Relocating long distance in the winter?

When I think of driving a long distance in the winter months, November through April, I always prepare for the worst in winter weather.  To us in Vermont, this means proper tires, a shovel, flash light, jumper cables and a warm blanket or two in the car.  You never know when you will be trapped in an impossible traffic jam caused by ice or snow, slide off the road, or be stranded in white out conditions.

In New England we take these harsh conditions into stride, but with the  recent weather events all over the country this winter I often think of those poor people that are not used to this wintry weather, and are stuck in it.

One thing we see time and time again are vehicles and owners thinking that all weather tires or new summer tires are just fine in the snow!?  If you are in the snow for any length of time you will appreciate your car's ability to operate safely with snow tires.  With all of the recent ice events, studded snow tires and 4 wheel drive make all the difference in the world in the way the automobile operates.

If you are relocating in the winter, and you need to drive through an area where winter weather is possible, watch weather reports for a number of days before your trip, equip your car with the list of items above and spend the extra money for good tires!  This will enable you to weather the bad driving conditions more safely and with less hassle.

Here is a good overview of  tire selection by Consumers Reports.

https://www.consumerreports.org/winter-driving/best-tires-to-buy-for-winter-driving/