I grew up in the south where winters weren’t as cold, relatively speaking, but where ice was the precipitation of choice. In the Midwest, we experience all seasons, too. I am so thankful for this throughout the year! But, with each season comes preparedness in some way or another. With winter, things will go much better if we are prepared, both at home and on the go. Todays’ post is mostly about on the go and things we can do to help ourselves be ready for certain wintery situations. Sweet Husband is my inspiration and helped on this post! I hope this is a helpful read!

Vehicle Readiness

In any situation I can think of, the more prepared you are, the more you get out of that situation. And, even though we may like to be home more in the winter, there are times we are all out and going. Some people may travel to work daily. Others may go less. But either way, let’s get our vehicles road ready for the winter season. Here is a check list that may help! It is not exhaustive and your current life stage may require further items. But, perhaps this can get your brain juices flowing so you and your loved ones are not caught out in the snow this winter…

• box, crate, basket- this is for storing all of your winter goods in
• blankets- yes! Choose an extra one from the closet or purchase a compact wool blanket and pile it in!
• hats, gloves, etc- extra winter gear is perfect for 1)the day you forgot to replace that hat in your coat pocket or 2)you notice a co-worker or even a stranger out in the cold without one!
• socks- keep those toes and feet warm. If you need to help push a car out of the ditch, you’re going to want to have dry socks to put on afterward.
• water- always. Always have extra water in your car. If you have a garage, it should not freeze (or get too hot in summer) kept in the car. If you do not, keep a bottle with your keys in the house to always grab as you go.
• food- always. Keep some sort of high energy/protein snack in your vehicle at all times. During winter, add more. Granola bars, nuts, jerky, peanut butter. Add child friendly/allergy friendly snacks as well. Baby food, apple sauce, graham crackers etc.
• wipes/toilet paper- don’t laugh. Think ahead!
• diapers- change the size you have on hand as needed
• first aid kit– if it doesn’t have everything you need (think children’s options or disinfectant wipes) add those also
• jumper cables- I’m sure most American families keep these in their cars already, but make sure you have a set and that you know how to use them. (I don’t know the electric car alternative, but do your research!)
• jack and tire kit- again, know how to change your tires
• flares- another road safety device, especially during winter storms
• collapsible shovel– this can be useful if your car gets stuck. They fold up small and can be very affordable.
• sand or kitty litter- in certain situations, all you need is a small amount of grip to get you going again. If there is room, add one of these to a jug.
• flashlight- It is never a bad idea to have a flashlight or headlamp.
• extra batteries- self explanatory. Just know what sizes are needed for your gear.
• cash- It is a very good idea to keep some cash hidden somewhere in your car. Just because most places take credit cards these days doesn’t mean they are always up and running. Stash some cash.
• phone charger- keep your phone charged in case you have to turn off the car during a storm etc.
• ice scraper- another reason you want those gloves on

Think Ahead

It is a good idea to keep your gas tank at least half full before going home. Emergencies arise. And they are called emergencies for a reason. Keeping gas in the tank means you are ready to go quite a distance before you need to think about fueling up again.

If you do get stuck in ice or snow, Sweet Husband suggests being aware of your exhaust pipe. Make sure it never gets covered, causing the fumes to go back into your vehicle. How dangerous!

When you are leaving the house, think first. Winter… coat, hat, gloves. Am I wearing shoes that I can walk in if I need to go for help? If we just assume we will make it warmly to wherever we are going (that is also a warm building) and dress inappropriately for the weather, we are not setting a good example nor are we setting ourselves up for success. Even living in a city surrounded by gas stations and shops and restaurants doesn’t mean you should not be prepared.

Any of these tips means you need to consider your family or spouse etc. What is your life stage? Think of everyone involved! Ages, needs, whether they are capable of thinking of these things for themselves. Don’t expect your toddler to always grab her coat as she gets into the van. Make sure your kids have the appropriate shoes, clothes, and gear they need as well as yourself. When my kids were younger, I would dress them in their snow pants if we were getting in and out of the van for errands. Warm, fit in the car seat, and they could throw their coats on as we hopped out.

What other item would you add? Please SHARE this post with your friends and family who have winter in their lives. Maybe some of these ideas would also make good Christmas gifts… hmm!