How to Prepare for Moving to a Cold Climate

Wonder How to Live in Cold Weather? Living in a Cold Climate State Brings Many Challenges

Relocating to a lovely mountain town with fairytale landscapes might sound dreamy. You’ll finally get a chance to enjoy all the outdoor activities like hiking, skiing, and fresh air. But if you are not used to freezing temperatures or you easily catch a cold with the first snowflake that falls, you need to adapt to these new conditions.

Relocating to another state can be challenging, especially if weather conditions there are far from what you are used to, but there are convenient ways to overcome “negative” factors and enjoy only the benefits of relocation.

Experiments Show That Our Body Can Adjust to Cold Climate

Not to rush into anything, but these experiments came to the conclusion that even our body cells can adjust to colder temperatures only if we train our bodies. We’re not saying that this is going to be pleasant, especially if you are not enjoying exposing yourself that much, but it is doable.

In a study from 1960. with the US Army, it was proven that men who spend over eight hours in a day in a 50°F chamber became habituated to cold after two weeks and even stopped shivering as they used to at the beginning of the experiment.

What Are the Benefits of Living in a Colder Area?

You might wonder what are the main reasons to move to a colder area? You can actually benefit from relocation in many aspects, especially when it comes to your physical health – you only have to learn how to make this transition easier. Apart from having more options for outdoor activities, you can drastically improve your health. These scientific facts might blow your mind. Colder weather can:

• Boost your brain function,
• Help you lower inflammation,
• Reduce allergies,
• Burn calories,
• Lower risk of diseases,
• Help you fight infections,
• Help you sleep better and overcome adjustment insomnia.

Ensure You Organize Your Move Appropriately and Prepare Everything in Advance

Now that you are aware of all of these benefits, you must wonder how to organize your move and handle this transition smoothly. It won’t be easy because these relocations usually require more preparation than the ones that end up somewhere warm. Don’t worry – more effort will bring you bigger success. Start by writing a substantial relocation to-do list. Having this list will reduce your anxiety about moving out. You can plan every step in advance and stay in control of your activities like professional cross country movers.

You’ll need to go through a few aspects of the process – getting suitable attire for you and your family members, including your pets, prepping your possessions for relocation, and taking care of your vehicle. Other responsibilities that you need to handle are changing your address and organizing important documents. If you want to get professional moving services, you should also consider planning this in advance to get a good deal and reduce relocation expenses.

You’ll Need to Pack or Buy Warm Clothes and Shoes

Let’s start with relocation essentials – what’s more important than learning how to pack clothes, especially chunky pieces that will keep you warm and comfortable when the temperature drops. The only negative thing about this is that these things tend to take a lot of space both in suitcases and inside of your closet.

This is why you should use some creative storage ideas, even during the relocation process. There is nothing better than reducing the size of these clothing pieces by using vacuum bags. They are a great investment and can be very helpful, especially if you find it hard to decide what to get rid of and what to keep when relocating. Also, consider packing shoes that will keep you warm and ensure they aren’t slippery, especially those you wear on a moving day. You don’t want to risk getting injured if you are relocating in the winter months.

Ensure Your Vehicle Is Prepared for Harsh Weather as Well

Apart from taking care of yourself and your well-being, don’t forget to winterize your vehicle and get the right gear. After all, you are going to need it more than ever, so you mustn’t take it for granted. Any kind of risk is unacceptable, this is why one part of your relocation budget must go on the following preparations:

• Install winter wires,
• Do a maintenance check-up,
• Change wiper blades to winter blades,
• Ensure your windshield washer reservoir is full,
• Prepare an emergency survival kit,
• Keep a gas tank topped up.

It Is Essential to Winterize Your New Home

If you are curious about things to do after relocation, let’s get one thing straight. If you are relocating to a new home, hopefully, you have already followed some essential house-hunting tips because this can save you a lot of time after a relocation. If your home was in good condition when you bought it or rented it, you’d probably have to do just a little check-up to ensure everything is prepared for colder temperatures. No matter the case, you should:

• Check the gutters – clean them and install gutter guards to ensure the attic is properly insulated,
• Seal the cracks – if you notice some cracks, ensure to seal them because they can cool down your home,
• Protect the pipes – Insulate those that are susceptible to freezing,
• Check your heating – Service furnaces, boilers, and chimneys at least once a year,
• Test smoke detectors (installing carbon monoxide detectors should be considered as well),
• Clear driveways and sidewalks of ice, you could easily slip and break a leg or injure yourself.

Give Your Children Some Time Needed to Adapt

If you’re relocating with children, you have to be extremely careful when it comes to their health, no matter if you’re relocating with a newborn or a teenager. If they are used to warmer conditions, this can be a real shock for them, so they’ll probably need some time to adapt to all the changes.

To overcome potential issues, layer their clothes when dressing them and always make sure their neck, hands, and head are covered. Check them frequently if they are playing outside and ensure their clothes aren’t wet. Remind them not to play or sled in the streets because this can be dangerous.

Help Them Warm Up – Hot Chocolate Will Become Their Favorite Drink

If they are snowboarding or participating in some winter activities, always ensure they wear helmets and have quality equipment. Also, try to keep them as hydrated as possible because these conditions might cause them to lose more water than usual – through their breath.

Offer them warm drinks, hot chocolate, teas, and soups whenever you get a chance. Also, don’t forget to use sunscreens – it’s not unusual that people often get sunburned when sunlight reflects off the snow.

Be Easy on Your Pets – They Also Have to Adapt to Winter Conditions

If you’re relocating with pets, you’ll also have to consider some winterizing tips that will improve their health and well-being in these harsh conditions. The first rule – with freezing temperatures, you should let your cat or dog inside, at least in the garage.

While doing this, you should be careful – drastic changes from warm to cold when letting them inside and out might increase the risk of some infectious diseases. Ensure their outdoor shelter is dry and well-isolated. Also, be careful when starting your car engine – cats like to hide under the car if they find this place warm enough.

Coats and Jackets for Pets Are More Than Welcome

Keep an eye on their water as well, change it frequently, and don’t let it freeze. Pet stores sell heating bowls, which can be very helpful, but they also sell some chic jackets. Consider getting some stuff like cozy sweaters, jackets, or even shoes, to keep them warm when they are outside. Also, be considerate about their nutrition – add 10 to 15 percent more calories to their diet so they can generate energy to ward off the cold.

Best Cold States to Live in if You Consider Moving to a Cold Climate

Now that you know all the relocation hacks and common relocation mistakes you want to avoid, it’s time to decide where to live. If you still haven’t made up your mind, these amazing states might be good options for you and your family. Although winters here might be tough, you’ll experience many advantages of living here and definitely won’t regret your relocation.

Alaska Might Be One of the Best Places

If you don’t mind long winters, there is no better option than Alaska. This unique and charming destination offers wild nature, breathtaking landscapes, and plenty of options for outdoor activities. This state also ranks as the most tax-friendly state for retirees, so it might be perfect if you’re relocating on a budget. According to Niche’s reviews, some of the best places in Alaska include South Addition, Rogers Park, and Airport Heights.

Iowa Is Another Interesting Location

Iowa is one of the best states when it comes to healthcare, infrastructure development, education, and business opportunities. It is also a budget-friendly option, judging by the cost of living. It is very safe, with low crime rates, a vibrant art scene, and amazing food. The cold months begin with November and end with March, when the temperature often gets below 41°F.

Montana Is Also Attractive for Adventurous Folks

Living in Montana can be an interesting option if you have an adventurous spirit and enjoy various sports and snow activities. Montana’s Rocky Mountain Front Range offers plenty of options for skiing, hiking, and mountain biking. The close proximity of Yellowstone and Glacier National parks might be a good reason for a weekend getaway. The cost of living in this area is considered relatively affordable, so that’s another reason – what more could you ask for? Check out this video with more things to do around this extraordinary place.

Now That You Know How to Adjust to Cold Weather, You’re Ready for a New Life Chapter

Now that you know how to acclimate to cold weather, you can have a completely stress-free cross-country moving to your dream destination. If you want to ensure you have an efficient move, you can always hire professional cross country movers for assistance – with their convenient services, all of your stuff can be relocated to your new home in a short time. The only thing left is to plan your favorite cold-weather activities and make some priceless memories with your loved ones. Snow angels must be included.