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Walking in a Winter Wonderland: Tips for Traveling During the Holidays

Regardless of where you go, it is important to put safety at the forefront of your travel itinerary.

By Sam LarsonPublished about a year ago 3 min read
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Walking in a Winter Wonderland: Tips for Traveling During the Holidays
Photo by Joshua Earle on Unsplash

From ski slopes to sunny beaches, winter vacations are the perfect opportunity for a well-deserved break. Regardless of where you choose to visit this season, it is important to put safety at the forefront of your travel itinerary.

Before you book or set out on your next winter trip, ensure you follow these four tips to keep your holiday season free from serious injuries or unexpected delays.

Pack Accordingly

Wherever you go on your winter vacation, ensure you pack accordingly. If you are headed to a warmer climate to escape the cold weather, pack lightweight clothing that will protect your skin from the sun and ample sunscreen. If you are embracing the winter weather, ensure you pack multiple layers and opt for water-resistant coats and boots.

Regardless of whether you are hitting the beach or the mountains, The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend using protection from UV rays all year, stating “UV rays can reach you on cloudy and cool days, and they reflect off of surfaces like water, cement, sand, and snow.” Opt for sunglasses, sunscreen, hats, and UV resistant clothes if possible.

If you plan to travel with presents during the holiday season, consider wrapping presents after you arrive at your final destination; if your packages raise any concern, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) may unwrap them.

Preparing Your Car

Before you take your car into inclement weather, consider taking it to the shop. If your vehicle is difficult to start or drive in good weather, winter weather will only make it worse. Ensure your defroster and heater work properly, ideally before you need to use them. Check wiper blades and ensure there is ample windshield wiper fluid.

“If you regularly drive to higher elevations, you may want to add deicer to the gas tank each month,” note accident attorneys at Rosenthal Law, “This helps keep the fuel line free of icy clogs. A full gas tank inhibits moisture accumulation, which can also contribute to ice buildup.”

Use Defensive Driving Techniques

While summer months have the highest number of serious vehicle accidents, The U.S. Department of Transportation reports “every year, nearly 900 people are killed and nearly 76,000 people are injured in vehicle crashes during snowfall or sleet.” Winter weather can make the roads dangerous for everyone, bicyclists, truck drivers, and passenger vehicles alike.

Utilizing defensive driving techniques can help mitigate the chance of a serious collision. Slowing down, obeying traffic signs, and paying attention to your surroundings can help increase your reaction time to respond to unfavorable events on the road wherever you may be.

Research Before You Go

Do you need to show proof of a negative COVID-19 test? Are there any road closures? Do you need to wear masks? Will there be inclement weather? Do you need to make reservations in advance?

Wherever you decide to go this holiday season, take the time to research any questions you may have and ensure you have followed all travel requirements. Some places may require you to wear masks or show proof of a negative COVID-19 test before arriving at the airport. While many countries and states have lifted tough COVID-19 restrictions, some protocols are still being enforced and require additional action prior to arriving.

Ensuring You Have the Happiest (and Safest) Holiday Season

A happy holiday season and winter vacation is one without injuries or negative unforeseen circumstances. By packing accordingly, preparing your car, using defensive driving techniques, and researching before you travel to your destination, you can ensure you have the merriest season possible. Safety should always be at the top of your winter travel plans, wherever you decide to visit!

airlinesfamily traveltravel advicetravel tips
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About the Creator

Sam Larson

Writer of things, lover of art.

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