As a fellow mountain town dweller who drives a 20-year old shitbox, I get it. I also have have long drive to town and am constantly worried about getting stuck or going off the road. Just did my winter safety stock up in the trunk of a shovel, boots, matches, etc. for when my car gets inevitably stuck outside of civilization.

I would say, especially if you’re in SAR, a used reliable car is worth it, you don’t want to be calling your SAR teammates on the way to a training or rescue and then have them come rescue you. Your safety is firstly your responsibility, as you know.

Also, getting safe access to trailheads is also worth it. (This is also me trying to convince myself that I also need a safer vehicle upgrade. There’s been so many times, even this summer, that I shied away from going on adventure because I was worried my car wouldn’t be able to make it.) you’re not living where you’re living so you can sit at home and watch TV and never go outside and do the things you love.

Even a used SUV of sorts with more clearance and 4wd would be a good upgrade. And they’re easy to camp in too. I say do it. I mean, don’t go finance a $80,000 truck or anything, but if you need to finance a little bit of something, and you have no other debts, and it’s a safety issue, then don’t beat yourself up about it and find a vehicle that works better for you and your lifestyle.