Canadian Winter Checklist: What You Need and Where to Get It

By Remitbee - Oct 26, 2020

Canadian winters are no joke. The further north you go, the harsher the winters get. As a newcomer, you may have to do some preparations for your first winter season.

In this article, we’ll cover what you need in terms of clothing, snow equipment, and other necessities for winter.

Clothing for Winter

In order to stay warm and comfortable during the winter season, you’ll have to dress the part. Let’s talk about some different dressing tips that will help you do exactly that.

Layered Clothing

The most important principle of dressing for the cold is layering. It will be cold outside but toasty indoors, so you have to dress accordingly.

Wearing multiple layers of clothing like long underwear, sweaters and coats will help keep you comfortable no matter what you’re doing. Water-resistant outerwear is definitely a plus.

Any local clothing stores will have what you need. Walmart and Amazon both carry wide ranges of winter clothing at reasonable rates. ### Socks and Boots Investing in the proper socks and boots is very important for the winter months in Canada.

When it comes to socks, you’ll want to go with thicker options that retain heat. Cabin socks are preferred by many. A quick search for “winter socks” on Amazon will bring up many other options.

Boots must be sturdy, water-proof, and have great tread on the soles. You want to choose an option that won’t be ruined by stepping in slushy snow and won’t let your socks get wet. You’ll also want an option that will prevent you from slipping on ice.

Scarves, Hats, and Gloves

Scarves, hats, and gloves are essential for any outdoor activities. There is so much variety among these three types of gear, so which ones you choose will come down to preference.

Snow Equipment for Winter

Snow is almost inevitable when you live in Canada, so you’ll have to learn to live through it

Snow Removal

If you’ve never lived in a place where it snows, then you’ve probably never thought of waking up a half-hour early to go out and clear your driveway so that you can get your car out and go to work.

The old school way to do this is with a nice and sturdy snow shovel. If you are willing to invest a little bit more, a snowblower can make this task so much easier.

Salt is also useful. You can through this down on your driveway or sidewalk to help avoid slipping on ice.

All of these things can be found at Home Depot. A lot of their snow removal supplies are eligible for free shipping with a minimum order of $49. It’s wise to stock up on these supplies before it starts to snow!

Ice Scraper

If your car is not garaged, it will accumulate ice and snow. At home, this may not be an issue, but it might be an issue at work.

An ice scraper is a small portable tool that you use to clean off your windshield so you can see out to drive. It is a simple tool but absolutely a winter necessity.

Additional Winter Necessities

In addition to clothes and equipment, there are a few other things to consider to keep you safe and comfortable during the cold, snowy season.

Hot Hands

Going out in the cold can be extremely uncomfortable in your hands and feet. Hot Hands are disposable packets that are used to warm up your hands and feet for many hours at a time.

They are small and easy to use. All you’ve got to do is give them a shake and place them in your gloves or shoes.

Hot Hands are perfect for shoveling your driveway, hunting, or participating in any other outdoor activity.

Non-Perishable Food Items

Snowstorms can leave you homebound, especially if you’re not comfortable driving in the ice or snow.

It is important to stock up on non-perishable items that you can rely on if there’s no way to get to the store for an extended period of time.

Canned goods that can be served cold if necessary are a good option.

Final Thoughts As the days grow shorter and the nights grow colder, we hope you are prepared for the winter season.

With this winter checklist, you’re off to a good start!