How to Prepare for Snowstorms While Traveling

Winter travel can quickly turn from picturesque to perilous when snowstorms strike without warning. According to the Federal Highway Administration, nearly 70% of the U.S. population lives in regions that receive more than 5 inches of annual snowfall, making snowstorm preparedness essential for millions of travelers. Whether you’re planning a holiday road trip, a business journey, or a winter vacation, knowing how to prepare for and respond to unexpected winter weather can mean the difference between a minor inconvenience and a life-threatening emergency.

At Batten Emergency, our team has helped thousands of travelers develop comprehensive winter travel safety plans. We’ve seen firsthand how proper preparation can transform potential disasters into manageable situations. This guide will walk you through practical steps to prepare for snowstorms while traveling, ensuring you have the knowledge, supplies, and confidence to handle whatever winter throws your way.

Understanding Snowstorm Risks for Travelers

Before diving into preparation strategies, it’s crucial to understand the specific risks snowstorms pose to travelers. Winter storms combine dangerous cold, blinding snow, and treacherous ice that can completely disrupt travel plans and create life-threatening situations if you’re caught unprepared. The National Weather Service reports that winter storms and extreme cold cause more than 100 fatalities annually in the United States, with many of these deaths occurring during travel situations.

The primary dangers snowstorms present to travelers include:

Road Hazards: Reduced visibility, black ice, snow accumulation, and disabled vehicles
Vehicle Failures: Battery problems, frozen fuel lines, and tire issues exacerbated by cold
Stranding: Becoming stuck in remote areas with limited help available
Health Risks: Hypothermia, frostbite, and carbon monoxide poisoning from improper heating
Infrastructure Challenges: Power outages, closed roads, and suspended public transportation

Our emergency preparedness experts emphasize that understanding these risks is the first step in effective preparation. We’ve observed that travelers who respect winter weather warnings and plan accordingly almost always fare better than those who underestimate storm severity or overestimate their ability to travel through challenging conditions.

Pre-Trip Planning: The Foundation of Safe Winter Travel

Effective snowstorm preparation begins long before you hit the road or head to the airport. The Department of Transportation estimates that proper pre-trip planning can reduce your risk of weather-related travel incidents by up to 70%. Our team recommends building a comprehensive pre-trip plan that includes the following elements:

Monitor Weather Forecasts Vigilantly

Weather conditions can change rapidly during winter months, making constant monitoring essential for safe travel. Begin checking forecasts at least a week before your planned departure, and increase frequency as your travel date approaches.

Reliable Weather Sources: National Weather Service, Weather Channel, AccuWeather, and local meteorological services
Weather Apps: Download apps that provide real-time alerts and radar imagery
Winter Storm Warnings: Understand the difference between watches (conditions favorable for severe weather), warnings (severe weather imminent), and advisories (weather conditions that cause significant inconvenience)

In our experience working with emergency preparedness clients, we’ve found that many travelers misinterpret weather alerts or dismiss them too readily. Our specialists emphasize that a winter storm warning should trigger immediate reconsideration of travel plans, while a winter weather advisory should prompt additional preparation measures.

Create a Flexible Itinerary

Building flexibility into your travel plans can significantly reduce stress and danger when winter weather threatens. This approach may require adjusting your typical travel habits, but the safety benefits far outweigh the inconvenience.

Buffer Days: Add 1-2 extra days to your travel timeline when traveling during winter months
Alternative Routes: Research and map secondary routes that avoid high mountain passes, exposed highways, or notoriously dangerous winter roads
Cancellation Policies: Book accommodations and transportation with flexible cancellation options
Decision Points: Establish clear criteria for when you’ll delay, reroute, or cancel travel plans

Our team always recommends creating a “no-go” threshold based on forecast conditions. For instance, you might decide that predicted snowfall over 6 inches or temperatures below 10°F will trigger a travel delay. Having these decision points established in advance removes the pressure of making difficult choices when you’re already stressed about travel plans.

Share Your Travel Plans

Ensuring others know your travel plans creates an essential safety net during winter travel. This simple step has proven crucial in emergency situations when travelers become stranded or lose communication abilities.

Detailed Itinerary: Share your expected route, stops, and estimated arrival times with trusted contacts
Check-in Schedule: Establish regular check-in times with family or friends
Emergency Contacts: Provide your emergency contacts with each other’s information to coordinate if needed
Location Sharing: Consider using smartphone location sharing features with trusted contacts during your journey

Essential Supplies for Winter Travel

Being properly equipped for winter travel can transform a potential emergency into a manageable situation. According to the American Automobile Association (AAA), more than 40% of winter travel emergencies are exacerbated by lack of proper supplies. Our emergency preparedness experts have developed comprehensive winter travel kits for thousands of clients, and we’ve refined these recommendations based on real-world experiences.

Vehicle Winter Emergency Kit

If you’re traveling by car, a well-stocked emergency kit is non-negotiable. This kit should be assembled before the winter season begins and kept in your vehicle throughout the cold months. For travelers in rental cars, consider a compact version that can be packed in your luggage.

Basic Survival Tools: Flashlight with extra batteries, multi-tool, duct tape, whistle, and hand-crank or battery-powered radio
Warmth Items: Wool blankets or emergency mylar blankets, hand warmers, extra winter clothing (socks, hats, gloves, jackets), and a sleeping bag rated for winter temperatures
Food and Water: At least 72 hours of non-perishable, high-calorie food items and 1 gallon of water per person per day
First Aid Supplies: Comprehensive first aid kit including any personal medications
Vehicle Recovery Tools: Collapsible shovel, traction aids (sand, cat litter, or commercial traction mats), ice scraper, snow brush, and tow rope
Communication Devices: Fully charged phone power bank, car charger, and emergency contact information

Based on our field testing with clients in cold-weather regions, we’ve found that quality matters significantly with winter emergency supplies. Our specialists emphasize investing in reliable, durable equipment rather than the cheapest options, particularly for critical items like emergency blankets, hand warmers, and traction aids.

Personal Winter Travel Kit

Whether traveling by car, plane, train, or bus, a personal winter travel kit ensures you’re prepared for unexpected delays or emergencies. This compact kit should be kept with you at all times during winter travel.

Clothing Layers: Extra base layer, mid-layer, socks, hat, gloves, and pocket hand warmers
Nutrition: High-energy snacks (nuts, protein bars, chocolate), water bottle, and electrolyte packets
Personal Items: Medications, personal hygiene items, and any medical necessities
Electronics: Fully charged power bank, charging cables, and headlamp or small flashlight
Documents: Physical copies of ID, insurance information, emergency contacts, and travel itinerary

Our team always recommends distributing critical supplies among different bags when flying or taking public transportation. This strategy ensures you’ll have access to essential items even if checked luggage is delayed or inaccessible during a snowstorm.

Vehicle Preparation for Winter Travel

If you’re embarking on a road trip during winter months, your vehicle’s condition becomes a critical factor in your safety. According to AAA, more than 40% of winter roadside emergencies could be prevented with proper vehicle maintenance. A comprehensive vehicle check before winter travel should address several key systems.

Mechanical Inspection

Cold weather places additional stress on vehicle systems, making pre-trip inspections particularly important. Ideally, schedule a professional inspection 1-2 weeks before major winter travel to allow time for necessary repairs.

Battery System: Have battery tested (cold weather reduces battery power by up to 50%), clean terminals, and check charging system
Cooling System: Ensure proper antifreeze concentration and level
Ignition System: Replace worn spark plugs and check ignition wires
Exhaust System: Repair leaks immediately (carbon monoxide risk increases when windows are closed)
Heating System: Verify heater and defroster functionality
Wiper System: Install winter wiper blades and fill reservoir with winter-grade washer fluid
Lights: Check all exterior and interior lights

Our emergency preparedness team has noticed that many travelers overlook the exhaust system during winter preparations. This oversight can be dangerous, as snow-blocked exhaust pipes can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning if the vehicle is running while stranded. We always emphasize checking the exhaust system and keeping the tailpipe clear if you become stranded.

Tire Preparation

Tires represent your vehicle’s only contact with the road, making them critically important during winter driving. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that properly maintained tires can reduce skidding incidents by up to 30% in winter conditions.

Winter Tires: Consider installing winter tires if traveling through areas with regular snow and ice
Tire Pressure: Check pressure regularly (cold temperatures reduce pressure)
Tread Depth: Ensure at least 3/32″ of tread (the “penny test” where Lincoln’s head should be partially covered)
Chains or Traction Devices: Carry and know how to install chains if traveling in mountainous regions

In our experience helping clients prepare for winter travel, we’ve found that many people underestimate the difference winter tires can make. While all-season tires may be adequate in light snow, dedicated winter tires provide significantly better traction in serious winter conditions, especially when temperatures drop below 45°F.

Fuel Management

Proper fuel management becomes especially important during winter travel. Cold temperatures affect fuel efficiency and increase the risk of fuel line freezing.

Keep Tank Full: Maintain at least half a tank of fuel at all times
Fuel Additives: Consider fuel additives that prevent fuel line freezing in extremely cold regions
Gas Station Planning: Map fuel stops in advance, noting which stations are open 24/7

Travel Strategies During Winter Weather

Even with thorough preparation, traveling during winter requires adjusting your approach to minimize risk. The Federal Highway Administration reports that winter weather conditions contribute to approximately 24% of weather-related vehicle crashes. Implementing proven winter travel strategies can significantly reduce your risk.

Road Travel Safety Techniques

Winter driving demands specific techniques that differ from normal driving habits. These adjustments help compensate for reduced traction and visibility.

Reduced Speed: Drive at least 10 mph below normal speeds on snow-covered roads
Increased Following Distance: Maintain 8-10 seconds of following distance (3-4 times normal distance)
Gentle Inputs: Accelerate, brake, and steer with smooth, gradual movements
Anticipation: Look further ahead to anticipate stops, turns, and hazards
Momentum Management: Maintain steady momentum when climbing hills; avoid stopping midway up slopes
Brake Properly: Apply brakes gently; pump non-ABS brakes or apply steady pressure with ABS

Our team always emphasizes that winter driving is as much about what you don’t do as what you do. Avoid sudden movements, unnecessary lane changes, and cruise control on slippery surfaces. Based on our work with emergency preparedness clients, we’ve found that practicing these techniques in a safe, empty parking lot after the first snowfall helps build confidence and muscle memory.

Air Travel During Winter Storms

Air travelers face different challenges during winter storms, primarily focused on logistics and potential delays. According to the Bureau of Transportation Statistics, winter weather accounts for approximately 35% of all flight delays in affected regions.

Flight Selection: Book morning flights (less likely to be affected by accumulated delays)
Airport Transportation: Plan extra time for getting to/from airports
Delay Preparation: Carry essentials in your personal item in case of extended delays
Rebooking Strategy: Research alternative flights and download your airline’s app for faster rebooking
Accommodation Plan: Research airport-adjacent hotels in advance

What our specialists have seen work well is maintaining a proactive approach with airlines. Signing up for flight alerts, checking in online at the earliest opportunity, and being among the first to request rebooking when cancellations seem likely can significantly improve your situation during winter travel disruptions.

Public Transportation Considerations

Trains and buses offer alternatives to driving or flying during winter, but come with their own considerations. These modes of transportation are affected differently by winter weather.

Schedule Impacts: Research how winter weather historically affects service in your travel region
Station Conditions: Prepare for potentially unheated waiting areas or outdoor platforms
Connection Planning: Allow extra time between connections
Alternative Routes: Research backup transportation options if service is suspended

What to Do If Stranded in a Snowstorm

Despite the best preparation, severe winter weather may still leave you stranded. According to the National Weather Service, knowing how to respond in this situation can be lifesaving. The first 24 hours of being stranded are the most critical, and your actions during this period significantly impact your safety.

If Stranded in a Vehicle

Being stranded in a vehicle during a snowstorm presents specific challenges and safety considerations. Your vehicle provides shelter, but requires proper management to remain safe.

Stay With Your Vehicle: Your car provides visibility to rescuers and shelter from elements
Signal for Help: Tie a brightly colored cloth to antenna or door, raise hood when snow stops
Clear Exhaust Pipe: Regularly check that snow hasn’t blocked the tailpipe to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning
Run Engine Sparingly: 10 minutes per hour for heat; crack a downwind window slightly for ventilation
Conserve Battery: Use lights, radio, and accessories minimally
Stay Warm: Use blankets, shared body heat, and periodic movement
Stay Hydrated and Nourished: Eat snacks and melt snow for water if necessary (never eat snow directly)

Our emergency preparedness experts emphasize the importance of staying with your vehicle unless you can clearly see help within walking distance. In our field training scenarios, we’ve observed that people consistently underestimate the disorienting effects of snowstorms and overestimate their ability to walk to safety in winter conditions.

If Stranded in an Airport or Station

Being stranded at transportation hubs during winter storms presents different challenges than being stranded on the road. These locations typically offer basic shelter but may become overcrowded and resource-limited during major weather events.

Secure Resources Early: Claim power outlets, food, and comfortable seating before they become scarce
Consider Airport Hotels: Book accommodations early if delays appear extended
Stay Informed: Follow airport/station announcements and set up alerts
Conserve Phone Battery: Use power-saving mode and limit usage to essential communications
Maintain Comfort: Use your personal kit for hygiene, warmth, and nutrition

Based on our team’s experience helping travelers prepare for winter emergencies, we recommend establishing a “delay threshold” in advance. Decide at what point you’ll abandon travel plans and seek accommodation rather than waiting indefinitely in uncomfortable conditions. This predetermined decision point helps prevent exhaustion and frustration from clouding your judgment.

Special Considerations for Different Travelers

Winter travel preparation should be tailored to the specific needs of different travelers. Research from the CDC indicates that certain populations face increased risks during winter travel emergencies and require additional preparation.

Families with Children

Traveling with children during winter requires additional planning to ensure their comfort and safety. Children are more vulnerable to cold temperatures and may become distressed during travel disruptions.

Extra Supplies: Pack additional snacks, activities, medications, and clothing layers
Comfort Items: Include familiar items that provide psychological comfort
Safety Education: Teach children basic winter safety appropriate for their age
Identification: Ensure children carry identification and emergency contact information
Temperature Monitoring: Check children for signs of cold stress frequently

Our emergency preparedness specialists emphasize preparing children for potential delays or changes in plans. We’ve found that explaining possible scenarios in advance and framing them as adventures rather than emergencies helps reduce anxiety and creates more resilient young travelers.

Seniors and Those with Medical Conditions

Older adults and individuals with medical conditions face heightened risks during winter travel disruptions. According to the CDC, these populations are more vulnerable to cold-related illnesses and may experience complications when medical routines are disrupted.

Medication Management: Pack extra medications (at least 7 days beyond planned trip duration)
Medical Documentation: Carry written prescriptions, medical history, and provider contact information
Mobility Considerations: Plan for snow/ice navigation if mobility is limited
Temperature Sensitivity: Pack additional warming items if cold-sensitive
Medical Devices: Ensure backup power for essential medical equipment

What our team has seen work well is creating a detailed medical contingency plan before traveling. This includes researching medical facilities along your route, understanding how to maintain medication at proper temperatures, and establishing communication protocols with healthcare providers in case of emergency.

International Travelers

International travelers face unique challenges during winter storms, particularly related to communication, unfamiliar systems, and different emergency protocols.

Communication Preparation: Download translation apps and save key winter emergency phrases
Local Emergency Numbers: Save local emergency service numbers (not all countries use 911)
Embassy Information: Register with your embassy and save contact information
Insurance Coverage: Verify travel insurance covers weather-related disruptions and emergency medical care
Local Weather Resources: Identify reliable local weather information sources

Post-Storm Travel Considerations

The aftermath of a winter storm presents its own set of challenges for travelers. According to the Federal Highway Administration, the period immediately following a major snowstorm often sees a spike in accidents as people resume travel on partially cleared roads.

Assessing When It’s Safe to Resume Travel

Determining when to resume travel after a winter storm requires careful evaluation of conditions and resources. Premature travel can lead to additional risks and emergency situations.

Official Guidance: Follow recommendations from local authorities and transportation departments
Road Conditions: Check road clearing status through state DOT websites or apps
Weather Forecast: Confirm no additional storms are imminent
Resource Availability: Verify that fuel stations, rest areas, and emergency services are operational
Personal Readiness: Assess your physical and mental condition after weather-related stress

In our experience helping clients navigate winter travel emergencies, we’ve found that many people rush to resume travel as soon as precipitation stops, without considering other factors like road clearing operations, refreezing, and the availability of emergency services. Our team always recommends waiting until daylight hours to resume travel when possible, as visibility and road conditions are easier to assess.

Adjusting Plans After Delays

Winter storms often necessitate itinerary adjustments. Managing these changes effectively can reduce stress and prevent rushed decisions that compromise safety.

Prioritize Activities: Determine which aspects of your trip are essential versus optional
Communicate Changes: Update all parties affected by your revised schedule
Reservation Management: Rebook accommodations and activities as needed
Rest Requirements: Build in recovery time after stressful travel disruptions

Our specialists emphasize the importance of maintaining flexibility and a positive attitude when winter weather disrupts travel plans. We’ve observed that travelers who can mentally pivot and find enjoyment in unexpected situations typically experience less stress and make better safety decisions than those rigidly attached to original plans.

Learning from Winter Travel Experiences

Each winter travel experience, especially those involving weather challenges, provides valuable lessons for future journeys. The Department of Transportation estimates that experienced winter travelers have up to 60% fewer incidents than those with limited winter travel experience.

Post-Trip Assessment

After completing winter travel, particularly if you encountered storms or delays, a structured review helps refine your preparation for future trips.

Equipment Evaluation: Note which supplies were useful and what was missing
Decision Review: Assess the effectiveness of your travel decisions
Information Sources: Evaluate which weather and road condition sources proved most reliable
Emotional Response: Consider how stress affected your decision-making
Documentation: Record lessons learned while they’re fresh in your mind

Based on our work with emergency preparedness clients, we’ve found that maintaining a winter travel journal can be incredibly valuable. Our team encourages travelers to document what worked, what didn’t, and what they’d do differently next time. This practice builds a personalized knowledge base that improves safety and confidence with each winter journey.

Updating Your Winter Travel Kit

Your winter travel kit should evolve based on experience and changing needs. Regular updates ensure your preparation remains relevant and effective.

Seasonal Refresh: Replace expired items and update kit before each winter season
Technology Updates: Incorporate new safety tools and apps as they become available
Personalization: Adjust contents based on your specific experiences and needs
Family Evolution: Update kits as family members’ needs change

Our emergency preparedness team recommends scheduling a “kit review” each fall before winter travel season begins. This practice ensures your supplies remain current and your preparation strategy incorporates lessons from previous experiences.

Conclusion

Preparing for snowstorms while traveling combines practical planning, appropriate equipment, and a mindset that prioritizes safety over schedules. By understanding winter weather risks, creating flexible travel plans, assembling comprehensive emergency kits, and knowing how to respond if stranded, you transform potentially dangerous situations into manageable challenges.

At Batten Emergency, we’ve guided countless travelers through winter storm preparation and response. Our experience has shown that the most effective approach combines thorough advance planning with the flexibility to adapt when conditions change. Remember that no destination is worth risking your safety, and sometimes the best decision is to delay travel until conditions improve.

As you prepare for your next winter journey, focus on building layers of protection: knowledge, supplies, communication plans, and backup options. This multilayered approach creates resilience against the unpredictability of winter weather and ensures you can travel with confidence, knowing you’re prepared for whatever conditions you might encounter.

For more information on building comprehensive emergency plans for all seasons, visit Batten Emergency or explore our guide on how to prepare for a snowstorm at home.

Sources used for this article:

Winter Weather Safety, https://www.weather.gov/safety/winter
How to Prepare for Winter Weather, https://www.ready.gov/winter-weather
Winter Driving Tips, https://www.nhtsa.gov/winter-driving-tips