15 SAVVY WINTER DRIVING TIPS

Step on Bus Tours mascot Alex scopes out places.

The week of January 5, marks the first full week of back-to-the-way-it-was.  For that many of us are so glad because it restores a sense of normalcy.  But, road conditions are much different than they were last week in 2014. 

Because I spend so much time on the road, I notice a lot of things that most overlook.  As a travel planner and guide, I do my best to anticipate the road ahead, and that is no intended pun. Tips always help make the travel just that much easier. Be prepared. Here are mine. 

1. Windshield wiper washer fluid. It's the most important liquid to have in your car.  Top off the container in the engine.  Then put the bottle in the trunk just in case you need it. There's nothing worse than trying to see through dried dirt and salt on the windshield when the fluid runs out.

2. Head & Brake Lights. Be sure that they work.  I almost got a ticket for a burned out headlight. You need to see what's ahead. And, drivers behind must be able to tell when you are braking. O'Reilly's, Auto Zone and similar auto part places will install them free if you purchase the bulbs at the store. Check out Auto Zone: http://www.autozone.com/

3. Lock Spray. It's winter. Be sure to lubricate the locks of your vehicle. Below freezing temps play a little twist and turn game with the tumblers. 

4. Tire Pressure. This is the kind of weather when the tire pressure must be checked monthly.  Not only for good mileage, but to be able to stop. There are few "full service" stations. A handy tire gauge can solve a problem waiting to happen.

5. Oil. Double check. You know that dark strip that you see in the center of each lane on the roads and highways. It's oil.  Probably yours. Or mine.  I get the oil changed every month or so. It's the one thing you can do to extend the life of your vehicle. 

6. Texting.  Just don't.  Please.  Not only is it against the law, but I am on the road and carry precious cargo. 

7. Traffic Reports. Listen to them so you know road conditions and accident reports. In this weather don't try to make up the time by driving fast. Leave earlier. Or wait 'til summer.

8. Water.  My mascot travels with me frequently.  I have her plastic water container in one of the cup holders of the vehicle.  A few bottles are on the floor of the back seat for me. 

9. Snow brush. Sort of obvious. A credit card works just as well for scrapping the ice off of the windshield, but why not remove snow from the vehicle the easy way? 

10. Towels. I keep two in the car. One to sit on, one in case too much snow settles on the floor of the driver's seat. There's nothing worse than a "goosy" mess. 

11. Glasses. Protect your eyes from damaging rays. And, I still use my yellow tinted glasses for night driving when it is especially dark out.  

12. Snacks. Not just for the dog, but for me, too. Glove box has beef jerky, raisins, peanut butter crackers for "just-in-case." 

13. Useful items. Kitty litter, tow belts, jumper cables and a roll of paper towels are must for the trunk, especially if you travel in a van or pick up truck,which could easily fish tail. 

14. Cell phone charger. Again, it's obvious. 

15. Stadium Seat. Bed, Bath & Beyond carries a variety. Heat it up in the microwave. It's comfy, cozy for any area of the car.  You-know-who loves it. 

The point is to be prepared.  Take your time.  And for those who want to go faster, give 'em a wide berth. Be safe so we can enjoy each other's company down the road!