Traveling in Cold Weather: How to Pack and What to Take
Perhaps you’re tired of the usual, popular holiday destinations like Turkey, Egypt, or Cyprus, and your soul is yearning for a change of climate from warm to northern.
Perhaps you’ve long wanted to see “cold weather travel” European capitals like Helsinki, Stockholm, Oslo, Copenhagen, and similar cities. Whatever country you choose to explore—be it Canada, Norway, Finland, Switzerland, or the Baltics—you’ll inevitably be faced with the question of what to pack. What items should you consider to ensure your trip doesn’t end with memories of freezing temperatures?
Let’s find out what wardrobe items you need to pack. So, what should you pack for a comfortable “cold” trip?
Cold Weather Travel
1. A couple of T-shirts.
You can sleep in one T-shirt, and wear the other under a sweatshirt or sweater. Alternatively, you can replace one item with a tank top or polo shirt. The main thing is that the items are made of lightweight, breathable materials like polyester or cotton. During active recreation, you’ll appreciate their functionality.
2. Thermal underwear.
Thanks to its unique properties, it maintains a comfortable body temperature. So, you won’t be at risk of overheating or hypothermia if you wear this base layer. Choose an option based on your preferences: it could be leggings with a T-shirt, a tank top with shorts, or even socks.
3. A warm jacket or down jacket.
The thickness of this clothing will depend on the destination and weather conditions. Check the cold weather travel forecast in advance, as well as the climate of the country you’re visiting during your trip, to choose the optimal warm outerwear.
4. Windbreaker or raincoat.
Lightweight outerwear will be perfect when the weather warms up and the sun comes out. It’s compact, comfortable, and will protect you from the wind. If really rainy weather is expected, you can take a raincoat.
5. A pair of trousers.
It’s advisable to choose one made of a lightweight material like raincoat that dries quickly. For a second layer, thicker trousers are a great choice: they’ll save you in really cold weather. Consider the “transformer” bottoms, which are practically made for cold weather travels. These trousers have multiple pockets and can be easily converted into shorts. Leave your favorite jeans at home: they’re difficult to wash, take a long time to dry, and won’t keep out the cold.
6. A long skirt.
It’s very convenient for traveling: it’s warm, comfortable, and allows you to maintain your signature style, making you feel like a true woman.
7. A warm sweater and a couple of knit pullovers, preferably turtlenecks.
The first will help in cold weather and on long excursions, while the second will be just right if the weather is warm. Just make sure your outerwear doesn’t clash with your trousers or skirt. When traveling, it’s not just comfort and convenience that matter, but also a sense of style.
8. A fleece sweatshirt.
It’s convenient to wear on a train, air-conditioned bus, or plane. It’s best to choose a sweatshirt with a zipper so you can layer it underneath if needed.
9. A pair of thick wool socks.
They’ll keep your feet warm if the climate is harsh or you’re planning nature excursions.
10. 4-5 pairs of thin cotton socks.
They’re comfortable, practical, and easy to wash. When paired with wool socks, a pair of thin socks creates a layered effect, keeping your feet warm.
11. A suitable set of a warm
hat, scarf, and durable, warm mittens or gloves.
12. Swimsuit.
If there’s a chance to go swimming during your trip, be sure to take it. Just remember to pack a quick-drying swimsuit.
13. Footwear. Footwear
should be appropriate for the climate, planned routes cold weather travel, and the mode of transportation you’ll be using. For example, trekking boots are good for mountain hikes and nature excursions. For city walks, warm, comfortable footwear like boots or flat shoes, preferably with a high sole, is better. If sneakers are more comfortable, opt for them. It’s also a good idea to pack lightweight sandals, which will come in handy when traveling by ground transportation.
Of course, in addition to the necessary warm clothing, it’s important to think about other components of a comfortable and enjoyable trip. So, don’t forget your camera and charger, as well as a first aid kit. In the latter case, make sure you have antiviral, antipyretic, and vasoconstrictor medications. Generally speaking, it’s worth remembering the well-worn saying: “There’s no such thing as bad weather,” so any conditions can easily be compensated for with modern equipment. And if you don’t want to pack a lot, you can buy the necessary clothing right there. Unless, of course, you’re heading to the North Pole.
