Tips for adapting to Canada's climate

Tips for adapting to Canada's climateTips for adapting to Canada's climate

Canada is known for its sub-zero temperatures and heavy snowfall, but it is also known for its warm, beautiful spring days, sunny summers and colorful autumns that invite renewal.

Many immigrants new to the country or about to travel wonder how they will cope with the intense cold of the Great North, as they associate the Canadian climate with winter almost all year round, but this beautiful northern country has a varied climate, and just as it is important to protect themselves from the cold, it is also important to protect themselves from the sun and even from the nostalgia that autumn generates. 

Today I bring you this simple guide with tips on how to prepare well for the Canadian weather and enjoy all the seasons of this beautiful country to the fullest. I invite you to read with me to the end and share this content with anyone who might need it. Let's get started!

Practical tips for adapting to the Canadian climate

Canada is geographically huge and the climate varies greatly in each region and city. This country has four distinct seasons. I will begin by describing how to cope with the winter season.

Winter: from December to February
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  1. The first thing an immigrant should do before arriving in the country is to thoroughly investigate the climate of the province or territory where he/she will live. Some characteristics of the climate in different cities:
  • In Vancouver, winters are milder and rainier.
  • In Toronto, very cold winters can be experienced.
  • In cities such as Calgary or Winnipeg, winters are intensely cold, with temperatures that can drop to -30°C.

  1. Invest in quality winter clothing. In many provinces, the Canadian winter is extreme, so having the right clothing will make all the difference. To do this, it is important that you wear the following garments:
  • A cold resistant coat/jacket designed for sub-zero temperatures.
  • Waterproof winter boots, with good insulation and non-slip soles.
  • Indispensable accessories, such as hats, scarves, gloves and thermal socks. These are necessary to prevent extremities (fingers, earlobes, nasal apex) from freezing.

What if you didn't get all these clothes before arriving in the country? Don't worry, there are many stores here that offer excellent quality winter clothing and usually give discounts and promotions at the beginning of the season.

  1. Dress in layers. Do you know the layering technique ? In Canada, it is often applied, especially in winter. Layering consists of wearing several layers of clothing to keep you warm. Here's how many layers and what type of clothing to wear:
  • Base layer: consists of thermal clothing to retain heat.
  • Middle layer: consists of sweaters or sweatshirts for added insulation.
  • Outer layer: consists of waterproof or down jackets to protect against wind and snow.

Layering is also useful in other seasons. In spring and autumn, when the weather can change rapidly. By using this technique you will avoid feeling uncomfortable during the change of seasons.

4. Learn how to use the heating and insulation system. Unlike many countries in tropical South America and Northeast America, most homes, offices and transportation in Canada are equipped with heating systems. Therefore, visitors from warm countries should familiarize themselves well with the correct use of the thermostat, as they will know how to maintain a comfortable temperature inside the house and without exceeding electricity consumption. 

5. Please note that during the winter you should:

  • Seal windows and doors tightly to prevent heat leakage.
  • Use thick rugs or curtains to help insulate against the cold.
  • Take care of your body's well-being, as extreme cold can affect your health if you do not take precautions.
  • Drink plenty of fluids because, although it may not seem like it, the dry winter weather can dehydrate your skin and your body.
  • Protect your skin with moisturizers and lip balm to avoid dryness.
  • Avoid long exposures outdoors. If it is very cold, limit time outdoors and stay in warm places.

Spring: March to May 

Spring in Canada is beautiful, however, it brings associated problems such as allergies, insects and weather fluctuations. To protect yourself, the following is recommended:

  • Control allergies by closing windows and doors during high pollen count days and avoiding trips to wooded areas where flowering is most active. 
  • Air filters work very well at this time of year and should be changed regularly in the heating and air conditioning system. 
  • If you are allergic, keep your antihistamines prescribed by your doctor handy.
  • Use insect repellent when you are outdoors and wear cool clothing that covers you from bites. In addition, it is important to check your body and that of your pets, because if they have been walking in Canadian parks and forests, they may have ticks.
  • Here again, the layering technique is necessary, taking into account that Canada's climate is changeable.

Summer: June to August

Summer in Canada has the highest temperatures of the year, varying between 35 and 20 degrees, depending on each region. For example, Vancouver and Victoria are positioned as two of the warmest cities. 

During the Canadian summer it is important to protect yourself with:

  • High SPF sunscreen on all exposed areas of the skin, even on cloudy days.
  • Light, light-colored clothing that covers most of your skin. Wide hats and sunglasses.
  • Constant hydration, even if you do not feel thirsty. Consumption of fruits and vegetables with high water content, such as watermelons, cucumbers and oranges.
  • Avoid the hottest hours, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., but if this is not possible, then shade and shelter should be sought.
  • Maintain skin care with moisturizing creams and apply aloe vera gel in case of sunburn to soothe and heal the skin.

Fall: September to November

Autumn is a time of transition, color and natural beauty, but also of cold and rain. For this season, you should protect yourself with:

  • Clothing that protects you from the wind, such as hooded jackets and scarves to cover your neck and face. Wind can make the temperature feel colder, so layering will also work here.
  • An umbrella or waterproof rain jacket.
  • Keep well hydrated.
  • Avoid drafts and use thick carpets and curtains to keep warm.
  • Go for a walk and enjoy the autumn scenery to cope with homesickness or spend time with friends and family who can accompany the moments of melancholy and loneliness.

Every season has its charm

Canada has something special to offer in every season, immigrants, newcomers and visitors in general can take advantage of many seasonal activities, some of which are:

  • In winter: ice skating, winter sports such as skiing or snowboarding and enjoying winter festivals.
  • In spring: enjoy the blossoming of trees and shrubs and the beauty of its parks.
  • In summer: take advantage of outdoor activities, go camping, attend music festivals and enjoy typical food and food from other cultures.
  • In autumn: contemplate the colorful leaves and enjoy the cool weather during seasonal activities. 

Coping with the Canadian weather is part of the experience of living in this beautiful country. 

Settlement Immiland Services

Settlement is the settlement department of Immiland, a full service company for new immigrants to Canada. Our team accompanies and advises you every step of the way, before, during and once you have arrived in the country. We are familiar with our clients and users, since, in addition to English and French, we speak Spanish, so the interaction with Latino advisors makes the process easier. 

If you would like more advice on how to adjust to a new life in Canada or to learn about Settlement Immiland's comprehensive services, you can explore our website: https://www.immilandcanada.com/establecimiento/inicio or request a personalized consultation to safely and reliably settle in the province of your dreams. 

Thanks for reading to the end, I hope you enjoy the Canadian weather to the fullest with this guide! See you in the next blog!

With love,

Immiland 

Note: This article does not constitute legal advice or legal opinion from an attorney. Rather, it is provided solely to inform readers about certain aspects related to the details of the law in legal matters.

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