In anticipation of the New Year holidays, many companies hit the road, which is why highways are usually overloaded during this period.

Before setting off, Nokian Tyres Technical Director Matti Morri recommends making sure that both the car and the driver are fully ready for the trip. Particular attention should be paid to the condition of the tires and their pressure levels.

“Before a long trip, always check the tire pressure. Don't forget to increase it by 0.2 bar (20 kPa) above the recommendations of your car manufacturer. This way, grip will remain reliable even in case of a sudden cold snap. If the car is loaded to the brim, add another 0.5 bar”, advises Matti Morri.

By the way, our experiment clearly showed that increased pressure contributes to fuel savings:

When inflating, don't forget about the spare tire, which may be needed at any moment. An important nuance: the pressure in the spare wheel should be higher than usual, because over time it gradually decreases. It's better to take care of this in advance so you don't have to pump the wheel right on the roadside.

In addition to checking the tires, you should also:

  • check the washer fluid reservoir — it should be filled with non-freezing fluid, and it should generally be present;
  • when loading luggage, place heavy items at the bottom. Experienced drivers also recommend securing all items properly to avoid a situation like in the video. Otherwise, you'll find out for yourself where and how things scatter during an accident;
  • keep in mind that a fully loaded car takes longer to stop than an empty one. You need to reduce speed on slippery sections and before turns.

“You can't foresee everything. Therefore, be sure to take a reflective vest, a flashlight, warm clothes, a snack, and a thermos with hot tea on the road. This will be very helpful if you find yourself in a traffic jam or get stuck on the way. Don't forget to take breaks to rest. And most importantly — keep a festive mood. It's the best companion on a Christmas trip,” summarizes Matti Morri.

Let us also remind you that AvtoPortal has already published a list of things worth taking with you in winter in case of unforeseen situations.