Packing for a vacation in the cold weather can be difficult, especially if you have to travel light. You will want enough items to keep you warm, but with limited luggage space, you have to take care not to pack unnecessary things. We all tend to pack things ‘in case’ we need them, but often so much of what we take comes back without being used.
Make A Packing list
Start by making a list of things you think you will need for the duration of your stay. There will be obvious things that everyone needs such as clean underwear for each day and nightwear. Then consider what you will be doing while you are away. Will you need to dress for dinner, for example, or is your vacation something less formal? Although you will always want to look good, remember that sometimes it is more important to be warm.
Appropriate Wear For Your Vacation
The type of vacation you are going on can dictate some of the things you need to pack. For instance, if your choice was to stay at one of Guest Reservations top ski destinations, you will need appropriate clothing for the ski slopes. If you chose an ice skating break you will need clothes that are suitable to wear while you are skating. You have to consider these things before you pack anything else.
Mix And Match Your Clothes
If your trip is for two weeks, you do not need to take fourteen sweaters, fourteen pairs of pants and a different hat, scarf, and gloves for each day. You can mix and match what you wear, and take a lot less than that. Three pairs of pants should be enough, although you may want to pack maybe seven tops. The tops are best if they fall below your hips, and for extra warmth, you should layer them. Take one top that is a bit dressier, just in case you want some more special to wear in the evening.
Thermal Underwear is a Must
Thermal underwear is great for keeping you warm and will take up very little space when you are packing. The beauty of thermal underwear is that it is so light and thin, no one has any idea that you are wearing it.
Big Cardigans And Coats
A couple of big cardigans that you can put on over anything will be a great asset when you are trying to keep warm. When you do not want to be always wrapped up in your coat, these are perfect. However, remember that thicker does not always mean warmer. When opting for which cardigan and coat to take with you, pick something that can have layers underneath for the maximum warmth.
Boots
Take one extra pair of boots, as you will also have the pair you are traveling in. They are best if they are not too casual, as then they will lift any outfit you are wearing. Perhaps, one pair of ankle boots and one pair that reach your knees is the ideal. It does not hurt to include one pair of ballet flats (for the ladies!) in your case so that you have something comfy for your feet when the boots come off.
Warm Accessories Are Crucial
Hats, gloves, and scarves can make all the difference in a cold climate. If your hands and head are warm, the rest of you will feel warmer too. You also have to remember that in a lot of destinations the sun sets early in the winter months. The sun might be shining when you sat out for the day, but take all your accessories with you, as it will get much colder later on.
Do not Overload Yourself
Do not overload yourself with things you probably will not need. For instance, you only need to take one handbag, and most accommodation will have things such as hairdryers so you do not need to pack yours. These things take up a lot of valuable space that could be used for more warm clothing.
Cold Weather Fabrics
It is no accident that thermals are light and thin, this is because they are made from fabrics that are perfect for the cold weather. You should remember this when you are packing, as two tops that are thin will be warmer warn together than one bigger and thicker top. The same applies to socks for inside your boots.
It is a case of being sensible when you are packing your suitcase and remembering that the whole aim is to keep warm while you are having fun.
