Cold-Weather Packing: What I Got Right (and Totally Wrong!)
On my first trip to the Arctic, I scoured high and low for articles on how to pack, what to bring, and what mattered. I was determined to be prepared for the freezing temperatures, but despite all my research, I still made a few mistakes—like bringing three sweaters when I only wore one. 🙃
After a few trips to chilly destinations, I’ve learned a thing or two about what actually works (and what just wastes precious luggage space). So, here’s my guide to packing smart for cold-weather adventures—without the regrets!
What I Got Right: Packing for Warmth, Not Just Bulk
Cold-weather gear takes up space, so the key is layers over bulk. Additionally, wool is king, especially for base layers and socks. Not only is wool incredibly warm, it wicks moisture and stays fresh longer due to its antimicrobial qualities.
Be sure to check the tag for actual wool content - a lot of items (especially cheap ones) say they are “wool,” but only contain a minimal percentage. Real wool items should be over 80% wool and may cost more, but they save you money because they last much longer and can be worn multiple times, meaning you only need three pairs of socks versus 8.
The MVPs of my packing list?
✔️ A quality base layer – Thermal leggings and a moisture-wicking top keep you warm without the bulk.
✔️ One solid sweater – Turns out, you don’t need three. 😅
✔️ A packable puffer jacket – Warm, lightweight, and squishes down like a dream.
✔️ Waterproof outerwear – Because staying dry = staying warm.
✔️ Wool socks & gloves – Frozen toes are never in style.
✔️ Wearing my boots and coat on the plane – Bulky snow boots and a down coat take up way too much space in a suitcase, so I wore them instead. Plus they’ll keep you warm on the plane. You can remove your boots and slip into slides once you’re settled in, meaning you only have to wear them in the airport. Ask me about the time I had to sprint through Oslo Airport at 2 AM in knee-high snow boots and a full-length down coat… an experience, to say the least! 😂
What I Overpacked: The Plus-Size Gear Dilemma (and My Sweater Anxiety!)
One of my biggest packing struggles? Worrying that the provided cold-weather gear wouldn’t fit me. Many of the excursions and activities I booked promised to provide insulated suits, parkas, and boots—but as a plus-size traveler, I wasn’t sure if that meant me. Would they actually have my size, or would I be stuck in the cold?
So, I brought my own backup gear… including extra sweaters I didn’t need, 2 pairs of snowpants, and extra hats, scarves and gloves. I was also worried that I’d need extra sweaters because they’d get dirty over the trip. Reality check: since my sweaters were always my top layer indoors, they stayed clean for all 10 days! I ended up wearing just one favorite sweater the whole time. One pair of snowpants was more than enough, and I only needed one pair of gloves (well, mittens for me) and one hat and one scarf.
The other reality? Most of the tour operators were actually plus-size accommodating! I was happy to have one set of my own snowpants for solo walking and tours that didn’t provide cold-weather gear, but otherwise, the gear provided would have fit me just fine. Lesson learned: check with your tour company in advance, but don’t assume you need to bring everything yourself.
(Need help finding plus-size cold-weather gear? Or just wondering what actually works for Arctic travel? Check out my travel gear recommendation page for clothes (plus-size and not!) and packing essentials to help you on your adventure! 🧳❄️)
What I Regret: Overpacking (and Underplanning for Souvenirs!)
Let’s talk mistakes—because I’ve made them!
🚫 Bringing too many bulky items – Three sweaters? Overkill. I only wore my favorite one. Lesson learned: stick to one good sweater, and layer smart.
🚫 Not leaving any room for souvenirs – My biggest regret! I found the most amazing local crafts, but my suitcase was already bursting. Next time? I’m packing a foldable duffel for the trip home. 🚫 Not packing slip in or comfy shoes for hotel and plane – Because I overpacked the clothes, I ran out of room and didn’t think I needed anything other than boots for shoes. Major oversight. Wandering around Tromso looking for slippers or reasonably priced shoes just to walk around the hotel at night or go to breakfast in the morning took up time, plus they would have been a godsend on the plane vs. wearing my boots for 12 hour flights.
🚫 Not packing for jet lag and sleep struggles – Travel is exhausting, but I didn’t realize how much until I watched people in my group miss out on activities—not because they were too tired, but because they just couldn’t sleep. No sleep = miserable days. Now, I never forget:
A sleep mask & earplugs – Hotel noises can be surprisingly disruptive.
Melatonin or travel-friendly sleep aids – Lifesavers when adjusting to a new time zone. Pro-tip - check in with a doctor in case a prescription solution makes sense.
A cozy travel pillow – Because sleeping on a plane shouldn’t be a nightmare.
Pro Packing Tips for Your Next Cold-Weather Trip:
✅ Pack strategically – Layers, not bulk!
✅ Wear your heaviest items on the plane – Boots and coats don’t belong in your suitcase.
✅ Leave space for souvenirs – Bring a packable bag or plan to ship goodies home.
✅ Use compression bags or packing cubes – They’re a game-changer for bulky gear!
✅ Check with your tour company about gear sizes – Many provide plus-size-friendly options!
✅ Plan for sleep & jet lag – Because no one wants to spend their dream trip wide awake at 3 AM, wishing for sleep.
The next time I pack for a chilly adventure, I’ll ditch the extra clothes and make room for souvenirs—because memories are way better than an overstuffed bag. 😉
What’s your biggest cold-weather packing fail? Drop a comment—I’d love to hear your stories! ❄️
