Tips to turn your winter trip into a dream come true

Winter is a great time to travel. While many of us like to escape the gloomy weather by chasing the sun overseas, plenty of holidaymakers head to colder climates.

Whether you’re travelling to try out some winter sports, or to experience the beauty of the season abroad, here are some valuable tips and advice to help you plan your dream winter holiday.

How do you pack a suitcase for a winter holiday?

Packing for a winter holiday can be tricky, especially if you’re heading somewhere with a different climate. You want to pack enough clothes to keep you comfortable but also avoid overpacking and paying extra baggage fees.

• Check the weather forecast of your destination before you pack. This will help you decide what kind of clothes and shoes you need to bring and any special items such as hats, gloves, scarves, etc.
• Choose versatile and layerable clothing that you can mix and match to create different outfits. You can pack a few basic tops, bottoms, jackets, and sweaters that you can wear in various combinations depending on the weather and occasion.

Should you roll clothes in a suitcase?

Rolling your clothes can help you prevent wrinkles and save space in your suitcase. But, rolling is not suitable for all types of clothing.

• Roll clothes made of thin, stretchy, or wrinkle-resistant fabrics. T-shirts, jeans, jumpers, etc can be rolled to make them more compact and less likely to crease.
• Fold clothes made of thick, stiff, or delicate fabrics, such as suits, dresses, skirts, etc.
• You can also use packing cubes or compression bags to organise your clothes and make them fit better in your luggage.

What should you carry with you during your holiday?

If you’re heading to a wintery destination, there are some essential items that you should carry with you.

• Pack some sunscreen and lip balm. Even if it’s cold and cloudy, you can still get sunburned or chapped by the snow and wind.
• Bring a reusable water bottle and stay hydrated. Winter air can be very dry and dehydrating, especially at high altitudes, so drink plenty of water throughout the day.
• Carry some snacks and energy bars. Winter activities can be exhausting and you might not always have access to food or restaurants. Snacks that you can eat on the go or in between meals will help to keep your energy levels up.

What gear should you drive in on icy roads?

If you’re driving on a winter holiday, you should be prepared for icy roads, which can be dangerous, especially if you are not used to them. You must be extra careful when driving on slippery surfaces and adjust your speed, braking, steering, and gear.

• Use a low gear when starting or accelerating on icy roads. This will give you more traction and control over your car and prevent it from skidding or spinning out of control.
• Use a high gear when driving at a steady speed to reduce the torque and power of your engine and minimise the risk of losing grip or sliding on the ice.
• Use a low gear when going downhill to slow down your vehicle without using the brakes too much, which can cause skidding or locking up of the wheels.
• Use a high gear when going uphill to help maintain momentum and avoid getting stuck or sliding backwards on the slope.

Remember to book your Travel Insurance with AllClear before you go. Protect yourself from unexpected events or emergencies that might occur during your trip.

We hope you have an amazing time wherever your winter adventures take you.