While vacations sound super exciting and fun, the thought of packing for them is scary!
Traveling can be quite draining, and the last thing you need amidst all the travel chaos is to worry about carrying massive luggage with you wherever you go. For this reason, many people are shifting towards minimalist packing.
Packing minimally for any trip is a challenge, but packing minimally for a winter trip seems next to impossible. Between coats, scarves, sweaters, and boots, packing for winter trips is always more perplexing than for summer getaways.
However, you can still pack minimally for the winter holidays while ensuring that you have everything that you need. It is all about having the right seasonal travel clothes and using a few smart packing tips to fit your heaviest jacket into your suitcase.
Besides, it’s also important to have a medium-sized compact suitcase which is the perfect size for minimalist travel. It’s large enough to fit all of your essentials, but not so large that it becomes a burden to carry. And because it’s compact, it’s easy to store in small spaces. Plus, a medium-sized suitcase is a perfect size for carry-on luggage, so you can avoid checked baggage fees. When packing for a trip, be sure to pack only what you need. Bring items that are versatile and can be used for multiple purposes. And don’t forget to leave some empty space in your suitcase so you can bring home souvenirs.
The following are eight tried and tested minimalist packing tips for an ultimate winter vacation.
1- Pack one coat
Yes, it is tempting to pack every coat you have in your wardrobe, but coats are heavy and take up a lot of space. Therefore, it is best to carry just one coat in your luggage. Opt for a classic and versatile one that guarantees good mixing and matching with your other outfits.
We recommend packing a coat with many pockets as it allows you to put some items in the coat while packing, thereby reducing the weight of your luggage.
Also, you should check the weather forecast before packing for the trip. If you are heading somewhere super cold, keep a big puffy jacket because it guarantees warmth and comfort.
If you are headed somewhere with pleasant temperatures, you can carry a light leather jacket with you. For men, a suede leather jacket would be perfect for mild winter. On the other hand, a classic women leather jacket or a Harrington coat will be perfect for ladies in moderately cold weather.
2- Pack only one scarf, hat, and pair of gloves
Accessories are an essential part of any ensemble. Too many accessories, however, defeat the purpose behind minimalism. Therefore, it is crucial to pack just the essentials, which means packing only one scarf, one hat, and one pair of gloves.
Choose the accessories, depending upon the use. We suggest opting for something neutral-toned in warm fabrics such as wool, fur, or cashmere for your scarf. Neutral tones pair beautifully with just about everything, so you will not have to worry about your scarf not complementing your outfit.
When it comes to a choice of hat, beanies are ideal for cold weather. Since they are soft and squishable, you can easily fold them and stash them in your luggage corner. Also, beanies are super fashionable.
For gloves, pack a neutral-toned pair. Black and beige promise the most use.
3- Pack one pair of boots
Boots are heavy, and they occupy a lot of space. We recommend packing only one pair that you can wear on the entire trip. They are warm, and they come with excellent foot support, and, let’s not forget, boots are super chic and fashionable.
Boots come in an array of styles. Ankle boots are a universal favorite. Classic boots also work great, especially if you are going to be venturing into rough terrain.
4- Wear your bulkiest clothes at the airport
When Joey wore all of Chandler’s clothes, he possibly gave us the best packing hack ever. Wearing your bulkiest clothes at the airport is the smartest way to maximize luggage space. Why worry about not having enough room in your luggage if you are wearing the most space-occupying item?
So put on your heaviest jacket, your thickest sweater, and your chunkiest boots, and get ready to board your flight.
“Could I be wearing any more clothes?”
5- Layer your clothes
Layering is the best way to protect you from the cold. Layering also comes with a bonus: it is super fashionable too.
When packing minimally, you have to be careful with your choice of clothes. It is crucial to pick out pieces that are light and versatile to guarantee multiple uses.
If something is super unique and you are expected only to wear it once, do not pack it. If you are not very good when it comes to layering, then here is a basic idea:
Start with a tank top and a pair of jeans. Layer a long-sleeved tee and a lightweight sweater on top. Complete the look with an overcoat and your favorite pair of boots. Warm, comfortable, and super chic, layering is your savior if you are looking to travel like a wanderlust.
6- Roll your clothes
Seek inspiration from the minimalist queen Marie Kondo and optimize the packing space by rolling your clothes in the shape of a compact burrito or folding them into squares like Kondo. Not only will they stack well, but they will also stay more organized.
7- Pack travel-size everyday essentials
Everyday essentials such as personal hygiene items are heavy and can take up a lot of space. Therefore, we encourage you to pack them into travel size bottles or not pack them at all because you can purchase them when you reach your destination. Hotels and resorts also provide these items.
However, if you’re still carrying them, make sure to choose the travel size of these products. Be it your toothpaste, shampoo, or shower gel; everything is readily available in a travel size pack.
8- Stuff your socks and gloves in your shoes
The best way to pack socks is by stuffing them in your shoes. Not only does this make more space available for other items, but it also prevents your shoes from getting disfigured.
Shoes can lose their shape when placed under a heavy load. Stuff your socks and gloves inside them, and you would never have to worry about them getting ruined.
- Parting thoughts
Packing for a winter vacation might even seem tougher than a 1000 piece puzzle, but with enough practice, any rookie can become a pro at packing.
One last tip before we part ways: Regardless of where you are going, always pack some dry sheets. They keep your clothes smelling fresh like they have just come out of the dryer.
Try these minimalist tips when packing for your next winter wonderland escape and tell us in the comments below how lighter your luggage felt.
