Driving to Chicago from CA

[Michael's Mom]

Hi everyone!
I'm new, just signed up today, and am so glad to have found this site. Looks like i will be busy reading and posting on several topics.

My son Michael is graduating Jan 23...I simply CANNOT wait to see him again!! We've decided to drive to GL from California to not only save on airfares but to be able to take 2 of our kids. We've never driven in winter months. Does anyone have any tips for making the trip or have any ideas of what we can expect weather-wise??

Thanks a lot!
Laura L.

[Maryellen]

Well in the Chicago area there will be snow, just take your time and try not to drive after dark unless you are in a well lit area of road. The worst thing to hit is what they call Black Ice, you can't see it till you hit it. Make sure you have a shovel and road salt it will help if you get stuck. ILL is good about getting the roads cleared so you should be ok, If you stay off the farm roads like highway 57 and head straight into the chicago area you will be fine. Just remember to take your time and be safe. I will be praying for you a safe trip. My Daughters PIR is Jan 30th and I'm coming up from Fl so I will be making that long trip just like you. Make sure you have lots of warm cloths and wear layers. Be Safe and Congrats on your sons PIR.

[Michael's Mom]

Thank you, Maryellen! I really appreciate your response. Wow, that's quite a trip for you too. I am definitely praying for good weather especially since we have to go thru Denver too.

Congratulations to your daughter too! Have a good trip,
Laura

[Hoppi aka Angie]

Below is what should be done to winterize a car:

Step 1) Don't put off a 30,000-mile full service, if your car is due.

Step 2) Flush the cooling system and replace the coolant.

Step 3) Replace the windshield wiper blades. Put windshield washer fluid in the windshield washer reservoir (plain water will freeze).

Step 4) Have the battery serviced (clean the battery terminal ends and add water) and load-tested to check its ability to hold a charge. If the battery is more than 4 1/2 years old, replace it.

Step 5) Use a tire gauge to check the tire pressure. Air contracts with cold, and the tires may become low as the temperature drops.

Step 6) Make sure there is air in the spare tire and that all the proper tire-changing equipment is in the trunk.

Step 7) Make sure the tires are in good condition. If you are not sure what this means, ask a mechanic (in a shop that doesn't sell tires) for an opinion.

Step 8) Check the lights, heater and defroster.

Step 9) Keep the gas tank as full as possible to prevent moisture from freezing in the gas lines.

Step 10) Get a brake check if you haven't had one in the last six months.

Step 11) Put together an emergency winter kit for the trunk of your car: blanket, extra boots and gloves, ice scraper, small snow shovel, flashlight and kitty litter (for traction when stuck in the snow).

[Michael's Mom]

Thank you, Hoppi, all good tips. We were going to do some of those things but there's a few i hadn't thought of...hubby probably would have but not me!

[Anti M]

Be sure to pack snacks and refillable water bottles so you don't have to be gouged at every fuel stop. Also handy if you get stuck somewhere.

Which route have you selected?

[Michael's Mom]

I have a route i got from AAA online but my husband said we might look at a way to avoid Denver, so we'll see. The other highways it says to take is I-80, then I-88, and then some more highways that are in Illinois. We'll go thru a bit of southern Nevada, Utah, Colorado, Nebraska, Iowa, then northern Illinois.

Yes, i'm already making alist of snacks and will prepare some burritos and sandwiches to avoid stopping at so many fast food places. most hotels have micros and fridges so that helps. We've learned from past vacations how a $40 gas fill up can go up to a $75 snack binge at checkout!

Now, can we bring Chrsitmas gifts? I am hoping we can bring Michael some CD's and a little CD player, things like that.

blessings, Laura L>

[Tammy]

Please becareful. The weather is so bad around that area that you are wanting to travel. Make sure you are leaving a few days earlier just incase you get caught somewhere. You don't want to miss that special day.

[Michael's Mom]

Tammy, i AM worried about this trip and we're leaving Wed early morning, 3 a.m, driving all day till about 8 pm, then early Thursday again to hopefully arrive in GL by evening. Do you think this is enough time? AAA and Expedia estimated 28 hours drive time, but of course, doesn't figure in weather conditions. I've never driven east this far. We have chains. I don't care how long it takes to get back home...just get us there by Friday morning!

Should we avoid Denver?

[Michael's Mom]

Ok, for what forecasts are worth....
I looked up many cities we'll be driving through and input next weeks date to get a forecast and it looks good. All sunny and clear skies but cold temps forecasted for areas from Nevada to Iowa. I've yet to check for cities in IL but the bulk of our trip looks good!! I'm very relieved and hope for the best. Say a prayer for us if you can!

blessings,Laura L