Every winter the US roadways experience a surge in traffic as sports enthusiasts, students and snowboards drive around the country to temporarily nest in warmer climes. Winter travel can be fun but it is important that you be extra cautious when driving around in snow and icy conditions. Here are a few tips to consider when traveling during the cold season.
If you will be driving, get your car checked out. The last thing you want to have happen is to have your car break down and to get stranded in the middle of a snowstorm. Make sure all the fluid levels are at manufacturer’s specifications, inspect the tires for proper inflation and tread depth, and have the battery checked. If it’s been awhile since your last tune up, have that done before you hit the road. Also, signing up for roadside assistance is a good idea.
Although most towns work hard to keep the roads clear, it is important that you learn how to drive in snow. You just never know when you might get caught in a storm. Particularly important is knowing how to recover from a skid. If your car is going one way, you want to gently turn in the opposite direction until the car straightens out. Avoid using your brake as this could make the skid worse.
Plan out the route you are going to drive and then use weather tracking tools online to check weather conditions. You want to be aware of the weather is doing your entire trip from start to finish. As a precaution, give a copy of your planned route of travel to a trusted friend. If you do not make it to your destination, then the search party will have an idea as to where to start looking for you.
Don’t leave home without a travel kit. Your travel pack should have a basic first aid kit, a flashlight with extra batteries, a knife, a compass, a tow rope, jumper cables, kitty litter to help aid traction, ice scraper, water, extra blankets, non-perishable food, matches, portable radio and de-icer. Also, you’ll need to bring your cell phone as well as the charger that comes with it.
Your body requires more nutrition in the winter than it does in the summer. Therefore, always travel on a full stomach. Additionally, keep a day’s worth of food and water in the car just in case you get stranded. Do not put the food supplies in the truck because it could freeze.
You are working harder to get through the snow so take frequent breaks. Try to stop at least once per hour to hour and half so you can stretch your legs and clear your mind. Even a five minute break is enough to refresh you to continue the journey.
Winter travel can be a fun experience as long as you take the proper precautions. Be prepared for the worst but don’t let that detract you from enjoying the journey.
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