Packing light for winter destinations is always difficult – you have extra layers, bulky items, and more accessories compared to packing for warmer climates. The name of the game is to stay warm and dry! To help you prepare, a free printable winter packing list is available in the Resource Library.
Base layers are an absolute must – base layers are closest to your skin, and they are important to keep dry. Two key attributes for base layers are if they are moisture wicking and odor resistant. I recommend wearing the thinnest base layer you can based on the temperature in your destination. A thermal legging below your pants will keep you warm without adding a ton of bulk.
Keep the fabric material and fit in mind. Merino wool will keep you warm, but it also wicks moisture and is antibacterial. This is perfect for layering because you can wear it multiple days. Silk is also a good base layer if you do not like wool. The more fitted your clothing, the easier it will be to retain body heat and wick sweat.
If you are trying to pack light, wear your heaviest and bulkiest items (e.g., boots, coat, scarf) on the plane to save space in your luggage.
Tops
- Warm and waterproof jacket – In Iceland, I wore a fleece jacket with a waterproof outer shell that could be zipped on. Another option is a packable or travel down jacket as they tend to roll up tightly to save space.
- Thermal base layers
- Long-sleeve shirts
- Loose or oversized sweaters are great for layering over base layers.
- Fleece vests or jackets to wear under coats or by themselves on warmer days.
Bottoms
- Thermal or fleece-lined leggings
- Jeans
- Snow pants or waterproof pants to layer on jeans or leggings.
- Sweatpants to lounge around your accommodation comfortably.
Accessories
- Buff/neck gaiter
- Scarf
- Knit hat or beanie – Make sure the hat covers your ears – which is especially important if you are spending a lot of time outdoors.
- Gloves or mitts – Depending on your planned activities, you may need thicker or more specialized gloves. I recommend waterproof, touchscreen gloves if possible. I did not have these in Iceland and had to rely on fingerless gloves when photographing the Northern Lights!
- Sunglasses – Winter months still have sunny days. There can also be a strong glare off snow or ice.
- Merino wool socks
- Waterproof winter boots
- Walking shoesg., flats, tennis shoes/trainers
- Swimsuit(s) for hot springs or spas
Luggage
- Hard shell suitcase – When you think of winter escapes, you usually picture snow and ice. A hard case is perfect if you are headed for one of these destinations because it will protect your items in transit. If you have soft cover luggage, waterproof spray or a waterproof cover is useful.
- Day bag or purse
Miscellaneous
- Traction devices
- Yaktrax are metal coils that slip on over your shoes. They are best for walking over snow and dirt on sidewalks or flat trails.
- MICROspikes are small spikes that slip on over your shoes. The spikes are best for relatively flat ice grades and hard snow.
- Crampons are heavier, longer spikes that attach to your shoes. Often, they have front points for steep slopes or ice climbs. These are best for hiking or exploring waterfalls and glaciers. Crampons may require training to use properly.
- Lip balm and moisturizer – Winter air is dry and there are rough winds. My skin cracks easily so I make sure to always have Chapstick and moisturizer when I travel.
- Sunscreen
- Portable charger – Cold environments lower battery capacity and drain batteries faster. I carry at least one portable charger/power bank. I also bring spare batteries for my camera.
- Ziploc/plastic bags – When you bring plastic bags, you can separate wet clothes from dry ones in your luggage. This is especially helpful with wet swimsuits or snow-soaked pants.
- Silica gel packets – Silica gels absorb moisture. You can place a couple of them in a plastic bag with wet clothes or electronics to dry them faster.
- Quick dry towel
- Tripod – A tripod is essential for spectacular, crisp Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights) photos. If you are not planning on shooting astrophotography or other specialized photos, then a tripod is not necessary.
The key to having the best trip in cold climates is being prepared. This winter packing list will help you on your next escape! What is your top winter essential? Let us know in the comments below!
Wow! Thank you. I definitely would have left the house without a few of these important essentials!
Thank Joni! There have definitely been trips where I was missing items 🙂 I make these lists so you don’t have to be uncomfortable or miss out on something on your amazing adventure!
All great tips! I can print & save for when I go up north!
Thanks Cheri! Yes, winter means something very different for those of us living in the south 😉 Glad you find the printable useful!