Each year we get a light dusting of snow in the fall that reminds us that winter is just around the corner. That first dusting of snow is a sign it’s time to do a winter clothing inventory.

When you live in rural northern Minnesota, you really can’t hesitate to flesh out your winter wardrobe.  If you wait, not only will you pay full price, but you’ll have a very limited selection to choose from.  And since kids play outside at recess as long as the temp is above 0º F,  you need to be ready for the cold temperatures.

How to Do a Winter Clothing Inventory

Assess what you have. Take everything out of your closets or wherever you’ve got your winter clothing stored.  Make sure everyone in the family tries on their outdoor gear (don’t forget to try on mittens, too, since little hands grow!).  Then do the same thing with your sweaters, long-sleeve shirts, and warm socks.

Figure out what you need. Once you’ve tried things on and figured out what fits, take a good look at what you have.  Do all of your mittens have their mates?  Does anyone need new boots or hats?  What about long underwear? Flannel PJ’s?  Or new hockey skates?

Make a detailed shopping list.  Make a list of everything your family needs for winter clothing and be specific with colors and sizes.  I love to put my list on my Evernote app on my phone, but you can just as easily write your list on a scrap of paper you keep in your wallet.  The key is to always have the list with you when you’re out shopping so that you don’t end up buying things you don’t need.

Look for bargains.  The best bargains on winter clothing are always at the end of the season, but if you just can’t wait until January or February, then there are a few things you can do.  Check out your local thrift stores.  Connect with other families in your area and see about doing a winter clothing swap.  Watch your local stores for sales.   Look for online coupon codes to help you save when shopping online.

No one likes to think about the weather getting colder, but unfortunately, it always does.  Make a winter clothing inventory now and it will be even easier for you to plan ahead for next winter.

The more  you can plan ahead, the more you can save!