11 Pieces Of Sage Advice Every Longtime Kansan Would Give To New Residents

Living in Kansas isn't hard, but there are a few things you might want to know. It's a fantastic state to live in, full of friendly people and plenty of adventure. We don't need mountains or oceans to make this place beautiful, either. What we have is stunning as it is. Here's some advice from longtime Kansans to anyone wanting to live here.

1. Live somewhere where you can watch the sun set.

It's something you might not think about when picking a home, but you'll be pleasantly surprised once you realize how beautiful they are.

2. Pick a town or city with family owned restaurants.

Try them, too! Before you move in, make sure you feel right at home at local restaurants.

3. Throw out your compact umbrellas and get the strongest one you can find.

The first time your umbrella goes inside out and gets ruined, you'll realize why you need an extra strong one.

4. Always nail down your tent or your camping spot might get relocated.

With your belongings inside it, of course. Whoosh!

5. If you have long hair, always be prepared with a hair tie.

It's even worse if you're wearing lip gloss, because then you're eating your hair on top of being blind.

6. Learn to do a little wave when you meet eyes with people on the road.

You can take your hand off the wheel if you like, but most of these little waves are done in the few seconds of eye contact at a red light or while passing on small town streets.

7. If you don't have a truck, get a friend with one.

One day you'll need one, I promise. Plus, they're great for stargazing in.

8. Bug spray and sunscreen are essential things for both summer and fall.

The sun and mosquitoes like to stick around whenever they can! I'd rather smell like bug spray than have all those bites on me anyways.

9. Get to know your neighbors, they may one day be your best friend.

Maybe just start with "Hey."

10. Small talk is boring. We all talk about the weather, but we'd much rather hear about where you're from and who your family is.

You'll be surprised to hear that your new acquaintance went to high school with a distant relative of yours. You never know the connections you can have!

11. Don't be afraid to explore, because not everything's as flat as you think it is. There's unexpected adventures everywhere you look.

Kansas is a gorgeous landscape full of hills, rock formations, and plenty of wildlife. Just pick a direction and go!

If you have more advice, add it in the comments below! There's a lot of stereotypes out there about Kansas and its residents, but don't let them fool you. This is a great state with even better people. Even if some of the stereotypes are a little true.