Holiday Road Ready: Travel Safe in Calgary's Winter Wonderland

The holiday season in Calgary brings twinkling lights, festive gatherings, and the promise of quality time with loved ones. Whether you're heading to the mountains for a ski weekend, driving to visit family in Red Deer, or making the trek to Edmonton for holiday shopping, winter road trips are part of our Alberta tradition.

But let's be honest, Calgary's winter roads demand respect. Between unpredictable Chinooks, sudden snowstorms, and those notorious icy stretches on Deerfoot Trail, your vehicle needs to be as ready for winter as you are. At Bowest Motors, we've been keeping Calgary families safe on the road since 1958, and we know exactly what it takes to prepare your vehicle for winter travel.

Before you load up the car with presents and pack the kids in the backseat, let's make sure your vehicle is truly holiday road ready.

Top 5 Pre-Trip Checks Before You Hit the Holiday Highways

Your holiday road trip should be filled with sing-alongs and scenic views, not roadside breakdowns. These five essential checks will help ensure your journey stays merry and bright.

Winter Tires: Your First Line of Defense

If you haven't made the switch yet, now's the time. Winter tires aren't just recommended in Alberta, they're essential. The rubber compound in winter tires stays flexible in cold temperatures, providing better traction on snow and ice. Check your tread depth using the toonie test: insert a toonie into the tread with the caribou facing down. If you can see the caribou's nose, it's time for new tires. At Bowest Motors, we can help you select and install the right winter tires for your vehicle and driving needs.

Battery Health: Don't Get Left in the Cold

Cold weather is brutal on car batteries. In fact, a battery loses about 35% of its power at freezing temperatures. Before your trip, have your battery tested at Bowest Motors. We'll check the charge, inspect the terminals for corrosion, and ensure your battery can handle Calgary's winter demands. A failing battery often shows warning signs like slow engine cranking or dimming headlights, don't ignore these red flags.

Fluid Levels: Keep Everything Flowing

Winter requires special attention to your vehicle's fluids. Your windshield washer fluid should be rated for temperatures well below zero (we recommend -40°C rated fluid). Check your antifreeze mixture to ensure it protects your engine down to at least -40°C. Top up your oil if needed, and consider switching to a winter-weight oil if you haven't already. Low visibility and extreme temperatures make proper fluid levels critical.

Brake System: Stop When It Matters Most

Stopping distances increase dramatically on winter roads. Your brakes need to be in top condition. Listen for any grinding, squealing, or unusual noises when braking. If your brake pedal feels spongy or your vehicle pulls to one side when stopping, visit us before your trip. We'll inspect your brake pads, rotors, and brake fluid to ensure you can stop safely, even on black ice.

Lights and Visibility: See and Be Seen

With shorter daylight hours and frequent snowfall, your lights work overtime in winter. Check all headlights, taillights, brake lights, and turn signals. Replace any burnt-out bulbs and clean all lenses. Don't forget to inspect your wiper blades, winter blades with rubber boots prevent ice buildup and provide better clearing in heavy snow.

Packing Like a Pro: Winter Essentials for Your Trunk

Even the most well-maintained vehicle can face unexpected challenges on winter roads. Your emergency kit could make the difference between a minor inconvenience and a dangerous situation.

The Winter Survival Kit

Every Calgary driver should carry a winter emergency kit. Start with the basics: a blanket or sleeping bag (one per passenger is ideal), non-perishable snacks like granola bars, bottled water, and a first aid kit. Add a flashlight with extra batteries, matches in a waterproof container, and a portable phone charger.

Tools and Equipment

Pack an ice scraper and snow brush (keep a spare in the trunk), booster cables, a small shovel, and a bag of sand or kitty litter for traction if you get stuck. Flares or reflective triangles alert other drivers if you're stopped on the roadside. A tow rope and basic toolkit can help with minor issues.

Smart Add-Ons

Consider packing extra winter clothing, including gloves, a warm hat, and extra socks. Throw in a candle and an empty coffee can, the candle provides surprising warmth in an enclosed space like your vehicle. Keep a list of emergency contacts, including Bowest Motors (we're here Monday through Friday, 8 AM to 5 PM), your insurance company, and roadside assistance numbers.

Staying Safe on Icy Roads: Bowest's Best Driving Tips

Proper vehicle preparation is only half the battle. Smart winter driving habits keep you safe when conditions turn treacherous.

Adjust Your Driving Style

Slow down and increase your following distance to at least eight to ten seconds. This gives you time to react to sudden stops or sliding vehicles. Accelerate and decelerate gradually to maintain traction. Avoid sudden movements, smooth, deliberate actions are key to controlling your vehicle on ice and snow.

Know How to Handle Skids

If your vehicle starts to skid, stay calm. Take your foot off the accelerator and steer in the direction you want to go. Avoid slamming on the brakes, which can make the skid worse. If you have anti-lock brakes (most modern vehicles do), apply steady pressure to the brake pedal and let the system do its job.

Watch for Black Ice

Black ice forms when temperatures hover around freezing, especially on bridges, overpasses, and shaded areas. If the road looks wet but surrounding surfaces appear dry, assume it's ice. Be extra cautious in the early morning and late evening when temperatures drop.

Plan Your Route and Timing

Check road conditions on Alberta 511 before you leave. Plan your route to avoid secondary highways if a storm is forecast. Leave early to avoid rushing, and let someone know your route and expected arrival time. If conditions deteriorate significantly, don't hesitate to pull over and wait it out at a safe location.

Giving Back: How Bowest Supports Calgary Families in December

At Bowest Motors, we believe in taking care of our community, especially during the holiday season. This year marks our 67th year serving Bowness and NW Calgary, and giving back has always been part of our family values.

Throughout December, we partner with local organizations to support Calgary families facing challenges. We've participated in toy drives, supported local food banks, and offered discounted vehicle inspections for families in need. Our team knows that reliable transportation isn't a luxury, it's essential for getting to work, taking kids to school, and maintaining family connections.

We're also committed to educating our community about vehicle safety. Through free seasonal check-up clinics and educational workshops, we help Calgary drivers understand their vehicles and stay safe year-round.

The holiday season reminds us why we do what we do. When you trust Bowest Motors with your vehicle, you're not just another customer, you're part of our extended family. We want to see you arrive safely at your destination and return home with wonderful memories.

Ready for Your Holiday Journey?

Don't wait until the last minute to prepare your vehicle for winter travel. Book your pre-trip inspection at Bowest Motors today. Our experienced technicians will thoroughly check your vehicle and address any concerns before you hit the road.

Visit us at 8305 Bowness Rd. NW, call to schedule your appointment, or drop by Monday through Friday between 8 AM and 5 PM. Let's make sure this holiday season is filled with safe travels and happy memories.

From all of us at Bowest Motors, drive safe and happy holidays! 🚗❄️