How to Adjust to Major Weather Changes When Traveling 

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How to Adjust to Major Weather Changes When Traveling 

If you’re headed for a vacation destination with wildly different weather than what you’re used to, a little extra prep work is in order. It can be a difficult adjustment to make on a holistic level. Your entire body, both physical and mental, is accustomed to certain conditions. Even if you live in an area with distinct seasons, it can be a challenge to go from a snowy winter wonderland to the tropics suddenly. However, there are some steps you can take to ensure a smooth transition. It all starts with how you get around. 

• Choose the right vehicle. Renting a vehicle is the best way to explore any area. It can also keep you safe and help set the mood of a trip. For example, if you’re headed to the Florida Keys, you might want to rent a convertible to take advantage of the tropical weather. If you’re going to explore a national park in Montana, you’re going to want a reliable truck that can handle snow and freezing temperatures. What you drive helps define your attitude and approach to life. After all, you wouldn’t want to be the only hybrid sedan rolling up to a vacation that’s all about exploring a rodeo scene. 
• Make a list when packing clothes. It’s tempting to bring just about everything “just in case,” but being realistic about what you’ll want to wear is a major component of the trip’s success. List-making can help you ensure you don’t forget anything and also keeps over-packers in check.  
• Compare the weather conditions of your destination to similar weather back home. For example, if it’s 50 degrees where you’re going, is there a time of year where 50 is the average temperature at home? This will help you figure out exactly what to pack and what kinds of clothes to wear. Thinking back to last winter might help you remember if you would really benefit from hand warmers inside your gloves. Packing certain types of snow gear might also be a must. It can be a challenge when you’re living in one temperature extreme to remember just what you like at the polar opposite time of year.  

• Ease yourself into the vacation. Don’t plunge right into the most exciting activities—especially if they’ll expose you to temperature extremes. Instead, cushion your vacation with plenty of relaxing time at the start and end of the trip. Not only will this allow you to adjust on a comprehensive level, but you’ll also give yourself time to get into vacation mode. The start and end of trips are the ideal time to schedule massages, cozy up with a drink, and bond with your travel mates or fellow travelers. 
• Choose your hotel wisely. Where you stay will also be a big part of a vacation’s success. Although you might think you’ll “only be in a hotel to sleep and get ready,” that’s rarely the case. This is also a haven where you can escape from the bustle of the itinerary. Depending on where you’re headed, there might be some weather-related facets to consider. For example, if you’re going to the beach, you’ll really want to be within walking distance of the ocean—and preferably with a water-facing view. For skiers, you’ll also want to be close to the action. A cabin can help set the mood and make for a memorable trip. 

Part of the fun of a vacation is experiencing something wildly different than your daily life. However, temperature changes can really put a wrench into your plans. It’s okay to schedule a time to adjust, and this downtime might be just what you need to ease into the best vacation of your life.