How to Prepare for a Safe Ski Trip This Winter
As the snowflakes begin to fall and ski season ramps up in the NSW and Victorian alps, thousands of families are gearing up for their annual winter ski trip. July school holidays are fast approaching, and forecasts are predicting a bumper snow season, making it the perfect time for an alpine escape.
But before you load up the roof pod and pack the thermals, let’s talk about the most important part of your holiday: getting there safely. Driving to the snow comes with unique risks, from black ice and snow-covered roads to wildlife in the countryside. Here’s how to prepare for a safe ski trip this winter.
1. Understand the Hazards of Winter Driving
Alpine roads in July can be tricky, even for confident drivers. The key culprits?
- Snow and slush that reduce traction
- Black ice, which is nearly invisible and extremely slippery
- Low visibility from fog, snowfall or early sunsets
- Rural hazards like kangaroos, wombats and cattle
It only takes one wrong move or unprepared vehicle to ruin a ski trip. Planning ahead is critical.
2. Is Your Vehicle Snow-Ready?
If you’re driving a 4WD or AWD for your ski trip, make sure you understand the correct drive mode settings for icy conditions. Many modern vehicles have snow or hill-descent modes, check your manual before heading out.
For 2WD vehicles, you may be legally required to carry snow chains when entering alpine regions like Perisher, Thredbo, Mt Hotham or Falls Creek. Don’t leave it to chance, police, resort and National Park staff will check. Plus, you don’t want to end up in a ditch!
Snow Chain Tips
- Buy the right chains for your tyre size (this will be printed on the tyre sidewall)
- Practice fitting them before your trip – preferably in dry, flat conditions
- Fit chains to drive wheels only (front or rear, depending on your vehicle)
- Drive below 40km/h when chains are fitted
- Remove chains as soon as you’re off icy roads to prevent damage to tyres and suspension
3. How to Spot and Avoid Black Ice
Black ice forms when the road is wet and temperatures drop below freezing. It often appears in shaded areas, bridges, or early mornings and looks like a glossy patch of road. You won’t always see it coming.
Tips to avoid black ice-related accidents:
- Reduce speed when driving in alpine or shady areas
- Avoid sudden braking or acceleration
- Use gentle steering inputs
- Keep your headlights on in poor visibility
4. Watch for Wildlife on Country Roads
Once you leave the city for your ski trip, you’re in roo territory. Kangaroos and Wombats are most active at dawn and dusk and can be incredibly unpredictable (or literally just chilling in the middle of the road for no good reason).
Tips for rural road safety:
- Avoid driving at dawn or dusk if possible
- Stay alert and scan road edges
- If a collision is unavoidable, brake firmly but don’t swerve, it sounds horrible but it’s always safer to hit an animal than to veer into oncoming traffic or off-road hazards
5. Are Your Tyres Ready for the Mountains?
Your tyres are your first line of defence when driving in slippery conditions. Before heading off on your ski trip, check:
- Tread depth – Should be at least 3mm (more is better in wet or icy conditions)
- Tyre pressure – Cold air reduces pressure, so top them up before you go
- Tyre condition – Look for cracks, uneven wear or bald patches
If you’re unsure, Wheel Change U can come to you and assess your tyres before the trip. We can supply, fit and balance your new tyres from the comfort of your driveway.
Hit the Slopes on Your Ski Trip Safely With WCU
A family ski trip should be full of fresh powder and warm memories, not roadside dramas. Whether you need tyre advice, a pre-trip check, or a new set of winter-ready rubber, Wheel Change U is here to help.
We come to you, wherever you are, so you can focus on what matters most: getting your family to the mountains and back again, safely.