What to Pack for Europe in Winter

Planning a trip to Europe in the winter? While the continent transforms into a wonderland with festive markets, snow-dusted landscapes, and cozy cafes, it also brings chilly temperatures which require smart packing to handle. So, that’s why I put together this post to help out figure out what to pack for Europe in winter.

In this packing guide, I’ll walk you through what to pack for winter in Europe including must-have layers, accessories, and tips to look great while staying cozy. 

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What to Pack for Winter in Europe – Clothing Essentials

The key to staying warm and comfortable is packing versatile, weather-appropriate basics that can be layered to adjust your warmth. 

Thermal Tops and Leggings

The key to keeping comfortable during winter in Europe is to layer up. Thermals are a good base layer to go under sweaters,  or they can be worn on their own when the weather permits. I have a few sets from Amazon and they make all the difference on super chilly days. 

Sweaters

One of the most obvious things to pack for winter in Europe is sweaters. If you can, try to find ones made with natural fibers because they breathe better and will keep you warmer. 

Fleece Lined Leggings or Pants

For some extra warmth, consider packing some fleece-lined leggings and/or pants. I bought these faux leather leggings from Amazon and they have a light fleece lining which provides just enough warmth. 

Skorts / Skirts

I know what you’re thinkings, “Skirts? In winter?” And the answer is, “Yes!” Abercrombie makes the cutest skorts and paired with some fleece-lined tights you’ll be able to switch your looks up without sacrificing your warmth.

Quality Coat

A good quality coat is essential for European winters. It’s your first line of defense against the cold and wind. If you’re headed somewhere where lots of snow can be expected, I would recommend finding a waterproof jacket like this one from North Face or any of these from Columbia. Or, if you’re looking for something a little more chic a wool coat also has a natural ability to repel moisture. 

Waterproof Boots

Winter in Europe can be wet due to rain and snow, so a pair of waterproof boots are essential. Sorel makes some great boots that are both stylish and waterproof. 

Chelsea or Combat Boots

Chelsea boots are another good pair of shoes to bring with you for a Europe winter trip because they are comfortable to walk in but can also elevate an outfit for dressier activities.

Alternatively, you can pack a pair of combat boots. I bring my docs with me on every winter trip and they have yet to let me down. 

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What Accessories to Pack for a Winter in Europe

Gloves or Mittens

Keeping your hands warm is a must while exploring colder destinations so you’ll want to pack some gloves or mittens. If you can, find some touchscreen-friendly gloves or mittens with a removable flap, so you don’t have to take them off everytime you need to use your phone or camera. 

Ear Muffs

Ear Muffs are another great accessory to pack. They keep your ears warm and protect them from the wind on days where a hat might be too much or you don’t want to mess up your hair. These earmuffs are the perfect size and have great ratings. 

Hats

It’s important to keep your head warm, so you’ll want to pack some hats. Beanies and berets don’t take up much space and can be a stylish add to any outfit. I have these fleece-lined beanies from Amazon and these berets. 

Scarves

Scarves not only add a little something something to your outfits but also protect your neck and face from the wind. Plus, you can adjust your level or warmth throughout the day by wearing it in different ways. ASOS always has a great selection of scarves and you can find some designer ones for a great price at Nordstrom Rack. 

Fleece-Lined Tights

Fleece-lined tights are great for wearing under dresses or skirts. I got these ones from Amazon and they kept my legs nice and warm during my Christmas market trip. 

Thermal socks

Don’t let cold feet ruin your day. Thermal socks keep your feet warm and comfortable, especially if you’re walking around for hours in winter boots. 

Sunglasses

Despite the cold temperatures, there can still be plenty of sunshine during winter in europe. Pack a pair of sunglasses to save your eyes while out sightseeing on a sunny day.

Europe Winter Packing List – Toiletries and Skincare

Heavy-duty moisturizer

Protect your skin from those winter winds and pack a thicker moisturizer with a barrier-repair formula. My personal favorite is the Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cream which helps prevent moisture loss and soothe irritated skin.

Lip balm 

There’s nothing cute about dry, cracked lips. Make sure to pack some quality lip balm or even a lip mask to keep your lips in good condition. The Summer Friday’s Lip Balm and Jack Black Intense Therapy Lip Balm are two great options. 

Hand cream

Cold weather is rough on the skin; especially, your hands. Keep a little hand cream in your purse or day bag to keep the dryness at bay. I like Kiehl’s Hand Salve and L’Occitane Hand Cream.

Body Lotion

Dry, heated indoor air can leave your skin feeling rough. A rich lotion will help your skin stay soft and comfortable. Look for something with ingredients like shea butter or cocoa butter like the EOS Moisture Body Lotion.

Sunscreen

Yes, it’s still important to wear sunscreen even during a winter trip to Europe. It’s actually possible to get sunburnt even on a snowy day. Some of my favorite sunscreens are the Unseen Sunscreen from Supergoop, Kiehls Ultra Defence, and Farmacy Green Defense. All wear nicely under makeup and don’t leave a white cast on the skin. 

Travel-size Pack of Tissues 

Cold weather tends to bring about sniffles so it’s a good idea to pack some tissues that you can keep in your bag. 

Hand Sanitizer

Winter is cold and flu season, stay healthy and keep the germs at bay with some hand sanitizer. My favorite is Touchland. They’re not only aesthetic but smell great too!

Europe Winter Travel Packing List – Tech and Electronics

Power Bank

So many beautiful sites, so little battery power. Pack a power bank to keep you snapping and mapping all day long. I personal have this slim battery pack and it charges my 16 Pro Max 1.5 times.

Travel Adapter

A travel adapter is a must if you’re visiting from outside of Europe. I got this universal power adapter off of Amazon to keep me powered up worldwide. 

Camera

If you have a newer iPhone or smartphone, phone cameras are pretty dang good nowadays. However, if you’re a content creator or blogger, it may be worth it to pack a designated camera. I recently added a Sony A6700 to my vlogging kit and I love the functionality of it. I can’t wait to add more lenses to my kit and really push my creativity.

Tablet or E-Reader

Nowadays it’s not guaranteed to have a screen at your seat, therefore, I recommend bringing some a tablet or e-reader like the Kindle Paperwhite to keep you entertained while flying, or on trains in between cities.

Practical Things to Pack

First-aid Kit

Cuts and scrapes happen, as well as blisters, so a little first aid kit with some antiseptic wipes and bandaids is good to have handy.

Travel Umbrella

They’re sometimes a hassle to tote around, but you’ll be thankful to have a travel umbrella on drizzly days.

Foldable Duffle Bag

If you’re a shopper and planning on doing some damage while abroad, a large foldable duffle will give you the extra space you need to pack up all your finds.

Digital Luggage Scale

If you’re a chronic overpacker, like me,  you need a digital luggage scale. That way you can weigh your suitcase before arriving at the airport and avoid having to do the awkward airport repack.

Don’t Forget to Pack These

• Prescriptions and Other Medicine
• Passport
• Hard Copies of Ticket Reservations
• Hard Copies of Your Passport and Important Docs

With the right mix of cozy layers, practical accessories, and winter-ready essentials you’re ready to enjoy your European winter vacation! Whether you’re perusing Christmas markets in Vienna or strolling the snowy streets of Paris, stick to this packing list and you’ll be ready for anything.

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