A week or so before you’re due to head out, schedule your car for a winterizing appointment with your dealership or mechanic. Have them check fluids, tires, lights, wipers, brakes, and your battery.
You also want to make sure that your car is well-stocked in case of a winter road emergency. Besides the typical car kit of flashlight, spare tire, tire jack, flares, lantern, and jumper cables, your winter car kit needs some extras.
If you’ve ever tried to get across town during the first snowfall of the season, you know that winter driving uses a completely different set of skills than driving on dry roads. Brush up on what you need to do in the event that your car hits black ice, or when you have low visibility, well before you head out.
Winter road trips require some extra planning and extra entertainment for the young ones. Here are a few tips: - Get a power inverter. - Pack new toys, games, or books. - Stock up on snacks. - Plan stops.
If you get ready to head out after a snowstorm, be sure to clear your car completely of snow and ice – Not just the windows.