How to Travel in Snowy Weather

Travel in the snow takes preparation and effort.

Travel during winter months takes more effort than simply deciding what clothes to pack. It takes careful planning and preparation to make sure you reach your destination safely. Snowy weather slows down any travel by car, as snow and ice covers roads, making them dangerous. Air, train and bus travel requires finding out if there are transportation delays or cancellations. Planning for travel in snowy weather will save you headaches.

Instructions

Car Travel

1. 

   You need to be careful while driving on snowy roads.

   Stay put, do not drive unless absolutely necessary during heavy snow. Watch weather reports and plan accordingly.

2. 

   Packing warm clothes and boots in case of a stall is a must.

   Pack warm clothes, flashlights, water, food, blankets, first aid kit, ice scraper and jumper cables. These will come in handy if the car stalls or gets stuck in the snow.

3. 

   Your car needs snow tires with good tread in the winter.

   Check that your car is in good working condition. Make sure it has snow tires with sufficient tread. Clear your windows and mirrors and keep them free of mist.

4. 

   Drive carefully, keeping a safe distance.

   Drive carefully, keeping your speed down on snowy and icy roads. Keep a safe distance from other cars and take special care when passing. Prepare for sudden road changes over short distances.

Airplane, Bus and Train Travel

1. 

   Check before leaving your home for delays and cancellations.

   Check to make sure your plane is on time and the flight hasn't been cancelled. Attempt to avoid this by booking your flight during the warmest time of day, between 11 a.m. and 5 p.m.

2. 

   Have something to keep you busy in case of delays.

   Pack reading materials, computer devices, business materials and anything else to keep you occupied in case of delays. Expect up to 60-minute delays in snowy weather for de-icing or even cancellations in extremely bad weather.

3. 

   Check online for train or bus delays and cancellations.

   Check before leaving your home for any delays or cancellations. Most coach buses and train services have online schedule information.

4. 

   Pack emergency supplies in case the bus or train becomes stranded.

   Pack warm clothes, boots, snack food and drinks, flashlight and batteries in case the train or bus becomes stranded.

5. 

   Expect long waits in snowy weather for your train or bus.

   Expect delays in extremely snowy weather and prepare for a long wait, if not cancellations.

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Tips & Warnings

• Allow yourself plenty of time to reach your destination.

• Plan for airplane connection problems during winter storms.

• Leave early for the airport, train and bus stations to avoid rushing on snow covered roads.

• Do not pass a snowplow unless you absolutely need to and then only if the road is clear.

• Do not travel alone in bad weather and let people know your route.

References

• United States Department of Agriculture: Natural Hazard: Snowy Roads
• Directgov: Driving in adverse weather conditions
• CNN: Strategies for winter air travel: When you have to travel where the sun doesn't shine, Ed Hewitt

Resources

• MSNBC.com: Tips for winter travel