How to Pack for a Cold-weather Destination
It's not about bringing a ton of layers—just the right ones.
I just got back from a week of skiing in Switzerland—story coming out in Town & Country next month—and I immediately unpacked and threw everything into the laundry for a quick turnaround to another ski town with below-freezing temperatures: Jackson Hole, Wyoming. I’ve done a Switzerland packing list and a ski trip packing list in the past, so I figured I’d change things up for this one.
To keep it brief, here’s how I pack for any cold-weather destination, featuring my most-worn winter boots (this is my fourth season bringing them on every trip) and the base layers I return to again and again.
Start with the proper footwear.
I was gifted a pair of lace-up, waterproof, shearling-lined La Canadienne boots years ago, and I’ve been raving about them ever since. Unfortunately, I can’t find the exact style anywhere online anymore, but this one is functionally similar—waterproof, same materials, lots of traction, and, most importantly, super warm. Leave any boots that won’t hold up to moisture or aren’t designed with traction at home.
Invest in decent socks.
Now’s not the time for slightly worn-out cotton socks. Instead, bring Smartwool socks. Trust me, they’re worth it (and they still let your feet breathe).
Bring base layers (even if you’re not skiing).
Jeans or a pair of leggings and a cotton long-sleeve T-shirt aren’t going to cut it in cold temperatures. You need to have base layers, preferably ones made of merino wool, to wear if you’ll be spending a decent amount of time outside. I’m partial to Halfdays base layers, but I also have a set from Amazon.
Sponsored: Months ago, I (organically) shared how I’ve been bringing a pair of Cakes on most trips, instead of packing a regular bra. The Grippy Cakes Circles are my go-tos, but the brand recently came out with a few different versions, including Sticky Cakes Circles. While I don’t wear them as often in the winter, they do come in handy if I’m wearing a tank top or a silky top to dinner. Bonus: They make for a great stocking stuffer for the traveler in your life.
Don’t underestimate a mid-layer jacket or vest.
I like to have some sort of mid-layer in my suitcase, whether I’m skiing or sightseeing somewhere cold. Right now, it’s either this North Face vest or a fleece jacket similar to this Columbia one. Both serve as extra layers of defense—or, if the temperatures unexpectedly warm up, they can replace my heavier coat.
Pack a couple of winter accessories.
I’ve never really been big on scarves or hats, but I got this Amazon travel wrap a couple of months ago and have been using it as an extra layer. It’s perfect if the restaurant is slightly chilly (but not cold enough to wear a jacket) or if you want to wear it as a scarf while outdoors. I also love my Hestra gloves; they have removable liners, so they’re incredibly versatile
Be thoughtful about your heavy coat.
You only have room for one heavy coat (and you’ll be wearing it in transit), so you have to make it count. Before leaving for Switzerland, I carefully monitored the weather app, and temperatures in St. Moritz and Zermatt were frequently in the 20s. So I knew I’d need something extra heavy. Luckily, Overland gifted me this reversible sheepskin coat ahead of the trip; I wasn’t cold once. If you’re not a fan of fur, consider one of these two down styles (and note the neck protection, too).
Don’t forget the loungewear.
This is one packing mistake I’ve made a few times. I get so focused on having outfits for outdoor adventures and fancier dinners, I forget that I’ll be spending a significant amount of time just lounging indoors, possibly by a fire. Now, I always make sure to pack at least one pair of somewhat elevated sweatpants (like these from Aritzia) and a sweatshirt or cozy sweater.
