Travelers Choose to Drive to Get to Holiday Destinations This Year

Many people traveling for the holidays are trying to beat the storm coming by driving through the mountain passes to their destination. 

The Falcon family is playing with the little snow they found at the gas station before a storm brings much more white powder this week. 

"Tossed the kids in the car and wanted to have a road-trip somewhere, snow sounded like a great idea coming from the big bay area. So we just headed on the 80 and hopefully we see more snow in the Reno area," said Robert Falcon, from Milpitas, California.  

Falcon says 2015 was a tough year for his family, so he's hoping to make some happy memories with his children.

"We'd like to just end it out with some beautiful scenery and some good family time," said Falcon. 

Twelve members of the Sangh family have also been planning for family time for the holidays. 

Mohanbreet Sangh, from San Jose said, "It's very special. We all have busy and it's very good to drive together."

But without four-wheel drive to get through the slick, wet roads, Sangh had to put chains on his tires. 

"I bought my chains yesterday and I was thinking there would be someone that would help us put this on but in this weather, there was no one. So we just had to manage on our own," said Sangh.

It's also a smart idea to keep your car maintenance up to date. Checking the oil, filling up your tires with air, and of course, giving your car fuel if it's a long drive.

"Make sure you're full of gas," said Falcon. "Have a little bit of emergency supplies just in case."

Supplies like food and extra clothing. But you also want to leave room for all those presents you plan to bring in the car. 

Amy Helmers drove from Las Vegas to meet her mother, Carol Landis in Virginia City. They're heading to Lincoln, California and made sure their gifts won't end up on the road while they're driving. 

"It's all covered up, so nothing can fly out. We're not losing anything," said Amy Helmers from Las Vegas. 

Helmers also hopes other drivers will be safe on the road so everyone can get to their holiday destinations without any issues. 

Helmers added, "You'll probably get there faster if you just slow down and take your time, rather than speed up, cut in front of people and cause an accident."

If you plan to hit the road these next few days, there are ways to find out road conditions throughout the state. Dial 5-1-1 for updates.