Tips for Safe Winter Travel for Older Adults
November 11, 2024 | Kathy Ingulsrud
Winter travel can be a daunting endeavor, fraught with concerns about the weather, hazardous road conditions and personal comfort levels. Embarking on winter adventures doesn’t have to be stressful. By following these tips and tricks, you can navigate these chilly months with confidence and ease, ensuring an enjoyable journey.
Winter Travel Tips
When traveling by car here are few things to consider before leaving:
1.) Service Your Car/Check Your Car – whether you service your car yourself or bring it to a dealership or service center – check things out! Brakes, tires, headlights and taillights all need to be in working order. Check coolant levels, wipers and exhaust system. Protect your vehicle from extreme temperatures by topping off your antifreeze.
2.) Pack Warm Clothes – keep warm blankets in your car for the just in case moments. It also wouldn’t hurt to have an extra set of clothing or two. Don’t forget your hats and gloves!
3.)Supplies – pack plenty of snacks and water to keep your energy levels up! Make sure your phones/devices are fully charged before hitting the road and bring chargers or portable chargers for emergencies. Bring along a flashlight – remember the batteries!
4.) Necessities – Ensure you have an adequate supply of all your medications by refilling before you leave. Don’t forget the essentials like glasses, reading glasses and hearing aid batteries.
5.) Know Your Route – do a little bit of research so you can familiarize yourself with the route. You may want to know where gas stations, restaurants and/or rest stops are.
6.) Forecast – keep an eye on the weather forecast to stay ahead of any surprises. If snow or ice is in the forecast, consider delaying your departure until conditions improve. Safety should always be your top priority.
Related: 5 Travel Tips for Older Adults
Winter travel can indeed be challenging, but with a little preparation, you can significantly reduce your stress and increase enjoyment. By following these tips and tricks and taking the time to ensure your vehicle is road ready, packing the essentials, and dressing warm, you will be well equipped to conquer the winter roads and create more lasting memories! Safe travels.
If your next adventure takes you beyond a simple road trip, be sure to talk with our team about travel health insurance coverage.
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Do you need help with Medicare, insurance and health plans? Explore your options with Allina Health Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield of Minnesota, Medica, UCare, United HealthCare and more. We work with you to find the best plan for your needs and budget. Contact us today to get started.
