When driving around town, icy Winter conditions bring enough driving challenges but if you are about to embark on a longer trip, it’s a good idea to buckle up and follow these tips.
For safe travel this season, SheKnows UK shares our top winter travel tips to simplify your holiday.
1. Be prepared and know where you are going.
Sounds simple? Then you would be surprised at the amount of people who set out on a journey without an adequate supply of items that will help them get through every eventuality.
Here’s an incomplete list of items you might like to pack in the boot of your car:
- Coat, hat and gloves, a pair of tights and a fleece blanket
- Jump cables
- First Aid kit
- A selection of protein bars
- Hand sanitizer
- Sunscreen [yes, even in the depths of Winter]
- Fully charged cell phone
- A shovel
- An old piece of carpet
- A supply of drinking water
- Battery charger
- Torch
- A brightly colored square of cloth
- Maps and an atlas
Now you have your car packed up, it’s a good idea to pay attention to weather reports and decide whether or not it is really safe to proceed with your journey. If you do decide to go ahead, let friends or relatives know your planned route and expected time of arrival at your destination.
2. Inflate and fuel up.
Your tyres are more prone to deflate in Winter weather and with a legal minimum tread of 3mm during this season; you will be more effective at clearing water. Set out with a full tank – it’s one less thing to worry about.
3. Screenwash – Keep it topped up.
It’s also a good idea to soak a cloth in washing up liquid and leave it to dry. This will be used to de-mist your windows.
4. Drive Slowly in Snow.
In snowy conditions it can take 8 to 10 seconds to come to a complete stop. When approaching a hill, gain speed on the flat surface before attempting to go up the hill and avoid stopping mid-climb at all costs.
If the worst happens and you do break down in snowy conditions, stay in your car. Run your engine and heater to keep the chill at bay. You will be glad you packed your emergency supplies in the boot of your car.
In extreme conditions, get out of the car and wrap the brightly coloured cloth to your aerial then check your exhaust pipe to ensure it is clear of snow and debris. This important step will prevent carbon monoxide from leaking into the passenger compartment. Bring your supplies into the passenger area and wrap up warmly while waiting on assistance.
You did remember to bring your breakdown coverage card?
Related Links
Preparing your emergency car kit for winter
Tricks to defrost your windshield in a hurry
Winter car seat mistakes you might be making
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