Weather & Clothing Guide
Europe is much colder than Bangladesh. Learn what temperatures to expect, what clothes to buy, and how to prepare for your first European winter.
- Temperature ranges by European region
- Winter and summer clothing lists
- What to buy in Bangladesh vs in Europe
- Practical tips for surviving cold weather
Weather & Clothing Guide
What to expect from European weather and what to wear — practical advice for workers coming from Bangladesh.
Winter Clothing
- Heavy insulated winter coat (rated to -20 C)
- Thermal base layers (top and bottom)
- Wool sweaters and fleece mid-layers
- Insulated waterproof winter boots with grip
- Thick wool socks (2-3 pairs minimum)
- Insulated gloves or mittens
- Warm hat covering ears
- Scarf or neck warmer
Summer Clothing
- Light jacket or hoodie (evenings can be cool)
- T-shirts and casual shirts
- Jeans or chinos
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Rain jacket (summer rain is common)
- Sunglasses (long daylight hours)
Practical Tips
- Winters are dark — only 6-7 hours of daylight in December. Consider vitamin D supplements.
- Invest in proper winter boots with non-slip soles. Ice on pavements is very common.
- Layer your clothing rather than wearing one thick layer. This lets you adjust to indoor heating.
- Black ice is invisible and extremely dangerous. Walk like a penguin — small steps, flat feet.
- Central heating is very effective in Nordic countries. Indoor temperature is usually 20-22 C even when it is -15 outside.
Winter Clothing
- Medium-weight winter coat
- Thermal innerwear for cold days
- Warm sweaters and hoodies
- Waterproof boots or shoes
- Gloves, scarf, and beanie
- Umbrella (rain is frequent)
Summer Clothing
- T-shirts and light shirts
- Shorts and light trousers
- Comfortable shoes or sneakers
- Light rain jacket
- Sunscreen (UV is strong in summer)
Practical Tips
- Weather changes quickly — always carry an umbrella or rain jacket.
- Wind chill makes it feel much colder than the thermometer shows, especially in the Netherlands.
- Heatwaves are becoming more common in summer. Many older buildings do not have air conditioning.
- Dress in layers for work — factories and warehouses may not be well heated in winter.
- Cycling is very common. If you cycle, you need waterproof gear and reflective clothing for winter.
Winter Clothing
- Heavy winter coat (continental winters are harsh)
- Thermal base layers
- Wool socks and insulated boots
- Thick gloves and warm hat
- Scarf for face protection in wind
- Layered clothing for temperature variation
Summer Clothing
- Light cotton clothing
- Shorts and sandals
- Sun hat for outdoor work
- Light breathable work clothing
- Sunscreen and water bottle
Practical Tips
- Continental climate means extreme seasons — very cold winters and hot summers.
- Poland and Czech Republic winters can reach -20 C. Do not underestimate this.
- Construction and agricultural workers must have proper cold weather gear provided by the employer.
- Summer temperatures above 30 C are common. Stay hydrated during outdoor work.
- Air quality can be poor in winter due to coal heating in some areas.
Winter Clothing
- Medium-weight jacket or coat
- Sweaters and long-sleeve shirts
- Closed shoes (not sandals)
- Light scarf for cooler evenings
- Waterproof jacket for rainy season
Summer Clothing
- Very light, breathable clothing
- Wide-brimmed hat for sun protection
- UV-protective sunglasses
- Light-colored work clothing
- Comfortable sandals or breathable shoes
- High-SPF sunscreen (essential)
Practical Tips
- Summer heat can exceed 40 C. Outdoor workers must take breaks and drink plenty of water.
- Siesta culture exists in Spain and parts of Italy — shops may close during the hottest hours.
- Northern Italy and mountain areas can be surprisingly cold in winter.
- UV radiation is very strong. Skin that has never been exposed to this intensity will burn quickly.
- Employers must provide shade, water, and rest breaks during extreme heat. This is a legal requirement.
Coming from Bangladesh — Key Differences
Climate Shock
- Bangladesh average winter is 15-20 degrees Celsius — most of Europe drops below 0 degrees in winter
- Humidity in Bangladesh is 70-90% — Europe is much drier, especially indoors with heating
- Daylight hours vary drastically — winter days can be as short as 6-8 hours in Northern Europe
- Rain in Europe is light but frequent — not the heavy monsoon rain you are used to
- Central heating makes indoor air very dry — you may need moisturizer and lip balm
What to Buy
Buy Before You Leave
- Thermal innerwear (cheaper in Bangladesh)
- Good quality socks (wool blend)
- Lightweight waterproof jacket
- Comfortable walking shoes
Buy After You Arrive
- Heavy winter coat (buy locally for proper insulation rating)
- Winter boots (need to fit local conditions)
- Gloves, scarf, and winter hat (better quality available in Europe)
- Umbrella (compact folding type common in Europe)
Your body will take 2-4 weeks to adjust to the cold. Layer your clothing and stay warm — hypothermia is a real danger if you are not prepared.