Winter is coming, will you be prepared?

With winter fast approaching, there is only one thing on my mind: preparation. I was born in the summer and have loved summer my entire life. Winter? Not so much. So, if you are a summer-lover like me, here is a list of winter needs to help ease your panicked mind.

Clothing must-haves:

1. Sweaters/Coats

You'll definitely need to be layering it up when you're outside. Target has tons of cute pullover sweaters in various patterns. If you're looking for something warmer, American Eagle has this really cozy windproof parka.

2. Beanies

Beanies are great for the cold weather, especially if you're having a bad hair day. Neff Headwear has a ton of different beanies to fit with anyone's style!

3. Headbands/Earmuffs

If you aren't a fan of beanies but still want to keep your ears warm, the Turtle Fur brand can be your savior. Check out their collection of earmuffs and cold-weather headbands here.

4. Fleece-lined Leggings

I only recently discovered that these exist, and I think I may get a pair (or two)! JCPenney has a few colors and patterns of fleece-lined leggings to select from, at a great price.

5. Scarves

Another must-have: scarves. They're cute and functional. Head over to Aerie to check out the collection of winter scarves.

6. Gloves/Mittens

Don't let your hands freeze! Target offers a wide range of gloves and mittens, including this amazing pair of touchscreen compatible leather gloves. (I tested them in the store and they do work, even through my Otterbox!)

7. Boots

DSW is the place to go for boots. They aren't going to break your bank as severely, and they have a great variety. I got this pair of Bandolino boots last year and they're very comfortable, even walking around campus.

8. Boot socks/Leg warmers

When it's below freezing outside, boots alone won't cut it. Pair them along with some legwarmers, over-the-knees or boot socks from American Eagle to keep your legs and toes warm.

Other helpful items:

1. Space heater

If your heater just isn't doing its job right, or if you want heat in a specific area, space heaters are a good idea. They come in all different sizes to fit into different spaces. This space heater comes in a few colors and would be good for a smaller living area like a dorm room.

2. Hot chocolate

Hot chocolate is my best friend on cold winter mornings when I have to brave the weather and walk to class, and it's good to bring to Christmas parties. If you're looking for some cocoa to heat up really quick, Walmart sells hot chocolate in containers that give you more bang for your buck. If you want to make a delicious but easy crowd-pleaser, this is the Crock Pot recipe for you.

3. Blankets

I've got more than enough, but I still like to feel blankets when I'm in stores. Target has blankets to fit every bed size, as well as heated blankets. This Xhilaration blanket fits my full-size bed perfectly and is super soft!

4. Hot Hands

These hot hands are wonderful to use if you'll be outdoors for a while. The heat lasts up to 10 hours. They'll fit into your gloves or pockets to keep your hands nice and warm.

5. A Thermos

Perfect for your hot chocolate or coffee, a Thermos will prevent heat from escaping your drink into the cold air.