As winter sets in, staying warm and comfortable becomes a top priority, especially for students juggling coursework, late-night study sessions, and a busy social calendar. With the cold, damp weather making its way to campus, it’s the perfect time to stock up on winter essentials that will help you stay cosy and prepared for the season. Whether you’re braving the chill on your way to class or curling up in the library, these must-have items will ensure you stay warm, focused, and ready to take on the winter months.
Invest in a warm coat
When shopping for a winter coat, the most important factor to consider is warmth. You’ll be spending a lot of time outdoors—whether it’s walking to campus, heading to the library for a study session, or even just running errands in the cold. A coat that looks great but doesn’t offer enough insulation will leave you shivering, no matter how stylish it is. Comfort should always come first, especially when you’re dealing with London’s chilly, damp winter weather.While it might be tempting to go for a cheaper, trendier option, investing in a coat that provides proper warmth is well worth it. A higher-quality, insulated coat may cost more upfront, but it will last longer, keep you more comfortable, and save you from needing to layer up excessively or replace it after just one season.
Gloves
Gloves are an absolute must-have for winter in London. While you might think you can tough it out without them, the cold breeze combined with the unpredictable rain can quickly leave your hands both freezing and soaked. Even if temperatures aren’t plummeting below zero, the damp chill in the air has a way of creeping into your fingers, making it feel much colder than it actually is.
Warm Socks
As the temperatures drop, it’s time to swap out your lighter socks for something much cosier and warmer, such as fuzzy socks. For students in London, who often walk to and from campus or student halls, keeping your feet warm and comfortable is crucial. While your trainers might be great for everyday wear, they don’t always provide the insulation your feet need against the cold, especially if you’re walking outside for long periods or in damp weather.
Umbrella
A good raincoat is an obvious winter essential, but sometimes it’s not enough to fully protect you from the weather, especially when the weather turns particularly harsh. For extra protection, especially in heavy rain or even snow, an umbrella can be a valuable addition to your winter gear. Not only does it keep you dry, but it also helps shield your bags, shoes, and even your hair from getting drenched.
Photo by Erik Witsoe on Unsplash
Scarf
A scarf can be a beautiful accessory to your overall look but it can also be repurposed as a head covering for your ears or your face on windy cold days.
Photo by Karen Cantú Q on Unsplash
Just because you’re prepared to take on the cold while you’re outside, doesn’t mean you’re completely ready for winters. We recommend getting some good moisturiser to use at night and travel-sized hand cream to keep in your bag for when the dry skin sets in. Using a moisturiser before your skin starts to crack makes such a big difference! Also, remember to stay hydrated – this can boost your immune system and give your body the support it needs to fight off infection. Your body uses water to help maintain a temperature balance and when you aren’t adequately hydrated, your body can become cold.
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