There is no one perfect packing list but this is what I tend to pack when heading to a winter destination. With winter you have to account for bulkier clothing and heavier items and shoes. Trading your flip-flops for winter boots can make a huge difference in what type of bag you need to bring. Also it is important to reference where you are going and the ease of buying things you find necessary in the place you are heading or if there are options to rent winter gear. Are you going on a tour where you will have access to winter gear? Do you need to bring your winter sport gear? Another big factor that plays a role in my packing conditions is my baggage allowance. A great tip is always to verify the baggage sizes and weights allowed for the airline you are flying before packing. Of note, a lot of budget airlines make you pay for carry on sized luggage and only allow a personal item and even some have weight restrictions – the cost of the bags will be significantly more at the airport so it is much better to book ahead of time. It is possible to do carry on only with winter destinations but I would advise for you to prepare to wear your heaviest and bulkier clothing on the plane. You can wear your big jacket, scarf, hat and many layers on the plane to make room for your bag. Once on the plane you can remove layers at your seat to be comfortable for the plane ride! Also I strongly encourage you to check out the TSA carry on policy so you are sure which items can be allowed on a carry on or not (for example crampons/spikes and tripods are allowed on in carry on while hiking poles are not and must be in checked baggage only). If you are bringing ski equipment be prepared to pay the sports check for both ways on your flight.
Winter specific vacation
- Snow Pants
- Waterproof/windbreaker pants
- Winter/ski gloves
- Ski goggles
- Heated toe/hand warmers
- Snowshoes
- Crampons
- Hiking Poles
- Hats
- Gloves
- Scarves/neck wraps
- Base layer- merino wool is great
- Winter coat
Clothing
- Underwear
- Undershirts/bras
- Socks/stockings
- Shirts
- Pants/Jeans/leggings
- Dress/skirt (can wear over leggings)
- Swimsuit/cover-up- if going to be a hot tub or indoor heated pool or hot springs
- Hat
- Gloves
- Scarf
- Belt
- PJs/sleepwear
- Formalwear if needed (dress/suit/tie)
- Collapsible day bag or tote
- Laundry bag
Shoes
- Causal/walking shoes
- Hiking/athletic shoes
- Flip-flops/sandals (may still want to consider if hot springs/hot tubs)
- Dress shoes/Heels
Toiletries
- Toothbrush
- Toothpaste
- Floss
- Deodorant
- Hair Brush/Comb
- Sunscreen
- Shampoo/Conditioner
- Body lotion
- Shaving supplies/razor
- Contact lens/solution
- Feminine hygiene products
- Nail clippers/nail file
- Tweezers
- Hand sanitizer
- Band-Aids/bandages/moleskin
- Make up/make up remover
- First aid kit
Health and Medications
- Any prescription medications
- Pain relievers (acetaminophen, ibuprofen)
- Vitamins
- Motion sickness prevention medication
- Anti-diarrheal medication
- Electrolyte packets
- Anti acid medications
- Birth Control
- First Aid Medications/lotion
- Tissues
- Lip balm
- Sunscreen
- Insect Repellant
- List of medications
Carry- On Checklist
- Cell phone
- Laptop/tablet
- Electronic chargers
- International adapter
- Wallet (money/credit cards/ID)
- Passport
- Empty water bottle
- Headphones/ear buds
- Snacks
- Pen and Paper
- Sleep accessories (travel pillow/blanket/eye mask/earplugs)
- Hand sanitizer
- Change of clothes
- Medications
- Camera
- Copies of credit cards/insurance cards/passport/IDs
- Book or E-books.
- Itinerary and lodging address
Hiking specific
- Hiking shoes
- Quick dry clothing in layers
- Raincoat
- Waterproof pants
- Hiking poles (must be checked)
- Crampons (if winter)
- Hat
- Gloves
- Camel-back or other water carry backpack
- First Aid Kit
- Headlamp or torch
- Snacks
- Charging bank
