trip-worthy before setting off, and doubly so during the winter. Why? Because while there are plenty of things that can go wrong with your vehicle during the summer, there are even more things that can go wrong during the winter.
Take a chipped windshield, for instance. It’s even more important to repair your windshield before a winter road trip. You can turn to professionals like https://agdnow.com/ for help, since colder temperatures can quickly turn a small chip into a full-on crack that could derail your plans. Additionally, you might be able to manage with slightly worn tires when the weather is perfect, but not so when icy or snowy conditions demand that your tires’ gripping capabilities are up to standard.
Refresh Your Winter Driving Skills
If you don’t live in a snowy environment, then it’s essential to refresh your winter driving skills before you set off. In fact, it’s essential to do so even if you do live in a snowy environment, especially if your trip is before the season’s first snowfall. Knowing how to stop in the snow, what to do when you encounter black ice, and how to use your car’s headlights correctly can be the difference between getting home safely and having an incident.
Pack an Emergency Kit
Finally, be sure to pack an emergency kit. You never know what might happen when you’re on the road. Even a minor issue can become a big concern if you’re underprepared. An emergency kit that contains a first-aid kit, a tow rope, a flashlight, jumper cables, and a warm blanket will ensure you’re ready for whatever comes your way.