Driving in snow 

A guide for first-time winter drivers in Finland

Planning a winter trip to Lapland or elsewhere in Finland? If you’re planning to rent a car and explore the snowy landscapes, driving in snow might be an entirely new experience for you. Don’t worry, with the right tips and preparation, winter driving can be safe and even enjoyable. Read more about driving in Rovaniemi. 

Driving in the snow for the first time

Driving in snowy and icy conditions for the first time can feel intimidating. Roads are often white, visibility may be limited, and stopping distances increase. But Finnish roads are well-maintained in winter, and cars are required to have winter tyres, which help a lot.

If it’s your first time driving in the snow, remember:

• Take it slow – speed is your biggest enemy.
• Keep distance from other cars – braking takes much longer.
• Avoid sudden steering, braking, or accelerating.
• Use low gears when starting or climbing hills.

How to drive in snow

Wondering how to drive in snow safely? Before setting off, remove all snow from your car. Not just the windows, but also the roof, bonnet, headlights, and license plates. Snow sliding off your roof can block your visibility or create hazards for other drivers. Also, ensure your lights are always on, even during daytime. Finnish winters are dark, and having your lights on improves both your visibility and safety.

While driving, maintain a steady and consistent speed. Avoid sudden acceleration or braking, as rapid movements can easily cause your tires to lose grip. Brake gently and well in advance, since stopping distances on snow and ice are much longer than on dry roads. Always approach intersections and turns carefully, slowing down in good time to prevent skidding. Remember, sudden movements in corners can easily cause your car to lose traction.

Here are key basics for driving:

• Clear snow from your car: Don’t forget the roof, headlights and license plates.
• Use your lights: Even during daylight hours, Finnish winters are dark.
• Keep a steady speed: Avoid rapid movements.
• Brake gently and early: Start slowing down much sooner than you normally would.
• Be extra careful at intersections and turns.
  

If your car starts to skid, don’t panic, steer gently in the direction you want to go and avoid heavy braking.

Tips for driving in snow

When driving in snow, planning ahead makes a big difference. Always make sure your fuel tank is sufficiently full, as petrol stations can be few and far between in more remote areas of Finland. It’s also wise to keep an emergency kit in your car, including warm clothing, gloves, snacks, water, and a phone charger, just in case you get delayed or stuck.

When going downhill, try to use engine braking by shifting to a lower gear, rather than relying solely on your brakes. This helps to maintain control and reduces the risk of skidding. Patience is essential, Finnish drivers are used to slow and cautious driving in winter, so don’t feel pressured to drive fast.

Finally, always check weather forecasts and road conditions before starting your journey. Weather can change quickly in Lapland, and knowing what to expect will help you drive more safely.

• Always have enough fuel – petrol stations can be far apart.
• Keep an emergency kit in your car (warm clothes, snacks, charger).
• Use engine braking when going downhill.
• Be patient – Finnish drivers are used to slow winter driving.
• Check weather forecasts and road conditions before setting off.

What is the best car for driving in snow?

When it comes to winter driving in Finland, four-wheel drive (4WD) or all-wheel drive (AWD) cars are the best choice. They provide better traction on snow and ice, making it easier to handle slippery roads and steep hills.

 If you’re planning to rent a car, you can feel confident: Finnish rental cars are typically well-prepared for winter conditions. They come equipped with proper winter tyres, which are mandatory by law during the colder months, as well as modern safety features like ABS brakes, traction control, and often heated seats and steering wheels for added comfort. Rental companies in Finland understand the demands of snowy roads, so the cars they provide are generally chosen and maintained with winter safety in mind.