A self drive ski holiday to the Alps can be a thoroughly enjoyable and rewarding experience. The flowing roads and scenic mountainous backdrops make it one of the most stunning drives in the world. However, if you’re ill prepared, the journey can be difficult or even dangerous. So if you’re planning a self drive ski holiday this year, take a moment to consider the following points.

The drive to the Alps is a relatively long one, so before you set off it’s important to ensure your vehicle is in a suitable state for the journey. Be sure to top up the engine with oil, water and anti-freeze. Check the battery and fan belt are in good condition, tyres are at optimum pressure and that the heating is working.

There are also legal requirements you must adhere to in different countries. For instance, in France all vehicles must carry a high visibility safety jacket and a triangular red warning sign. When driving difficult mountain roads, snow chains are not only advisable, but also a legal requirement. Be sure to check the regulations in each country you plan to travel through before leaving.

Essential items that should be taken on the journey are a shovel, de-icer, windscreen scraper, spare headlight bulbs, tow ropes, heavy duty gloves and matches to thaw out any iced up car locks. Be sure you know how to make any basic roadside repairs, including how to change a tyre and how to fit snow chains.

There are a number of other simple things you can do to make your journey as stress-free as possible. For example, whenever you stop for a break, park your car facing downhill and ideally in the direction you will be wishing to move off in. Also, lift your windscreen wipers away from the front and back windscreens, so that they can be easily moved if it snows heavily. If possible, leave your car in gear, so that you do not have to use the handbrake as it is possible for handbrakes to freeze into position.

It is advisable to try and use the highest possible gear in a manual transmission car, especially when driving from a stationary position, so you can avoid using high revs when moving. Let your engine run for a while before heading out as having a warm engine reduces the possibility of your vehicle stalling. Also, be aware that driving at altitude uses more fuel, so plan ahead and schedule regular fuel stops.

People are often unsure about the best course of action to take if you are skidding on ice. There are many contradicting arguments for the best course of action, but if your vehicle skidding, be sure to steer into the skid and do not use the brakes.

The Alps are a wonderful spectacle, but can be a treacherous route to travel if you are not well prepared. Follow this advice and you will have a self drive skiing holiday to remember, for all the right reasons.