Winter holiday packing guide

With cold weather and the chance of snow to contend with, a winter holiday often means more luggage than any time of year. From cosy wool jumpers to warm hats and scarves, there's plenty to think about when planning your winter holiday outfits, whether you're heading to a cosy cabin or enjoying a festive break in the city.

To make packing that little bit easier, we've brought together the winter holiday clothes and accessories worth taking, along with practical tips to help you save space and travel in comfort and style.

What to pack for a winter holiday

What winter holiday clothes you pack will depend on your destination and plans, but a few well-chosen clothes, accessories and essentials will make any winter holiday more comfortable.

Winter holiday clothes to pack (and layer)

The secret to winter holiday outfits is to pack smart, layer up and savour the cosy feeling. These are the clothes that will see you comfortably through frosty days and evenings out:

To stay warm throughout the day, take a simple "one, two, three" approach to your winter holiday clothes. Start with insulating base layers like a thermal long-sleeved top or leggings that feel soft and comfortable against your skin. Next, add a cosy middle layer – perhaps a luxuriously warm wool jumper, a soft merino dress or an easy fleece for a frosty walk. Number three is outerwear – your reliable winter coat that looks stylish and keeps you snug no matter how much the frost bites.

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Accessories to pack in your case

A few thoughtful accessories add warmth, colour and personality to winter holiday outfits – without taking up too much suitcase space. These practical favourites will work hard throughout your holiday:

A hat, scarf and pair of gloves help protect you from the cold while completing your outerwear look. Gloves with touchscreen fingertips are especially useful when checking maps, replying to messages or taking photographs when you're out and about. Don't forget your sunglasses either, as low winter sunshine and the glare from snow can be surprisingly bright.

A crossbody bag is another essential in winter travel outfits, allowing you to move around hands-free while keeping everything you need safely stored. Look for a design made from premium genuine leather, with useful pockets and secure zips so everything is secure, organised and easy to reach.

Because statement jewellery can transform even the simplest winter travel outfits, a small jewellery pouch with your favourite pieces is a must-have in your holiday suitcase. Perfect for dressing up an outfit for dinner or an evening at a show, a striking necklace or pair of earrings adds a special finishing touch without taking up valuable packing space.

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Must-take winter essentials

A few thoughtful essentials can make all the difference on frosty sightseeing days, winter walks and festive evenings away.

Whether you're out in the countryside or dashing between shops, hand warmers will keep the cold at bay and prevent your fingers from becoming too chilly. An umbrella is a handy addition too – because we never quite know what the skies will do. Nourishing toiletries, meanwhile, will help prevent your skin from becoming dry and chapped – cold air and indoor heating can leave skin feeling dry in moments.

And because winter holidays are as much about cosying by the fire as they are about exploring the outdoors, a good book or two is essential for those evenings indoors. There's no lovelier way to spend a relaxed evening – preferably with a hot chocolate close at hand.

Your winter airport outfit: how to travel in comfort and style

The best winter travel outfits keep you comfortable throughout the journey while helping you feel put together when you arrive. This is where thoughtful layering really comes into its own. You can remove a cardigan or cosy knit in a warm train carriage or departure lounge, then add it back when you step out into the cold and the snow starts to settle.

Build the rest of your outfit around breathable pieces that move with you – think stretch trousers, soft jersey tops and lightweight cardigans you can pop in your bag if you get too warm. Crease-resistant fabrics are especially useful too, helping you look and feel fresh after a long journey.

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How to pack your winter holiday clothes

Pack thoughtfully, and everything about your holiday feels that little bit easier. Finding what you need becomes effortless, your clothes arrive looking fresher, and you've got a little room left for a special purchase or two while you're away.

For effective packing, try rolling softer pieces such as jersey separates and nightwear. This helps you minimise creasing and make the most of every corner of your suitcase. For heavier or structured pieces like jeans and blazers, fold along the edges and place them on top of your rolled items.

Compression packing cubes will also help you fit more into your suitcase while staying organised. Use them to group outfits or different types of clothing, and reserve one for worn laundry. When you return home, you can simply empty its contents into the washing machine.

Discover your winter holiday clothes at David Nieper

Wherever your winter holiday takes you, the right pieces will keep you warm, comfortable and stylish. Whether you're looking for winter city break outfits or cosy pieces for time outdoors, discover your winter holiday wardrobe in our new collection. Think soft separates, warm wool knitwear and stylish coats, all designed to make cold-weather dressing feel effortless.

Browse our new collection or order your complimentary copy of our catalogue to discover the styles.

DISCOVER NOW

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Winter holiday packing guide