It’s tough for most people to feel fashionable in the deepest point of winter when the primary goal becomes staying warm, dry and comfortable — especially during travel. Once you bundle up in your waterproof boots and thick down coat, you might feel like some combination of Bigfoot and the Michelin Man.
Fortunately, winter outerwear designers continually search for ways to combine fashion and function to give you confidence during the coldest months, whether you need to travel for business or get out on the ski or hiking trail. In either case, you can look your best while braving the elements.
Here are four winter wardrobe travel essentials for women and men that you shouldn’t leave home without.
1. A Cozy, Comfortable and Versatile Coat
The perfect coat is an essential part of any winter travel wardrobe. Finding the right one for your needs depends on a few factors. For instance, adventure travelers might consider the Patagonia Nano Puff series, recommends The Misguided Millennial. This comfortable coat will keep you warm out in the snow, and it won’t take up much space in your baggage since it compresses easily. If you prefer a more cosmopolitan look, you can’t go wrong with a classic wool pea coat. While it takes up a little more space, it offers you the most fashionable option that is still durable and cozy.
2. Warm Denim Jeans
Denim jeans are considered fashionable all around the world. You can wear them to the museum as easily as you can wear them out for a winter horseback ride. Well-fitted dark wash jeans from sellers like Gap are especially practical since you can dress them up with a nice blouse or throw on a sweatshirt or sweater for outdoor activities. Even better, they take up less space since you only need a pair or two to rotate since you can re-wear them easily, skipping a wash day now and then.
3. A Dress, Skirt or Dress Pants
Even adventure travelers need to go out for dinner or a pub to enjoy the local cuisine and company. You’re sure to enjoy sprucing up for a night out or a fun luncheon. Depending on your style preferences, make sure to pack something casual but a step or two up from jeans. Consider cozy winter dress styles like sweatshirt hoodies, turtleneck knits, knitted crewnecks and cowl necks. Brands like Athleta and Land’s End offer these styles and more to keep you cozy and sharp while enjoying some social time when traveling. Men might pack a pair of dress pants, or they can even wear their dark jeans and a nice dress shirt or sweater for a night out with friends or business associates.
4. Stylish Boots That Are Ready for Action
If you are an adventure traveler, boots are as important as a good coat, so you need to choose, buy and pack wisely. You probably want to avoid high-fashion boots that do no good out in the snow and mud. Even if you don’t have any nature excursions planned, the streets get snowy and icy, and you need good support and traction in boots that are waterproof and durable. Timberland boots fit the bill, offering a wide variety of styles and colors that suit women and men.
Look Great No Matter Where You Travel This Year
Whether you plan a weekend camping trip, a getaway to a national park or a vacation to chilly city, you can stay warm and look great with the right style and packing strategy. Boots, a coat, jeans and a nice out-on-the-town outfit are all essential for having a great vacation that lets you feel free, comfortable, warm and dry.
