How to survive a Torontonian winter
By Zarina Patel, University of Toronto, Canada
Here is a practical guide on how to survive and embrace the crazy Canadian winter as a Brit.
Unlike in the UK, Toronto life doesn’t stop because of snow. I remember walking to my midterm exam in thick snow; this was so normal to my classmates. I will also give you some suggestions on fun activities to make the most of the winter months!
Practical tips
1. Sort out your winter coat early
Even though a proper winter coat can be expensive, it is an investment. You can always sell it on Vinted before heading back to the UK to get some of your money back!
I bought the Aritzia Super Puff at the start of the year (from an Aritzia Outlet!) due to its quality and value for money – I couldn’t recommend it more highly! There some other great options on the market, but these can get pricey: UNIQLO, TNA Powder Parker, Lululemon Wunder Puff. Also, Vinted can be a great place to buy a second hand winter jacket if you plan ahead enough.
2. Snow boots must be able to handle slush
If you live downtown, the authorities act pretty quickly to clear the snow off roads and pavements. This, combined with the fact that Toronto is by Lake Ontario, leads to the unfortunate consequence of slush! For this reason, when looking at snow boots, focus on their waterproofness so they won’t get trashed from walking through pure slush. Snow boots do not need to be expensive. I recommend going to a shopping mall and trying lots of pairs on. I bought mine from Walmart for around £25.
Remember, you will likely wear these snow boots to your classes, so choose some that you like the look of too!
3. Layer, layer, layer!
Although I do recommend getting a UNIQLO heat tech, any layers will work. Wear leggings or tights under your trousers, long sleeve tops under hoodies and some long, fluffy and thick socks!
4. Accessories are a MUST
My favourite purchase of the year has to be my $4 Dollarama earmuffs. They were both super cute and super practical! Also, I suggest getting some touch screen gloves. Believe me, in -20°C you do not want to be taking your hands out your gloves to check your phone!
5. Use the PATH
This is a network of underground pedestrian tunnels in downtown Toronto, keeping you warm whilst getting around. It connects over 70 buildings via 30 kilometres of climate-controlled indoor elevated or underground walkways and shopping areas. You can quite literally walk from the waterfront to downtown Yonge Street without stepping foot outside!
Winter activities to get excited about
I will never forget how magical my first Toronto snowfall was. In the city, there is so much to look forward to when it starts snowing. Your winter will fly by, so make the most of it:
- Ice skate in front of the Toronto sign at Nathan-Phillips Square
- Sledge down the Riverdale Park slope
- Walk around High Park to experience their snow-covered trails
- Hop on the ferry to the Toronto Islands to visit a snowy Ward’s Island beach
- Tick off some indoor Toronto activities (e.g. museums such as the ROM or AGO)
- Book a place on a UofT-organised subsidised ski day trip to Blue Mountain (less than 2 hours from Downtown Toronto)
- Go snow tubing (see picture below!)
Often the first thing people ask me when I tell them I did a year abroad in Toronto is: “How did you survive the winter?” I can honestly say if you are prepared, there is nothing to worry about. If anything, the winter is something to look forward to!
