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Published: 18 March 2026 | Last reviewed: 18 March 2026 | Reviewed by: VanCompare Editorial Team
Cold, wet and icy conditions can turn everyday van journeys into higher-risk drives — especially early mornings, rural routes and untreated side roads. Use this practical checklist to prepare your van, reduce the chance of a breakdown, and drive more smoothly when grip is limited.
1) Start with tyres: pressure, tread and grip
- Check tyre pressures when tyres are cold, and adjust to the vehicle’s recommended pressures.
- Check tread depth and condition (cuts, bulges, uneven wear). Legal minimum is 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the tyre. More tread in winter helps with water clearance and grip. [1]
- Use the 20p test at multiple points on each tyre to check tread. [2]
- Don’t forget the spare (if fitted) and any tyre repair kit.
2) Fix visibility first: screens, lights and demisting
- Top up screenwash with a winter mix to reduce freezing and ensure jets spray properly. [3]
- Check wiper blades and replace if they smear or streak. [3]
- Clear all windows and mirrors fully before setting off. [4]
- Check all lights work, and keep headlights and number plates clean — salt and spray build up quickly. [4]
3) Plan for longer stops (and carry a few essentials)
- Check weather warnings and consider whether the trip is necessary if conditions are severe. [5]
- Keep your phone charged and carry basics in the van: warm layer/blanket, torch, ice scraper/de-icer, drink/snack. [5]
4) Drive like grip is limited: smooth inputs, bigger gaps
- Accelerate, brake and steer gently to reduce the chance of a skid. [5]
- Leave much bigger following distances — stopping can take up to 10x longer on snow or ice. [5]
- If you start to lose traction, ease off smoothly; avoid harsh braking or sudden steering. [5]
5) Hills, junctions and braking: avoid getting “stuck”
- On slopes, keep momentum where safe and legal; avoid unnecessary stops on slippery roads.
- When moving off, use a higher gear if appropriate to reduce wheelspin, and keep clutch/throttle inputs gentle. [5]
- Brake earlier and more progressively, especially on descents and when approaching junctions. [5]
What this can mean for van insurance and breakdown cover
- Confirm your policy use type (e.g., business use for work travel).
- Know your excess and check what your policy says about windscreen cover (if included).
- If you rely on your van for work, consider whether you need breakdown cover (often optional and separate from your main insurance).
Sources
- TyreSafe – Tyre Condition, Pressure and Tread Depth Checks: View source
- TyreSafe – How to Check Tyre Tread Depth with a 20p Coin: View source
- Met Office – 6 things to do to prepare your vehicle for winter weather: View source
- Wakefield Council – Winter driving advice (vehicle checks and clearing windows/lights): View source
- UK Government – The Highway Code: Driving in adverse weather conditions (226 to 237): View source
VanCompare Editorial Team
The VanCompare Editorial Team produces clear, practical guidance on UK van insurance and related topics. We work with FCA authorised insurance providers and use insurer information where relevant to explain cover in plain English and help drivers make informed decisions.
- Where relevant, our content is checked against publicly available UK guidance and information from sources such as the FCA and GOV.UK to help keep it accurate and up to date.
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