Preparing for Canadian Winter: A Newcomer's Survival Guide

What to Expect from Canadian Winter

If you are coming from a tropical or subtropical climate, your first Canadian winter will be one of the most significant adjustments you face. For many newcomers to Canada, this is the first time they experience snow, freezing temperatures, and short winter days. The good news is that with the right preparation, winter in Canada is not just manageable but can actually be enjoyable.

Canada is a vast country, and winter varies dramatically by region:

• Vancouver and Victoria (BC coast): Mild winters with temperatures typically between 2 and 8 degrees Celsius. Rain is far more common than snow. Snow does fall occasionally but rarely stays long.
• Interior BC (Kelowna, Kamloops): Colder, with more snow and temperatures that can drop to -10 to -20 degrees Celsius.
• Prairies (Calgary, Edmonton, Winnipeg, Regina): Very cold, long winters. Temperatures regularly reach -20 to -40 degrees Celsius with wind chill. Snow stays on the ground from November to March or April.
• Ontario (Toronto, Ottawa): Cold winters with regular snow. Ottawa is one of the coldest national capitals in the world, with temperatures reaching -25 to -35 degrees Celsius with wind chill.
• Atlantic Canada (Halifax, Saint John): Cold and snowy, with nor'easter storms that can dump heavy snow.

The Layering System: How Canadians Stay Warm

Why Layering Works

The most important thing to understand about dressing for Canadian winter is the layering system. Instead of wearing one very thick coat, you wear multiple lighter layers that trap warm air between them. This approach is warmer, more versatile, and lets you adjust as you move between heated buildings and cold outdoor air.

The Three Layers

1. Base Layer (next to your skin)

The base layer wicks moisture away from your body. When you sweat (even a little) in winter, that moisture will make you feel very cold if it stays on your skin. Choose base layers made of merino wool or synthetic materials (polyester, polypropylene). Avoid cotton as a base layer because it absorbs moisture and stays wet.

Budget options: Walmart sells affordable polyester thermal tops and bottoms for $15 to $25 per piece.

2. Insulating Layer (middle)

The insulating layer traps warm air. Fleece jackets, wool sweaters, and down or synthetic puffer vests work well as insulating layers. This is the layer that provides most of your warmth.

Budget options: Costco sells excellent fleece jackets and lightweight puffer jackets for $20 to $40. Thrift stores (Value Village, Salvation Army) often have warm fleece and wool sweaters for $5 to $15.

3. Outer Layer (shell)

The outer layer protects you from wind, rain, and snow. In Vancouver, you need a waterproof rain jacket more than a heavy winter parka. In colder regions, you need a windproof and insulated winter jacket. Look for a jacket that is water-resistant, windproof, and has a hood.

Essential Winter Gear

What You Need

Item	Why You Need It	Budget Price	Where to Buy
Winter jacket or rain jacket	Protection from cold, wind, rain, snow	$50 to $150	Costco, Walmart, MEC, thrift stores
Waterproof boots	Keeps feet warm and dry in snow and rain	$40 to $100	Walmart, Mark's, Canadian Tire
Warm hat (toque)	You lose significant heat through your head	$5 to $15	Dollar stores, Walmart, Costco
Insulated gloves or mittens	Protects hands from cold and frostbite	$10 to $30	Costco, Walmart, Canadian Tire
Scarf or neck warmer	Protects neck and face from wind	$5 to $15	Dollar stores, Walmart, thrift stores
Thermal base layers	Wicks moisture, keeps you warm under clothes	$15 to $25 per piece	Walmart, Costco, Mark's
Warm socks (wool blend)	Cold feet make everything miserable	$10 for a 3-pack	Costco, Walmart

Budget Shopping for Winter Gear

• Costco: Excellent quality winter jackets ($50 to $100), boots, gloves, and thermal layers at low prices. Their Paradox and 32 Degrees brands are popular for affordable base layers.
• Walmart: The most affordable option for basic winter gear. A full winter outfit (jacket, boots, hat, gloves, thermals) can cost under $150.
• Thrift stores: Value Village, Salvation Army, and other thrift stores often have winter jackets and boots in good condition for $10 to $30. Check early in the fall before the best items are picked over.
• Facebook Marketplace and Buy Nothing groups: Search for free or cheap winter clothing. Many Canadians give away outgrown children's winter gear.
• Settlement agency clothing programs: Some settlement agencies like ISSofBC and MOSAIC can connect newcomers with donated winter clothing. Ask your settlement worker.

Driving in Winter

Winter Tires in BC

In British Columbia, winter tires or chains are legally required on most highways from October 1 to March 31 (and until April 30 on some mountain passes). Tires must have the mountain/snowflake symbol (3PMSF) or the M+S (mud and snow) designation with at least 3.5 mm of tread depth.

Driving on a designated highway without proper winter tires or chains can result in a fine of $121 and your vehicle may be turned back. Check the BC government winter tire requirements for specific routes and regulations.

Winter Driving Tips

1. Slow down: Speed limits are for ideal conditions. In snow or ice, drive well below the posted limit.
2. Increase following distance: Leave at least 4 to 6 seconds between you and the car ahead. It takes much longer to stop on slippery roads.
3. Brake gently: Avoid slamming the brakes. If your vehicle has anti-lock brakes (ABS), press firmly and let the system work.
4. Clear all snow and ice from your vehicle: It is illegal and dangerous to drive with snow covering your windows, mirrors, lights, or roof.
5. Keep an emergency kit in your car: Include a blanket, flashlight, first aid kit, jumper cables, a small shovel, ice scraper, bottled water, and non-perishable snacks.
6. Check road conditions: Visit DriveBC.ca before highway trips for real-time road conditions, closures, and webcams.

Heating Your Home

Understanding Heating Costs

Heating is a significant expense during Canadian winters. In BC, most homes are heated with natural gas (FortisBC) or electricity (BC Hydro). Some older homes use oil or electric baseboard heaters. Your heating costs depend on the size of your home, the age and insulation of the building, the type of heating system, and how cold the winter is.

Typical winter heating costs in Metro Vancouver range from $80 to $200 per month for a one-bedroom apartment and $150 to $350 per month for a house. In colder regions like Calgary or Winnipeg, heating costs are higher.

Saving on Heating

• Set your thermostat to 20 to 21 degrees Celsius during the day and 17 to 18 degrees at night
• Use a programmable or smart thermostat to reduce heating when you are away
• Close curtains at night to insulate windows; open them during the day to let in solar heat
• Do not block heating vents with furniture
• Wear warm clothing indoors (sweater and warm socks) instead of turning up the heat
• Apply for the BC Hydro Customer Assistance Program if your income is low. This provides a discount on your electricity bill.

Health Risks in Winter

Frostbite

Frostbite occurs when skin and underlying tissue freeze due to cold exposure. It most commonly affects fingers, toes, nose, ears, cheeks, and chin. Early signs include numbness, tingling, and skin that looks pale, waxy, or white.

Frostbite can begin within minutes when wind chill temperatures drop below -27 degrees Celsius. In Vancouver, frostbite is rare due to the mild winters, but it is a serious risk in colder parts of Canada.

If you suspect frostbite, get indoors immediately. Do not rub the affected area. Warm the affected body part gradually with lukewarm (not hot) water. Seek medical attention.

Hypothermia

Hypothermia occurs when your body temperature drops below 35 degrees Celsius. It can happen even at relatively mild temperatures (above freezing) if you are wet, exposed to wind, or not dressed warmly enough. Symptoms include shivering, confusion, slurred speech, drowsiness, and loss of coordination.

Hypothermia is a medical emergency. Call 9-1-1 if someone shows signs of severe hypothermia. While waiting for help, move the person indoors, remove wet clothing, and wrap them in blankets. For more on healthcare, read our guide to healthcare in BC.

Slips and Falls

Icy sidewalks and parking lots are a major cause of injuries in winter. Walk carefully, wear boots with good traction (look for rubber soles with deep treads), take short steps, and avoid rushing. If you are not used to walking on ice, practice in a safe area first.

Seasonal Depression (Seasonal Affective Disorder)

What Is SAD?

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that occurs during the fall and winter months when daylight hours are reduced. In Vancouver, the shortest day of the year (December 21) has only about 8 hours of daylight, compared to 16 hours in summer. For newcomers from equatorial regions, this dramatic change in daylight can be especially challenging.

Symptoms of SAD include persistent low mood, loss of interest in activities, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, changes in appetite, and sleeping more than usual.

How to Manage Seasonal Depression

• Get outside during daylight hours: Even on cloudy days, natural light helps regulate your mood. Walk during your lunch break.
• Exercise regularly: Physical activity is one of the most effective treatments for mild to moderate depression. Many community centres offer affordable fitness programs. Check your local city recreation guide.
• Stay socially connected: Isolation worsens depression. Join community groups, attend settlement agency events, or connect with others from your cultural community.
• Consider a light therapy lamp: A 10,000-lux light therapy box used for 20 to 30 minutes each morning can help. Available at pharmacies and online for $40 to $80.
• Seek professional help: If your low mood persists for more than two weeks or interferes with daily life, talk to a doctor. The BounceBack program (1-866-639-0522) offers free mental health support. Call 310-6789 (no area code needed) for the BC Mental Health Support Line.

Winter Activities to Embrace

Make the Most of Winter

Instead of hiding indoors for five months, try embracing winter activities. Many newcomers discover they actually enjoy the season once they are properly dressed and engaged in activities.

• Skating: Free outdoor skating rinks open in many cities during winter. In Vancouver, the Robson Square ice rink is free (skate rentals available for a small fee). Check your local city website for rink locations and schedules.
• Skiing and snowboarding: Metro Vancouver has three local mountains: Grouse Mountain, Cypress Mountain, and Mount Seymour. Lift tickets range from $50 to $80 for a day. Many offer learn-to-ski packages for beginners.
• Snowshoeing: An easy and affordable winter activity. Strap on snowshoes and hike through snowy trails. Rentals are available at local mountains and outdoor stores for $10 to $20.
• Winter hiking: Many trails in Metro Vancouver are accessible year-round. The seawall, Pacific Spirit Park, and many local parks are beautiful in winter. Wear waterproof boots and layers.
• Community centre programs: Your local community centre offers swimming, fitness classes, drop-in sports, and other indoor activities at affordable rates. Check your city's parks and recreation website.

Winter Preparation Checklist

• Buy a warm, waterproof jacket and boots before November (or earlier for the best selection)
• Get a warm hat (toque), insulated gloves, and a scarf
• Buy thermal base layers (top and bottom)
• If you drive, check that your tires meet BC winter tire requirements
• Put an emergency kit in your car (blanket, flashlight, ice scraper, snacks, water)
• Learn how your home heating system works and how to adjust the thermostat
• Apply for the BC Hydro Customer Assistance Program if your income is low
• Ask your doctor about Vitamin D supplementation
• Download a weather app and check it daily (Environment Canada or The Weather Network)
• Find an indoor winter activity you enjoy (swimming, gym, community centre classes)
• Plan a winter outdoor activity to try (skating, snowshoeing, or winter hiking)

Winter Is Part of the Canadian Experience

Winter in Canada can feel daunting at first, especially if you have never experienced cold weather. But with the right clothing, preparation, and mindset, you will adapt. Millions of newcomers before you have made this transition successfully, and so will you. The key is to prepare early, dress in layers, stay active, and ask for help when you need it.

WelcomeAide is here to help you through every season of your settlement journey. Our AI Newcomer Navigator can answer questions about winter preparation, healthcare, housing, and anything else in your preferred language. Learn more about our mission, explore our programs, or read more newcomer guides on our blog. For financial planning, check our guide to RRSP, TFSA, and RESP accounts, and for getting around, see our Vancouver public transit guide.