While the spring semester may be called the spring semester, it certainly doesn't start out that way. From cold dorm rooms to staticky clothes to freezing walks across campus to get to class, winter can be rough for college students. So, here's a list of things that make winter on campus a little easier.
Note: remember to check with your college's regulations on whether or not the following items are allowed on your campus.
1. Hand warmers
Walking across campus in the cold isn't fun, and neither is trying to take notes with freezing hands. You can keep hand warmers in your pockets, or stuff them in your gloves. There are also rechargeable hand warmers that plug into your computer's USB port. Isn't technology amazing?
2. A humidifier
Winter means dry air, which leads to nosebleeds, dehydration, dry skin, cracked lips, and an increased risk of respreratory ailments. Dry air is also what causes increased static electricity in clothes. A humidifier is honestly a winter must-have for any dorm room, and will make you feel so much more comfortable, trust me.
3. Warm slippers
Let's face it, dorm room floors aren't exactly known for being warm. Even with an area rug or two, they can still feel pretty chilly in the winter. A pair of slippers (especially those lined with something fuzzy) will keep your feet nice and warm while studying.
4. Lotion and chapstick
Almost everyone's skin and lips get dry during the colder months, and not only does dry skin look pretty gross, its also itchy, sore, and just flat out uncomfortable to deal with. Invest in a good lotion and chapstick, and kiss dry, cracked lips and skin goodbye.
5. A space heater
This one probably isn't allowed at most colleges, due to it being a potential fire hazard, but if you're allowed to have one and your dorm room is always cold, go for it.
6. An extra blanket or two
Wrap them around your shoulders while studying, or use them to get extra cozy at night. They're also pretty handy to have if you ever have friends visiting on the weekend.
7. A bathrobe
A big, warm bathrobe is so much better to wrap around yourself after a shower than a towel, and a whole lot easier to keep wrapped around yourself when walking from the bathroom to your dorm room.
8. Real snow boots
Not cute suede boots with fuzzy trim. Real, waterproof, insulated snow boots will keep your feet dry and warm, and offer traction on slippery surfaces.
9. Fuzzy socks
If you didn't already get them as a stocking stuffer, a pair or two of fuzzy socks are pretty useful to have around. Comfortable and warm? Check.
10. Any instant food you can make in your dorm room.
This one may seem odd but here me out. There's gonna be a day when your campus gets a snow day and either the dining halls are closed, or it's way too snowy and cold to walk to them. Having options like instant oatmeal, microwavable soup, ramen, or frozen dinners are lifesavers on days when snow causes your campus to shut down.