Whether you’re pro-snow or pro-sand, we’ve got tips to keep your next winter vacation stress-free. From calm stretches of beach in Mexico to under-the-radar cities in the Northeast, these winter getaways are sure to please.
Keep it simple with a few staple travel clothes. Invest in clothing that layers well and pack neutral-colored pieces, as these will mix and match with everything you bring.
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Keep It Neutral
If you’re craving a sunny vacation to soothe your winter blues, there’s no shortage of warm-weather getaways that can satisfy you. From calm stretches of beach in Mexico to under-the-radar New England towns, these winter escapes are sure to warm your heart—and your travel-wear wardrobe.
Start your vacation wardrobe with neutrals that work for any occasion. “Pick up a few pairs of jeans and wide-leg pants in a neutral color, and you can create multiple looks with them,” says stylist Page. She also recommends getting a few shirts and tees in neutral colors that you can dress up or down with the addition of accessories, depending on your plans. “It’s easier to switch out a shirt than a pair of shoes,” she says.
Consider adding a few lightweight layering pieces to your neutral wardrobe, such as a tailored jacket or blazer in light beige or camel that ties your outfit together and accentuates your complexion. For warmer weather, a lightly textured puffer or faux fur coat is also an easy way to add a pop of personality.
Layering is especially important for cold-weather getaways because most winter destinations are colder than your home. “Avoid anything with a lot of embellishments or loud logos,” says Page. “They won’t stand out in photos.” Instead, look for basics in quality fabrics that will withstand frequent wear and wash, such as cotton shirts from brands like Everlane or Merino wool tees from Icebreaker or Unbound Merino. Brands like Allbirds also offer comfortable sneakers that can be tossed in the washer.
If you want to hit the slopes, a ski trip to a place like Stowe, Vermont, or Traverse City, Michigan, is a great option. For a truly magical snowy getaway, Lake Placid is a can’t-miss destination for families who love the sport. You can enjoy cross-country skiing, sledding, and ice skating at Whiteface Mountain and the Olympic Oval in picturesque Lake Placid, the site of the 1980 Winter Olympics.
For an international destination, Hong Kong is a great choice for North American and European travelers because most don’t need a visa. The Chinese metropolis offers a unique blend of East and West with its mix of traditional Chinese architecture, shopping, restaurants, and nightlife.
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Don’t Overdo It
Whether you’re headed for calm stretches of beach or retreating to a cozy cabin in the mountains, a winter getaway can be an incredible way to recharge. But before you can enjoy your adventure, planning and packing the right wardrobe for your trip is important. That’s why we’ve compiled this handy guide to help you create the perfect travel wardrobe for your vacation, so you can look and feel great from morning until night.
When planning your winter wardrobe for a getaway, choosing versatile pieces that can work from day to night is important. Choosing clothes that can be worn in various ways will make it easier for you to create different outfits and reduce the amount of clothing you need to bring.
To do this, we recommend starting with a capsule wardrobe. A capsule wardrobe is a collection of around 25-30 pieces that can be worn in multiple ways. Choosing neutral and classic clothes will ensure you have the maximum number of outfits possible in your wardrobe.
A good capsule wardrobe will have a few pairs of jeans and pants, several tops, a few pairs of shoes, and some accessories that can all be used in numerous different outfits. You should also consider bringing a few pairs of loungewear and a swimsuit. A swimsuit is essential for any tropical destination, and having two or three bathing suits will help you avoid the need to wash them during your vacation, saving time and reducing the amount of space needed in your luggage. If you’re looking for high-quality pieces to add to your wardrobe, you can check out vibeclothingcompany.com.
Other key items for your winter getaway include toothpaste, a toothbrush (hotels often use generic brands that don’t taste as good as your own), a disposable razor, hair cream or styling gels, and deodorant. Packing toiletries that do double duty, such as a solid shampoo and conditioner, will also save space in your bag.
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Don’t Forget the Accessories
Having the right accessories can make or break your outfit. A nice bag, a great pair of sunglasses, or a cute scarf can elevate your look and make you feel put together even when you’re not wearing much. These are a must-have for any trip.
A nice, comfy pair of sneakers is also a necessity. This is especially true if you plan to do some walking and exploring. You’ll want shoes that you can walk in all day and feel comfortable wearing at night. Having a couple of pairs of shoes that can be worn for casual and dressier occasions is also important.
Lastly, don’t forget to pack a few versatile jewelry pieces that can be dressed up or down. A necklace or bracelet can add some extra flair to a simple outfit, while a pair of stud earrings can be worn with either a formal dress or a pair of jeans.
The key is to think about what you will do on your vacation and how it will affect the clothes you wear. For example, if you’re planning on spending a lot of time outdoors, you’ll want to bring a jacket and sturdy boots. However, a light sweater will probably be enough if you’re only visiting tourist attractions and spending most of your time indoors.
Whether you’re looking for something fun and adventurous or just a relaxing retreat, there are plenty of wonderful winter getaways to choose from. For some warm weather and a tropical escape, consider a visit to Hawaii in January or February. This US state is at its peak warmth during these months, offering a chance to bask in the sun and sip on some Kona coffee. Head to Zambia or South Africa in winter for a more exotic getaway. These countries are in their southern hemisphere summer during this time, making them perfect for a safari, beach, and winery vacation.
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Keep It Simple
The wardrobe you pack for a winter getaway will depend on multiple factors, including your destination and the activities you plan to do. Regardless of the type of trip you’re taking, some basic rules can help keep your suitcase from overflowing and make the packing process less stressful.
According to travel blogger Lean Timms, who bravely travels in cold weather often, it’s important to focus on the basics when planning your vacation outfits. “It’s not about how many puffer jackets you can fit into your suitcase or the number of long pairs of pants,” she explains. “Rather, it’s about maximizing the utility of your clothing and making sure you have warm, practical items that will get the job done.”
One of the easiest ways to ensure your cold-weather wardrobe is simple but still functional is by using layers. This will allow you to take off or add layers depending on your day’s temperature and activity level. Lean suggests choosing a lightweight fabric like wool or silk when selecting sweaters and tops. These fabrics are easy to layer and take up less space in your luggage than cotton or fleece options.
Another way to ensure you’re not overpacking is to use your cold-weather wardrobe as a capsule. Lay out everything you’re thinking of bringing on your bed and start to create outfits. If a piece of clothing only goes with one or two other pieces, it’s probably not worth bringing.
Finally, don’t forget to pack a good pair of snow boots. These are absolutely essential for any winter trip and will help you traverse any terrain or snow. In addition, a pair of comfortable, warm socks is a must to keep your feet toasty and dry. You’ll also want to remember a hat, gloves, and scarf in case the weather turns unexpectedly cold or windy.
