Feeling nervous about driving in winter conditions? You’re not alone. Many drivers don’t realize standard tires can compromise family safety when snow and ice hit. Our guide will help you demystify winter tires, with a simple break down of the science of winter tires to practical installation tips.

We’ll help you understand how specialized tires can transform your winter driving experience, keeping your loved ones secure on challenging roads. Learn the difference between all-season and winter tires, discover money-saving strategies, and gain the confidence to safely navigate winter’s most treacherous conditions.

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Why Your Family Needs Winter Tires

If you’ve ever thought, “My all-season tires are good enough,” you might want to think again. Winter tires become crucial when temperatures drop below 7°C/45°F – even before the first snowfall.

All-season tires are like wearing sneakers in winter, while winter tires are like wearing snow boots.

The numbers tell a compelling story. Vehicles equipped with winter tires stop up to 40% shorter on icy roads compared to all-season tires. That’s the difference between a close call and a costly accident. For a family vehicle, this could mean having an extra 6-8 car lengths of stopping distance at highway speeds.

Budget-wise, while winter tires represent an upfront investment of $600-1,000, this cost spreads across several seasons. Plus, using winter tires extends the life of your all-season set, making the real cost lower than you might think.

Understanding Winter Tire Basics

Look for the snowflake symbol on winter tires – this is your assurance of genuine winter performance. This symbol means the tire meets specific winter traction requirements.

The tread pattern on winter tires isn’t just random. Those zig-zagging grooves and tiny slits (called sipes) work like hundreds of tiny snow claws. They grab onto snow and ice, giving you better traction when needed.

The rubber compound in winter tires stays flexible in cold weather. In contrast, all-season tires become hard and less grippy – imagine the difference between a soft rubber band and a stiff one. Which would grip better?

Common winter tire myths to forget:

• “I have AWD/4WD, so I don’t need winter tires” (False: AWD helps you go, but doesn’t help you stop)
• “I only need winter tires on my drive wheels” (False: all four wheels need winter tires for balanced handling)
• “I can wait until it snows to install them” (False: temperature matters more than snow)

Winter Tires vs. Snow Chains: Understanding Your Traction Options

Winter tires and snow chains serve similar purposes but are distinctly different tools for navigating challenging winter driving conditions. Winter tires are a permanent seasonal solution with specialized rubber compounds and flexible tread patterns that provide excellent traction in cold temperatures.

They’re engineered to perform consistently in snow, ice, and temperatures below 45°F, offering improved handling, shorter stopping distances, and better overall vehicle control throughout the winter season.

By contrast, snow chains are temporary traction devices that attach directly to your vehicle’s tires for emergencies or extreme conditions.

They’re typically used in areas with severe mountain driving, during unexpected snowstorms, or on roads requiring mandatory chain use. While chains provide immediate traction in extreme conditions, they’re not meant for prolonged use. They can damage road surfaces and your vehicle if driven at high speeds or on clear roads.

Find a complete list of chain laws by state here

In most winter driving scenarios, winter tires are the preferred and recommended. However, some mountain passes and alpine regions may legally require chains to be carried (even if winter tires are installed).

Ultimately, the best approach is to use winter tires as your primary winter driving solution and keep chains as an emergency backup for the most extreme conditions. Drivers in regions with consistent winter weather should prioritize a full set of winter tires. At the same time, those in areas with occasional severe conditions might benefit from having both options available.

Pressure Points:

Maintaining proper tire pressure becomes even more crucial during winter, as cold temperatures can significantly reduce air pressure in your tires.

Vehicle owners should develop a routine of checking tire pressure monthly and before any long trips, always measuring when the tires are cold for the most accurate reading. Keeping a reliable tire pressure gauge in the glove box makes this routine easy and convenient.

We use this compact tire pressure gauge for car tires and the kids’ bikes!

Storage Solutions:

Proper tire storage between seasons can extend the life of your investment. Use protective tire bags or covers to store your off-season tires in a cool, dry place. When storing, stack tires horizontally or hang them on designated tire racks, and always label each tire with its original vehicle position to maintain proper rotation.

Remember: Winter tires aren’t just another car expense – they’re an investment in your family’s safety. When you’re navigating that snowy road to the ski resort, you’ll be glad you made the switch.

Common Winter Tire Challenges and Solutions

Uneven Wear and Premature Degradation

Winter tires can experience faster wear if they are used during warmer months or not rotated properly. Drivers might notice unusual tread wear patterns that develop more quickly than with all-season tires. This typically occurs when winter tires are left on the vehicle during summer or when vehicles are not regularly maintained with proper rotation and alignment checks.

Ice and Snow Buildup in Tire Treads

You may encounter situations where snow and ice become compacted within the tire’s tread patterns, significantly reducing traction. This problem is most prevalent during fluctuating temperatures when wet snow freezes and becomes trapped in the tire’s grooves. The accumulated ice can create a smooth surface that dramatically reduces the tire’s ability to grip the road, essentially negating the tire’s designed winter performance.

Pressure Fluctuations and Inflation Issues

Winter temperatures cause significant air pressure changes in tires, creating challenges for drivers. The cold can cause tire pressure to drop dramatically, sometimes by 1-2 PSI for every 10-degree temperature decrease. This means a properly inflated tire in a heated garage can be significantly underinflated when exposed to cold outdoor conditions, which impacts vehicle handling, fuel efficiency, and overall tire performance.

Tread Separation and Sidewall Damage

Harsh winter conditions can accelerate tire damage, particularly with tires not specifically designed for extreme cold. Drivers might notice small cracks developing in the sidewall or areas where the tread begins to separate from the tire’s body.

These issues are often exacerbated by driving on rough, salt-covered, poorly maintained winter roads that stress the tire’s structure.

Noise and Comfort Differences

Due to their more aggressive tread patterns, winter tires typically produce more road noise than all-season tires. Drivers may find their vehicle sounds louder and experience slightly less smooth ride quality.

The specialized rubber compounds and deeper treads designed to provide winter traction come with the trade-off of increased road noise and a potentially less comfortable ride.

Mounting and Balancing Complications

Some drivers experience challenges during the initial installation of winter tires. Professional technicians might struggle with precise balancing due to the unique tread designs of winter tires. This can result in slight vibrations or uneven wear if not addressed correctly during mounting.

Additionally, the specialized nature of winter tires means that not all service centers have equal expertise in their proper installation.

Salt and Chemical Corrosion

Winter roads treated with salt and chemical de-icing agents can accelerate tire deterioration. Drivers may notice increased sidewall degradation or subtle changes in tire composition over time. Constant exposure to corrosive materials can break down the tire’s rubber compounds more quickly than driving in less harsh conditions.

As winter’s icy grip loosens and the first hints of spring fill the air, families across the country eagerly start planning their adventures on the open road. Whether it’s a weekend getaway to witness blooming wildflowers or a spring break journey to visit relatives, this transitional season brings unique driving challenges.

While the disappearance of snow and ice might suggest easier driving conditions, spring’s unpredictable nature demands special attention to keep your precious cargo safe. Being prepared can transform potentially stressful situations into manageable moments, from sudden rain showers to unexpected temperature swings.

Let’s explore how to keep your family safe and comfortable during your springtime journeys, ensuring every mile creates memories for the right reasons.

Weather-Related Considerations For a Spring Road Trip

Spring Rain

The most common springtime driving hazard is rain showers that mix with accumulated winter oil residue, creating treacherously slick conditions. Reduce your speed by at least 5-10 mph in wet conditions and maintain a 4-second following distance from the vehicle ahead.

Hydroplaning

When your vehicle’s tires lose contact with the road surface due to water accumulation, hydroplaning can occur at speeds as low as 35 mph. If you feel your car hydroplaning, avoid braking suddenly – instead, ease off the accelerator and steer gently in the direction you want to go.

Morning Frost

Early spring mornings can still bring freezing temperatures, causing unexpected icy patches on bridges and shaded areas. Allow an extra 5-10 minutes for complete defrosting of your windshield and mirrors before departure.

Fog Challenges

Spring temperature variations frequently create fog, particularly in valleys and near bodies of water. Use low-beam headlights (never high beams) and reduce speed to match visibility conditions.

Vehicle Preparation Checklist For Spring

Tire Safety and Maintenance

Spring temperature fluctuations can significantly impact tire pressure. Check tires weekly when they’re cold, typically after sitting overnight. Inspect for uneven wear patterns which might indicate alignment issues from winter potholes.

For every 10-degree temperature change, tire pressure can shift by 1-2 PSI. Winter-worn roads may have created new suspension issues that affect tire wear.

Windshield and Visibility Systems

Winter’s harsh conditions often deteriorate wiper blades beyond their useful life. Look for signs of cracking, streaking, or skipping across the windshield. Spring pollen and rain make properly functioning wipers crucial.

Test your washers to ensure adequate coverage, and fill the reservoir with a spring-appropriate solution that includes bug-removing properties.

Brake System Assessment

Winter salt and moisture can accelerate brake wear and corrosion. Listen for grinding, squealing, or unusual vibrations when braking. Check brake fluid levels and color – dark fluid indicates replacement time. Have a professional inspect brake lines for rust or damage, particularly if you’ve driven frequently on salted roads.

Battery Performance

Cold winter conditions can reduce battery capacity by up to 50%. Have your battery professionally tested to ensure it maintains its strength through winter. Clean any corrosion from terminals using a baking soda solution, and ensure cables are tight and free from damage. Look for signs of battery case swelling, which indicates internal damage.

We have a complete guide to pre-road trip vehicle checks you should always make before hitting the road with your family

Road Trip Planning Essentials For Spring

Route Analysis and Preparation

Research your route extensively using multiple sources, including state DOT websites and weather forecasts. Spring often brings road construction projects that can add significant delay time.

Additionally, lingering snow drifts can create treacherous surprises, particularly in mountainous regions and northern states where sudden storms can dump several inches of wet, heavy snow overnight. Even when the roads seem clear, strong winds can blow loose snow across highways, creating dangerous whiteout conditions and deep drifts that can block entire lanes without warning.

Create a detailed map marking potential alternate routes, particularly around flood-prone areas and known construction zones. Track historical weather patterns along your route to anticipate potential challenges.

Rest Stop Strategy

Plan strategic breaks every 2-3 hours, identifying family-friendly facilities in advance. Consider that spring weather might make some rest areas muddy or unusable.

Mark multiple options for each planned stop, including restaurants, parks, and traditional rest areas. Remember that children often need more frequent stops during spring allergy season.

Emergency Response Planning

Create a comprehensive emergency kit tailored to spring conditions, including basic tools, first aid supplies, and rain gear. Document emergency contact numbers for all areas along your route, including local police departments and hospitals. Keep paper maps as backup, and consider a secondary GPS device or app for backup navigation.

Seasonal Hazards To Be Aware of Driving in Spring

Pedestrian and Children Safety Awareness

Spring brings a dramatic increase in pedestrian activity, particularly in residential areas. Children eager to enjoy warmer weather may be less attentive to traffic. Be especially vigilant during after-school hours (typically 3-6 PM) and weekends.

Reduce speed in residential areas by at least 5-10 mph below posted limits when pedestrian activity is high. Watch for children emerging between parked cars or playing near streets.

Bicycle Traffic Management

Cars and campervans aren’t the only road users: The arrival of spring weather typically brings a 200-300% increase in bicycle traffic on many roads. Maintain a minimum 3-foot passing distance, more if traveling at higher speeds.

Be particularly cautious during dawn and dusk hours when cyclists may be harder to see. Check blind spots thoroughly before turning right, as cyclists often approach in this hard-to-see area. Wet roads make cyclists more likely to swerve to avoid hazards.

Wildlife Movement Patterns

Spring migration brings increased wildlife activity, particularly during dawn and dusk hours. Be especially cautious in areas marked with wildlife crossing signs, reducing speed by at least 10 mph in these zones.

Use high beams when possible on dark roads, but remember to dim them for oncoming traffic. Watch for groups of animals, as deer and other wildlife rarely travel alone during spring breeding season.

Agricultural Equipment Interactions

Farm machinery moves significantly slower than regular traffic, typically 15-25 mph, and may take up multiple lanes. These vehicles make wide turns and often need to swing left before turning right. Watch for mud and debris near field entrances, which can create hazardous conditions for up to 100 feet. Never pass farm equipment near intersections, bridges, or hills where visibility is limited. Allow for sudden stops, as operators may need to adjust their equipment frequently.

Ready For a Safe Spring Road trip?

This shoulder season rewards early birds with shorter queues, better accommodation rates, and more intimate experiences at popular destinations. However, as we’ve explored, spring’s changeable nature demands extra vigilance and preparation.

By following these safety guidelines and maintaining your vehicle properly, you’ll be well-equipped to embrace the season’s adventures.

More Spring Driving Inspiration

Looking for ideas on where to drive this Spring? You’ll want to check out next:

Stunning destination to explore by road in the early Spring
East Coast Spring Break Destinations
Make the Most of the Magical Springtime in the Midwest
Nature enthusiasts make the most of these US National Parks in Spring (before the crowds!)

This is the most important resource you need for planning any sort of road trip.

We focus on family adventures, so there are quite a few family items here, but we have you sorted for road-tripping with your partner or your mates, too!

Get your notepad ready, or click here to download a printable version of this road trip packing list.

It’s important to note, not all road trips are created equal! It’s impractical to think you’ll need the same gear trekking through Europe in a hire car in winter as you’ll need for a summer RV trip across the United States; we’ll include here a very general checklist for all types of road trips, plus additional items to consider in extreme weather and certain locations.

Car Essentials: Important Items to Pack for Vehicle Safety and Maintenance

Before we get on to personal comfort and entertainment, it’s essential to consider the road trip essentials for your vehicle. Whether it’s your own car, a campervan, or a rental vehicle, here’s what you need to ensure is packed in your road-tripping vehicle.

Insurance

It should go without saying THE most important thing to have before you commence a road trip is travel insurance and car insurance.

Think not just any potential damage to your vehicle, are you insured for theft, delays, cancellations, or personal liability if you cause an accident? Will your travel insurance or credit card insurance cover these things, or do you need extra protection?

Roadside Assistance

What would happen if your vehicle breaks down mid-trip? If your vehicle is rented, your car hire company might have this covered for you – but do check the fine print when you’re signing your contracts about who is responsible for what.

If it’s your own vehicle, you may need your own coverage, separate from your insurance. Some premium credit cards include roadside assistance, but perhaps only with limited conditions (e.g. within a certain distance of home).

Check, double-check and make sure that phone number is saved somewhere you can easily grab in an emergency!

Drivers License

A valid driver’s license is a very important road trip essential! If traveling out of the jurisdiction where your license was issued, check if your driver’s license is accepted at your destination. Will you need to obtain an international driving permit?

Vehicle Registration

You will also need evidence of vehicle ownership with you or a rental agreement showing ownership.

Car Manual

No doubt this bulky item spends 99% of the time taking up space in your glove compartment but do not dream of leaving it behind on a long journey. Just imagine a scenario where you are stuck on the side of the road with no internet, cell service, or roadside assistance; when all else fails, check the manual!

Emergency Roadside Kit

Even with roadside assistance, there may be a few running repairs you can take care of yourself. Consider packing your own jumper cables, spare bulbs, small torch, screwdriver, and tape – or even easier, invest in an emergency kit you can keep in the trunk.

62 Piece Roadside Emergency Assistance Kit

127-Pieces Roadside Car Emergency Kit

Roadside Assistance Emergency Kit

See more below on extra safety gear considerations for cold-weather road trips.

Spare Tire

So often, our pre-road trip checks go as far as we can see inside the car and ensure your oil and water levels are OK, but never forget about your spare tire!

Ensure it will still be roadworthy and get you out of trouble when you really need it – and that your car is equipped with the appropriate tools, including a jack and bolt remover if you get a flat tire.

Smart Phone

We can all agree that smartphones are needed for almost every aspect of our lives now, and road-tripping is no exception. From navigation to music, QR Code reading, camera – oh, maybe even making a phone call?!

There’s no hard and fast rule on the best road trip smartphone; it’s down to whether you’re camp Apple or Android. We would suggest a phone with tons of storage space or the ability to add external storage.

Traveling overseas, you may want a phone capable of dual sims – and don’t forget to have your phone unlocked if you want a sim on a different network.

Road Tripping Apps

Of course, a smartphone is only as good as your downloaded apps. Here are some essential road tripping apps to consider:

Roadtrippers

This app is a total game-changer if you’re a regular road tripper, particularly at the planning stage. Load it up on a big screen first and play with all the different routes you can take. You’ll get driving distance estimations, add filtered layers for roadside attractions, food and accommodation options, and even a fuel calculator. (Google Play | App Store)!

Once you hit the open road, use the offline maps and look out for any last-minute detour planning; it even has guided navigation. Currently, detailed maps are available only for the USA, Canada, Australia & New Zealand. It’s one of the few “free apps” we’ve tried, and immediately saw the value of upgrading to Plus. The free version is good but limited in how many stops you can add.

Get $5 off the plus version here! Code: BTR5QTP

Google Maps

We do still keep Google Maps as our backup navigation tool. Just remember if you will be out of range to download maps in advance (many apps will require you to upgrade to the pro feature if you use this feature). Be mindful that downloading maps can be heavy on your phone’s memory, so delete the maps you no longer need.

You’ll find our complete guide to essential road trip apps over here

Loose Change

Parking meters, tolls, tips. We might be heading further towards a cashless society, but we’re not quite there yet. Always handy to have some local currency coins rattling around in your car for emergency situations.

Notepad and Pen

Likewise, as much as our smartphones manage our lives these days, a good old fashion pen and paper at times never go astray as a handy emergency item.

Charger / USB Cord

With all the handy uses for smartphones these days, you can see just how quickly you’ll drain the battery once you hit the road.

You’ll want some sort of charging device in your car, whether this is through an in-built USB port in your car or on older models, an adaptor that can fit in the cigarette lighter socket.

4 in 1 Multifunctional Charger Cable Adapter

Fast USB C Car Charger Adapter

iPhone Fast Car Charger, Veetone 48W Dual Port USB C

Just check if you need a USB, USB C, or a combination of both and the right cords for connecting your devices.

Phone Holder

Even better than having your smartphone floating around the car, get a purpose phone holder that can attach to your dash. You can then easily use your smartphone for navigation; these holders can also act as a charger, meaning you will need one less car accessory.

Magnetic Phone Holder for Car

Air Vent Cell Phone Holder Car

Cell Phone Holder for Car Phone Mount Long

Flashlight

Super handy when your car battery has died, or you’re seeking out lost items under seats. Keep a torch or small flashlight in an easy-to-grab part of your car.

Lepro LED Flashlight with Clip

LE Black Light Flashlight

EDC Small Rechargeable Flashlight

Multitool/Pocket knife

Another handy item to always have in easy reach is a multitool or pocket knife. Be it minor running repairs, mini scissors, or taking off bottle caps. An indispensable family vacation packing item!

Mini Hand Tools Pliers Multitool Knife

Camping Hunting Multitool Pocket Knife

Multitool Pocket Knife Accessory Gift

Windshield Sun Shade

If you are road-tripping in hotter climates, you’ll quickly realize just how essential a windshield sunshade is for your car. Look for a design that covers the entire windshield and can easily fold back into a convenient pouch.

A1 Shades Car Windshield

EcoNour Car Windshield Sun Shade with Storage Pouch

EcoNour Accordion Windshield Sun Shade for Car

If you are driving a truck or larger SUV, be mindful that you will need larger shades than regular cars.

Road Trip Essentials for Families

So now we’ve got everything you need to keep the vehicle going and navigate your way; here are all the items you need to keep your family clean, fed, and cared for.

You may also want to check in on our guide, “road tripping essentials for kids.”

First Aid Kit

We all know accidents can happen anywhere – literally anywhere! You can probably have a full first aid kit tucked in your trunk, but an easy-to-access first aid kit for road trips should be kept inside your vehicle, most likely in your glove compartment. Think items such as Band-Aids, children’s Panadol, and diarrhea tablets.

Tissues & Water Wipes

Snot, spills, spit-up; you know the drill if you’re a parent. We always keep tissues for the front and back of the car and a good supply of water wipes for those heavy-duty cleanups on the go, not to mention constant hand cleaning!

Motion Sickness Tablets

Don’t let long windy roads impact your road trip enjoyment. If you have a motion sickness sufferer, plan your route carefully and bring a few different remedies. Just be aware many motion sickness tablets make you tired, so don’t pop one right before you need them to make a roadside stop!

Dramamine Motion Sickness for Kids

Bonine Motion Sickness Tablets

Dramamine Motion Sickness Less Drowsy

Trash System

Keep your car organized and clean with an appropriate spot to keep your trash. This can simply be a reused plastic shopping bag or if you love your car clean and neat, try these purpose-made car trash bins.

HOTOR Car Trash Can with Lid and Storage Pockets

SUN CUBE Waterproof Car Trash Can with Lid

Car Garbage Bag Hanging with Strap

Water Bottles

Hydration on the road is essential, but don’t overdo it! The larger the bottle you give kids, the greater your propensity to pull over every 30 minutes for bathroom breaks.

Pick a good insulated bottle for every family member (if possible, assess the size of the beverage holder everyone will have in the car).

Thermoflask Double Stainless Steel Insulated Water Bottle

Swig Savvy Sports Insulated Stainless Steel Water Bottle

Takeya Originals Vacuum-Insulated Stainless-Steel Water Bottle

Reusable Coffee Mugs

Do the environmentally friendly thing and cut our plastic cup waste on your road trips. If you love your hot beverages for the taste of keeping alert, BYO it! Just check though; some coffee travel mugs come with handles that may not fit in a car beverage holder.

BrüMate Toddy 100% Leak Proof Insulated Coffee Mug

Life’s Easy – Stainless Steel Vacuum Insulated Mug

Congela 18oz Premium Stainless Coffee Mug

Snacks, Snacks, and More Snacks

A healthy supply of road trip snacks is KEY to keeping the hangry’s at bay. They are the ultimate pick me up, and kids really look forward to this part of a road trip.

However much you think you’re going to need, pack double. Oh, and as cute as those trays of food in one big tackle box look, do think practically too; if one child knocks it over, will you lose your entire journey’s supplies? If you’re going bento box-style, keep it compact.

We have a huge list of 40+ Healthy Road Trip Snacks for kids over here.

Polarized Sunglasses

Make sure the driver has good 100% UV protection sunglasses. You’ll likely want a set for your passengers, too, especially in warm and sunny climates.

Women’s Sunglasses UV400 Mirrored Lens

Lightweight TAC Polarized Tinted Retro 70s Sunglasses

KUGUAOK 2 PACK Polarized Sports Sunglasses

Car Organizers

Keeping your car organized can be an ongoing challenge for a road trip, but certainly, a sanity saver if you can put some good systems in place.

Back of the Seat Organiser

These are great when taking your own vehicle for having an organized system in the back seat of your car for the kids. Find a home for tissues, wipes, snacks, and toys that can stay in the car. Some even come with fold-down trays and tablet holding systems.

CAR KANGAROO Back Seat Car Organizer 2 Pack

VENFOREST Black Car Backseat Organizer

Tidify Car Front Seat Organizer

Sun Visor Organizer

These sun visor organizers for the car are a great convenient spot for keeping things like parking passes, loose coins, insurance documents – even a handy spot for things like tissues, wipes, and face masks.

Da by Car Sun Visor Organizer

Car Sun Visor Organizer

Car Truck Visor Storage Pouch Holder

Travel Tray For Kids

Great, especially for your preschooler and younger children in a forward-facing car seat. A travel tray expands the number of car games that a child can play and gives them a flat surface for eating snacks and somewhere to hold their drink bottle and tablet.

Trunk Organizer

These trunk organizers are great on long road trips where you may not want to pull everything out at every stop. You can have compartments for picnics and trail stops, another for food, and a quick and easy-to-reach spot for toilet emergencies.

Oasser Waterproof Collapsible Trunk Organizer

Mega Racer Black Trunk Organizer for Car

Collapsible Trunk Organizer for Car

Road Trip Essentials Babies and Toddlers

As you’re no doubt acutely aware, babies and toddlers add a whole extra element of complexity to our travels! We won’t necessarily call them challenges – but just a little extra thought and space – tend to be needed when road-tripping with very young children.

Infant Car Seat

Family Road Trip 101. Every child needs the appropriate safety restraint in a vehicle until they reach the height and weight to move into a grown-up chair (which may be much later than you think!)

You will need to check the local regulations on where you’ll be road-tripping, as some countries are much stricter than others on the appropriate type of restraint.

If you are looking to use your car seat on a plane, too, there are extra considerations to consider – you’ll find a good guide here on what car seats are appropriate for cars and planes.

Booster

Even if your child has outgrown their infant car seat, they may still sit too low in their seat to use the seat belt properly. There’s a long in-between phase where kids still need a booster seat.

You will likely start with a high-back booster that converts from a 5-point harness to a lap belt, then, as they grow, downgrade to a portable backless booster that just gives them a little extra height and support.

Car Mirror

When your newborns and infants are still super small and unable to communicate with you – particularly when still in a rear-facing infant seat – it’s vital you have some way of keeping an eye on them. One way is to install a car mirror above their seat that you can see from your rearview mirror.

Wide Shatterproof Baby Carseat Mirror

Fully Assembled Baby Mirror For Car

Shatterproof Newborn Safety Mirror

Car Baby Monitor

Alternatively, a portable car baby monitor may give you a clearer vision of your child without needing to strain in a mirror or distract you from the road ahead. The disadvantage of a camera in the car is that you have extra wires to deal with, and they take up a plug point – which may invaluably be needed for your smartphone or navigation device!

There are pros and cons to both car mirrors and car baby monitors but they can certainly bring you peace of mind, particularly traveling with a newborn.

Side Window Shades

We talked earlier about keeping the sun off your dash while parked but don’t forget your side windows too. Young children can be distressed by the light coming through the window, especially if they’re trying to nap so a great addition to keep your backseat guests cozy is a properly fitted side sunshade.

Enovoe Car Window Shade

kinder Fluff Car Window Shades

GOODYEAR Self Sticking Car Sun Shades

SUVs and larger vehicles consider you may need a larger shade or two shades on each window to get full coverage.

Portable Bottle Warmer

This is probably more of a “nice to have,” but if your bubs are especially fussy and like their bottles at a certain temperature, you’ll find it a total lifesaver!

There are plenty of portable bottle warmer models made especially for cars (though, be mindful that they’re all competing for that valuable in-car plug point!)

Don’t forget an insulated breastmilk bag if you’re taking pre-pumped breastmilk bottles in the car with you.

We talk more about drinks & cooling systems below in gear you need for roadside stops!

Quick Change Diaper Kit

You don’t need to pack your entire diaper bag in the car with you for a road trip! Sure, make space for a full change kit in the trunk, but in the car, we prefer to have an easy access grab and go change mat for roadside stops – or even in the front seat if you need to!

Include spare diapers, wipes, disposable baggies, and diaper cream that fold inside a changing mat that doesn’t take up loads of space.

Travel Portable Diaper Changing Pad

SIMBOOM Portable Changing Pad

Enovoe Portable Diaper Changing Pad

Porta Potty

On to the next stage… potty training parents will sometimes know you simply need to go NOW!! Often bathrooms are not readily available when you need them, so do consider having a simple travel potty seat in your car, preferably one you can bag up the mess and deal with at your earliest convenience.

Portable Potty Training Seat for Toddler Kids

Travel Potty Chair for Kids

On The Go Potty Travel Potty Chair for Camping

Also, consider whether a freshly toilet-trained child might need to wear “special car pants.” There’s no shame or regression in suggesting to a child they need their special pants for longer journeys until you’re certain they can go longer stretched and their warning system improves.

Piddle Pad

Graduating again to the next stage. Even with our well-trained preschoolers, we kept a liner in their car seats for years to come. They will put an extra layer of protection between your child and the seat and are much easier to clean in case of an accident than spend days with the smell of a urine-soaked seat.

INFANZIA Piddle Pad for Carseats Strollers

PudCraft 2PCS Piddle Pad Car Seat Protector

COOLBEBE Thicken Carseat Piddle Pad

Psst – do you regularly suffer from the dreaded car stench on a long journey? We share our top tips for removing bad odors from your car and how to keep your car smelling pleasant throughout a long journey.

Road Trip Essentials for Entertainment & Comfort

With all the safety and practical items dealt with, it’s time to get you all cozy and entertained, ready for your next long road trip.

Travel Toys

No matter a child’s age, they still need car toys! For babies, these can be simple items they can kick and chew on, through to more complex puzzles and coloring for your older kids.

Think about items that can’t be choked on without direct supervision, won’t roll away, and get lost between seats if you’re buying road trip toys for toddlers and younger children. And don’t forget to throw something in that can be used at roadside stops, like frisbees or balls.

You’ll find our favorite toddler car toys here

Tablets/Portable DVD Player

A savior for us on the very long driving days has been allowing the kids to use their tablets or electronic devices.

Each family will need to determine its own rules once it comes to screen time on the road. Just remember you may not have WIFI or an internet connection once you hit the road, so anything on their devices needs to be downloaded in advance.

Music, Audio Books, Podcast

Music is a given on any road trip, but why not mix it up with some family audiobooks and podcasts? There are plenty that are suitable for families that you can either listen to together or download onto each family member’s device so they can listen to them alone.

We’ve found Amazon Audible invaluable for this.

Headphones

With electronics, music, and audiobooks, these go hand in hand with the whole family having their own headphones!

Elecder i37 Kids Headphones

Kids Wireless Earbuds

Headphone Splitter

Remember, younger kids will still need something that is volume limiting to protect their hearing, whilst older kids may prefer to graduate to smaller earbuds. Children can still watch something together if you get them a headphone splitter.

Portable Power Banks and Battery Packs

Now we’ve seen just how vital our electronics are these days when we travel by road, don’t forget all these items need to be charged at some point!

Sometimes it simply can’t wait until you are back at your accommodation and have a power source. We strongly recommend having for your car a multi-power adaptor that can work through USB, or having several battery packs, pre-charged and ready to help when a device is running low.

USB Car Charger Adapter

Super Fast USB Car Charger

SUNDAREE 60W 4 Ports USB c Car Charger

You can get smaller units each that will easily fit in their car trays or seat organizers, or go with a big family model 20,000 mAh that will surely last you al an entire day on the road – one of the most useful but often forgotten items for a family road trip!

Family Games

Away from screens and devices, think ahead to games you can play in the car that don’t need any additional props or accessories.

Younger kids can easily pick up a game of I-spy and counting games, whilst your older kids, I’m sure, can enjoy a few rounds of “Would You Rather” or more challenging alphabet games to pass the time.

You can find plenty of games to play in the car with family here, or for older kids after more of a challenge, you might want to check out our collection of road trip trivia games.

Seat Belt Cozies and Neck Pillows

Once kids move out of a high back booster, they have much less support for their heads. Fine when they’re awake and chatting, but you’ll want something that adequately supports their head for nap times – likely on longer trips.

This can be attaching a comfortable cushion over the seat belt they can snuggle into, or even better, a neck pillow that can completely wrap around their head, giving a comfortable fit.

We compare the best car seat pillows for toddlers here.

Drivers cushion

Particularly if you are prone to sciatica back pain, a comfortable car seat cushion for long-distance driving is another essential for drivers.

Road Trip Essentials for Roadside Stops

Traveling long distances with children will require regular rest stops, be it for gas stations and a restroom, or a longer stop to stretch the legs and explore the trails en route. Here’s what we always keep handy in the car for those essential road trip stops:

Small Day Bag

Ready to grab and go when you leave the car, we keep a small backpack ready with the essentials we might need for snack stops, short hikes, and play parks. This can double as the bag you keep snacks in and the important little things like a first aid kit, sanitizers, and fresh face masks.

AOTIAN Small Lightweight Hiking Daypack

SKYSPER Small Hiking Backpack

Wraifa Waterproof Oxford Small Backpack

Hand Sanitizer

Goes without saying, right? A small sanitizer tube comes everywhere these days, with every child having one clipped to their own day packs, plus the first aid kit, the purse!

6 Empty Travel Hand Sanitizer Bottles Holder

5 Pack 2oz Keychain Empty Squeeze Bottle With Holder

5 Pack 1 oz Keychain Empty Squeeze Bottle With Holder

Sanitizing Wipes

I am sure these have been in every Mom Bag well before COVID germs were a thing. We have long been rubbing down tables and cleaning grubby hands on the go. We do like to keep stronger surface wipes separate from those wet wipes we use on their faces and more sensitive parts of the body.

Lysol Disinfectant Wipes

Wet Ones Antibacterial Hand Wipes

Nice ‘N Clean Moist Flushable Wipes

Spare Toilet Roll

How many bathrooms have you stopped at on a long road trip only to discover there’s no toilet roll? A roll of spare toilet paper is always a handy road trip essential to pack. (And depending on the country you’re in, a few coins, too in case it’s a pay toilet).

Bamboo Toilet Paper by Nature’s Call

Coghlan’s Tissue On The Go

4 Ply Soft Toilet Paper RV Essential

Cooler Box

Important for meals on the go, keep your food fresh using a cooler box. The size really depends on whether you are camping and the cooler will be housing all your food and drinks, or are you simply needing to get the most perishable food from one fridge to the next?

Ivation Electric Cooler & Warmer with Handle | 24 L

K-Box Electric Cooler and Warmer for Car and Home – 34 Quart (32 Liter)

K-box Electric Cooler and Warmer with Wheels for Car and Home – 48 Quart (45 Liter)

On larger camping trips or with a campervan, you may have a plugin fridge that runs off the car battery. All you will need then is a smaller snack pack size cooler needed for day trips. Look to add soft ice packs with your small cooler box to keep drinks cold all day, and restock with ice cubes when you can.

Small Blanket

Easy to grab and go with your picnic lunch stops. A great range of sand-proof and waterproof blankets can fold down extra small, so small they should fit in your daypack and help prevent sand and dirt from making their way back into your vehicle.

Beach Blanket Sandproof Adults Waterproof

KuoSEN Outdoor Picnic Blanket Beach Blanket Sandproof Waterproof 

Beach Blanket, 79”×83” Picnic Blankets Waterproof Sandproof

Cutlery

While we hate to do the dishes on the road, we hate how environmentally damaging plastic waste can be even more. If we’re going disposable, make sure it’s made from recyclable material like bamboo cutlery. Better yet, it’s a great idea to pack your own picnic set if you think you’ll be making frequent roadside stops.

PURPLECLAY Disposable Wooden Utensils Set 360 PCS

Treeatery Compostable Cutlery Set – 380 Value Pack

Weemium Disposable Wooden Cutlery Set – 300 Count 

Bug Spray

It doesn’t take long for the bugs to find you on those roadside stops! Flies, mozzies, midges, gnats, keep yourselves protected with bug spray; look for those gentle on kids’ skin.

US Organic Mosquito Repellent Anti Bug Outdoor Pump Sprays

Bug Soother Spray (2, 8 oz) – Natural Insect, Gnat and Mosquito Repellent & Deterrent

Badger – Anti-Bug Shake & Spray

Sun Hats & Sunscreen

And don’t forget the sun’s harmful rays too. Even on a short trail, playground, or roadside stop, the sun can catch you out on a hot summer’s day. Keep little heads protected with sunhats, and out in the midday sun, remember sunscreen too.

Thinkbaby SPF 50+ Baby Sunscreen

Connectyle Outdoor UPF 50+ Sun Hat

Two Peas Organics – All Natural Organic SPF 50 Sunscreen

Pssst – worried about sunscreen stains in the car? We know; it happens! Follow our tips here for removing those sunscreen stains and a few extra tools you may want for car maintenance, especially on a beach road trip.

Raincoats & Umbrellas

On Winter road trips, you will no doubt have the opposite issue with kids getting wet no matter what you try! You must get everyone out of the car regularly to stretch their legs, so make sure you pack appropriate provisions to deal with the weather, including raincoats and umbrellas.

Repel Umbrella Windproof Travel Umbrella

Columbia Youth Girls’ Switchback II Jacket

ZOOGS Kids Glitter Rain Boots for Girls and Toddlers

You may also want separate rain boots that are kept in the trunk so as not to dirty up the back of the car.

Quick-Dry Towel

You can be sure if there’s any pond, river, or even a puddle on your roadside stop, kids will find it! We love having a few quick-dry towels within easy reach in the trunk (plus a couple of spare outfits) ready for inevitable dampness that happens en route, no matter the season!

Travel Towel – Compact & Ultra Soft Microfiber

ECCOSOPHY Microfiber Beach Towel for Adults

BOGI Microfiber Travel Sports Towel-Quick Dry Towel

Hair Ties

Ladies with long hair will know exactly what we mean! Heading out on a trail, it’s always handy to keep one of these on your wrist – ideal for MacGyver-style repairs on the move, too!

Black Hair Ties for Women Girls

Goody Ouchless Elastic Hair Tie

Hair Ties for Girls Women, Funtopia 30 Pcs

Walkie Talkies

Traveling in convo with another vehicle? A great way to keep in touch with your comrades is a walkie-talkie for your road trip. On the lookout for a great place to stop? Radio on to your next vehicle when you need to pull over or to alert them to any hazards or interesting things to point out along the way.

Motorola T100 Talkabout Radio, 2 Pack

Midland 50 Channel Waterproof GMRS Two-Way Radio

Retevis RT628 Walkie Talkies for Kids

While they can be a novelty fun for the kids and may not be seen as essential, heading anywhere off-road or remote, we think they’re a must-have for a road trip.

Winter Road Trip Essentials List

Traveling in icy or snowy conditions will require you to have a few more road trip essentials to hand. We recommend you also include on your checklist:

De-icer & Scraper

In colder climates or areas prone to frost, it is wise to have de-ice your car with a brush and scraper attachment.

AstroAI 27 Inch Snow Brush and Detachable Ice Scraper

SEAAES 51 Inch Ice Scraper and Snow Brush with Squeegee

EcoNour 27″ Car Snow Brush and Ice Scrapers

Chains

These anti-slip devices are a requirement in certain places. You’ll want a set of these handy to grab in your trunk ready to go in snowy and icy conditions.

WEIZE Snow Chains

Tire Chains for Suvs, Cars, Sedan

Tire Anti-Skid Snow Chains

Defogging Spray

Internal screen fog can be caused by extreme temperature differences. A defogging spray will assist you in quickly clearing screen fog.

Anti-Fog Lens Spray

Car Glass Anti-Fog Rainproof Spray Agent

Visbella Anti Fog Spray for Glass, Windshield of Car

Collapsible Shovel

When all else fails, you may need to get out of the car and make your path in the wintery conditions. These collapsible shovels and gloves are a winter road trip essential for anyone in cold and snowy climates.

Printable Road Trip Checklist

Save time packing for your next family road trip by printing out this road trip packing list, ready to check off items as you go!

Disclosures: We are participants in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. You can read our full privacy and disclosure policies here.

© Family Road Trip

While driving down the highway and your car window fogs up, the first thing you do is blast the defroster. The fog clears but then builds up a few minutes later. 

The same thing happens to the car driver and passenger side windows. The windows fog up, hindering you from seeing your rearview mirrors. You roll your car windows down and back up to eliminate the moisture. But then the fog comes back again. 

And you are left wondering how to stop car windows from fogging up completely. Fortunately, there are ways to escape this seemingly endless cycle of fog recurrence and achieve nirvana. 

What Causes Fogged-Up Car Windows 

Moist, warm air condensing when it hits your car’s colder windshield causes condensation. The air next to the window below a specific temperature is called the dew point.  

Foggy windows could result from many factors, including humidity (inside and outside the car), temperature variations, and chilly weather. 

Humidity 

Humidity (water in the air) causes a buildup in water that turns into water vapor. When you get inside your car, you breathe the humid air. This air comes out from inside your body or off of it. 

Car fogging up inside tends to be more of a problem when there is more than one person in the car since there will be more breathing.  

Surface Tension 

Surface tension is another reason that causes the inside of your car window to fog up. This is because water molecules choose other water molecules to form tiny droplets of water. These droplets will attach to your car windows and cause fog. 

Heat 

Temperature is the action of molecules in motion. Warm air holds more moisture than cold air. This doesn’t mean that molecules are holding onto water molecules. When it’s warmer, more water turns into gas than it is liquid. This creates more space between each molecule with warm air, meaning water molecules thus can fit into this space between molecules.  

How to Quickly Clear Fogged-up Windows 

Understanding how windscreen fog is formed/ created can help you get rid of it depending on the season. Fog gathers on your car’s windshield when a temperature difference in the air meets.  

This means that fog in the summer is formed when your cool windshield hits the hot air outside. On the other hand, winter fog gathers when the warm air in your car meets your cold windshield. 

But whether the fog is inside or outside your car windows, it’s potentially dangerous as it hinders you from having a clear view of all directions. Here is how to ensure that your car windows are clear- no matter the season or weather. 

When the outside is colder than inside your car: 

• Change your air source 

With today’s technology, most cars come equipped with buttons that will allow you to recirculate the air in your car or pull air in from the outside. If you are starting to see fogged-up car windows, you should change the settings so that the air gets pulled up from outside.  

There is probably a button with a little car drawn and an arrow pointing inside the car. Tap this button so that the light above it is on.  

Alternatively, you can tap the button with a car and a circular arrow inside so the light goes off. By so doing, you will be turning off the function that recirculates the air already inside your car. 

• Lower the temperature in your car 

As earlier stated, car windscreen steaming up is caused by the temperature difference; therefore, getting the air temps inside your car to match the air outside will reduce fog. 

Turn your car fans on to the highest setting and turn the air temps down as cold as possible. But be prepared to shiver a bit, as this is the fastest but coldest method. 

• Turn on the defrost vent on with cool air: 

Your car’s defrost vent will direct air straight at your windshield, but the cool air will help your windshield temperature to match the air temperatures outside. This will help get rid of fog on your windshield. 

When it is warmer outside than in your car: 

When the temps and moisture level outside are great compared to the inside of the car, moisture will condense on the exterior of your car glass. Your goals are to change the temperature inside the car to match the outside temperature. 

• Turn down the AC if it is warmer outside: 

If you got water vapor on your car windows during the summer, turn down your air conditioner. Turning down the air conditioner will warm your car and get the inside air temperature to match the outside better.  

You can also opt to open your windows a bit to allow more outside air in, preventing your car from becoming too stifling. 

• Open your car windows: 

Opening your car windows is a quick way to get the temperatures inside to match the outside temperatures. Roll down your car windows as far as you can so that the warm air outside gets into the cool interior of your car. 

Driving with fogged-up car windows can be hazardous, but with the above tips, you can increase your safety while on the road. 

How to Prevent Fogged-Up Windows  

Having to deal with fog while in a rush can be frustrating. To prevent foggy windows in the future, try out these tips. 

Apply some shaving cream to your windshield: 

When buying shaving cream, look for the type that foams up when you squirt it out of the bottle or can. Spray a small portion of the shaving cream unto a soft cotton cloth and spread it over your entire windshield (ensure that you get every part). 

Then using a clean, dry rag, wipe it off. Doing this, you should create a moisture barrier on your car window, thus preventing fog buildup. 

Use silica cat litter

One way to limit moisture on your car windows is to ensure that it ends somewhere else. Fill up a sock with silica cat litter. Tie up the open side of the sock with a piece of string, and then place one or two full socks (packed with silica litter) near the front of your dashboard. 

Placing the socks with silica litter on the dashboard will help absorb the moisture inside your car during the night, preventing any fog buildup. 

You can also opt to buy dehumidifier products

BARSKA Safe Moisture Absorber Dehumidifier

Buy it on Amazon

wisedry Rechargeable Silica Gel Dehumidifier

Buy it on Amazon

Vacplus Fragrance-Free Gel Moisture Packets

Buy it on Amazon

Keep your car windows rolled down if possible

If your car is in a secure area, roll your windows down about half an inch. Rolling your windows down allows some outside air to get into the car and can prevent the windscreen from fogging. 

This method is best practiced during the summertime since you do not want to risk any snow or ice getting into your car during the winter. 

Keep your car clean

Fog needs to cling to something; therefore, the cleaner your windshield is, the less foggy it will be. Your windshield collects particles from the interior and the road outside, creating a film inside your windshield. 

Remember to clean your windshield from time to time. Also, never try to use your hands to wipe away the fog, as it only makes matters worse. 

More Driving & Road Trip Preparation Advice

Whilst the weather can certainly make driving more challenging, there’s no reason without the right preparations steps you can’t continue to road trip year-round.

You may want to dig further into our driving and car care advice series, including:

Tips for Driving in the Winter
How to Prepare For Desert Driving
How to Keep Your Car Clean (even with kids!)
How to Keep a Campervan Heated in Winter

What Items Do I Need In An Emergency Car Kit?

Emergency Car Kit
Battery Booster Pack or Jumper Cables
Multitool
Gloves
Fix a Flat
Battery Backup for Electronics
Anti-Freeze
Snacks
Sunblock
Map
Case
Small Mechanics Tool Kit
First Aid Kit
Flashlight
Flares or Warning Signals
Charging Cord
Water
Wipes
Bug Spray
Toilet Paper

Now, whether or not you want to build your own emergency car kit or just get one that is already packaged for you, that’s up to you to decide. We will go through the items on the list, and you can make the decision that is best for you.

Read down to the end, and you can get a free downloadable PDF copy of what we pack every time we take a family road trip

5. First-Aid Kit

This will probably be the most used item in your emergency car kit. If you opted to go with a prepared kit, as mentioned above, you most likely already have one.  

However, if you have kids or are accident-prone, you may want a beefier first aid kit.  There is no shortage of selection when it comes to selecting a first aid kit. 

6. Gloves

Who wants to get their hands dirty?  I always have gloves.  I like gloves that have a high tactile feel and are sturdy.  When working with lug nuts whilst changing a tire or trying to manipulate a pair of pliers, you need to have control of your tools.  A simple set of gloves like these are awesome for an emergency car kit.

7. Flashlight

Flashlights are not just for emergency car kits.  You should have a flashlight in your car at all times. You never know when you will need it. 

8. Fix-A-Flat

This selection is somewhat controversial.  I always have a can of Fix A Flat or Slime in my truck.  If I have the option, I am going to change to my spare tire; sometimes, though, that is not an option. 

Having Fix A Flat gives you the ability to get back on the road quickly.  It is not ideal in all situations and should be looked at as a last resort.  But you will be thankful you have it if you need it.

9. Flares or Warning Signals

Again, some prepared emergency car kits come with these.  But if not, you want a set.  These will warn other cars that you are on the side of the road.  If our fine highway workers and survey crews use warning flags and signs, there must be something to them.

In lieu of having any warning system, a buddy with a flashlight will do in a pinch. But they aren’t that expensive, and it’s one more layer of safety.

10. Battery Pack Backup and/or Charging Cord

You never know when you are going to break down.  It will probably be when your cell phone is almost dead, which is the last thing you want.  These little backups are small, inexpensive, and easy to carry around.

Now, they shouldn’t go in your emergency car kit per se’.  You will want to keep this in your glove box or center console. Someplace you can get to easy enough so that it can be recharged.  

Or if the weather gets too hot, you can easily grab and carry it with you.  The extreme temperatures will damage the portable battery. 

Wait! Did you find this article during wintertime? You don’t need this stuff during winter. Check out our article on how to build an emergency car kit for winter.

Items For a Summer Emergency Car Kit

All right, so these first few items are general items that you should have with you at all times, no matter the season. 

12. Anti-Freeze or Water

Just like you, your car needs water, but more specifically, antifreeze, even during the summer. Summertime is a prime opportunity for your car to overheat. Having an extra gallon of water or antifreeze in the trunk is essential to ensuring that when your car gets hot, you can fill it up and get to a safe spot. 

Having antifreeze is preferred because it provides a level of lubrication to your engine, and you don’t necessarily have to worry about a change in the winter.

Water will be sufficient, and if you get there, you can also drink the same water. Having a gallon of water in your trunk is also acceptable because you can have some of that, too. Just don’t drink the antifreeze that would be very bad.

We share more tips for driving in the heat in our desert driving tips

13. Snacks

Well, if you have water, you might as well have some snacks to go with it. Just keep in mind that you don’t want anything that’s perishable or can melt in the summer heat. Think high energy and healthy snacks, not sugar-laden.

You want something that’s high in protein and will last a while like a pack or dried nuts or fruit bars.

14. Wipes

What should one of those things that are good to have all the time in your car as well as keep things clean? And your hands up are dirty after you get done changing your tire, so now you have a way to clean them up?

If you have kids or babies, you understand the importance of having wipes in your car.  Heck even having to be an adult it’s good to have wipes in your car.

15. Sunblock

You may think that having sunblock is only for the beach. However, if you think about it, if your car breaks down and you’re on the side of the road, you are not going to be sitting inside the car.

It’s hot in the Summer sun, and you want to have a way to protect yourself while you’re waiting for help to come or waiting for to get your car going again.

16. Bug Spray

I’ve lived in Maine, and I lived in Florida, and no matter where you’re at there are bugs in the summertime. So, have a can of bug spray or some sort of bug repellent that you can apply to yourself.

You will be an easy target sitting on the side of the road or wherever you’re broken down if you don’t have any bug protection. Even if it’s not an emergency, you have some there just in case if you’re out.

17. Toilet Paper

Ummmm, I’m not going to write much here. Maybe it should be at the top of my list. You know what you need this for.

18. Paper Map

At the very least, it will give you an idea of where you are going.

In my humble opinion, reading a map is becoming a lost art. What happens if your GPS fails? Maybe I am old-fashioned, but I always have a paper atlas when I travel.

Essentials you’ll want in your car for any sort of cold weather travel

Traveling during the cold winter months can be a dicey prospect, whether you are commuting to work or traveling for recreation. Careful planning and preparation are necessary in order for you to be safe on the road.

Accidents can happen at any time, and preparation is key in order for you to come through safely.  Preparing an emergency kit for the cold weather doesn’t need to be a daunting task.

First, you need to figure out what you are going to need. Are you going on a winter road trip? Do you have a long commute? How will you be traveling in the cold, snowy weather? So, what should you have in your emergency car kit when the cold weather months are upon us?

These items are listed in no particular order. There are so many items that you could pack, but what do you actually need? That depends on your particular driving situation. Look through the list and figure out what you are going to need in order to build the perfect winter emergency car kit. 

Items For Winter Emergency Car Kit

This is an extensive list of items and you probably won’t need everything on this list, but let’s take a look at these items to determine what you need.

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Essentials You Should Always Travel With in Winter

Emergency Car Kit

Let’s just start at the top: an emergency car kit should be a staple for every vehicle.  It contains many of the items that you will need should you break down.

For a relatively low investment, you can have peace of mind that if something should happen, you will have the basics.  Emergency car kits are available with a variety of choices, so what do you need?

A basic emergency car kit contains only the first aid kit; this is a relatively inexpensive option, but it won’t help if your vehicle breaks down. On the other end of the scale, there are emergency car kits that contain jumper cables, air compressors, tire repair kits, etc. You would truly be ready for nearly anything that could happen.

Most likely, somewhere in the middle is where you would fall. An emergency car kit with a small tool kit and jumper cables would suit your needs. So, what are your needs? Are you commuting back and forth to work? Are you taking a long road trip? Are you going away for the weekend? All of this will determine what level of emergency car kit you need.

Having an emergency car kit is a great start. But most are not geared specifically toward cold weather.  You will need to augment your own personal car emergency kit with items specific to dealing with cold temperatures.

The HAIPHAIK Emergency Roadside Toolkit from Amazon is a great place to start. It’s one of the few kits that come with a shovel. It lacks a first aid kit, but if you want to start building your own kit. This is a good place to begin.

Jumper Cables

If these are not included with your emergency car kit then you should absolutely have a set with you.  You never know when you will need them.

If you don’t know what you are looking for, then click over here to see what size jumper cables you need.

Also, there are some other considerations that you need to keep in mind.  Like what does the red and black on the jumper cables mean?

Choosing jumper cables is not complicated, but you should be educated before you make your choice.

Flashlight

Another staple that should be in all cars, no matter what season is a flashlight.  However, for cold weather, special consideration needs to be made to the type of battery that your flashlight uses.  

Cold weather will affect all batteries, but your regular alkaline Double A’s will be affected by the cold much more than a lithium-ion battery.  Even though the flashlights are stored in the car, the constant cold will eventually drain them. Then, when you need to use them, and you will, the batteries will be dead. 

Also, look for an LED flashlight.  The LED bulb has much more versatility than a conventional bulb and will be more useful in cold weather.  The LED bulb does not get hot like a conventional light bulb, so in extremely cold weather conditions, they are less likely to break.  They also draw less power from the batteries, so an LED flashlight will last a bit longer in the cold weather.

Finally, use rechargeable batteries or a rechargeable flashlight.  By maintaining a regular routine of recharging the batteries, you will always have a flashlight ready to go in case of an emergency.

Gloves

An extra pair of gloves is always good to have in the cold.  A nice set of wool gloves or even mittens is essential to have in your car kit because once your hands and fingers get cold, it is very difficult to warm them back up again.  

Also, you never know when you are going to need to touch something that has been exposed to the cold.  This will chill your fingers even faster. Gloves are good for keeping your hands and fingers warm, even if you have to do some work outside in the cold.

A nice pair of wool gloves will do the trick nicely.  What you should really look for would be something that is waterproof or, at the very least, water-resistant.  Because once your hands and fingers get cold AND wet, it will be very hard to recover from that.

De-icer

This stuff runs along the lines of fixing a flat in your car; you don’t know when you are going to need it until you need it.  I have used this stuff to get my car doors open when they were frozen shut and to scrape a layer of ice off my windshield.

I always liked having a can in the car because you just never know.  The one thing to keep in mind is that it does not work well when extremely cold.  If it sits in your trunk for too long, you may need to warm it up a bit before it will work properly.

Blanket

You always want to have a blanket in the car during the winter months.  During the cold winter months in Maine, we always had at least one blanket in the car, just in case.  If you break down, you will be very thankful that you have a blanket to keep you and your family warm.

What kind of blanket do you need?  The first thing that people think of when it comes to having an emergency blanket is the metallic space blanket. To be sure, these blankets serve their purpose. However, a warm wool blanket is the way you want to go. A space blanket will not keep you warm when it’s 20 degrees outside and the temperature is falling.

Think of it this way. When you go camping, you don’t bring a pad and a space blanket and expect to stay warm. You have a sleeping bag to keep yourself warm and dry. The same principle applies to ‘camping’ in your car when you break down.

This is especially important when you have babies in the car. Babies tend to get cold quickly, so having an extra blanket or two is a good idea. You also want to make sure they are kept warm in their car seat.

Batteries

Spare batteries are always good to have.  You keep spare batteries in your house. You had better keep them in the car as well.  Again, lithium-ion batteries are the best to keep in your emergency kit. They have a good shelf life, and they don’t leak.

Regular alkaline batteries will freeze and leak in freezing cold temperatures. This will do you no good when you are in an emergency situation. It will also damage the device that they are in.

First Aid Kit

This should be a staple in any car, any time of year.  Pick a first aid kit that will satisfy you and your family’s needs. 

Your first aid kit should include various size bandages, gauze, antibiotic ointment, and wrap. All the things you may need if you cut your hand changing your spare tire.

Ice Scraper

Don’t underestimate a good ice scraper.  These things are invaluable because, you know, they let you see where you are going.  You should have one of these in your car during the winter at all times, not just in an emergency car kit.  

I always carried two with me. One was extendable and had a brush on one end, with a typical ice scraper on the other end. I would brush any loose stuff off first and then follow up with some hardcore scraping.  

I always liked an ice scraper with a metal handle and rubber blade.  These always did a superior job of getting ice off of my windows.  

Tool Kit

Again a basic that should be in your car, any time of the year.  It doesn’t need to be a 199-piece set. Just something simple with pliers, screwdrivers, work gloves, wrenches, and a small ratchet set.

We are not talking about extensive mechanical work here. I am talking about having a screwdriver to pry the hubcap off of your wheels.

Multitool

In lieu of a tool kit, a multi-tool, such as a Leatherman, is your best bet.  I carry one of these around with me wherever I go, regardless of the season.

With a multi-tool, you have a set of pliers, a knife, a screwdriver (Phillips and flat head), a file, etc.  You never know when you are going to need it, but you’ll be glad you have it when you do. 

Cell phone

This one goes without saying.  This is probably your most important tool if you find yourself in an emergency situation.  Just make sure it’s charged or that you have an additional power source with you. Which leads me to…

Battery Power Pack for Electronic Devices

These babies are handy to have and inexpensive. We have one charged up and ready to go for hurricane season here in Florida. The only thing you have to do is make sure it’s charged and that you actually have it with you.  

Like all batteries, it is susceptible to cold weather, so it needs to be brought into the warmth at night.  Don’t leave it in your console or in your emergency car kit. There is a risk that the battery will die when exposed to extreme conditions.  

We use our cell phones for everything, so the likelihood of having a drained battery is pretty good.  It’s nice to know that you have a little extra power if you need it.

Shovel

There may be no more important tool than a shovel when you are traveling in cold weather especially if there is snow in the forecast.  

When you find yourself stuck in the snow or ice, your best friend will be your shovel.  Anytime you need to get unstuck, the shovel is the tool of choice. Be it you are stuck in a parking space because the plow truck pushed snow up behind your car? Or you find yourself on the side of the road because you got stuck in a rut.  

A shovel combined with a good set of traction mats, and you could possibly free yourself from a bad situation. 

Medications

This will not apply to everyone. But it’s something you need to keep in mind if you have specialized meds that you need to take. At the very least, you may want to have some pain relievers with you, just in case.

Snacks (Non-Perishable/ High Protein)

It’s bad enough being stuck on the side of the road and not being able to get where you were going.  It almost adds insult to injury to be hungry at such a time.  

Have healthy snacks like granola bars, almonds, crackers, and beef jerky at your disposal. You want something calorie-rich that will last a while. You don’t know how long you are going to be stuck.

If you have children in the car, make sure that you have snacks appropriate for them.  They will make a stressful situation worse if they are hungry. 

Extra Items (To Make Being Stuck Less Terrible)

The list above describes the essentials that you should have in your emergency car kit for cold weather.  If you want to be uber-prepared for cold weather, continue reading.

These are items that are not essential but nice to have if you happen to get stranded in cold weather.

Traction Mats

As I have said before, if I had known about these when I lived in Maine, I would have invested in a set.  

For most of us, we are driving to work, school, and dropping off the kids, it’s pretty basic. In cold weather, basics can become complicated. A little patch of ice, some packed down snow, and you are not going anywhere.

Traction mats give you the ability to get unstuck and go again, all on your own. Potentially, with a little bit of digging and placing these bad boys in the right spot. You should be going again.

The best part is, they are portable and don’t take up a lot of room in the trunk.

Looking for Tire Traction Mats?

Check out my recommendations on the best tire traction mats for you. Click the button to find out more Read More

Air Compressor

A portable air compressor is always nice to have. They can either be part of a jump starter pack or a stand-alone unit that plugs into the cigarette lighter.

When you are on the road, an air compressor has one job. To keep your tires inflated.  If you pick up a nail or discover that your spare tire is flat. Rather than using some Fix-a-Flat, an air compressor will get your tire back to where it needs to be so you can continue on your journey.

Remember you don’t want to over or under inflate your tires, so check your PSI before you get back on the road.  Also, keep in mind that you may have a slow leak. Inflating the tire with an air compressor may only be a temporary measure.

You may need to have the tire professionally fixed.  But at least you were able to get moving on your own terms.

Emergency Road Flares

No, these are not the ones you fire out of a flare gun.  As much fun as that is, road flares get ignited and placed on the road to warn other drivers.

These are nice if you don’t want to get creamed while you are waiting on the side of the road.  These signal other drivers that you are in distress. Some emergency car kits come equipped with emergency flares.

Just a word of caution: please be careful when using emergency flares.  They are very hot and can cause serious burns if not used properly.

Hazard Triangles or Led Flashers

A safer alternative and perhaps a bit more long-lasting alternative to emergency road flares are hazard triangles or flashers.  These, too, warn oncoming drivers that there is a broke down vehicle.

However, they do it without the flames.  Also, they are reusable. All in all, these are probably a better solution than road flares.  You do need to make sure that you have a good battery in the flashers, though.

Extra Clothes

Why would you need to carry a spare set of clothes?  Usually, when it’s cold, there is snow and ice. Snow and ice melt and make your clothes wet.  Wet clothes make you cold and put you at risk of hypothermia.

Or just having some extra clothing to wrap around you like a blanket.  Anything to keep you insulated if you happen to be stranded somewhere.

At the very least, carry a pair of insulated socks.  Cold feet are the worst and are high-risk candidates for frostbite.  

Paper Map

A what now?  Yes, before Google Maps, there were paper maps that showed where roads would lead. “ Why on Earth would I need a paper map? I have my phone.”  

Yes, you may have your GPS. I use mine all the time. But what happens when you have no signal? What are you going to do?  Whenever I am making a trip out of town, I have a paper map with me. There is something nostalgic about being able to navigate with your wits.

You don’t need one for your daily commute, obviously.  However, if you are planning a long road trip, it may not be a bad idea to carry one with you as a backup. Learn how to read a map, it will be one more tool for you.

Lighter/Waterproof matches

The ability to start a fire seems to be universal when it comes to survival.  Matches and lighter help that along tremendously. Now, obviously no one wants to be caught out of doors in the winter. However, if you are, you will need a fire to keep you warm.

Which leads us to the next item…

Candle Powered Heater

With a few tea lights and a coffee can, you can create a rudimentary heater for your car.  Please be careful not to set the interior of your car on fire.

With the proper candles, this will generate enough heat to keep you warm until a tow truck arrives and gets you going again.  

Continuing with this theme…

Fire Extinguisher

If things go badly with your candle-powered heater, you need a way to put out the fire.  Fire extinguishers come in a variety of sizes

Check over here for the best fire extinguishers for your car.

If you don’t need it for yourself, you will at least be in a position to help someone else in an emergency.

Tow Strap

What I wouldn’t have given for a tow strap when I got run off the road in Maine.  There I was completely helpless. I was totally unprepared…shame on me.

With a good tow strap, another vehicle, and someone willing to give you a hand, you can get yourself unstuck from many situations.

Find a secure spot on your vehicle and attach it to a secure spot on another vehicle some gentle pulling and you should be back on the road again.

These are almost a necessity if you do any offroading, but that is a different topic.

One last note: while it is good to have one, you should probably have some experience with a tow strap. Or, at the very least, have someone with some experience show you how to use one.  

You can do some serious damage to your car or the other person’s car if these are placed in the wrong positions.  

Rope 

There are substitutes for almost everything.  A rope is a great substitute for a tow strap. Make sure it is a good length, and it is a solid rope.

The same warnings apply to know how to use one. 

Pen and paper

Even in this digital age, a pen and paper are useful to have.  Like many other items on this list, you won’t know you need them until you do.

You may need to write down directions on how to perform a certain task. More likely, you will need to leave a note for someone.  

Whatever the case, it’s good to have.

Fix-A-Flat

Ah, good ol’ Fix-A-Flat.  No matter how you feel about this product; if it means getting you to a hotel for the night, I think you will use it.  I would.

Remember, it’s not a permanent fix, but it may get you to a safe and warm place.

The one drawback to Fix-A-Flat is that it doesn’t like the cold weather. So don’t leave it in the extreme temps for too long.

More Winter Travel Tips & Inspiration

Whilst the wintery weather certainly curtails a lot of road tripping adventures as roads become icy and inaccessible, but there are still plenty of places across the United States where you can have fabulous winter adventures.

If you’re still keen to hit the road this winter, check out next:

The Most Magical Christmas Destinations in the US
Canada’s Best Winter Family Holiday Destinations
Best US Winter Wonderlands For A Cold Weather Vacation
Epic US National Parks that are even better in the winter!
Here’s how to prepare you and your vehicle for a winter road trip
Escaping the Cold? Our favorite warm weather winter road trip destinations

Road trips are undoubtedly fun. They allow you to spend time with family and friends, see the country, and make memories. But you must plan carefully because a good trip can wear you out. Why do road trips make you tired?

More importantly, how can you fight this tiredness?

From being stuck in the same position for many hours to not eating properly, here are five reasons why road trips tire you and what you can do to conquer your fatigue. Buckle up and enjoy the read.

5 Main Reasons Road Trips Make You Tired

1. You’re Stuck in the Same Position for Hours

One of the main reasons why road trips make you tired is because you’re stuck in the same position for hours on end. This can cause your body to stiffen and feel uncomfortable, leading to fatigue.

To combat this, make sure to take frequent breaks to move around and stretch your legs. And if you can, try to find a comfortable position in your seat so you’re not constantly shifting around.

2. You’re Not Sleeping Well

Another reason why road trips make you tired is that it can be hard to get a good night’s sleep when you’re on the road. If you’re sharing a room with other people, you may be kept up by their snoring or movement.

If you’re camping, you may not be used to sleeping in a tent. To get better sleep while on a road trip, bring a noise machine or earplugs to help block out any unwanted noise. And make sure to wear comfortable clothing so you can rest easy.

5. You’re Not Used to the Time Change

If you’re traveling to a different time zone, it can take your body a few days to adjust. This can lead to fatigue because your body is still on its old schedule. To combat this, adjust to the new time zone gradually by changing your sleep and eating schedule a few days before your trip. And when you’re on the road, make sure to get plenty of rest so your body can adjust.

Is It Normal to Be Tired After a Road Trip?

Yes, it is normal to be tired after a road trip. A long stretch of road can be hypnotizing. The drone of the road and the sun in your eyes can take their toll. Add to that the constant awareness of what’s going on around you, and you can be very tired after a road trip.

A road trip can be both exhilarating and exhausting, so taking breaks along the way and packing the right snacks to stay energized is important. Here are some tips on how to make your next road trip as energizing as possible!

4 Top Tips To Fight Road Trip Tiredness

Before your next long road trip, consider these 4 steps to tackle tiredness:

Get a Good Night’s Sleep Before You Hit the Road

If you’re planning a road trip, you might be tempted to hit the road as early as possible to get a head start on your journey. But before you hit the accelerator, you must ensure you’re well-rested.

Driving long distances can be fatiguing, and drowsy driving is a major safety hazard. According to the National Sleep Foundation, drowsy driving is a factor in 100,000 car accidents each year.

To help avoid becoming part of this statistic, plan to get a good night’s sleep before embarking on your journey. If possible, start your trip early in the morning, when you’ll likely feel most alert.

Bring Good Snacks

When you’re on the go, it’s important to have snacks and drinks that will give you sustained energy. Sugary snacks may give you a quick burst of energy, but it won’t last long before you crash.

What’s worse, you’ll likely be even more tired than before you ate the sugary snack. That’s why it’s important to bring snacks and drinks that will give you sustained energy, like nuts, fruit, and water.

Nuts are a great source of protein and healthy fats, which will help keep your energy levels up. Fruit is also a good choice as it contains natural sugars that will give you a slow and steady release of energy.

And finally, water is essential for keeping your body hydrated, which is crucial for maintaining energy levels. So, next time you’re packing your bag for a busy day, make sure to include some snacks and drinks that will give you sustained energy – not a sugar spike.

Have Fun Activities Planned

Dull highway stretches can lead to ‘car’ fever, so it’s important to plan ahead and have a few fun activities ready.

• Rest stops are the perfect opportunity to get out and stretch your legs, and they also make a great spot for a picnic lunch or find somewhere with a short walking trail. Use apps like RoadTrippers to plot your route in advance with regular stops.

• Bring along a ball or frisbee to help burn off some energy.

• Have some engaging podcasts or audiobooks to listen to in the car.

• When all else fails, there’s always the age-old favorite: family car games! From license plate bingo to counting cows, there are plenty of ways to keep everyone entertained on even the longest road trip.

• Traveling with tweens and teens, you may also enjoy a few rounds of road trip trivia games which are great for keeping the brain alert.

Take Regular Breaks

Nothing is more important than safety on the road, and that means taking a few extra minutes to take care of yourself.

When you’re driving, be sure to take breaks often to stretch your legs and get some fresh air, even just 2 to 3 minutes of body movement and stretches can help immensely. It may not seem like much, but these small breaks can help you stay alert and focused on the road.

If you start to feel sleepy during the drive, don’t wait for your eyelids to feel heavy; pull over at a rest stop and take a brief nap (possibly easier said than done if you’re traveling with kids! It’s always better to be safe than sorry.

Following these tips, you should be able to make it through your next road trip without feeling too tired afterwards.

Just remember to take your time and enjoy the scenery along the way!

Hands up who can profess to actually know anything about their car, other than how to drive it?

This was pretty much me until I moved to the desert. If you are living in extreme climates such as the desert in the Middle East, or deep in the US Southwest it’s essential to understand not only how the heat can impact your vehicle, but also the first steps to take when things go wrong!

This is not a 4-wheel drive “how to” or off-roading guide, but a simple survival guide for your everyday driver who may find themselves on a desert road trip and confronting difficult conditions in a foreign place.

Dealing with dusty conditions, extreme heat, tire blowouts and engine failure are just a few examples of what desert driving can throw at the inexperienced driver.

Do you have a car? Do you drive? Then this blog post is for YOU! We’re going to talk about why having a dashcam in your car can be important. There are so many people on the road these days, that one day something is bound to happen.

And BAM! There, you are ready to catch it. Is it something weird, is it an accident, are you a parent worried about your kid? There are many reasons why it is important to have a dashcam. Let’s take a look at a few.

A dashcam records everything that happens while you’re driving, so it’s like being able to watch your back 24/7. Let’s get started! Here are 12 reasons why owning a dashcam is important for everyone in the car.

You Have First-Hand Evidence Of A Car Accident
A Dashcam Can Help You Prevent Fraud  By Identifying Vandals and Hit-and-Runs
The Dash Cam Is Awesome For Worried Parents
Proof to Get out of a Ticket
A Dash Cam Is The Perfect Solution For Reckless Drivers
Dash Cams Have A Ton Of Useful Extra Features And Functions
Perfect for Driving Instructors
You Could Save Thousands of Dollars
You Can Record Your Entire Road Trip
Monitor Drivers In Fleet or Commercial Vehicles
Could Possibly Help You When Dealing With Unethical People
You can document all of the weird stuff that goes on in this world

You Have First-Hand Evidence Of A Car Accident

Some people are very skeptical about the use of dashcams because they don’t know what they could potentially be used for. However, if you’re involved in an accident with someone else, there’s a chance that you’ll be able to get some important evidence on them by having a dashcam.

Even if you’re not involved in an accident, chances are that you can film the person who commits a hit-and-run and share their footage on social media.

The best thing about this type of footage is that it’s all first-hand – you can’t dispute its authenticity the way that people sometimes do with other types of evidence, such as photographs and video footage.

A Dash Cam Is The Perfect Solution For Reckless Drivers

I don’t know about you, but I think I am a pretty good driver. I’m sure you feel similarly, not about me but yourself. You see, that’s a problem because the general attitude of most drivers is that they’re better than other people on the road.

This can make it difficult for you to deal with reckless drivers because they are a menace on the road, and it doesn’t look like the trend is getting any better. But now, at least, you have footage of their bad driving.

If it is someone you know, you can show them footage to show them their mistakes and hopefully get them to change their driving habits for the better. 

Or if you catch a random act of stupidity, you now have footage of that which can be used as evidence against them.

The Dash Cam Is Awesome For Worried Parents

This is something that I will be dealing with in a few short years. A dash cam is perfect for parents who want to keep track of where their children are. With something like a GPS tracker, you can see where they are, but it’s not the same as seeing them on film.

Most car accidents happen during the day, so if you’re worried about your children driving to and from school or partying with their friends, installing a dash cam will give you peace of mind and enable you to keep an eye on what they’re doing.

A camera is a great teaching tool that can also be used as a tracking device for parents who are concerned about their children’s driving habits.  Why not use a dashcam as a lesson planner and keep track of your kid’s driving habits? Why not? Why not use a dashcam for its features for tracking and recording lessons?

Good For Driving Instructor

A car dashcam is indeed very important for driving instructors and parents. Why? If you are a driving instructor or parent, it would be very beneficial if the learner has a recording device to assist them in their driving lessons. That way, they have something to show you where they went wrong when they made mistakes during the course of the lesson.

You Can Record Your Entire Road Trip

Recording everything for posterity is an amazing way to review what you have seen on your trip. You can replay it and reminisce about the sights or any other memories that made a special impression on you while on a road trip.

Could Possibly Help You When Dealing With Unethical People

It’s a sad world we live in but a reality we all must face. There are many unethical people out there who, at any given moment, can spark a violent reaction. This could happen at any time and any place.

If you have been a victim of an unethical person, then it would be evidence against them to help prosecute their actions in court to get justice done.  Dashcam footage can be used as evidence against someone who did bad or illegal behavior.

A Dashcam Can Help You Prevent Fraud  By Identifying Vandals and Hit-and-Runs

If you are involved in a hit-and-run, or your car is vandalized, a dash cam can help identify the culprit and provide evidence to report it. You can use a dashcam as evidence against people who committed vandalism. 

If you are involved in a hit-and-run, or your car is vandalized, a dash cam can help identify the culprit and provide evidence to report it.

Proof to Get out of a Ticket

So, this particular use does have some caveats. First, you shouldn’t be breaking the law! But stuff happens, and sometimes we get caught.

Now, having a dashcam may or may not prove to be helpful, depending on the type of traffic offense that you committed. Speeding tickets may be more difficult to get out of because dashcams with GPS have not been validated as an official source for speed accuracy.

This is in contrast to a police radar gun, which is often calibrated and considered to be very accurate. So, if you are going 5-10 miles per hour over the speed limit, you may have difficulty proving your innocence.

However, if you are accused of exceeding the speed limit and you were not, you may have a little bit more wiggle room to prove your case.

Now, a dashcam could prove useful in proving your innocence in running a red light or a stop sign. You can show more definitive proof in this type of situation—it’s been done before.

Lastly, I must say I do not condone the breaking of traffic laws. They are there for a reason: to protect us. But things don’t run perfectly, so another perspective is useful. We should all do our best to obey the traffic laws for everyone’s safety.

I make no guarantees that having a dashcam will get you out of a ticket. I merely present it as a reason you may want to purchase one.

Dash Cams Have A Ton Of Useful Extra Features And Functions

Many dashcams actually have a ton of useful extra features like GPS tracking, lane monitoring, speed cameras, voice activation, etc. Why not take advantage of the many functions and additional features your dashcam offers.

Using your dashcam’s additional capabilities as well will make you more attentive to your driving and help ensure a safe journey.

You Could Save Thousands of Dollars

If you ever experience an accident, then having video evidence can save you thousands of dollars in court costs, so why not invest in something that could potentially save you money down the road?

Dashcams have been proven to be an invaluable safety tool that can prevent you from making costly mistakes. In a time of increased customer fraud and hit-and-runs, it’s important to get documentation for one’s claim. Dashcams also provide insurers with better information on potential claims so they know who is covered

Monitor Drivers In Fleet or Commercial Vehicles

If you have a fleet of commercial vehicles like taxis, buses, trucks, etc., then having a camera installed will help you monitor your drivers and spot any illegal activity that may be occurring within them as well. 

You can use dashcam technology to ensure that all your drivers are following the rules. This is a way to keep track of what they’re doing on the road while also making sure it’s safe for everyone involved.

You Can Document All of the Weird Stuff That Goes On in This World

You can capture some cool stuff with a dashcam, like all the scenic views and sights your drive offers. The dashcam is perfect to record your trip along with anything important that happens while you travel. You can even capture cool stuff with the camera that is in the car, so it never goes unseen.

Final Thoughts…

It’s not just for car accidents, reckless drivers, and hit-and-run incidents. A dashcam can also be a perfect teaching tool to help teach your kids how to drive (or at least keep an eye on them). You could even use it as a great way of tracking their progress. Although, I don’t think they will see it like this, but… oh well.

Besides proof if you disagree with another driver, you can record long road trips. Are dashcams necessary? Probably not, but given the society we live in, it’s not a bad idea to have one, either.

There you have it: 12 good reasons to own a dashcam. So what are you waiting for? For starters, here is an excellent choice for testing the waters. It is the Rexing V1P. Go check it out!

Rexing V1P 4K Dual Channel Dash Cam

You May Want to Check Out Next

• Will a dashcam drain my car battery? Three things you need to know
• 5 Ways to Protect Your Dashcam From the Heat or Cold
• Will my Dashcam Work Without an SD card?
• Should you use a portable baby monitor in your car?

Dashcams are a nifty piece of technology. I mean, who doesn’t want the surety that comes with having a record of your actions on the road? However, like all things electronic in a car, there is the potential to have that device siphon power from the battery. This article will address the question, will a dashcam drain my car battery?

Unfortunately, the answer is ‘YES’ it will. The good news, however, is there are ways to prevent your battery from being drained.

Before we get to that, though, let’s discuss why a dashcam may drain your battery.

How Can a Dashcam Drain Your Battery?

The battery will be drained by the dashcam because of three main reasons:

1. Dashcams will automatically start recording when you turn on your car, which will also drain your battery. Now, this will not be such an issue if your car is running. However, if you simply turn your key to the ‘ON’ or ‘ACC’ position, you will run the risk of draining your battery.
2. Dashcams also leave the light on when operating, which will shorten the life of the battery.  Again, if your car is running and drawing power from the alternator, this is not an issue.  But, if you are running on pure battery power, you do run the risk of having your car battery die.
3. A third reason is that some cars require a constant connection to their GPS system and this too will deplete your batteries much faster than it would without a dashcam installed.

Can I Leave My Dashcam Plugged Into A Cigarette Lighter?

The short answer is ‘Yes,’ you can. However, you still run the risk of draining your battery.

One fellow left his device plugged in for three days, and his vehicle started just fine. The amount of power that a powered-down dashcam draws is very low, so three days was no big deal. 

But if you are going to have your car stored for any length of time, it’s probably best to unplug your dashcam and all of your devices. Eventually, this will drain your battery. And you will have the unpleasant experience of finding yourself with a dead battery.

This leads to the question we posed at the beginning of the article:

How Do You Stop the Dashcam from Draining Your Car Battery?

Keeping your dashcam from draining your car battery depends on two basic things.

1. Whether or not the dashcam is connected properly, and
2. Take advantage of some built-in dashcam safety features

If you are plugging your dashcam into a power outlet, make sure to keep it unplugged when not in use. As you probably know, most modern cars have a continuous power outlet and one that turns off when the car turns off. 

Just be mindful of which outlet you are using. If you don’t need your dashcam plugged in, unplugging it is the safest thing. But, if you do need it to be on most of the time, option 2 is what you need.

Option 2 requires hardwiring your dashcam to your car’s electrical system. Dashcams usually come with an installation kit that includes all necessary items, such as a dashcam mount and wires.

Installing one can take under 15 minutes, depending on how long it takes you to find where you would like it mounted before getting started! Now, I am not recommending this to everyone. There is a certain level of mechanical aptitude that is needed before installing a dashcam this way. 

If you choose to hardwire your dashcam to the car, do your research!  And possibly consider hiring a professional to do it for you.

One more option you have to keep your dashcam from draining your car battery is getting a dashcam battery. Obviously, this will supply power from an external source and this may be the option for you. Let’s look at this a little further.

Final Thoughts

Will a dashcam kill your car battery? Yes, it will, but only if you don’t take the proper precautions when installing your new piece of tech.

The key points to remember when using a dashcam are:

1. Use the proper installation kit and equipment.  If necessary, seek the help of professionals to install your dashcam.
2. Make sure that if your dashcam comes with built-in safety features, these are engaged.  So you don’t find yourself with a dead car battery.

Dashcams should remain unplugged when not in use to avoid draining the battery. To extend its life, always ensure that your dashcam has a continuous power supply by plugging it into the vehicle’s cigarette lighter as needed.

Are you doing some research to see if you want to purchase a dashcam? If so, check out this article on 12 reasons why you should have a dashcam.
If you will in or will be visiting a place prone to extreme heat or cold temperatures, make sure you have a dash cam that can cope with weather extremes
Will you need to purchase an SD card in addition to your dashcams internal storage? We look at the dashcam with the largest internatl storage – but why you’ll likelt still want an external SD card to store your dashcam footage.