From unpredictable showers to surprise heatwaves

If there's one thing you must've heard about the UK, it's that the British are always talking about the weather. But do you really blame them when the weather is so unpredictable? One minute the sun's out and everyone's enjoying summer; the next minute it starts drizzling, and just when you've grabbed an umbrella - boom, the clouds are gone, the sun is beating down, and you're in the middle of a heatwave. ☀️🌧️

Whaaaat? I know. Welcome to the UK. It gets mad cold but also very hot (and when there's no AC where you live, you'll definitely feel it). 🥵

Layering is Key 🧥

When you're in the UK, you never know how warm or how cold it's gonna get. It may be quite chilly in the morning, but then become a little warmer as the sun comes up and shines through. So, the best thing to do is layer up! A base layer with a warm jumper (if you're in the winter months) and a waterproof outer layer (for those annoying rains) should do the trick. 🧊

Tackle Condensation 🪟

Humidity in the UK is no joke, and that means condensation can build up on windows, especially in winter. Now, this can make mould grow. And we don't want that, do we? The quick and easy fix to this is to wipe windows regularly with a microfibre cloth and also open your windows (even 15–20 minutes is good enough) for proper ventilation. 💨

Raincoats over Umbrellas (Maybe?) 🌂

Now, of course, it rains quite a bit in the UK, and the most obvious choice to tackle the rain is opening an umbrella. BUT, heads up, London winds are quite strong, and it's not uncommon for umbrellas to literally just snap or flip inside out. Yikes.

This isn't to say don't use umbrellas at all. They're still good for calm rains, but it's best to invest in a sturdy waterproof coat or raincoat with a hood. You’ll also get to have your hands free. 🌬️

Winter Essentials ❄️

Winters in the UK are long and grey. And if you're someone who isn’t used to the cold, it's gonna get quite chilly. So it's important you prepare right to keep yourself warm and cosy.

LSE halls have a heating system, and it's worth checking how it works in your particular hall. Usually, it’s turned on in the colder months and generally comes on for a few hours in the morning and evening. However, you can turn it off if you're too warm when the heating is on. 🔥

Also, it’s completely normal to feel a dip in energy during the winter months. The lack of sunlight can affect your mood. If you start to feel this way, consider taking Vitamin D supplements (check with your GP first!) and try to get outside during daylight hours whenever you can. Trust me, even a short walk can help tons! 🌥️

Additionally, I found it's always worth investing in the following:

• A warm winter coat that is waterproof
• Scarves
• Gloves
• Beanies
• A warm and cosy blanket, if your hall doesn't provide one 🧣

Heatwave Essentials ☀️

Now this might come as a lil bit of a shocker, but the UK does get hot and I mean REALLY hot. Since LSE halls (like most houses in the country) don't have air conditioning, it can be quite suffocating. But keep the following in mind to beat the heat:

• Invest in a desk fan
• Carry a water bottle everywhere
• Look into cooking cold meals like Vietnamese rice paper rolls
• Take cool showers twice a day

If it gets too hot in your room, try studying or working in the common areas in halls or head to the LSE Library. These spots are well ventilated. Who knows, you might even find an ice cream or frozen yoghurt truck on the way. And on a hot day, sometimes that’s all you need! 🍦

BUT, I'm here to give you some top tips that will help you tackle the weather here like a boss! 💪

Whether it's the long and cold nights of December or the summery vibe of June when the sun doesn't set until 9 PM, these tips will help you be prepared for both! 🌇

With the right essentials and by keeping an eye on your weather app, you'll be well-equipped to handle the UK's unpredictable climate. Do that, and you'll be navigating the seasons like a true Londoner in no time! 📲☔