Preparing for Your First Winter in Nova Scotia, Canada: A Guide

Ready for a new adventure in Nova Scotia, Canada? One of the biggest challenges for new arrivals to Nova Scotia is adjusting to the winter. Whether it’s your first cold winter ever or a slight adjustment, it’s important to be prepared for a new climate.

In this guide, we’ll go over what to expect, how to prepare, and shopping tips for your winter gear.

What To Expect

Let’s go over a few of the conditions that you may encounter from approximately December to March in Nova Scotia, Canada.

Temperature

The coldest it usually gets in Nova Scotia is in February, when night time lows can reach around -15 degrees Celsius, or 5 degrees Fahrenheit. 

A more average winter day may look like a high of 0 to 4 degrees Celsius (32-34 degrees Fahrenheit) and a low of -4 to -8 degrees Celsius (18-25 degrees Fahrenheit).

Snow, Rain, and Storms

As a coastal province, Nova Scotia is prone to winter storms, often taking place from November to March. You can expect a handful of winter days with heavy winds, snow, or rain. 

Sunrise & Sunset

It’s also important to note the changes in daylight during a winter in Nova Scotia. Sunrises can reach as late as 7:50am, and sunsets as early as 4:30pm.

What To Wear During Winter in Nova Scotia, Canada

Clothing & What To Pack

As you prepare for your first winter in Nova Scotia, it is important to have the essential outerwear to navigate the Canadian climate.  As temperatures fluctuate with the changing seasons, it is vital to equip yourself for different weather conditions. 

Let’s walk through the must-have essentials, how to budget for them, and what to prioritize.

Winter Coat

Your winter coat will be the crown jewel of your wardrobe for a few months, so picking one is an important decision! Here’s what to look for and my personal recommendations.

The Basics

The most important features to look for include:

• Weather-resistant shell (waterproof or water-resistant) to protect against wind and precipitation

• Adequate insulation with down or synthetic fill for optimal warmth

• A hood to shield your head from the wind

• A covered zipper to prevent cold air from seeping in

• A collar that zips high to protect your neck and chin

Lengths & Coverage

Winter coats come in different lengths, allowing for different coverage over the body.  

→ For your first coat, I recommend a length at least to mid-thigh for optimal coverage and warmth.  

→ For children, consider purchasing a “snow suit” which consists of a winter coat and snow pants.

Snow suits are designed to provide all in one insulation, waterproofing, and comfort during winter activities, essential for children playing in the snow. Snow pants come with adjustable suspenders that can improve fit and customization. 

Warmth Rating

Winter coats are also categorized based on a warmth or “temperature rating”. Your needs for warmth levels will vary greatly depending on your lifestyle and activities in the winter.

→ I recommend initially investing in a coat categorized as "warm" to "extra warm" until you become accustomed to the winter climate and determine your preferred outdoor activities during the colder months.

Winter Boots

Snow boots are a must-have footwear designed to offer insulation, traction, and waterproofing in snowy and cold environments. When choosing snow boots, consider the following key features: 

• Insulation: Opt for boots with materials like fleece, Gore Tex, or Thinsulate to provide added warmth in cold weather. 
• Waterproof or Water-Resistant: Buy boots made with waterproof or water-resistant materials to keep feet dry, especially for children.
• Traction: Look for deep treads or lugs on the outsoles for excellent grip on icy or snowy surfaces. Boots with rubber or thermoplastic rubber (TPR) outsoles offer optimal traction. 
• Padding and Cushioning: Choose boots with padded insoles or midsoles for enhanced comfort during prolonged wear. 
• Warm and Insulated Linings: Prioritize boots with fur, fleece, or thermal linings that trap heat and maintain warmth.
• Adjustable Features: Opt for boots with adjustable laces, straps, or buckles for a secure and customizable fit. 
• High or Mid-Cut Design: Consider boots with a higher or mid-cut design to provide ankle support and shield from snow, slush, and cold winds. 
• Removable Liners: Some snow boots feature removable liners for easy cleaning or customization of insulation based on weather conditions and activities. Brands like Sorel offer boots with removable and washable sherpa linings, which are worth exploring.

Accessories: Gloves, Hats, Scarves

Don’t forget the accessories! Small pieces like gloves or mittens, hats, and scarves are absolutely crucial for your winter preparedness. We recommend opting for merino wool accessories and avoiding real wool, which tends to be itchy and uncomfortable.

Cold hands and feet can quickly dampen spirits, particularly for children, so protect your hands and feet!

Mittens will allow you to keep your fingers together, while gloves separate them. Mittens are often preferable to children, but there are a few other factors to consider when choosing your hand protection:

• Insulation: Choose between down or synthetic insulation. Down is lightweight, durable, and breathable, while synthetic insulation insulates well when wet and dries quickly.
• Waterproofness: Look for gloves or mittens with a waterproof and breathable barrier to protect against moisture from snow and rain. Consider brands such as Gore-Tex®, Marmot MemBrain®, or The North Face HyVent® for their effectiveness.
• Coverage: Buy mittens/gloves that have a large “cap” at the wrist that overlaps with the sleeve of the coat.

Try to balance out price and quality – gloves and mittens are easily lost! 

Layering

No matter what equipment or clothing you have, the key to staying warm is a trick called layering. Dressing appropriately can be a challenge, especially with fluctuating temperatures. Layering can keep you warm, but also keep you prepared for any unexpected changes. Plan your layers using the following guidelines:

• Base layer:  Also known as "long underwear," your base layer should consist of a wicking fabric to eliminate sweat while participating in physical activities. Choose a base layer thickness based on your specific activities, keeping in mind that lighter options are often better as other layers also contribute to warmth. Although a base layer is not typically necessary for work or school, it proves valuable during outdoor activities such as winter walks, tobogganing, or skiing.  

• Middle Layer: Your middle layer should consist of a fleece or sweater. This layer provides additional insulation and can be added or removed as needed.

• Outer Layer: The outer layer, also known as the shell, varies depending on your activity.  For activities like skiing in March, a lighter shell may be appropriate, while a heavier winter coat is recommended for colder temperatures.

Shopping Guide

Now that you know what to look for, let’s go over our top picks for brands and stores to find your winter essentials. Quality is everything when it comes to winter clothing, but these items can also be pricey! 

The following recommendations will help you balance price and quality to find the best fit for you and your family.

• Sorel (Winter boots and footwear)
• Pajar (Boots, accessories, outerwear)
• Cougar (Winter boots and footwear)
• Costco (Great place to shop for affordable snow suits and layers)
• The Bay (Find many high-quality winter wear brands)
• Mountain Equipment Coop (MEC)
• Sporting Life
• Patagonia (Known for great winter coats)
• Columbia
• Sport Chek

Mentally Preparing for Winter in Nova Scotia, Canada

Winter can certainly be a physical challenge, but it can also have an effect on your mental health. The intense weather and changes in daylight may be a bit of a shock, which can cause shifts in mood or experiences of Seasonal Affective Disorder. 

Luckily, there are a few things you can do to help mentally prepare for winter, and stay healthy throughout the season:

→ Turn on the lights: The science behind seasonal affective disorder and seasonal depression has a lot to do with the decreased exposure to sunlight in winter. One way you can combat this is by aiming to expose yourself to bright lights, especially in the morning time. Turn on your lights first thing in the morning, opt for a light therapy lamp, and try to get sunlight in your eyes as soon as the sun rises.

→ Consider a Vitamin D supplement: Another aspect of decreased daylight is a decreased production of vitamin D in the body. Many people find that taking a vitamin D supplement in the winter, or even increasing the dose, can improve the symptoms of seasonal affective disorder.

→ Get outside once a day: In times of harsh cold, it may be difficult to get excited about going outdoors. However, even just a 10-minute walk outside can help ease your mood and provide the benefit of fresh air and fresh scenery. If it feels difficult to go outside “for no reason,” try planning a winter activity that could inspire you to get outdoors and distract you from less-than-ideal weather.

Things to Do in Winter in Nova Scotia

Nova Scotia transforms into a winter wonderland, offering plenty of seasonal activities for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking cozy, festive experiences. Here are a few must-try activities during the winter:

• Skiing and Snowboarding: Nova Scotia is home to great skiing and snowboarding spots, including Ski Martock and Ski Wentworth, both offering lessons, rentals, and slopes for all skill levels.‍
• Ice Skating: Head to the Oval in Halifax, one of the largest outdoor skating rinks in the province. Additionally, community rinks can be found in smaller towns across the province, making ice skating accessible to everyone.
• ‍Winter Hiking: Many trails remain accessible in the winter, such as Cape Breton Highlands National Park and the Salt Marsh Trail. Snowshoeing is a popular way to explore these areas when snow levels are too high for regular hiking.
• ‍Holiday Markets and Festivals: During December, towns across the province host charming holiday events like the Glow Festival Halifax or the markets and craft fairs that take place across the city. These offer a festive atmosphere filled with local goods, holiday treats, and live music.

If you’ve recently settled in Nova Scotia and want to explore more of the province, check out our guide to the best places for a winter getaway.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are winter tires mandatory in Nova Scotia?

Winter tires are not legally required in Nova Scotia, but they are strongly recommended. The province's cold temperatures and snowy, icy roads can make driving treacherous, and winter tires provide improved traction and safety on these surfaces.

When should you change winter tires in Nova Scotia?

The best time to install winter tires is in late fall, typically around November, before the snow arrives. You should keep them on until the temperatures consistently stay above 7°C, usually by late March or early April.

How cold is Nova Scotia in winter?

Nova Scotia winters can vary, but temperatures generally range between 0°C and -15°C in most areas. Coastal regions may experience milder winters with frequent rain, while inland areas often see heavier snowfalls and colder temperatures.

How long is the winter in Nova Scotia?

Winter in Nova Scotia typically lasts from December to March. Snowfall can begin as early as November and may persist into April in some areas, especially in the highlands. However, the peak winter months are usually December through February.

Conclusion

I hope this guide has helped you feel prepared for your first winter in Nova Scotia. We’re here to support any further questions, concerns, or recommendations you may have!