Even though winter is likely to be the last thing on your mind during summer, wintertime is special. There are bonfires, hot chocolate, twinkly lights, and the holiday season. The catch is, it also gets bitterly cold!

Staying warm can often feel like a mission, especially if you are trying to cut down on your gas and electric bill. It should not have to be difficult, though, even if the temperature outside is close to freezing. If you want to ensure that you stay warm, then preparation is the key, so the time to start planning is now. By learning all the tips and tricks in advance, you will be an expert at keeping warm and toasty by the time winter arrives.

Be Smart with Your Heating

You do not have to leave the heating on all day to reap its benefits. Schedule your heater to switch on just before you wake up, when you get home from work, and then before you go to bed. It does not have to be on for long to give your home the boost of warmth it needs without running up your bills.

If you or an elderly relative needs a little help to finance your heating, there are grants such as the winter fuel allowance available. See here for more details.

Wear Layers

Layers are an essential part of winter. Of course, you are likely to wear them when you go out, but you should also keep them on when you are inside. That way, your body will stay warm throughout the evenings. Consider investing in thermal tops, too, to ensure the heat stays in. To find out which thermal clothes are the best, visit Huffpost.

Eat Warming Foods

It is crucial to eat well in winter, as your body needs more calories to keep your body warm. When meal planning, keep soups, stews and pies in mind, as they will instantly make you feel warmer while nourishing your body. Do not be afraid of eating more than you usually do in the winter, too, as a little extra fat in your body can help protect you from the cold.

Drink Warm Beverages

There is nothing quite as satisfying as a hot cup of tea, coffee, or hot chocolate after coming in from the blistering cold. So, throughout the winter, make the most out of your kettle and drink plenty of warm beverages to keep you nice and toasty.

Do More Workouts

It might be the last thing you want to do when you are shivering inside, but exercise will quickly get your heart rate going and heat your entire body. Cardio is particularly effective! Look online for some simple home exercises to keep your body moving, and before long, you will soon feel like opening a window.

Block All Drafts

It is amazing how much of a difference a draft-blocker can make. If you have any gaps under your doors, make sure you block them once the cold season rolls around so that the heat from your home does not escape.

Use a Hot Water Bottle

It is not just kids that benefit from hot water bottles. Pouring a kettle full of (almost) boiling water into your hot water bottle before bed will help keep your fingers and toes toasty all night long for a great night’s sleep. You will quickly forget that it is below freezing outside!

As you can see, there are plenty of ways to stay warm as the nights grow cooler. By using these methods, you are sure to keep the shivers away no matter how cold it gets.