Winter vacation: Tips to stay safe while travelling

Here are some useful tips to stay safe while travelling during winter. These essential tips will ensure a safe and enjoyable winter vacation. From road safety and weather forecast to right winter wear and reliable transportation, everything needs to be kept in mind while prepping yourself for winter travel.

This is the time of the year when most of us would be planning our winter vacations. Some of us have comfortable and cosy holidays in mind, and some are looking up adventurous ones. No matter which tribe of travellers you belong to, it’s true for all that we need to be mindful of certain things for a safe travel experience. Here are some useful tips to stay safe while travelling during winter. These essential tips will ensure a safe and enjoyable winter vacation.

Check the weather forecast: First and foremost – Always check the weather forecast. With winters, we never know when the weather will turn for the worst. Before you embark on your journey, stay updated on the weather conditions for your destination. If you are going to higher altitude destinations where snowfall is a possibility, it’s always wise to check for possible snowstorms. Those are not fun. Yes, we know snow is great. So is safety.

1. Check local road conditions: Most of the time, in case of heavy snowfall, some roads get cut off temporarily. You do not want to get stuck in those situations. Also, be mindful of icy roads. You may want to call the hotel ahead to enquire about the current road condition.

2. Prepare your vehicle: If you’re driving to your destination, make sure your vehicle is winter-ready. In case of snowy destinations, equip your vehicle with snow tires, and carry essentials like an ice scraper, snow shovel, and jumper cables.

3. Pack emergency supplies: An emergency kit in your car is a must, be it during winter or any other time of the year. It’s always smart to include items such as blankets, extra (warm) clothing, non-perishable snacks, a flashlight, a first aid kit, and necessary medications.

4. Keep someone informed: It could be family or friends. It’s always good to keep someone informed about your travel plans. Share your itinerary, accommodation details, travel details in case you are taking flight/bus/train/cab.

5. Dress appropriately and comfortably: Dress to stay warm. Always remember, while travelling, comfort comes before style. Hypothermia and frostbite are no joke, and you don’t want to experience these when out and about.

6. Use reliable transportation: If you are taking public transportation like bus/train/flight, make sure they are reliable and follow safety regulations. Delays are expected, so make sure your choice for transportation has proper weather-related policies in place for passengers.

7. Stay hydrated and eat well: Did you know that cold weather can also dehydrate you? Since it is cold, we may not want or remember to drink enough water. That can’t happen. Make sure you drink plenty of water. Carry healthy snacks around to keep your energy levels up.