Winter Packing List for Europe | Travel Must-Haves for Women

Discover all the essentials to keep you warm and fashionable with my winter packing list for Europe. These are my tried and true staples. Perfect for not just Europe but any winter destination!

After multiple questions and requests to share what I wear/pack for winter in Europe, I decided it was time to dedicate a post to the subject.

Jake and I often spend our Christmas holidays in Europe. There are few places that go all out on the decorations, lights, Christmas markets, holiday treats, and overall festive atmosphere like Europe.

While this post will focus on my winter packing list for Europe, you can really use this guide for any winter destination.

The destinations we visit have temperatures ranging from the mid-20s to mid-40s (if we're lucky). There might be snow flurries, but more often than not it's damp and wet (which is far colder than a dry day filled with snow).

If your destination will be similar to these conditions, this Europe winter packing list is sure to help!

I focus on winter must-haves that make long hours outdoors bearable. While comfort is key, finding items that look good is a priority as well. We always take so many photos during our winter vacations with all the beautiful markets, lights, and decor. Finding the balance between comfort and fashion can sometimes be difficult, but I've found some wonderful staples!

You'll also learn some packing tips on how to fit all these bulky items into your suitcase.

Now let's get into my winter packing list for Europe with travel must-haves for women!

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Winter packing list for Europe - outfit basics

I'll get into specific items and products below, but let's get the basic summary out of the way.

For my winter trips to Europe, I usually stick with dark jeans, black jeans, thick leggings, sweaters, and mid-length sweater dresses paired with thick wool tights.

I opt for natural fabrics, like wool and cashmere, as much as possible because they are much warmer than synthetic materials. While cashmere can get quite expensive, Nordstrom has a crewneck and v-neck cashmere sweater that I love for $100. 

My favorite leggings are:

• the Spanx faux leather fleece-lined for cold days (these keep going in and out of stock).
• I really like these Spanx faux suede leggings for when it's not too cold.
• love these new Alo winter warm air lift high-waist leggings and these Alo winter warm airbrush high-waist leggings.

A pair of running shoes and two or three boots/booties are all I pack for footwear. 

Winter coat

If you're going to invest in one item for your cold weather packing list for Europe, a warm (but lightweight) winter coat is it.

I tried to get by with cheap coats for years. After dealing with subpar warmth/weatherproofing and bulky/heavy outerwear, I decided that my Christmas gift would be a Canada Goose down coat. 

Hands down one of the best purchases and a game changer for my Europe winter packing list.

After much research, I chose the Canada Goose Alliston Coat. This specific version is no longer available, but the updated version is called the Aurora Parka. Not only does this coat keep me toasty in freezing conditions, but it's also very lightweight. When you're spending hours outside, those heavy coats can really start to weigh on your shoulders and back.

I wore this in Park City, Utah, when the temperatures were in the low 20s...it kept me perfectly warm for hours. The Thermal Experience Index rating for this coat is -5 to 15 degrees farenheight. I find I'm comfortable in this coat in temperatures ranging from 0 to 30+ degrees.

If you don't love the idea of a mid-thigh length coat, the Chelsea Parka is similar (same thermal index of -5 to 15), but sits just below the hip.

I've tried down alternative coats and they just didn't give the same amount of warmth as this one. Also, pea coats and wool coats won't cut it. Before Jake invested in his own down coat, he was wearing a lightweight down jacket under his pea coat to stay warm.

If you run on the cold side, I recommend finding a thigh-length coat to help keep your legs warm. This length is also nice because the coat covers your bum when you sit.

Wind and water-resistant is a must.

For those preferring a shorter option for mild climates, look at the Abbott Hoody. The Thermal Experience Index for this jacket is 21 to 41 degrees farenheight.

SEE my other travel tips:

17 Essentials for International Travel | Items to Pack for EVERY Trip

How to Pack Light for 2 Weeks | Carry On Only

BEST Places to Visit in Europe | 11 MUST-Visit Destinations

How to Travel Europe on a Budget | 13 Tips to Save Money

Winter boots

I typically only wear boots during my winter travels. They're comfortable and durable, plus you can pair them with thick socks to keep your feet warm and toasty. There are several types of boots I like to wear.

Hiker boot

While "hiker boot" may sound a bit intense or unfashionable, you'll be surprised that brands like Cole Haan and Sorel make cute and comfortable versions.

I like the hiker boots because they are usually waterproof or water-resistant. This is very important for a winter vacation. If it's not snowing, it will probably be raining or wet at some point. 

Hiker boots also have very grippy soles. Cobblestones can get very slick when wet. A sole with good traction and grip is key.

Lastly, many of these hikers have great insulation (faux fur, shearling, etc.). 

Favorite winter boots to include in your winter packing list:

Blondo is another brand I favor. Their boots are comfortable and waterproof (without looking waterproof). I like this version with the fur trim and this hiker style. For something less "wintry", check out the Dagger boot.

Sorel boots are top quality. The Snow Angel boots are extremely sturdy and will be great for all day wear (though they aren't my favorite in terms of look). Opt for these if you know you'll be trekking through snow or slush and you prioritize function over fashion. 

Unfortunately, Sorel stopped making my favorite design (Evie), but they can still be found at Nordstrom Rack.

Timberland Waterproof Boot - these are comfortable and durable. They're great for both fall and winter trips. I've had mine for several years and they've held up really well. Wear warm socks with these.

Winter packing list accessories

Earmuffs

Earmuffs - I usually opt for ear muffs over a hat to avoid flat hair...unless it's insanely cold. Nordstrom Rack has Ugg earmuffs every now and then at a great price.

Faux fur headband - perfect for a wintry look.

Aloyoga just started selling the most adorable faux fur hat. It's a cashmere beanie with an ultra fluffy faux fur headband around the perimeter.

Gloves

I typically bring one pair of lightweight gloves and use handwarmers/my coat pockets for when it gets super cold and a pair of Ugg gloves.

Touch screen compatibility is a must so you aren't taking your gloves on and off in the cold!

Canada Goose leather gloves - the perfect combination of warmth and luxury. If you want something sleek, these are a great option.

Athleta Softshell Glove - these are ideal for cold morning jogs as well as for daily wear. This pair is better than most "jogging gloves" because they have a brushed lining. Many lightweight/jogging gloves have zero lining and provide very little warmth. I also appreciate that they actually fit snug to your fingers and aren't too loose/feel like they were made for men.

Ugg shearling gloves - these will be the warmest gloves by far. I was hesitant to buy these because I thought they would feel incredibly bulky and inflexible. Not so. I was pleasantly surprised and am kicking myself for not buying these sooner.

If you're nervous about cold hands, these are a great bet. Nordstrom Rack usually has a large selection at a fraction of the cost.

Winter tights

One of my winter packing list secrets is to bring a pair of thick, wool tights. Tights you wear with dresses, not leggings.

I'll bring jeans one size too big (or just really stretchy) and wear tights underneath. This has saved me on days when it was extra cold and we were outside almost all day. 

Wool blends will be the warmest and I love these merino wool tights by Wolford and similar ones by Falke.

Socks

Winter socks are another small thing that can make a big difference. If you know you'll be out all day, walking from sight to sight, Christmas market to Christmas market, it's best to go with thick, padded socks. 

Smartwool is by far my favorite brand. I usually buy them from Amazon or Zappos.

Full cushion crew socks not only give extra comfort when you're on your feet all day, but they really do keep your feet warm. 

This thinner version is better with skinny jeans since they aren't as thick.

Bring a few ankle height socks if you plan on wearing booties/shorter boots.

A new find that I'm obsessed with are these Alo scrunch socks (take me back to my childhood days). I like to wear these with leggings.

Lastly, full on ski socks are not a bad idea for freezing temperatures.

Scarves

A big bulky scarf will easily go all the way to your chin, keeping all the cold air out. Plus, it can double as a wrap once you take your coat off.

Go luxe with a cashmere scarf. Natural wools are always warmer than synthetic materials.

Faux fur scarves are an easy way to dress things up a bit. 

Winter packing list miscellaneous items

Hand warmers - squeeze as many of these into your bag as possible. I almost always have one in each hand pocket. Some days I use four when I want them stuffed on top of my feet in my boots.

Rechargeable hand warmers - if you're going somewhere extremely cold, the disposable hand warmers aren't going to cut it. Opt for rechargeable ones instead.

Umbrella - chances that it will rain or mist are very high this time of year (in Europe). Make sure to bring a sturdy umbrella. I'm all about packing light and those tiny travel umbrellas, but this is not a trip to have a flimsy umbrella.

On every trip I've taken to Europe in December over the years, I've used my umbrella far more than I expected.

Winter packing list for Europe - working out and jogging

I have a few great finds to stay warm on your morning jogs.

Lululemon vest - pack one vest and several long sleeve shirts for your morning jogs. This will save suitcase space vs bringing tops that are thick and bulky. 

My favorite long sleeve tops are:

• Lululemon rest less ribbed pullover
• Lululemon Merino Wool-Blend Half Zip 
  
• Alo winter warm long sleeve
• Airlift Winter Warm Radiant Full-Zip Jacket

Athleta rainier legging - by far my favorite cold weather legging. These have been a staple of mine for three years now and I hope they never stop making them. Lined to provide extra, these leggings provide warmth without feeling bulky or getting too hot. 

Lululemon ear warmer - this version stays in place and provides just the right amount of warmth and coverage.

How to fit all this in your bag

The packing cubes I have are no longer available, but I was able to find similar ones: Tripped Packing Cubes, Well Traveled Packing Cubes, Outdoor Products Packing Cubes, and REI Packing Cubes.

When shopping for packing cubes, make sure they don't compress TOO small. I hate how most compression cubes zip up so thinly that you can barely fit anything in them. All the packing cubes above are a nice size.

Compression packing bags - your answer to bulky sweaters and coats. These are like a vacuum-sealed bag, but without the vacuum.

Put everything in these bags, seal them, and then roll. As you roll, the air is released and that pile of 10 sweaters is now 1/10 the size.

In summary

I hope this helps get you started on your winter packing list for Europe. These are my tried and true cold weather staples that I've brought on countless winter trips. They've really made a difference in keeping me warm and comfortable when I'm constantly outside in cold temperatures.

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Winter Packing List for Europe | Travel Must-Haves for Women

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