When winter camping season arrives, we often get asked, "Is it okay to go on snowy roads?"
A trip with a roof tent heading towards a snowy white landscape is something special. But what you really need to be careful about is your "feet," that is, the choice of tires and equipment.
This time, in addition to answering the question, "How far can you go on winter roads with mud tires (M/T) or tires labeled M/S?", we will also introduce recovery techniques in case of an emergency .
■ M/S does not mean "OK for snowy roads." In fact, you should be careful.
When it comes to SUVs or 4WDs with roof tents, we often hear people say, "It feels like I can go anywhere."
However, the M/S (Mud & Snow) designation simply means "suitable for mud and shallow snow."
Even with this notation, real snowy roads and ice are a whole other level .
The difference in performance compared to studless tires is particularly clear on icy or frozen mountain roads .
To be honest, I don't recommend just relying on the M/S notation.
■ Are mud tires (M/T) strong against snow? It depends on the location and conditions.
The Ligress car also has M/T tires and is driven all over the place all year round.
On fresh snow or packed snow, the block pattern grips firmly and is surprisingly stable.
There are many times when I feel like, "This snowy road isn't so bad after all."
However, the problem is when the temperature drops.
The situation changes dramatically, especially from evening to morning, when the roads start to freeze.
As soon as even a small amount of ice begins to form, the tires immediately lose grip and the car does not slow down even when braking.
It is particularly dangerous going downhill, and the moment you start skidding and realize "this isn't going to stop" can be truly nerve-wracking.
With only M/T tires, there is a clear distinction between "places you can go" and "places you shouldn't go."
If you miss that line, you will face unexpected risks.
■ The quality of snowy roads in New Zealand and Japan is completely different
"Apparently in New Zealand they drive on snowy roads with just mud tires."
I've heard stories like this before. In fact, it's not uncommon to see cars with all-terrain or mud tires around the ski resorts on the South Island.
However, this is a story that is only possible in New Zealand.
In fact, the temperature doesn't drop that much in New Zealand.
For example, even when it snows around Queenstown, the temperature rarely drops below freezing and the snow quickly melts during the day.
The roads are not frozen solid like in Japan, and only a slush-like layer of snow remains.
The reality is that because the road surface is less likely to freeze, mud tires are the only option.
On the other hand, Japan's winter mountains are like a different world.
Especially the mountain passes in Nagano, Niigata, and Hokkaido.
The temperature drops suddenly before dawn and after sunset, and the roads become hard and icy.
A world of ice that never melts spreads out from morning to night.
If you were to drive into this environment with only mud tires...you wouldn't be able to stop, you wouldn't be able to turn, and in the worst case scenario, you might not be able to get back.
Unfortunately, the assumption that "it's fine in New Zealand, so it should be fine in Japan" is not valid.
I think it's really important in the winter field to choose equipment that suits each area.
■ Here's how to prepare for winter in a roof tent car.
This is what we actually do to get there safely.
✅ Change to studless tires ✅ Always carry chains. Have the courage to put them on without hesitation ✅ Adjust the tire pressure according to the conditions → Just like off-roading, the basic rule is to lower the tire pressure in deep snow or on rough roads to increase grip . However, if you lower it too much, it can be dangerous on paved roads, so adjust it according to the situation.
■ What if you get stuck? Recovery products can save your life
Getting stuck on snowy roads can happen to anyone.
In such cases, a recovery board (sand ladder) is a reliable ally.
When combined with a shovel, it allows for a quick escape, making it a must-have piece of gear for winter travel.
✅Recovery board ✅Shovel (preferably a snow shovel)
✅Sling and tow rope <br data-end="1393" data-start="1390">With these three items, you will be able to deal with any emergency without panicking.
■ Because the fun begins "once you arrive at your destination."
Winter camping is the best.
However, if you underestimate the risks along the way, you won't get there.
We believe that the most important thing is to travel safely, especially when enjoying the extraordinary experience of a roof tent.
There are certainly places you can go to with M/S markings and mud tires.
But be aware that there are conditions and risks involved.
Let's start preparing for the journey again.