Weindependently evaluateall of our recommendations.
If you press links we provide, we may receive compensation.
From phone mounts to ice scrapers, these are the essentials to help you stay safe on the road.
Credit:Travel & Leisure
As a longtime Bay Area resident, I’ve taken many road trips toLake Tahoeduring ski season.
I find that a well-tested packing plan simplifies my Friday night escapes for weekend getaways.
A warmdown jacketand snow boots with solid traction (for menorfor women) can make all the difference.
Credit: Amazon
The cherry on top?
They come with their own paracord leash and custom roll-top buckle pouch with a built-in microfiber cloth.
The top is dishwasher safe, but you’ll have to wash the painted stainless steel mug by hand.
Credit: Smith
This dual sided hand warmer from Ocoopa was our favorite out of all therechargeable ones we tested.
It heats up instantly and can hold a charge as long as four hours on the lowest setting.
Well, this rechargeable flashlight from Nitecore topped our list as thebest overall out of the 16 we tested.
Credit: Travel + Leisure/Jackie Cucco
We love it for its compact size, durability, and five brightness levels ranging from ultra-low to turbo.
In our tests, it also fit in every car console, big or small.
In fact, we named it our best overall pick out ofall the car mounts we testedthus far.
That’s why we recommend investing in a cigarette lighter USB charger, like this one from Amazon.
It provides a reliable way to call for assistance when cell phone service isn’t available.
This one from Garmin has a strong battery life and employs reliable satellite technology.
You will need a satellite subscription, and monthly plans are about $15.
Here’s some key items youll want to keep on hand for your car.
It’s big enough to be useful but small and light enough to carry around.
We noted that the tools and blades are easy to open, including the locking mechanisms.
These chains also provide good braking performance and stay tight to the tire.
An emergency kit is definitely a must, and this is a good place to start.
Without antifreeze, the engine water could … freeze.
That would cause damage to the engine block and radiator, leading to extensive and costly damage.
This antifreeze from Valvoline has a long life and is compatible with many vehicles.
The formula can also repel water and is suitable all year long.
In fact, carrying safety triangles is required in some areas and for some specific types of vehicles.
These Cartman triangles are approved by the Department of Transportation and have a folding, snap-fit design.
Just don’t forget to be extra careful when you’re setting them up behind your vehicle.
Carrying a jumper starter pack that doesn’t require another vehicle to operate.
You just attach the clamps to your battery, press power, and start the vehicle.
It also has an LED flashlight with emergency strobe and SOS modes.
Prioritize the essentials
To start off, ensure you have a phone and a charger.
So prioritize making sure you always have a charge.
Bennett also shares this great tip: keep the smaller essentials in a backpack in your vehicle cabin.
Think of it like an airplane carry-on and pack accordingly.
In that case,snow tiresare a good idea.
The packing list above will ensure you have all the basics covered.
Also,a trunk organizercan help these must-haves in one designated place to maximize your car’s storage space.
For tires, you should check the tread and pressure.
you’re free to check the tread yourself with the “quarter tire test.”
Take a quarter, put it upside down, and stick it inside the tread.
Also, see to it you have a spare tire, if your vehicle allows for one.
“Understand what equipment you have,” Bennett advises.
“Don’t be looking at your phone while you’re driving,” Bennett cautions.
And create and download your playlist before you hit the road.
If you’re traveling as a family,keeping kids engagedis also crucial to a less distracted ride.
And that task at hand is going from point A to point B, safely."
Comfortablekids' headphonesalso provide a good way to keep kids focused on their own entertainment.
Maintain visibility while carrying cargo
Packing up skisor a snowboard?
Consider getting a cargo box and ensure it’s securely fastened.
Also know that a heavy load will impact your gas mileage or battery range.
Credit: Amazon
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you prepare your car for a winter road trip?
“The big thing is to start early,” Bennett says.
He recommends inspecting your vehicle two or three weeks ahead of your trip.
Credit: Travel + Leisure / Stella Yu
There may be a part you oughta order or an expense you weren’t prepared for.
What do you wear on a road trip in winter?
How can you make long car rides more comfortable?
“Take frequent breaks,” Bennett advises.
If not, you could get tired mentally and physically.
This means you won’t be able to react as well.
Best case scenario: there is a scenic overlook or historic site on your way.
What should you keep in mind for a winter road trip in an EV?
Bennett is also clear to emphasize the importance of checking tire pressure and tread on all cars.
In addition, low tire pressure can reduce your range.
Annie included products extensively tested by the T+L team as well as thoroughly researched options.
She also called on her experience planning winter road trips, including many ski trips to Lake Tahoe.
Credit: Amazon
Credit: Ocoopa
Credit: Travel + Leisure / Anna Knief
Credit: Amazon
Credit: Travel + Leisure / Henry Wortock
Credit: Amazon
Travel + Leisure
Credit: Amazon
Credit: Amazon
Credit: Amazon
Credit: Amazon
Credit: Travel + Leisure / Henry Wortock
Credit: Amazon
Credit: Amazon
Credit: Amazon
Credit: Amazon
Credit: Amazon
Credit: Amazon
Credit: Amazon
Credit: Amazon
Credit: Amazon
Credit: Amazon
Credit: Amazon
