Heading out for a winter trip? There’s something kinda magical about seeing the world wrapped in a big ol’ snowy blanket. But let me tell you; there’s nothing cool about freezing your toes off.
So, remember to toss those super snuggly scarves in your trusty thermal wear, and definitely don’t forget waterproof boots. I mean, who wants wet feet, right? Layer up and keep those chills at bay. Snowy adventures await, but let’s not turn into human icicles, okay? Safe travels, and stay toasty.
In this 2-week winter packing list, you’ll see important items to bring for all genders, from clothing, footwear, toiletries, documents, gadgets, and more. There’s also a packing list that you can print, suitable for all seasons.
PACKING TIPS FOR WINTER
To help you save some space and ensure that you won’t be bringing items that you most likely won’t be using, here are some packing tips for a winter trip:
- Wear the Heavy Stuff: To save suitcase space, wear your bulkiest items like heavy coats, boots, and scarves during travel.
- Rent Instead of Pack: If you’re planning on skiing, consider renting gear at your destination to save luggage space and potential airline fees.
- Opt for Layers: Bring versatile, thin layers to mix and match rather than multiple heavy sweaters.
- Moisture-Wicking Fabrics: Opt for thermal and moisture-wicking fabrics for base layers to stay warm and dry during outdoor activities.
- Multi-Use Items: Choose items that can be used in multiple settings; a good pair of waterproof boots can be used for both hiking and a casual day out.
- Compact Accessories: Use foldable and compact accessories like collapsible water bottles and foldable bags.
- Sealable Plastic Bags: Pack toiletries and any liquids in sealable plastic bags to avoid leaks and spills.
- Pack a Swimsuit: Even in winter, you may need a swimsuit for hot springs, saunas, or indoor pools.
- Space Saver Bags: Use vacuum-sealed space saver bags for bulky items like winter coats if you absolutely need to pack them.
- Plan for Tech: Keep electronic devices and chargers accessible; cold weather can affect battery life.
- Skip the ‘Just in Case’: Limit packing items you’ll only use in a ‘just in case’ scenario to save space.
- Snacks and Water: Always bring some water and small snacks; winter activities can be draining, and staying hydrated and energised is essential. If you have favourite protein bars or trail mix, pack some from your home.
2-WEEK WINTER PACKING LIST
Packing for a winter trip involves more than just bundling up. If you’re hitting the slopes, make sure to pack ski-specific gear like goggles, gloves, and thermal base layers. Don’t forget ski passes and perhaps a helmet or see if you can rent the gear from the ski resort you’re visiting.
On the flip side, if saunas or hot springs are on the agenda, bring a swimsuit that can handle hot temperatures, flip-flops, and a quick-dry towel. Whether skiing or soaking, moisture-wicking fabrics are key to keeping you comfortable. And regardless of your activities, remember that layering is your best friend in cold climates.
We have a regular packing list for a 14-day trip if you need more tips. Our summer packing list might not be helpful this season, but perhaps in 6 months!
Winter 2-week packing list for women
If you plan to take some cute and dreamy photos during your winter trip, don’t forget to plan outfits that can be mixed and matched together:
Clothing and footwear
- 14 pairs of underwear
- Bras (including sports bras)
- Thermal underwear (tops and bottoms)
- 14 pairs of socks (including wool or thermal options)
- Sleepwear (warm pajamas)
- 7-10 T-shirts/tops (for layering)
- 1-2 sweaters or pullovers
- 1-2 pairs of jeans/pants (including a thermal or fleece-lined option)
- 1-2 pairs of stockings
- Heavy winter jacket or coat
- Mid-weight jacket for layering
- 1-2 winter dresses/skirts (to be worn with leggings or tights)
- 1-2 leggings or tights (thermal if possible)
- 1-2 scarves (for variation and layering)
- Gloves or mittens
- Winter hat or beanie
- Ear muffs
- Waterproof raincoat or poncho (in case of wet conditions)
- Waterproof and insulated winter boots
- Casual walking shoes or booties
- Dress shoes or boots (for more formal occasions, only if planning to do a fancy dinner/event)*
Toiletries
- Toothbrush
- Toothpaste
- Dental floss
- Mouthwash
- Shampoo (preferably anti-dandruff for winter)
- Conditioner
- Body wash or soap
- Deodorant
- Face wash (hydrating formula) – CeraVe’s hydrating cleanser is a must
- Facial moisturizer (preferably with SPF) – try CeraVe’s cream
- Heavy-duty body lotion or cream
- Lip balm with SPF
- Sunscreen
- Makeup essentials (foundation, mascara, lipstick)
- Makeup remover
- Hairbrush or comb
- Hair ties and clips
- Hairspray or styling gel
- Razor
- Shaving cream
- Feminine hygiene products (tampons, pads, etc.)
- Contact lens case and solution (if needed)
- Hand sanitiser
- Travel-sized first aid kit (band-aids, antiseptics, pain relievers)
- Nail file or clipper
- Tweezers
- Hand cream
- Thermal water spray or hydrating face mist
- Bath towel (if staying in a hostel)
- Shower flipflops (if staying in a hostel)
Winter 2-week packing list for men
When it comes to clothing and footwear, there’s not much difference in a packing list for a woman to men. However, some items could be looked over. Here’s a basic but complete packing list for men during a winter trip:
Clothing and footwear
- 14 pairs of underwear
- Sets of thermal innerwear (both tops and bottoms)
- 14 pairs of socks (mix of woollen and thermal)
- Cosy sleepwear sets
- 7-10 Layering tees/tops
- 1-2 sweaters or pullovers
- Trousers (1-2 pairs, including some thermal or fleece-lined)
- Heavy-duty winter coat
- Medium-weight jacket (ideal for layering)
- 1-2 formal shirts (if attending any formal events)
- 1-2 winter scarves for warmth and style
- Gloves or mittens
- Winter hat or beanie
- Protective outerwear: waterproof raincoat or poncho
- Insulated, waterproof winter boots
- Everyday walking shoes or ankle boots
- Elegant shoes or boots for formal outings (if planning to do so)*
Toiletries
- Toothbrush
- Toothpaste
- Dental floss
- Mouthwash
- Anti-dandruff shampoo
- Body wash or soap
- Deodorant
- Face wash (hydrating or for sensitive skin)
- Facial/body moisturizer/lotion
- Lip balm with SPF
- Sunscreen
- Shaving razor – travel-sized razor
- Shaving cream or gel
- Aftershave balm or lotion
- Beard oil or balm (if applicable)
- Hairbrush or comb
- Hair gel or pomade
- Hand sanitiser
- Travel-sized first aid kit (band-aids, antiseptic, pain relievers)
- Contact lens case and solution (if needed)
- Nail clipper
- Tweezers
- Hand cream
- Bath towel (if staying in a hostel)
- Shower flipflops (if staying in a hostel)
Gadgets and documents
- Passport
- Visa (if needed)
- Travel insurance paper/card
- Hotel accommodation (get the address for the first hotel, some immigration offices will ask for this)
- COVID-19 vaccine card (including booster shots, research if your destination is asking for this)
- Yellow-fever vaccine card (if travelling to/from Yellow-Fever prone areas)
- Masks (in case the airline or the destination is required to wear one)
- Medication prescription
- Extra credit card/cash card (for emergency)
- Cash (in major currencies for emergencies)
- Phone charger
- Camera and charger
- Ebook/Kindle
- Notepad and pens
- Powerbank – 15,000 mAh is a good capacity
- Mini extension cord – cord that I always bring
FREE PRINTABLE PACKING LIST
Suppose you prefer a packing list that you can print and tick off one by one, get this printable packing list from us. It can be modified by season or type of trip (camping, backpacking, skiing, etc).
AWESOME SUITCASE, BACKPACK, AND LUGGAGE LIST
We recommend a few items for those looking for new luggage or thinking of getting one. I personally have 2 suitcases and 4 backpacks in various sizes and purposes. Perhaps you’ll find something here that you like, as well as durable:
- Osprey Farpoint 40L
- Osprey Ozone Wheeled Carry-on 42L
- Mountaintop Hiking Backpack 40L
- Samsonite Wheeled Backpack
- Travelpro 22-inch
- Standard Luggage 35L
- Kelty Redwing 50L Backpack
- Samsonite Freeform 21-inch
- American Tourister Belle Voyage Expandable Softside
REUSABLE PACKING CUBES AND COMPRESSION CUBES
Packing cubes can be useful depending on the person. Some people, such as my friend Ryan don’t like them. But I love my packing cubes, especially that one I could velcro together. With that, it feels like I have a mini closet in a hotel. Here’s a list of the best travel cubes you can check out:
- Amazon Basics 4-set
- Veken 6-pack with a laundry bag
- Osprey 3-set
- Bagail 6-pack with shoes/laundry bag
USEFUL TOILETRY BAG
I lost count of how many toiletry bags I’ve had. This is because I started with cheap ones, and then moved on to the wrong material. A liquid will inevitably explore in a toiletry bag. This means that you should get one that is 100% washable and 100% waterproof so the leak won’t spread outside the bag. So far, these are the toiletry bag I recommend:
FINAL THOUGHTS ON 2-WEEK WINTER PACKING LIST
Winter trip is my least favourite time of the year to pack for. Everything feels bulky and head, taking up so much of my luggage space. However, it doesn’t have to be an all-day stress. One top tip is to wear a jacket, scarf, and heavy boots. Another trick is to buy some toiletries at your destination.
Once you complete your checklist, I recommend you pack 2-3 days before your trip to see if you can fit everything. Doing this gives you plenty of time to pick out what not to bring if you can’t fit them all and upgrade your checked if needed without paying for “airport luggage price”.
I hope that this 2-week winter packing list has been helpful in finding out what you need for a cold trip. Perhaps the printable checklist has been useful too.