The Ultimate Snow Day Checklist

Being snowed in can be cozy, safe and lots of fun.

A surprise snow-in is more than a change of plans, it’s also a chance to see how ready you are for a winter emergency. Childhood snow days might have meant hot chocolate and sledding, but adulthood calls for a slightly different approach. With the right essentials on hand, a stormy day at home can feel less like an interruption and more like an opportunity to slow down.

Start with the basics of comfort and safety. A stash of candles, extra batteries and portable charging banks will keep the lights on… and your devices connected if the power flickers out. Keep a well-stocked pantry with non-perishable food items and a few easy-to-prepare meals so you won’t have to venture out when the roads are at their worst. 

Don’t forget about your car. Keeping a shovel, blanket and emergency kit close at hand, but neatly out of the way, ensures you’re ready when it’s safe to head back out.

Beyond the practical, there’s also value in adding a few fun comforts to your snow day plan. Experiment with a cozy drink you’ve been meaning to try, like homemade chai or a spiced latte, and pull out a board game or puzzle. Try a creative outlet like painting, knitting or starting a craft project you’ve always put off. It could be as simple as printing photos for an album, writing in a journal or finally diving into that book waiting on your nightstand. 

Snow days create space for those little things you never seem to have enough time for. By combining practical essentials with a few comforts and activities you genuinely enjoy, a snow-in can feel less disruptive and more like a welcome pause in your routine.