A Comprehensive Packing Guide for a European Winter Vacation

Preparing to embark on a European vacation this winter? Whether you're returning to Europe or visiting for the first time in the winter, packing can make all the difference in your vacation experience. 

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What should you pack for Europe in the winter? Though temperatures can range across the continent, it’s a good idea to pack thermal layers, a winter coat, waterproof boots, scarves, gloves, and versatile clothing for layering.

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Of course, there are many other items you’ll want to consider bringing along to maximize your experience. We’ll also take a look at what not to bring on a European winter vacation, like too many shoes, expensive jewelry, excessive cash, and high-maintenance gadgets. 

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The following guide is designed to help those preparing for a trip to Europe ensure they have everything needed for a fun trip during the winter.

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General Packing Tips

Before diving into specifics, make note of the length of your trip. Pack enough outfits for the duration of your time in the country, plus two additional days. Refer to this guide’s sections for a detailed packing list covering clothing, electronics, and more.

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The best way to pack for a winter vacation in Europe is to use compression bags to save space, layer clothes, and choose items you can mix and match for varied looks. To prepare for winter weather in Europe, check the forecast, pack layered clothing, and ensure all essentials like a snow-proof coat and waterproof boots are ready.

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The best travel gear for European winter vacations includes a universal adapter, a portable charger, waterproof boots, and compression bags.

Clothing and Accessories

What to Wear

Depending on your destination, you may encounter rainy conditions or sub-zero temperatures. If you’re headed to a country on the colder side, wear thermal base layers, sweaters, a warm coat, and accessories like scarves and hats to stay warm and stylish. 

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Opt for versatile clothing items that mix and match easily. While it may seem a little odd to bring a swimsuit, you may have the opportunity to utilize a hot tub or hot spring during your trip. You won’t want to miss out! Must-have accessories for winter travel in Europe include scarves, hats, gloves, and a compact umbrella to stay warm and dry.

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Here is a comprehensive list of the clothing you’ll need to bring: 

• pajamas
• warm socks
• undergarments
• thermal base layers
• jeans/pants
• long-sleeved shirts
• light & heavy sweaters
• winter coat
• rain jacket & umbrella
• athletic clothing
• jewelry
• swimsuit

Footwear and Accessories

The best shoes for winter travel in Europe are waterproof boots and comfortable walking shoes to handle varying weather and terrains. Don’t forget to bring polarized sunglasses – to help with the glare from snow – as well as warm hats, scarves and gloves. 

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Here is a list of the footwear and accessories to consider packing: 

• winter/waterproof boots
• comfortable walking shoes
• jewelry
• belt, scarf, gloves, hat(s)

Toiletries & Personal Care

Bringing your preferred toiletries ensures you have everything you need during your trip, although most hotels and resorts provide basic items (see below for items not to bring). Protect your skin during a winter vacation in Europe by using hydrating moisturizers and lip balm to combat dry air, and sunscreen for sun exposure while outdoors.

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Remember, whatever liquids you pack, make sure they comply with airline regulations.

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Here is a list of toiletries and personal care items to pack for your trip: 

• toothbrush, toothpaste & floss
• deodorant
• face wash & moisturizer
• hairbrush or comb
• hair accessories
• tweezers & nail clippers
• wet wipes or body wipes
• perfume or cologne
• razor & shaving cream
• makeup & makeup remover
• cotton swabs & cotton balls
• feminine hygiene products
• lip balm
• hand cream & sunscreen
• ear plugs & eye mask
• contacts & contact solution
• pack of tissues

Health & Medications

Ensuring you’re covered health-wise means bringing prescription medications, a travel first-aid kit, and any necessary over-the-counter medications. Preparing a travel-first-aid kit is easy: include band-aids, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and any personal necessities. Purchasing travel insurance covers any unforeseen medical emergencies and is often a good idea. 

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Additionally, check the CDC website for recommended vaccinations based on your destination. Before you travel, think about packing the following items: 

• prescription medications
• travel first-aid kit
• OTC pain medication
• motion sickness tablets
• antacids or digestive enzymes
• cold & flu pills
• vitamins or supplements
• required vaccinations or health forms

Electronics

The best gadgets to take to Europe in the winter are a portable charger, universal power adapter, and e-reader or tablet for entertainment. Yes, you can use your phone in Europe during winter travel. If you’re headed to the French Alps, a eSIM for France will ensure you’re connected throughout your journey.

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If you’re traveling to Europe from another continent, a universal travel adapter is necessary to charge devices due to the different plug types and voltages in Europe.

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Here is a list of electronics you should pack for your trip to Europe in the winter: 

• universal power adapter
• portable battery pack
• GigSky eSIM
• chargers
• earphones or noise-cancelling headphones
• e-reader
• cellphone
• computer or tablet
• camera, lenses & batteries
• GoPro
• straightener or curling iron

Travel Documents

Essential documents like your passport, valid ID, and airline tickets are necessary for travel – and should be no-brainers. There are other travel documents that are helpful to have, like copies of your IDs. Also, make sure your passport isn’t set to expire within six months of your trip; some countries will deny entry if a passport is too close to its expiration date. 

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Here is a list of the documents you should pack for your European winter vacation: 

• passport
• valid ID/driver's license
• copies of passport & IDs
• boarding passes
• travel insurance
• medical documentation
• debit/credit cards & cash
• travel itinerary & confirmation emails

Vacation Essentials

Whether you plan to attend Christmas markets, visit notable churches or spend time in the warmth of an art musem, you’ll want to be prepared. Typical gear that’s good to bring on a European vacation in the winter is a travel thermal mug, reusable shopping bag, compression bags and polarized sunglasses. A backpack is handy for carrying essentials during your daily travels. 

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Here’s a list of vacation essentials to pack for your European adventure: 

• backpack or purse
• travel thermal mug
• water bottle
• portable charging cable
• reusable shopping bag
• handkerchief
• polarized sunglasses
• compression bags
• book or other reading material
• pen
• travel pillow & blanket
• wet bags/ zip-top bags

Winter Sports Items

For many, visiting Europe in the winter promises the opportunity to spend time on the slopes, skiing or snowboarding. In this case, extra gear is required to ensure a fun and safe trip! If you’re wondering how to stay warm while skiing or snowboarding in Europe, make sure to layer thermal wear under sweaters, invest in a high-quality coat, and use accessories like gloves and hats.

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If you’re planning to hit the slopes in the Swiss alps, an eSIM Switzerland will ensure you have service no matter what runs you take!

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Here’s a list of winter sports essentials to pack for your European adventure: 

• skis/snowboard, poles, boots
• gear travel bag
• ski socks
• base layers
• ski pants
• ski jacket
• hat/helmet
• goggles 
• gloves/mittens
• sunscreen, ski face mask
• skiing backpack

What to Avoid Packing for a European Winter Vacation

Now that we’ve covered what to pack on a trip to Europe in the winter, let’s dive into ways you can maximize space in your luggage and ensure you’re only lugging along what you actually need. While people often ask what to pack, they usually don’t ask, “What should I not bring on a European vacation?”

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A few of these items make you a target for theft – like bringing too many valuables. So reduce your risk and leave these items safely at home. Other items are likely provided by the hotel or resort – like hair dryers and basic toiletries – so save yourself space in your bags and skip bringing them along. 

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Here’s a list of what not to pack for a vacation in Europe in the winter: 

• too many shoes
• light or uninsulated clothing
• heavy, over-sized suitcases
• excessive accessories
• high-heeled shoes
• hair dryer
• too many toiletries
• large or bulky books
• beachwear
• too many jeans or pants
• basic toiletries like shampoo, conditioner, body wash & hand soap
• uncomfortable clothing
• expensive jewelry or valuables
• weapons or personal self-defense items
• illegal substances

Special Considerations

In addition to packing all of the above items (and avoiding the most recent list), you may have some special considerations for you and your travel companions. If you’re traveling with kids, include items like kids' entertainment, snacks, and essential baby supplies when packing for your European vacation. If you’re wondering how to physically pack for a European trip with kids, we suggest prioritizing comfort and convenience with easy-to-pack and quick-access items.

Conclusion

Winter in Europe is a fun season that allows you to appreciate the splendor of a new place while also seeing historical sites. Once your trip is planned, it’s time to pack your bags. By following this comprehensive packing guide, you will be well-equipped to enjoy a stress-free and enjoyable European winter vacation. 

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Make sure to download our FREE European Winter Vacation Packing Checklist. It includes all of the items on this list plus a special discount on GigSky eSIM data plans! Download it today and get packing. Then, download the GigSky app and purchase your data plan for your trip. 

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Happy travels!