AAA Idaho, the Idaho Transportation Department, the Boise Airport and the U.S. Transportation Security Administration offer this advice to holiday travelers:

Travel by car

• Plan ahead. Get point-to-point driving directions, gas station locations and prices, maps, and  aids before you go.

• Prepare your vehicle. Have your vehicle checked by a qualified technician. Check tires, batteries and fluid levels. Take a winter driving kit, including such items as jumper cables, traction mats, water, blankets, a flashlight (with new batteries) and a cell phone (with charged battery).

• Buckle up. Follow all posted speed limits and obey all traffic laws.

• Prepare yourself. Dress in layers and dress according to your destination. Let someone know when you're leaving, where you're going, and when you expect to arrive.

• Dial 511 and go to www.511.Idaho.gov for road conditions and other traveler services

• Slow down. Leave a few minutes early and allow extra time to get to destinations. It is better to be a few minutes late than put oneself and others at risk by driving too fast for the conditions.

• Buckle up. Wearing a seat belt is one of the easiest safety precautions one can take. Also, children must be properly secured in a safety seat that is right for their age and weight.

• Use extra caution. Be aware of potentially icy areas such as shady spots and bridges. Take caution against black ice. Drive less than the speed limit if conditions warrant.

• Drive safely around snowplows. Keep at least two car lengths behind snowplows for every 10 mph of car speed. Do not pass a snowplow, and never drive through the snow being ejected from the plows because the force of the spraying snow can throw a car out of control.

• Prepare for winter. Winter conditions increase the importance of a well-maintained vehicle. Keep car windows, mirrors and lights clear of snow and ice.

• Confirm reservations. Confirm all travel reservations (flight, hotel, rental car) 24 to 48  hours in advance.  

• Request special assistance in advance. If you require special assistance, such as a  wheelchair, notify your airline in advance.