We've done more summer road trips than winter, but I'm beginning to feel like an expert in winter road trips too. They're a little different than summer road trips, so keep the following in mind when packing and planning:
- Take warm clothes, gloves, boots and a blanket in case you get stranded. We sat on highway 90 in freezing temperatures for hours once waiting for a sideways truck to be moved.
- Know which items in your car should not be frozen: take them in with you if you stay somewhere overnight (liquid medications, instruments, fruit, etc). Covid tests should not be frozen.
- Swap out your 'summer things' (sunscreen, bug spray) on the list or bag, for winter things (cold and flu prevention/treatment, chapstick). I pack dried elderberries and essential oils for helping clear out gunky noses.
- Just because it's winter doesn't mean you shouldn't pack the swimsuit!
- Know the website to check road conditions for each state you'll travel through.
- Meals will now have to be assembled out in the cold or on your lap, so meal plan accordingly by pre-making your sandwiches/meals or bringing a cutting board or other surface to put on your lap for meal prep (a pillow can work in a pinch, just wash the pillowcase later)
- Of course, have enough liquid water and snacks in your vehicle to be prepared for emergencies.
Safe travels to all my winter road trip people!
