How to Beat Winter Like a Canadian Driver

Chidi Ohiaeri
by Chidi Ohiaeri

Winter happens to people all over the world, but there is nothing quite like a Canadian winter.

Because of the severity of a Canadian winter compared to other regions, a Canadian winter driver must go above and beyond to tackle the season effectively.

The first thing to do is to have a smart plan for getting your vehicle winter-ready and also equipping yourself with the tools to help should an emergency occur while driving during the season.

How to Beat Winter Like a Canadian Driver

Keep a Watchful Eye on Your Battery

Your battery will be taking a bigger hit during winter because cold starts require your battery to work much harder than usual. In the event your battery loses its charge, it is better to be prepared and have a strong battery booster in your trunk to help you out in case of an emergency. Here is a top-rated battery booster to help with that: Booster PAC ES5000.


Check Tire Pressure Levels at Least Once a Week

Not all vehicles are equipped with tire pressure sensors and if you own a vehicle without that feature, it is advisable to have a portable tire pressure pump to ensure your tire pressures are always at the optimum levels. Here is a well-rated tire pressure pump you can also keep in the trunk: Family Tool Automotive 12V Tire Inflator.


Invest in Winter Tires

Winter tires are an absolute necessity, even if your car has all-wheel drive. Simply put, winter tires provide more grip in the snow and in the cold and help you brake faster, something AWD doesn’t do. For those who are looking for the best combination of durability, affordability, and performance in a winter tire, Michelin offers a very competitive product that also happens to have exceptional tread life. Check it out here: Michelin X-Ice Xi3 Winter Radial Tire.

ALSO SEE: Why You Absolutely Need Winter Tires, Even If You Have All-Wheel Drive


Have a Handy Mini Shovel Ready

Snowstorms can be unpredictable and you might find yourself in the middle of one at an unexpected time. Should you need to clear debris out of your way before driving off, a mini shovel can make light work of this and can be easily stored in your trunk. Here is a highly rated folding shovel with a portable carrying pouch to help you: OUTLIFE Foldable Military Shovel.


Emergency Medical Kit

It’s wise to invest in a multipurpose emergency kit, even if you hope to never use it. The best ones have heat blankets in them in case you get trapped in the cold. Here is a top-rated emergency kit you can check out: First Aid Only All-Purpose Kit.


Portable Phone Chargers

Making sure your phone is always charged is a good thing in general, but during winter when your phone can be a lifeline in emergency situations with your car, a powerful portable phone charger can help keep your phone on long enough to connect you with emergency services should you need them for whatever reason. Here is a charger that is compatible with both Android and Apple devices as well as Windows devices: RAVPower 16750 Power Bank


The Wise Guide team writes about things we think you’ll like, introducing you to great products, services and special deals. We do have affiliate partnerships, so we may earn revenue from the products and services you buy.

Chidi Ohiaeri
Chidi Ohiaeri

Chidi loves talking about cars. He enjoys exploring the limits of new car technology and performance vehicles. When he is not writing features for AutoGuide, you will most likely find him perusing Kijiji or Autotrader listings for unique classic nameplates.

More by Chidi Ohiaeri

Comments
Join the conversation
Next