I would consider making travel in extreme weather a scaling skill challenge using inspiration from 4e rules. As a part of the consequences for failing rolls, you can inflict levels of exhaustion as the party travels. Carrying the gear appropriate for the locale can provide advantage on their chosen rolls when trying to make the skill challenge.
On the upside, it rewards preparation on the players part, as the GM it gives you a replacement for random encounters, and lets the players feel engaged with their characters by taking advantage of their skill proficiencies.
On the upside, it rewards preparation on the players part, as the GM it gives you a replacement for random encounters, and lets the players feel engaged with their characters by taking advantage of their skill proficiencies.
