After a slow pandemic phase, 2022 was a big year for travel buffs. Besides summer vacations, the year witnessed a surge in winter travel. A drop in fuel prices made road trips the best option for Americans in 2022.
Not surprisingly, surveys suggested that 102 million people wanted to drive to their destinations rather than flying down. The actual numbers were even bigger.
Winter road travel is an alluring idea, considering it offers the freedom to choose your route and the flexibility to change it on a whim. Cost-effectiveness is another good reason to drive long distances. Moreover, nothing sounds better than enjoying the stunning snow-clad views as you drive to your destination.
But road trips at this time of the year are fraught with challenges, from unpredictable weather to traffic congestion, low visibility, and accident risks. Vehicle breakdowns are also more common due to the freezing conditions. You cannot do much about the weather and traffic, but you can surely ensure that your vehicle is road-ready.
Follow these tips to prepare your car for a winter road trip.
Prioritize Vehicle Maintenance and Winterization
Regular car maintenance keeps it performing well on the road. Experts recommend scheduled maintenance every 500 miles, but you should get a complete check every time before hitting the road for a long drive. That’s a given, regardless of the weather. A mechanic should ensure that everything is in place, from engine oil to lights, brakes, wheel alignment, and battery.
Besides a comprehensive maintenance check, you must invest in vehicle winterization to avoid unexpected breakdowns due to the freezing weather. Here are the steps to equip your car for the harsh conditions:
- Check the heater and defroster to ensure they are working properly
- Install winter wiper blades for better visibility
- Inspect car lights and replace them if needed
- Pay attention to brakes and get them serviced if necessary
- Fill the gas tank to prevent the fuel from freezing
- Consider replacing the battery if it is old or weak
Remember to carry a set of snow cables or tire chains if you plan to travel during snowy days or along icy roads. Also, learn a few basic skills to handle unexpected breakdowns in the middle of nowhere. Help may not be available, so you should know how to get your car started if something goes wrong.
Invest in a Sturdy Rooftop Carrier
Vacation packing checklists are longer as you need to carry essentials like warm clothing and blankets besides the basics. You may even want to bring along outdoor equipment if you are a camping buff. Investing in a sturdy rooftop carrier is another valuable tip to get your car road-ready for a winter trip.
The car rooftop cargo–RoofPax combo kit is an all-in-one solution with an expandable cargo and rustproof rack with raised side rails. The product offers added storage space for your expeditions, and its weatherproof material makes it ideal for combating winter rain and snow.
Reliable vehicle accessories can make your road trips comfortable and hassle-free. Rooftop bags and carriers free up lots of space in your boot and let you bring along everything you need without worrying about fitting things in.
Check Your Tires
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Association, higher-graded tires allow a vehicle to stop on a wet road surface in a shorter distance than lower-grade tires. Your tires should be in good condition to ensure safety on the icy and slippery roads.
Start by checking tire tread depth as it determines a good grip on slippery roads. You may consider switching to winter tires for the trip. Department of Transportation statistics show that 24% of weather-related car crashes occur on snowy roads, and 15% happen during snowfall. Winter tires can lower the risk, making them a wise investment for road trip enthusiasts.
In addition to ensuring proper tire tread, you should inflate them to correct pressure. With temperatures plummeting in cold weather, tire pressure can drop below the danger levels. Before leaving for the trip, ensure that all tires (including the spare) are inflated according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Summing Up
Winter road trips in the snowy weather are not for the faint of heart. But they promise an incredible experience, making them a hot favorite among adventure-loving Americans. Whether you plan to drive solo, travel with your gang, or embark on a family adventure, you should be ready for a thrilling journey.
Most importantly, your vehicle should be prepared for the rigors of the road and weather. This actionable checklist sets you up for an exciting and safe road trip to your favorite destination.
