A person dressed warmly in a green winter jacket, black pants, boots, and a white knit hat sits by a snowy lakeside, looking out over a calm, turquoise lake. Snow covers the foreground, and misty mountains rise in the background. The serene winter scene illustrates the importance of dressing warmly for cold-weather adventures, making it perfect for a "Winter packing list" reminder to pack insulated jackets, boots, and hats.

The Ultimate Winter Packing List + Free Printable Checklist

Planning a cozy getaway or an exciting chilly adventure and need a winter packing list?

Whether you’re heading to a snowy mountain retreat, a European Christmas Village, or any other frosty locale, packing for a winter trip can be quite a challenge.

But don’t worry, my frosty friend! Because I’ve got you covered with The Ultimate Winter Packing List Guide!

With years of experience packing for cold weather trips like Iceland, Canada, and countless ski trips across the country, I’m here to share my winter packing list, and tips for conquering super cold climates.

And as a bonus, I’ve included a free printable winter packing checklist to simplify your packing process.

So let’s get packing, I suppose!

Kate from Kate's Crossing Blog bundled up for winter sits in a horse-drawn sleigh, smiling in a white knit hat, maroon puffer jacket with a fur-trimmed hood, black gloves, and a white scarf. She is draped with a red and white houndstooth blanket. The horse beside her is harnessed and ready for the ride. This cozy winter scene emphasizes the need for warm layers, scarves, and gloves, which are essential items for any "Winter packing list" when traveling to cold, snowy destinations.

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    Why You Need This Winter Packing List

    Here’s the deal – winter travel comes with its unique set of challenges. As if packing wasn’t already stressful enough, now you have the added stress of worrying if you packed the right stuff to stay warm.

    And, are you sure you covered all your winter outdoor activities?

    Or maybe you have to navigate outfits for changing climates if you are leaving warm climates and heading to cold climates.

    And how in the heck are you going to get it to all fit in your suitcase? Especially if your goal is to pack carry on luggage only!

    I don’t know about you, but I hate feeling cold! The thought of being underprepared can really stress a person out! It might lead us to overpack for those “just in case” scenarios. If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone.

    That’s where my trusty checklist comes in. This list keeps you on track, ensures you don’t forget essential items, and saves you from last-minute packing stress.

    Packing list

    The Ultimate Winter Packing List

    Winter Clothing Essentials:

    For your winter clothing, Pack items that can be LAYERED!

    Begin with high-quality thermal base layers to retain body heat so you stay toasty warm. Opt for merino wool base layers, that provides better moisture-wicking benefits to keep dry and warm.

    Then, add an insulating layer like a fleece jacket to trap heat and cap it all off with a waterproof and windproof outer layer for maximum warmth.

    For the foundation of your winter clothes, investing in proper footwear is paramount. Waterproof boots with proper insulation are your best bet for keeping your feet dry and warm. Make sure your winter boots are comfy for walking by breaking them in before your trip!

    Don’t overlook the finer details that make a significant difference in cold weather travel. Accessorize yourself with a cozy wool or fleece hat, gloves, and a scarf to seal in the warmth. And because winter can be unpredictable, consider packing an extra pair of gloves—just in case one gets wet.

    For the tech-savvy, touchscreen-friendly gloves are convenient, so your hands don’t get cold while you take pictures.

    Oh, and speaking of warmth, never underestimate the importance of a few pairs of warm wool socks. Your feet will thank you for the extra insulation as you explore through your winter wonderland.

    A neatly folded stack of winter clothing sits on a wooden surface, including a light blue knit hat, an orange sweater, a striped scarf, plaid flannel, and a pair of beige knit mittens.

    List of Clothes to Pack for Winter Travel:

    Toiletries and Personal Care:

    In your toiletries bag, PRIORITIZE MOISTURIZING!!

    Cold weather and biting winds can be harsh on your skin, so make sure your toiletries packing list is stocked with the moisturizing essentials.

    Combat the cold wind’s assault on your lips by including a moisturizing lip balm with SPF protection. Regularly apply this lifesaver and stash a spare in your coat pocket and bag for on-the-go coverage.

    Extend your hydration defense beyond your lips. A top-notch hand and skin moisturizer is a must to ward off the dryness that cold weather can bring.

    Pro tip: apply moisturizer right after showering to lock in the hydration.

    Don’t forget SUNSCREEN!!

    Despite the colder temperatures, remember that the snow reflects the sun’s UV rays, greatly increasing the risk of sunburn. Save your skin by using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 30 on exposed areas, and don’t forget to reapply throughout the day!

    A person walks through a snow-covered forest, with sunlight streaming through the trees, creating a serene winter scene. The snow glistens on the trees and ground, while the clear blue sky adds to the crisp, cold atmosphere.

    List of Toiletries to Pack for Winter Travel:

    • Lip Balm with SPF
    • Moisturizing Lotion
    • Sunscreen with high SPF
    • Hydrating Face Serum (or other skincare)
    • Hand and Foot Cream
    • Shampoo and Conditioner (if not provided by accommodation)
    • Leave in Conditioner
    • Dry Shampoo
    • Body Wash or Soap
    • Toothbrush, Toothpaste, and Dental Floss
    • Deodorant
    • Razor and Shaving Cream
    • Hairbrush or Comb
    • Hair Ties or Accessories
    • Personal Hygiene Items (Tampons, Period Cup, Pads, etc.)
    • Nail clippers and Files
    • Contact Lenses or Eyeglasses (if applicable)
    • Contact Solution
    Kate from Kate's Crossing Blog poses with arms raised in excitement on a snowy mountain slope, surrounded by snow-covered trees. Dressed in a maroon jacket, bright orange vest, patterned ski pants, and ski goggles, the skier is well-prepared for the cold weather.

    Winter Sports Gear and Accessories:

    For your winter sports gear and outdoor activities, snow goggles with anti-fog and UV protection shield your eyes from the glare off the snow and the wind.

    It’s wise to pack an extra pair of goggles in case one becomes scratched or fogged during your adventures. Or bring a second interchangeable lens for your goggles.

    Pocket-sized hand and toe warmers offer immediate warmth; tuck them inside your gloves and boots. Remember to shake hand warmers before use to activate the heat.

    Or, if you opt for a rechargeable hand warmer, make sure you charge it up between your cold weather activities.

    If you’re planning to hit the slopes on a ski trip, consider renting your skis. But, if renting is not an option and you want to bring your own skis, read my article on how to travel with skis.

    Pro Tip: Ensure your gear is in top shape by getting it serviced before your trip, and carry a small repair kit just in case.

    Kate and her husband pose in front of the large "Banff" sign, surrounded by snow-covered ground and tall evergreen trees. Both are dressed warmly in winter jackets, boots, and hats, preparing for the cold weather of the Canadian Rockies.

    List of Winter Sports Gear and Accessories to Pack:

    • Snowshoes
    • Skis, Poles, and Ski Boots
    • Snowboard, Boots, and Bindings
    • Ski/Snowboard Jacket
    • Snow Pants or Insulated Ski/Snowboard Pants
    • Snow Goggles with UV protection (plus extra lens)
    • Snow Chains (if you are road-tripping to your locale)
    • Winter Tires for your vehicle
    • Snow Sled or Toboggan (if you plan on sledding)
    • Ice Cleats or Crampons for icy conditions
    • Leg Gaiters (to keep snow out of your boots)
    • Snowmobile Gear (if applicable)
    • Avalanche Safety Equipment (Transceiver, Probe, and Shovel) for backcountry adventures
    A flat lay image shows cozy winter essentials, including a cream-colored sweater with a geometric pattern, matching knit mittens adorned with red hearts, a multicolored pom-pom hat, sunglasses, and a passport tucked beside the sweater.

    Travel Documents and Essentials:

    For seamless winter trips, the first thing to check is ensuring your travel documents are in order.

    Begin by double-checking the expiration dates on your passport and ID, making sure they’re up-to-date and easy to find.

    Keep in mind that most countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months beyond your travel dates. So plan accordingly to avoid any unexpected difficulties during your winter vacation.

    For extra security, make copies or take digital pictures of your travel documents and store on your phone. This precaution can be a lifesaver in case you lose your primary documents.

    Now, let’s talk about travel insurance.

    Winter can throw curveballs, especially if you are doing one of winter’s extreme sports. So it’s smart to have travel insurance that covers medical stuff and also trip changes or cancelations. Take the time to read through all the insurance details so you know what’s what.

    Lastly, keep a digital and paper copy of your plans. It should have all the addresses, phone numbers, and reservations.

    Share this with a friend or family member you trust. It’s like having an extra layer of safety in case something goes wrong.

    A close-up image shows two U.S. passports tucked into the outer pocket of a black suitcase, with travel documents peeking out from behind them.

    List of Travel Documents You Will Want to Pack for Winter Travel:

    • Passport and a Photocopy
    • Visa (if required)
    • Global Entry or Nexus Card
    • ID Card or Driver’s License
    • Travel Insurance Documents
    • Health Insurance Card
    • Plane, Train, or Bus Tickets
    • Accommodation Reservations
    • Rental Car Documents (if applicable)
    • Emergency Contact List
    • Wallet (with Cash, Credit/Debit Cards)
    A person wrapped in a thick, cozy sweater holds a camera up to their face, capturing a snowy scene by the water. The snowfall gently frames the serene background of trees and water. This image emphasizes the importance of packing warm, layered clothing and capturing winter memories.

    Electronics and Entertainment:

    It’s time to talk gadgets and the fun stuff.

    Don’t forget to pack chargers for all your gadgets, and bring a portable power bank just in case you run out of juice. And I also love a nano travel charger for cordless charging on the go!

    Keep your cables neat and tidy using a travel organizer – no more tangled mess!

    Winter nights are perfect for diving into a good read. So, bring along an e-reader or a good old-fashioned book. E-books save space if you’re short on room.

    For long flights or train rides, noise-canceling ear buds are like magic. Plus, make sure to download your favorite tunes and movies ahead of time – it’ll make your trip go by faster!

    A person holds up a smartphone to capture a snowy mountain view during sunrise or sunset, with the screen displaying the scene as they take a photo. They are wearing a red winter jacket, emphasizing the cold-weather conditions.

    List of Gadgets and Entertainment to Pack:

    • Smartphone and Charger
    • Laptop or Tablet and Charger
    • Travel Camera and Charger/Batteries
    • GoPro and Charger/Batteries
    • Video Equipment and Charger/Batteries (if applicable)
    • Power Bank
    • Hard Drive
    • International Power Adapters/Converter
    • Noise Canceling Earbuds or Headphones
    • E-reader or Physical Books
    • Music
    • Audiobooks
    • Podcasts
    • Movies/Videos (downloaded)
    • Travel-size Speaker (if desired)
    • Cables and Memory Cards for Electronics
    • Electronic organizer
    A serene winter landscape showcases a snowy shoreline bathed in the golden light of a sunrise or sunset, with footprints trailing across the fresh snow. Bare trees stand along the edge, and the sky is painted with soft pink and blue hues.

    Medications and First Aid:

    Don’t forget to secure an adequate supply of prescription medications for your trip. I recommend you have extra on hand in case of unexpected delays.

    Keep your medications in their original containers with clear labels for easy identification.

    Tip: Pack your prescriptions you can’t live without in your personal item. I had a friend get forced to gate-check her carry-on, and they lost her bag. She was incredibly sick for almost the duration of the trip because it took a week to get her suitcase with her meds in it.

    Also, depending on where you are traveling, it might be a good idea to talk to your doctor about carrying certain Rx medications with you for emergencies. Such as antibiotics for traveler’s diarrhea or other infections and illnesses you might catch while there.

    In your first aid kit, include essentials like bandages, antiseptic wipes, and pain relievers.

    Customize your first aid kit based on your specific destination and planned activities to ensure you’re prepared for potential minor mishaps.

    List of Medications and First Aid Supplies:

    • Prescription Meds (personal)
    • Emergency Rx Meds (Antibiotics, Anti-nausea Meds)
    • Written Rx’s (if you’ll need a refill)
    • OTC Medications (Pain reliever, Allergy med, Imodium, Motion Sickness med, Pepto tablets, Immunity supplements)
    • First aid kit (Bandages, Antiseptic Wipes, Antibiotic Ointment)
    A cozy scene by the window shows a bright red scarf draped over an open book and a mug of tea, with a snowy forest visible outside. This image evokes warmth and relaxation during the winter months, serving as a reminder to pack cozy essentials like scarves and something to enjoy during downtime, like a good book.

    Miscellaneous Must-have Items:

    When gearing up for a winter getaway, it’s good to remember that packing goes beyond the essentials. It’s not just about warm clothing and travel documents; there are some miscellaneous items that will greatly enhance your winter adventure.

    These little helpers can make your journey not only more convenient but also more enjoyable.

    Let’s take a closer look at these often overlooked yet indispensable miscellaneous must-haves that can be real game-changers during your winter trip.

    A person walks through a snow-covered landscape holding an umbrella and a striped bag, with snow falling all around. Dressed in dark winter attire, the person leaves footprints in the fresh snow.

    List of Must-have Miscellaneous Items:

    • Travel guidebooks or Maps
    • Language translation apps
    • Umbrella or Raincoat
    • Reusable water bottle
    • Travel-sized laundry detergent and stain remover
    • Plastic bags for wet or dirty items
    • Notepad and pen
    • Travel locks for securing your luggage
    • Multi-tool or Swiss Army knife (not in your carry on!)
    • Travel pillow and eye mask
    • Thermal travel mug for hot beverages on the go
    • Snacks and energy bars
    • Entertainment for kids (if traveling with children)
    • GPS device (if traveling in remote areas)
    • Day Pack/Backpack
    • Rechargeable Hand Warmer and Toe Warmers
    • Vacuum-Seal Compression Bags
    A person is seen packing a suitcase, kneeling on the bed to fit in layers of clothing, including a pink puffer jacket, shirts, and pants. The image captures the last-minute effort to pack efficiently for a trip.

    Bonus Winter Packing Tips:

    Check the Weather Forecast

    Before you leave, regularly monitor the weather forecast for your destination. I like to look at the weather a week before I leave and then three days before. This way, I can adjust my packing and plans accordingly if I need to.

    Research Your Destination

    Understand the climate, local customs, and potential weather-related challenges at your destination. This knowledge will help you make informed decisions and pack more efficiently.

    A person stands facing a misty, snow-covered landscape, wearing a cozy knit hat, a plaid scarf, a tan coat, and a brown backpack. The scene captures the quiet beauty of a winter hike through a forested area. This image emphasizes the importance of packing warm, layered clothing, accessories like scarves and hats, and a sturdy backpack for winter explorations.

    Layering for Comfort

    Layering is the key to staying comfortable in any cold situation. Start with a high-quality, moisture-wicking base layer to keep sweat away from your skin. I really love my Smartwool tops and Smartwool bottoms! Can’t recommend them enough!!

    I know that looking cute and fashionable is a priority, too! I totally get it! As long as you invest in good quality, warm base, and mid layers, you can switch up the outerwear to something more fashionable and still be comfortable and warm!

    Use Compression Packing Bags

    These bags were a game changer for my winter packing! They help suck all the air out of your bulky sweaters, puffer coats, etc.

    Pro Tip: Be sure to grab some tape and a marker to label what each gag contains. For example, I like to keep tops in one and bottoms in another.

    Pack Smart

    Pack versatile pieces that can be mixed and matched, reducing the number of items you need to pack.

    When I’m packing, if an item doesn’t go with at least 90% of the other items, then It doesn’t get to go! Sometimes, this is heartbreaking, and it took me a while to break my old habits, but the more you do it, the easier it gets and the happier and less stressed you’ll be!

    A woman stands in a snow-covered forest with her arms outstretched, enjoying the falling snow. She is wearing a tan winter coat, black gloves, and a red knit hat. This image captures the joy of winter and highlights the need for warm clothing, including coats, hats, and gloves.

    Plastic Bags

    Pack a few plastic bags for storing wet or dirty items separately from your clean clothes. They can also come in handy for organizing items within your luggage.

    If you are anti-plastic, I found these handy wet bags and have fallen in love with them! They are incredibly useful for more than I can tell you. But I’ll just say where it’s cold, there’s usually snow. So these little buggers help keep my bag from getting soggy!

    More Information About Winter Travel

    Winter Destinations: Looking for a winter getaway? Check out The Best Warm Winter Vacations USA for sunny spots to escape the cold. If you’re in the holiday spirit, explore the Best Christmas Vacations USA Has to Offer for the top festive destinations.

    Leavenworth Washington: If your planning a trip to the Village of Lights my guide to Christmas in Leavenworth covers everything you need to know for a holiday visit, and I cover all the Fun and Festive Things to Do in Leavenworth in Winter.

    Winter Travel & Packing Tips: Get ready for your winter trips with my Ski Trip Packing List to make sure you pack everything you need. For stress free travels, read our Holiday Travel Tips, and if you’re looking for seasonal fun, our Winter Bucket List has plenty of ideas.

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      That’s a Wrap on This Winter Packing List

      With this Winter Packing List in hand, you’ll be ready to tackle any winter adventure your headed-on.

      Don’t forget to print the Free Winter Packing List Checklist I made for you!

      Thanks for reading.

      Catch ya later!