The Evergreen Cold Weather Packing List
After growing up with east coast winters, visiting European Christmas markets during a snowstorm and experiencing Alaskan air, I believe this evergreen cold weather packing list will be your key to success for those colder climates.
Whether you’re looking for quality brands for the winter season at home or new gear for a winter wonderland vacation, you came to the right place. This cold weather packing list provides all the essentials you need for the winter in years to come. Winter gear is something you shouldn’t cheap out on because the value of warm and durable winter gear is priceless. Invest in quality over quantity, it’s worth it.
Your Cold Weather Packing List
Jackets
North Face
All you need is one really good winter jacket and you’ll be set for any cold weather trip you decide to take. I‘ve been wearing North Face since I was a kid! They’re the warmest and most durable jackets I’ve ever owned and always remain in great condition through the years. This outer layer is a must, so I recommend investing in one that fits your winter trip needs and all your style wants as well (color, length, fabric, etc).
Boots
Boots are one of the most fun elements for your cold weather packing list because of how many styles, shapes and colors there are to choose from. A good pair of boots for winter can make or break your comfort level when walking around and participating in outdoor activities during your next winter vacation
Bussola
“Hardcore but lightweight shoes made for someone special”
A new favorite of the winter season includes these high-quality and fashionable statement boots from Bussola.
The brand thrives on sustainability, practicality and intention which clearly shines through in their winter collection. Bussola focuses on traditional craft techniques, the use of technology to increase comfort and mobility and believes in carrying a social responsibility for taking care of the earth. I’ve been loving the short ankle boots this season and made sure to get 2 neutral colors to match all my winter looks.
Gaia Heel Mountain Ankle Boot
The Gaia Heel Mountain Ankle Boot features laced construction, a light weight outsole and a warm faux wool. It's a perfect everyday style whether you like wearing dresses or jeans.
Kalahari Chelsea Boot
A signature pair of Bussola boots made of authentic microfiber with water resistant function. The boots offer a light max outsole for comfort wear and is certified vegan footwear which is environment friendly.
Sperry
A classic pair of Sperry winter/rain boots are great if you’re not doing any extreme winter activities like skiing, sledding or hiking. These are great for trekking through the snow on a wintery day in the park, sitting by a fire pit with s’mores or perhaps making your way to the bar for some spiked hot chocolate. In fact, I’ve had my Sperry’s for years and use them for these exact occasions!
L.L. Bean
L.L Bean boots are my go-to for all high-intensity outdoor activities including anything snow or hike related. They are extremely supportive, durable and also fashionable, which is always a plus!
Socks
Winter socks are crucial for keeping your feet warm whether you’re at home or out and about in your winter boots, making them an essential base layer. In fact, all boots should be paired with quality socks. For those who suffer from poor circulation in their feet, thick socks will be the most important investment on your cold weather packing list. Think marino wool, although regular wool socks will do the trick as well. When it comes to choosing travel clothes, socks and boots are one of the easiest things to mix and match to make a variety of outfits.
Bombas
Sweaters
The key to staying warm in the winter is what your mother always told you to do; layer up! Good quality, thick and comfortable sweaters will complete your upper body warmth level by investing in ones that last. When you are shopping for new sweaters this season, try to invest in a variety of colors and thicknesses so that you have a sweater for every occasion. Remember, you can always layer over, and even under, your sweater depending on the temperature.
Banana Republic
Scarves
Scarves do wonders for warming up the body because of the power of wrapping them around your neck. In fact, the neck provides a large source of heat to the rest of the body. So when your neck is covered, you’re likely to be 2x warmer than if you didn’t wear one. Packing light is hard during the cold season, but luckily, scarves tend to pack light for winter travel. So instead of grabbing another heavy layer that might weigh you down along your travels, grab a warm scarf.
Amazon
Hats and Gloves
Covering the sensitive parts of the body like the ears and finger tips are crucial for preventing frost bite and also staying warm overall when you’re outside in a winter setting. Gloves make a huge different when it comes to preforming outdoor activities. And don’t worry, there are plenty of gloves to choose from today that are made with materials that allow you to utilize your phone without removing them. Hats prevent the loss of body heat, keeping you warmer all over. Plus, beanies and toboggans are classic winter accessories that can really elevate an outfit and take it to the next level!
Ubran Outfitters
Amazon
Travel Coffee Mug
A portable coffee mug is a timeless piece to have with you on your travels. Being able to bring along a warm beverage like coffee, tea, hot cocoa, or even spiced apple cider, can make your travels more enjoyable and keep you warm. Find a mug you love and you’ll never be able to travel without it.
Amazon
Today, we touched on all the must-haves for cold weather travel. Some other items that might come in handy as you’re packing for cold weather are: sun glasses and/or eye protection from the bright, white snow; a light backpack to carry your essentials; long underwear in case of extreme cold temperatures; and compression packing tubes to make packing those thick winter clothes so much easier.
For more travel tips, including packings lists, domestic and international destination guides, click here.
What’s on your cold weather packing list?
Happy travels xx