Here’s Why a Winter Road Trip This Year Might Be a Big Mistake

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The idea of a winter road trip is something magical. Maybe late November daydreams of snow covered mountains, quaint roadside diners and holiday songs on repeat seem downright enchanting. Let’s be honest for a moment though, Instagram is a place that may make it look like a dreamy Hallmark movie, but the reality can be a frosty slap in the face—literally.

Before you hit the gas, it’s worth thinking about what pitfalls might lie ahead in the pursuit of that snow covered horizon. Let’s break it down.

Dangerous Driving Conditions

Driving with Snow on Your Car — Photo Credit: Tima Miroshnichenko/Pexels

It’s not the season for skidding tires, it’s the season for cozy fires. But even the easiest drive can become a nail biting experience through icy roads, black ice or even heavy snowstorms. The Federal Highway Administration reports that 24 percent of weather related car accidents occur on snow, slush or ice covered pavement. If you’re not comfortable driving in these conditions, or your vehicle isn’t up to snuff, your dream trip may turn into a nightmare in a heartbeat.

Unpredictable Weather

In the winter, Mother Nature loves to keep us guessing. It can go from a sunny day to a blizzard, as weather forecasts aren’t foolproof. You’re cruising along one minute, and the next you’re in the middle of a snowstorm, waiting for help that could be hours away. If you don’t want to turn your car into an impromptu igloo, maybe you should rethink the whole road trip.

Increased Risk of Car Troubles

Cars and cold weather don’t mix. Batteries go dead faster, engines won’t crank, and tires lose air. A minor issue could leave you stranded if you’re far from a service station. AAA says dead batteries calls spike in the winter, so unless you’re a mechanic with a heated garage on wheels, this could spell trouble.

Shorter Days Means Less Daylight

Days are short and it’s frustrating. When you actually get on the road and begin to notice the scenery, the sun is already going down. Driving in unfamiliar roads at night, particularly in poor weather, is a recipe for stress. After all, doesn’t part of the point of a road trip involve absorbing the views? Pitch black highways does not exactly make for a pictureque vibe.

High Fuel Costs in Cold Weather

During the peak travel seasons — including winter holidays — gas prices tend to rise. And what’s worse, cold weather can even cause your car to become less fuel efficient. Freezing temperatures decrease fuel economy by about 12 percent compared to more moderate temperatures, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. Winter road trip can be more expensive than you’d planned.

Limited Access to Attractions

Magical Christmas Destinations You Can't Miss — Image Credit: Monica Oprea/Pexels

Many tourist attractions close their doors for the winter, or at least run on reduced schedules. That roadside museum you were hoping to visit when it was cute? Closed until spring. Scenic hiking trails? It is too dangerous to explore with snow and ice. You could be greeted by a lot of “Closed for the Season” instead of a packed itinerary.

Higher Chance of Getting Sick

Winter is also flu season. Rest stops, restaurants and gas stations are germ havens because they are crowded. You can pick up more than a souvenir if you’re not careful. Traveling during peak flu season puts you at greater risk of exposure to illness in close quarters. Can you imagine being stuck in a car for hours fighting the flu? It isn’t exactly how you’d expect great road trip memories to be made.

Limited Dining Options

European Practices that Baffle American Travelers — Image Credit: Adrienn/Pexels

That diner you pictured yourself warming up in might not be along your route, or it may be closed. Small businesses in rural areas often operate on fewer hours during the winter. And you could wind up living on gas station snacks and lukewarm coffee — not exactly the stuff of holiday cheer.

Unexpected Delays

Roads close, flights are cancelled, and travel is delayed because of winter storms. And even if your plans seem iron clad, one storm can blow it all out to sea. Who wants to spend their vacation rationing granola bars while waiting for the plows to come through? Experts suggest carrying emergency supplies.

Increased Stress

Winter driving is stressful, let’s face it. With the constant weather checks, the extra time spent scraping ice off your windshield, and the nerve racking moments on slick roads it can feel more like chore than a getaway. Winter road trips may sound like the adventurous thing to do, but you’ll be left more frazzled than festive.

Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.