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Winter Preparation Guide

Essential guide for newcomers from warm climates — clothing, gear, home preparation, and health tips for Canadian winters.

Last verified: · Sources: IRCC

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Select a city above to see winter climate information for your area.

The Layering System

How Canadians stay warm in winter

Layer 1
Base Layer
Moisture-wicking fabric worn closest to your skin. Merino wool or synthetic materials work best.
Layer 2
Mid Layer
Insulating layer that traps warmth. Fleece, down, or wool sweaters are ideal choices.
Layer 3
Outer Layer
Windproof and waterproof shell that protects against snow, rain, and wind.

The key to staying warm is layering — multiple thin layers trap heat better than one thick layer.

Essential Winter Gear

What you need for your first Canadian winter

  • Heavy Winter JacketEssential

    A heavy insulated jacket rated to at least -20°C is essential for most Canadian cities. Look for a hood, windproof shell, and water resistance. Down or synthetic fill are both good options.

    $150–400
  • Base Layer (Thermal Top & Bottoms)Essential

    Moisture-wicking base layer worn directly against your skin. Merino wool or synthetic materials pull sweat away from your body, keeping you warm and dry. Avoid cotton, which stays wet.

    $40–100
  • Waterproof Shell JacketRecommended

    A waterproof outer shell jacket protects against wet snow and rain. Works as a standalone layer in mild winters or over your insulating layers in colder weather.

    $80–200

Home Winterization

Keep your home warm and energy-efficient

  • Set your thermostat to at least 21°C (70°F) during the day and no lower than 18°C (64°F) at night.
  • Keep cabinet doors under sinks open during extreme cold to prevent pipes from freezing.
  • Use weatherstripping or caulking around windows and doors to reduce drafts and save on heating.
  • Clear snow and ice from walkways and stairs promptly — you may be legally responsible for slip-and-fall injuries.
  • Know where your water shut-off valve is located in case a pipe bursts.

Driving in Winter

Essential winter driving safety tips

  • Install winter tires by November — they're mandatory in some provinces and dramatically improve traction.
  • Keep your gas tank at least half full to prevent fuel line freeze-up in extreme cold.
  • Carry an emergency kit: blanket, flashlight, shovel, sand/kitty litter, jumper cables, and snacks.
  • Allow extra time for travel and increase following distance on icy or snowy roads.

Health & Wellness

Stay healthy during the long winter months

  • Dress in layers and cover exposed skin to prevent frostbite — it can occur in as little as 10 minutes at -28°C.
  • Watch for signs of hypothermia: shivering, confusion, slurred speech, and drowsiness. Seek medical help immediately.
  • Stay active indoors when it's too cold outside — community centres often offer free winter programs.
  • Use a humidifier at home to combat dry winter air, which can cause skin irritation and respiratory issues.

Winter Gear Budget

Estimated costs for your first winter

Essential9 items

Essential items

$980–$2,270
Recommended7 items

Recommended items

+$200–500
Nice to have2 items

Nice-to-have items

+$55–140

Prices are approximate. Shop at thrift stores, Facebook Marketplace, or end-of-season sales for significant savings.

Winter conditions vary significantly across Canada. Always check local forecasts and advisories.

Newcomer Essentials

Services most newcomers need in their first months

Open a Bank AccountGet a Mobile PlanFind a Consultant

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