Even under the best of circumstances, moving can be a hassle. Add in a dramatic climate change and the already hectic process gains a new layer of challenge. Fear not intrepid reader, we are here to help you understand what to do when moving to a different climate. So grab your shipping supplies, take a deep breath, and read on.
Dress for success
The first thing that you’ll want to pay attention to when moving between climate zones is your wardrobe. In this case, it pays to plan ahead. If you’re moving somewhere cold like Maine, Minnesota, or Montana, then you’ll need winter weather gear for your whole family. In addition to long pants and sweaters; warm coats, gloves, and hats are a necessity. Cold spells typically don’t last a day or two up north, they last weeks or even months. Similarly, if you’re moving from north to south, be prepared for heat and humidity.
Shop local
Don’t go overboard buying new clothes ahead of time though, because you may be paying extra for clothes that are atypical to the region you’re leaving. Instead, buy the necessities for a few days, but plan to do most of your clothes shopping in the new locale. Not only will you be getting a wardrobe appropriate to the new location, but you’ll also gain firsthand knowledge of the local area as well.
Fun in the sun
If you’re trading in your ice skates for swimsuits, make sure you prepare for other sun-related conditions as well. It may sound like common sense, but proper hydration is key to beating the heat, so drink plenty of water. This is doubly important if there are elderly or children with you. Don’t forget that your pets will need extra water too. To beat sunburns or similar issues, remember to wear appropriate headgear to protect your face and buy and apply sunblock or sunscreen.
Don’t be bold in the cold
Just because you’re used to going without a coat or jacket when the nights get chilly down in warmer climates, doesn’t mean you can continue to do so once you’ve moved somewhere cold. Remember that the further your body’s temperature drops below 98.6 degrees Fahrenheit, the more likely you are to suffer hypothermia. This can be quite serious, even fatal if ignored. So bundle up in layers, and keep warm when venturing out into the cold. Also, remember that just because the local news, your favorite weather app, or even the thermometer says it’s a certain temperature, you must remember to account for wind chill. That is, how cold does it feel when you take the wind into account.
Hot and humid v. dry heat
Just like those up north need to keep aware of wind chill, when moving to warmer climates you need to be aware of the humidity levels. In warmer areas of high humidity, you’ll find it’s harder to cool down. That’s because the amount of moisture in the air impedes your sweat’s evaporation. On the other hand, heat with low humidity will wick away moisture from your skin and clothes. This can lead to dry skin and similar irritants.
Regardless of where you move, it’s really best to simply go out into your new area and begin to acclimate. The more you stay inside and try to fight the climate, the harder it will be to get used to the new weather. So prepare for the weather, and enjoy your new neighborhood.
