Renting a car in Varna, Bulgaria gives you so many opportunities to enjoy winter. It is not only about the planned road trip to a super famous ski resort in the Bulgarian mountains, but it is also for the traditional winter family reunion over the holidays. However, driving in winter can be a serious challenge, so pay attention winter lovers to the following winter driving tips with rented car:
1. Weather conditions
One of the most essential points when planning a trip in winter is to double check the weather forecast. It doesn’t matter if you rent a car for a long-distance road trip in Bulgaria or you hire a car to drive to the nearest town just to drink a nice hot chocolate with friends, an unexpected winter storm can be a serious problem for your safety on the road and afterwards ruin your plans.
2. Winterize the car
Prepare your car for winter driving and look though even the smallest details, because severe winter weather might not be favorably to your car’s weaknesses. Winter may put unusual demands on your car. We highly recommend checking the level of your anti-freeze and the battery charging system. Remember to put the winter tires, keep snow chains and ice scraper in your car.
Moreover, inspect the heater system for any possible leaks and if the window defroster is working properly. Better examine the brakes of the car and replace the wiper blades if they are worn. If you decide to use rental car services in Bulgaria, we strongly advise you to check the essentials.
3. Safety first
Wearing your seat belt every single road trip is not only a winter driving tip, it is a must! Remember, you are the driver and you need to take care of the passenger’s safety. Protect children under age 4 with special booster seats which should be properly installed in the back seats. Keep distance on the road and concentrate more while driving. Try to avoid risky driving behaviors. When driving on snow or on ice, better slow down and don’t rush, because driving in winter might be tricky.
4. Emergency kit
Make sure your emergency kit is well-stocked for your winter trip. The basic items we recommend are first aid kit, a flashlight with extra batteries, a whistle, flares, candles, a lighter or matches, a wrench, pliers, a dust mask, garbage bags, some towelettes and a can opener. Preparing for the road trip some non-perishable food, bottles of water and blankets, is also important. You may find many of these items really helpful if you rent a car and something unexpected happens on the road.
5. Current location and planned route
When driving in winter it is always better to inform someone about your travel plans in advance. Just call or leave some text messages to your friend or family member with information about your current location and planned route. In this case, if you have problems on the road and you can’t contact anyone, you will have someone who will search for you if you do not arrive in the expected time.
We do hope that the above mentioned winter driving tips will help you to prepare for one unforgettable winter road trip in Bulgaria and drive safe!