If you are visiting Europe in winter, you better come prepared because the chilly weather sweeping across the continent is no joke.
With constant dread of snow/rain, unpredictable temperatures, and the need to pack light, you are likely sitting with your head in your hands. Curating a packing list with all the essentials for a Europe trip in winter is more challenging than it is in other seasons. If you don’t know where to start, follow our winter packing guide—it will help you tackle even the harshest weather conditions during your holiday while taking care of your needs.
Packing big, fluffy sweaters and cardigans to keep you warm is a terrible idea. Such woollen garments capture a lot of space and are useful only in extremely chilly weather conditions. Additionally, if you depend on layering to keep yourself warm, your garments can promptly adjust to the rapidly changing and varying weather conditions across Europe.
You might be tempted to pack a suitcase full of cute skirts and floral dresses because looking cute in photos is essential. But sadly, the harsh winter of Europe will likely force you to wear your coat 99 per cent of the time. Don’t even dare to step out without a coat.
Jeans are the most convenient and popular option for pants, but they might be a bit impractical in European winter. Jeans are made of denim, and it typically absorbs cold faster than other fabrics or materials. So, chances are, you will feel colder in jeans than in trousers made of other materials. However, when visiting places with milder climates (like South and Western Europe), jeans will work just fine.
Another winter essential that will save your day. Don’t forget to pack two pairs of thermal pants or fleece leggings to layer with your pants/jeans when heading out for longer explorations, especially away from the city. Additionally, you can also style them as loungewear.
Leave behind your frail ankle-length socks because they will be ineffective in Europe. Throw in some thick woollen or thermal socks to keep your feet warm. You would not want to experience the bitter pain of frozen toes during your holiday.
A reliable pair of winter boots or comfortable sneakers are essential—even better if it is waterproof outside. Pack the warmest winter shoes and a pair of easy-to-slide-in flip-flops to walk in your hotel’s communal areas and room.
In Europe, carrying an umbrella everywhere may not be essential, but some cities like London are unpredictable. Also, if you are travelling to places with mild weather, you might catch a light shower. So pack a travel-friendly mini umbrella—just in case.
Another troubling aspect of winter travel includes the rapid drainage of batteries. In cold weather, batteries die faster than usual. Batteries powering our smartphones and cameras depend on chemical reactions to work, and lower temperatures slow down these reactions, causing batteries to lose power or discharge more quickly. So, carry a power bank to charge your devices like cameras and phones while travelling.
Pack a scarf that will keep your throat warm and complement most of your outfits (if not all). Do not dare set foot in Europe without a woollen hat that can protect your ears from chilly winds. Plus, they look cute.
You cannot predict European weather, and forecasts don’t help either. So, prepare yourself for drizzly days, hail, snow, torrential downpours, and clear blue skies. If you are prepared to face all the possible elements, you will likely be able to enjoy your holiday to the fullest!
