Winter Wonderland: Tips for Van Rentals in Cold Weather Climates

Winter travel with a group can be magical — ski trips, holiday visits, snowy national parks — but cold-weather driving takes a little extra care. Here’s how to rent and travel smart when the temperature drops, and why the right van makes all the difference.

Choose a van built for the conditions

Cold-weather driving is where our Mercedes-Benz Sprinters really earn their keep: Crosswind Assist helps in gusty, open-road conditions, Lane Keeping Assist and automatic emergency braking add a safety margin, and a smooth, stable ride keeps everyone comfortable on long winter hauls.

Pack for the cold

Bring blankets, warm layers, and an emergency kit — flashlight, water, snacks, and a phone charger. Climate control keeps the cabin cozy, but it’s smart to be prepared if plans change.

Drive for the weather

Slow down, leave extra following distance, and give yourself more time than usual. Keep the fuel tank topped up and check the forecast along your route before you set out.

Plan the route and the stops

Map out your fuel and rest stops in advance, especially heading into remote or mountain areas. One warm, comfortable van keeps the whole group together and makes the winter miles easy.

Go where winter takes you

Because we’re Illinois-based, you can drive our vans anywhere across the USA and into Canada — a ski trip north, a snowy escape to the mountains, or a holiday visit a few states over — no special license needed for personal use.

Which van should you pick?

For winter safety and comfort, the 15-passenger Mercedes-Benz Sprinter with its advanced driver-assist features is the confident choice; the 15-passenger Ford Transit is the budget-friendly option. See the full fleet.