travel on snow

9 of the most brilliant machines to travel on snow

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TH!NK Frost

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Mountain Horse

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Arctic Air boat 

Arctic airboat

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Snow Crawler

Snow crawler

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Snow Glider

Snow glider

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Antarctic Snow Cruiser

Antarctic snow cruiser

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How to Hike in Snowy Conditions

Snow travel requires more technique and precautions than regular hiking. here's how to do it right..

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The onset of winter doesn’t have to put a stop to your outdoor adventures—even if you’re not a skier. Comfort walking on snow will unlock a new world of hiking potential year-round, from wintery forest rambles to mountaineering objectives to crossing spring and snowfields on high peaks. Successful snow travel hinges on your ability to understand the terrain and move efficiently across it. Learn how to do so safely with these strategies from Colorado Mountain School guide Ian Fowler .

Before ascending a snow-covered slope, assess the risk factors. Is an avalanche possible?  Has sun turned the snow into slush, or is it frozen solid with an icy crust? Travel is easiest on firm, but not rock-hard, snow. In winter, wait for the sun to soften icy spots. In spring, start early before slopes turn to slush. “Nothing drains efficiency like soft, punchy snow,” Fowler says. If you’re confident that it’s safe to continue climbing, choose from the following techniques based on the incline and snow quality.

The Duck Walk

On low-angle to moderate slopes that feel slippery to walk up normally, splay your feet outward so that your heels are closer together than your toes. This maximize surface contact between your boot soles and the snow. Take wide steps and kick into the slope with the inside edge of your foot for better purchase.

The American Step

When the slope gets too steep for flat-footed travel to feel secure, use this technique to keep going straight up: Face uphill, splay one foot outward (like the duck walk) and kick in with the other toe. Alternate sides when one leg tires.

For booting up short steeps in soft snow , kick twice, perpendicular to the slope, to create a platform for your foot. Straighten your rear leg after each step to lengthen contracted muscles and “rest” your weight on your bones.

The French Technique

On steep, hard snow when you are wearing crampons (see below), save energy—and your calf muscles—with the French step. Make long switchbacks and use a crossover step to avoid wearing out your uphill leg. Point both feet slightly downhill to ensure maximum surface contact between your crampon spikes and the snow. Bring your back foot around, planting it uphill and in front of your leading foot. Use an ice axe for balance.

Downward momentum gives falls more consequence, so always stay alert when descending. Before you head down, check for loose straps, clothing, and laces that could cause you to trip. Before heading out, brush up on self-arrest techniques so you can stop yourself in the event of a fall.

Plunge Step

For direct descents in soft snow, face away from the slope. Ram your heel into the snow and point your toes to the sky to keep from slipping.

In firm snow, splay your feet duck walk-style and stomp. “Keep a flex in your knees and your nose over your toes,” Fowler says. Switchback on steeps, and face the slope if you feel insecure.

While your regular hiking shoes or mountaineering might be grippy enough for short snowfield crossings or moderate climbs, hard snow, icy patches, and steep slopes might require additional traction. There are many options out there; here’s how to choose the best for you.

Ice cleats or devices like Yaktrax are best for snowy trails or flats, especially when running or moving quickly. Chain-style traction typically lacks the bite required for icy hills, so get something more substantial for true alpine missions.

Microspikes

These work well for hikers exploring icy terrain or gentle slopes with safe fall zones. They can provide a false sense of security and aren’t meant for steep, firm terrain, so be especially cautious when wearing them.

For hard snow, steep slopes, and no-fall zones, you need high-level traction. Wear them with mountaineering boots and use an ice axe for additional protection and balance.

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Traveling Over Snow: Tips on Safe Snow Travel

Snow can be both boon and bane for outdoor travelers. When nice and firm, it can be a pleasure to scuff along, above all the terra firma messiness of brush, gravel, or deadfall. When soft and powdery, it invites long cross-country ski or snowshoe outings.

But then there’s the flipside: the half-melted slush absolutely exhausting to traverse for long distances, the rock-hard, ice-glazed slopes, the deep, brittle-crusted drifts you maddeningly posthole your way through. Not to mention, of course, all the outright hazards of the snowscape: crevasses, cornices, avalanches, weakly frozen-over bodies of water, etc.

Here we’ve rounded up a general assortment of snow travel tips: advice on everything from basic gear to rewarding route-finding. We hope you'll find something useful for your next adventure out in the white stuff!

Snow Hiking Gear List

Hiking in winter or snowy country any time of year means—no surprise—layering. You obviously need to keep warm, but you’re also going to be working up a mean sweat through the basic exertion of traveling across the snow. Insulate yourself while managing moisture by packing snow hiking essentials: a base layer, midlayer, and outerwear, including an upper and lower shell that can stand up to inclement weather.

Regarding snow hiking pants, you’ll want some layers to play around with: a full-leg base layer (such as long-underwear bottoms), a pair of softshell pants, and shell pants, which might include fleece-lined or otherwise insulated material. What you wear depends on the conditions and your body’s perspiration production. Peel down layers when trekking to help lessen sweat, and layer up when stopping for a break to maintain body heat, which helps keep muscles from stiffing in the cold air.

Waterproof and insulated winter or mountaineering boots, either leather or plastic, are best for snow travel. If you’re going to wear snowshoes or crampons during your trek, you’ll obviously want to ensure your boots properly fit their bindings.

Invest in a pair of gaiters, the full-length kind being best for serious winter hikers. Gaiters provide a layer of insulation for those shins and calves of yours that will be (short of your feet, of course) the most snow-exposed part of your body. They also prevent snow from getting into your boots and cushion against the crust, logs, rocks, and other potentially painful obstructions.

Use ski poles whether you’re cross-country skiing or not: for balance, testing snow conditions, and maybe even erecting a rough-and-ready shelter. An ice ax serves snow hikers, mountaineers and mountain climbers in both rough terrain and technical climbs. We’ll cover some ice-ax basics later in the article.

Snowshoes and cross-country skis are classic winter travel aids, of course, but you may also consider traction devices for your boots. Snow spikes for hiking (aka microspikes) work best on fairly level terrain; if you’re dealing with gnarlier slopes, you might want to invest in a pair of crampons. Strap-on hinged crampons with horizontal front points lend themselves best for winter hiking and general, non-technical mountaineering.

A snow shovel is a versatile and potentially life-saving tool in the snowy backcountry, serving as a means of testing snowpack stability, building a snow cave or other emergency shelter, and excavating buried avalanche victims.

In a recent blog post we covered the basics of avalanche safety , which we encourage you to read through; depending on where and when you’re going snow-adventuring, you may well want to pack avalanche-specific equipment such as a transceiver and avalanche probe.

Mountaineers bring along wands (store-bought or homemade) for retracing their way back over trackless snowfields or in whiteout conditions, and less technically inclined snow hikers might also consider these route finding aids if they plan on doing a lot of major backcountry trekking.

How to Travel Safely in Snow

As we alluded to at the beginning, snow can make cross-country travel easier by blanketing over obstacles, from jungly shrub thickets to scree slopes. Not insignificantly, it also generally lightens the impact of off-trail hiking: Snow is a Leave-No-Trace-friendly substrate.

If you are traveling by trail, keep in mind that it may be difficult to follow under a snowpack if no one has hiked or snowshoed across the trail recently. Obviously, this is more of a concern for a lesser-used National Forest route, for example, than a well-marked trail such as state park or county recreation area. Maintaining orientation skills like map reading and compass navigation skills (plus a GPS) are mandatory.

Atmospheric conditions affect how snow crystals form and once on the ground the snowpack changes over time, sometimes very dramatically. The myriad of snow and snowpacks often raise a challenge to hikers traversing trails and routes. Here are some general approaches for safely and comfortably traversing the variable and evolving snowscape:

• On sunny and warm days, try to do most of your long-distance snow travel in the morning, when the night’s frozen crust is still intact. By afternoon, the snowpack may be slushing up, turning into a gloppy mess miserable to slog through and ramping up avalanche risk to boot.
• If you do find yourself punching or skittering through slushy snow, seek a more shaded route where the snowpack is likely firmer to improve your hike.
• Beware of the snow holes or moats often edging rocks, stumps, and trees.
• In timbered country, don’t be blasé about fallen logs. Under a deep, firm snowpack, most may not be an issue. But when they’re partly snow-covered, it’s easy to twist an ankle in the cavities along them or on a buried branch or root nub. And be careful of your footing if you’re stepping across such logs, as slightly snow-mounded ones can be slippery indeed.
• In hilly or mountainous terrain, ridges often offer the safest, easiest throughways. But be extremely careful of cornices, for those rims of free-hanging snow off the leeward edges of ridge lines are prone to collapse. Give them a wide berth, and keep a sharp eye out for cracks that may reveal the fracture line; you want to stay on the non-cornice side of this breakaway zone, however, beware it’s often invisible. Bare rock is safe, but don’t assume solid ground connects successive outcrops: They may be jutting out from the main ridge spine and be separated by hazardous, corniced snow alone.

Negotiating Snowy Slopes

Ski poles provide much-needed support when you’re crossing, climbing, or descending a snow-covered hillside. Among steeper, taller mountains, though, you may be thankful for the extra assistance of an ice ax. If you’re sidehilling or angling upslope, place one step at a time and anchor the ax above you when doing so.

If you’re climbing a straight slope uphill, you may be able to use the ax in the same sort of “cane” position if the angle is fairly shallow. On steeper snow surfaces, though, you may want to employ a two-handed grip—the “stake” position—or hold the ax horizontally in front of you and drive the pick into the snow with one hand while pushing the shaft against the slope with the other.

On a descent, you might “plunge-step” with long, heel-driven steps downward, or opt for the much more thrilling (but potentially risky) glissade route.

(Learn more about ice-ax use in The Mountaineers’ classic Mountaineering: The Freedom of the Hills , which illustrates the above techniques.)

Stream Crossings in Snowy Landscapes

In snowy winters, streams may run beneath snow bridges or become almost wholly buried for long stretches. Be wary crossing snow bridges: Test their stability with your ski poles before taking each step. When in doubt, it may be best to ford a clear section of the stream rather than trust a dubious snow arch.

Don’t cross streams or rivers on ice if you can avoid it: the risk is just too steep.

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12 Tips For Staying Safe When Traveling In The Snow

Road trips — and traveling in general — can be stressful even under normal circumstances. When you add frosty weather and winter warnings, the daunting task of navigating through the snow and ice can be downright terrifying. Whether there is a light dusting on the roads or a full-on blizzard, driving in the snow is dangerous even for experienced drivers. But you can lessen the risk of traveling in the snow by preparing and understanding some basic tips on how to make your journey as safe as possible.

The number one tip for staying safe in severe weather would be to not attempt to travel. There are circumstances, however, that may require you to traverse the snow even if you would rather be snug at home under a blanket. And although you might not start a journey in bad weather, it's possible bad weather may meet you out on the open road — so it's best to understand what steps to take to keep yourself (and any passengers) as safe as possible.

Pack an emergency bag

Any time you are planning to travel a significant distance, you should plan for the worst and have some kind of "just in case" pack in your car. As it is more dangerous to drive in bad weather , when your car has more of a chance to skid on the road, you're going to want to make sure you have some emergency supplies in your car.

While you may take every precaution on this list to keep from having an accident, they can be unavoidable — they aren't called accidents for nothing. That's why you should be prepared for the event that you slide or get pushed off the road. Most car owners keep handy items like jumper cables and a car jack in their car for emergencies, but keeping a more extensive emergency pack in your car, especially if you're planning on a long car ride, could be incredibly beneficial.

Keeping simple and affordable items — a glass breaker in your car, for example, in case you need to bust the window in order to exit your car, and something bright to tie onto your antenna to make your car more visible to traffic — are small objects that don't take up a lot of room but that you'll be grateful for if you ever need them. Flares are also a great addition to your car, as they can last pretty much forever, work in the snow, and are universally seen as a sign of distress.

Avoid traveling at night

Traveling in the snow is already going to be one complication that requires all of your attention; you're not going to want to add darkness and loss of visibility to the unmanageable task at hand. Road tripping at night comes with a whole slew of its own dangers, but using headlights in the snow decreases visibility – the lights reflect off the falling snowflakes and the snow already on the ground.

Not only is it more dangerous to travel at night while already navigating the snow because of visibility changes, but it also naturally gets colder at night and may refreeze any snow that has melted, making ice a very real hazard. Even if you could see perfectly, ice on the road is practically invisible and unavoidable.

Not being able to see the road — combined with unpredictable road conditions — is a dangerous mix. And once you add drowsiness that can come with late hours it's pretty much a recipe for disaster. If you can keep your road travel to daylight hours, you will avoid one risk that is likely not worth taking.

Avoid traveling alone

If you can avoid traveling in the snow, absolutely do it. If you can't, try to at least avoid traveling in the snow alone. Traveling solo has plenty of benefits, but traversing a snowy road alone isn't one of them. If you can travel with someone who has more experience than you driving in the snow, it may be best to let them drive as well.

Not only will you be able to share driving time with another person and give each other breaks from the high-demand winter driving, but you will have at least one other person to help if anything were to go wrong with your car or if you get stuck in the snow. Being stranded in the snow alone is scary — it's much less so with company.

The only downside to having another person in the car with you is an added distraction, so it's important that whoever is a passenger in the car is respectful of the attention that goes into driving in the ice and snow. Still, the benefits of traveling with another person rather than traveling solo are so great that it likely outweighs the danger a potential distraction would be.

Share your location

Even if you are able to rope someone else in to take a snowy road trip with you and are not driving alone, it is an incredibly smart move to share your location with your loved ones and keep them informed of your movements. Letting them know when you depart, your ETA, and when you arrive can be vital in maintaining your safety, as someone outside of your traveling group will be able to calculate if something could be wrong.

Bonus points if your traveling partner(s) share their locations as well. If everyone in your traveling party lets the people in their lives know their plans and location, there is more of a chance that someone will notice if your group is not where you should be or if your location has stopped moving for any significant length of time.

There are a number apps and tools you can use to passively update your locations, like Find My Friends and Life360. You can also use Google Maps to quickly share your live location with your contacts. If you don't like the idea of data sharing, a good old fashioned phone call can do the trick, too.

Keep your car maintained

Before starting out on any road trip, you should get your car checked out and make sure it is up to date on any regular maintenance and whether it needs long term things fixed. You should be starting out with all your fluids topped off and all your lights working and cleaned so that you will have as much visibility as possible, both for you seeing the road and so that other cars can see you.

If you already know you are likely to be getting snow during your trip, double check that your tires and brakes are in good condition. If the tread on your tires has worn down significantly, you are going to want to replace them for ultimate safety. You should have fully functioning windshield wipers with good blades as well. These quick and simple checks will set you up for a successful road trip and help keep you as safe as possible in bad weather.

Winterize your car

While you may be caught up unawares in the snow during an ongoing trip, chances are you may be aware that snow has a good possibility for when you are planning on traveling, or you may be going to a destination that is typically snow-covered. If there is a chance you may be doing a good amount of driving in the snow, it's a good idea to winterize your car, and getting snow tires is a great way to do that. Snow tires are specifically made to withstand the harsh environment that winter and freezing temperatures bring with it, whereas all-season tires have significantly less traction in snow and slush.

If you are someone who tends to let your gas tank hover near empty, you should temporarily change this habit while traveling in the snow. Keeping your gas tank from dropping below the half-way mark in snowy conditions can prevent you from running out of gas in less-than-ideal road conditions and can also prevent too much moisture from forming in a less full tank, which can lead to rust. Installing more heavy duty, winter specific windshield wipers can also help keep your windshield clear of ice.

Know how to manage slides

When there is snow or ice on the road, practically everything has the potential to be a hazard. The majority of the time, you can't really see what is ice and what is slush or simply just road, so it's best to treat the entire road as if it is covered in ice. Hitting a patch of ice and your car reacting to it can be managed, but only just slightly managed. Knowing how to control your vehicle when it is nearly uncontrollable could save not only you and the people in your car, but the people you are sharing the road with as well as any pedestrians in the car's path.

The most important thing to remember when your car starts to skid — and it is likely to skid occasionally when driving in snowy conditions — is to remain calm and absolutely not panic. You need to be clear headed, because your first instinct is going to be to either over-correct with the steering wheel or hit your brakes. You're not going to want to do either of these, but instead to kind of let the slide take you and slightly correct when you feel it give a little. Trying to take back control from the slide will send your car into tailspinning chaos.

Do not decrease or increase speed quickly when driving in the snow or ice. You're going to want to use your brakes sparingly – driving in a lower gear can help with this.

Take it slow

Since slides are pretty much a sure thing when driving in snowy conditions, a big part of managing a slippery road is to slow it way down. While you should consider the speed limit of the area you are driving in as a guideline, taking it slower than the marked speed limit is not only smart, but typically vital to your safety. Speed limits are marked at peak road conditions, not the most hazardous ones. In fact, it's a general recommendation that your speed should be around half of the posted limit in snowy conditions.

Taking skids at a lower speed is a lot more manageable than sliding quickly, and when cars are reckless on the road when snow and ice are present they put everyone on the road at risk. Not only is it more likely that you will lose complete control of your vehicle if you are not driving cautiously, but you won't be able to brake during a slide and will possibly increase in speed. Plan to extend your travel time exponentially when driving in winter conditions, because you do not want to be in a rush on snow-covered roads.

Invest in roadside assistance service

It's wise to hope for the best, but plan for the worst. In planning for a car malfunction or getting stuck in snow on the side of the road, it's a smart move to join a roadside assistance subscription like AAA. That way, you shouldn't be stuck long and it will be easier to either get back on the road or get somewhere warm quickly.

While AAA does not have the capability to help snowed-in cars or cars that are not readily accessible to their tow trucks, they likely will be able to tow a car that is broken down on the side of the road or help you get out of a snowy ditch. Even if you end up not needing a tow or assistance, knowing that you have a plan if something were to happen on the road can bring some much appreciated peace of mind in an otherwise stressful traveling situation.

Though you can use most services as soon as payment for the membership is made, check with whichever service you sign up for if there is an established timeline of services. You may need to sign up for membership a few days to a week before your trip to make sure all services would be available to you if something were to happen on your road trip.

Stay away from other cars

Okay, so there are bound to be other cars on the road, even if the recommendation is to not travel in bad weather unless you absolutely have to. While you won't be able to avoid other people on the road entirely, it's best to treat any other vehicles with a certain amount of wariness. As a driver, you likely understand how hard it is to control a vehicle in snow and ice. Slides are near-impossible to control while they are happening and we've already established that they will most likely be happening if snow is on the ground — and not only will they happen to you, but everyone else on the road as well.

With that in mind, it's not a far leap to consider everyone on the road has the same semi-unreliability when operating a huge machine under less than desirable circumstances. A bunch of people sharing space with automobiles they don't have 100% control over is not an ideal situation.

Following distances should be increased when driving in the snow, and you should be looking out for scenarios in which cars in the other lane may skid over into your lane — and watch for potential accidents from cars around you. Also look out for pedestrians and how your car will react to obstructions, because a slide could potentially take you off the road and into pedestrian territory. Parking lots are especially dangerous in this way.

Keep your phone charged

Luckily, we live in an age where communication is easier than it ever has been — but you actually need a functioning phone for it to matter. It's incredibly important to have your phone as fully charged as possible at all times when you are traveling, and it's not just for the scenic pictures and travel selfies. You never know when you may run into a problem on the road and having a phone available to call for help is a valuable resource.

You should definitely have a car charger and keep your phone hooked up to it while you are driving, especially if you are running a high-energy app like navigation. Investing in a portable power bank that is compatible with your charger isn't such a bad idea either, as you will be able to keep your phone charged even if your car dies.

Even if you start out your journey with a full battery and are used to your phone lasting quite a while without getting low in a charge, you'll need to check it sporadically if it's not actively charging. There are quite a few service dead zones throughout the United States, and struggling for service can drain your battery. Using airplane mode can help preserve your battery life, as well as turning on power save mode.

Keep your car stocked for winter driving

If you follow all these safety tips and still somehow end up on the side of the road stuck in thick snow or slippery ice, all hope is not lost. Keeping a small hand shovel and a couple bags of sand when you're planning to do some driving in bad weather is a great idea, especially if you have a car without all wheel drive. When placed around your tires that are stuck in the snow, sand can help your car gain traction and get unstuck.

Having sources of warmth available in case you get stranded is a great idea as well — a couple blankets, a winter outfit with gloves and a hat, and even some hand warmers come to mind. In fact, keeping these stored in your car throughout the winter isn't such a bad idea either. Storing drinking water as well as non-perishable food that can easily be opened can also offer some comfort, as you won't be going thirsty or hungry if stranded for an extended period of time. While not likely, it could happen in particularly bad weather.

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Embrace the Cold at These 12 Affordable Winter Destinations

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THE POWDER BECKONS

In many parts of the country, the grueling days of winter have truly settled in with frigid temperatures and only rare appearances by the sun. But there are many places where winter's arrival actually brings out the best in the destination -- communities that transform into the embodiment of a Normal Rockwell painting or a winter wonderland offering days of snow-filled fun. Think snowmobiling, snowshoeing, and sleigh rides, topped off by a steaming hot cocoa , a warm fireplace, or a bubbling Jacuzzi, and you're getting the picture. Here's a look at 12 places celebrating all things white and frozen that are offering special winter vacation discounts or packages aimed at making a winter getaway even more tempting. Related: 13 Budget-Friendly Destinations for Winter Sun

SNOWSHOE MOUNTAIN RESORT, WEST VIRGINIA

Snowshoe Mountain, with its idyllic mountaintop village, looks as if it jumped straight from the pages of an age-old holiday book. Located about 5,000 feet above sea level, Snowshoe Mountain is typically snow central from December through March. In addition to abundant skiing , activities include snowmobile tours, snow tubing, back-country adventure dining, and horseback riding. Until March 23, the resort is offering the Easy Inn Stay & Ski Package , which includes nightly lodging and skiing for $69 a person.

RUBY'S INN, BRYCE CANYON, UTAH

Few places are more striking or beautiful than Bryce Canyon when it's dusted with a blanket of white. For a unique twist on snow-themed fun, visitors could spend an entire day walking through the ethereal canyons filled with dazzling red rock formations, which stand in stark contrast to the snow this time of year. The famed Ruby's Inn offers ice-skating, sleigh rides, horseback rides, snowshoeing, and more. A Winter Warmer Deal  allows visitors to stay one night and get half off each additional night through March 25.

TAOS SKI VALLEY, NEW MEXICO

About a half-hour outside the renowned artists' community of Taos is the strikingly picturesque retreat of Taos Ski Valley. With a population of just 69 people as of the 2010 census, there's plenty of open space to enjoy the great, snow-covered outdoors. Popular pastimes include tubing, snowmobile tours, snowshoeing, and, of course, skiing. While it's tough to find discount package deals this time of year, given that the place is practically made for winter, Natural Retreats  offers cabins that sleep four to 17 people, with prices starting at $149 a night.

BOYNE MOUNTAIN, MICHIGAN

In addition to all the usual activities -- skiing, snowshoeing, skating, snow tubing -- Boyne Mountain boasts winter zip-lining and the Avalanche Bay Indoor Water Park (in case a break from the outdoors is in order). The Ski & Stay Package starts at $126 per person, per night . While that may not sound like a bargain, kids age 8 and under sleep and ski for free. In addition, kids 9 to 15 receive reduced rates on lodging and lift tickets. The price also includes a complimentary breakfast buffet and admission for snow tubing.

ANGEL FIRE RESORT, NEW MEXICO

With more than 500 acres of slopes, there's plenty of skiing to be done in the Angel Fire area, as well as tubing, sledding, and snowboarding. The community of Angel Fire, where the resort is located, hosts horse-drawn sleigh rides and snowmobile tours. Other outdoor activities include ice fishing and snowshoeing. The Stay & Ski package  at Angel Fire Resort, available until March 19, offers 10 percent off nightly lodging rates and lift-ticket prices. In addition, kids under 6 ski free. Chalets start at about $179 a night.

SILVER MOUNTAIN RESORT, IDAHO

Snowboarding, skiing, snowshoeing, and snow tubing are among the offerings at this 1,600-acre resort set at the foot of two mountains, just outside the historic mining city of Kellogg. Silver Mountain is also home to Idaho's largest indoor water park, which is about the size of a football field. The temperature at Silver Rapids Indoor Waterpark is a balmy 84 degrees, perfect to warm your bones after a day in the snow. Weekend prices for the Ski & Stay package start at about $95 a person , which includes accommodations, lift tickets, and unlimited access to the water park for a family of four. Weekday rates start at $69 per person, per night.

JACKSON HOLE, WYOMING

Jackson Hole is a legendary winter hot spot. Not only is it consistently ranked a top ski destination  in North America, but it has long attracted a who's who of celebrities, thanks to the charming town of Jackson and the stellar beauty of Grand Teton National Park, just 5 miles away. The area is also home to the National Elk Refuge, where winter visitors can enjoy horse-drawn sleigh rides. For all these reasons and more, finding a winter vacation deal here is not easy. But Rendezvous Mountain Rentals, just 4 miles from Jackson Hole Resort, is offering a special on condo rentals -- rent four nights and get the fifth night free. Fully furnished condos that sleep four people start at $149 a night .

GREEK PEAK MOUNTAIN RESORT, NEW YORK

Located in New York's Finger Lakes Region, Greek Peak Mountain Resort is offering a variety of special packages to entice winter travelers. The resort is home to Hope Lake Lodge, which serves as a base for activities such as skiing, snow tubing, and zip-lining at the Outdoor Adventure Center. The Family Fun Package, available January through April, lets families stay two nights at Hope Lake Lodge  and get the third night free. The package includes four water-park passes, four snow-tube passes, and tokens for the arcade. A Ski & Stay package starts at $99 per person per night.

ESTES PARK, COLORADO

Estes Park in northern Colorado serves as a picturesque base for exploring Rocky Mountain National Park. On top of skiing and sledding, popular activities include snowshoeing on pristine trails, wildlife viewing (spotting elk and bear is not unusual), and riding the Estes Park Aerial Tramway to the summit of Prospect Mountain. For the particularly adventurous, there's ice climbing. Among the winter deals offered here is $20 off the nightly accommodation rate at River Stone Resort  when staying at least two nights. Another package allows four people to stay in a two-bedroom, two-bathroom condo for $169 a night.

LAKE GEORGE, NEW YORK

Trendy outdoor ice bars, winter carnivals (throughout February), and polar plunges are just some of the options in Lake George this time of year. This spectacular winter wonderland also features snow tubing, ice-skating, ice fishing, and guided snowmobile tours. Among the lodging deals available is the Winter Call Off special from The Lodges at Cresthaven , which allows four nights (Sunday through Thursday or Monday through Friday) at a discounted rate. The cost is $400 for two people, $500 for four, and $700 for six.

STEAMBOAT SPRINGS, COLORADO

The mountain community of Steamboat Springs is known as Ski Town USA for good reason -- it's a world-renowned ski destination. For those seeking an extended winter retreat, a Ski Town USA Package  includes 30 percent off lodging and lift tickets when staying eight nights. In addition, kids ski and rent free. Keeping busy for eight days in this snowy destination is not likely to be a challenge, even for the ski-averse. Options include snowboarding, a winter carnival, dog sledding, ice and fly fishing, ice climbing, sleigh rides, snowmobiling, and helicopter tours.

PARK CITY, UTAH

This former silver-mining boomtown is one of the world's top winter vacation destinations. It claims to be the largest resort in the United States, with a combined ski and snowboarding area of about 9,326 acres. Other activities include dog sledding, skating, snowshoeing, and tubing. Park City's village is home to more than 100 bars and restaurants, art galleries, and museums. Finding a deal in such a trendy and popular place is no easy feat, but the Spring Stay & Savor package  offers savings of up to 40 percent on lodging Feb. 26 to April 16. Chateau Apres , just 150 yards from the main Park City Mountain Resort lifts, is offering a March Spring Special rate of $120 a night March 22 to March 31.

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A severe arctic storm could threaten holiday travel across the U.S.

Emily Olson

David Schaper

Ivy Winfrey

An airline passenger walks between ride share vehicles after arriving at Chicago's Midway Airport just days before a major winter storm Tuesday, Dec. 20, in Chicago. Charles Rex Arbogast/AP hide caption

An airline passenger walks between ride share vehicles after arriving at Chicago's Midway Airport just days before a major winter storm Tuesday, Dec. 20, in Chicago.

Millions of Americans may want to reconsider their holiday travel plans, as bitter cold, biting wind and heavy snow are expected across the U.S. this week, imposing treacherous conditions just days before Christmas.

A bulletin from the National Weather Service (NWS) says a "strong arctic high pressure system," was sweeping down from Canada on Tuesday and appears poised to march towards the Great Plains, the Midwest and onto the Southeast on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday, bringing life-threatening blizzard conditions and cold weather systems across 17 states.

The first day of winter arrives this week, marked by the solstice

Heavy snowfall and limited visibility caused Vancouver International Airport to temporarily shut down Tuesday, stranding scores of passengers. That could be a sign of things to come for holiday travelers in the U.S., as the frigid weather system moves across the country this week.

A man clears a driveway after a snow storm passed through northern Minnesota last week. Forecasters say another big storm is expected to hit the region this week. Holden Law/AP hide caption

A man clears a driveway after a snow storm passed through northern Minnesota last week. Forecasters say another big storm is expected to hit the region this week.

At least 250 flights into and out of the Seattle-Tacoma airport were cancelled Tuesday as heavy snow fell there, according to the tracking site Flight Aware. The Cascade Mountains in Washington state were seeing the heaviest snowfall on Tuesday, but nearby lowlands in Idaho, Montana and Wyoming could see a foot of snow, according to the NWS. The region could see another blast of snow and ice on Thursday.

The incoming arctic front will then cross over the northern Rockies, Great Basin and Northern Plains regions, sending temperatures plummeting as low as minus 30 degrees, with winds gusting at up to 60 mph.

Snow is likely to move into parts of Nebraska, Kansas, the Dakotas, Minnesota, Iowa and Wisconsin on Wednesday. By Thursday, blizzard conditions could hit the Upper Midwest and Great Lakes regions, including Chicago, potentially causing significant flight delays and cancellation at O'Hare International Airport, one of the nation's biggest airline hubs. The major travel hub cities of Denver, Salt Lake City and Minneapolis are expected to be impacted, too.

For the eastern U.S., heavy rain on Tuesday and Wednesday could result in snow or sleet in the Appalachian states on Thursday.

The National Weather Service temperature map for Tuesday. NWS hide caption

By Friday, temperatures could hit the season's lowest in what is only the first week of winter. Even northern Florida cities like Jacksonville and Tallahassee could see a chill as low as 20 F on Christmas Eve.

Most major airlines, including United, American, Delta, JetBlue and Southwest, are offering to waive change fees and fare differences for those wanting to change flights so they can travel before or after the storm, within small rebooking windows.

"That allows travelers who have tickets now and throughout the holiday week to take a look and reconsider," says Kathleen Bangs, spokesperson of the tracking site FlightAware.com. "Reconsider what day you want to go on, maybe reconsider the route if you have a connecting city, and reconsider possibly just changing that ticket to later on in the week or even banking that ticket for later use."

Her advice to all travelers this time of year:

" You really need to have a backup plan" Bangs says. "And that could mean anything from a secondary ticket on a different airline that leaves later in the day or perhaps the next morning. It means a reroute through another city where perhaps you get within a couple hundred miles of your destination and then you rent a car or you take a train."

Bangs says that in this weather there's a chance any flight could be canceled at any time, and it may be difficult to get a hold of a representative from an airline.

AAA says of the 113 million Americans traveling this holiday season, more than 90% of them will be driving. And with forecasts calling for blowing and drifting snow, as well as whiteout conditions in some parts, they should proceed with extreme caution, forecasters say.

"Low visibility will create even more dangerous travel conditions on top of snow covered roadways," the NWS says. "Additionally, the strong winds could lead to potential power outages from the Midwest to the Northeast."

"It is imperative that travelers check the latest forecast before venturing out."

Buffalo Bills fans braved chilly temperatures to sit in snow-covered seats during an NFL game in Orchard Park, N.Y., on Saturday. Adrian Kraus/AP hide caption

Buffalo Bills fans braved chilly temperatures to sit in snow-covered seats during an NFL game in Orchard Park, N.Y., on Saturday.

An outage that left 180,000 without power across New England over the weekend was resolved by Monday, but the Associated Press reported that attempts to bring extra utility workers into the state ahead of this week's storm were stymied by slick roads.

Heavy snow has left thousands without power in New England and New York

Police across New England also said they responded to hundreds of crashes and stranded vehicles, according to local media reports.

Frostbite is another risk for those trying to brave the cold, the NWS says. Subzero temperatures in some parts of the U.S. this week could lead to frostbite on exposed skin in as little as 10 minutes.

Those venturing outside should dress in layers, cover their skin and change into dry clothing as soon as possible. But, experts say, the best prevention by far is simply to stay indoors.

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Winter Hiking Essential Gear List

By AMC Staff ,

Packing the right gear is essential for having a safe and enjoyable winter hike.

Hiking in the winter demands more. More preparedness and more planning. More outdoor experience and ability, and—perhaps most easily overlooked—more time. The cold months require better decision-making and a more cautious mindset. The same trail you hiked in summer six months ago is a different world now. Just as a wind chill intensifies the cold, winter has a way of magnifying mistakes.

Knowing what you’re getting into, checking the weather, making a friend aware of your plans, wearing and carrying the appropriate gear for the time of year and terrain: these are the basics of hiking any time of year. But they’re never more important than in winter.

If you are new to winter hiking and don’t know how to start, consider venturing into the backcountry with an AMC Wilderness Guide or participating in a local hike led by an AMC Chapter . Using guidebooks to find hikes in your area or improve your outdoor skills can also be helpful.

The following gear list is intended as a resource for winter day hike preparation. Not every person will need to bring every item. When you head into the backcountry, you are responsible for assessing the terrain, current conditions, and what items you should have in your pack to survive if you encounter a mishap or sustain an injury. If you are staying at the AMC Highland Center in New Hampshire, our staff can help equip you for a day hike using gear from our L.L.Bean Gear Room .

Snowshoers enjoy the trails around AMC’s Gorman Chairback Lodge and Cabins in the Maine Woods.

One of the best ways to stay safe on a backcountry winter outing is to keep your feet warm and dry. Strong, dry feet are vital not only to keep moving on a backcountry hike or ski, but to rescue yourself should an emergency arise.

Boots: Waterproof and insulated to a temperature rating of 0 degrees for lower-elevation backcountry hiking or snowshoeing. For more advanced mountaineering at higher elevations, pick boots that are insulated to temperature rating of 20 to 40 degrees below zero. If you are hiking in icy conditions in higher elevation areas, your boots may need to be compatible with crampons —whose long spikes give winter hikers significantly more traction and stability.

Hiking socks : Made from wool or synthetic material. These fabrics will keep your feet warm even if they get wet. Bringing an extra pair is recommended.

Gaiters: A waterproof garment that protects against rain and snow. It is worn over your hiking boot and stretches up your lower pant leg to knee height.

Snowshoes : Footwear for walking on snow.  You should bring snowshoes that are designed for flat to rolling terrain. Be sure to make adjustments and test them out at home before using them on a hike. If you are planning to hike in higher elevation areas, you’ll need snowshoes that are designed for steep terrain. (Read our snowshoeing guide for beginners .)

Microspikes: Chains and small spikes that are worn over your hiking boots for additional traction on relatively flat to moderately steep terrain. Make sure that your spikes fit over your hiking boots before hitting the trail.

Dressing for winter is all about layering. You may not wear every clothing item in your pack at a given time, but having extra layers to change into is essential if you get wet or when temperatures drop. Make sure you don’t wear any clothes made out of cotton. This fabric absorbs moisture easily and, when wet, will rapidly draw warmth away from your body. A lack of proper insulation can cause disorientation, hypothermia or, in extreme cases, death.

Base layer: Long- or short-sleeve shirt made out of synthetic/wicking material.

Mid-layer : Long- or short-sleeve shirt made out of wool or wool/synthetic blended material. If the weather is going to be cold, it’s a good idea to bring an extra mid-layer with you.

Outer-layer : Lightweight fleece.

Insulating layer : Down or fiber parka . If possible, having a parka with a hood is ideal because it can be used to insulate your head and neck as well.

Shell: Windproof/waterproof breathable layer that is large enough to fit over multiple layers you may already be wearing.

Well-outfitted AMC Family Adventure participants enjoy snowshoeing in New Hampshire’s White Mountain National Forest.

Bottom layers, like top layers, should be made out of non-cotton material. As always, pack extra layers for your hike in the event that things don’t go to plan, such as experiencing an unexpected cold front.

Base layer: Leggings or long underwear made from wool or synthetic material. Depending on the temperature and weather conditions, you can choose to either begin the hike by wearing or packing this layer.

Mid-layer: Leggings or pants made from light-weight fleece or warm synthetic material.

Shell: Pants that are windproof/waterproof and breathable. Having a shell with a full side zipper is highly recommended.

Combine a hat with a neck gaiter for optimal warmth.

Head and Hands

As with the other layers, avoid clothing that is made out of cotton or other non-insulating materials, such as leather.

Hat: Completely covers your head and ears and is made out of fleece or wool. Bringing an extra hat is recommended.

Neck Gaiter : Worn around the neck for warmth and made from synthetic or fleece. This is also known as a neck warmer or buff.

Gloves: Made from fleece, wool, or synthetic material, not leather. Bringing an extra pair of gloves is recommended.

Mittens : Worn over your gloves as an external wind/waterproof layer for your hands. Bringing an extra pair of mittens is recommended.

Balaclava and/or face mask : Worn over your head and/or face and made from synthetic material or fleece.

Sunglasses: Protects your eyes from harmful UV rays that reflect off of snow and ice in the winter.

Avalanche training participants at AMC’s Joe Dodge Lodge check their avalanche beacons.

Above Treeline Gear

Additional items may be required for extreme conditions, such as extended above-treeline travel or travel in avalanche terrain. Some of this equipment requires specialized instruction and knowledge, practice, and an ability to take yourself and/or your group into harsh, often unforgiving conditions. Without the proper training, certain items, such as an ice axe or avalanche beacon, are useless if you don’t know how to use them. If you are interested in learning more, consider attending one of the workshops or courses offered by AMC and its local Chapters .

Insulating layer : “Puffy pants” made from down or fiber parka.

Crampons: Traction devices used to travel on snow and ice in steeper terrain. The number of points, or spikes, on the bottom of crampons generally increase when needed for more technical terrain. For example, most snow walking and general mountaineering crampons will have 8 to ten points, whereas crampons used for ice climbing will have 14 points or more. Make sure to fit your crampons to your boots before going on a hike.

Avalanche beacon: An electric device worn on the body that both emits and receives radio signals. If someone is buried in an avalanche and their beacon is turned to the receive setting, other members of their party can use their own beacons to locate the victim under the snow. Taking an avalanche safety course is highly recommended if you plan to recreate in areas with avalanche risks.

Extensive first aid kit : A medical kit that treats minor injuries, such as blisters or cuts, as well as more serious ones, like a broken bone. We highly recommend taking a Wilderness First Aid Course so that you are properly prepared to deal with injuries in the backcountry.

Tinted Goggles: Ski goggles or glacier glasses that will help protect your eyes from sunlight reflecting off ice and snow. Overexposure to UV rays in winter can cause a painful conditions called snow blindness .

Ice axe: A 65 to 75 cm long mountaineering axe with a strap. Shorter technical ice climbing axes usually do not work as well if you are trying to self arrest, which is stopping yourself from sliding down an icy/snowy incline. Taking a mountaineering or outdoor skills course to learn the proper technique for self arresting is highly recommended.

Fueling your body with proper nutrition is crucial on winter adventures, when you’ll burn more calories than you would in other seasons.

Food and Water

When hiking in cold weather, your body requires much more fuel to keep moving and stay warm. For a typical winter day hike, the energy expended will be 2,000 to 3,000 more calories over what you normally eat. Hiking in these conditions is not the time to diet. Make sure you are eating and drinking water frequently in order to avoid dehydration and depleted energy levels.

Water: At least 2 liters. You can prevent the liquid from freezing by insulating your waters bottles with a bottle holder or an old wool sock. We do not recommend hiking with water bladders because they often freeze.

Hot drink : Hot chocolate, tea, or hot water in a thermos or other insulated container. Having access to a hot, sugary drink can help you warm up if you begin to feel chilled.

Food: High-calorie energy food that will not freeze. Some examples include, dried fruit, candy, bagels, bread, preserved meats or cheese, fruitcake, small sandwiches, nuts, and cookies. Remember that you will need more food and snacks than you would for a hike during the summer.

Read more about nutrition and hydration for a winter hike .

Trekking poles can help provide extra stability and reduce knee impact during winter hikes.

Additional Gear

Backpack : Medium to large size with an adjustable waist belt. You typically carry more gear in the winter that is bulkier and heavier. Make sure your pack can accommodate everything that you need.

Pack cover/liner : External cover to protect your backpack from snow and rain. You can use a plastic compactor bag if your backpack doesn’t come with a cover.

Trekking poles : Poles with handles that provide extra stability and reduced force on your knees while hiking. We recommend using flick-lock style poles with snow bales on the bottom.

Whistle: Helps others locate you in an emergency. A whistle is a more effective way to call for help in the backcountry than your voice. Blow three loud, short blasts to make a distress call.

Headlamp : Light source for hiking on the trail, reading your map, or setting up camp. Make sure to check the batteries before you use a headlamp on a hike and pack a spare set of batteries.

Map/Compass : Navigation tools for tracking your location and the progress of your hike. While GPS units can be useful, you should always carry a map of the area you will be hiking or recreating in and a compass. Remember to leave a copy and itinerary of your route at home or with a friend. Don’t know how to use a map and compass? Check out one of AMC’s outdoor skills courses .

Emergency blanket or bivy: Shelters that will provide protection against the elements in an emergency situation.

Lighter: Fire starter that can help provide warmth or signal for help.

Knife: All-purpose tool for gear repairs, cutting cloth to make bandages, removing splinters, etc.

Lip balm: Prevents your lips for drying out and cracking, which can be painful.

Sunscreen: Protects your skin from UV Rays that reflect off of snow and ice. Bring sunscreen that is at least 20+ SPF.

Hand warmers: Small packets that produce heat and are put inside gloves to warm your hands.

Foam pad: Insulates from the cold of the ground so that you don’t lose body heat when sitting or lying down on the pad. This is great for when you want to take a break during your hike and it will protect you if you are forced to shelter in place.

Dry clothes: Change into these when you have finished your hike and get back to your car. It’s a nice treat for the ride home.

This list was adapted from the AMC Worcester Chapter’s Winter Hiking Gear List and portions of AMC Essential Guide to Winter Recreation .

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5 Expert Tips for Driving in Snow That Will Keep You Safe on Winter Road Trips

Be prepared for anything and everything.

The classic road trip is a touchstone of American travel culture. But do you know what to do if you get hit by wintry weather along the way?

Travelers should keep safety in mind whenever they get behind the wheel, but driving in the winter requires particular care. Road conditions can be more dangerous in the snow, and unprepared drivers run the risk of getting stymied by icy streets and freezing temperatures. To help you drive your best this winter, we've rounded up advice from auto experts across the world — and their top tip is simply to take things slow.

"The most important thing to remember is to drive slowly and steadily," Anthony King, CEO of Transport Executive , shared with Travel + Leisure via email. Driving too fast on snow or ice, he added, can lead to skidding — a scary experience, but one you can avoid or control with careful driving. "In the event of a skid, stay calm and avoid slamming on the brakes, as this may cause you to lose control of your vehicle. The ideal method is to take it easy on the pedal and shift slightly into the skid before slowly accelerating."

Here are five more tips for driving in snow that will help keep you safe on any winter road trip .

Warm up your vehicle before driving.

Thomas Brown, a driving instructor from Fairbanks, Alaska, with 30 years of experience, shared a piece of advice both you and your car will appreciate: if you're in a cold environment, let your vehicle warm up before leaving the driveway.

"Wait 30 seconds to a minute after the engine starts before driving," he explained. Not only will this give you some time to blast the heater and warm up, but it will also allow your engine to perform at its best. The optimal engine speed, Brown said, is between 2,000 and 3,500 RPM, and putting your car into immediate motion when it's cold can force the engine out of that range — especially if you plan on driving fast. "Wait until the engine temperature rises to a normal operating temperature, then raise the speed."

Install skid chains or snow tires .

If you're traveling to a snowy area, Brown also suggested installing skid chains or a set of snow tires.

"Both of these items can enhance the grip of the vehicle to avoid skidding, but the skid resistance of snow tires is much better than the chain," Brown said. "If you live in an area that has more than three months of snowfall a year, I recommend getting a new set of snow tires for your vehicle. If the snowfall doesn't last long, installing a set of skid chains is adequate." If you don't feel like this is a task you can do alone, visit your local auto shop for a little help.

Perform some basic vehicle maintenance.

According to Ferenc Elekes, founder and editor of the vehicle-travel advice forum Overlandsite , it's crucial to take care of your car so it can take care of you when driving in snow.

"First and foremost, maintenance is very important," Elekes said. "Your car must be ready for the challenges winter conditions throw at it." Winter road trippers should be sure to check all the basic systems of their car before heading out, he said, including the tires, brakes, battery, radiator, wiper blades and fluid, lights, defrost and heater, and other fluids. Running diagnostics is smart too. "Having your car in tip-top shape will not only increase your safety, but it will also give you peace of mind, which will make driving in winter more relaxed."

Elekes also added that it's a good idea to spend a little more on some upgrades if you can. "Changing the oil, upgrading tires, using different fluids, adding interior protection, and washing and waxing your car add extra protection for you and your vehicle, functionally and aesthetically."

Pack for emergencies.

As Murphy's Law states, "Anything that can go wrong will go wrong." You can prepare for this by considering potential issues and packing your car accordingly.

"For your safety, it's advisable to pack some emergency essentials," Elekes said. Also, choose specific items to pack for a winter road trip . "Depending on the length and style of your trip, essentials can range from the bare minimum, like a hazard triangle, ice scrapers, and tire chains, to being prepared for anything with tow straps, an extra battery, a shovel , tools for small repairs, and ice melt and traction materials."

It's also smart to have basic survival items on hand, such as food, water, and blankets, in case you get stuck by the roadside changing a tire or waiting on a tow.

Do your homework on the route.

Odds are, when planning a road trip , you'll likely research your destination, including things like accommodations, attractions to see, and places to eat. But Kyle Kroeger, founder of ViaTravelers , recommends taking things one step further by looking up snow conditions as well.

"Do research on the area you're visiting and speak to the locals for advice on places to avoid and places you can visit most safely," Kroeger said. Furthermore, it can be a good idea to research gas stations along your route and the distances between them. "Make sure you never run out of gas," Kroeger warned. "If you're at all concerned about running out, turn back immediately."

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Back to Winter Safety Articles

The weather has a habit of changing pretty quickly, especially during the winter season. Powerful winter storms driven by jet streams that often exceed 200 mph can bring copious amounts of snow and ice, along with blowing snow and whiteout conditions. In some cases the temperature can drop over 50 degrees in a matter of hours. If travelers don't check the weather forecast and plan accordingly, these fast-changing conditions can be a matter of life or death when we are on the road.

Being aware of the weather conditions when traveling is crucial to ensuring a safe journey. According to the Department of Transportation, each year 24 percent of weather-related vehicle crashes occur on snowy, slushy, or icy pavement and 15 percent happen during snowfall or sleet. Over 1,300 people are killed and more than 116,800 people are injured in vehicle crashes on snowy, slushy, or icy pavement annually.

What’s more, fast-changing weather conditions can be particularly dangerous. Just last year alone, white out conditions created by quickly developing snow squalls caused over 140 accidents and 3 fatalities in Indiana, Pennsylvania and New Hampshire.

Of course, there are several steps you can take to avoid being caught unaware on the road in a hazardous winter event.

• Utilize your local National Weather Service office: Fast-changing weather conditions happen just as described – fast! Just because it’s sunny and clear when you depart doesn’t mean it will stay that way for the duration of your trip. Make sure to check the hourly conditions at your local NWS office.
• Check the road conditions along your route: Weather conditions often change quickly when you travel through locations with varying landscapes. Be sure to check the current road conditions and updated alerts or advisories for the roads and highways you will be traveling on.  This site contains a comprehensive list of current road conditions listed by state.
• Stay mobile in your mobile: Having access to the most up-to-date weather warnings and advisory information is now easier than ever. Wherever you are, you can get the local weather forecast from the National Weather Service with one click on your home screen by visiting mobile.weather.gov and bookmark it to your phone. Make sure that you have the latest weather news and information on the go so you can stay on top of fast-changing winter weather conditions.
• Winterize your vehicle: No one likes encountering car problems at any point during the year. But fast-changing and harsh winter conditions can be particularly brutal on your vehicle. Take a look at this checklist provided by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration for some tips on preparing your car for the winter.
• Have a winter weather emergency kit: Like your mother always said, “It’s better to be safe than sorry”. Even with full preparation, surprises are bound to happen with weather conditions. Make sure Mother Nature doesn’t catch you off guard by having some basic winter weather tools packed in your car at all times. Check out some of the items you should consider bringing along with this list provided by ready.gov.

US Dept of Commerce National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration National Weather Service Weather-Ready Nation 1325 East West Highway Silver Spring, MD 20910 Comments? Questions? Please Contact Us.

Try this pro trick for an affordable and stress-free summer vacation

• Travelers are facing high prices and crowds this summer.
• The best way to get around the high prices and crowds: Be flexible.
• There are ways to become flexible during the busiest travel season of the year, from planning your trip to the tools that get you there.

Life is full of compromises, and that will never be more true than when you're traveling this summer.

Flights will be packed. Just before Memorial Day, the Transportation Security Administration set a new record for most air travelers screened. It checked nearly 3 million passengers on May 24, surpassing the previous record set last Thanksgiving. U.S. airlines are projecting a record summer . They expect to fly 271 million passengers in June, July and August, up 6% from last summer.

Roads will be jammed. GasBuddy’s latest summer travel survey predicts 76% of Americans plan to take a road trip sometime between Memorial Day and Labor Day – up 18% from last summer.

Check out   Elliott Confidential , the newsletter the travel industry doesn't want you to read. Each issue is filled with breaking news, deep insights, and exclusive strategies for becoming a better traveler. But don't tell anyone!

Hotels are full, too. Average hotel occupancy will rise to 63.4%, the highest level since 2019, according to the consulting firm HVS .

Learn more: Best travel insurance

There's only one way to get around the high prices and crowds: Be flexible.

"With peak season prices, crowds, flight delays and more, your itinerary should be in pencil − not pen," said Bill Smith, CEO of Landing , a company that offers flexible rentals. "Being flexible can help to minimize your travel spend while maximizing your adventure this summer."

There are ways to become flexible during the busiest travel season of the year, from planning your trip to the tools that get you there. Being a more flexible traveler also means thinking about travel a little differently − bending but not breaking.

Should you repeat your vacation? Let's settle this once and for all.

Junk fees: Travelers are drowning in junk fees during the summer of surcharges

Ways to become more flexible this summer

So, how do you become more flexible? Here are a few examples:

• Fly to another city. Sometimes, the place you're trying to visit is too popular − and expensive. That's what happened to Phil Strazzulla when he tried to visit Milan last summer. Airline ticket prices were more than $1,000. But he could fly to nearby Zurich for less. So he did. "Not only did this save us more than $300 for each ticket, but the drive over the mountains was spectacular," said Strazzulla, who runs a software review company. "Travel flexibility can result in cost savings − and a unique experience."
• Go off the beaten path. Being truly flexible can mean getting outside your comfort zone. "Instead of Rome, Italy, go to the Puglia region," said Lynna Goldsby, a cruise planner with Travel With Lynna. "Instead of London, try Normandy or Bath." Trying these alternate destinations can still satisfy your travel itch but also reduce your expenses for lodging, restaurants, tours and transfers, she said.
• Take a detour. Airfares are often less expensive if you fly out of the way through an airline's hub. Don't waste that opportunity, said Linda Robert, a travel coach with Back in the Groove Again. Airlines such as Icelandair, Qatar Airways and Copa have stopover programs that allow you to enjoy a day or two at their hubs before continuing to your vacation destination, often at no extra cost. "This strategy enriches your travel experience and offers a cost-effective way to see more places," she said. 

Here are a few useful flexibility tools

There are a few new ways to be flexible. 

For example, Landing, which is a favorite of digital nomads and location-independent workers, rolled out a new tool this week. Its 12-month Flex Stay program offers renters the opportunity to save up to 30% on monthly rates by committing to living with Landing for a year, which has locations in more than 375 cities.

"This new offering gives members the freedom to roam throughout our nationwide network of fully furnished apartments as much − or as little − as they’d like throughout the year," Smith said.

Another newish feature is Airbnb's flexible dates search , which lets you select a period of time rather than a specific date, to see more options. Airbnb introduced the feature during the pandemic, and it can help you save as much as 20% on vacation rental accommodations.

One of my all-time favorite tools is available on almost every self-respecting online travel site. It's the ability to search for airfares or hotel rates based on a more flexible schedule. Google Flights and Kayak are great at showing you more flexible options. Pro tip: Don't limit your flexibility to dates; select a region you want to visit, which may include an alternate airport.

Will new airline consumer protection rules help you when you fly this summer?

Tipping is 'not an entitlement': Should travelers stop tipping for everything?

You can also be flexible when it comes to the rate you pay, said Virginia Tech hospitality and tourism professor Mahmood Khan. Hotels cut their rates by about 20% if you pay upfront. (But you have to be sure you're going because those lower rates are usually nonrefundable.)

"At times, selecting a hotel away from busy destinations, yet comfortable for commuting, helps in finding an economical deal," he said.

But how do you put it all together this summer, including the flexible itinerary and the tools? Funny you should ask.

What are some more ways to increase your travel flexibility?

There are also new strategies to increase your travel flexibility, which can help you save money and a big headache when you're on the road. 

"A critical skill is knowing how and when to put white space into your itinerary," said Stephanie Chastain, owner of Infinite Ireland Travel, a boutique travel consultancy. "A too-rigid schedule leaves travelers vulnerable to travel hiccups that disrupt well-intended plans."

What is white space? It's literally that − a blank page on your itinerary. An empty afternoon with free time. A leisurely breakfast instead of getting up at the crack of dawn for an all-day tour. It's a rest day every two or three days, to prevent yourself from vacation burnout and to give your schedule some wiggle room.

Even the experts keep relearning the lesson of flexibility. For example, I had to fly from Anguilla to Miami at the last minute recently, and the flights were crazy expensive − around $800 for a one-way ticket. Just as I got ready to book, I realized that Anguilla is a short ferry ride from St. Martin, which has more flights. 

Total savings: $200. 

Being flexible means thinking about travel differently from everyone else. It's the belief that there are many ways to get to your destination and that if you don't get there on the exact day your vacation starts, it's not the end of the world. Travel companies love sticking it to you when you absolutely must be in one place at a fixed time. Be a contrarian. But don't go too far.

Bend so you don't break

Some of the best travel advice for people who want to be flexible comes from veteran travel adviser Susan Sherren, who runs Couture Trips , a travel agency. She told me lowering your expectations is one of the best ways to stay flexible.

"Life isn't perfect," she said. "Your trip will likely involve unforeseen and unpredictable events."

One more thing: Being too rigid is a recipe for a terrible trip. I've made that mistake before, and believe me, it's no fun.

You don't want to take it too far. By all means, schedule your flight on a weekday to avoid high fares. Try booking your flight by using one of the flexible fare features on Google Flights or Kayak, or check out Landing's new flex program. 

But if you make too many compromises, it won't be much of a vacation. You'll end up staying in a motel in the suburbs, far away from all the attractions, and missing all the fun. Be flexible, but be smart. 

Bend − but don't break.

Christopher Elliott  is an author, consumer advocate, and journalist. He founded  Elliott Advocacy , a nonprofit organization that helps solve consumer problems. He publishes  Elliott Confidential , a travel newsletter, and the  Elliott Report , a news site about customer service. If you need help with a consumer problem, you can  reach him here  or email him at  [email protected] .

The Key Points at the top of this article were created with the assistance of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and reviewed by a journalist before publication. No other parts of the article were generated using AI. Learn more .

Trade snow for sunshine: Delta’s new flights from MSP to Aruba, St. Maarten and more

This winter, Delta is serving up new travel options from Minneapolis-Saint Paul to the tropical paradises of Aruba and St. Maarten. The airline is also enhancing its service from MSP to Grand Cayman and San Juan, Puerto Rico, offering customers more opportunities to escape the cold and enjoy a tropical getaway.    "As the leading carrier from MSP to Latin America and the Caribbean, we're looking forward to increasing our seats to these popular destinations, offering unmatched convenience and expanded choices for our customers," said Joe Esposito, Delta’s Senior Vice President – Network Planning. "With the addition of Aruba, St. Maarten and recently added Mazatlán, customers have three brand-new sunny destinations to look forward to this winter."

Delta's new flights to Aruba (AUA) will operate on Fridays and Sundays. Travelers can unwind on Eagle Beach, snorkel in the blue waters of Baby Beach, explore Arikok National Park and enjoy the vibrant nightlife of Oranjestad. 

St. Maarten

Delta flights to St. Maarten (SXM) will operate on Thursdays and Saturdays. Travelers can immerse themselves in the island's rich culture, visit the bustling Marigot Market, savor diverse cuisine at Grand Case, engage in water sports at Orient Bay and explore scenic hiking trails.

More sunny getaways for MSP travelers

Delta is also increasing its services to Grand Cayman (GCM) with an additional weekly flight, totaling three, and to San Juan (SJU) with two more weekly trips, totaling 10. And there's more to come this winter with the recently announced flights to Mazatlán, Mexico (MZT), another new destination, further expanding Delta's footprint in Latin America.    With these new and expanded routes, Delta will operate 126 weekly flights and offer more than 20,000 seats per week from MSP to 15 stunning destinations this winter, including other popular places like Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, Liberia, Costa Rica; and Montego Bay, Jamaica. 

“The continued surge in international travel has been a key trend for MSP in recent years, and we are excited to see Delta add this new service,” said Brian Ryks, CEO of the Metropolitan Airports Commission, which owns and operates MSP Airport. “With the addition of these new flights, Upper Midwest travelers now have their largest-ever range of options to Latin America and the Caribbean. It’s a great time to start planning that winter escape.” 

A premium winter travel experience throughout the journey

Delta Sky Club customers can look forward to a comfortable start to a tropical getaway at Delta’s Minneapolis hub. Earlier this year, the airline unveiled its third and largest Delta Sky Club at MSP , featuring seating for more than 450 guests, a first-of-its-kind Sky Deck and more. 

Delta’s St. Maarten and Aruba service will operate on the Boeing 757-200 (75D) seasonally this winter providing customers a choice of First Class, Delta Comfort+, and Main Cabin options. Travelers in First Class can enjoy a chef-curated meal experience as well as complimentary premium wine, beer and spirits. Delta Comfort+ passengers can also enjoy complimentary beverages and more room to relax. Passengers in all cabins will enjoy more than 1,000 hours of complimentary premium entertainment via Delta Studio, in-seat power and fast, free Wi-Fi for Delta SkyMiles members.    Additionally, SkyMiles Members traveling to their sunny destinations can also enjoy Delta’s new personalized seatback screen. Delta Sync seatback is a milestone update to the airline’s industry-leading seatback screens that make them feel more like smart TVs while offering a host of day-of-travel tools for SkyMiles members designed to streamline their travel journey. 

Customers looking to book their vacation to Latin America or the Caribbean can do so through Delta Vacations - with flights as well as expert-recommended hotels, rides and activities booked all in one place. Only with Delta Vacations, SkyMiles Members can earn toward Medallion Status on the flight, hotel, car rental, and activity components of their vacation; earn bonus miles in addition to flight miles; and use miles to pay for all or part of their trip, making their sunny escape even more rewarding. 

Detailed flight schedules are as follows:  

• Routes , Destinations , Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport (MSP) , Caribbean , Latin America

Snowstorm across Midwest and Northern Plains bring blizzard conditions, power outages and travel chaos

LIVE – Updated at 14:42

A powerful winter storm is currently hammering the Midwest US and Northern Plains, bringing blizzard conditions, power outages and travel chaos to multiple states .

The National Weather Service has issued blizzard warnings from northern Colorado and Kansas through to parts of Minnesota, Nebraska and South Dakota on Monday, with between two and ten inches of snow expected to fall in some areas.

“Snow may accumulate at 1 to 2 inches per hour in heavier bands,” the weather service said.

The agency also warned that travel could be “near impossible at times” in affected areas , with winds of over 50 miles per hour expected to hit.

Strong winds could also cause widespread power outages, with falling trees hitting power lines.

It comes after a storm dumped more than two feet of snow on areas including Maine, New Hampshire and Vermont last week. Following last week’s storm, around 160,000 homes and businesses were still without power across the Northeast as of late Sunday night, according to PowerOutage.us.

• Blizzard warnings in effect in several states, with between two and ten inches of snow expected to fall

Winter storm in Maine leaves 120,000 without power

Winds of over 50 miles per hour expected, causing power outages and travel chaos, 16 states currently under winter weather alerts.

According to the National Weather Service, 16 states are currently under winter eater alerts. Some parts of the country are expected to get several inches of snow while others will be pummeled with rain.

Large tree crushes car on Fifth Avenue amid heavy rainfall in NY

A giant tree fell on Fifth Avenue on Saturday, crushing a car amid heavy rainfall in New York.

More than 3.5 inches of rain fell in Central Park over the weekend, causing motorists to become trapped on flooded roads.

At least one car was crushed by a falling tree not far from the park, on Fifth Avenue, while three other cars were damaged.

The tree crunched the roof of a red sedan on Saturday night after it fell across the length of Fifth Avenue between East 94th Street to East 93rd Street. The roadway had to be closed for most of the night.

The city’s Department of Parks & Recreation dispatched a crew to remove the tree.

NYC Emergency Management cautioned people to be on alert for the potential for black ice after overnight temperatures dipped below freezing.

“New Yorkers are advised to take caution when driving due to the increased risk of black ice on roadways across the city,” its X account posted.

Mapped: Powerful winter storm tracking through the US

A powerful winter storm is currently moving through the US Midwest and Northern Plains.

The National Weather Service said rain and snow will continue through Tuesday with, three to five inches of snow falling across west central and central Minnesota.

Snowfall is expected to taper off quickly to the south and east, the agency added,

Heading into Tuesday and Wednesday night, much of the US will see much cooler air. However, the NWS has warned this could lead to a flash freeze scenario after a couple of days.

Snowfall projections across the country

According to The Washington Post, here are some of the snowfall projections expected across the country this week:

• Dupree, South Dakota.: 12 inches
• Wausau, Wisconsin: 11 inches
• Eau Claire, Wisconsin: 10 inches
• Minnetonka, Minnesota: 7.4 inches
• Bloomington, Minnesota: 7.5 inches
• St. Cloud, Minnesota: 7.1 inches
• Bismarck, North Dakota: 3.2 inches

See it: Horses wearing blankets of snow as storm moves across Montana

Winter storm pummels midwest us with heavy snow and blizzard conditions.

A powerful winter storm is expected to bring heavy  snow  and  blizzard  conditions in the Plains and Upper Midwest on Monday and Tuesday, according to the  National Weather Service .

Read more below:

Winter storm pummels midwest US with heavy snow and blizzard conditions

Winds of over 50 miles per hour are expected to hit the Midwest US and Northern Plains through Monday and Tuesday, causing power outages and travel chaos.

“Heavy snow and gusty winds will produce areas of blowing and drifting snow and possible blizzard conditions Sunday into Monday,” the National Weather Service has warned.

Power outages are expected across the region, with heavy, wet snow and falling trees hitting power lines.

Strong winds and heavy snow may also cause travel chaos, the NWS added, warning that travel could be “near impossible at times” in affected areas.

Hundreds of thousands of homes in Maine were left without power on Sunday night after a storm dumped more than two feet of snow on the state.

Around 120,000 homes and businesses were left without power in Maine on Sunday night, according to PowerOutage.us .

Central Maine said many power lines were grounded across the state after the storm blew through, with the utility company responding to more than 700 emergency calls on Sunday for issues including blocked roads and downed lines.

The company added that although it had restored power to more than 50 per cent of customers impacted by the storm as of Sunday night, restoration efforts in severely impacted coastal areas could last through Wednesday.

NWS: Midwest storm expected to bring ‘strong, gusty winds’ and ‘heavy snow’

Aurora borealis visible in parts of us after ‘rare’ space storm.

The Aurora Borealis was visible in parts of the US on Sunday night due to a rare geomagnetic storm.

A geomagnetic storm is a major disturbance to the Earth’s outer magnetic field most commonly caused by a strong surge of solar wind from the Sun known as a “coronal mass ejection,” according to the US Geological Survey.

The event meant the Northern Lights were visible in parts of he Pacific Northwest, Northern Plains, Great Lakes and interior Northeast on Sunday night.

Storms sweep the US from coast to coast causing frigid temps, power outages and traffic accidents

Heavy rain and quarter-sized hail fell in Southern California Sunday as the National Weather Service predicted lightning and wind gusts approaching 60 mph (97 kph) in the mountain area earlier in the day.

The California storm was moving south from the Sierra Nevada , where areas around Lake Tahoe received about a foot (30 cm) of new snow and Mammoth Mountain reported up to 18 inches (45 cm) by Sunday morning. A day earlier, the resort was forced to close several ski lifts after a 91-mph (147-kph) wind gust was recorded.

A 35-year-old woman was rescued after being swept away in the storm-swollen Los Angeles River, the LA Fire Department said. She was airlifted to a hospital with minor injuries and hypothermia, the department said.

Hardy souls across New England shoveling out after major snow storm

Hardy souls across New England were spending their Sunday shoveling out after a major storm dumped more than two feet of snow in some areas, causing multiple road accidents, downing power lines and leaving hundreds of thousands across the Northeast without electricity.

Road conditions were dangerous Saturday night for crews seeking to restore power, according to Central Maine Power, which said the company’s focus overnight was responding to emergency calls and making downed power lines safe.

As of daylight Sunday, crews began assessing and clearing damage to begin widespread power restoration efforts. The company said it anticipates a multi-day effort in areas hardest hit by the storm.

In pictures: Heavy rainfall hits NY

National weather service predicts snow to fall at 6-12 inches from central nebraska to northeastern minnesota.

The area of the country spanning from central Nebraska to northeastern Minnesota is expected to get inches of snow this week, according to the National Weather Service. The agency is expected snow to fall at a rate of 1 to 2 inches per hour.

“Heavy snow and gusty winds approaching 50 mph will produce blizzard conditions with near zero visibility into early Tuesday,” the agency said in a news release. “Travel could be nearly impossible. Power outages and tree damage are likely in some areas due to the heavy and wet snow combined with icing and strong winds.”

The Aurora Borealis potentially visible on Monday due to storms

The Aurora Borealis will potentially be visible from the US, as far south as the Midwest. Observes wanting to catch a glimpse of the northern lights should find a dark place to look, such as a hill or beach that has an unobstructed view to the south. The best time to watch is between 10pm and 2am.

Snowfall expected to last until Wednesday

Officials with the National Weather Service are predicting that the snowfall could last until Wednesday , according to an advisory released on Monday.

Heavy snow and gusty winds approaching 50mph will create blizzard conditions with near zero visibility into early Tuesday, the release noted, making travel almost impossible.

Areas of the Mississippi Valley and Gulf Coast will experience scattered rain showers and thunderstorms in addition to a cold front on Monday. In Texas, tornadoes and damaging winds are possible in the eastern side of the state through the Lower Mississippi Valley, according to the Storm Prediction Center.

Severe rain could turn into flooding in southern Missouri through Arkansas, Mississippi and west-central Alabama.

Watch: Storm moves across the US

Snowfall reports from march 23 to 24, latest photos as heavy snow hits midwest, watch: graphic of storms.

FORECAST: Stormy 24 hours ahead

Weather headlines.

• Severe T-Storm WATCH for Lawrence, Jackson, & Jennings Counties in Indiana until 8PM ET
• Strong storms possible this evening, more likely on Wednesday
• Heat returns on Friday

LATEST FORECAST

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WAVE) - After a round of thunderstorms fades on arrival this evening we’ll watch for additional storm development overnight, especially in Southern Indiana. Lows tonight will only drop into the 70s heading into Wednesday morning.

Rounds of thunderstorms will move through from morning through afternoon and early evening on Wednesday. Some of these storms will be strong with gusty winds. Highs will be in the 80s on Wednesday.

Scattered thunderstorms left in our area Wednesday evening will depart overnight into early Thursday morning, leaving us with cooler temperatures in the 60s behind the cold front. Thursday is a quieter day with sunshine and lower humidity. Highs will get into the mid to upper 80s in the afternoon.

The heat is back on Friday with highs well into the 90s during the afternoon. Humidity will also creep upward this weekend ahead of another cold front passing through on Sunday. That front will bring us scattered storm chances and additional heat relief.

Copyright 2024 WAVE. All rights reserved.

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Traveling During a Heat Wave: Tips and Precautions

It’s summer and the temperature is rising. Here’s what you need to know to protect yourself and your vacation dollars.

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By Ceylan Yeğinsu

Follow our updates for the latest on the heat wave across the U.S.

It’s set to be another scorching summer, with extreme and prolonged heat waves forecast across many parts of the United States and Europe.

The stifling conditions could impact millions of travelers and wreak havoc on vacations at some of the world’s most popular tourist destinations. Multiple heat-related deaths among tourists have been reported in Greece and Saudi Arabia in June following extreme temperatures in the Middle East and Aegean regions. Even those who have booked trips in traditionally cooler places may not be spared from the summer heat because of the growing unpredictability of weather patterns.

Here are some tips on how to manage high temperatures when traveling in a heat zone.

Check government guidance

If a heat wave has been forecast at your destination, check government websites before embarking on your trip to give yourself plenty of time to plan and adapt. In extreme temperatures, governments often issue heat advisories warning people to stay indoors during peak heat hours and provide resources to help residents and visitors stay cool. In the United States, the National Integrated Heat Health Information System has a website with information and tools to help prevent illness and death during excessive heat.

Tourist attractions also provide important updates about the conditions at the sights, including any scheduled closures, as a precaution against high temperatures. Some cities grappling with intensive heat, like Los Angeles, Miami, Athens and Melbourne, have assigned chief heat officers to prepare for the heat waves and lead emergency responses.

Avoid peak sun hours

It may seem obvious, but staying outdoors for prolonged periods of time when the sun is at its peak can put many at risk of heat exhaustion. Even if the temperature does not read exceptionally high, excessive dry heat or humidity can make an environment feel hotter than it is.

Travel advisers are adapting itineraries, putting sightseeing in the cooler early morning and evening hours and prebooking tickets for their clients so they do not have to wait in long lines.

“We tend to do activities and tours in the morning, then stop for lunch, and in the mid- to late afternoon you either go back to the hotel to sit by the pool or go to the beach,” said Gary Portuesi, a co-managing partner at Authentic Explorations, a New York-based travel company that specializes in Europe.

Hiking in the middle of the day is also not advised. On June 5, Dr. Michael Mosley, a British medical journalist, died during an afternoon hike in a 104-degree heat wave on the Greek Island of Symi. Four more tourists, including an American man , have recently died in Greece as temperatures have continued to soar.

“I would always recommend going hiking with a certified local guide and under no circumstances alone,” said Franziska Basso, a Milan-based travel adviser for Dreamsteam Exclusive Travel . “Of course, avoid the hottest hours of the day. Go hiking very early in the morning. And always stick to official hiking trails.”

In some European cities, including Paris and London, air conditioning is not a given, so check if it is available before booking a hotel, restaurant or transportation to ensure you have a cool place to find respite from the scorching heat. Visiting a museum or other indoor sightseeing is another good option, but expect crowds at peak hours.

Stay hydrated and take a siesta

Dehydration and heatstroke are among the most common causes of hospitalization during heat waves and can be prevented by staying hydrated and limiting alcohol consumption. During meals, consider eating foods like melons, cucumbers and celery as it can help to sustain hydration throughout the day. Always carry a water bottle with you and consider a parasol and portable fan to help keep you cool and shaded when outdoors.

While your itinerary may be packed with activities and tours, the heat can take a toll on stamina, so consider following the European siesta ritual by breaking up your day with a short nap.

“I’m telling my clients to adapt their itineraries and take advantage of the after-lunch siesta and then push their tours to later in the day when it’s cooler,” said Sarah Johnson, who owns Paper Ink & Passports Travel, a luxury travel company based in Pennsylvania. “There’s a reason they’ve been doing it in Spain and Italy for generations. Walking around in the midday heat and waiting in line could really hurt some people.”

Wear cool clothing

The National Weather Service recommends lightweight, loosefitting, light-colored clothing for outdoor use as it reflects heat and sunlight . Hats and sunscreen are also recommended to protect the face and scalp from harmful UV rays.

Just because it’s hot, doesn’t mean it will be dry. Heat waves can bring torrential rainfall, so be prepared.

“My biggest advice to travelers is to be prepared — for hot or cold, dry or wet weather since one never knows,” said Laurel Brunvoll, the owner of Unforgettable Trips , a Maryland-based travel agency. “Pack layers.”

Book a flexible trip

Even after taking all the right precautions, traveling in a heat wave can be miserable, making it worthwhile to make flexible bookings and purchase “cancel for any reason” travel insurance to have the option to postpone your trip to a cooler time.

Sensible Weather, a Los Angeles-based start-up that provides a weather guarantee for vacations and outdoor experiences, has recently added high heat protection to its coverage. Travelers booking through a Sensible partner in the United States will be able to add daily protection that will allow them to claim reimbursement for a booking if the temperature exceeds a threshold that is usually set between 90 and 100 degrees.

“Our customers can still go on their vacations, but if it’s too hot for some hours of the day and unpleasant to go outside, you can hang out in the air-conditioning and we will reimburse you,” said Nick Cavanaugh, the company’s founder, who was developing the product while caught in a heat wave in Barcelona last year. Those on package tours are reimbursed for the average daily rate of their entire trip for each day that surpassed the heat threshold.

For more travel advice, visit our collection of Travel 101 tips and hacks.

Ceylan Yeginsu is a travel reporter for The Times who frequently writes about the cruise industry and Europe, where she is based. More about Ceylan Yeğinsu

What to Know During Extreme Heat

Staying Safe:  We asked emergency room doctors for their advice on protecting yourself  from dehydration, heat stroke and other serious health problems.

Heat’s Physical Toll:  High temperatures can put the body under immense stress. Here’s what it looks like .

Effect on the Brain:  While heat can have an alarming impact on our bodies, it can also impair cognition and make us irritable, impulsive and aggressive .

Keeping Cool Indoors:  Too hot to go outside? Here’s how to be comfortable in your home  — with or without air-conditioning.

Sleeping Tips:  Heat can affect both how much you sleep and how good that sleep is. These simple steps  can help you get a better night’s rest when it’s hot.

Medications:  Certain antidepressants, blood pressure pills and other drugs make you more susceptible to heat-related illness .

Travel:  Stifling conditions could impact your travel plans this summer. Use these tips and precautions  to protect yourself and your vacation dollars.

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To protect its tee sheets, a famous NY muni system cracks down on bad actors, bots

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Demand for tee times at the famous New York municipal facility is as strong as ever. But complaints about the booking system have increased.

New York State Parks

Bots beware. The folks at Bethpage State Park are on to you. Other bad actors: take notice, too. The operators of the most celebrated constellation of municipal golf courses in the country are cracking down on misuse of their busy tee-time reservation system.

In an email sent last week to registered golfers, Bethpage management, which oversees five 18-hole courses on Long Island, including the renowned Black Course , announced a series of policy changes meant to thwart those who try to game the system for their own financial or recreational gain.

The changes, some of which have already been put into effect, include cancellation restrictions and tee-time frequency limits as well as the elimination of dubious accounts. A new booking category has also been created to ensure that only verified New York State residents get 7-day-in-advance reservation access to the park’s quintet of courses, the Black, Red, Green, Yellow and Blue .

In addition to laying out those policy shifts, the email warned against the use of bots or “any third-party” booking service that advertises access to the Bethpage tee sheet, while cautioning that any golfer “caught trying to resell a tee time, barter a tee time, or otherwise try (sic) and circumvent the reservation system” would have their account suspended indefinitely. “In some cases,” the email said, “State Park Police may also need to be involved.”

The stern messaging comes as Bethpage grapples with a large-scale version of a challenge faced by many courses around the country in the wake of a pandemic-era golf boom: tee-time demand that outstrips supply.

While this imbalance is hardly new to Bethpage (especially on the multiple-time major championship host Black Course, where generations of golfers have slept in their cars in the hopes of landing a coveted slot), it has taken on a new tilt in the digital age. In an email to GOLF.com, Bethpage State Park director Scott Matson said that robust demand at the facility has been holding steady since the Covid-spike. No big change there. “The increase we have seen,” Matson wrote, “is in the form of complaints from our golfers who often are not able to make a reservation, because they go so quickly each night at 7 p.m.,” when new bookings are made available online.

Why they go so quickly is another matter. One reason, it appears, is that many golfers have gained an unfair edge, whether by creating multiple accounts under different profiles, or reserving times only to cancel them in coordination with friends, family members or playing partners, among other end-arounds. In its email to registered golfers, Bethpage management said it had spent the past few months vetting “every account” in its reservation system and had found hundreds of individuals with duplicate accounts. Those accounts have been deleted, the email said. To prevent such accounts from being created in the future, a new residency verification process has been put in place, requiring users to submit an emailed copy of their New York driver’s license or an official New York State I.D.

Under a new cancellation policy, meanwhile, golfers will be allowed to scrap a reservation up to eight times in a calendar month. Anything more will result in the suspension of their account. That stricture will kick in on July 1 of this year. Other tee-time restrictions have been put in place. As of this week, reservations on the Red Course, which were once unlimited, have been capped at one booking every 14 days. The limit on the Black Course will remain as is: one reservation every 28 days.

Wangling one’s way onto the first tee of a log-jammed course is a tradition as old as bribing the starter, but that analog method has largely given way to identity-concealing, high-tech tools. The impact has been felt far beyond New York. In Los Angeles, where city and county officials had once pooh-poohed concerns over bots and third-party brokers in the municipal golf system, public grumbling about those issues grew loud enough this year to elicit a response; a $10 booking fee was recently imposed to discourage the resale of tee times.

How prevalent bots are in the Bethpage system is difficult to say. In his email to GOLF.com, park director Matson said that Bethpage’s reservation system has a Google security feature that activates if it senses “abnormality or automation from the user device on the other side.”

“We know (bots) are out there, and not just for golf tee times,” Matson said. “But we haven’t seen any consistent, fool-proof evidence yet of them working to secure tee times.”

As for third-party brokers, “a few sites popped up during the pandemic,” but those were shut down, Matson said, with help from the New York State Park Police. “We have not seen any evidence of this recently but know the rumor is out there amongst the golfing public.”

One way to gauge the nature and extent of the problem may be to see how well the remedies work. In its email to registered Bethpage golfers, park management struck an optimistic tone.

“We know some of these changes may cause some initial consternation amongst the golfing public, but we are hopeful that these changes may allow more users to obtain reservations moving forward.”

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A golf, food and travel writer, Josh Sens has been a GOLF Magazine contributor since 2004 and now contributes across all of GOLF’s platforms. His work has been anthologized in The Best American Sportswriting. He is also the co-author, with Sammy Hagar, of Are We Having Any Fun Yet: the Cooking and Partying Handbook.

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