I am here to help you with what to pack for a winter travel in Europe. After my friend from ever warm and sunny Malaysia came over for a visit, I realized having a packing checklist for winter is necessary.
Winter in Europe can be harsh and unpredictable. I can remember winters with meters of snow that we were snowed in and unable to get to work. I also remember recent warm winters when we had unseasonably spring like temperatures which can’t be good for hibernating animals and flowering plants and trees. (yes, even have on hand allergy medications)
If you plan to travel in winter in Europe then you have to be prepared for any temperature: so be like a good girl guide and “Always Be Prepared”
The list below is mainly aimed at folks who travel from a warmer regions to winter conditions. I added links to show you what I mean if you are not familiar with these items.
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Table of Contents
Which luggage should I bring on my winter travels ?
Which luggage to bring depends upon what sort of trip you are planning. If there are internal flights between your trip then you will have to check the luggage allowances for those flights.
If you are on a guided tour from start to finish then a sturdier luggage with hard shell is probably a good choice.
If you have a base place where you will be at the start and end of the trip, then I highly recommend bringing a carry-on in your big luggage that you can use for travelling around Europe.
*Tip: Travelling light in Europe is best : as there are old cobbled-stone roads to navigate and no elevators in many accommodations.
- Waterproof/Water-resistant Material: Essential to protect your belongings from rain and snow. If your current luggage is not waterproof , consider buying rain-covers for luggages or backpacks
- Durable Wheels: Smooth-rolling wheels will be crucial, especially if you’ll be navigating snowy or icy sidewalks.
- Comfortable Straps/Handles: If you choose a duffel bag or backpack, ensure comfortable straps for carrying.
- Sturdy Zippers: Look for high-quality zippers that won’t break in cold weather.
- Compression Packing Cubes: They have a dual function of helping to save precious luggage space as well as for organizing.
*Pro Tip: I recommend Briggs and Riley luggage for their lifetime guarantee. It is expensive but the number of luggages I have already thrown away justifies having a high quality B&R luggage
What are my clothing considerations to pack ?
To deal with unpredictability of temperatures and conditions during winter: it is best to bring layers of clothings to give flexibility. The power of the sun should not be underestimated as it can be comfortably warm during the day and suddenly drops in temperature once the sun is away.
*Note: The list below is mainly for central and south Europe. If you are going to North Europe like Iceland and Scandinavia in winter, you need really warm jackets.
Sleepwear for winter travel
- Warm inner thermal underwear (optional : as usually accommodations have heating in winter)
- Warm socks
- Long sleeved Pajama Pants & Shirt (you can ditch the thermal underwear if it gets too warm)
Base layer wear for winter travel
What you wear on the inside is important as you go sightseeing, very likely for the whole day you will be outside visiting all the best sights you can take in.
- Thermal underwear – I recommend wearing merino wool as it is lightweight, does not need to be washed often, odor-resistant and moisture-wicking. The other plus is it is easily hand-washed and dries within 2 – 3 hours.
- Breathable socks – I like Alpaca wool socks – they are pretty hardy especially if you have hikes in your itinerary. Very good in keeping your feet dry and warm.
Mid-layer wear for winter travel
This layer is essentially what you can wear when indoors – in restaurants or cafe during your sightseeing.
- Long-sleeve shirts – if it is not that cold, and you decide to skip the thermal underwear, having a long sleeve shirt with UV-protection could prove to be a smart idea under the winter sun.
- Water-resistant pants – are really smart and prepares the traveller for any weather including rain and snow. If you are able to get ones with multiple pockets will be best.
- Vest – The vest is sleeveless and therefore the arms and underarms have some breathing room which I find to be more comfortable especially when in a warmer place. The vest is also easily removed or put on where necessary. I would select a less bulky vest for easier storage.
Outer layer for winter travel
- Waterproof winter jacket – This will most likely by your most bulky item to pack but it does not have to be the heaviest. Choose a lightweight jacket which can keep you warm at the same time. With layering help from the sections above – it is possible to use a lighter jacket. Waterproof zips are good to have to keep the wearer warm and dry. Get winter jackets with removable hoods – I actually prefer jackets without hoods, as water gets pooled in them and they sometimes get in the way of backpacks. Get hooded vests or shirts with hoods instead. You only need winter jackets with hoods when you expect to be in a snowing intensive place.
- Neck tubes (Scarf) – Instead of a scarf , neck tubes function well to keep the neck warm and can also extend to protect the face without being as bulky.
- Winter Gloves – I recommend the touch screen gloves that you won’t have to keep removing.
- Winter Hat – we lose a lot of heat through the head and having a winter hat is essential for comfortable travel in winter
*Pro Tip: Pack light,neutral coloured clothing allows you to mix and match. Don’t forget you can always do laundry in Europe at laundromats or at your accommodations.
Footwear for winter travel
- Waterproof walking shoes – Boots with profiled soles are important to have – as roads could be slippery and icy in winter. Waterproof shoes is what you should look for as walking with wet feet should be avoided at all costs. Lastly, get shoes which are lightweight – they are way more comfortable for long walks.
Other essentials for winter travel
- Moisturizer – Keep your skin hydrated as the air is dry in winter , and cold winds make it even dryer.
- Lip Balm – Don’t forget your lips! Pack a moisturizing lip balm with SPF to protect against chapping and windburn.
- Sunscreen – is not just for summer. Use one with broad spectrum, water resistant and above SPF30
- Sunglasses – to protect your eyes . It is especially bright in snow areas where the white reflects the light.
- Heat plasters for the body – for when it gets too cold to handle.
- Medications – It pays to be prepared with usual medications like pain killers, aspirin, allergy medicines and anything else you might need.
Electronics & Others
- Portable Charger – Cold weather can drains your electronics fast, so a portable charger is a must.
- Universal Travel Adapter – Ensure your electronics are compatible with European outlets.
- Umbrella – A small foldable sturdy umbrella could come in useful. Choose one with a case that lets you store the wet umbrella into your bag without getting your other things wet.
- Thermal Mug – Small , travel sized for bringing along hot drinks on the go. I recommend a light one as in the link.
Bonus Tip: General travel to Europe
Travel Insurance – Don’t leave home without it. Be glad if you don’t need it but be thankful when you do. Having insurance is not solely about yourself but about making things easier for your travel mates in case anything does happen. I use Heymondo – as I read many good reviews from fellow travellers.
International Sim Card – Staying connected is a must these days. I use Airalo and recommend using eSims for its ease of use. Switching is easy and there is no additional piece of Sim card to take care of. Check out my blog post on using Airalo with a link to check if your phone supports eSim
With the right preparation, you’ll be ready to embrace the magic of a European winter. From snowy landscapes to cozy Christmas markets, your winter adventure awaits!
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