
Winter Weather Car Travel: Safety and Survival Tips with FREE Printable
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When it comes to winter travel safety, I can tell you from personal experience that preparation is key! A few years ago, my friend Julie and I were driving back from a Chicago trip with our daughters, writing a story for Wisconsin Parent. On the way home, we found ourselves stranded on the side of the Illinois tollway in freezing temperatures with a dead car.

Luckily, we had some essentials in Julie’s car, which kept the kids warm, but we weren’t quite so prepared ourselves. It didn’t take long for us to feel the effects of the bitter cold, and it was a stark reminder of how quickly body temperature can drop in such conditions.
As much of the country deals with snow and winter weather advisories, it’s the perfect time to revisit your car travel safety plans. Whether you’re heading to a warmer climate or embracing the winter wonderland, a few smart precautions can make all the difference when you’re traveling by car this time of year.

Why You Need a Winter Car Safety Kit
It may feel like one more thing to add to your already packed car, but having a safety and survival kit is absolutely essential when winter weather strikes. A safety kit can literally save your life in the event of an emergency. According to the National Weather Service, every vehicle traveling in winter conditions should be stocked with the following items:
- Blankets or sleeping bags to keep everyone warm.
- A flashlight (with extra batteries or crank-powered) to navigate in the dark or signal for help.
- First-aid kit for basic medical needs.
- A sturdy knife for emergencies.
- High-calorie, non-perishable food to keep your energy up.
- Extra clothing to stay dry and warm.
- An empty can and plastic cover for sanitary purposes, along with tissues and paper towels.
- A can, candles, and waterproof matches to melt snow for drinking water.
- A sack of sand or cat litter to help you gain traction if your car gets stuck.
- A shovel to dig your car out of snowdrifts.
- A windshield scraper and brush to keep visibility clear.
- A basic tool kit, including a tow rope and booster cables.
- Water containers for hydration.
- A compass and road maps, since cell phone batteries and GPS can fail in extreme cold.
If you’re traveling with multiple passengers, ensure you have enough clothing, blankets, and supplies for everyone. You might also consider stashing a pair of winter boots for each passenger—just in case you need to venture outside for help.
Driving in Winter Weather: Slow Down and Be Prepared
Winter roads can be deceptive. A road that looks clear may hide black ice or slippery patches, so always drive slowly and cautiously. It’s also a good idea to stop often and keep your gas tank at least three-quarters full. If you get stranded, having a full tank can keep you warm and power your car for longer.

What to Do If You Get Stranded
Finding yourself stranded in winter weather can be a frightening experience, but knowing what to do can mean the difference between life and death.
- Stay with your vehicle: Your car is much easier for rescuers to spot than you would be if you ventured out into the snow. Only leave if you are certain you know your surroundings and can safely walk to help, or if it’s your last resort.
- Buckle up: If you’re stuck on the side of the road, bad weather could cause other drivers to lose control and slide into your car. Staying buckled ensures your safety in case of impact.
- Open a window slightly: Make sure to crack open a back window to prevent carbon monoxide buildup in the event your tailpipe becomes blocked with snow.
- Run the engine sparingly: Turn your car on for 10-15 minutes each hour to generate heat or melt snow for water. This also conserves fuel and battery power, which is crucial if you’re stranded for an extended period.
- Don’t panic: Remaining calm is the most important thing you can do in an emergency. Panicking can cloud your judgment and lead to poor decisions, so take deep breaths, stay focused, and use your supplies wisely.

Free Printable Winter Survival Kit Checklist
I’ve created a FREE printable to help you prepare a winter car travel safety kit and keep your family safe on the road. It’s a simple but powerful tool to share with friends and loved ones—because you never know when these tips might save a life. Please feel free to download it, print it out, and pass it along to anyone who needs a reminder of how crucial winter car safety really is!
Winter travel can be beautiful and exciting, but only when you’re fully prepared. Don’t let the cold catch you off guard—stay safe, stay warm, and make sure your car is stocked with everything you need to weather the storm.
Get your winter travel safety checklist here
2 thoughts on “Winter Weather Car Travel: Safety and Survival Tips with FREE Printable”
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I have been pretty fortunate to not have any emergencies while driving in the winter. It is always good to be prepared.
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