We’re right in the middle of winter here on the East Coast, and let me tell you that there have been some pretty frigid days lately! My toes are just aching for some warm sand to sink into! If you’re lucky enough to be heading off to a sunny destination this winter, keep the following tips in mind. Traveling in the winter is an entirely different experience than summer travel.
First, check the weather for your destination. Just because the place you’re going is known for being warm and sunny doesn’t necessarily mean you’re getting there at the right time. Some of the best anecdotes involve someone arriving in a tropical climate in the middle of a monsoon. Do yourself a favor and do a little research. If it’s monsoon season (or hurricane or tornado season for that matter), stay home! Find out what the average temps are for your destination that time of year and pack accordingly. If you’re leaving NY to go to Hawaii, it won’t hurt to bring a sweater or light jacket just in case.
Prepare for the worst. Snow, ice, and other such joys of winter can ground planes and leave you stuck in an unfamiliar city for days, even if it’s not snowing where you are. Make sure that you have access to enough money to get yourself a hotel and food if that happens. You might be able to work out something with the airline for reimbursement of your accommodations later, but sometimes they’re just plain unreasonable. You don’t want to have to sell your Aloha belly dancing souvenir so you can buy a cup of coffee. If you’re traveling with kids, you’ll need even more set aside.
If you’re driving, don’t overestimate your abilities. Driving in the snow and ice is best left to experienced drivers and vehicles equipped with snow tires and four-wheel drive. Even if you’re the best driver in the world, a driver in a nearby lane can easily lose control and hit you. It’s always better to be safe rather than sorry and stop at a hotel until a storm passes. Again, be sure that you’ve got enough cash or a card with available credit if you need it.
Also if you’re driving, make an emergency kit and put it in the trunk. Include a first aid kit, flares, blankets, jumper cables, and maybe even some of those hand and foot warmers. In the case of an accident, your car’s heater might not be an option for staying warm until help arrives. An ice scraper, small shovel, and some rock salt are also good items to have available.
Keep your electronics charged. Most of us are guilty of letting phones die before we put them on a charger. That’s fine at home or work, but if you get stuck somewhere, you might not have access to charging stations or outlets. Consider getting power banks to keep in your bag in case you need them. You’ll find them useful all throughout the year.
Travel in the winter can be tricky, but keep in mind that in most cases, people travel with no difficulties. With any luck, your trip will go smoothly and you’ll have your toes in warm sand before you know it. If not, though, planning ahead and a little bit of preparation can make the difference between a good trip and a miserable one.
Do you travel in the winter? What’s your favorite winter travel tip?
Disclosure: NYC Single Mom was not compensated for this post. This post contains affiliate links.
