Driving Tips in the Snowy Mountains

If you want to skip the read, we have a reel that explains these tips: in brief: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DKgw9LES-EZ/?igsh=MXV5enVjbmc0bjhpYQ==

If you want the detailed guide, refer to our How to get to the Snowy Mountains from Sydney guide.

1. 4WD Car: It’s preferable to travel to the snowy region in a four-wheel drive (4WD) or all-wheel drive (AWD) vehicle. These provide better traction, making the winding and potentially icy roads much safer. While it’s not mandatory to carry snow chains in a 4WD or AWD, it’s still recommended.

We hired our Sixt from DiscoverCars, but there are plenty of other rental companies to choose from based on your location or any corporate discounts your employer might offer. If you’re a member of NRMA (around $30–$60/year), you can also get 10–20% off car rentals. Make sure to purchase rental insurance for alpine driving, since weather and road conditions can change quickly in this region.

2. Snow Pass: Most rental companies will ask whether you’re driving into the snowy region. If you are, they’ll add a “Snow Pass” to your booking, which is usually $20–$30 per day. This is crucial. If your vehicle gets damaged above the snow line and you didn’t opt for the snow pass, your insurance becomes void. Always make sure the snow pass is added to your rental if you’re heading into alpine areas.

3. Snow Chains: For non-4WD/AWD vehicles, it is legally mandatory to carry snow chains when driving in the snowy region. The fine for not carrying them is $330. Even for 4WD/AWD vehicles, it’s strongly recommended, as sudden weather changes can happen, and chains offer that extra grip when you need it most.

You can hire chains from towns like Jindabyne or Cooma. The staff will usually guide you on how to fit them. Only put them on when road signs instruct you to, or if traction is clearly reduced. Always use designated “Chain Bay” spots to fit and remove them; driving with chains on normal roads can damage the car, tyres, and the chains. If you’re driving a non-4WD or AWD vehicle, carrying snow chains in the Snowy Mountains is a legal requirement, with fines of up to $330 for non-compliance. Even if you have a 4WD or AWD, chains are strongly recommended as conditions can change quickly, and they provide essential traction when roads get icy.

You can rent chains in towns like Cooma or Jindabyne, and the staff will usually give you a quick demo on how to fit them. We hired ours from The Ski Co in Cooma, which had great prices. Boss Outdoor Sports in Jindabyne is another reliable option. Only use chains when road signs advise, or when traction is noticeably reduced. Always pull over at a designated “Chain Bay” to fit or remove them, as using chains on dry roads can damage your vehicle and the chains themselves.

4. Offline Navigation: You’ll pass through long stretches with little to no mobile coverage, so it’s smart to download your route maps in advance. We also suggest downloading your music playlists offline; network blackouts can happen, and the drive is much better with your favourite road trip tracks!

5. Early Start: The Snowy Mountains from Sydney are about a 5–6 hour drive, so starting early makes all the difference. We left at 5 AM, which gave us time to make a few scenic stops, grab food, and still reach the mountains by afternoon without feeling rushed.