Cold-Weather Travel Essentials That Are Actually Worth Packing

One of the major downsides of going on holiday during winter is that cold weather inevitably leads to bulky bags. After all, a fur coat necessarily takes up more space in your suitcase than a T-shirt or bikini.

Whatever kind of winter holiday you’re considering, whether it’s a city break or a ski trip, you’ll want to take packing efficiency seriously, and to avoid packing the things that you don’t really need. Let’s look at the things that really make a difference.

Layers That Work Together

In cold conditions, your clothes need to perform several distinct functions. They need to allow moisture to move away from your skin, but they also need to prevent heat from escaping. At the same time, they need to be mobile enough to keep you comfortable, and yet water-resistant enough to keep you dry.

This almost always means combining three distinct layers, rather than relying on a single heavy layer. The inner layer should deal with sweat, the middle layer should retain heat, and the outer layer should repel water (and snow).

Accessories That Make a Big Difference

Certain warming items can make a major difference to your ability to retain heat. The most useful ones tend to be those that protect your extremities. Fingers might be protected by gloves; toes might be covered by merino wool socks; scarves and hats might protect your head and neck. If you know that you’re going to be spending a lot of time outdoors, hand warmers can be a great investment, too.

Footwear Built for Winter Conditions

When water is allowed to permeate your shoes, it can be very bad news. You’ll suffer discomfort, or worse. For this reason, it’s worth prioritising a robust, dependable set of boots. Look for a pair that fits properly and offers excellent grip. The good news is that you can wear these as you travel, which means that you won’t need to worry about them taking up extra baggage space.

If you’re heading to a very cold part of the world, boots are a non-negotiable. A Norway cruise, for example, is always a great match for a good pair of boots.

Tech and Comfort Items

It’s worth noting that phone batteries drain a little bit faster when it’s cold. This makes a portable power bank a sensible investment. Keep those devices as close to your body as possible. Make sure also that you have a good supply of lip balm and hand cream. Freezing air tends to be very dry, which is bad news for our skin!