In a season of advertising and marketing drawing upon nostalgia — especially with the big automakers — white, powdery country roads and snow-capped mountains set the tone. Of course, anybody with a driver’s license knows better. The white stuff is not so pretty to drive through, even if it means the family will avoid the insanity of airports. And to that another reality, the United States has so many different climates.
Los Angeles-based mechanic Rebekah Fleischaker starts with season-less, common-sense advice, such as carrying basic items like water, healthy non-perishable snacks, good walking shoes, regular or electric (“road disks”) flares and towel or rag in case you need to do the dirty work of checking out the vehicle when broken down. She will always strongly encourage filling up with the highest-octane gas possible to get the best mileage to run smoothly in all climates. However, advance preparation is key as the main objective — even with commercial-worthy scenery — is to get to and from your destination safely.
“Communicate with your mechanic that your trip will take you into a different climate zone, and be sure to ask him or her to check the condition of your tires and air pressure, fluids, belts, hoses, and brakes,” she says. “It is important the mechanic is clear on what’s being checked in order to make decisions such as determining the coolant to water proportions in the cooling system. Also, with tire pressure, be sure to look on the driver’s side door jamb for a sticker that indicates the correct tire pressure for your specific make and model rather than what’s printed on the actual tire.”
If you are going from flat terrain to mountains, or particularly snowy areas (such as Yosemite National Park, or other nature reserves and ski areas), snow cables or chains for tires are not just a must, but a requirement to enter those areas. Fleischaker favors cables, as they do not rip up the tire as much. While a mechanic can show customers how to attach the cables or chains, in a pinch (with advance research or good signage) you can pay for somebody to put them on near the snowy area you will be entering.
“Other parts of the car also need to be prepared for weather extremes,” she continues. “If you are planning on traveling in snow, you will also want to wax the vehicle before you go in order to keep a layer between your vehicle’s paint and the salt from the roads. When you return, be sure to clean the undercarriage to remove the salt that has been deposited there.”
While navigation apps can help one find and travel along a route between your home and the destination, Fleischaker advises to plan ahead for both emergencies and other more mundane issues, such as gas stops, food and restroom breaks.
“Most major freeways will have service stations or truck stops along the way, but if you are ‘off-roading’ or taking a scenic way like Route 66, take note of prominent towns on the way that can service your vehicle if an emergency arises,” she says.
“Plan your stops ahead if you can, and how many miles you can realistically travel in a day. Also be prepared for the fact that drives through rural areas in the middle of the country require more planning, with so many stops and towns further apart. You do not want to run out of gasoline and get stranded. Also, do not drive tired, as it is easy to have an accident if you are nodding off. If you do break down, of course, try to get to a safe location off the highway or freeway that’s well lit.”
Read This Next
#WhereverFamily
Insta FeedDestinations / Europe
Oct 31, 2024Your Food Guide to Disneyland Paris
Family travelers headed to Disneyland Paris in the near future should keep these dining options in mind when visiting. A recent study done by Disneyland Tickets took a look at Trip Advisor reviews to decide the top quick service, table service and buffet restaurants at Disneyland Paris.
Sponsored Content
Discover the Magic of East Crete: A Perfect Family Getaway
East Crete is a blend of stunning landscapes, history and charming towns, making it an ideal family destination. Far from the crowds of the west, the region offers pristine beaches, ancient sites and authentic Cretan villages.
Hotels
Oct 31, 2024Fairmont Hotel Vancouver Launches Meals That Matter
Family travelers can give back to local elementary school students through Fairmont Hotel Vancouver’s Elementary School Program, Meals that Matter. The program provides local students facing food insecurity with healthy, hearty and nutritious take-home dinners throughout the school year.
Slideshow
Oct 31, 20248 Auckland, New Zealand, Destinations for Family Travel
It’s time to start dreaming of your next family trip. Here’s some destination inspiration for you. Take a visual journey through Auckland, New Zealand, with us.
Destinations / Europe
Oct 30, 2024Roman Sites for Kids in England
Wherever your family travels in England, you won’t be far from a Roman site where children can walk in the footsteps of Romans who occupied England nearly 2,000 years ago. From the time they first study them in school, most kids are fascinated by the Romans, and several of these sites have programs especially designed to engage kids.
Destinations
Oct 30, 2024Survey Reveals Top 10 Domestic and International Thanksgiving Destinations
Allianz Partners USA recently revealed the results of its annual Top 10 Thanksgiving Destinations Index. The travel insurance company reviewed more than 750,000 travel itineraries around the Thanksgiving holiday. Flights departing Nov. 23–28 and returning Nov. 29–Dec. 3 were considered in the study.
ShareThis