Winter travel in Wyoming can be an ever-changing challenge, you never really know if the weather will change or what the roads will look like when it does. I've driven a few too many blizzards in my short lifetime and I'm sure will experience several more. If you're planning a winter visit to Wyoming or you're just becoming a winter driver in this state, this list will help you prepare!
10 Things to Keep in Your Car for Winter in WY
Winter Clothes... This means your heavy winter coat, even when it feels like sweater weather. It also means snow pants, snow boots, gloves, and a hat. One of the fastest ways to die in the outdoors is by not being able to regulate your body temperature.
Blanket(s)... This one goes hand in hand with tip #1 anyway you can plan to stay warm in Wyoming's unforgiving winter temperatures is a good thing! Remember, that wind chill will often mean the temperatures are far below what your weatherperson predicted.
First Aid Kid... I keep one of these in my vehicle year-round. We actually used it this last summer on our camping trip, when my friend fell and scraped up her knee. Remember to re-stock any items that you might so that the next time you need them they're there.
Shovel... Here is another item I keep in my vehicle year-round though for different reasons in different seasons. In winter, it's helpful to have in case you get stuck in a snowdrift on the side of the road.
Tire Chains... Without all-wheel drive in Wyoming, there may come a time where your vehicle just cannot get traction on the road, this would be when you want to put on the chains. In the meantime, they give your car more weight which also helps you increase traction.
Sand Bag... Along with adding weight, should you end up digging yourself out of a snowbank on the side of the road, you may still find it very difficult to gain traction. Having some sand along to give that little bit of extra grip under your tires will be a lifesaver!
Water and Snacks... staying hydrated and energized until help arrives is very important. You may not always be able to get out of the snowbank for one reason or another and eating the snow will only increase your dehydration and risk of hypothermia.
Snowbrush/Ice Scraper... Out of towners who haven't experienced much snow before are especially prone to forget this item, but I promise you won't be going anywhere without it when your windshield is covered in a thick layer of ice and snow.
Flashlight... Again, I keep this one in my vehicle year-round, if you break down in the dark it's important to be able to see where you're digging, pouring sand, or laying and hooking chains not to mention being able to find the snacks.
Jumper Cables... It really does get so cold in Wyoming that your car may not want to start after it's been sitting in the freezing temperatures. I've had to have my near brand new battery jumped on a number of occasions because of this. Some capable amateur mechanics will even take their battery inside with them overnight to ensure their car starts when they hook it back up in the morning.
I hope this list helps you prepare for many safe and amazing winter overnight adventures here in Wyoming!
Hey locals! Did I miss anything?
Thank you, fellow adventurers! You can follow the lilmissbearpaw blog page on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter @lilmissbearpaw for sneak peeks into upcoming posts and my adventures. This will also be a great place to share your own adventures!
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