A little snow and ice is no excuse to stay home and wonder about the travels that might have been if only you could get someplace warm. Winter is actually a great time to see a lot of places because it is the off tourist season and the crowds are gone and the rates are down. Europe in particular is known for having lower airfare and hard-to-believe hotel deals from just after New Years until around the end of March. I know, I know, you’re imagining yourself dredging through snow drifts and slush, hands too shaky to even snap a photo, just wanting nothing more but to stay tucked inside your hotel with your cocoa. It doesn’t have to be that way! When you have the right gear, travel is always possible and positive. Here are five absolute must haves to get your winter travel packing checklist started.
1. Boots
Warm and waterproof is your mantra. Understand? Quality winter boots that will keep you warm, dry, steady and still looking nice will not be cheap, but they’re an investment and if you spend the money now they will last you for many a wintery walk to come. DSW has some good options.
2. Hat
Or ear muffs or a headband if you’re going to be all worrying about your hair and whatnot, so long as you keep those little ears and most of your head warm. This really depends on exactly what your winter travels include, but whether you’ll be frolicking about town or speeding down the alps, REI pretty much has you covered.
3. Convertible Mittens
The benefit of convertible mittens versus classic gloves or mittens is that you don’t need to take your whole hand out when you need to do something that requires naked fingers like use your phone or maybe even get out your metro card. When it’s Elsa-status cold, you put mittens on first, before the jackets, so that way you don’t have to worry about that dreadful wrist gap letting the freezing air in. Now, the best part about Etsy is you can customize your order.
4. Thermal Underwear
Sorry not sorry. Thank me when your whole self is warm and toasty all day long. Hanes knows what I’m talking about.
5. Snow Pack
A snow pack is the best way to go to lug around all of your gear during winter travels. Suitcases inevitably get wet and dirty from being dragged through slush while duffle bags don’t help when you’re already trying to maintain balance on a slippery route. Marmot snow packs all have ample room for a good weeks journey if you’re using it as your primary luggage, plus it can also hit the slops with you and carry everything you need for a day of snowy fun, including skis and snowboards.
