The minivan is often the vehicle of choice when it comes to bundling up your loved ones for a trip to see family and friends during the holidays. Unfortunately, nasty winter weather can turn what should be a pleasant journey into a stressful (and potentially dangerous) activity.
In order to help you make your holiday season travels safe and comfortable, I've put together a list of 10 winter traveling tips that you may find helpful.
If you have some winter driving tips of your own, feel free to return to the winter driving tips blog post associated with this article and click on the "comments" link to contribute your suggestions and feedback.
1. Snow Removal
It's an obvious tip, but arguably the most important. If your vehicle has been covered in snow and ice while parked, spend a few extra minutes completely clearing your windows and removing snow and ice from your roof. We've all seen cars driving around during winter months with drivers peering out of tiny peepholes on their mostly covered windshields, which is an accident just waiting to happen.
Clear windows will obviously help you see better (especially important in limited visibility winter conditions) while a clean roof will prevent large clumps of snow and ice from breaking off and striking the vehicle behind you, which could make a dangerous driving situation even more so.
2. Snow Tires and Rims
If you live (or will be traveling through) an area that tends to see substantial amounts of snow and ice during the winter months, you should consider getting snow tires for the season. If you can afford it, I'd recommend purchasing a dedicated snow tire and wheel package, which makes it easy to store your winter tires in the summer months and a snap to switch them in the winter when you need them.
3. Check the Battery
Cold weather always places extra demands on vehicle batteries, so regular checks of your battery are a must. There are several ways to test a battery charge level, and most auto parts stores sell car battery testers for less than $20.
4. Slow Down, Drive Smoothly
Most modern minivans are equipped with a full suite of extra safety features, from anti-lock brakes to traction control and stability control. While these features can help in a pinch, they can't take the place of driving slowly and cautiously in slippery winter weather conditions. Slowing down and driving smoothly will give you better vehicle control and more time to react to dangerous situations.
5. Check and Fill Fluids
Before you take that big winter road trip, it's always a good idea to check the following vehicle fluid levels:
- motor oil
- antifreeze
- brake fluid
- power steering fluid
- washer fluid
- transmission fluid
6. Pack Extra Supplies
It's always a good idea to pack a first aid kit in your vehicle. It makes even more sense to pack some blankets and some extra food and water during winter months as well. If you ever get stuck, having those blankets and some extra food/water will help keep you and your loved ones warm and comfortable until help arrives. A cell phone (with a spare battery and car charger) is a must for winter travel as well.
7. Using Tire Chains
Some locations have especially severe winters, and the use of tire chains is sometimes a must. Be sure you know how to install the chains properly on your minivan before leaving on any winter trip. Driving with chains usually requires that you limit your speed to under 25-30 mph or less. Tire chain usage guidelines can vary by location, so check with your local state department of transportation for more information.
8. Watch for Bridges and Overpasses
Bridges and overpasses freeze faster than other roadways, making them especially dangerous during the winter months. Slow down and drive carefully when crossing them, especially under high wind conditions.
9. Carry an Extra Key
Locking yourself out of your own vehicle is never a feat to be proud of, but doing so in sub-zero weather conditions can be dangerous as well. I always carry an extra car key in my pocket (or in my wallet) during winter months to be on the safe side.
10. Use the Radio
Keep your car radio tuned to local weather stations or the NOAA National Weather Service for updates on winter weather conditions in your area. Learning about upcoming weather changes and road conditions before you encounter them can help make your journey a safe and comfortable one.