Winters in Montana can be brutal. Each year, temperatures in Montana drop well below zero during the winter months.

Sub-zero temperatures can be extremely dangerous if you spend too much time outdoors. They can also do a lot of damage to vehicles and homes. In recent years, many people from different states have relocated to Montana, and are often blindsided by the harsh winter conditions that are typical in the state.

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We reached out to members of the Bozeman Reddit page to ask for a few cold weather survival tips from folks that have quite a bit of experience when it comes to dealing with frigid temperatures and being prepared during the winter in Montana.

Much of the information that was shared is very helpful, especially if you're new to Montana. Most Montanans have been through winters that are much worse than what we've been experiencing so far this year.

Here are a few important cold weather survival tips from people that actually live in Montana.

Keep your gas tank as full as possible. Don't drive around with 1/4 of a tank if you can help it. You never know when you might get stranded and the heat from idling might come in handy.

said TheCountRushmore.

Always keep a sleeping bag or wool blanket in the back seat (not the trunk), in case you break down in winter. Bring water on any long drive, but obviously don't leave it in the car.

said runningoutofowords.

Keep a tow strap handy. Even if you can't pull others out, somebody might be able to pull you out if the ditch of you slide off. You're never far from some dude with a 4x4 pickup in Montana. Also, make sure your battery is healthy: replace it if it's old, and if possible keep it plugged into a trickle charger when not in use.

said lumberjackninja.

I hear Florida’s nice this time of year. In fact, Miami is about 100°f warmer than Bozeman today.

said Helpinmontana.

Dress in layers don’t just put on one singular heavy jacket, I was out in this weather for like 5 hours straight yesterday and that’s what saved my life.

said montananhooman.

Bring snacks, water, extra clothes and a warm blanket or sleeping bag in case you break down or get stuck. It's also never a bad idea to wear leggings or long underwear underneath jeans. More layers = more body heat retention.

said mountainwestsnooki.

What cold weather survival tips would you add to the list? Click here to read the full list of responses on the Bozeman Reddit page.

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