COLUMBIA, South Carolina – As Thanksgiving travel approaches, state transportation officials are urging South Carolina drivers to prepare vehicles now for winter and long-distance holiday driving. From Columbia to Greenville, motorists are being encouraged to complete maintenance checks and gather emergency supplies before colder air and the season’s first storms develop later this month.
According to the South Carolina Department of Transportation, now is the best time to inspect tires, replace wiper blades, check antifreeze levels, and test batteries. Drivers should also pack a basic emergency kit that includes blankets, jumper cables, bottled water, nonperishable snacks, and traction materials such as sand or kitty litter in case of roadside trouble.
Motorists planning Thanksgiving trips along I-26, I-20, and I-95 should be ready for heavier traffic and variable conditions between the Upstate and the coast. “Even though our winters are milder, being prepared is critical when cold or ice hits unexpectedly,” an SCDOT spokesperson said. Drivers are encouraged to keep at least a half tank of fuel, pack warm clothing, and ensure phones are charged before leaving home.
SCDOT recommends using 511SC.org for real-time traffic and weather updates during the busy travel season. Officials say that early preparation helps keep drivers safe and reduces delays across South Carolina’s major routes as families head out for Thanksgiving gatherings.
