When taking trips to cold weather destinations, you’ll need to dress warmly; but feeling stylish, warm, and managing to fit everything in a suitcase, can cause a few packing dilemmas.
The key to packing for a winter trip is lots of layers, stylish coats, and quality outerwear. If you choose your layers wisely, you’ll have great pieces you can mix and match for a stylish winter look!
Use my packing ideas below, but revise as needed based on weather for your own trip to a cold-weather destination!
What to Pack for a Cold-Weather Trip
Essentials
1. Knit Cap // You’ll definitely need something warm on the top of your head.
2. Chunky Scarf // Pack a nice chunky scarf to keep you warm.
3. Winter Gloves // It’s cold. If they have touchscreen pads (like this pair) it’s a huge bonus so you don’t need to take them off to snap photos on from your smartphone.
4. Wool Socks // Trust me on this, invest in some heavy wool socks. They wick away moisture and keep your feet dry and warm.
5. Wide Brim Hat // Not only do hats add warmth — they add some style.
Outerwear
6. Heavy Coat // Depending on how cold your destination will be, don’t skimp on a nice, heavy coat or parka.
7. Ski Gear // Snowboarding in California (where I’m from) doesn’t always require a heavy ski coat, but if you plan to ski or snowboard, bring a warmer, waterproof ski or snowboarding jacket and pants.
8. Fleece Pullover // A soft fleece pullover is the perfect balance of comfort and durability when temperatures aren’t too cold.
9. Stylish Coat // Depending on where you’re headed, you may want to look nice to go out to eat or grab a cocktail. Don’t forget a few stylish pieces!
10. Poncho // I love ponchos for easy winter style. Get a nice wool poncho to pair with jeans or leggings for an easy day to night look.
11. Faux Fur Vest // A warm vest is the perfect, stylish layer.
Layers
12. & 13. Long Sleeve Tees // The key to staying cold weather is layering. Bring some basic long sleeves, and a comfy sweatshirt, to add or remove throughout the day and night.
14. Denim Shirt // A denim shirt adds warmth, and goes with everything!
15. Swimsuit // Two words: hot springs. You destination may have an awesome spa where you can lounge.
Pants
16. Black Denim & Dark Denim// Black jeans are super versatile for any outfit.
17. Active Leggings // Whether you’re hiking or skiing, activewear leggings are the perfect under or outer layer.
18. Fleece-lined Leggings // Fleece leggings are life-savers. On adventurous days, you can wear under a pair of pants. Or, you can wear them with a long sweater or dress to stay warm.
Shoes
19. Waterproof Boots // Tall boots in case there’s snow or rain. Make sure they’re waterproof!
20. Combat Boots // A shorter boot for every day wear, and most activities.
Planning for Seattle and Vancouver very soon. This was so timely. Thank you!
Cold weather clothes can be so boring, but you actually look so cute in it.