The Best Winter Travel Clothes For Cold Destinations
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Did you know that 23% of Americans prefer winter vacations and many winter destinations are already booked out? If you’re lucky enough to be going on a winter vacation, congratulations! You’re in for a treat.
Before you start packing your bags, you need to make sure to pack some warm winter clothes. But what exactly should be on your winter travel packing list? How can you be prepared for cold weather travel in freezing temperatures while still packing light?
This blog post is about the best winter travel clothes for cold destinations. We’ll give you some ideas about winter travel essentials to pack on your winter trips. Let’s get started.
The Importance of Layering Your Winter Clothes
Layering is one of the most important things to remember when packing for a cold weather trip. Dressing in layers is the best way to trap body heat and stay warm in cold weather, whether you’re doing winter sports or just exploring a new city.
When layering your clothing, start with a base layer of something like a long-sleeved shirt or leggings made from a material that will wick away sweat. Then, add a middle layer of something like a sweater or light jacket for insulation. Finally, top it off with a coat or parka to protect you from the elements.
The Best Materials for Winter Travel Clothing
When it comes to fabrics of great winter travel clothes, there are a few that are better suited for winter travel than others. Wool is an excellent choice for both base and middle layers as it’s warm, breathable, and moisture-resistant.
For your outer layer, something waterproof is ideal. Down is also a good choice for insulation and is extremely lightweight, but ensure it’s properly treated, so it doesn’t get wet.
Some other materials to consider for winter travel clothes include:
- Fleece – warm, lightweight, and dries quickly
- Cashmere – warmer than wool but not as durable
- Silk – warm, lightweight, and breathable
- Nylon – durable and water-resistant
- Polyester – inexpensive and dries quickly
There is no single “best” material for winter travel clothing. It depends on your preferences and the type of climate you’ll be traveling in. However, we recommend wool or synthetic fabrics for the base layer, fleece or down for the middle layer, and nylon or polyester for the outer layer. These materials are all durable, warm, and breathable, which will help you stay comfortable in cold weather.
When choosing your clothing for winter travel, it’s important to consider the weight and bulk of your clothes. Heavy, bulky clothes can be difficult to pack and carry and can take up a lot of space in your luggage.
Layers are key when dressing for winter weather, so choose clothing that can be easily layered. Lightweight, breathable fabrics are a good choice for base layers, while thicker, more insulating materials are better for middle and outer layers.
Tips For Dressing Stylishly In Cold Weather
Just because you’re dressing for the cold doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice style. There are plenty of ways to stay warm and look good at the same time.
Here are a few tips for dressing stylishly in cold weather:
- Choose timeless pieces that can be mixed and matched.
- Stick to a neutral color palette.
- Invest in quality pieces that will last.
- Add a pop of color or pattern with your accessories.
- Layer, layer, layer!
With these tips in mind, you’ll be sure to stay warm and look good no matter where your winter travels take you.
Must-Have Items for Any Winter Travel Wardrobe
There are some must-have items for any winter travel wardrobe. These include:
A Heavy Winter Coat
A heavy coat is essential for any winter vacation, even if you’re going somewhere with milder weather. A heavy coat will keep you warm when you’re out and about exploring your destination. If you’re traveling in a colder climate, pack a coat that will protect you from the elements.
A Scarf, Hat, and Gloves
Hats, scarves, and gloves can make a big difference in how comfortable you are in cold weather. Choose items that are easy to pack and won’t take up too much space in your luggage.
Warm Boots
You’ll want a good pair of boots that can handle wet and icy conditions. If you’re planning on doing any hiking or other outdoor activities, make sure to pack boots that will support your feet and keep them dry.
Thermal Underwear
Warm underwear is a must-have for anyone traveling in a cold climate. Thermal underwear will help keep you warm, even if you get wet from snow or rain. Our favorite brands are Icebreaker and Minus33. Both brands use high-quality merino wool that is soft, breathable, and durable.
Sweaters And Sweatshirts
A cozy sweater or sweatshirt is essential for any cold weather trip. Sweaters are great for layering under your coat when it’s cold outside. They also come in handy when you’re exploring indoor attractions since many buildings tend to be cooler than outside temperatures.
Cold Weather Pants
If you’re looking for pants that will keep you warm in cold weather, we recommend packing a pair of insulated, water-resistant pants. These pants are great for skiing, snowboarding, and other outdoor activities in cold weather. They’ll keep you warm and dry while enjoying the winter scenery.
We also recommend packing a pair of regular jeans or another type of travel pants you can wear in case it gets warmer during your trip. It’s always a good idea to have a few different options to prepare for any weather conditions.
Long Johns
Long Johns are an essential piece of clothing for anyone traveling to a cold climate. Long underwear keeps you warm in cold climates, even if you get wet from snow or rain. They’re versatile pieces of clothing that can be worn as a base layer under your clothes or on their own. Long Johns will come in handy no matter what winter activities you have planned. They’re a must-have for anyone traveling to a cold climate, as they’ll keep you warm even if you get wet.
Warm Socks
Nothing is worse than having cold feet when trying to enjoy a winter vacation. Make sure you pack a good pair of warm socks, like these wool ones from SmartWool. They’ll keep your feet warm no matter how cold it is outside. We’ve tried a lot of different brands of socks, and in our opinion, SmartWool socks are the best.
They’re durable, they wick away moisture, and they’re super soft. Plus, they come in a variety of colors and styles, so you can find the perfect pair to suit your taste. So before you head out on your next winter adventure, make sure you pack a good pair of SmartWool socks. Your feet will thank you!
Fleece Jacket
A fleece jacket is a great choice for a winter travel coat. It’s warm, it’s comfortable, and it’s lightweight, so it won’t take up too much space in your suitcase. We like this one from Patagonia because it has a cozy hood to keep your head warm, and it’s made from recycled materials. Plus, it comes in a bunch of different colors, so you can find the perfect one to match your style.
Sunglasses
Sunglasses are essential for any winter vacation, even if you’re not planning on spending time in the sun. The sun can reflect off of the snow, causing a glare that can damage your eyes. Sunglasses will also help reduce eye fatigue. We recommend a good pair of polarized sunglasses, like these from Maui Jim. They’re light and comfortable, and they’ll help you see clearly no matter how bright the sun is.
How to Pack Your Winter Travel Clothes
Now that you know what to pack, it’s time to figure out how to pack it all. A good method is sorting your clothes by type and packing them in separate packing cubes. For example, use one luggage cube for your base layers, one for your pants, one for your winter accessories, and so on. This will help you stay organized and make it easy to find what you need when you’re on the go.
Another important tip is to roll your clothes instead of folding them. This will save space in your suitcase and prevent wrinkles. Simply fold each piece of clothing in half lengthwise, then roll it up tightly. Read more here on how to roll your clothes for packing cubes.
Some other expert packing tips are:
- Pack light: This may seem like a challenge when taking a winter trip, but with layering and versatile clothing items, you can pack light and avoid checked baggage fees.
- Wear your heaviest items on the plane: This includes your winter coat, boots, and any other heavy winter gear. This will save valuable space in your suitcase.
Conclusion
By packing the right clothes, you can enjoy your winter vacation without having to worry about being cold or uncomfortable. Just make sure to pack items that will keep you warm while still being practical for exploring your winter destination.
Do some research ahead of time so you know what the weather conditions will be like during your trip, as conditions can vary greatly from place to place and year to year. With a little planning, you can have a great time and make the most of your winter vacation. Happy winter vacation!
