Whether you are a driver, a public transport user or you prefer to walk/cycle - commuting in the winter months is a nightmare. Between iced over cars, dangerous black ice or cancelled trains, there several things that can interrupt your commute but worry no more this guide will help you tackle the effects of winter weather on your commute.

Public Transport

Train

There is no denying that those of us who commute by public transport are some of the worst affected and with cold winter weather forecasted for the coming months, it is important that rail and bus commuters are prepared.

If you are a train commuter, then you likely already know that trains are not always reliable and, unfortunately, winter weather only makes this worse. However, as inconvenient as this is for workers, travelling by train in winter weather can be highly dangerous.

To combat the effects of winter weather on your train commute, there are a few things you can do:

· Catch an earlier train. This will help as by catching an earlier train you help negate the delays you will face and will (hopefully) arrive at work on time.

· Let your manager know beforehand if you are likely to be affected by forecasted weather. They may allow you to work from home or will, at last, allow for travel delays.

· Keep a hold on receipts. If you are delayed by a certain amount of time or your trains are cancelled, you can claim travel compensation from most rail networks.

· Be patient. Yes, it is frustrating to have train delays or cancellations, but in Winter, this is a safety issue. Try to be patient and polite to rail staff – it isn’t their fault.

Bus

Similarly, those travelling bus to and from work will know that delays in the winter months are to be expected. Being on the roads in snow, ice and freezing rain is an extremely dangerous thing, so, delays are expected.

To combat the effects of winter weather on your bus commute, you should:

· As above, inform your managers. They may be flexible if your commute is going to take too long or be dangerous.

· Wrap up warm. Buses don’t typically have heating facilitated and can often be very cold in winter.

· Check service ahead of time. Make sure you are checking with your local bus provider for service announcements about bus timetables and cancellations.

· Be patient. Buses tend to grow overcrowded in winter with rail commuters from a cancelled train or added footfall from Christmas shoppers. Consider this ahead of time.

Drivers

Driving is notoriously dangerous in winter weather, and it is something that should be taken extremely seriously. Winter weather is bad for all commuters, but it is especially dangerous those who will have to drive in snow, hail and ice. In fact, doing so isn’t just dangerous for you, but it can also be highly damaging to your car, so think carefully before venturing out in winter.

However, if you do need to commute by car, then it is vital you ensure you are prepared and safe. So, consider the following:

· Demist and defrost your car before you head out. Visibility is already reduced in winter weather due to snow, hail and fog so don’t make things harder for yourself in already difficult conditions. Ensure your car is warmed up, first and mist free before you set off.

· Consider winter tires. Many people assume that their tires are all-season tires. However, these tires are likely not going to be as effective in the winter. Winter tires, however, have superior tread patterns gripping onto ice and snow and softer rubber compounds to enhance grip. This will make driving not only easier but safer.

· Keep the tank full. You will burn more gas in the winter months with traffic, longer journey times etc. Make sure your tank is full as the last thing you want is to be stranded on an already tricky journey.

· Prepare for delays. They are unavoidable in winter weather, so plan ahead and allow extra time for traffic, breakdowns and road closures.

· Pack your boot with emergency supplies. A snow shovel and a bag of salt will be useful for digging your wheels out of snow pile and give them grip on snow or ice. Some snacks and bottles of water will tide you over if you get stuck, and a blanket or jumper will keep you warm.

Walking or Cycling

Walking or cycling to work in the winter weather may be the quickest option for getting to work on time and safely. However, it is important that you are taking precautions to make sure you are warm, safe and high-visible during these walks.

So, when you are walking to work in the winter:

· Invest in a waterproof, windproof coat – this is going to be vital in keeping you dry and warm.

· Wear the right shoes. Winter is the time for snow boots, hiking or walking boots with added grip. Or, consider a pair of waterproof wellies.

· Accessories are everything. Get yourself thick, well-insulated socks. Hat, scarf and gloves are also key investments for this type of weather.

· Layer up. Therma vests and leggings are great staples for this weather, as are cardigans and jumpers.

· Extra is better. Take an extra pair of socks, and perhaps a change of clothes to work in case yours get wet on the way in.

· High-Vis is a must. A high-vis jacket is a good idea for cyclists, but even for those who walk to ensure you are seen by any cars, taxis and buses which are on the road.

However, you are planning to commute this winter, ensure you are prepared by following these tips for a safe winter commute.

Author Bio

Chris Smith is a writer and blogger. Over his career he has written for a number of publications, including The Guardian, The Telegraph, GoDaddy and The Huffington Post. He writes about sport and finance on his website Spend It Like Beckham.