Are you planning to end the year with a four-wheeled trip along the snowy winter roads? If so, keep reading this post by Oil Options in Knightdale to learn the best tips for planning a winter road trip.

The Christmas season is almost here! Although that means that more drivers are expected to hit the roads, let's not forget that winter weather poses a few significant challenges at the wheel. From poor visibility during snowstorms to compromised traction on icy and slippery surfaces. That said, it's always wise to be preventive and figure out your road trips. So, if you too want to take a winter road trip to visit your hometown, read the tips below on planning a fun and safe trip on four wheels.

Giving your engine the most effective synthetic oil change in Knightdale is paramount to keeping your vehicle in top shape for longer. For more information about the best products for your car, call Oil Options at (919) 618-9623 or visit AMSOIL's online shop.

How to Prepare to Go on a Winter Road Trip

Plan Out Your Trip

Planning your winter road trip is essential to guarantee that it will be safe and fun. Thus, start by deciding which destinations you want to visit. Then, you can map out a route and pin relevant sites along the way, including restaurants, gas stations, and accommodations. You can even look for camping sites, hiking trails, national parks, and other places you may want to explore along the way. A simple way to map your route is through online resources such as Google My Maps. This function allows you to create customized maps with categorized locations. Besides, it can also help you determine how long your trips will take between destinations to make the most of each day of your trip.

Inspect Your Car

Inspecting your car before setting off will make a big difference in your safety and peace of mind behind the wheel. Overlooking this step could lead to mechanical breakdowns that could leave you stranded or, worse, cause you to have an accident on the road. To avoid such risks, have your car checked by a professional. Don't forget to inform them about your travel plans and the miles you plan to drive. This way, they'll look closely at the engine, tires, and other key mechanical systems.

Keep your engine running smoothly by feeding it with quality formulas like AMSOIL's Signature Series 5W-50 Synthetic Motor Oil. To get this and other top-shelf lubricants and products, call Oil Options at (919) 618-9623. Don't forget to browse AMSOIL's online store to place an order for the most effective synthetic oil in Knightdale.

Prepare an Emergency Kit for Your Car

As mentioned earlier, the road is unpredictable and full of surprises. Thus, checking your vehicle to ensure safe travel is not enough. You should also equip your car with the right tools to deal with any mishap or danger on the road. To do this, prepare a container with the following items:

• First aid kit
• Jumper cables or a portable jump starter system
• Extendable shovel
• Snow chains
• Traction sand
• Portable cell phone charger
• Rechargeable LED handheld flashlight

Check the Condition of the Roads Beforehand

Our next tip is to research the condition of the roads you plan to drive on. During winter, extreme weather can make driving dangerous. For this, state DOTs often close specific stretches of road. Given that chance, you may want to check the transportation websites for each state you plan to visit. This way, you can verify that the roads you plan to take are safe and open to the public. If you find out about closures on your way, choose to plan alternative routes.

Don't Forget to Pack Travel Supplies

Be sure to stock your car with supplies to make the trip more comfortable and fun. To that end, pack water and your favorite snacks so you won't go hungry or thirsty along the way. Also, pack wool blankets, warm hats, and gloves to fight the cold if your heater breaks down. Don't forget to download audiobooks or prepare music playlists for the trip. Extra tip: Don't forget to keep essential car documents in the glove compartment. These papers should include proof of car insurance and a copy of your driver's license.

Get a Good Night's Sleep Before the Trip

Finally, get enough sleep before embarking on your road trip. Failure to do so could put you at risk of falling asleep at the wheel. On that note, The National Sleep Foundation states that adults should get 7 to 9 hours of sleep every night. Getting that amount of sleep will undoubtedly help you achieve a more alert, energetic, and, thus, safer driving experience.

Ensure a safe winter road trip by feeding your engine with the top synthetic oil in Knightdale. Call Oil Options at (919) 618-9623 for advice on what formulas and products to use during your car maintenance routine. To explore their entire catalog, browse through AMSOIL's online store.