How do you pack for your winter trip and stay warm without lugging an overstuffed suitcase? Staying toasty and traveling smart is really much easier than you might think. When frigid winter temps call for layering up, packing can be a tricky balancing act. The secret? Smart fabrics, versatile pieces, AND packing strategies! You CAN have coziness and comfort minus the bulk and overpacking. If you’re heading on a winter getaway, these lightweight packing tips are a game-changer!
When it comes to traveling in *COMFORT* and style, make sure you check out this post next!
Stay Warm, Pack Light
Tip #1 | Layering Like a Pro
Cashmere Sweaters
When packing for a cold-weather trip, many of us stick to what seems to make the most sense. Warm chunky sweaters, heavy coats, thick scarves…the heavier the better, right? Actually, no! These bulky pieces not only take up way too much real estate in your suitcase, but they’re often made of sweat-inducing, not-so-breathable fabrics. They’re also impossible to layer over so they just aren’t a practical option for travel.
Instead, you’ll want to pack lightweight layers in high-quality fabrics. Cashmere is breathable and will keep you warm without adding bulk. It’s actually 3 times warmer than wool! You can start with a base layer like a short or long-sleeved tee (and/or wool base layer leggings that can be worn under pants or jeans for extremely cold days!), then add a cashmere sweater over your tee. Cashmere provides excellent insulation. It’s made of fine, lightweight fibers that create tiny air pockets that effectively trap in warmth.
Above, Erin is wearing two of her all-time favorite brands when it comes to cashmere, Aqua by Bloomingdale’s and Quince. Both brands are high-quality AND affordable. In addition to being light and packable, these sweaters are also elegant and versatile so you wear them during the day AND dress them up for dinner or a night out.
Cashmere Accessories
When it comes to warm winter accessories, cashmere is THE way to go. They’ll barely take up any room in your suitcase but they’ll keep you incredibly warm! The hat, scarf, gloves, and snood Erin is wearing here are all from Quince’s cashmere collection. Each is super soft, high-quality, and VERY affordable! The scarf is large enough to double as a wrap, so the versatility is particularly great for travel. A thick bulky scarf will overpower your suitcase, plus they’re difficult to tie and layer. Definitely not practical when it comes to packing lean (and smart!). Chic accessories like these will also elevate your overall look. You can’t underestimate the elegant factor when it comes to cashmere!
Tip #2 | Chic & Compact
Lightweight Puffer
If you are traveling somewhere cold, a puffer coat is a must. It’s going to keep you warm AND it can be layered under a heavier coat (more on that in a minute!). But not just any puffer will do…you want a lightweight, packable puffer jacket. One that you can easily roll and compress into your bag. Puffers with high-quality insulation like down will check all the boxes…lightweight, warm, and not too bulky ✅✅✅ Herno is one of Erin’s favorite brands when it comes to puffers..it is pricey, but worth it. Especially if you live in a cold climate and will get a ton of wear out of a puffer. We’ll link a few options below including some affordable options.
Tip #3 | Warmth Without the Weight
Wrap Coat
Ok, so you’re all set with your base layer, warm cashmere or wool sweaters and accessories, and your packable puffer. Next, what’s the best type of coat to pack? Erin recommends a wrap coat for travel. Most wrap coats are unlined (but often double-faced) so you can easily layer underneath them. This might seem counterintuitive, but remember, if the goal is to pack light, layering is the name of the game!
A wrap coat looks sophisticated too, so it can double as both your day and evening coat depending on what you’re doing on your trip. As we mentioned earlier in the post, you can also layer your packable puffer under your wrap coat to really keep yourself toasty. Just make sure that the length of your puffer coat is slightly shorter than the length of your wrap coat.
PRO TIP: To save room in your suitcase, wear both your puffer and your elegant coat on the plane!
Erin owns 4 wrap coats that all range in price, but her most recent buy (and favorite!) is this one from Quince. Considering it’s 100% cashmere AND high quality, it’s SUCH a great buy. The length is perfect for longer sweaters or puffers. While unlined, it is double-faced for extra warmth. Erin said this wrap coat and the cashmere sweater combo are definitely warm enough on days when it’s 25 degrees or higher (minimal wind chill). So, unless you’re traveling somewhere super cold, a wrap coat will be a great option for you!
How to Say Warm and Pack Light Packing Musts
We wanted to share a few more strategies to keep in mind when packing for your cold-weather trips…
*Again, wear your heaviest coat and boots on the plane. This will save tons of space in your suitcase.
*Use compression packing cubes to maximize every inch of space (and use the expander zipper on your carry-on as a compression tool).
*Stick to a color story. Mix and match your separates and create several outfits with the same pieces.
*To add some chic excitement to your outfits, incorporate statement pieces that are compact like jewelry, handbags, and elegant scarves. This way you can level-up your basics without adding a lot of bulk to your suitcase.
Are you traveling anywhere exciting this winter? Where are you going?? Please share in the comments below!
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