Jetting off somewhere exciting? Packing for a hot, sunny vacation is relatively straightforward - shorts, t-shirts, summer dresses, swimwear, etc. On the other hand, filling a suitcase to suit a cold climate is an entirely different matter. Cold weather-appropriate clothes are typically bulky, meaning you’ll have to pack carefully and strategically to stay warm during your trip.
Whether you’re off to see the Northern Lights in Lapland or for a skiing trip in Switzerland, here is everything you’ll need to protect yourself from plummeting temperatures.
Thermals
Thermals are necessary for cold climates as they safeguard against different kinds of heat loss. Lightweight, quick-drying and exceptionally moisture-wicking, thermals can be worn as a base layer for any outfit to keep you warm and dry throughout the day. Merino wool thermals are naturally breathable and odour-resistant, so you won’t have to worry about overheating during physical activities like skiing or snowboarding. Furthermore, merino wool can absorb up to 30% of its weight in moisture before feeling wet to the touch.
Winter Coat
A good winter coat will be your saving grace when conditions are harsh. High-quality winter coats may be pricey, but they are undoubtedly worth every penny for their excellent insulation properties and durability. Opt for a water-resistant padded puffer coat with wool or fleece lining and high-performance thermal filling made from goose down, duck down. For a vegan alternative, you can purchase equally insulating feather-free winter coats filled with polyester or even recycled plastic bottles.
Hats, Scarves and Gloves
If you’re heading somewhere snowy, you’ll need all the insulation you can get in the form of warm accessories. While it’s a myth that you lose the majority of your body heat through your head, you’ll still need to keep it covered, so opt for a wool or wool-blend beanie or fleece-lined trapper hat. Waterproof ski gloves will keep your fingers toasty, but you may also wish to pack a more stylish option for evening activities. Lastly, pack an oversized cashmere scarf that can double up as a travel wrap for your plane journey.
Waterproofs
In freezing-cold temperatures, it can be a miserable experience once you’re damp. Suppose you’re planning on a trip involving outdoor activities like skiing, hiking or husky sledding. In that case, you’ll likely need a waterproof outer layer, such as a snowsuit, a cagoule or overalls. Waterproof layers will prevent water from passing through to your base layers of clothing beneath, keeping you comfortable and warmer for longer.
Sweaters
A small selection of good quality sweaters will be essential for cold weather layering. Cashmere is made from the downy undercoats of cashmere goats, the natural habitat of which is the lofty plateaus of the cold Gobi desert, where temperatures can drop below −40 °C. No surprise, then, that cashmere is one of the most sought-after fibres in the world due to its supreme insulating properties. You can keep exceptionally warm with a feather-soft cashmere oversized sweater layered between your thermals and your winter coat.
Appropriate Shoes
Appropriate footwear is vital for icy environments. Specialised snow boots will help you maintain a firm grip on the ground whilst keeping your feet warm and dry. For less snowy environments such as busy towns and cities, a good pair of fleece or faux-fur-lined, water-resistant leather boots will suffice. Low-quality boots and trainers may not withstand chilly temperatures, although if your options are limited, you can line your footwear with thick merino wool socks.
Eveningwear
After spending your day partaking in all manner of exciting winter activities, you’ll want to unwind with a cosy candle-lit dinner accompanied by a roaring fire. While you’re welcome to wear your snowsuit, you may wish to pack something a little more appropriate for fine dining. There are plenty of elegant, winter-appropriate options available, such as form-fitting sweater dresses and velvet jumpsuits. If you’re still concerned about being cold, you could always add an extra layer by using your cashmere scarf as a shawl.
Tights
High-quality, opaque, fleece-lined tights are highly reliable and excellent for keeping your legs warm from dawn until dusk. When made from merino wool or even organic cotton, a good pair of tights can provide more insulation than a pair of jeans, so make sure you pack one pair for every day of your trip along with your other thermals. You could also wear your tights with your eveningwear for an outfit insulating as it is elegant.
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