Stay safe and warm behind the wheel
WATCHING snowflakes settle on the windscreen is undeniably magical, but driving in unfamiliar conditions can be challenging. If you’re hitting the road this winter, you should be well-prepared for the weather. Follow these top tips to ensure your winter drive is safe and stress-free.
1. It doesn’t hurt to plan
Always map out your route before you set off. Navigation apps like HereWeGo and Google Maps - both able to function offline - are also useful, especially if you encounter any unexpected road closures due to the weather.
For example, when driving in certain regions in Norway, visitors will find that some of the country’s most famous routes, such as the Trollstigen mountain pass and Gamle Strynefjellsvegen, will occasionally close, as it’s hard to keep them free from snow.
2. Be mindful about the vehicle you choose If you’re thinking of heading off on a winter road trip or going skiing this year, you’ll want to choose your vehicle wisely. When hiring a car in such climates, make sure the type of car is suitable for the adverse conditions - a fourwheel car with high road clearance is ideal if you come into contact with thick snow or ice. If you’re travelling with additional luggage, such as sporting equipment, it’s worth assessing the size of vehicle you’ll need - and it’s important to shop around in advance for a competitive price. What’s more, upgrading the size of your vehicle doesn’t always have to break the bank.
3. Take the right gear When hiring a car over winter, you’ll often see the term ‘winterisation’ being used. It applies to the addition of winter tyres, snow chains or snow socks to the car, which help to keep the driver and passengers safe. In Iceland, for example, there is a mandatory requirement for vehicles to have winterised tyres, usually between November 1 and April 14.
In your own car, make sure you have essentials such as blankets, ice scraper and anti-freeze.
4. Check your breakdown cover
It’s worth checking the roadside rescue cover that you have. If you’re renting, check what level of cover the rental company provides and find out what you should do in the event of a breakdown. Whether or not you have to pay to be rescued depends on whether roadside assistance was included in your final cost at the time of booking.
5. Keep tabs on the weather
Keep your eye on the weather