Millions of Americans across the country are still dealing with the after-effects of the latest winter storm. Here in the midwest, we had nearly a foot of snow dumped on us and experienced subzero temperatures registering over -30° below with windchill. As you can imagine, I didn’t leave my house for several days. And when I finally did, it was still amid brutal conditions. The air stung my bare skin and my body temperature dropped in minutes. If you live in an area that deals with extreme weather like this, then you understand why you should never skimp on these 7 winter items.
1. High-Quality Winter Clothing
Warm clothing will be one of your primary means of keeping winter weather at bay. As you will quickly learn, saving a few bucks on lower-quality items isn’t worth your health or physical safety.
First off, you need to have a winter jacket that is well-insulated and water-resistant. The same goes for winter boots which should also have proper traction to handle icy conditions. You will also need well-made hats, scarves, neck warmers, and gloves to protect exposed areas. Additionally, you may consider thermal socks if you have poor circulation or will be outside for extended periods.
2. Winter Tires
When road conditions deteriorate, the state of your tires could mean the difference between life and death. The accumulation of ice and snow leads to slick roads and serious accidents. Therefore, it’s worth investing in snow tires that have better traction, especially if you have to travel in the winter months. You could also look into tire chains if you have to deal with large hills or frequently drive through remote areas where plow trucks rarely go.
3. Emergency Car Kit
Most people from colder climates already keep an ice scraper, snow brush, antifreeze, and windshield wiper fluid in their car during the winter months. But if you live in a place that is prone to snowstorms, it’s wise to keep an emergency kit in your vehicle in case you get stranded.
This should include winter items like blankets, a flashlight, non-perishable snacks, water, ice melt, kitty litter, and a small shovel. Speaking from experience, a good emergency kit will get out of difficult situations, especially if help is not easily accessible.
4. Battery Jump Starter
While it takes a toll on your health, extreme temperatures can wreak havoc on your engine and your battery as well. Even new vehicles have trouble starting in the extreme cold. So, you can pick up a portable battery jump starter to ensure that you will never have to worry about being stranded because of a dead battery.
5. Snow Removal Equipment
When the snow piles up, there’s only one way out. Plow trucks may clear the main roads, but you will have to dig yourself and your car out of your home or parking lot. When the time comes, make sure you have quality equipment to get the job done. You don’t want to deal with shovels breaking or equipment failures because you skimped out for a “good deal.”
6. Heated Blankets and Seat Warmers
Having heated accessories can make your winter drives more bearable. Why not bypass the shivering as you wait for it to warm up by opting for seat warmers or keeping heated blankets in your car? They will make your journey much more comfortable and the winter a little less miserable.
7. Moisturizing Skin Care
People tend to focus on exterior conditions and often forget how harsh cold weather can be on your skin. If you have ever experienced wind chill, you know how painful it can be. To prevent dryness, cracking, or chapping, pick up quality moisturizers and lip balms to keep your skin looking and feeling healthy all winter long.
Be Prepared for Anything
Remember, preparing your personal attire, vehicle, and living spaces for winter is crucial for a safe and comfortable season. Stay warm and be well-prepared!
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Jenny Smedra is an avid world traveler, ESL teacher, former archaeologist, and freelance writer. Choosing a life abroad had strengthened her commitment to finding ways to bring people together across language and cultural barriers. While most of her time is dedicated to either working with children, she also enjoys good friends, good food, and new adventures.