Ice, snow, sleet, slush — if you’re going on a winter road trip, you need to know how to deal with the season’s inclement weather before you even turn the key in the ignition. Even if you’re planning a winter trip specifically to avoid the snow, it’s still good to study.
Not all winter road trips involve extreme weather conditions, but you don’t have to drive in Alaska to experience winter driving conditions. Remember that it’s not just snow but snow and below-freezing temperatures that can affect winter travel.
“Many drivers don’t know what to do when the weather turns cold,” said Benjamin Leuchter, Volkswagen’s test and development driver. That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t plan winter driving adventures — in fact, we’re big fans of ski trips. That means you’ll want to prepare for driving in snowy conditions so you don’t get stuck, according to Leuchter.
Before you hit the road this winter, follow these tips from Leuchter and other car safety experts to stay safe during cold weather road trips.
Bring winter safety essentials
“Having a few essential items in your vehicle before you hit the road is key to not only giving you peace of mind, but ensuring you’re prepared in the event of inclement weather,” said Chevrolet Safety Engineer Suzanne Johansson.
In addition to a snow brush and ice scraper, Johansson recommends keeping a snow shovel and abrasive materials, such as sand or cat litter, in your car. You’ll also want to have jumper cables, flashlights, and emergency flares in case you run into unexpected problems.
While you don’t want to wear your heaviest coat, boots and gloves when you get behind the wheel (it can be difficult to drive when you’re too bundled up), Johansson recommends keeping cold-weather clothes in your car. He also suggests keeping a blanket or sleeping bag in your emergency winter car kit in case you need extra layers to stay warm if you get stuck or stranded.
Pack a DIY car emergency kit
In addition to the winter-specific car items mentioned earlier, AAA experts strongly recommend packing a well-stocked emergency kit before heading out in your vehicle. Pack a bag that includes a cellphone charger, a flashlight with extra batteries, a first-aid kit, drinking water, and extra snacks and food to keep in your car for travelers and pets.
Prepare your car for winter
In the days leading up to a long trip, take the time to have your car inspected by an expert. “Have your dealer or trusted mechanic perform any scheduled service on your vehicle [before you embark on a trip in wintry conditions]During this service visit, make sure your battery, tires, headlights, brake lights, wiper blades and other important parts are tested and ready for winter, she added.
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Check your tires
Because your tires are the only parts of your car that actually touch the road, it’s especially important to make sure they’re ready to roll before your winter road trip begins. AAA advises starting by checking tread depth, which you can do by inserting a quarter (head first) into the tread. If you can see the top of George Washington’s head, it’s time for new tires.
Leuchter also advises checking the pressure on all four tires, especially in the winter when it tends to drop with temperature. Regularly check and adjust your tire pressure to the recommended levels for your vehicle, which are listed inside the driver’s side door.
Hit the car wash
Keeping a clean car may not be top of mind when you’re preparing for a winter road trip, but our experts say it’s a commonly missed tip you should prioritize. This is especially true for cars with advanced safety features that rely on sensors and cameras. At the front, keep the windshield, front grill, front bumper area and headlamps clean. At the rear, make sure the rear camera lens and rear bumper are clean.
Download the appropriate apps
Another way to prepare for a winter road trip is to load your phone with helpful apps. Here are some options:
- weather underground, weather, weather bug: Any weather app that provides both long-range forecasts and emergency weather alerts based on your current GPS (like this one) will ensure that you receive up-to-date information about driving conditions during your commute.
- gasbody: The app is designed to help you find the cheapest gas while driving to your destination, but it also doubles as a way to find the nearest service station in an emergency.
- ChargePoint, ChargeHub, Electrify America: Travelers with electric vehicles should use one of these apps to find nearby charging locations.
- Ways: Use this directions app to get real-time, congestion-source road conditions and hazards.
- Google Maps: This app allows you to download directions for offline use so you always know how to get to your destination, even if you lose your phone signal.
- Trip Whistle: One of us A favorite travel app, TripWhistle maps your location and allows you to easily text or send your GPS coordinates.
- Hotel Tonight: Another go-to app among TPGers, this last-minute booking app can find available hotel rooms nearby and find you the lowest price if you need to get off the road and take a break.
Read the manual
When was the last time you read your car’s safety manual? That’s another overlooked preparation step, Johansen said. Before you head out, take a moment to review the sections of your owner’s manual that cover antilock brakes, traction control, and four- or all-wheel drive (if equipped). This way, you will be aware of the features of your vehicle and how to use it before you need it.
Release the cruise control
While you may be tempted to use car features like speed-maintaining cruise control, Leuchter recommends avoiding cruise control systems because winter conditions can increase the frequency of stops. Instead, manually control the position of your car so that there is more distance — at least three car lengths — between your vehicle and the car in front of you. Also, avoid quick acceleration, aggressive steering and sudden braking, Leuchter said.
Fill the gas tank and other car essentials
Bad weather can cause unexpected delays so it’s important to stay fueled and charged, Johansson said. She recommends keeping your gas tank at least half full and your cellphone charged every time you get out in your car in the winter. Additionally, you’ll want to check that your windshield washer fluid is filled with antifreeze solution to protect your visibility on the road.
Be prepared for slower EV charge speeds
If you drive an electric vehicle, temperatures below 40 degrees Fahrenheit can dramatically reduce charging power by about 36% compared to charging in the 60- to 80-degree range, according to Electrify America. Be sure to plan your charging stops so you’re not caught without power. Try to park indoors in a garage if possible — warmer indoor temperatures can help your battery charge longer in addition to charging faster.
Learn what to do if you start to get stuck
If you’ve ever driven in icy weather, you’ve probably experienced the stomach-churning feeling when your tires connect with the icy road. While hitting a patch of snow and resulting skidding can be nerve-wracking, according to AAA, it’s important to stay calm and resist the urge to slam on the brakes. Instead, decide where you want the car to go and drive in that direction.
Get out and stay warm while you wait for help
If you find yourself stuck in snow or ice and waiting for help, clear the snow from the base of your vehicle, especially around the exhaust pipe, Johansson said. Then, drive in between to keep the interior warm. Don’t forget to open the window about two inches to bring in fresh air.
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