Montana Winter Survival Guide: 13 Things You Need to Know

The fall season has arrived in Montana, and winter isn't far behind. For many, this time of year is a time of preparation to ensure that you have everything you need for the cold months ahead. Enjoy the warm days while you can because we all know that they won't last long.

Important Winter Items You Need in Montana

When winter finally shows up in Montana, it usually makes a ferocious entrance. More often than not, people are unprepared. According to Montana State Law, it is legal for residents to have studded snow tires on vehicles between October 1 - May 31. It's important to not wait until the last minute to get snow tires mounted on your vehicle.

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No matter how long you've lived in Montana, the winters are still brutal. Granted, some are far worse than others.

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It's best to prepare for winter before it actually arrives. If you wait, most stores run low on certain products and you may have difficulty finding what you need. To help you get ready, here are 13 essential items that you'll need this winter in Montana.

13. Quality Snow Shovel or Snowblower

Removing snow from driveways and sidewalks is a constant in Montana during the winter. You'll need a heavy-duty snow shovel or snowblower to get the job done.

12. Warm Clothing and Waterproof Coat

Dressing in layers is crucial during the winter in Montana. It's best to have a base layer, a middle layer, and an outer layer. The outer layer should be wind and water-resistant.

11. Waterproof Boots

Keeping your feet dry is a top priority during the winter. A good quality pair of insulated waterproof boots is a must!

10. Warm Socks

Wool socks are your best friend during the winter in Montana. You literally can't own enough pairs of wool socks if you live in Montana. Luckily, they are hard to find.

9. A Good Ice Scraper

It's important to invest in a quality ice scraper because you'll be scraping ice off your windshield almost every morning during the winter in Montana. Don't be the person trying to scrape your windshield with an old CD case.

8. Winter Travel Emergency Kit

If your car breaks down during the winter in Montana, the last thing you want is to be unprepared. It's important to put together a winter emergency kit for your vehicle just in case you need it.

7. All-Wheel Drive or 4-Wheel Drive

An all-wheel drive vehicle or a vehicle with 4-wheel drive will make your life much easier during the winter in Montana. When the road gets covered with snow and ice, you'll be thankful you have it.

6. Windshield Wiper Fluid With De-Icer

During the winter, you go through a lot of windshield wiper fluid. Make sure you're stocked up, and that your wipers are in good condition.

5. A Good Set of Snow Tires

Snow tires are a must during the winter. If the tires on your vehicle are bald, you're going to have a bad time. Don't wait until the last minute to get snow tire mounted on your vehicle.

4. Gloves or Mittens

Winters in Montana are extremely cold and it's important to not have any exposed skin or you might end up with frostbite. Make sure you have a good pair of gloves to keep your hand warm and dry.

3. Extra Blankets

If you want to stay warm and cozy during the winter in Montana, you need to have a few extra blankets laying around in case you need them. It's a good idea to add a blanket or two to your winter emergency kit and throw them in your vehicle.

2. Ice Melter For Your Driveway and Sidewalks

1. Patience

Driving during the winter can be a nightmare in Montana. Don't expect to get anywhere fast. Give yourself extra time to reach your destination and expect delays. It's important to be patient.