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The weather · Cold, wind and short days

Snow and winter trips: what to pack

Cold trips are about layers and the small things that stop heat escaping: hands, head and feet. A good jacket matters, but most people feel the cold first in their fingers and ears.

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The kit list

Short winter days also mean walking in the dark more than you expect, so a light you can wear or clip on earns its place. And snow melts, so anything that keeps a bag and its contents dry helps.

The kit below works for a ski trip, a Christmas market weekend or a winter walk in the hills. It is light enough to carry all day and packs down when you get indoors.

Keep warm

Thermal layers
A warm base layer under normal clothes makes cold days comfortable.
Warm gloves
Touchscreen fingertips mean you can use your phone without taking them off.
Warm hat
Ear flaps keep the wind off when it is cold and exposed.
Good socks
Comfortable, breathable socks prevent most blisters on long days on your feet.
Waterproof jacket
A shell you can wear over layers when the weather turns.

Light and dry

Head torch
Hands-free light for paths, tents, power cuts and finding things in the dark.
Pocket torch
A small torch on your keys or bag is always there when you need it.
Backpack rain cover
Slips over your pack in a shower so what is inside stays dry.
Dry bag
Keeps phone, keys and a change of clothes dry on boats, beaches and in the rain.

Travel

Packing cubes
Cubes keep each type of clothing together, so you find things without emptying the bag.
Travel pillow
Supports your neck on flights, trains and long drives so you arrive less stiff.
Sleep eye mask
Blocks cabin lights and early sun so you can sleep on the way.
Luggage scale
Weigh the bag before you leave so there is no surprise fee at the airport.

Tips for the trip

  • Wear thin layers rather than one thick one, so you can take one off indoors.
  • Keep phone batteries warm in an inside pocket; cold drains them quickly.
  • Pack gloves and hat in your hand luggage so you have them the moment you land.
  • Dry wet gloves and socks overnight; damp kit feels much colder the next day.

Questions

Do touchscreen gloves work with every phone?

They work with most modern touchscreens through the treated fingertips. Very thick screen protectors can make them less responsive.

What is the most important thing for a cold trip?

Keeping hands, head and feet warm and dry. Most heat loss people notice is from those, so gloves, a hat and good socks come first.

How long does delivery take?

Each product page shows delivery time to your country before you pay. Order early for Christmas and New Year trips.

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