How To Pack Light For A 2-week Winter Trip

I’m used to traveling for long periods of time, which is why minimalism has been my go-to way of traveling for years. Without it, I never could have fit a year’s worth of clothes into a 40-liter backpack (no matter the season!) That’s why, even for a winter trip, I usually pack only what I need for two weeks, even if it’s a month-long trip.

Curious about what I pack? Here are the essentials you’ll need to brave the cold, along with some tips to take into account for your next winter trip.

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Winter Trip Tips

Don’t skip thermal clothing

I can’t believe I went on my first winter trips without even thinking about wearing thermal clothing. The 20-year old me was very confident or completely naive.

Anyway, it’s a no-brainer and an absolute essential if you want to explore a city comfortably for a few hours, especially in sub-zero temperatures.

Thermal tops, leggings, and even socks: do yourself a favor and buy a few for these bitter cold months. If you don’t know where to start, Uniqlo’s Heattech line is cozy and affordable. Merino base layers are also very effective against the cold and another one of my favorites.

Layer your clothes carefully

I’m not telling you to wear two bulky items or layer two coats on top of each other, but rather to layer your clothes smartly. Don’t worry, you won’t end up looking like a chubby penguin in the end.

Here are a few options:

• a wool coat + a sweater + a thermal base: a touch of elegance with warmth underneath, ideal for freezing days, and city sightseeing.
• a down parka + a sweater or hoodie: comfort and warmth all in one.
• a puffer jacket (a lightweight one is enough, depending on the temperature) + a sweater or hoodie + a thermal base.

In any case, I recommend at least bringing one wool coat or parka, as well as a lightweight puffer jacket, since it doesn’t take up much space and can easily be worn when it’s not as cold.

Insulate your feet

The only times my feet really stay warm are in the summer and spring. When autumn and winter come, it’s a whole different story, so I know what I’m talking about.

And there’s nothing worse than walking around and exploring a place while feeling like your feet just can’t seem to warm up.

First, opt for merino wool socks, because socks are, after all, your first line of defense against the cold. Never wear cotton socks, as they trap moisture, which is something you absolutely want to avoid in winter.

Next, choose the right kind of shoes: prioritize waterproof shoes in case of rain or snow, or insulated winter boots for everyday use.

And finally, never wear wet shoes!!

Bring your tights

Whether you want to look cute or simply stay warm, don’t forget your tights. A must item for a winter trip, you can even wear them under your jeans if your thermal leggings are in the wash, for a little extra warmth.

And if you want to wear skirts, dresses, or shorts in sub-zero temperatures, be sure to pack fleece-lined tights: the look of bare skin, but the warmth of pants.

Don’t leave your winter accessories behind

Beanie, gloves, scarf, earmuffs: remember to pack these small yet important accessories for you next winter trip.

Unless, of course, you want to freeze your head off and catch a cold (or worse) while on vacation.

Don’t overlook the sun

Even though winter isn’t always synonymous with blue skies, a cloudy day doesn’t mean the sun isn’t dangerous.

So be sure to apply your sunscreen every day, no matter the weather!

On the same note, pack your sunglasses: while you might not need them on rainy days, if it’s snowing and it’s a bright sunny day outside, you’ll be glad to have them to protect yourself from the sun’s glare off the snow. Not to mention that they can also protect you from cold winds and dry air.

Never neglect your lips or your hands

Chapped lips are a common nightmare in winter, and while I rarely have this problem when the temperatures are pleasant and mild, the same can’t be said during the coldest months.

It doesn’t matter if I drink 2 liters of water or more every day, the result is always the same: dry or chapped lips. So do yourself a favor and don’t forget to pack a lip balm.

It goes without saying, but my hands suffer pretty much the same fate, because even when I wear gloves, ruthless gusts of cold air always find their way through the tiny gaps, or maybe it’s because I take off my gloves to take photos too often.

That’s why, in addition to my lip balm, I always pack a hand cream or body lotion: a real lifesaver for your trip.

One dress is enough

Trust me, if you’re like me, chances are you don’t go out every day or wear many dresses in the winter, so one dress will be more than enough!

And if you want to combine warmth and style, go for a simple sweater dress: it’s easy to pair with cute winter boots.

Wear your bulky clothes at the airport

This is a tip I always give and always follow myself, even if you’re not going on a winter trip!

But it’s especially important when you’re going on vacation somewhere cold where you’ll need coats, sweaters, and various accessories that tend to be a bit heavy.

Hence this tip: wear your bulky clothes at the airport.

Opt for versatile and comfortable clothes

Don’t get me wrong, I love cute outfits, but “cute” doesn’t have to mean “uncomfortable”. My golden rule is to pick versatile clothes that I can easily pair with other pieces.

Another thing: when you’re packing your luggage, lay out your clothes, and think twice or even ten times about whether you really need that particular clothing. If you’re second-guessing your choice, it might just mean you won’t wear it once at your destination, so skip it!

Pack for a week and take only what you need

Don’t worry, you’ll always find washing machines at your accommodation or laundromats down the street, so don’t overpack, and take only the strict necessary, as if you were going away for a week.

The truth is, even if I’m traveling for months at a time, I tend to pack only two or three weeks’ worth of clothes, at most.

That’s more than enough, believe me, since the trick is to pack only what you need and what you’ll feel comfortable wearing.

Plus, you can always buy whatever you’ve forgotten or whatever catches your eye while you’re there.

Packing List for a 2-week Winter Trip

Ready to travel light? Here’s my packing list for a 2-week (or longer) winter trip.

Remember that the bulkiest items will be the ones you’re wearing on the day of departure at the airport!

Coats

• One coat
• One lightweight puffer jacket

Tops

• 2 thermal bases
• 2 sweaters or hoodies
• 4 versatile tops

Bottoms

• 1 pair of thermal leggings
• 2 pairs of tights
• 1 pair of jeans
• 1 pair of dark pants
• 2 skirts

Outings

• A sweater dress

Sleepwear

• 1 set of pajamas: thermal clothing can also be used as pajamas, so you technically have 2 sets

Swimming pool/sauna

• One swimsuit

Footwear

• One pair of insulated winter boots
• One pair of flip flops: for the shower or sauna

Undergarments

• 5 pairs of socks
• 5 pairs of underwear
• 2 bras

Accessories

• One beanie
• One scarf
• One pair of gloves

Gear

• Power bank
• Charger/adapter
• Headphones
• Padlock
• Reusable water bottle
• Door alarm/safety whistle

Toiletries

• Shampoo and conditioner: only if you really need them, as hotels usually provide them.
• Deodorant
• Hairbrush
• Toothbrush and Toothpase
• Cosmetics: follow the 100ml rule.
• Razor
• Makeup
• Wet wipes
• A quick-dry towel: for the swimming pool, sauna…

Packing Tools

• Compression packing cubes
• Laundry bag

There you go! I think you’re all set for your next winter trip! Get ready to defy the cold and create unforgettable memories, no matter which enchanting destination you choose!