Winter Travel Tips

December 30th, 2012  |  Insurance

Every year winter seems to sneak up on us, even though we know it is coming. But, before it rears its ugly head, drivers need to be ready for the winter driving season by getting your car in condition to handle winter travel.

Before you embark on any winter driving tips, you need to get your car in order. Here is what you need to do:

• Take your car in for its winter maintenance: Getting an oil change, changing your fluids, and performing regular maintenance on your vehicle will reduce the chances of your car breaking down when travelling in the winter.
• Install your winter tires: Take your car in to get your winter tires installed. If you don’t have winter tires, consider purchasing a set.
• Replace your wipers:  Replacing your wipers each season before the winter is the best time to do it. Wipers that work correctly will ensure that you have good visibility during the winter months.

7 Winter Travel Tips to make your trip a pleasant one

A well maintained vehicle is the first step to successful winter driving. The second step is to understand how to drive during the winter to make your winter travel as easy as possible. Here are a number of effective tips for successful winter travel:

1. Plan your route: Plan your route, enter it into your GPS, and tell your friends and family the route you are planning on taking. This way, if anything happens, they will have a good idea where you are located and can send help your way.  Also, make sure you have all your travel documents and car insurance with you for the trip.
2. Travel during off peak hours: It is best to travel when there are the least amount of vehicles on the road. If possible, travel during off peak hours. This way you can avoid traffic and reduce the amount of time you will spend on the road.
3. Keep your energy level up: When driving long distances it is important to keep your energy levels up. And, this doesn’t mean drinking large amounts of coffee. Make sure you pack some water and a couple healthy snacks for your trip. This will also save you the cost of having to buy food at rest stops.
4. Check the weather conditions: Always check the weather conditions before you leave for your trip. And, if necessary, adjust your travel plans accordingly if the weather is not ideal for driving.
5. Plan for the unexpected: Always give yourself some buffer time when travelling during the winter. You never know when the weather could take a turn for the worse or when you could be delayed because of an accident.
6. Take frequent breaks: Driving during the winter is stressful. With poor road conditions and unpredictable weather, driving can take a mental toll on you. This is why it is important to take a break from driving every 2 -3 hours if you are driving long distances. This will give you time to stretch your legs and clear your head.
7. Don’t forget your emergency kit: Always travel with an emergency kit during the winter. You never know what could happen and being prepared could be the difference between life and death.

Driving during the winter can be difficult. Following these tips will make your trip safe and more enjoyable.