What to Pack for a Winter Road Trip

“Over the river and through the woods…”

Most people don’t look forward to traveling during the winter months, but it’s common to convene at a family member’s home for holidays. That means you’ll probably be taking at least one road trip this winter.

Ensuring that you have the right supplies can give you better peace of mind and help you stay safe if anything goes wrong. Here are the essentials you need before you leave on your winter road trip.

The Essentials: Gas, Charger, Phone

You never want to leave for a road trip in winter without the essentials. So first, make sure you have a full tank of gas before you leave. It’s also a good idea to fill up more often than you usually might — when you get to a half tank, start looking for a gas station. You don’t want to run out of fuel in the winter!

Next, double-check to make sure you have your phone and a phone charger. That will help you navigate and give you a way to call for help if you get stranded.

Of course, you’ll want to make sure you have affordable car insurance from a company like Freeway Insurance, and then you’ll be ready to hit the road!

In Case of Emergency: Battery Pack, Sand, Flashlight

If you get stranded in the middle of winter, you want to have the right equipment so you can get going again. It’s a good idea to have a battery pack car jumper, so you don’t have to rely on another motorist to jump-start your car.

If you get stuck in the snow, having a shovel and some sand or kitty litter can help get you moving again. Tire chains are another good idea. These can ensure you aren’t in a dangerous situation for hours on end. Getting back on the road keeps you moving toward your destination.

Finally, if you get stuck at night or have to change a tire, a flashlight with new batteries can be a lifesaver. You may also decide to pack flares in case you need to signal for help.

Stay Warm and Safe: Blankets, First Aid, and Sunglasses

You might think of sunglasses as a summer need, but they are even more important in the winter. The sunshine bouncing off the snow can blind you, leading to a serious accident. Make sure you wear sunglasses as you drive on a snowy day!

If you do need to spend time in your car awaiting help, it’s important to stay warm. Blankets are a great start, and you can add in hot packs or hand warmers to get an extra dose of warmth as needed. If you’re traveling with someone else, snuggle together for warmth until help arrives.

Finally, in case someone is injured during your road trip, be sure to carry a first-aid kit. From simple adhesive bandages to a life-saving tourniquet, having the supplies you need helps you stay safe as you travel.

Drive Safely on Your Road Trip!

Hopefully, your road trip will be uneventful, and you won’t need any emergency supplies. However, it pays to be prepared.

As long as you take it slow and plan for shorter driving days, you should have fun on your winter road trip!