Driving for the holidays? How to make your road trip safe

Be sure you have the right equipment, apps for weather and traffic before you hit the highway

- ERIC A TAUB

GETTING READY FOR a road trip to visit the family during the holidays? Unfortunately, you're not alone—far from it. While there's nothing we can do to shoo away your fellow travellers or improve the weather, here are some tips to maximise your comfort and minimise the hiccups.

Prepare your car

Make sure you've got emergency essentials. That includes water, a phone charger and a power bank, a flashlight, extra blankets and coats, a first aid kit, an ice scraper and snow brush, a small shovel, and a reflective emergency triangle. And if you're travelling with a furry friend, don't forget pet food. To guard against sudden flats and under inflated spare tyres, consider investing in a portable air pump.

Check your tyres