It's a common thought that many people have: Once winter arrives, road trips are over. Between inclement weather and cold temperatures, road trips aren't nearly as popular during the cold-weather months as they are during those bright, sunny days. The lack of daylight is also a contributing factor when it comes to many people opting out of road trips, but it shouldn't - trips during those long winter months can be the best thing for a person's mental health.
There are ways to do a winter road trip, and then there are ways to do a winter road trip safely. It might take a bit more planning in order to have a successful and smooth trip but it's worth it because the sights travelers will see are truly breathtaking at certain times during the winter. Even more so, there's nothing like cozying up in a cabin or chalet with a view of snow-covered mountains or a frozen lake.
First Things First, Choose A Means Of Travel
There are several options here. The first is to take your own car which is what most travelers opt for, for comfort and convenience among other reasons. The second is to rent a car which is a solid choice should one's car not be in proper condition in order to take a road trip. And the third is to rent an RV or similar vehicle which also eliminates two potential problems: Using one's own car as well as finding accommodations. However, for the sake of popularity, this article will focus mainly on what to do should a person be driving their own or a rented vehicle.
Choosing the best method of travel involves weighing both budgeting options as well as the destination. Are you traveling somewhere where an RV can easily be parked, such as a campsite? Or are you renting a cabin or home, somewhere a car can easily be used as transportation? Additionally, how long is the trip and would it be more comfortable with an RV? These are the questions that should be asked prior to leaving.
Check The Weather, And Then Check It Again
The weather can change in an instant and especially at higher altitudes, it's so important to stay on top of the weather. The last thing anyone wants to do is to get stuck in a winter storm that's crossing paths with their route.
Furthermore, being snowed in might sound like the perfect vacation but not when one day becomes three, and food sources, as well as cell phone signal and potentially electricity, begin to dwindle.
Ensure That Your Vehicle Is Good To Go
Checking one's vehicle is more than just making sure that when you turn the key, it starts. A car should be brought to a mechanic to be thoroughly checked out and certain key winter parts, such as snow tires, should be considered for particularly winter storm-prone destinations. It's better to be safe rather than sorry, especially when all you're relying on is your own vehicle and its ability to run.
This also means checking anything that was recently fixed or could be a problem, such as a headlight, replacing the brakes, and making sure that all the fluid levels are where they should be. Many times, people don't even realize when something is wrong with their cars until they begin to make noises or drive in a way that's out of the norm. By having vehicles checked beforehand, travelers will save themselves plenty of stress while on a vacation that they're meant to be relaxing on.
Be Sure To Have Winter Essentials Ready, Including Emergency Kits
First and foremost, winter emergency essentials are necessary. This means having salt at the ready, a snow shovel for digging out of sticky situations, and cat litter to provide traction in the event that a car becomes stuck. Roadside flares and first-aid kits are also great things to have in the car.
In terms of regular essentials, consider going shopping for food prior to leaving on a trip. During the pandemic, this will prevent travelers from exposing themselves further to other states' stores and populations (always check out-of-state travel requirements and comply with CDC guidelines. If travel is restricted in your state or another, do not travel). During non-pandemic times, this will prevent travelers from needing to go out in inclement weather to get supplies when restaurants or grocery stores might not be an option.