1. Change your tyres

Winter tyres (or all-weather tyres) are mandatory in case of snow, ice, frost or black ice--there’s no fixed start or end date. This isn’t tied to a fixed date--it’s a “situational obligation”. Tyres must have the markings M+S or the three-peak mountain snowflake symbol, and you need four of the same type. The police recommend switching from October to Easter. Fines apply if you’re caught unprepared.

2. Get your boiler serviced

Boiler maintenance is not just good practice--it’s a legal requirement. If you have  solid and liquid fuel installations, it must be inspected every two years; for gas installations, the rule is every four years. These mandatory checks, carried out by certified technicians, help prevent breakdowns, improve efficiency and reduce safety risks. Annual servicing is still recommended for peace of mind.

3. Keep energy bills under control

Heating your home efficiently matters. Lower the thermostat by 1 to 2°C, close shutters or curtains at night, and block draughts around windows and doors. Bleed your radiators and avoid placing furniture in front of them. For added savings, wear warm indoor layers and consider switching to LED bulbs or using programmable thermostats.

4. Know your tenant rights (and duties)

If you live in a house or ground-floor flat, you may be legally required to clear snow and ice from the pavement in front of your home. The commune can fine you if someone slips.

5. Prep your winter wardrobe

Luxembourg winters are wet, not just cold. Invest in waterproof shoes, a proper coat with a hood, and thermal base layers. Wool socks, gloves and a scarf will also go a long way in keeping you warm. Umbrellas don’t last long in the wind and rarely survive more than a week.

6. Send parcels to a pick-up point

Missed deliveries are even more annoying when it’s freezing outside. Instead of staying home all day, send your parcels to a pick-up point. Services like PackUp by Post, DHL Packstation, Amazon Locker, Mondial Relay and InPost let you collect your packages when it suits you--day or night. Parcels usually stay in lockers for five to seven days, giving you time to grab them when it’s convenient. No more soggy boxes on your doorstep or slip risks on the stairs.

7. Stay informed with LU-Alert

Snowstorm coming? Black ice on the roads? LU-Alert, Luxembourg’s official public warning system, keeps you informed. You’ll receive real-time notifications via the app--and automatic SMS alerts in serious cases, even without signing up.

This article was written for the August/September 2025 issue of Paperjam magazine (Expat Guide), published on 10 July. The content is produced exclusively for the magazine. It is published on the site to contribute to the full Paperjam archive. Click this link to subscribe to the magazine.

Is your company a member of Paperjam Club? You can request a subscription in your name. Let us know via club@paperjam.lu