If the last few weeks are anything to go by, the ‘24 winter season is officially upon us. Whether it's dusting off that trusty bomber, resisting the urge to crawl into bed at 6pm, or prolonging your exit from the shower for an extra five, it's all too easy to sink into the winter blues. But hey, just because you've swapped your iced long black for a tall cap doesn’t mean you have to hibernate. We've teamed up with our mates at Battery World to bring you the ultimate guide to not just surviving, but absolutely thriving in Sydney this winter.
From the best ways to stay toasty on your morning commute to comfort feeds so good they'll keep you warm and fuzzy for hours.
Read on as we share our top tips to beat the chill and ensure that this winter in Sydney is your best yet.
Invest In Layers That Last
This time of year calls for a wardrobe revamp, particularly when it comes to those early morning commutes on the Manly ferry. Invest in layers that'll last beyond just a season, like this Cleo Trench from KowTow. Made from sustainable cotton by the beloved Kiwi brand, it's the perfect transitional piece.
For something on the bolder side, this Em On Holiday Forever Yours Cardigan is an absolute winner. You can also make an impact with the Power Knit from Clothing The Gaps. It's a limited winter drop for the brand, and it’s ally-friendly.
Tuck Into A Few Comfort Feeds
If you're anything like us, there are few things in winter that a heartwarming feed and copious amounts of caffeine can’t fix. Whether you're ramen obsessed, a toastie connoisseur or after a good old Sunday roast, there's no better way to fight those gloomy days than with a happy belly.
In search of a sunny seaside nook? The odds are in your favour—our city's packed to the brim with stellar spots for a top-tier flattie and a piping hot pastry. Rollers in Manly offer buttery layers you will dream of for days to come. And because one coffee is never enough, take a stroll to the newly opened Noon and wash down those crispy flakes with their signature Tahini Latte.
For brothy bowls of goodness, Sydney’s Haymarket is the best friend you never knew you needed. Gumshara arguably reigns as the area's OG—the umami masterpieces served at this bustling classic are the careful work of Japanese expat Mori Higashida, a man whose career was built off of his dissatisfaction with Sydney’s ramen scene.
Our final contender for an escape from the icy temps had to come between two thick slices of buttery bread. This week's Sanga of Syd has to come from the one and only Self Raised—picture slow-cooked beef brisket, mustard seed mayo, chimichurri, house cheese mix, topped with caramelised onions, and served toasted.
Book In A Car Battery Check
Fun fact: car batteries (like us) are sensitive to the weather, and there’s nothing worse than racing to your car on a frosty morning and being faced with a dead battery. Luckily, the legends over at Battery World offer up free* car battery checks, with experts on hand to help in stores all over the country. So if you tick one thing off the list this winter, make sure you head into your nearest Battery World for a checkup or book your car battery check online. With the power and reliability of their top-of-the-range batteries, they'll help make hard winter mornings that little bit easier.
Keep On Moving
We hate to admit it, but keeping active in the winter can have a heap of benefits for your physical and mental well-being. Not only does it keep those endorphins high, but can help boost your immune system to keep cold and flu season at bay.
From reformer pilates to boxing on a bike, ride those endorphins all winter long with a group class at the fitness jungle known more formally as One Playground. Dotted through Marrickville, Surry Hills, and Newtown, your daily sweat sesh will become the best excuse for a morning matcha on your way out.
For those days when not even the wheat bag and fuzzy sock combo will do the trick, head into Rimba Sweat and experience a sauna paradise like none other. Grab your water bottle, pop on Netflix, and sweat out all your seasonal sorrows. After an hour of pure bliss, leave your private sauna suite with a sense of inner calm that not even Sydney’s slowest walkers could upset.
Or, if you’re looking to save some pennies this winter, Move With Nicole has heaps of free classes and weekly releases on YouTube. Follow through beginner to expert-level classes, all from the comfort of your living room floor.
Get Crafty
While those big glassy windows might be your saving grace when the sun is shining, there's no denying that as soon as the clock strikes 5pm, even the best of Sydney’s homes enter their ice box era. An exxy space heater might not be on the cards for you just yet, but there's plenty of other ways to block the chill.
Fashion a draft stopper from any material you have lying around, or craft a pool noodle to block the cold air from sneaking through under your doors. And to really keep the heat in, we suggest picking up some rolls of heavy fabric and whipping up some DIY drapes for around the house.
Ready to power through the cooler months? Book in a free* car battery check with Battery World and start your mornings off right this winter.
*Conditions apply.
Editor’s note: This article is sponsored by Battery World and proudly endorsed by Urban List. Thank you for supporting the sponsors who make Urban List possible. Click here for more information on our editorial policy.
Image Credit: Urban List