Winter Road Trip With Rental Car
Renting a car during the winter months requires a bit more preparation and consideration compared to other seasons. Whether you’re going on a winter vacation, planning a road trip, or just need a reliable vehicle to navigate snowy and icy roads, it’s important to ensure that you rent a car for the right conditions. Here’s a guide with tips and recommendations for car rentals in Kitchener, Waterloo and Cambridge, during winters.
Choose the Right Type of Car Rentals
- All-Wheel Drive (AWD) or Four-Wheel Drive (4WD):
If you’ll be traveling to areas with heavy snow or icy conditions, an AWD or 4WD vehicle is essential. These vehicles provide better traction and stability on slippery roads. SUVs and crossovers are popular choices for winter car rentals because they typically offer these features.
- Winter Tires:
Ensure the rental car is equipped with winter tires (or snow tires). These tires are specifically designed to perform better in cold, icy, and snowy conditions. Many rental companies provide winter tires upon request or automatically fit their vehicles with them during the winter season.
Tip: If you rent a car doesn’t offer cars with winter tires, consider adding them to your rental, as they significantly improve safety and handling.
- Sedans and Compact Cars:
If you’re renting a smaller car for mild winter conditions, choose one with stability control systems and good tire tread. Some compact cars may also be equipped with winter tires. A smaller rental vehicle might not be the best option for mountain or rural areas where snowstorms are common, as they may struggle to handle the roads.
Check the Weather and Plan Accordingly
- Weather Conditions: Before you pick up your rental car, check the weather forecast for the areas you plan to visit. If you’re driving through areas known for winter storms or mountainous regions, it’s best to rent a car specifically equipped for those conditions.
- Chains and Snow Gear: In some areas, you may be required to carry tire chains or other snow gear in your rental vehicle. Check if your rental includes these, or if you need to rent them separately.
- Navigating Snowy Roads: If you’re traveling through snowy regions, it’s advisable to have a GPS or mobile maps app for guidance. Winter driving can sometimes lead to road closures or detours.
Inspect the Car Before Renting
Pre-Rental Inspection: Make sure you perform a thorough inspection of the car before driving off. This includes checking the tires to ensure they are winter-ready, checking the brake fluid levels, and confirming that the windshield wipers and defrosters are working properly.
Windshield Washer Fluid: Ensure the car has plenty of windshield washer fluid, as it can be used frequently during winter to clear off road salt, snow, and ice.
Winter Driving Safety Features to Look For
Heated Seats and Steering Wheel: If you’re traveling to extremely cold regions, look for a rental car with heated seats and a heated steering wheel for extra comfort.
Defrost and Heated Mirrors: Make sure the vehicle has a reliable defrosting system and heated mirrors to help clear fog and ice from the windshield and side mirrors.
Traction Control and Stability Systems: These systems are essential for preventing skidding and helping you maintain control when driving on slippery roads.
Prepare for Emergencies
Emergency Kit: When renting a car in winter, make sure you have an emergency kit that includes:
- Blankets, warm clothing, and gloves.
- A flashlight and extra batteries.
- Non-perishable snacks and water.
- A first-aid kit.
- A small shovel (especially if you’re driving in remote areas).
- Jumper cables and tire chains.
- A small bag of sand or cat litter (to help with traction if you get stuck). Roadside Assistance: Make sure your rental includes 24/7 roadside assistance. Winter driving can be unpredictable, and it’s important to know you have support in case of an emergency.
Understand the Rental Agreement for Winter
Insurance: Make sure your rental comes with adequate insurance coverage for winter conditions. Some rental companies may offer additional insurance to cover damage caused by icy roads, snow accumulation, or even accidents caused by winter conditions.
Fuel Policy: Check the fuel policy before renting. During winter trips, you may use more fuel due to slower driving speeds or the additional weight of snow gear, so it’s important to be aware of the rental company’s refueling expectations.
Mileage Restrictions: Long drives in winter conditions can be tiring, and you may want to take scenic detours or road trips. Be sure to inquire if there are any mileage limits or additional charges for long-distance travel.
Driving Tips for Winter Weather
Take It Slow: Driving in snow and ice requires patience. Always drive slower than usual, increase your following distance, and avoid sudden stops or turns.
Braking: Use gentle braking when driving on icy roads to avoid skidding. If the car begins to slide, steer into the direction of the slide to regain control.
Avoid Cruise Control: Never use cruise control in snowy or icy conditions, as it can make the car harder to control if the road conditions change unexpectedly.
Clear the Car of Snow and Ice: Before you start driving, make sure to clear all snow and ice from the car’s roof, windows, and lights. This improves visibility and safety, and can prevent snow from falling onto the windshield while driving.
Drop-Off Locations and Returns
Late Drop-off or Extension: If you anticipate that your winter trip might take longer due to road conditions or unforeseen delays, check if you can extend your rental or if the rental location offers late drop-off options.
Return Car with Snow or Ice: If you’re returning the car with snow on it or icy conditions, check if the rental company has any specific guidelines for cleaning or returning the car in a certain condition.
Recommended Winter Car Rental Options
Here are some vehicle types that are particularly suited for winter driving:
SUVs and Crossovers: These are the most common winter rental choices due to their height, spacious interiors, and availability of AWD/4WD options.
Luxury Cars (with AWD): If you prefer luxury but need traction in winter conditions, some high-end models offer AWD systems and winter-ready features.
Pickup Trucks: If you’re traveling to areas with deeper snow or rural areas where roads aren’t always cleared, a 4WD pickup truck can be a great option. Popular models: Ram 1500, or Toyota Tundra.
Conclusion:
Renting a car in winter requires more attention to detail than in other seasons, but with the right preparation, you can enjoy a safe and comfortable winter driving experience. Always ensure the vehicle is winter-ready, carry emergency supplies, and drive cautiously. By choosing the right car and making sure it’s properly equipped for the conditions, you’ll be able to enjoy your trip without any major setbacks.
