Surviving Cold Weather: Essential Tips and Inside Tricks for Market Traders
- All Thing's ACS
- Jan 31
- 4 min read
Cold weather can turn a typical day at the market into a challenging test of endurance. For market traders like myself who could spend hours outdoors, staying warm and comfortable is not just about convenience—it’s crucial for maintaining focus, energy, and ultimately, success. This guide shares practical tips and inside tricks that experienced market traders use to survive and thrive during the horrid and most certainly dreaded cold seasons.
Here are a Few Tips and Tricks for Market Traders
Dress Smart to Stay Warm
The foundation of surviving cold weather starts with the right clothing. Market traders know that layering is key. Instead of one bulky coat, wear multiple layers that trap heat and allow flexibility.
Base layer: Choose moisture-wicking fabrics like merino wool or synthetic blends. These keep sweat away from your skin, preventing chills.
Middle layer: Use insulating materials such as fleece to help retain body heat.
Outer layer: A windproof and waterproof jacket protects against cold winds and precipitation.
Don’t forget those all important accessories. Warm hats, gloves, and scarves protect extremities where heat loss is greatest. Insulated boots with good grip keep feet dry and prevent slips on icy surfaces. Not forgetting to invest in some nice warm insoles, or heated socks.
Use Portable Heat Sources
Market traders often rely on portable heat sources to stay warm during long hours outdoors. Small, reusable hand warmers are a popular choice. These compact packets can be slipped into gloves or pockets and provide heat for several hours.
Battery-powered heated gloves or insoles are another option. They offer consistent warmth and can be recharged daily. For traders who have a stall or booth, a small electric heater or heat lamp can make a big difference, especially during early mornings or late evenings. For anyone with no power supply I would highly recommend investing in a nice heated gillet, keeping your torso warm too is a must. The heated gillet can be charged as needed.
Plan Your Day Around Weather Conditions
Experienced market traders check weather forecasts carefully and plan their schedules accordingly. If possible, avoid setting up during the coldest parts of the day. Early morning and late night shifts can be the toughest, so consider shorter shifts, or rotating with colleagues where/if possible. We always work in pairs at the market, so one can stay with the stall whilst the other is on a break. Rotating when needing to.
When the forecast predicts extreme cold, prepare extra supplies such as thermal blankets, hot drinks in insulated bottles, and backup clothing. Staying flexible and ready to adapt helps reduce the impact of harsh weather.
Stay Active to Maintain Body Heat
Standing or sitting still for long periods can cause your body temperature to drop quickly. Market traders keep moving to generate heat and improve circulation.
Simple actions like pacing around the stall, doing light stretches, or even small exercises like toe raises/wiggles can even help. Take short walks during breaks to warm up. Staying active also keeps your mind alert and engaged with customers.
Eat and Drink for Warmth and Energy
Cold weather increases the body’s energy demands. Market traders fuel themselves with warm, nutritious meals and snacks throughout the day. Preferably food from home otherwise your day's profits will be eaten into before the end of the day.
Hot soups or stews provide both warmth and hydration. These can be kept warm in a decent flask.
Foods rich in protein and healthy fats, like nuts and cheese, offer sustained energy.
Avoid excessive caffeine or alcohol, which can cause dehydration and reduce body heat.
Drink warm beverages such as herbal tea or hot water with lemon to stay hydrated and comfortable. These can also be kept warm in a decent flask.
Carrying a thermos with a hot drink is a simple way to keep warm during busy market hours. We always carry tea bags and coffee with us, as most cafe's often help provide a flask top-up of hot water. We even take hot water bottles on colder days and get them topped up as and when needed.
Protect Your Equipment from Cold Damage
Cold weather can affect more than just your body. Market traders rely on equipment like cash registers, mobile devices, and scales that may malfunction in freezing temperatures.
Keep electronics insulated by storing them in padded cases or inside your clothing when not in use. Use weather-resistant covers for stalls and displays to shield products and equipment from snow or frost. Regularly check batteries, as the cold drains power much faster.
Close off your stall as much as possible; use the sides and back to your stall if you have them. This will help protract your stall/stock, and also help protect yourself from the wind/cold a little more.
Ground Insulation
Protect yourself from the cold/wet ground. Place cardboard, or even rubber mats on the ground where your standing/sitting, this will help to protect and barrier yourself from the cold that bit more. Make sure your footwear has a nice thick sole to help prevent the cold getting to your feet. Make sure they are sturdy and comfortable to be in all day.
Build a Support Network
Surviving cold weather is easier with support. Market traders often form informal groups to share tips, swap gear, or cover shifts during extreme weather.
Having a buddy system ensures someone is available to help if conditions worsen. Sharing resources like portable heaters or warm drinks can improve everyone’s comfort and safety.
Recognise Signs of Cold-Related Health Issues
Knowing when cold exposure becomes dangerous is vital. Market traders watch for symptoms of hypothermia and frostbite:
Shivering, confusion, or drowsiness
Numbness or pale/cold skin
Slurred speech or loss of coordination
Tingling or stinging sensation
If any signs appear, seek warmth immediately and get medical help if needed. Prioritising health prevents serious complications.
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