Traveling during the winter holidays can oftentimes be dangerous and stressful. Not only are
the airports crowded,
the roadways can be just as bad. Weather conditions are important to follow because snow, ice, and rain can make for unpleasant traveling if you are not prepared.
Here are several tips to help prepare for your upcoming winter holiday travel trips.
Check weather and road condition updates
This is probably one of the most important to follow. Preparing for holiday travel this winter includes
understanding the weather and road conditions you may be facing on your journey. Following your local news stations will often provide weather and winter advisories for travel. If road conditions are inadequate and storms are approaching, it is always safest to wait till the roads are clear and the weather has passed. Checking for road updates is also a key factor in deciding to travel. Such updates will provide.
Road closures, car accidents, and chain control areas. When traveling, we use the Caltrans Quick Maps mobile application. Please visit or call 1-800-427-ROAD (7623). It is always important to watch for flashing road signs while driving to advise for conditions. Being updated in advance is the most important because poor road conditions, such as snow and ice can lead to road closures. Depending on the location, road closures can stop freeway traffic for several miles in both directions. Making sure to have a full gas tank and food/water will help if you happen to be stopped for an extended period of time. Having the knowledge of what to expect on your journey is key when traveling during this winter holiday season.
Make sure your vehicle is rated for winter conditions.
Depending on if you are driving through higher elevations, such as Lake Tahoe or the Sierras, it is important to make sure your vehicle is equipped for rain and snow conditions. Most vehicles on the road are 2-wheel drive.
e only. Having a vehicle that is rated for snow and rain will assist with these types of occasions. It is always recommended to have an all-wheel-drive or 4×4 vehicle if you might encounter bad road conditions on your trip. If you are unable to use the recommended vehicles such as an all-wheel drive, we would suggest purchasing a set of chains specific to your vehicle prior to your journey. Having a set of chains will come in handy if road conditions change and chains become required for travelers. As referenced above, the Caltrans Quick Maps will indicate all chain-required locations for your trip.
Make sure your tires are adequate for slippery conditions.
It is always recommended to have proper traction when traveling through slippery conditions. Being prepared for winter road conditions also includes checking tire tread. If you are unfamiliar with tire tread depths, we would advise you to visit a local tire shop to see if your tires are sufficient for winter travel. Oftentimes, a quick measurement will indicate if your tires will be ok for slippery road conditions. If winter travel is a priority, it is best to have a complete snow-rated set of tires. Although all-season tires will work properly, a great set of snow-rated or winter tires are the most effective when driving in slippery conditions. If your vehicle is not an all-wheel-drive or 4×4, we suggest carrying a set of snow chains for your vehicle. Snow chains can be purchased at your local auto parts store. Often times snow can accumulate on the road and drivers will be required to have chains unless their vehicle is an all-wheel drive. Having purchased the chains in advance will save loads of money. People will often charge two to three times higher for chains and installation on the side of freeways before chain control areas. Having chains is just another piece of preparation for winter travel.