Heading on Holiday? How to Prep Your Car for Long-Distance Winter Trips
24 December 2025
Long winter journeys can be some of the most exciting - travelling to see family, taking a festive break, or escaping for a winter getaway. But cold weather, icy roads, reduced daylight and unpredictable conditions mean your car needs more preparation than usual.
Whether you're driving across the country or heading to the coast for a few days, making sure your vehicle is ready for winter, which is essential for a safe, comfortable and stress-free trip.
1st Tip: Check Your Tyres Before a Long Winter Drive
Your tyres are the only point of contact between your car and the road, so they are very important to keep them in good working condition.
Let’s break it down further:
Tread Depth
Legally, tyres must have a minimum tread of 1.6mm, but for winter journeys, 3mm or more is recommended for better grip in wet or icy conditions. If your tyres are close to the legal limit, a long winter trip is a good reason to consider replacing them.
Tyre Pressure
Cold weather causes tyre pressure to drop naturally, which can affect steering response, braking performance, and fuel efficiency. Before travelling, check your tyre pressures when the tyres are cold and inflate them according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. Incorrect pressure can also cause uneven wear, increasing the risk of tyre failure on long journeys.
Consider Winter or All-Season Tyres
If you regularly drive long distances in winter, switching tyres can make a significant difference. Winter tyres are designed to perform better in temperatures below 7°C, offering improved grip and shorter stopping distances on cold, wet, or icy roads. All-season tyres provide a practical alternative for drivers who want year-round performance without changing tyres seasonally. You can explore suitable options via Setyres’ car tyres range before setting off.
2nd Tip: Inspect Your Brakes
Your brakes work harder in winter due to slippery road conditions and longer stopping distances. Before a long trip, it’s important to ensure they’re in working well.
Listen and feel for warning signs such as squeaking or grinding noises, vibrations through the brake pedal, or a pedal that feels soft or unresponsive. These symptoms can indicate worn brake pads, warped discs, or issues with brake fluid. If anything feels unusual, it’s best to book a brake inspection before travelling rather than risk reduced stopping power on roads in winter.
3rd Tip: Check Your Battery and Lights
Winter is the season for battery failure. Signs your battery may be weakening include slow engine turnover, dim interior lights or a clicking sound when starting the car.
Also make sure you check:
- Headlights
- Brake lights
- Indicators
- Fog lights
And carry spare bulbs if possible. If you’re unsure about your battery’s condition or notice warning lights, a diagnostic check before travelling can help prevent an unexpected breakdown.
4th Tip: Top Up Essential Fluids
Before a long winter trip, check your:
- Engine oil
- Coolant/antifreeze
- Windscreen washer fluid (winter formula recommended)
- Brake fluid
Use a winter-grade screenwash to prevent freezing, and ensure your coolant contains enough antifreeze to protect the engine in low temperatures. Running low on fluids during a long journey can cause overheating, braking issues, or reduced visibility.
5th Tip: Wipers, Windows and Visibility
Winter driving often means rain, sleet, road spray, and early darkness, all of which affect visibility. Worn wiper blades can smear water across the windscreen, making it harder to see clearly.
Check your wipers for cracks or streaking and replace them if necessary. Inspect your windscreen for chips, as cold temperatures can cause small cracks to spread. Make sure your heater and demister work efficiently so windows clear quickly when condensation builds up. If fogging is a recurring issue, it’s worth addressing it before your journey rather than struggling on the road. If your windows keep fogging, Setyres has a helpful guide you can read here.
6th Tip: Pack a Winter Emergency Kit
Long-distance winter trips require extra preparation in case of delays or breakdowns. Having an emergency kit can make a stressful situation much safer and more comfortable.
Pack:
- Ice scraper and de-icer
- Torch and spare batteries
- Blanket and warm clothing
- Water and snacks
- Phone charger and power bank
- First aid kit
- Warning triangle
- Spare tyre and tools
These items can be invaluable if you’re stuck waiting for assistance in low temperatures.
7th Tip: Get Your Car Serviced Before You Travel
Booking a service before a long winter journey can help identify issues you may not notice during everyday driving. A full or interim service checks key safety and performance components, reducing the risk of problems developing mid-journey.
During a service, technicians will inspect brakes, tyres, lights, battery condition, fluid levels, and steering and suspension components. This gives you confidence that your car is ready for extended driving in challenging winter conditions.
8th Tip: Drive with Care in Winter Conditions
Even with a perfectly prepared car, driving conditions can be unpredictable.
Remember to:
- Reduce speed in wet, icy or snowy conditions
- Increase stopping distances
- Avoid harsh braking
- Use lower gears on steep or slippery terrain
And always keep an eye on weather warnings before you set off.
Travelling With Pets? Here’s What You Need to Know
If your winter trip includes your dog or cat, extra planning is essential. Pets should always be secured using a seatbelt harness, travel crate, or boot guard to prevent injury and distraction while driving.
Maintain a comfortable temperature inside the car, ensuring good ventilation without blasting hot air directly at your pet. Plan regular stops for water, food, and exercise, especially on longer journeys, to help them stay calm and comfortable.
Never leave pets alone in a cold car. Just as overheating is dangerous in summer, winter temperatures can quickly lead to hypothermia.
Book a Service with Setyres Today
Book a servicing with Setyres today before going on a long-distance journey in winter conditions. Find out what is included in a car service here.
If you're travelling in cold conditions, consider upgrading to winter tyres or all-season tyres for extra grip and stability on icy or wet roads. Our team can recommend the best tyres for your vehicle and driving style.