Packing for Your Snowy Holidays

Whether you are headed to Aussie snowfields this winter or planning a trip overseas in the New Year, we’re happy to share our best packing advice for you next winter adventure. Snowy adventures require a bit of planning to ensure you stay warm, dry, and comfortable. Here are some essential tips to help you pack effectively:

Layers, Layers, and More Layers!

If it is chilly outside you can expect every restaurant, shop, and hotel to be cranking the heat keep customers comfortable and cosy. It is important to wear plenty of layers, so you can remove items as you begin to get too warm or add accessories for chillier adventures. We recommend starting with a moisture wicking base-layer, adding an insulating mid-layer, and finish with a waterproof outer layer to protect against the wet and wind.

Base Layer: This is the layer that’s closest to your skin. It should be made of moisture-wicking material like merino wool or synthetic fabrics to keep you dry. Avoid materials like cotton as it retains moisture and can freeze against the skin making you colder than necessary. Don’t forget your leggings to keep your legs toasty. Merino Wool is the best for this as it naturally wicks moisture away from the body, odour resistant, and dries quickly.

Middle Layer: This is your insulation layer. It traps heat to keep you warm. Fleece jackets, light down and wool sweaters are great options for this layer. Usually, this layer is your outfit or the layer you’ll be wearing inside in most cases.

Outer Layer: This is your protection layer against wind, rain, and snow. It should be waterproof and breathable. Look for jackets and pants with a high waterproof and wind rating. If you are participating in winter sports, this jacket should have a snow skirt on the inside to prevent snow from flying up into your jacket.

Accessories

Quality accessories will make all the difference on a snow trip. Pack gloves, headwear, neckwear, eyewear, sunscreen and thermal socks to keep extremities warm. These items are essential for protecting your extremities, which are most vulnerable to the cold.

Gloves: We recommend having two pairs gloves for your snowy adventures. A lighter pair for cruising around town and to wear when you first hop in the car- trust us, that steering wheel will be icy cold! This pair will usually have the touch pad on the fingers to allow you to use your mobile without removing your gloves. The second pair would be a pair of waterproof and wind-resistant gloves for any and all winter sport activites. These will be better at keep your hands warm on the chair lifts, snow mobiles, or tubing adventures. Consider mittens if you need extra warmth as the mitten allows your digits to keep each other warm rather than separating them like gloves do. If you have particularly sweaty palms, follow the rule of using moisture wicking base-layer like merino wool glove liners to help keep your hand dry and warm.

Headwear: Beanies come in a variety of different materials and thicknesses. Use the thin Merino Wool beanie under helmets to keep your head warm and dry. This thin layer is also a nice layer of protection if you are needing to rent your snow sport helmet. For everyday wear, pick your favourite colour and materials for your style. The fleece-lined beanies will be the warmest and allow the least amount of cold air through. The looser knit wool beanies are good for those who don’t like a snug fit but still want to have warm ears. This style also breathes really well to prevent having a sweaty head.

Neckwear: It is important to protect your neck from the wind and wet. Using a scarf, balaclava, or neck gaiter will keep the weather out of your jacket and can be pulled up to cover your face.

Eyewear: The glare from the snow can be harmful to your eyes. Sunglasses or goggles with UV protection are a must.

Sun & Wind Protection: Always wear sunscreen & UV lipbalm if you can't cover up or it’s too warm to cover up in snowy conditions. Snow is super reflective and while the Goggle Tan is a badge of honour in some ski towns, it makes for a funny tan line back in the office after your holiday. Ideally while hitting the slopes, wear something over your face to protect from wind burn. Without it you’ll end up with a chapped face, instead of just chapped lips.

Socks: Nothing is worse in cold weather than wearing cotton socks that don’t moisture wick or dry fast. Ideally wearing Merino wool blended or synthetic socks is best for winter adventures. Keeping your toes warm and cosy is essential to having a good time.

Bring the Right Footwear

Proper footwear is crucial for a snow trip. Pack waterproof boots with good traction to navigate snowy and icy terrain safely. Consider bringing a pair of indoor shoes or slippers for cozy evenings in your accommodation.

Boots: Look for waterproof boots with good insulation or room for a heavy cushion merino wool sock. They should also have non-slip soles, with rugged traction for safety on icy surfaces. Shoes and joggers won't cut it and you'll have wet cold feet in no time as roads and sidewalks become slushy after fresh snow. 

Socks: Pack several pairs of thermal socks. Like your base layer, they should be made of moisture-wicking material. If you are hitting the slopes, check out the ski and snowboarding socks, as they have cushioning in targetted spots to make the boots more comfortable.

Organize with Packing Cells

Stay organised while travelling by using packing cells to separate and compress your clothing. This will not only save space in your luggage but also make it easier to find items quickly without unpacking everything. Wear your heaviest coat and boots while travelling to save space in your luggage. Winter jackets usually make good travel pillows if you can roll or stuff the jacket into the hood or sac. Check our XTM's NEW Range of Puffer Jackets that come with a Travel Pillow shaped sac to stuff your jacket into!

By following these tips, you’ll be well-prepared for your snow holdiay. Remember to check the weather forecast and adjust your packing list accordingly. And don’t forget to throw in your swimmers to hit up the hot spa after a long day on the slopes. Have a fantastic trip and enjoy the snow!

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