Whether going to see family or vacationing, getting stuck while traveling in bad weather not only inconveniences you, but may send you into a panic. What do you do when you get caught in the rain, snow and sleet?
Anticipation and preparedness are half the battle, but here are nine tips for when you’re stuck traveling in far-from-fair weather.
Rain
1. Move Itinerary Indoors
Move your itinerary indoors if the rain is heavy and the distance between objects becomes hard to discern. It’s a great chance to discover a new area, such a nearby diner or cafe. Dash into a convenience store and buy a poncho or umbrella and snacks as you find a shelter to watch the rain fall and observe the site in a new light.
2. Slow Down in the Rain
Always follow the rules of the road when driving in the rain — both hands on the wheel, don’t speed, use your signal and windshield wipers. Keep a greater distance between cars, pedestrians and bikes.
Drive slowly, decreasing the speed a few miles per hour below the limit, and turn on your lights. Take curves slowly, and get off the road if your car can’t handle extra debris on the road. Rain repellent helps you gain a clearer view, in addition to windshield wipers. If you hit a puddle, keep the wheel straight and don’t slam on the brakes.
3. Don’t Drive in Flash Floods
While your car is safe when lightning strikes, it’s far from safe in a flash flood. Seventy-five people die annually driving in flash floods — that’s double the mortality rate of death by lightning. So, put down roots when reporters announce a flash flood. It only takes a foot of water to float a car, exerting 500 pounds of force, and six inches of water can cause stalling and loss of control. Head to high ground with emergency devices and supplies.
Snow
4. Avoid Lines During Flight Cancellations
Has the airport canceled your flight due to snow? Avoid long lines that leave you trapped and place a call instead, or visit the app or social media. Crowds may riot, and close corners make no one friendly. However, with a few clicks, a representative may offer you food and hotel vouchers, even if they can’t yet switch your flight. Ask nicely.
5. An “Act-of-God Clause” May Get You Your Money Back
Airlines often consider snow and other forms of bad weather as “acts of God” outside anyone’s control. Check your contract closely, because there may be a loophole in that “nonrefundable” ticket.
6. Keep Rolling On
It takes more to get a car moving from a complete stop than to move while rolling, so manage your momentum when turning or approaching stoplights. Slow down well in advance of stoplights.
Sleet
7. Don’t Underestimate Unpredictable Sleet
Sleet is three times denser than snow, and meteorologists consider it to be a variety of snow. The weather can quickly change to freezing rain or back to snow. So, if you must travel, wait for melting conditions and clear roads. Remember, secondary roads may take a while for street crews to clear.
8. Use Kitty Litter for Traction
Always steer in the direction you want to go, and if you get stuck, gently turn your wheels left to right to push out some snow. Then, use a shovel to dig the snow out of the way, and place kitty litter under the wheels to give them traction. Apply the gas slowly. Adjust from forward to reverse and repeat, and apply the gas each time in gear until the car moves.
9. Stay Near the Gate
At the airport, gate agents will help with making announcements about more than flight status. They also announce lodging options and alternative flights. Keep someone near the gate while another member of your party goes off to hunt for snacks, and don’t forget the power of meal vouchers.
Finally, preparedness is half the battle when you’re stuck traveling in bad weather. Obviously, you can’t predict the weather, but you can check the weather reports and keep emergency items close by.
Pack kitty litter, a shovel, flashlights, emergency blankets, water and nonperishable food in your car. A travel first-aid kit will address many issues. Always pack that extra battery pack or charger. Being stuck doesn’t have to suck, and bringing your itinerary indoors can generate a spontaneous adventure.
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