Weather Prep Hat
The weather in the U.S. varies a lot depending on where you live, but most international students have to deal with at least cold winters and hot summers. Getting ready well saves money and makes life easier.
Clothes and other things for winter
Layering is very important:
Base layer: thermal top and leggings.
Sweater or hoodie for the middle layer.
The outside layer is a waterproof winter coat.
Buy a winter coat that is insulated and water-resistant. Don't just bring a light jacket; a lot of students don't realize how cold the Midwest or Northeast can get.
Shoes: Boots that are waterproof and have good traction on snow and ice.
You need gloves, beanies, and scarves as accessories.
Pro Tip: Wait until you get there to buy winter clothes. Stores like Walmart, Target, and Burlington often have seasonal sales that are cheap.
Heating and Comfort Inside
Know what kind of heating you have: There may be central heating, radiators, or electric heaters in apartments.
Check the cost of utilities: In places where it gets very cold, heating bills can be high in the winter.
Smart habits include keeping doors and windows closed, using thick curtains, and wearing layers inside.
A student in Chicago saved $50 a month on heating bills just by putting cheap weather strips around the edges of their windows.
Summer Clothes and Things You Need
Lightweight clothes: Cotton or linen that breathes well for hot, humid days.
For outdoor activities, wear sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat or cap to protect your skin from the sun.
Carry a reusable water bottle—campuses often have refill stations.Stay hydrated.
Fans or portable air conditioners: Some states don't have central air conditioning in their apartments. During a heat wave, one of my friends in Seattle bought a $30 box fan. It saved their life because many older apartments there didn't have air conditioning.
More tips for getting ready for the season
Thrift stores, Facebook Marketplace, and outlet malls are budget-friendly sources for seasonal gear.
Store clothes that aren't in season under your bed in vacuum bags or bins.
Keep a mix; spring and fall can be unpredictable (one week it snows, the next it shines).
