Oh, winter, how I loathe thee. I’m so excited to see you come Christmas or New Year, but once January ends, you are no longer welcome in my life. January to March is a long stretch to go without feeling the warmth of the sun. During these months, it’s easy to feel exasperated and figure you’re doomed to an eternity of always being cold. Have no fear! Here’s a list of ways you can beat this awful, frigid season!

  1. Invest in warm socks.

Look, I don’t care how water resistant your Uggs are; at some point in time, you are going to get melted snow in your boots. It will be uncomfortable and torturous. To prevent this, wear the fuzziest, thickest, most old mannish socks you own. Your frozen tootsies will thank you in the long run.

 

fuzzy socks

Might I suggest these fuzzy cat socks?

  1. Hand warmers.

Here’s an old trick I learned back in high school marching band when we had to perform on a field in 20 degree weather:[ stick hand warmers in your gloves. On particularly cold days when you know you’re going to be outside a lot, these are going to save your life. Or, at least, your hands from frostbite.

 

 

 

hand warmers

 

 

  1. Drinks

Never underestimate the power of a hot cup of tea or coffee. It will defrost your frozen soul even on the coldest of days. Bonus points if you take your beverage to class and look all collegiate toting around your travel mug.

travel mug

You’ll be the coolest kid on campus with this travel mug, guaranteed.

  1. Plan nights indoors.

It’s exciting to go out and meet up with friends, but let’s be real: nobody wants to get gussied up for a night on the town when it’s freezing outside. Especially in college, when your main mode of transportation is walking. Instead, have friends over for a Netflix or Cards Against Humanity night. You’ll still have plenty of fun without running around town in the cold.

 

  1. Candles

If you live off campus and your building permits it, light a couple of candles. Those tiny flames make a huge difference and gives your place a rustic, cozy vibe.

This candle is scented to smell like a library. Perfection.

candel

 

  1. Craft something fluffy

Consider purchasing one of those “cut-and-tie” blanket kits from a craft store. They’re relatively inexpensive and give you something to do if you’ve encountered cabin fever. When you’re done, you have an extra layer of warmth to spread out on your bed!

fluffy

Cute and functional.

 

  1. The dryer trick

This is something I did a lot as a kid: right before you go to bed, put your pajamas and pillowcase in the dryer for a few minutes. As soon as they’re done, slip them on and snuggle up in your bed. Instant toastiness.

 

  1. Showers & Baths

You’re walking home from your three hour night class in a blizzard. As soon as you walk into your building, peel off your icy clothes and slide into a ridiculously hot bath or shower. Then, slip into the next item on this list…

 

  1. Onesies, man.

For my 21st birthday, I decided I wanted to treat myself. Did I buy myself a new bag or jewelry? No; I bought myself a skeleton print onesie. Let me tell you, not a day goes by that I don’t thank the lucky stars for owning this. It is huge, made of ultra-fluffy fleece, and even has a hood so your ears stay warm. Perfect for those inevitable cold Erie nights.  You can even combine steps #7, #3, and #1 for optimum coziness. Ahh, sweet bliss.

onsie

Why would you not want this???

 Hopefully these tips will give you some ideas on how to beat this blustery winter. Good luck and stay warm!