Montana Winters: Is This The Most Important Thing You Need To Survive?

Now that we are seeing snow in the mountains, it's just a matter of time before we see snow on the streets.

READ MORE: Where does MT rank when it comes to most brutal winters?

Oh sure, we've had a couple of days of a little bit of snow, but I'm talking about the first real snowfall.  You know the kind that everyone suddenly forgets how to drive in winter conditions and the ditches are lined up with vehicles that have gone off the road.  The kind of weather that when you call for a tow, they tell you it's going to be a few hours because they're backed up.

Yeah, those days are on the way and they're going to be here sooner, rather than later.

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Each year, newbies experiencing their first "Montana Winter" get all excited and go out and buy all the gear: the parka and the matching boots, the winter gloves, and the matching hat. It's important to look good in the winter as well, right?

However, there is much more to being prepared for winter than "looking the part".

Before we reveal what I think is the most important item for winter in Montana, here's a list of vehicles great for getting around in winter in Montana.

What's the most important thing to have for winter in Montana?

Having spent winters in Montana, North Dakota, and Canada, I can tell you that you're going to want to have the proper tires for getting around this winter.

Here in Montana, studded tires are allowed up until the end of May, and believe it or not, they make a difference. While studded tires don't eliminate the risk of winter driving hazards, with the tires, some defense driving, and a little common sense, you will certainly better your odds.

I should warn you, that most tire shops are booked out for a few weeks.  So, if you are thinking about shopping for winter tires, call around, and be prepared to wait for an appointment.