How To Survive Your First Minnesota Winter In Style

Minnesota is truly one of the country's best states, and if you're coming from the South, the East Coast, or the West Coast, you will love all the culture, history, and how friendly the people are there. One thing you need to be ready for, however, is the brutal winters. Temperatures drop into the minuses routinely in the Gopher State, and the wind just makes things worse, so you need to know how to dress and arrange logistics for the temperature when you live there. Snow is also something you need to prepare for, especially if you're a driver. Let's take a look at how you can survive your first Minnesota winter in style.

Consider Switching Your Car

If you have a small car or a family sedan, it could be a good idea to start looking for a four-wheel crossover if you have the money. Getting used to snowy/icy roads will take time and will only be tougher if you're driving a smaller vehicle. A crossover will not only be more efficient in tough conditions, but it will also be safer, and won't be as likely to get stuck in the snow.

Wear Layers

If you have never been big on layers and you have never learned how to layer clothes properly, now is the time to learn. Layering is extremely important if you want to survive bitter colds. This is because air is one of the best insulators there is, and each space between the layers creates an additional barrier that will be filled with your body's heat. This is why wearing multiple layers is always better than just having one thick layer.

Invest in a Good Jacket

You still have to invest in a nice winter jacket, however. If you're looking for something luxurious yet warm, a Moncler jacket should be on your list. While they are branded as luxury jackets, they are a true snow gear brand and are made to resist harsh French Alp winters. So, they will not only look great but, but they will protect you from heavy winds and bitter colds too.

Don’t Forget Your Head and Extremities

One thing you have to know about the cold is that your hands, head, and feet will be much more vulnerable than your body. These areas have more difficulty retaining heat, so you will have to be extra careful.

Let’s start with your feet. Feet can freeze very quickly if they’re not protected, especially if they get wet, and you will get a lot of wet snow in Minnesota. So, you have to make sure that you invest in good boots with water protection. You also need to invest in some good, thick socks.

When it comes to the hands, mittens will be better than gloves. This is because they will give you some of that extra body heat. You can invest in gloves too, just make sure that they're made from a wind-resistant material, or your hands will freeze.

What you wear on your head will depend on how harsh the winds are for the day. The wind is what will get you freezing faster than anything, so you will need a good heavy scarf to protect you from wind gusts. You should also get a nice hat like a knitted toque, bomber hat, or bucket hat if you want to go extra stylish.

Get a Fireplace

If your home doesn't have a fireplace, you should consider getting one. You will learn to love staying inside once you get to the state, and nothing will make your home more comfortable during snowy winter nights than a nice wood fire. You can also go with electric or gas-powered fireplaces if you want. Not only will it give your home a sense of rustic charm, but it will allow you to cut your light bills.

Get Into Cocooning

Speaking of staying inside, you should start looking at ways to make your interior more inviting and fun to be in. Invest in plush fabrics and protect the interior from the cold with heavy curtains and a good heating system. Consider underfloor heating if you haven't already, and at least look into advanced ventilation and smart heating.

Learn How to Enjoy Winter Sports

You shouldn’t be scared of the winter, however. Once you get used to the temperatures, it can be a lot of fun and there are tons of winter activities that will make you appreciate winter even more. Some of the options include snowboarding, skating, and hockey. Winter is when the NHL season is in full swing too, so that would be a great time to go see your first hockey game live with your family.

Minnesota is a great place to live, and you will love it there once you get used to it. If you want to enjoy this coming winter there, follow our tips, and start asking questions to people already living in the state.