The holiday season is one of the busiest travel times of the year. Whether you’re visiting family across Maryland, heading to Annapolis for festive events, or taking a long-distance road trip, safe driving becomes more important than ever. Winter weather, heavy traffic, and packed schedules can make holiday travel stressful—but with preparation, you can enjoy the season with confidence.
At Catlett’s Auto Service & Towing in Davidsonville, MD, we’ve been helping drivers stay road-ready since 1976. Here are the best holiday travel tips for Maryland drivers, designed to keep you safe, prepared, and stress-free this season.
1. Schedule a Pre-Trip Vehicle Inspection
Before heading out on the highway, make sure your vehicle is ready for the journey. A quick inspection can prevent roadside emergencies and ensure your car performs at its best.
Have a professional check:
- Tires (tread depth, pressure, and overall condition)
- Brakes for wear and responsiveness
- Battery strength, especially in cold weather
- Cooling and heating systems
- Oil and fluid levels
- Wipers and lights for visibility
Catlett’s offers convenient pre-trip inspections to help you avoid problems during holiday travel.
2. Plan Your Route Ahead of Time
Holiday traffic in Maryland can be unpredictable, particularly around:
- I-97 toward Annapolis and Baltimore
- I-495 (Capital Beltway)
- Route 50 heading to the Eastern Shore
- Shopping areas and downtown districts
Use GPS apps to check for delays, road closures, and weather updates. If possible, avoid peak travel times, such as the afternoon before major holidays.
3. Prepare for Winter Weather Conditions
Maryland weather can change quickly—sunny one day, snow or freezing rain the next. Before hitting the road, be sure your vehicle can handle winter conditions:
- Keep tire pressure at recommended levels (cold weather lowers PSI).
- Make sure you have at least half a tank of gas to prevent fuel line freeze.
- Pack warm clothing, blankets, and gloves in case of a breakdown.
- Clear all snow and ice from your car before leaving—not just the windshield.
Even short local trips can be risky in winter weather, so stay prepared.
4. Pack an Emergency Winter Kit
An emergency kit is essential—especially during busy holiday travel. Your kit should include:
- Flashlight and extra batteries
- Jumper cables
- Portable phone charger
- Ice scraper and small shovel
- First-aid supplies
- Bottled water and snacks
- Reflective triangles or road flares
This simple kit can make a big difference while waiting for help to arrive.
5. Drive Defensively and Stay Alert
Holiday roads are often crowded, and many drivers are distracted or traveling unfamiliar routes. To stay safe:
- Slow down and increase your following distance.
- Use headlights in rain, snow, and early dusk.
- Avoid sudden braking or sharp turns on icy pavement.
- Keep both hands on the wheel and avoid using your phone.
Staying alert protects both you and your passengers during the busiest time of year.
6. Know Who to Call in an Emergency
Even with preparation, breakdowns and accidents can still happen. Having a trusted towing and roadside provider saved in your phone ensures you’re never stranded.
Catlett’s Auto Service & Towing offers:
- 24/7 local and long-distance towing
- Dead battery services
- Flat tire changes
- Fuel delivery
- Lockout assistance
Our average response time for local calls is about 30 minutes, giving Maryland drivers peace of mind wherever the holidays take them.
Make Holiday Travel Safe and Stress-Free with Catlett’s
The holidays should be a time for celebration—not car trouble. With the right preparation and a reliable roadside team on your side, you can enjoy smooth, safe travel all season long.
📞 For roadside help or pre-trip service, call Catlett’s Auto Service & Towing at 410-798-5446.
From our family to yours, we wish you safe travels and a wonderful holiday season!