Do You Need Snow Chains for Alpine Driving?

As a true Swiss resident, I make it a point to mount winter tires in October and summer tires at the end of April. I also carry snow chains just in case, though I have only used them once, on December 31, 2008, when heavy snowfall necessitated cancelling a trip.

When Do You Need Snow Chains?

It is advisable to have chains available in winter, especially if you plan to drive in the Alps. While it would be absurd to have snow chains when the air temperature is 80°F in mid-July, the reality is that the necessity of chains depends on the specific conditions and your personal preferences.

Legal Requirements and Practical Advice

Legally, in some areas of the Alps, snow chains or winter tires are required for certain periods of the year, but not all. In my region, this period is from the start of November to the end of March. Given the vast and varied nature of the Alps, it is important to be prepared. As a local, having winter tires ensures legal compliance almost all the time and does much to mitigate the frustration of fitting snow chains.

While snow chains can be a hassle to put on, especially if you are not accustomed to the process, lack of preparation can result in personal injury or accidents. Either stopping to mount the chains in inconvenient spots or delaying until it's too late can lead to dangerous situations.

Proactive Measures

As a visitor to the mountains, always ensure your rental car has winter tires and confirm this with the rental car agency. Additionally, if you decide to purchase snow chains, make sure to practice mounting them before you need to use them in a real situation. Warm, waterproof clothing, including work gloves, and a head torch can greatly assist in the process. In most cases, snow chains are unnecessary on nice, dry days.

Alternative Solutions

For reliable mountain driving, solid, chunky off-road tires can work effectively in snow and similar conditions. I personally do not use chains, but my tires handle well on the snow and other off-road terrains. Fortunately, the police in the area, who patrol to prevent people from getting stuck in snow passes, often just wave us by.

Conclusion

While snow chains may seem like a tedious necessity, the key is to be prepared. With the right tires, some practical advice, and a bit of caution, you can safely navigate the challenges of mountain driving in the Alps.