How to be well prepared for winter sports (update 2025)

1. Arrange your transportation in advance

Many people arrange their accommodation months in advance but forget about transportation. That's a shame, because the right car or van can make your winter sports holiday much more relaxing. Whether you're going as a couple or with a whole group of friends, at DIKS you can rent a spacious car or passenger bus with winter tires, snow chains, and a roof box. This way, you can take everything you need with you all at once.

2. Make sure you have suitable tires (and check the regulations per country)

Driving with summer tires on a winter sports holiday is not an option. Winter tires or all-season tires with the 3PMSF (Three Peak Mountain Snowflake) symbol are mandatory in an increasing number of European countries. At DIKS, you can rent a vehicle with these approved tires upon request.

Note: Even if you have winter tires, always maintain sufficient distance and adjust your speed in snow or icy conditions. New to driving in snow? Consider a skid course: get to know your vehicle before heading into the mountains.

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 underwear: you need everything. But cramming everything into the trunk isn't ideal. That's why DIKS offers several options:

• Rent a car with a roof box (e.g., Peugeot 5008 or VW Multivan)

• Rent a passenger bus with a roof box (e.g., Mercedes Vito, for up to 9 people)

This way, you can take everything with you, without compromising on comfort or safety.

5. Check the mandatory items per country

Each winter sports destination has different rules regarding what you must have in your car. You are often responsible for this equipment yourself, even with a rental car. So make sure you arrange this in advance.Overview of mandatory items per country (September 2025):

• 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

Note: Some countries require a vignette, environmental sticker, or toll badge. Check this well in advance.

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

If you rent a vehicle from DIKS, you're guaranteed 24/7 roadside assistance as standard, both domestically and internationally. This way, you'll never be stranded for long, even in the snow.