Good tidings while riding: Safety tips for driving home for the holidays

Toronto may be home for many, but it’s not always where we say we’re “from.” Over the holidays, thousands of Torontonians close their laptops, pack their cars with gifts (and sometimes dirty laundry) and brave winter traffic on the long drive back to their hometowns.

Whether the destination is a few hours away down the 401, a straight shot up to Northern Ontario or a multi-day drive through Quebec into Atlantic Canada, holiday road trips are simply a part of life for many who live in Toronto. And although wireless networks cover most major towns and travel corridors, there are still many stretches of road that traditional cellular service doesn’t reach.

That’s why planning ahead matters. A little foresight and preparation can turn the most daunting return home into something fun, festive and safe. Here are five things Torontonians should consider before heading back home this holiday season:

1. Check the weather twice, then check it again

From lake-effect snowfalls, blowing gusts of wind to sudden temperature drops and icy roads, holiday travel can mean navigating through unexpected weather conditions that can pose a real challenge for drivers. Using the AccuWeather app to monitor all conditions along your exact route, and rechecking regularly when stopped, can help you identify trouble spots before they’re on top of you.

2. Make sure your vehicle is prepped for long-distance winter driving

The classic car maintenance checklist is especially important during long winter travel. Install your winter tires (and make sure they’re in good shape), check your tire pressure, top up your windshield washer fluid (and bring an extra jug) and make sure your vehicle battery is healthy. Having your mechanic conduct a quick pre-trip inspection is never a bad idea.

3. Pack a winter emergency kit

There are a number of helpful resources online that can provide ideas on what to bring with you, but many consider these items the most important:

• First-aid kit: Include bandages, gauze, antiseptic wipes and any personal prescriptions.

• Flashlight: A crank-style one is ideal, as batteries can drain in the cold. If using a battery-operated version, bring extra batteries.

• Warmth: Include at least one warm blanket, and extra hats, gloves and socks for each passenger.

• Traction supplies: A bag of sand, kitty litter (avoid road salt) or another abrasive material can help if you get stuck.

• Winter tools: A snow brush, ice scraper and small shovel are crucial for clearing your vehicle.

• Booster cables: You will need these to jump-start your car if the battery dies.

• Phone charging: A mobile phone charger and cable alongside an external charging battery are useful additions.

4. Drive with a calm, patient mindset

The roads will be busy, the weather will be unpredictable and some of your fellow motorists may be impatient, aggressive and rude. Don’t let these things get to you. Patience is a virtue when driving in the winter, and a calm demeanour can go a long way in ensuring your travels are safe and uneventful.

5. Make sure you can stay connected on the side of the road

Winter road trips can still include stretches of highway where cell service drops off. Rogers Satellite helps fill these gaps by automatically connecting most modern smartphones to satellites when you’re outside of traditional cellular coverage areas.

Just ahead of the holidays, Rogers announced the launch of Rogers Satellite, a first-of-its-kind service now supporting some of the most popular satellite-ready apps, including WhatsApp, Google Maps, AccuWeather, X and CalTopo, with coverage up to the 58th parallel. This means you can now use Rogers Satellite to make app-based voice calls, access mapping, check weather and stay in touch using most modern smartphones in areas where traditional cell coverage is not available.

To use satellite-ready apps with Rogers Satellite, it’s best to make sure that your vehicle is stopped safely on the side of the road first, that you’re using an optimized device updated with the latest operating system, and that you have a clear, unobstructed view of the sky.

The winter journey home is part of the holiday ritual for many Torontonians. Through proper planning, paired with knowing you can stay connected if you need to, this holiday travel ritual can be calmer, safer and a little more enjoyable.

Rogers customers on select plans can enjoy Rogers Satellite for promotional periods at no additional cost. All Canadians can sign up for Rogers Satellite for $15/month, with beta trial participants receiving a $5/month discount for the first 12 months.

To learn more about Rogers Satellite, including information about service availability and limitations, rogers.com/satellite.