How to ‘survive’ travelling Europe in winter

While many people head to the ski-regions in winter, travelling the cities does have its charm. There are fewer tourists around popular sights and you can buy many local souvenirs, as well as delicious drinks at the Christmas markets. But often a cup of hot punch is not enough to keep one warm and many people leave early because they are cold.

In this blog post I am sharing what I do to keep warm to get the most out of my winter vacation.

Staroměstské náměstí – The Old Town Square in Prague with its lovely Christmas market

First Layer:

For the first layer I like to wear tights and a t-shirt. Tuck the top into the tights to keep your belly warm. Merino Underwear would be the best option, but I don’t expect anybody to invest 150 Euros in a pair of underwear they are going to wear twice a year at best.

If you are brave enough to wear a skirt, it is best to layer more pairs of tights instead of just one. I choose thin, beige ones and wear them with black ones on top.

Second Layer:

Now it’s time for pants and your second Top. Choose a pair of pants that covers your ankles and doesn’t have holes – you’ll thank me later! High waisted jeans help keep your lower back warm and prevent muscle tension.

I love wearing my black woollen pullover since it is chic and also extremely comfortable. Remember – we still have some layers to go, so stick to thin fabrics.

Layering pullovers is always a good idea!

Third layer:

Opt for a cozy cardigan or another Pullover. Put warm Socks on (thin, woollen ones would be best) and get your boots out. Make sure they are waterproof and have a good cushion. I always carry band aids with me, in case I get blisters. Even for shoes I have worn many times – better safe than sorry, right?

Outer Layer:

Now it’s time for the last step: putting on your jacket and accessorizing. Most Europeans either wear down jackets or thick, woollen coats. Parkas have become very popular this decade. Whatever jacket you may choose, make sure it has a quilted lining or fake fur inside to keep you warm.

Accessories:

Bring a hat or headband to protect your ears from the cold winter wind. Match your gloves with your headdress to look put-together and sophisticated.

Bring some pocket warmers with you to stuff into your gloves, shoes, pockets… or wherever you feel cold.

I like to use a sturdy leather handbag I can put down on the floor without it getting too wet from the snow. Don’t forget to bring tissue papers and some oily cream for your lips, cheeks and hands.

The old town of Warsaw with typically European buildings

Conclusion:

Use as many layers as you need and feel comfortable in. The best materials are wool, silk and high-quality synthetic fibers. For cotton shirts I like to use good armpit-pads that absorb any sweat. Make sure to pack waterproof shoes for your vacation. I also like to bring transparent rain ponchos, since they only take up little space.

Thank you so much for reading!

I hope I could give you some good tips to make your next winter vacation more comfortable for you. Let me know about your hacks for staying warm in the comment section below! 🙂