Moving to Canada for the winter? Learn what to wear, which winter boots to buy, how to manage heating costs, and how to get around London, Ontario.

<h2>How cold does winter get in Canada?</h2>If you are planning to study in Canada during the winter, focus on three things: dressing in layers, choosing waterproof winter boots, and checking heating costs before renting a place. You do not need to buy an entire winter wardrobe in Vietnam. It is often easier to get the essentials first and buy additional items once you arrive.Winter conditions vary significantly across Canada. Vancouver generally has milder but wetter winters, while cities in Ontario, such as Toronto, Ottawa, and London, regularly experience freezing temperatures and snowfall.If you are studying in London, Ontario, be prepared for long periods of cold weather. Historical weather observations show that average January temperatures can vary considerably from year to year. For example, the monthly average was approximately -7.7°C in January 2022, compared with around -0.9°C in January 2023. These figures illustrate how much winter conditions can change between years. They are actual monthly observations, not long-term climate averages.Another term you will often see in Canadian weather forecasts is wind chill. It describes how cold the air feels when wind is factored in. For example, the actual temperature might be -10°C, while the wind chill makes it feel closer to -20°C. Always check both the temperature and wind chill before heading outside.You can monitor local forecasts and weather alerts through <a href="https://www.canada.ca/en/services/environment/weather.html">Environment and Climate Change Canada.</a><h2>What should you wear when temperatures drop below 0°C?</h2>A thick winter jacket alone may not be enough. Dressing in layers is usually more effective because you can adjust your clothing depending on the weather and how much time you spend outdoors.A simple three-layer system works well:<ul><li>Base layer: Thermal underwear or moisture-wicking fabric to keep your skin dry.</li><li>Mid layer: A fleece jacket, sweater, or lightweight insulated jacket to retain body heat.</li><li>Outer layer: A windproof and water-resistant winter coat to protect you from snow, wind, and freezing rain.</li></ul>Do not forget smaller items such as a warm hat, scarf, gloves, and thick socks. If you walk to campus or take public transit regularly, these are essentials rather than optional accessories.One thing to avoid is wearing so many layers that you start sweating. Damp clothing can make you feel even colder once you stop moving. The goal is to stay warm without making it difficult to walk around or get through your daily routine.<h2>Winter boots: Why regular sneakers are not enough</h2>Regular sneakers are not designed for walking through snow, slush, or icy streets. When shopping for winter boots, focus on three things: waterproofing, insulation, and good traction.Your boots should also have enough room for thick socks without squeezing your feet. If you walk a lot, choose a pair that feels comfortable and is not unnecessarily heavy.You may also encounter black ice during winter. It is a thin, often transparent layer of ice on roads and sidewalks that can be difficult to spot. Even boots with good traction may not provide enough grip in these conditions. Consider ice grips if you regularly walk on icy surfaces.<h2>What should you bring from Vietnam, and what should you buy in Canada?</h2>You do not need to fill your luggage with winter clothing before leaving Vietnam. Bring a few basic items and buy specialized winter gear after arriving, once you understand the weather in your city. &nbsp;<figure class="table"><table><tbody><tr><td>Bring from Vietnam</td><td>Buy in Canada</td></tr><tr><td>Thermal underwear and thick socks</td><td>A proper winter coat</td></tr><tr><td>Basic hats, scarves, and gloves</td><td>Waterproof winter boots</td></tr><tr><td>Sweaters or fleece jackets</td><td>Ice grips, if needed</td></tr><tr><td>Comfortable indoor clothing</td><td>Additional layers based on local weather</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>In Canada, you can find winter clothing at outdoor retailers, shopping malls, and second-hand stores. Black Friday and Boxing Day are also worth checking if you want to save money.Do not buy something just because it has a big discount. A winter coat that suits the local weather and boots that&nbsp;keep your feet dry are much more useful than expensive items that do not meet your needs.<h2>Heating costs and renting: What should you check?</h2>Winter can affect more than your clothing budget. When temperatures drop, heating systems run more frequently, which may increase your monthly living expenses.Before signing a rental agreement, ask whether heating, electricity, and water are included in the rent. If utilities are not included, check how they are billed and ask about typical winter costs.For rentals covered by Ontario's Residential Tenancies Act, <a href="https://www.ontario.ca/page/guide-ontarios-standard-lease">the Ontario Standard Lease </a>guide explains how services and utilities should be addressed in the agreement.However, the Standard Lease does not apply to every accommodation arrangement. For example, some situations where tenants share a kitchen or bathroom with the property owner may fall outside the Act. University residences and other housing arrangements may also have separate rules.There are a few simple ways to make your room more comfortable. Thick curtains, rugs, and checking for drafts around windows can help reduce heat loss. If you use a humidifier, clean it regularly to prevent mold and bacteria from building up.<h2>Getting around London, Ontario during winter</h2>If you are studying in London, Ontario, public transit is one of the main ways to get around the city. The London Transit Commission operates local bus services, but snow and icy conditions can affect travel times and routes. &nbsp;Before leaving home, check the <a href="https://www.londontransit.ca/plan-a-trip/real-time/guide/">London Transit real-time guide </a>for estimated arrival times and service updates. You can also visit the City of London's <a href="https://london.ca/living-london/snow-updates">Snow Updates </a>page for information about snow removal and winter road conditions. &nbsp;When walking outside, take smaller steps and avoid sudden turns on slippery surfaces. If you study at Western University, check the university's <a href="https://www.uwo.ca/weather.html">weather updates </a>for official announcements about campus operations during severe weather.<h2>Staying healthy and adjusting to winter</h2>Cold weather and dry indoor air can leave your skin feeling dry and your lips cracked. Keep yourself hydrated, use moisturizer, and change out of wet clothing as soon as possible.Winter can also affect your mood. Shorter days and less time outdoors may make it harder to maintain your usual routine. Try to get some daylight, stay physically active, and take part in activities on campus instead of spending every day indoors.You do not have to enjoy winter immediately. Give yourself time to adjust, build a routine, and find activities that make the season easier to manage. If low mood or lack of energy persists and begins affecting your daily life, consider seeking professional support.&nbsp;&nbsp;Read more:<meta charset="utf-8"><ul style="margin-bottom:0;margin-top:0;padding-inline-start:48px;"><li style="background-color:transparent;color:#1155cc;font-family:'Be Vietnam Pro',sans-serif;font-size:12pt;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;list-style-type:disc;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;" dir="ltr" aria-level="1"><a style="text-decoration:none;" href="https://loaportal.com/en/news/how-much-does-weekly-grocery-shopping-cost-in-canada-2026-update">How Much Does Weekly Grocery Shopping Cost in Canada? (2026 Update)</a></li><li style="background-color:transparent;color:#1155cc;font-family:'Be Vietnam Pro',sans-serif;font-size:12pt;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;list-style-type:disc;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;" dir="ltr" aria-level="1"><meta charset="utf-8"><a style="text-decoration:none;" href="https://loaportal.com/en/news/cost-of-studying-in-canada-2026">Cost of Studying in Canada 2026</a></li></ul>&nbsp; &nbsp;

Winter in Canada: What Should International Students Wear, Buy, and Prepare For?

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Hitachi Energy will invest C$479 million in a London, Ontario plant for transformer insulation, adding Canadian supply capacity and creating 100+ skilled jobs.

On October 16, 2026, <a href="https://www.hitachienergy.com/company/company-profile">Hitachi Energy</a> announced a CAD 479 million investment to develop a manufacturing facility for electrical insulation materials used in power transformers in London, Ontario. The project is expected to be completed in 2028 and create more than 100 skilled technical jobs.This investment marks more than the addition of a new manufacturing facility in Canada. It also reflects the growing need to strengthen the electrical equipment supply chain as energy demand continues to rise. The expansion of data centres, industrial activity, and electrification is placing greater demands on power infrastructure, highlighting the importance of essential materials and components that support reliable electricity transmission and distribution.<h2>What Will the New Facility Produce?&nbsp;</h2>Spanning approximately 21,000 square metres, the new facility will focus on manufacturing pressboard and laminate insulation materials. These specialized materials are used to electrically insulate internal components in power and distribution transformers.<figure class="image image_resized" style="width:65.96%;"><img style="aspect-ratio:750/500;" src="https://static.bbw.vn/img/bbw/may-bien-ap-data-center-graham-hughesbloomberg-750x500.webp" alt="Picture: Graham Hughes/Bloomberg" width="750" height="500"><figcaption><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width:0px;display:inline !important;float:none;font-family:Inter, sans-serif;font-size:14px;font-variant-caps:normal;font-variant-ligatures:normal;font-weight:400;letter-spacing:normal;orphans:2;text-align:start;text-decoration-color:initial;text-decoration-style:initial;text-decoration-thickness:initial;text-indent:0px;text-transform:none;white-space:normal;widows:2;word-spacing:0px;">Picture: Graham Hughes/Bloomberg</figcaption></figure>Transformers regulate voltage levels to enable the efficient transmission and distribution of electricity across the power grid. Although rarely seen by end users, insulation materials play a critical role in ensuring these devices operate safely and reliably.According to Hitachi Energy, the London facility will mark the first time pressboard manufacturing capabilities are established in Canada, helping strengthen the supply of insulation materials for the North American transformer industry.<h2>Why Is This Investment Significant for London?</h2>According to the company and the Ontario government, the project is expected to create more than 100 permanent, skilled jobs. The Government of Canada has announced CAD 20 million in funding through the <a href="https://ised-isde.canada.ca/site/ised/en/programs-and-initiatives/strategic-response-fund">Strategic Response Fund</a>, along with an additional CAD 10 million from <a href="https://natural-resources.canada.ca/about">Natural Resources Canada</a>. Ontario is also expected to provide up to CAD 20 million through the <a href="https://www.investontario.ca/">Invest Ontario Fund</a>.The impact of a manufacturing project often extends beyond the number of direct jobs it creates. Once the facility becomes operational, it may generate additional demand for material suppliers, transportation, maintenance, and industrial services. These represent potential economic benefits rather than confirmed job numbers or specific hiring commitments.The project also builds on Hitachi Energy’s existing presence in the region. The company expanded its operations through the acquisition of Ontario-based Canduct Group, which specializes in manufacturing transformer insulation assemblies and components. By combining insulation material production with related component manufacturing, the investment could help strengthen the regional supply chain as power equipment manufacturers seek more reliable sources of supply.<h2>The Region’s Evolving Industrial Landscape</h2>London is located near St. Thomas, where PowerCo, Volkswagen Group’s battery subsidiary, is building an electric vehicle battery manufacturing plant.However, according to an update in September 2026, PowerCo has pushed back the plant’s expected start of operations to 2029. As a result, the battery project should be viewed as part of the region’s long-term industrial outlook rather than an immediate source of job creation.Although the two projects operate in different sectors, both are linked to the broader trends of electrification and advanced manufacturing. If implemented as planned, investments of this kind could increase demand for skilled workers in technical fields, automation, operations, and manufacturing support.However, actual hiring levels will depend on project timelines, business needs, and the specific requirements of each position.<h2>What Does This Investment Signal for Students?</h2>For students considering studying in London, Ontario, Hitachi Energy’s investment represents a notable development in the local energy and manufacturing sectors. The expansion of production capacity for transformer insulation materials also highlights the role of engineering and advanced manufacturing in supporting electricity infrastructure.Students can use this development as a starting point to explore programs related to electrical engineering, electromechanical engineering, automation, quality control and logistics. When choosing a program, they should consider its hands-on training, co-op or internship opportunities, and industry connections-experiences that can help them develop practical skills before graduation.The project is expected to be completed in 2028 and is anticipated to create more than 100 jobs. However, this figure does not guarantee that suitable positions will be available to international graduates. In addition to developing relevant expertise, students should research employer requirements, workplace conditions and eligibility requirements for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP).Rather than viewing this investment as a promise of employment, students should see it as an indication of local industrial development and an opportunity to explore career paths that align with their skills and interests. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<meta charset="utf-8">Read more:<meta charset="utf-8"><ul style="margin-bottom:0;margin-top:0;padding-inline-start:48px;"><li style="background-color:transparent;color:#1155cc;font-family:'Be Vietnam Pro',sans-serif;font-size:12pt;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;list-style-type:disc;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;" dir="ltr" aria-level="1"><a style="text-decoration:none;" href="https://loaportal.com/en/news/canada-rocket-company-breaks-ground-on-rocket-engine-test-facility-in-london-ontario">Canada Rocket Company Breaks Ground on Rocket Engine Test Facility in London, Ontario</a></li><li style="background-color:transparent;color:#1155cc;font-family:'Be Vietnam Pro',sans-serif;font-size:12pt;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;list-style-type:disc;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;" dir="ltr" aria-level="1"><meta charset="utf-8"><a style="text-decoration:none;" href="https://loaportal.com/en/news/study-aviation-in-canada-2026-admission-requirements-tuition-fees-career-opportunities">Study Aviation in Canada 2026: Admission Requirements, Tuition Fees &amp; Career Opportunities</a></li></ul>

Hitachi Energy Invests C$479 Million in London, Ontario

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