How to be well prepared for winter sports

1. Arrange your transportation in advance

Many people arrange their accommodation months in advance, but forget about their transport. That's a shame, because having the right car or bus makes your winter sports holiday a lot more relaxing. Whether you're travelling as a couple or with a whole group of friends, at DIKS you can hire a spacious car, passenger bus with winter tyres, snow chains and a roof box. That way, you can take everything you need with you in one go.

2. Ensure you have suitable tyres (and check the rules for each country)

Driving with summer tyres on winter sports trips is not an option. In many European countries, winter tyres are mandatory during the winter months. All vehicles in the winter sports category can be fitted with these tyres as soon as we receive your request. 

Our tyres meet European requirements for winter conditions. Would you prefer to hit the road with real winter tyres, or are you unsure about the type of tyre? Please contact us to discuss the options. That way, you can be sure that you are well prepared and safe on the road.

Please note: our cars are not equipped with winter tyres as standard. Add these when making your reservation. Even with winter tyres, always keep a safe distance and adjust your speed in snow or black ice.

3. Don't forget your snow chains

Without snow chains, you'll literally be stuck on many mountain roads. They provide grip on steep slopes, thick snow, or ice. In countries like Austria, France, and Italy, they are mandatory in many places whenever a road sign with a snow chain symbol appears.

At DIKS, you can easily rent snow chains as an extra. We have both manual and self-tensioning versions, suitable for our cars and buses.

4. Make sure you have enough space (for skis, snowboards and suitcases)

Skis, snowboards, helmets, thermal clothing: you need to take everything with you. But cramming everything into the boot is not ideal. That's why DIKS offers you several options, namely renting a passenger car or minibus with a roof box. 

When making your reservation, you can easily add a roof box under the heading “extras”. This ensures you have enough space for all your winter sports equipment, without compromising on comfort or safety.

5. Check the mandatory items per country

• France: Warning triangle, high-visibility vests

• Germany: First aid kit, warning triangle, high-visibility vests

• Italy: Warning triangle, high-visibility vests

• Austria: First aid kit, warning triangle, high-visibility vests

• Switzerland: Warning triangle

Please note: it is the renter's responsibility to comply with local laws and regulations. In some countries, for example, snow chains or winter tyres are mandatory. Always check the regulations for your destination and add the appropriate extras when booking.

6. Prepare for breakdowns or delays on the road

Winter weather sometimes creates unexpected situations: slippery conditions, traffic jams, or breakdowns. So always be prepared:

• Refuel in time: keep your tank at least half full

• Bring warm blankets, food, and drinks

• Have a flashlight and power bank ready

• Charge your phone en route (12V charger or power bank)

• Use a navigation system with up-to-date traffic information

Ready to go? Your winter sports checklist! 

✅ Transport arranged on time
✅ Car or bus with sufficient space
✅ Winter tyres with 3PMSF symbol
✅ Snow chains in the car
✅ Mandatory items checked per country
✅ Power bank, blankets, food and drink included
✅ Navigation + breakdown assistance arranged