Winter Weather Commuting Tips
We have all heard our parents remind us to take our coat because of the weather, but that’s not the only thing you can do to improve your commute in the cold weather. Winter commuting is often unpredictable, stressful, and unpleasant, which is why we’ve come up with a few tips to keep you safe and comfortable during your trips this winter. Whether you bike, bus, walk, or drive, there are things you can do to make for a more comfortable commute this time of year.
Save time in the morning because there is no need to “warm-up” your car before hitting the road. According to the EPA, modern cars do not need to be warmed up before you start driving. Leaving your car to warm up can cause air pollution, fuel waste, and increases wear on your engine. The tradition of warming up your car comes from older vehicles (pre-1980s) that required warming up for at least a couple of minutes so that the correct blend of air and fuel could be delivered to the engine. The tradition has continued even though the best way to warm up your modern engine and heat your car is to start driving.
Bundle up! Your parent was right. Layers are essential to staying warm during colder temperatures and can make for a much more comfortable winter commute. Whether you are riding the bus or a bike, keeping yourself warm is crucial. If you are cycling, consider investing in fenders or mudguards, which can help keep moisture from the road or trail from getting on your clothes. Also, don’t forget your hat! A hat will make all the difference while cycling, walking, or waiting for your bus to arrive.
Multi-modal commuting in the winter can keep you comfortable and safe in all conditions. Are you concerned that the bike trips may be too long in the colder temperatures? Ride your bike to the bus stop, and enjoy a chauffeured commute to work!
Cycling to work in the winter surprisingly can save you a lot of time as you can beat the congested traffic to get to your destination quicker. However, cycling in the winter may seem riskier. Stick to the main roads, which are more likely to be gritted. Wear hi-vis clothing and use lights since your winter commute is darker than other times of the year.
Be seen! Cycling and walking continue to be great commute options, even in the colder months. However, with shorter days and often dark commutes, make sure others can see you too! Outfit your bike with lights and reflective material and wear bright colored clothes (or reflective clothing).
No matter what mode you use, make sure to budget more time for your commute during winter. Lousy weather expected the next day? Make a plan for an earlier start the next day to keep your day on track from the get-go. Take an earlier bus or start a few minutes earlier than usual to allow for any delays.
Keep your feet warm and dry for a happy commute and productive day. Your favorite sneakers may not be the best bet in wet or cold weather. Water-proof insulated shoes or shoe covers can help keep you happy and warm. Also, stash an extra pair of socks in your work bag if you get wet on your commute trekking or riding through the snow or rain.
Get clean! Water, dirt, and muck can affect the performance of any product. Keep your bike, shoes, jackets, gloves, hats, etc., clean to get the best performance possible.
Take the bus when the roads are bad. Are snow and ice causing you a rough or stressful commute? Switch up your commute and take the bus when the weather is terrible. Bus travel is 60 times safer than car travel. Leave your car and commute stress at home and take the bus. Don’t forget to download the ValleyConnect App, so you can easily purchase a bus ticket on the go on those bad weather days.
Stay informed and check information about your commute before leaving the house. Winter commuting, particularly on those snowy days, can cause closures, delays, and detours that impact our commute. Give yourself time in the morning to check the information relative to your commute. Are you taking the bus? Download the Route Shout 2.0 app to check and see where your bus is and if there are delays by clicking here. Vanpooling or carpooling? Check-in with your fellow riders to make sure everyone is on the same page. Biking or driving? Check road conditions and collision reports to see what may impact your commute.
No matter which mode of travel you choose this winter, City Go is here to simplify your commute. The future of transportation isn’t just one way of traveling, it’s multi-modal. City Go helps you find convenient and flexible options for every season for commuting in downtown Boise. With a City Go membership, you can purchase discounted mobility passes for the modes that work best to get you downtown this winter. Click here to see more information about all the impressive benefits.