Essential Tips for Winter Road Trips

With winter just around the corner, you may be planning to take a road trip. You may want to travel for a family Christmas celebration or maybe for a mini break over the New Year celebrations. 

Winterise your car: Essential tips for winter road trips

Wherever you choose to go, you need to make sure your car is in good working order to keep you safe. From checking your fluids and tyres to making sure you have an emergency car kit, read on for tips to winterise your car. 

Check your tyres: Winter-ready traction

Wintry conditions can often result in icy or wet roads, so your tyres are an integral part of your car. In the days before you set off, check for any issues such as cracks, splits or bulges. 

You should also check your tyre depth. The legal minimum is 1.6mm but it is recommended that you have at least 3mm in winter to help your tyres grip the road. 

If you notice any issues, be sure to book in with professionals. If you are tight for time, why not book a tyre check on your route? You may be able to book with tyre fitters in Daventry as you drive through, for example. 

Inspect fluids: Keep your car running smoothly

All car owners will know that cars require different fluids to run smoothly. Planning for fuel along your route is helpful, especially if you need rest breaks. If you are setting off early, fill your car up the day before for convenience. 

Take some time to give your washer fluid and engine oil a check too. Again, it is recommended that you do this before you set off in case you need professional help. 

Battery and brakes: Prevent winter failures

Braking in wintry conditions feels different compared to dry, warmer ones. Your braking distances will be longer due to the temperature and road conditions, so it is imperative that you have working brakes. Make sure the brake pedal doesn’t touch the floor when you press it down and be aware of any grinding noises.

Being stranded without a battery in your car could turn into a real emergency. Your safest bet is to get it tested at a garage as you really don’t want to break down in the cold. If your battery is over four years old you should get it checked anyway as that may be the end of its natural life. 

Essential winter gear: Prepare for emergencies

In the event of an emergency in the cold, having an essentials kit in your car is incredibly useful. Modern phones can pretty much do anything, but if you are stranded without a signal or a charged phone then you need alternatives. Make sure you have an in-car charger as well as a physical map book. This will help you navigate your way to familiar roads if you get lost. 

Warm blankets are a must if you get stranded. You could also think about packing warm layers for each car traveller as well to prevent medical emergencies such as hypothermia. 

Snacks are a road trip staple anyway, but make sure you pack extra non-perishables in the event you get stuck. Think about high-energy foods such as protein bars, cereal bars and dried fruit. You may also want to pack a thermos for warm drinks as well – fill it with water and take teabags, coffee and hot chocolate powder separately to accommodate different people.