Has the weather got you down? For many of you busy students, the cold couldn’t come at a worse time—either you’ve just begun a new semester, or your exam period’s coming up next! Don’t let the sub-zero temperatures keep you cooped up inside the house. A little (or a lot) of snow can try and slow you down, but you simply don’t have the time to spare.

The key to beating the winter woes is being prepared for anything because, let’s face it, anything could happen. A lot is at stake around this time of year, so make sure the harsh weather doesn’t interfere with your day-to-day habits. Here are some suggestions for surviving the season as a student.

Dress the part.
It can be tough to figure out what to wear in the winter. How do you prepare for both a warm classroom and the freezing wind outside? You should invest in good outerwear: a coat and pair of boots will be your best friends throughout the next couple of months. Layering your clothes is another great, twofold solution to winter dressing. Multiple layers will keep you warm in the chilliest temperatures, not to mention you’ll be ready for a sudden increase in temperature when you duck inside a crowded school building.

Pack smart.
You may groan at the prospect of carrying more stuff in your backpack, but there are certain things you just can’t leave behind. Hand cream and lip balm will protect you from the elements, and keeping tissues and some cough drops in a side pocket is a great idea in case you feel a cold coming on. If you’re used to a hot lunch, a thermos will keep your food warm even when it’s frigid out—and in case you need a pick-me-up, having a couple of tea bags on you will save you the cost of a hot drink at a café. Most importantly, pack an extra pair of socks. You never know when you’re going to step in a puddle or get splashed by an incoming car.

Plan your travels.
There are ways to avoid winter delays on any commute (and save yourself the trouble of making excuses for your chronic lateness). If you walk, see if you can find shortcuts around icy sidewalks or streets that haven’t been plowed yet. If you drive, keep yourself updated on traffic with the radio or the Internet, and find alternate routes before you leave the house. If you’re taking transit, get to know your routes and schedules and bring something to do in case you get stuck in traffic. But regardless of how you get to school, make sure to leave early to account for any possible delays that could come up.