If you're coming to Brigham Young University-Idaho from somewhere warm, your first Rexburg winter can be an adjustment. Snow, icy sidewalks, cold wind, and below-freezing mornings may be new parts of your college routine.
The good news? A little preparation goes a long way. These Rexburg winter weather tips can help you feel comfortable and confident when the first real snow arrives.
What Should You Wear in a Rexburg Winter?
Start with the right outerwear. BYU-Idaho recommends a heavy winter coat, waterproof snow boots, a hat, and gloves for Rexburg's colder months.
Layers are your friend! You might walk across campus in freezing weather and then spend the next two hours in a heated classroom. Wear clothes you can easily add or remove.
Pay particular attention to your shoes. Throughout the day, sparkling snow may turn to watery slush. Waterproof boots help keep your feet dry, and good traction can make icy sidewalks easier to navigate.
How Do You Walk Safely in Snow and Ice?
One of the biggest changes during a BYU-Idaho winter is simply getting from place to place.
Give yourself more time than usual to walk to class, especially after fresh snow or an overnight freeze. Slow down on slick areas and take shorter steps. Pay attention around stairs, parking lots, and shaded sidewalks where ice can linger.
Check the weather before heading out, too. Knowing whether you're walking into snow, wind, or especially cold temperatures makes it easier to dress appropriately and plan extra time.
What If You're Driving in Snow for the First Time?
Driving on snow and ice requires different habits than driving on dry roads. Slow down, leave more space between vehicles, avoid cruise control on icy roads, and check road conditions before you go.
Clear snow and ice from your windows before driving, and keep a winter emergency kit in your vehicle. Useful items include an ice scraper, a blanket, gloves, water, food, a flashlight, a phone charger, and a small shovel.
If conditions are poor and the trip isn't necessary, waiting for better conditions may be the better option. You can also check Idaho 511 before longer drives.
If you're feeling nervous going into winter months, the Idaho Transportation Department offers free winter driving classes.
What Should You Keep in Your Apartment?
Your first winter is easier when you don't have to run to the store every time the weather changes.
Along with your winter clothes, keep a few practical basics around: extra blankets, moisturizer, lip balm, warm socks, and enough groceries to get through a snowy day when you'd rather stay inside.
Rexburg's dry winter air can also surprise students used to more humid climates, so small comfort items can make a big difference. Your favorite blanket or childhood stuffed animal is perfect for cozying up on a chilly day.
How Does Winter Change Student Life?
Winter affects more than your wardrobe. You may need to leave earlier for class, plan grocery trips more carefully, and think twice about how far you want to walk after dark.
Location can feel especially important during a Rexburg winter. A walk that seems easy in September can feel much longer on a snowy January morning.
Still, winter doesn't mean staying inside all semester. BYU-Idaho offers campus activities, events, and winter recreation, and evenings at home with roommates can become part of the experience, too.
Make Winter Life More Convenient at Cedars
Cedars at Hemming Village is directly across from the BYU-Idaho Stadium, with campus, restaurants, shops, and services nearby. When snow starts falling, having everyday destinations close by can make student life a little simpler.
If that kind of convenience matters to you, schedule a tour of Cedars to see our apartments for yourself.
