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Winter packing list – how to pack for cold weather trips!

October 5, 2022
Packing Lists

Holidays to winter weather destinations require quite a different set of clothing and goods than a summer holiday. One of the main things to consider is the size of the clothes you will be taking (they tend to be bulkier!) so therefore the amount of suitcases and bags being taken might be more. But with a bit of clever packing you can make the most of the space you have. Read on for our Winter Packing list – how to pack for cold weather trips!

Essentials for Cold weather holidays

  • Layers – take jumpers, t-shirts and vests. Layers trap the heat so keep you much warmer than just one thick layer.
  • Thermals – if it is going to be very cold. These can include leggings to wear under proper trouser and long sleeved tight tops to wear under jumpers. You can get some good ones at Mountain Warehouse, however I have got excellent ones in the past from Lidl.
  • Comfortable warm trousers – we tend to pack jeans for us and thick leggings or jeans for the children. If it is going to be very cold and you want to wear thermals underneath, make sure they fit under the trousers you take with you.
  • Good waterproof walking shoes. For children, wellington boots are a good idea – however be sure you pack good socks for them as wellingtons don’t have good insulation.
  • Thick, thermal socks.
  • A good hat – make sure this fits well and keeps your head warm. This is one item I suggest trying on before you buy, head sizes vary greatly, as does what you find comfortable.
  • Thermal gloves, find ones that you are happy with (you can get ones that you can keep on when using your phone for example).
  • Warm lightweight scarf
  • A decent umbrella – you can get umbrellas that pack very small which are ideal for travelling.

Do I have to spend a fortune?

No, many of the above can be found for a decent price in value shops such as Primark or the middle aisle in Lidl/Aldi. A lot of items may also be available second hand on Vinted or Ebay.

The only thing that is usually worth spending a little more on is a decent coat as this can be used year after year (again, however, these can be sourced second hand!).

How to I avoid filling my suitcase with all the bulky items?

I would suggest you wear your bulkiest jumpers and coats on the plane. Same applies for shoes, I often take a pair of boots as well as a lighter pair of shoes for indoor activities (going shopping, cinema etc). I will always wear my big shoes on the plane.

I also always take a (fairly lightweight) blanket for the children (even on summer holidays) and take this on the plane too. Any soft toys they want to take with them also come on the plane too.

Any shoes you take in your suitcase, shove socks in them to utilise space. Also, packing cubes are revolutionary for space saving (a top tip is to roll clothes rather than fold!)

What toiletries do I need to take?

  • Lip balm
  • Tissues
  • Shampoo/shower gel
  • first aid kit
  • biodegradable wipes
  • Make up
  • Deodorant

What backpack do I need to take?

We use our Travel Hack backpack (gifted) for our day bag when we travel. Its excellent, has lots of pockets and is waterproof. I take it as my carry on for the plane as well.

Summary

Thanks for coming to read ‘Winter packing list – how to pack for cold weather trips!’ I hope you find it helpful. If you are heading to Disneyland Paris anytime soon, head here to read our packing guide.

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