There's a reason why more people travel in warm weather. Cracking the code to successful winter travel is no easy task. There are all sorts of weather variables (from sub-zero temperatures to spontaneous blizzards) that can affect travel plans, whether they're flights or road trips. There's also the question of how to pack: you put just one winter coat in your suitcase and you feel like you've already used up all your space. Plus, you might find yourself catching a little cold along the way.
But traveling in winter has undeniable advantages, such as ski adventures, shoulder season discountsfewer people and better availability of the PTO, not to mention the pure beauty such snowy destinations offer. Wanderlust tends to peak this time of year, and exploring a new place is one of the best ways to overcome those pesky winter blues.
To help you plan the perfect cold-weather getaway, we reached out to many winter travelers, from professional snowboarders to outdoor photographers, to get their expert advice on how to cut down on volume and travel smarter this season. So whether you're heading out in the middle of February or embarking on a freezing vacation, here are some winter travel tips to stay warm and healthy while you're on the move.
“Tea or hot water is a simple way to either warm you from the inside out by drinking it, or give your body a mini heater if you hold it in your hands. One of my favorite tips for winter camping is to complete a Nalgene put a hot water bottle and put it in my sleeping bag with me while I sleep. Pairing this with a good insulated sleeping bag, and even a blanket or heating pad if I'm car camping, has allowed me to enjoy sleeping outside during the winter months, rather than just putting up with it.
I spend a lot of time on the road in the winter for work, and I always have bare minimum in my truck in case there is a highway closure or something happens and I might have to be gone for a while. From around October to May you won't catch me without a little boiling jet for making tea or soup, a large down jacket, a sleeping bag and sleeping pad, hand warmers and a lamp frontal. It gives me confidence knowing that everything would be okay if something were to happen, which then allows me to spend more time outside. –Jesse Gilbertartist and adventurer
“I just finished a 100-day tour across Canada. It was the trickiest packing I've ever had to do: imagine trying to pack for rain and moderate temperatures in November in Vancouver, cold in December in Calgary, Edmonton and Winnipeg. (which has disappeared due to climate change), then snow in January in Montreal and Ottawa. Additionally, I had to bring posters, tripods, cameras and ring lights. So the night before I left, when I realized that there was nothing from the filming equipment that would fit, I went to Golf town and bought a golf travel bag to hold all the equipment and some clothes. The looks I received in Canadian airports in the winter were hilarious. Two checked bags, one carry-on bag, one personal item AND one oversized golf travel bag. I must have looked as ridiculous as I felt.
Staying healthy on the road can be a challenge. Luckily, I had enough bags to be able to carry my vitamins and supplements, but for those traveling lighter, I suggest a pill case. It's tedious to organize it but it's worth it. Some other tips are to take a disinfectant spray and spray it around the room. Also, do a quick search for healthy restaurants in town: eating healthy can be a big challenge, but eating like crap will make you feel like crap! Finally, exercise. Take the stairs instead of the elevator. If you don't have access to a gym in town, use the one at the hotel. Stay active and healthy so your work and travels don't get derailed. –Brock McGillisLGBTQ+ activist and former Ontario Hockey League goaltender
“I like my Dakine snowboard bag. It's a long wheeled bag that allows me to fit a ton of stuff in it, including snowboards, boots, bindings, and goggles. It's big but it keeps all my stuff in one place. The key to dressing warm is layering, which is why I wear a micro puff that goes under my snowboard jacket.
I would say that keeping my health under control is definitely the most difficult issue. I haven't been home since November 13th, so it's important to stick to a healthy routine. I stay super hydrated and also take vitamin C packets and multivitamins. When I start to see something happening, I try to prevent it with throat sprays, a vitamin C supplement and Usana supplements. » –red gerardAmerican Olympic snowboarder and 2018 Slopestyle gold medalist
“Cold weather clothing can be quite bulky. I try to keep in mind that I usually wear the same outfits over and over again, especially on winter adventures. Merino wool base layers like Icebreaker never smell bad, so I only pack one pair to save space. Sweaters tend not to get dirty either, so I often repeat my outfits in nature. I also like to consider the practicality of a garment rather than its cuteness. Staying warm and dry is more important to me when considering storage space. –Kyana Sue Powersoutdoor adventure and lifestyle photographer
“We usually like to bundle up in our warmest clothes for traveling in winter, but since the temperature can fluctuate a lot depending on the environment, we usually bring different layers and different types of clothing. Typically, Logan carries a light Lululemon Jogger and Eva will wear Lululemon sweatpants for the trip, as well as two to three layers over their upper bodies depending on whether the car or plane is cold. Staying warm is definitely the key to staying healthy, which is why we try our best to stay away from the cold. Ironic for skaters! –Eva Pate and Logan goodbye, Team USA ice dancers
“With spring break coming up, many people are prepare to travel by plane with winter sports equipment for the first time. Make sure you have a large bag for your ski and snowboard gear with compartments and wheels. I recommend taking a good set of base layers, a mid layer and a light or medium jacket, a helmet, goggles with interchangeable lenses, a hat and heated gloves Or Mittens. I also highly recommend bringing extra socks for all activities, and don't forget a swimsuit as most places in winter have hot tubs, perfect after a long day on the hill or outside .
Let's say you'll check two bags if you plan to travel with all your gear and clothes. Pro tip: Pack your personalized ski or snowboard boots in your carry-on bag. They are not easy to replace. Another option that allows you to save space in your luggage during your trip is to rent equipment when you arrive at your destination. This way, you don't have to worry about paying extra or lugging heavy bags to the airport or Uber.
When it comes to preparing for possible health jokers, make sure you have all medications with you and pack your luggage. Emergen-C to strengthen your immune system in the presence of other tourists. Anti-inflammatories and painkillers are also helpful after playing hard in the mountains. Especially if you're not a seasoned winter sports pro, your body will be sore. Pack a Ace envelope, moleskin and Arnica gel for small bangs, bruises and blisters. Finally, if you are traveling from low altitude to high altitude, be sure to hydrate as soon as you arrive there. Acli-Mate to your water as needed and take ibuprofen in the morning and evening. –Jonas Drescherformer member of the US ski team and manager of Christy Sports