It is always great to get away in the winter months and explore the cities which come alive in the snow and dark evenings. Across Europe, and beyond, you’ll find snow-speckled skylines, complete with Christmas markets and a festive atmosphere.
But while the sheer number of destinations might provide a headache, there will be an even bigger one in the need to pack wisely.
Packing for a winter break can be tricky, mainly because you have to be prepared for all eventualities. To help, here is a list of the essentials for a winter getaway…
The right type of footwear
At the top of the list has to be a pair of comfy winter boots. These will keep your feet warm and dry. Plus, provided you choose wisely, comfortable as well. Just be careful to wear them in well before you leave for your winter break. That way you can avoid ending up with painful blisters. It is also wise to avoid those that have thin soles. If the soles are too thin you will find your feet get very cold when you are waiting for buses or trains.
Speaking of socks
Now that I have mentioned socks I must highlight the fact that they are a winter break essential. You need at least three pairs, more if you have space. That way you can wear two pairs if it is particularly cold and have at least one spare pair to hand.
Plan to dress in layers
The best way to stay warm, by far, is to dress in layers. So, take a couple of blouses that you can wear over the top of a t-shirt. It is always a good idea to pack at least one pair of leggings. These can easily be worn under trousers or jeans to keep you warm. Not to mention the fact that the right pair can look fabulous paired with a good dress and high boots. It is also worth taking at least one cardigan or jumper.
A good coat
A warm and windproof coat is an absolute must. Make sure it is big enough to wear over the top of your clothes when you are wearing the maximum number of layers.
It is always worth wearing a hat, gloves and a scarf. You lose a lot of heat through your extremities, so really need to protect them.
Make sure all of your outerwear is waterproof
It is always wise taking the time to check that your coat, boots and hat all offer you a reasonable level of protection from the rain. You can do so by turning the shower on low and quickly passing each item under the stream of water. When you do this, be careful not to let the water get inside your things. If they turn out not to be waterproof, buy a good water repellent spray and use that to solve the problem. This short video will help you to buy the right type of product for the job.
