Here at our car dealership near Skokie, IL, it’s cold. The cold brings snow and ice, and snow and ice add a whole new dimension to driving. Couple that with the fact that many of us drive long distances to be together with family and friends this month. Are you up for the challenges of a long winter drive? Is your car? We’ve put together a few tips to help you get where you’re going with less hassle.

Before embarking on a long drive, have a game plan. While weather is notoriously difficult to predict, be sure to keep an eye on weather reports from a few days out. Leaving the night before you were planning, or conversely, a morning later can mean a little less time with family but a lot more peace of mind on the road. Additionally, be sure to let other folks know the route you’re taking, and when you’re heading out. This will give them the information they need to follow up if you run into trouble on the road.

What’s that old adage? “Hope for the best. Plan for the worst.” In the wintertime, accidents up ahead or sudden changes in weather can leave you stuck in place for a long time. It’s important you have what you need to ride out a delay while in harsh winter conditions. It’s a great idea to put together a bag of blankets, gloves, hats, food, and water, along with any needed medications, and keep it in the car at all times. We also recommend keeping the gas tank at least half full at all times.

Most importantly, you want to make sure your car is in good working order. Schedule a Jaguar auto service appointment here at Jaguar Northfield before Old Man Winter really starts to make his presence known. And it is December, so don’t forget to check out the Jaguar vehicles for sale this holiday season. For more great winter driving tips, check out this winter driving guide from the NHTSA.