A Note on Style

Packing A Carry-On For A Week In Cold Weather

Packing A Carry-On For A Week In Cold Weather

WHAT TO PACK…
(with updated links)

I have to admit, even I’m surprised I was able to travel with just a carry-on bag for a week to Europe, especially needing warm clothing, lots of layers and rain gear. But, I did it last week and it worked out fine. The key is being extremely practical and making sure each piece has the versatility to be worn at least a couple of different ways.

There’s actually plenty here to work with, and mixing the various layers for day or nighttime activity is easy. One caveat…this was a casual trip to Switzerland, visiting my son who is studying in Lugano. I didn’t need anything too dressy. The days were spent exploring the city and trekking in the hills. Comfort, warmth and waterproof are elements that had top priority. When I wanted to feel a bit more dressed for dinner, I pulled an all black look together or black pants with a pretty blouse. Here’s my thought process on what I packed:

Outerwear: I know it might look extreme to have this many options, but like I said, comfort is key. A long puffer coat is necessary with temps dipping into the 30s and 40s at night. This is the bulkiest item, so I carried it on the plane with me. The other three pieces – a vest, lightweight shell and short puffer –  were compressed and tucked into the corners of my suitcase. Ultimately, I didnt need the shell because it was too cold, but the short puffer was good for hiking.

Long Puffer Coats

Short Puffer Coats

Vests and Lighter Weight Shells

Shoes: I like to have a few options to rotate in case my feet get tired from one pair. Sturdy boots and sneakers for all day touring are a must particularly with cobblestone streets. A loafer of some sort is a nice switch for dinner. Additionally, I like to tuck a pair of soft, slipper type shoes in my bag for quick trips within the hotel to the lobby or breakfast. I wear my bulkiest shoes on the flight to allow for plenty of space in the suitcase. For this trip, a pair of Rag & Bone boots with a thick sole (no longer available) did the job of keeping me comfortable and warm. The below are very similar.

Walking Boots

Loafers & Slippers

Sneakers

Clothing: With layering in mind, I pack a variety of long-sleeved shirts that stand on their own as well as layer under knits. Stripes and checks add a little something with collars and tails peeking out from under a sweater. I included a pretty white blouse that filled the need for a dressier top for dinner. A range of cashmere sweaters in varying weights are good to have on hand. I roll and tightly tuck them in a neat row into my bag. The bulkiest one I carriy in my tote on the flight. I wear comfortable jeans and pack two others to rotate throughout the week. A pair of black pants are good to have as a switch for dinners.

Shirts: plaid, floral, striped, gingham, white

Knits: black, white, tan, wine, grey


Pants: dark, medium and light wash jeans, black pants

Essentials: I love cashmere beanies for traveling. They fit in a pocket or my crossbody bag taking up no space at all. I rotated through three in one week for variety. Cashmere scarves are another must and an assortment of colors instantly changed the look of my outfits. I’ve collected several over the years and am so happy to have a selection when I take cold weather trips. I packed wool socks in various weights and colors and found that laying them flat in the interior zippered part of my suitcase was most efficient and less bulky then folding them. Tee-shirts and turtlenecks were useful as layering pieces or on their own.

Hats and Socks

A Variety of Scarves

Tops: turtlenecks, stripes, solids

The tote: This might be the most important key to successful carry-on travel.All toiletries, chargers, electronics, an umbrella, and gloves go in the tote. I keep them separate from my packed clothing. It helps me stay organized knowing exactly where everything is. I have a permanent, clear toiletry bag that comes in handy for flights. It’s strong and easy to find. I brought one cross-body handbag on this trip with the requirement of being lightweight, waterproof and nondescript. I wore it under my jacket to board the flight so it doesn’t look like I’m carrying too much. I’ve had a couple of instances where airlines count my crossbody bag as a 3rd bag, so I always make sure I leave enough room in my tote to place it inside if needed. A large cashmere scarf travels with me wherever I go, even warm climates. Planes and hotels are often too chilly for me.

The Gear: suitcase, tote, handbag, TSA Pre bag

I know it seems like a daunting task if you have not packed like this before, but once it’s broken down to a formula, it’s actually very easy and an efficient way to travel.

Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Elbe

    I also have a permanent clear toiletry bag. Because of the way it is constructed, it holds more than a zip-lock bag. So glad I found it!

  2. Susan

    You got all that in one carry-on?! Wow! Which luggage did you use?

    • Karima

      Yes! I have an older version of Victorinox similar to this, but I think any bag would do.

  3. Carol

    Love the slipper type shoes! Would you mind posting the brand because the link doesn’t work.
    Thanks!

  4. Vida

    I’m going to print this out and use as my packing guide for a similar trip in spring.

    Doubtful that I will be as streamlined or efficient as you…. in that case I will just check.

    Either way, this “what to wear” list is spot on.

    Brilliant! Thank you, Karima!

  5. Emily

    This is brilliant! I will use as my guide when packing – heading to Rome this February for a school (junior high) trip with my girls. Thank you for providing links and details. Love everything!!!

    • Karima

      I’ve taken two separate trips to Rome with each of my boys in February when they were in junior high for their Latin class. It can be quite chilly but is such a nice time to explore the city without the summer crowds. Enjoy!

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