While snow may be one of the highlights of winter, wet roads and ice can make for dangerous driving conditions. Cold temperatures and slick roads can wreak havoc on vehicles, making even a short commute across town a hazardous trip.

Before you step into the driver’s seat this winter, pay special attention to the safety of your vehicle and consider these tips from the experts at your local Discount Tire to ensure you’re ready to hit the road.

Install Winter Tires

Built for the cold and designed for better traction in winter conditions when temperatures drop below 45 F, winter tires can provide better traction on slippery, wet and icy roads, which can lead to striking curbs and other objects that scratch, dent and scuff wheels. Changing wheels and tires each season can ensure you have the best traction possible and protect summer or all-season wheels from the harsh effects of snow, ice and road-clearing chemicals like salt.

Keep Traction on Winter Roads

Tread depth determines a vehicle’s safe stopping distance, which is vital during winter weather when all-season tires can take an average of 110 feet to stop at 30 miles per hour compared to 81 feet in the same conditions for winter tires. You can check the tread depth by sticking a penny upside-down in a tread groove – it’s time to replace your tires if President Lincoln’s head is visible.

Check Tire Pressure

Tires lose air due to impacts and pressure of bumps and turns. Colder temperatures can also impact air pressure. For every 10-degree drop in ambient temperature, tires lose one pound of pressure (PSI). At least once a month, especially before long trips, check the pressure in your tires or stop by a Discount Tire location. Low pressure can lead to poor handling and gas mileage, excessive wear and overloading. Keep a tire pressure gauge in your vehicle to ensure each tire is filled to the manufacturer’s recommended inflation level and add air as necessary.

Update Your Wiper Blades

In cold and icy winter weather, wiper blades can stiffen and become damaged. While your wiper blades’ lifespan will vary based on where you live and the weather you deal with, experts recommend replacing them every six months. If your wiper blades squeak or leave streaks on your windshield, it’s time to replace them.

Know the Age of Your Tires

The older a tire, the higher its risk for failure. As tires age, the rubber becomes harder and brittle, losing elasticity and strength. Check the DOT number stamped on your tires’ sidewalls to see if it’s time for replacement. If you’re not sure what tires are right for your vehicle, a tool like Treadwell allows you to easily input vehicle information and driving habits to receive a personalized recommendation.

Rotate Tires Often

Regular tire rotations help ensure proper traction. Tires should be rotated every 6,000 miles, or earlier if uneven wear develops. One easy way to remember: Have your tires rotated every other time you have your oil changed.

Check for a Spare Tire

Many newer vehicles have replaced spare tires with tire inflation kits that include puncture-coating sealants and air compressors or run-flat tires. Check to see what your vehicle has and consider adding a roadside assistance plan in case you experience any issues during inclement weather.

The majestic Himalayas, with their snow-capped peaks, serene valleys, and vibrant cultures, beckon adventurers from around the world. Planning a dream trip to this breathtaking region requires careful consideration and preparation. Here’s a helpful guide to ensure that you make the most of your Himalayan adventure:

Your objectives

Identify your primary interests, whether it’s trekking, spiritual exploration, cultural immersion, or a combination. Set clear goals for your trip, whether it’s reaching a specific summit, visiting ancient monasteries, or simply experiencing the tranquillity of the mountains.

Choose the right time

Research the seasons in the Himalayas as weather conditions vary significantly. Consider factors like temperature, rainfall, and visibility based on your planned activities. For trekking, the pre- and post-monsoon seasons are usually ideal.

Selecting the destination

Research different regions, such as Nepal, Bhutan, India, or Tibet, based on your preferences and the experiences they offer. Consider the type of trekking trails, cultural attractions, and accessibility of each destination.

Plan your itinerary

Break down your trip into key segments, allocating time for trekking, sightseeing, and relaxation. Ensure your itinerary allows for acclimatisation, especially if you’ll be at high altitudes.

Budget wisely

Create a detailed budget covering flights, accommodation, permits, guided tours, meals, and miscellaneous expenses. Factor in unexpected costs and consider travel insurance to protect against unforeseen circumstances.

Secure necessary permits

Research and obtain the required permits for specific regions or activities. Each Himalayan country has its own regulations. Stay informed about any changes in permit requirements and make photocopies to carry with you.

Pack strategically

Pack according to the activities planned, including trekking gear, appropriate clothing, and essentials such as a first aid kit, water purification tablets, and a high-altitude sickness remedy. Keep in mind weight restrictions for internal flights and the need for layering due to varying temperatures.

Health and fitness

Schedule a pre-trip medical check-up, considering vaccinations, altitude-related concerns, and general fitness. Start a fitness regimen well in advance, focusing on cardiovascular exercises and strength training to cope with the physical demands of high-altitude trekking.

Accommodation and transportation

Book accommodations in advance, especially during peak seasons. Options range from teahouses during treks to comfortable lodges and hotels in cities. Research transportation options, whether it’s internal flights, buses, or shared jeeps, and plan accordingly.

Cultural sensitivity

Familiarise yourself with the local customs, traditions, and etiquettes of the Himalayan communities you’ll be visiting. Respect religious sites and rituals, and be mindful of the impact of tourism on the local environment.

Stay informed about safety

Stay updated on weather conditions, especially if trekking, and be flexible with your plans if needed. Register with your embassy and share your itinerary with someone back home for safety.

Connect with local guides

Hire experienced local guides who understand the terrain, culture, and can enhance your overall experience. Seek recommendations from fellow travellers or online forums to find trustworthy guides.

The season of blankets, quilts and snow is finally here! Well, a number of people must have already planned their winter travel to see the snow and make snowmen! However, travelling during winters requires a lot more preparation than other seasons and we can’t deny this fact.

Be it a snowy adventure or heading to a cold climate for fun, here are 10 tips that will help you travel comfortably and safely in winters.

Know the weather: Before you go on your winter journey, make sure you know about the weather conditions of the place you are visiting. Be aware of potential storms, snowfall, and temperature fluctuations.

Dress in layers: Layering is important while travelling to a cold destination. Add an insulating layer for warmth, and finish with a waterproof or windproof outer layer to shield yourself from rain or snow.

Pack light but right: This should be your winter travel mantra always! Don’t forget to bring essential winter accessories like a durable pair of waterproof boots, thermal gloves, a warm hat, and a scarf. Consider investing in high-quality, insulated jackets to ensure comfort during long hours outdoors.

Keep your feet warm: Cold feet can quickly dampen your winter travel experience. Invest in thermal socks and make sure your boots are both insulated and waterproof. Consider bringing foot warmers for additional heat during extended periods outdoors.

Drink plenty of water: We generally tend to skip drinking water in cold weather. It’s easy to underestimate the need for hydration which is not a good thing to do. The dry winter air can contribute to dehydration, so pack a reusable water bottle and sip regularly.

Mind the icy surfaces: Winter travel often means encountering icy sidewalks and roads. Take caution when walking or driving in these conditions. Wear shoes with good traction, and if you’re driving, equip your vehicle with winter tires.

Plan for shorter days: Winter days are shorter, and darkness falls earlier. Plan your activities accordingly, and be sure to have a reliable light source if you’ll be out after sunset.

Charge your devices: Cold temperatures can drain electronic device batteries faster than usual. Ensure your phone, camera, and other essential devices are fully charged before heading out. Carry a portable charger for emergencies.

Be prepared for delays: Winter weather can lead to transportation delays. Whether you’re flying, driving, or taking public transport, build extra time into your schedule to account for potential delays.

Respect local customs: Be respectful of local customs and conditions at your destination. Some areas may have specific winter safety measures or unique winter activities that you can enjoy. Respecting local guidelines will add to your winter travel experience.

No one ever plans to get scammed, especially in a foreign country, but that’s what happens when you have no idea how shady some locals can be.

If you’ve ever fallen for a travel scam, you’d understand how frustrating it can be to find yourself in such a situation. Of course, no one blames you for it. One would expect the locals of a city to be nice to foreigners as a way of sending a good message about their culture and lifestyle to them.

However, it’s sometimes the other way round. Locals look for ways to take advantage of tourists, and exploit them.

The best way to avoid falling victim of travel scams is to be aware of some of them. That way, you can be on the look out and also avoid some of the tricks.

1) Taxi driver scam

Taxi drivers are like the first set of people you meet as you depart from the airport. Some of them are quick to differentiate strangers from indigenes and like to take advantage of them.

When you get into their ride, some of them will tell you that their meter is broken or that rides are cheaper without the meter. At the end of the day, they end up charging you so much, and you’re not likely to realize this because you have no idea what it should normally be.

To avoid this kind of scam, ensure that their meter is working properly and insist on using it even when they say otherwise.

2) Counterfeit money scam

This is another common scams used by taxi drivers or employees at local restaurants. When you make payment for a meal or a ride, they’ll return the money back to you, claiming its counterfeit, and ask for a different payment type.

What you may not know is that you probably gave them original notes but while you weren’t looking, they swapped it for a counterfeit note and handed it back to you as fake money.

A piece of advise here is to always pay attention when you’re making payment. Also, be sure to change money at the bank or hotel to avoid counterfeit money situations.

3) Group photo offer

You know how you sometimes approach strangers asking them to kindly take a photo of you and your friends using your phone or camera? Well, this trick is sometimes used by locals to steal foreigners phone and camera.

They offer to help take a picture of the group, and before you realize what’s happening, they’ve taken off with it. So, rather than give your camera to anyone who offers, choose carefully who to give it to.

Also, be mindful of the environment. Avoid doing such in crowded places, where people can easily get mixed up in the crowd.

4) Attraction is closed scam

This travel scam is another common scam to get tourists to spend more money. Some friendly locals might approach to tell you that the attraction is closed because of religious ceremonies, holidays and the likes.

They’ll offer to take you or show you other attractions close by where you’ll be spending much more. What you don’t know is that they might be getting some huge commission from bringing more people to the alternative attraction.

Also, the attraction you intended to go to in the first place may not be closed. You probably approached the building from the wrong side.

To avoid this scam, always verify the words of locals by confirming with as many people and also head to the ticket counter to verify certain information.

This trick is also used by taxi drivers when you just get into town. They may tell you that the hotel you are going to is closed or overbooked and offer to take you to another. Once again, be sure to verify by yourself before making a decision based on the local’s recommendation.