Winter Road Trips

Tips For Preparing for a Winter Road Trip

Taking a road trip this winter? Don’t drive off until you go through this checklist.

Hit the open road this winter and feel the crisp air in your lungs as you drive through stunning, snow-covered landscapes. Winter road trips are a magical mix of adventure and tranquillity. Before you set off, a bit of prep can make all the difference. Whether you’re tackling icy mountain roads or gliding through charming snowy towns, our guide has the tips and tricks you need for an epic winter road trip. So, buckle up, grab a hot cocoa, and prepare for the ultimate winter adventure!

A winter road trip is the perfect escape if you’ve been itching to hit the road after being stuck indoors over the holidays. Whether it’s a quick weekend getaway or an epic cross-country trek, ensure you and your car are ready to tackle those snowy roads. Let’s get rolling and enjoy the winter wonderland!

Winter Road Trip Prep: Know Before You Go

Alright, road warriors, before you hit the icy highways, let’s get our bearings straight. First things first, know your destination. Are you venturing into a snow globe of lake-effect snow? What’s Mother Nature got in store for you? Peek at the National Weather Service website for the latest on road conditions, winter weather advisories, and storm watches. And hey, don’t forget to snag a top-notch weather app to keep you in the loop. Stay ahead of the storm, and you’ll cruise through winter wonderland like a pro!

Winter Road Trip Planning: Get your car ready

Check Your Car Battery
Before you hit the winter roads, ensure your battery is in top shape. If it’s over three years old, get it checked. Slow starts, dim lights, or an old battery? Time for a replacement. Batteries last 3-5 years, so if yours is nearing that, have it inspected. Stop by a mechanic to confirm your battery and charging system are good to go. Check for corrosion on terminals and cables, and pack jumper cables—and know how to use them. A little prep can save your road trip from disaster!

Check Your Lights
Alright, adventurers, let’s talk lights before you hit the snowy highways. Winter means early sunsets and long nights, so having your headlights, taillights, brake lights, and turn signals in tip-top shape is non-negotiable. Remember those emergency flashers, too! If you find any burned-out bulbs, swap them out before you set off. And, while you’re at it, toss a working flashlight in your glove box—because who doesn’t love a little extra peace of mind?
Check Your Tires
Quick check before the snowy roads: Tires are key! Ensure they’re properly inflated and have the right tread—less than 2/32 of an inch means it’s time for new ones. When the temperature drops, so does your tire pressure—by about one PSI for every 10 degrees. Underinflated tires can mess with your braking, steering, and overall handling. So, before you hit the snowy roads, check your owner’s manual or the tire info sticker on your driver’s door jamb for the right pressure. Stay safe and enjoy the ride. Snow tires for heavy winter conditions or all-season for lighter snow, just make sure they’re up to the task. Ready, set, go for a smooth winter ride!
Check your wiper blades and fluid levels
If it’s snowed recently, get ready for the salty slush on your windshield. Top off your windshield wiper fluid so you can see clearly. Ensure your wiper blades are streak-free and replace any that aren’t cutting it. Fill your washer reservoir with antifreeze fluid to avoid freezing. Lastly, check your engine coolant/antifreeze to keep your engine from overheating.
Stock an Emergency Kit
Don’t hit the winter roads without a solid emergency kit. Your must-haves: a snow brush/ice scraper combo, a first aid kit, snacks for you and your pet, an ice scraper, basic tools (screwdrivers, pliers, wrench), warning flares, paper towels, water, and an emergency blanket. A little prep keeps you safe and ready for winter’s surprises!
Give Your Car a Checkup
Before you hit those icy roads, give your car a little TLC—think of it as a spa day for your ride! Take your vehicle to a mechanic for a full checkup. This means checking the brakes, drive belts, engine hoses, and all those vital fluids—transmission, brakes, and power steering. A little tune-up can go a long way in ensuring your winter road trip is smooth and safe.
Keep Emergency Numbers Handy
Before you set off on your winter adventure, ensure your phone has all the important numbers—like roadside assistance and local authorities—saved. Don’t forget your car charger; a dead phone is the last thing you need in a pinch. Keep those contacts at your fingertips to stay connected and safe on the road!

Make sure to check our article on Getting your Vehicle Road Trip Ready

What to Pack for Winter Road Trip Safety

Ready for your next winter adventure? The priority for packing for a winter road trip should be what you might need to take care of your car in winter weather. Pack These Essentials for Your Winter Road Trip. Here’s your go-to list for packing the essentials.

Shovel and Gravel
Are you stuck in a snowbank? Your trusty shovel and a bag of grit (sand, pebbles, gravel, or cat litter) are here to save the day! These essentials help your tires grip icy surfaces and add extra weight for stability. With these tools, you’ll be back on the road in no time.
Battery Pack / Jumper Cables
Have you ever been stuck with a dead battery in the middle of nowhere? That’s why a battery pack car jumper is a lifesaver. But hey, if you can’t get one, at least bring jumper cables.
Ice Scraper
Those frosty windows won’t clear themselves. An ice scraper is a must to keep your view unobstructed and remove snow from your tire wells.
Flashlight & Flares
Have car trouble at night? A flashlight is essential to see what you’re doing, and flares signal for help. Headlamps are even better for keeping your hands free. Reflective cones or triangles are also a must.
De-icer Windshield Fluid
Spare windshield fluid is a must- have in every vehicle at any time of year. However, if you are embarking on a winter road trip -make sure you have a bottle on hand that is good for very low temperatures formulated to melt ice & frost fast, down to -27°F.
Spare Tire
Double-check that you have a spare tire and that it’s in good condition. You don’t want to be stuck with a flat and no backup.
Hot Packs
Getting stranded in the cold is no fun. Hot packs are small but mighty, keeping you warm until help arrives.
Pocket Knife / Multi-tool
Whether you need to fix something or open a stubborn snack, a pocketknife or multi-tool is super handy. Toss in some duct tape too—it’s the Swiss Army knife of adhesives.
Tire Chains
Driving over mountain passes or snowy roads? Tire chains can help. Sometimes, they’re even required by law, but they also can be banned.
Automotive Club Membership
If you do not have an automotive club membership (CAA/AAA), get it. You will be glad you did when you need them- if your battery dies, run out of gas, get a flat, etc.

Remember, a well-packed winter roadside safety kit contains many of the items you will need. Pack smart, stay safe, and enjoy your winter road trip!

Car Supplies for a Winter Road Trip

Getting ready for a winter road trip? Here are some must-pack items to keep you comfy and prepared:

Kleenex – For those unexpected sneezes and cleanups.
Wet Wipes/Disinfectant Wipes – Because cleanliness is next to road trip happiness.
Paper Towels – Essential for spills and messes.
First Aid Kit – Just in case of minor injuries.
Hand Sanitizer – A must for quick clean-ups.
Snacks – Pack some energy-boosting, protein-packed goodies.
Insurance Card – Make sure it’s current and in your car.
Roadside Assistance Membership – Ensure your CAA/AAA membership is current.
Road Map – In case your GPS decides to take a nap.
Credit Card & Cash – Because you never know when you’ll need them.
GPS Device – Built-in or separate, make sure you have one.

Make sure to check out my Road Trip Essentials post for more tips.

Staying Warm on a Winter Road Trip

Pack your winter clothing

Just because you’re gearing up for winter doesn’t mean you need to bundle up like an Arctic explorer behind the wheel. Keep your winter essentials—coats, scarves, gloves, boots, and hats—within arm’s reach, but save them for when you step outside.

Those bulky coats can turn your arms into stiff robot limbs, gloves can make the steering wheel feel like a slippery ice rink, and clunky boots might just turn your pedal work into a dance of chaos. For the little ones in car seats, those puffy jackets can make the restraints fit like a loose hug instead of a snug safety harness. So, you can stash your winter gear close by, but keep the layers off until you need to brave the cold.

Must-Haves for Staying Warm on a Winter Road Trip

Alright, adventurers, here’s the lowdown on keeping cozy in case of an emergency:

Blankets: Think wool or Mylar camping blankets. They’re super warm and take up almost no space.
Gloves / Hats / Scarves / Ear Muffs:  Keep those extremities toasty and stylish.
Boots: Warm and waterproof because cold, wet feet are a no-go.
Spare Socks: When your feet get wet (and they will), dry socks are a lifesaver.
Quick Drying Microfiber Towel: Perfect for drying off quickly if you get soaked.

Pack these essentials, and you’ll stay warm and ready for any chilly surprises on your winter road trip.

Food & Water Essentials for Your Winter Road Trip

Alright, road warriors, let’s talk about the MVPs of any winter adventure: food and water. You never know what winter has in store, so it’s best to be prepared.

Snacks —Pack a mix of nutritious goodies along with your favourite road trip junk food. Protein bars are a lifesaver if you get stuck somewhere for a while. The road trip snacks should provide Protein and energy and be shelf stable.
Water – Always have water on hand. Those large plastic gallon jugs are super easy to pack and make sure you stay hydrated.
Reusable Water Bottles – Keep it eco-friendly with reusable water bottles. They’re not just good for the planet, but they also keep your drinks at the right temperature.

Tech & Entertainment Essentials for a Winter Road Trip

When you’re gearing up for a winter road trip, don’t forget the tech and entertainment must-haves—especially if you’re travelling with kids. Here’s what you’ll need:

Cell Phones are a necessity. They’re useful for communication, navigation, and information gathering, and they’re also great for snapping pictures of scenic winter views.
Portable Battery Packs. Keep these fully charged. Solar-powered ones are fantastic for recharging when you’re off the grid.
Charging Cables / USB Plug. Pack extra cords and plugs. You never know when you or a fellow traveller might need to charge. Trust me, I’ve been that stranded stranger!
Multiport DC Plug. Handy for charging multiple devices at once. No more fighting over who gets to charge first!
DVD Player / Tablet. Load up on their favourite movies or games to keep the kids entertained and boredom at bay.
Travel Games. These are perfect for passing the time and making memories.

Pack these essentials, and you’ll be all set for a cozy, fun-filled winter road trip (and in case of an emergency)!

Make sure to check out our Pack Your Tech post for more tips.

Use Extra Care When Driving in the Snow

So, you’re cruising along and suddenly find yourself in a snow squall—don’t panic! Here are some down-to-earth tips to keep you steady on those slippery roads:

Slow and Steady: Snow and ice can turn the road into a skating rink. Reduce your speed to keep control.
Gentle Moves: Accelerate and decelerate slowly. Sudden movements can send you into a skid.
Keep Your Distance: Increase your following distance to about five or six seconds. You’ll need that extra space to stop safely.
Brake with Care: Keep your heel on the floor and apply firm, steady pressure when you brake. This will help prevent your wheels from locking up.
Tackle Hills Wisely: Avoid stopping when driving uphill. It can be challenging to get moving again on ice. But don’t floor it, either; steady gas is the way to go.
Clear Vision: Make sure all your windows are snow-free before you start driving. Visibility is key!

When planning a Winter Road Trip, pack smart, drive safe, and let the snow-covered roads lead you to unforgettable adventures!

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