Women’s Travel Essentials for Winter Holidays
From magical snow-covered cities, crisp mountain air, to action-packed adventures, winter holidays come with smaller crowds and better prices. But pack wrong, and you’ll feel it. Lucky for you, we’ve put together this handy little guide just for that.
Footwear That Works
First off, you’ll need decent footwear, as skimping on this will cause pain and make you cold, wet, and miserable. It’s essential to get footwear that is durable, comfortable, warm, and dry.
For winter city breaks, insulated waterproof boots with good grip are ideal (especially on icy pavements). Brands like Sorel, such as its Joan of Arctic range, and Blundstone Thermal boots are popular for good reason.
If you’re heading somewhere more active such as a ski resort or snowy hike, look at proper winter or hiking boots from brands such as Merrell or Salomon, which offer insulation, ankle support and reliable traction.
Thermals That Actually Keep You Warm
Thermals shouldn’t be an afterthought, they should be the first thing you think of when getting dressed for cold weather. As having a warm base layer makes a world of difference.
A good thermal layer traps heat while helping to regulate body temperature, meaning you stay warm without piling on bulky clothing. Heat Holders’ range, for instance, is well-known for its thermal socks, leggings and tops, that are designed specifically to combat the cold.
Outerwear That Does It All
While decent outerwear should be practical, there’s no reason why you can’t also look stylish.
Insulated parkas and down jackets by brands such as The North Face, Patagonia, and Rab work well, offering coats that are warm, windproof and waterproof without feeling restrictive.
For trips where temperatures fluctuate or when luggage space might be a concern, a 3-in-1 jacket can be a smart option.
A Decent Backpack
While the type of winter holiday you’re going for will affect your backpack choice, there are some pretty basic principles when it comes to choosing the right one.
Look for a backpack that’s water-resistant, comfortable to carry, and big enough for essentials. For city breaks, something compact like a Fjällräven Kånken works well. For more active days, technical packs such as the Osprey Talon or Tempest offer better weight distribution and support.
Quick Winter Travel Tips
- Always carry spare socks in your day bag
- Pack in layers rather than relying on one heavy outfit
- Cold air is drying, so always pack lip balm and moisturiser
- Break in boots before you travel, not on day one
Remember…
The right boots, layers, and kit make the difference between enjoying the cold and simply enduring it. So pack smart, invest in the essentials, and your winter holiday will be an unforgettable experience, rather than a holiday from hell.
Image credit – Dreamstime
