The winter season in Canada is a beautiful and cozy time, but it also comes with its own set of challenges, particularly for those new to the country. Surviving your first winter in the Great White North is its own badge of honor. However, immigrants and tourists (especially from warmer climates) may face some difficulties during the five long months of Canadian winter. Thankfully, we’ve collected a list of ten handy tips to make your first few Canadian winters safe and enjoyable.
# 1 How long does Canadian winter last?
Winter in Canada usually lasts from November to March, with temperatures varying by region. In Vancouver, temperatures average about 36°F (2°C), while in Quebec, average temperatures can reach as low as 6°F (-14°C).
Canadian winter contains all types of winter weather, like freezing rain, blizzards, light snow, and high winds, all of which can be dangerous under certain conditions. Frostbite and hypothermia are a threat that many Canadians experience, so always remember to keep your head, hands, and feet warm whenever you venture outside.
# 2 Take a first aid class.
The Canadian government recommends taking an introductory first-aid course for anyone unfamiliar with winter’s harsh conditions. If you are unfamiliar with the harsh weather of the Canadian winter, you’re at a higher risk of getting frostbite or hypothermia. Frostbite occurs when the body tissues freeze, like the toes, fingers, ears, or nose. Hypothermia occurs if you’re over-exposed to dangerously cold temperatures and you have a rapid drop in body temperature.
A first-aid class gives you helpful tools and knowledge to handle dangerous scenarios. Check in with Canadian Red Cross to find a local first aid class.
# 3 Buy your winter apparel in Canada.
Canadian residents know that one of the best tips for surviving Canadian winter is to buy your winter apparel locally. Any winter clothing made in Canada is designed explicitly for Canadian winter and is better equipped to withstand the lower temperatures. Do not buy your clothing abroad or from an online, foreign company because such clothing often cannot handle the harsh, cold temperatures. You should also consider buying boots with removable liners to keep your toes extra warm.
# 4 Get involved in winter activities.
Winter goes by much faster if you have an activity that you’re passionate about. Whether it’s snowboarding, snowshoeing, skiing, or playing hockey, you should try out every sport that interests you. Getting active, especially during the colder months, is very important for your physical and mental health. Make sure to follow all local regulations to ensure any frozen lakes or ponds are safe to skate.
# 5 Create a cozy, inside space.
The winter months are an opportunity to spruce up your house and do a little redecorating. You can create a cozy reading nook perfect for cuddling with pets or loved ones. Grab some houseplants, or treat yourself to a cozy, soft blanket. You can also replace lightbulbs with warmer ones that give off a sunny light and an inviting glow. Redesigning your favorite spaces in your home is a fun winter project that can uplift your mental health.
# 5 Don’t forget your vitamin D.
In the Northern Hemisphere, it can be difficult to get your necessary UV levels (ultraviolet rays of the sun) and vitamin D. Vitamin D is essential for bone and muscular health, so consider adding foods rich in vitamin D or taking a supplement during the winter, if your doctor says it’s okay.
Also, many experts recommend going outside first thing in the morning to catch some sun rays. Sun exposure early in the day is great for your sleep and mental health.
# 6 Watch a professional sports game in person.
Canadian winter is incomplete without a bit of hockey. Hockey and basketball are very popular in the winter, and Canada has plenty of regional and professional teams. Whether you live in Toronto and want to catch a Raptors game or are visiting Vancouver to see the Canucks, a sports game is a fun night out and shakes up your winter routine. If professional sports tickets are too pricey, check your community for college and amateur sporting events that are just as exciting and competitive.
# 7 Manage your money from inside your house.
If you need to send some money to friends or family abroad, you can do it from the comfort of your home. There’s no need to leave the cozy fireplace; instead, hop on the Western Union app or website to transfer money to friends and loved ones. From it, you can easily send money to over 200 countries and territories and conveniently track your money transfer. You can even send money directly into your friend’s mobile wallet1 or bank account, or they can pick it up at an in-person agent location. Most banking services are online too, so you almost never have to leave your home to pay bills, deposit money or make other financial transactions.
# 8 Go catch the Aurora Borealis.
Seeing the green hue of the Northern Lights is a once-in-a-lifetime type of experience. Consider taking a family vacation or grabbing friends to watch the colors dance across the sky. You can actually catch the Aurora Borealis from anywhere in Canada–if you’re lucky. However, the lights are known for being elusive, so it’s best to go to the Northwest Territories, where they’re most active.
# 9 Take an exercise class.
During the winter, it’s easy to curl up on the couch every night and watch Netflix. However, implementing a regular fitness routine is good for your body and mental health. Join a local gym or consider signing up for a fun fitness class. Try Zumba, kickboxing, karate, or anything in or out of your comfort zone to get your body moving. Ask a friend or family member to join you, so you can be social during your workout too.
#10 Contact Immigrant Services.
For any newcomers to Canada, it’s recommended to contact your province’s Immigrant Services Association to get help with the transition and get assistance with employment and language services. Check both local and country-wide services to see what programs are available to you.
1 Funds will be paid to receiver’s mWallet account provider for credit to account tied to receiver’s mobile number. Additional third-party charges may apply, including SMS and account over-limit and cash-out fees. Funds availability subject to terms and conditions of service. See Mobile Form for Restrictions.
