Driving during the winter can be quite the challenge, especially if you're not necessarily used to driving in winter weather. This winter is one of the coldest winters we've seen as a nation in a long time, and colder temperatures undoubtedly lead to problems on the road caused by snow and ice. For many drivers, the focus typically remains to get to where they need to be by a certain time without allowing extra travel time for traveling in inclement weather. Situations like rain or sleet, and sometimes snow can lead to ice or black ice, which is incredibly dangerous for drivers.

Thankfully, there are a lot of handy products that can help drivers take precautionary measures to ensure safe driving practices in winter weather. Take a look at some of the products we recommend having on hand during the winter months, even if you live in an area that it's always affected by snow and ice.

Spare Phone Charger

How many times have you gotten in your head, headed fifteen minutes down the road only to realize that your cell phone is almost dead, and you forgot your phone charger? There are some awesome solar phone chargers out there today, which are perfect for charging your phone on the go on sunny days. Keep in mind, these types of chargers do need a few hours of direct sunlight in order to recharge your phone without wires. Since the winter is usually fairly gray and the sun isn't shining a whole lot, depending on your location, this might not be the best option for you. A wired phone charger should be a staple item that is kept in your car at all times. I have several car chargers- I keep one in my car, one in my hubby's car, and even have a spare in my glove box, which I can take into a coffee shop it I need to sit and charge my phone. No one wants to be caught in an emergency situation without a reliable way to call for help.

Emergency Kit

Every driver, regardless of age, experience, or what time of year it is, should have an emergency kit in their car at all times. You can purchase pre-made kits at auto stores or at mass retailers like Target and Walmart or on Amazon. From the time you are a teen/new driver, you should know what's in your car kit, and keep tabs on what needs to be replaced and when. First aid essentials, bottled water, non-perishable foods like granola bars, and a flashlight with spare batteries should be staples in your emergency car kit.

A Blanket

Don't leave home without a blanket in your car. You may never need to use it, but if you wind up stranded on the side of the road in a snowstorm or find a helpless, wandering dog, you will be so glad to have this simple item in your car. It might just save a life!

De-Icer and a Scraper

You'd be surprised to find out how quickly ice can accumulate on your windshield if you're caught out driving in freezing temps and bad weather. Make sure to keep a reliable de-icer in your car, along with a scraper. I like the dual ended scrapers that are long-handled and have a wide scraper on one side, and a brush on the other. This helps you quickly brush away what has been scraped before it has a chance to refreeze.

If you live in an area which receives a lot of snow and ice, you probably already change yur tires out, according to the season. Even if you live in a warmer climate, you might want to consider not driving on summer tires during the winter, just in case. 

You might have to take a few extra steps to prep your car for winter travel, but ultimately, your safety and the safety of those on the road around you depends on it.

This post brought to you by Humes Chrysler Jeep Dodge.