Road Trip Weather Guide — Drive Through Any Conditions Safely

Pre-Trip Weather Check

Before any road trip:

1. Check the weather for your entire route, not just your destination
2. Look at forecasts for each day of travel
3. Note any mountain passes, deserts, or coastal roads (microclimates)
4. Check road condition reports for your region

Driving in Different Conditions

Rain

• Reduce speed by 20-30%
• Increase following distance to 4+ seconds
• Turn headlights on
• Watch for hydroplaning above 80 km/h
• Avoid cruise control on wet roads

Fog

• Use low beams (never high beams — they reflect back)
• Reduce speed significantly
• Use fog lights if available
• Follow road markings, not the car ahead
• Pull over if visibility drops below 50m

Snow and Ice

• Reduce speed by 50%
• Brake gently and early
• Use low gears on hills
• Keep 10+ seconds of following distance
• Carry chains if crossing mountain passes

Strong Wind

• Grip the wheel firmly with both hands
• Watch for crosswinds on exposed roads, bridges, and when passing large vehicles
• Reduce speed, especially in high-profile vehicles
• Be alert when exiting tunnels or passing gaps between buildings

Extreme Heat

• Check tyre pressure (heat causes over-inflation)
• Ensure coolant is topped up
• Carry extra water for passengers and the engine
• Avoid driving through mirages at speed — they can mask road hazards

Emergency Car Kit

• Water (drinking and engine coolant)
• Blanket and warm clothes
• Torch and spare batteries
• Phone charger (car and portable)
• First aid kit
• Non-perishable snacks
• Jumper cables
• Basic tool kit
• Ice scraper and de-icer (winter)

Planning Rest Stops

• Take a 15-minute break every 2 hours of driving
• Plan stops at towns with fuel, food, and shelter
• If weather deteriorates, stop early — no destination is worth risking your safety

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Check route weather on Weather Tomorrow.