With record breaking snow at the end of 2017, traveling has been a major pain for those who have to drive in order to go to parties or visit family members. There has been many car wrecks recently because of hazardous weather conditions, unmaintained roads, and very ignorant drivers. Thanks to Exchange.AAA.com, there are many driving tips for in the winter while traveling, short and long distances. I have some traveling tips of my own along with these helpful tips from AAA! [Link in description below]

*= my personal tips

@= AAA tips

*1) Always Keep Cat litter in the Trunk of Your Car

Depending on what type of car you have, this could add weight to your car to make your car heavier while you drive. I use cat litter just in case I were to get stuck in a driveway or somewhere on the road. (Salt works the same way too)

@* 2) Always Keep Extra Blankets, Hats, Gloves and Coats in the Trunk of Your Car

If you ever get stuck or your car breaks down in the middle of winter, your car can freeze up quick and you could be placed in a dangerous situation. While waiting for help to come, you are going to become very cold, so these extra blankets, hats, gloves, and coats are meant to keep you warm when you can't rely on mechanical heat from your car.

@* 3) Always Keep a First Aid Kit in Your Vehicle

Medical emergencies always happen, a first aid kit on hand is always helpful when the unexpected happens. Whether it is as simple as a paper cut or as severe as a victim from a motor collision, having this helpful tool with you while traveling with key! (Also having a First Aid and CPR certificate/knowledge will aid in prolonging the life of a victim if the unexpected happens)

@* 4) Always Keep Your Gas Tank at Least Halfway Full

According to the Exchange.AAA.com website on winter driving tips, "Keep your gas tank at least half full to avoid gas line freeze-up... and at all times." If you are stuck in the road or in traffic, the gas will keep your car's heat on so you can stay warm as well, :)

@* 5) Always Keep a Phone in Your Vehicle

This could be your personal cellular device or a cheap pay-to-go phone that you bought from the dollar store. Make sure that you have a [compatible] charger for these phones just in case of an emergency!

With the weather as crazy as it is, getting from point A to point B can be challenging in the winter months, doing it safely may take extra effort, but can keep you and others on the road safe as well. This list is just a small portion of what you can do while traveling in the winter, for more information on how to travel safely please go to

www.exchange.aaa.com/safety/driving-advice/winter-driving-tips/#.Wklx-ytOmaN

Drive safe and have a happy New Year!