5 Packing Tips to Prepare You for Winter Adventures

Winter is here, and if you are taking a trip to a snowy area this season, it will pay to pack strategically. Your comfort level can make or break a trip to a cold climate, especially when you have a few outdoor winter adventures planned.

Here are a few must-haves to bring along:

1. Choosing a Winter Coat

A warm coat is non-negotiable for all your winter adventures, especially to a cold destination. But all winter coats are not created equal, so be sure to choose one that suits the specific needs of your destination and your planned adventures. First, consider what exactly you will be doing on your trip. 

Will you be skiing and want to look good on the slopes? A waterproof coat that’s well insulated, like a dependable down puffer jacket, is ideal for a full day of protection against the elements. Opt for a hooded style for added protection. Conversely, if most of your time will be spent indoors, with a coat only necessary to keep warm in between car rides from one destination to another, then a weatherproof hooded coat is less vital. Instead, a thinner packable down coat or wool coat could be sufficient. 

For extra comfort in either scenario, a long jacket can provide more warmth than the typical hip-length styles. Skip any printed or colorful styles in favor of a solid-colored coat in a neutral hue. This way, it will easily transition from day to night and suit a wider range of dress codes. 

2. Must-Have Cold-Weather Accessories

In addition to a warm coat for all your winter adventures, you’ll also want to be prepared with cold-weather accessories like a hat, gloves and scarf. Choose a hat and scarf in a complementary or matching color to your coat and made with a material that’s soft and warm like wool or cashmere. 

When choosing a pair of gloves, it’s important to consider what activities you’ll be doing while wearing them. For instance, skiing or sledding will require waterproof gloves, while city sightseeing will require something thinner for mobility and comfort. You’ll also want gloves that feature a touch screen compatible fingertip design, so you can use your smartphone without removing your gloves.

3. Investing in Sun Protection

Just because it’s cold outside doesn’t mean you still can’t get a sunburn. Winter sunlight can cause harsh effects on the skin, especially in snowy areas where that beautiful blanket of snow acts as a giant reflector of the sun’s harsh rays. 

With that in mind, protect your skin with a daily application of sun protection when you’ll be outside for extended periods of time. This is especially important if you’re snowboarding, skiing or enjoying other winter outdoor activities in a snowy area at a high elevation, where the sun’s rays are even stronger.

Additionally, you’ll want to protect your eyes from the sun’s harsh glare off the snow by bringing along sunglasses with polarized lenses. And if you’re participating in any winter sports, bring along a sturdy pair of protective goggles to prevent painful snow blindness, a serious eye condition also known as photokeratitis.

Get a pair of beautiful polarized sunglasses from Eagle Eyes Sports Collection to protect your eyes from UV light. The pink mirrored lenses of these gorgeous sport sunglasses are TriLenium® 7 Polarized. These top-notch sunglasses are made using original NASA optic technology to block scattered blue light, reduce glare, enhance your vision while blocking 99.9% of harmful UV radiation. Best of all, these sunglasses feature 2x Scratch-Guard™, are oleophobic (smudge-proof) and have a hydrophobic (water-repellent) coating!

4. Finding the Right Footwear

Warm footwear is crucial for your comfort in cold weather, so consider wearing boots that cover your ankles for maximum protection from the elements. Additionally, look for insulated boots designed for winter wear to keep your feet warm and dry in the snow and slush. But you’ll want to avoid boots with a smooth sole and instead opt for something with a sturdy tread to provide more traction on slippery, snow-covered or icy surfaces during your winter adventures. 

5. Keeping Your Skin Hydrated

While your wardrobe should be a top priority when preparing for a trip to a cold destination, don’t forget to bring hydrating toiletries. Frigid temperatures come when the humidity drops, and when combined with indoor heating, this can leave your skin feeling parched. Combat dry skin by packing all your favorite hydrating skincare essentials. Must-have items include body cream, facial moisturizer, a rich hand cream, cuticle oil and your favorite lip balm. 

Stay Warm and Cozy Head to Toe

Staying warm and cozy head to toe will make it that much easier to stay in the moment and enjoy your winter adventures. With a warm coat, weatherproof boots, cozy accessories, sun protection and an arsenal of hydrating skincare products, you’ll be well-prepared for whatever Mother Nature throws your way. Adding these must-haves to your winter wardrobe will allow you to make the most of your winter adventures.