The Perfect Winter Trip Packing List For Women: What to Pack for Winter Travel (in a Carry-on!)

Traveling this winter and looking for the perfect winter trip packing list to fit in a carry-on? Here’s the ultimate packing list for winter travel, with tons of helpful tips!

For the longest time, I avoided winter trips. As someone who has lived in California all her life, I just didn’t know how to deal with the cold, nevermind what “real cold” was. I mean, over here in Southern California, people think 60 degrees is cold and 50 degrees is freezing.

But then there are some amazing flight deals in the winter (helloooo $300 round trip flights to Europe). And Christmas Markets are magical. And well, you can’t deny that those winter wonderland vibes are pretty.

My first few winter trips, I had no idea how to pack. I never really had to dress for “real cold” so I had no clue how. I just packed a random hodgepodge of layers that I thought were warm enough but didn’t really work together, and I ended up being cold and miserable the entire trip anyway.

It took me a while, but I’ve finally figured out how to pack for winter! These days, I’ve figured out my winter trip packing list down to a science. Yes, even to fit into a carry-on because I travel carry-on only 99% of the time. 

Over the years, I’ve come to learn that the saying “there’s no such thing as bad weather, just bad clothing” to be true. It just takes a little bit of planning and picking the right layers to stay warm in the clothes.

These days, I try to take a winter trip at least once a year, because at some point every year I inevitably get tired of the sunshine (it should not be 80 degrees over Christmas, y’all) and start craving some snow. 

And my packing list for winter travel has served me well for a variety of trips, from exploring Christmas Markets in Germany, wandering the fairytale town of Quebec City (in single digit temperatures), experiencing the Christmas magic of NYC, and more.

Keep on reading for the perfect winter packing list, along with super helpful tips so that you can stay warm and make it all fit in a carry-on!

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A Few Winter Travel Packing List Tips

• How to find good quality winter gear for less: I know that buying good-quality winter gear can get super expensive, especially if you live in a warmer climate and don’t necessarily wear them often. However, I recommend investing in the best quality items that you can afford, because good gear can make all the difference!
  
  I always recommend checking out the outlet section on REI for good deals on high-quality items. Outlet stores are also a fantastic place to look for brand-name items for less (I’m a big fan of the Columbia outlet!). I also have tons of pieces from Uniqlo (and am a HUGE fan of their Heattech shirts as base layers), which has great pieces at affordable prices. Lastly, you can scour second-hand sites such as Thredup.
  
• Wear your heaviest items on the plane: This is my biggest hack in packing for a winter trip in a carry-on! By wearing your heaviest items on the day of travel, you will save so much valuable space in your carry-on, which means that you can bring more stuff. Wear your coat, your heaviest sweater, thickest scarf, and your winter boots on the plane. You might feel ridiculous, but you can always strip your layers off once you board (they also make excellent pillows and blankets).
  
• Check the weather: The weather may vary greatly depending on where you’re going, so be sure to check the weather before you start packing. It might end up being warmer than you’re expecting, in which case you might not need as much stuff. Or, it might end up being colder and you may need some extra layers. Do your research ahead of time when planning your winter trip packing list, so you’re appropriately prepared!
  
• Layers are your best friend: Any successful winter packing list will have one thing in common: it includes lots of layers! This will help you not only build different outfits, it will help you stay warm outside  in the cold, yet not overheat inside when the heater is blasting. You’ll want to wear a base layer, mid layer (like a sweater), and an outer layer.

• Don’t be afraid to wear items on repeat: Since you’re going to be wearing layers, don’t be afraid to repeat items like sweaters and pants. This will help you save soooo much space, since these items take up a lot of space.

• Don’t forget the accessories: This is a fun way to mix things up and create different looks, even though you’re wearing the same pieces. Not only that, those cold weather accessories are functional and will keep you warm! Be sure to pack a warm hat, a scarf, and some gloves.
  
• Plan your outfits ahead of time: By planning what you’re going to wear ahead of time, you’ll avoid bringing items that you don’t need. This way, you’ll ensure that you have a sufficient amount of clothing on your winter travel packing list, but don’t have a bunch of extra items that you never end up wearing on your trip.
  
• Roll your clothes + use packing cubes: This is another one of my top space-saving hacks when packing for a winter trip! Rolling your clothes makes them fit much more tightly, and packing cubes will help you fit everything nicely and keep it organized. I didn’t even start packing cubes until a few years ago, and I don’t even know how I lived without them because they changed my life. Sounds dramatic, but seriously. Here are the packing cubes that I use.
  
• Plan to fit a week’s worth of stuff in a carry-on: I’ve found that one week is the sweet spot when packing for a winter trip in a carry-on. If your trip is longer than a week, plan to do laundry at some point during your trip.

The Ultimate Winter Trip Packing List

Packing Essentials

Carry-on luggage: Since you’re packing for a winter trip in a carry-on…you’re going to need a carry-on! I have a standard sized hard-shell luggage that has lasted me for years, but I know some people also swear by traveling with a large backpack. In order to avoid hefty fees, be sure to double check size and weight requirements for your airline. Budget airlines (and basic economy fares) usually have more restrictions, so pay attention to the allowed dimensions and weight as fees can be steep. 

Packing cubes: I’m a huge proponent of packing cubes as they help you save space AND pack more efficiently. It’s a must on any packing list for winter travel! These are the packing cubes I use, and I use them on every single trip (winter or not).

Personal Item: I use my personal item to fit extra stuff, in addition to packing all the essentials that I need to have on me. I always pack 1-2 changes of clothes, toiletries, electronics (i.e. camera equipment) and any important stuff. This is just in case they make me gate check my bag and it somehow doesn’t make it to my destination (yes, it’s happened to me).

I use my REI daypack, which I love because it’s got ample space and a good amount of pockets and compartments. You can also carry something that doubles as a daypack once you get to your destination, in which case you might want something more stylish.

Fanny pack or small crossbody bag: Having a fanny pack or a small crossbody bag are great because you can hide them under your jacket when you board. I love it for having important stuff like your passport and boarding pass within easy reach, because it’s annoying to have to dig through your backpack to find them as you’re boarding.

I also carry it around once I arrive at my destination, to carry important stuff while I’m walking around town. It’s also harder for thieves to snatch your stuff if you’re wearing it under your outerwear.

Tote bag: I like carrying the rest of my stuff with me in a tote bag. Be sure to hold it securely so no one steals your stuff (but I recommend carrying the important stuff under your outerwear, as I mentioned above). It easily folds up so you can stick it inside your luggage or personal item. You can pack a foldable grocery tote (Baggu makes my favorites), or just use any cute tote you have on hand.

Air Tag: I highly recommend throwing an air tag inside your bags, even if you don’t plan to check bags. There’s a chance that they may end up getting gate checked anyways. This is especially important if you have a layover. And, it’s just extra peace of mind in case you somehow misplace your stuff.

Luggage locks: Prevent your stuff from getting stolen by using a TSA approved luggage lock. If you’re traveling by train, also get a bike lock in order to chain your stuff to the luggage racks.

Clothing for Your Cold Weather Packing List

The Outer Layers

Warm winter coat: If there’s one *must* for your winter trip packing list, make it a warm winter coat! It’s the layer that will keep you warm when you’re outside in those freezing cold temps. Get something that comes down mid-thigh for the most warmth. Make sure it’s water resistant so it will keep you dry from the elements.

Buy the highest quality coat that you can afford, as I’ve come to realize that investing in quality gear is definitely worth it. That said, I’ve had a coat I bought on Black Friday for $40 (similar to this coat) that I’ve been wearing on all my winter trips for over 5 years now, and has worked really well. That said, I hope to upgrade and invest in a new coat soon (something like this one).

If your winter trip is a city trip and you want something more stylish, you can also get a wool trench coat, which is a timeless wardrobe piece.

Packable down jacket: Depending on where you’re headed and how cold it is, this might end up being the only piece of outerwear that you need. If your destination is super cold, however, a packable down jacket makes an ideal layering piece under your coat for extra warmth. 

I highly recommend a lightweight down jacket, which is also packable so it folds up into a compact size. I am a HUGE fan of my Patagonia NanoPuff jacket, Yes, it’s expensive, but it’s super lightweight and super warm! I found mine REI Outlet for a good price. If you’re on a budget, the Uniqlo Ultra Light Down Parkas are a good alternative. 

What to Wear Underneath Your Clothing

7 pairs of underwear: Or basically one pair for every day of your trip.

3 bras: This can be a mix of regular bras and sports bras. Personally, I much prefer wearing wireless bras or sports bras (I love the ones from the Crz Yoga brand on Amazon and have a bunch of them) because they’re way more comfortable.

3 base layers: Base layers are key components of your winter packing list! Good base layers will not only keep you warm and keep in the heat when you need it, but also keep you cool and dry when you don’t (like when you’re inside with the heater cranked up high).

I am a HUGE fan of the Uniqlo Heattech shirts, which I”ve been wearing for years! They’re lightweight, warm, moisture-wicking, and affordable. I’ve worn them everywhere from a Christmas Markets trip to Germany, to the freezing cold of Quebec City (I also once ran a marathon in them but that’s a different story lol). 

They even have extra warm and ultra warm versions too, if you’re going somewhere extra cold.

2-3 thermal tights or underwear: These will basically work like base layers for wearing under your pants or leggings. I love the Uniqlo Heattech thermal tights and they are an essential on my packing list for winter trips. You can also opt to wear thermal underwear or Long Johns instead.

What to Wear on Top

2-3 Sweaters: Your sweaters are going to be the layer in between your base layer and outerwear. They’re the layer that you have fun with (although you may find that you end up wearing your coat over them most of the time you’re outside).

That said, don’t overpack sweaters! They tend to be your bulkiest layers, so they will take up a lot of space. I recommend only packing 2 or 3, so you have a few to play around with but you’re still saving space. I also recommend only bringing 1 heavier sweater (wear it on the plane!), and the rest can be lighter weight ones.

I like to pack a cute white sweater that can go over any colored bottoms, something chunky for extra coziness (this is a nice solid color cable knit sweater, and I’ve worn this color blocked one on several winter trip, and i also love a good tunic sweater), and something with a print (like this colorful striped one I always get compliments on, or a polka dot one) for a fun touch.

Sweater dress: You can never go wrong with a good sweater dress! It will help you add a dressy touch, while also staying cozy and warm.

Turtleneck: Turtlenecks make a fantastic layering piece, and I always think turtlenecks look so classy! I love this Uniqlo Heattech one, which is thicker than a regular T-shirt material, but not as thick as a sweater. It’s also got the Heattech technology, so it will act as a base layer, but you can wear it like a sweater too.

Flannel button-down: A soft flannel button-down is a perfect winter layering piece. It’s super comfortable and is great for wearing over your base layer, or under sweaters and cardigans! 

Cardigan: A cardigan is another great layering piece that you can throw over a base layer or turtleneck. They’re versatile, easy to get on and off, and are nice and cozy.

What to Wear on the Bottom

1-2 pairs of jeans or pants: I’m personally a fan of skinny jeans (hey, I’m a Millennial after all), which tuck in nicely under your boots and keep the warmth in. My favorites from Uniqlo and Old Navy. One tip is to make sure they aren’t too tight because you want your thighs or thermal underwear to fit comfortably under them.

1-2 pairs of fleece-lined leggings: Personally, I find leggings way more comfortable (they also take up less space) so I’d pack 1 pair of jeans and 2 pairs of leggings, but you can go the other way around. These are my go-to pairs, which are super comfy and warm because of the fleece, and come with pockets which are super convenient! Wear your thermal tights underneath for extra warmth.  

1 skirt: Not only is it fun to switch it up, a cute skirt looks amazing in photos! You can wear leggings and/or tights underneath to stay warm. I love a pleated chiffon skirt, a tulle midi skirt, or even a chiffon maxi skirt (I own multiples of these because they’re great for photos and easy to throw on top of your pants/leggings!). 

What to Wear on Your Feet

7 pairs of wool socks: Forget your regular cotton socks – you need Not just regular pairs of thick wool socks to keep your feet warm. They make all the difference in keeping your feet warm, trust me! My first time traveling in winter, I just wore normal socks and I was miserable. Now that I have wool socks (and warm boots), I never worry about my feet being cold.

1 pair of winter boots: A good pair of winter boots is another essential item on any packing list for winter travel. Invest in a pair that’s waterproof, so that your feet won’t get cold and wet when walking through snow or rain. You’ll also want to make sure they’re sturdy and comfortable.

My pair is from Columbia and I walked 30,000 steps every day for a week in them! They’ve sadly been discontinued, but here is a similar pair of boots, also from Columbia.

If you’re going somewhere that’s not freezing cold and isn’t snowy or icy, you can also opt to wear a pair of tall leather boots. I’ve done this for a few winter trips, but I would definitely not wear them if it’s going to snow a lot, or if there is ice on the streets.

I have a pair from Timberland that I LOVE and have worn for years, but have sadly been discontinued. This pair from Naturalizer is similar (and Naturalizer shoes tend to be super comfortable).

Ice grips: These might come in super handy if there’s a lot of ice on the streets! I wish I had these in Montreal, because the streets were so icy and I was slipping and sliding everywhere. I spent that trip wishing I had something that would prevent me from slipping, and then I discovered that I could’ve bought some ice grips. Definitely getting them for a future trip!

1 pair of other shoes (optional): Maybe you want options, need something dressier, or you want to switch it up to give your feet a break. If you have room, you can always pack a second pair of shoes.

You can bring a pair of ankle boots (these suede ones are a wardrobe staple for me), a dressier pair of flats (Rothy’s makes my favorites!), or a pair of comfy sneakers (Allbirds makes my go-to travel sneakers!).

1 pair of flip-flops: For running to the ice machine and don’t want to put actual shoes on, or for getting in and out of the hot tub.

Don’t Forget the Accessories!

1-2 warm scarves: A scarf is my favorite winter accessory! It keeps your neck and upper body warm, and there are so many fun styles out there to add a personal touch to your winter outfits. I love a good infinity scarf, and I love this blanket scarf as well.

1-2 winter hats or beanies: Another way to add a fun personal flair to your winter outfits! I love wearing pom-pom beanies in the winter, because they’re cute in photos and they keep your head warm (which we sometimes forget about!).

Knitted headband: Another way to keep your head warm, but to switch it up, or for when you want to wear your hair up. They also fit nicely under the hood of your coat.

Warm gloves: Because cold hands are the worst! I recommend packing a pair that is also touch-screen friendly so you can use your devices without taking your gloves off. 

Leg warmers: A fun accessory to wear over leggings or under a skirt, but they also add an extra layer of warmth as well. 

More Clothing Items to Include On Your Packing List for Winter Trips

1 pair of PJs: Honestly, my pajamas usually consist of raggedy sweatpants and whatever oversized T-shirts I have in my collection. But you can also get a cute PJ set like this one.

Bathing suit: I know it seems counter-intuitive to include a bathing suit on a cold weather packing list, but you might want one for using the hot tub, or if your destination has heated thermal baths.

Toiletries and Health Stuff

Hanging toiletries bag: This is the best way to keep all your toiletries, meds, makeup, etc. organized. It also helps that you can hang it, because sometimes sink space can be limited.

Travel sized containers: I highly recommend getting some travel sized toiletry containers so you can take along your favorite toiletries, skin care products, etc. but without lugging around the full-sized bottles. That will make everything carry-on compliant too!

Shampoo, conditioner, soap/shower gel: Honestly, there’s no need to bring these unless you’re super attached to them (in which case, use the travel sized containers). I just use whatever the hotel provides (which are usually higher end items than I use anyway lol). If you’re not staying in the a hotel, then you may want to bring your own.

Makeup: I highly recommend going through your make up and whittling it down to only the products you absolutely need. You’ll save so much space that way!

Lotion: Winter weather tends to dry out your skin, so be sure to pack your favorite lotion!

Sunscreen: It might be winter, but the sun is still strong! Be sure to pack some sunscreen.  This sunscreen is my favorite (and this is the perfect top-off for your face).

Lip balm: The cold will dry out your lips as well, so be sure to bring along some lip balm to keep them moisturized!  This is my favorite lip balm that I’ve been using since high school.

Face wash + makeup remover: This is my favorite face wash, and it comes in a travel size as well. Another one of my travel musts are makeup remover wipes, which make it soooo easy to wipe off your makeup after a long day.

Moisturizer: The cold weather dries your skin out, so keep it moisturized! This is my favorite moisturizer that I’ve been using for years (it also comes in a travel size).

Deodorant

Toothbrush, toothpaste, and floss: I like traveling with a Quip brush because it’s battery-operated and compact.  

Hair brush: A compact travel-sized brush will help you save space.

Hair ties: Because you can never have too many!     

Hair styler: Honestly, I don’t even bother styling my hair on winter trips because it ends up turning into crazy hat hair anyway. But if you insist, I recommend a 2-in-1 hair styler for versatility. 

Prescription meds: If you’re on any prescription meds, be sure to bring the original bottle with your name on it, or the actual prescription. 

OTC meds: Yes, you can buy these on your trip if you need them, but trekking to the pharmacy while you’re not feeling well (especially with a language barrier) is something no one wants to deal with. Bring some basic over the counter medications for you, like Advil or Tylenol, Pepto Bismol, etc.

First aid kit: It’s never a bad idea to be prepared with some basic first aid items. This compact travel sized first aid kit has all the essentials.

Hand sanitizer: Help keep those germs away!

Face masks: I know, I know, the pandemic is over, blah blah. But…I don’t think it hurts to keep a few masks on hand. No one wants to end up sick because they were sitting next to someone who was hacking up a lung! I always travel with a few of these masks on hand.

Electronics to Pack for Your Winter Trip

Camera + Lenses + Memory Cards: Sure, you can use your phone to take pictures…but I always end up loving my camera photos more. My travel camera is the Sony a6000 (which is hard to find these days, so I suggest getting the upgraded Sony a6400 instead). It’s a mirrorless camera so it’s relatively lightweight but takes dSLR quality images – perfect for travel. My go-to lens is the Tamron 17-70mm f2.8 lens, which covers a nice range and the f2.8 is great for low light (perfect for shooting Christmas lights!). And don’t forget the memory cards (and bring extras too!)

Tripod + Remote: If you’re traveling solo, a tripod is a must if you want some photos of yourself. Get a tripod that’s sturdy yet lightweight (this is the one I travel with). While you can use the camera app to use your phone as a remote, I find it kind of wonky (at least for Sony) so I recommend getting this remote. I also carry a phone tripod everywhere). 

Camera charger: Don’t be the person who doesn’t bring their camera charger and then can’t photograph half their trip because their battery ran out. (PS cold weather drains your battery quicker too.

Phone charger: As I mentioned above, the cold drains your battery, so be sure to have a phone charger handy at all times! I never travel without this one, and never leave home without it. 

Power adapter: If you’re traveling abroad, you may need a power adapter to plug in your devices. Here’s my power adapter, that I’ve traveled with for years.

Kindle: I’m definitely a physical book person (something about smelling books and turning the pages, anyone with me here?!). But…it’s super annoying (not to mention bulky) to travel with physical books, so I highly recommend getting a Kindle Paperwhite instead. (I also recommend a Kindle Unlimited subscription to keep it loaded with good books – you can get a 30 day free trial here!)

The Important Stuff to Include On Your Winter Packing List

Passport: If you’re traveling abroad, don’t forget your passport! Also double check to see how long your passport is valid for. Different countries have different requirements (so double check!), but having 6 months validity is always a good idea,.

Visas: If you need them. And double check because you might need one even if you don’t think you need one! For example, if you’re planning to go to Europe in 2025, they are implementing an ETIAS travel authorization for travelers from many previously visa-free countries (including the United States). 

Copies of passport, ID, confirmations, travel insurance, etc: These are all a good idea to have!

Cash: Some countries may be more cash-based than others, so you’ll want to carry cash. Regardless, it’s always a good idea to have some cash on hand. This is especially so if you want to visit Christmas markets! I prefer to take out cash at an ATM upon arrival, instead of a currency exchange, which has unfavorable fees.

Travel Credit Card: Get something with no foreign transaction fees, and it’s a bonus when you get extra points for travel related purchases. My go-to is the Chase Sapphire Preferred, which gets you 3x points for travel and dining purchases, and 2x points for everything else. You also get a 25% bonus upon redeeming your points. There are also no foreign transaction fees, and the annual fee is a very reasonable $99. Use this link to get up to 75,000 bonus points when you are approved for the card.

Travel insurance: I *highly* recommend getting travel insurance, because you never know what will happen and it’s a good idea to be prepared just in case (especially these days)! Lately, I’ve been using SafetyWing. They cater towards digital nomads, but you don’t have to be a nomad to use it. The minimum duration for a policy is 4 weeks, but the pricing is still comparable (or even cheaper) to shorter policies from other companies. 

Travel document holder: Keep all of the above organized and readily available.

A Few More Handy Items to Pack…

Hand Warmers: I never thought to include hand warmers on my winter trip packing list, but someone gifted me some and they were a game-changer! You can get the regular single-use ones, or even rechargeable ones.

Reusable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated while on the go! The restaurants in some destinations don’t have free tap water, so I recommend carrying your own.

Liquid IV: Again, hydration is important! These are great for staying hydrated on the plane, and for *ahem* if you have too much mulled wine and Christmas cocktails. If your trip involves active stuff like skiing or snowshoeing, they help with soreness afterwards too. 

Quick dry travel towel: These are super handy to have and fold up into a compact size!

More winter guides you may enjoy:
Magical Things to Do in Quebec City in Winter
20 Incredible Things to Do in Montreal in Winter
The Ultimate Guide to Munich in Winter
14 Amazing Things to Do in Prague in Winter
How to Visit Neuschwanstein Castle in Winter
Dreamy Things to Do in Leavenworth, WA in Winter
Festive Things to Do in NYC in December
The Ultimate Europe Winter Packing List

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