Are you moving to a cold climate? As the weather conditions are becoming harsh in the warm climates, many are starting to move to areas with colder climates to avoid the heat. New economic opportunities and cheaper living costs are also the reason behind these decisions. However, for people who like sunny weather, this is not an easy move to make. If you’re one of them, it will take some time for you to adjust to the lack of sunshine and an abundance of snow. Still, it does not necessarily have to be a change for the worse.
What to Expect When Moving to a Cold Climate
There are going to be some changes in your life once you move to a colder climate, but with the right preparation, it will go smoothly. It’s presumed that if you’re moving from sunny weather, you will not have a lot of winter clothing, which will reduce the number of boxes to pack and carry. But buying new clothes can undoubtedly affect your budget once you arrive.
This means that buying proper jackets, boots, and sweaters and learning to layer is an absolute necessity. It’s better to have a few slightly warmer layers than one very warm because more layers are better insulation for your body. Snow boots are a must, so this is where you need to set the fashion aside and opt for warmth instead. Your boots need to be insulated and waterproof, with rubber soles to protect them from salt.
The same goes for your linen. Light sheets are not an option here, so get some quality warm bed sheets, like flannel. Cars should also be adapted to the freezing weather, which means having winter tires, antifreeze and a shovel for snow.
Finally, you will also need acclimation. You need to spend as much time as possible outdoors because your body will acclimate easier. That way, you will adjust to cool air and develop resistance much faster than if you stay indoors all the time.
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How to Prepare for Places with Long Winters
Even though replacing the sunny days for colder weather can be stressful, there are certain steps to take to make the adjustment easier.
If you have a pet, teach it to get entertained indoors, because long walks may not be possible or even healthy for it. Also, just as you need new clothing, your dog might need a waterproof coat, even though it has its natural one.
It’s also important to learn how to drive in the snow. You can practice in an empty parking lot until you get an idea of how to keep the vehicle stable when your back tires lose traction on ice. A four-wheel-drive car may be an excellent option here. If there is no garage available, consider arranging covered parking that will save you some shoveling and scraping snow.
You Need to Check Your Insulation and Inspect the Fireplace
To keep the heat in, you will have to ensure that the windows are double paneled and that the walls and attic are properly insulated. The doors should be sealed and the pipes in the basement insulated.
Make sure the heating is on by contacting the heating company in advance to let them know you’re coming. You will no longer be able to leave the doors or windows open as much as you may have been used to.
If you’re lucky to have a fireplace in your new home, make sure that the chimney is swept and checked for cracks each year to maintain proper ventilation. And make sure the furnace works properly, and the filter is replaced.
You should also consider having natural light in your home. The lack of sunshine is known to make people blue and depressed. So, check if your home has large windows or at least find a spot where the rays of the sun break through and place your rocking chair there.
Prepare for Cold Winter Adventures
It may not seem so at first, but there is a variety of things to do in this weather. We advise you to avoid spending time indoors because since you can get depressed. Instead, you can go outside and try to catch that little sunshine available or engage in some sports, like cross country skiing or skating.
Share a Story Around a Fireplace
Winter season definitely reduces the number of entertainment options. So, you have to be creative. What can top the sound of crackling wood in the fireplace and the smell of burnt logs? This can make colder environments incredibly romantic and cozy. And what better to do in these nights next to a fireplace than to share stories? Let your imagination run wild. Remember some events from your past, some family members and jokes. Invite people to your home and visit them in their homes. Set your mobile phones aside and engage in live communication with your neighbors, friends, and family members.
