[This post is from Winter Commuting Blogger Monica P who's writing to help others Conquer the Cold this winter]

The most important thing is winter commuting requires good shoes. It’s very uncomfortable to have cold soggy feet all day. Some people keep extra shoes at work, or carry them in, which is nice, but you still don’t want to put wet, cold feet into those shoes.

One thing people often don’t realize the importance of is layers. It seems like you’re going to freeze, so you want to wear the closest thing you have to a down comforter. But one thick puffy coat that encases you and doesn’t let any cold air in isn’t going to work — you’ll get sweaty going up hills and then that sweat will make you feel cold and little bit crazy going down hills.

A portable music/podcast device is nice to have.  Or a book, if you’re busing it.

And it’s nice to plan an extra 15 minutes or more for your commute. If you’re taking the bus, you’ll definitely need it in the winter because there are unpredictable delays (just like those that happen when you drive). I’m still working on this one, but when I get it right, I’m always reminded how lovely it is to actually be early for something.

For those of us with desk jobs, sometimes winter can be nicer when you’re out in it than when you’re looking at it from indoors. As long as you’re able to wind down, listen to a podcast or two, enjoy some of your favorite music, or even catch up on some phone calls…commuting can be a nice way to manage winter blues.