Of course, snow is beautiful and serene. It can be nostalgic, or it can just make you giddy. But with snow comes cold, especially in Europe. European winters are chill; sometimes, you wish you didn't have to get out from under all those blankets. The problem is, usually, you have to.
Some of us even go on vacations, specifically during winter in Europe. If you fall into this category, this article is for you. Even if you are vacationing in any European country during the winter by mistake, continue reading.
Imagine this: you travel to a cold place in Europe, say Iceland, and pack all the wrong things. You take flimsy clothes and light shirts, which could easily ruin your vacation.
In this article, you will discover all the essentials you need to pack when going on a winter vacation in Europe. Also, if you can't predict the weather, this list still applies to you. So, keep reading!
Some of us even go on vacations, specifically during winter in Europe. If you fall into this category, this article is for you. Even if you are vacationing in any European country during the winter by mistake, continue reading.
Imagine this: you travel to a cold place in Europe, say Iceland, and pack all the wrong things. You take flimsy clothes and light shirts, which could easily ruin your vacation.
In this article, you will discover all the essentials you need to pack when going on a winter vacation in Europe. Also, if you can't predict the weather, this list still applies to you. So, keep reading!
1. All Your Papers
This one doesn't depend on the season. If you don't have your passport, you better start thinking up ways by which you can teleport to Switzerland in December. Depending on which country you come from, you may need a visa.
Carry money and credit cards when traveling. When on a trip, you never really know what emergencies may arise. You should also have your driving permit. We are here to help you prevent avoidable emergencies; this is step one!
2. The Bags
Surely, you don't plan on hanging your clothes and shoes over your shoulder. You will need a relatively big suitcase, depending on how long your trip is. Also, most clothing items required for winter are usually heavy or bulky.
This also requires you to use a bigger suitcase than you would typically use. Try to have one or two smaller carry-ons for handy items, too. Big chunky items like clothes and shoes will go in your big suitcase. Have your passport, cards, purses, and other items in a tote bag.
3. Layers
Now, on to the important part. You already know you're going to a cold place, so thin clothes and shorts are not on the packing list. Unless you are Elsa from Frozen, forget a swimsuit. Think carefully as you pick your clothes; how well do you think this will hold up at below-freezing temperatures?
The quality and quantity of your clothes matter. You will want to dress in layers when the cold starts getting to you. The base layer may be fleece-lined leggings, thermal tops for women, and thermal sets for men. If you like dresses, you can go for long thick ones. Trouser gang? Get some skinny jeans. Also, make sure you have at least one thick, warm coat. You can also pack thermal underwear and thick socks. You will be glad you did.
4. Footwear- No Frostbites
Yes, slippers are comfortable, but they are disastrous in the snow. We know you already knew that, but it can never be overemphasized. The kinds of footwear you'll pack will vary depending on the activities you have planned. If you plan to go skiing in Switzerland, you'll need some ski boots.
Barring specific activities, most of the footwear you pack for a winter vacation should be sturdy and withstand the cold. Get waterproof boots and comfortable shoes. We already mentioned socks, but we are saying it again. Pack some thick socks, stockings, and leggings. Take along some hats, earmuffs, and beanies as well.
5. Others
While this seems general, it contains many important things. Your body essentials like lotion, shower gels, bubble baths, and so on need to be packed. It is very easy for your skin to misbehave in a foreign place, and familiar body products can help your skin adjust faster. Apart from skin products, there are other essential things that should go in your travel bag.
Your camera is one of them. Did you really plan on traveling without taking any photos? Get that thought off your mind right now. Take your camera, hold a flask, and keep your mobile phone on. For your electronics, remember your chargers, extra batteries, and adaptors. Cold can come in the form of snow and rain, so take along an umbrella. Other accessories like scarves, gloves, and jewelry should not take a backseat on this trip. You are probably getting a Home Alone vibe, but while packing your jeans and coats, don't leave Kevin at Home!