5 Tips for Packing for a Family Winter Break

Going off on a family winter break is exciting. From the snowy landscapes to the cozy cabins, you’re going to have an amazing time with the kids. But packing for it is a different story. When you’re trying to remember everything from the kids’ snow boots to the board games, it’s easy to forget a few essentials, especially for yourself.

Before the chaos of coats and mittens takes over, take a moment to plan ahead. You will make your trip far more enjoyable and less stressful when you are ahead of the game. Here are 5 friendly, practical tips to help you to pack smart and stay warm when your next family winter getaway.

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1. Don’t forget to pack for yourself. Let’s be honest, when you’re packing for the whole family, you’re usually the last one you think about. You’ll remember the extra pair of socks for the kids and the emergency snacks, but somehow forget your own gloves or thermals. This time round, be kind to yourself, think ahead and treat yourself to a few cosy essentials like HeatHolders thermal gloves for women, a warm hat and some thick socks. You’ll feel so much more cheerful during those long outdoor play sessions if your fingers and toes aren’t freezing.
   
2. Layer like a pro. The secret to winter comfort is layering up. So instead of packing one huge jumper each, think about packing multiple lighter layers that you can stack up or strip off as needed for each family member. Aim for a base layer like thermal tops and leggings, a middle layer like fleece or wool, and an outer layer like a puffy jacket or waterproof coat. Not only will you save space in your luggage, but you’ll also help everyone stay comfortable as the temperatures change throughout the day.
   
3. Go for multipurpose items. When space is limited, every item is going to count. Try to pack clothes and accessories that can serve more than one purpose. A warm hoodie, for example, can be worn indoors or layered under a coat. A waterproof jacket can double as a windbreaker. A simple pair of black boots may just work as well for snowy walks as they do for casual dinners. Packing smart doesn’t mean packing less, it just means packing better.
   
4. Don’t forget the entertainment. Winter holidays can involve a lot of downtime, especially when it’s too cold to be outdoors. Make sure that you’ve packed a few indoor entertainment options for the whole family. Books, games, puzzles, and even a deck of cards can come in handy after dinner or when you’re snowed in due to a storm.
   
5. Plan for the unexpected. If there’s anything that’s unpredictable, it’s winter weather. Flights can be delayed, roads can close and snow gear can mysteriously vanish from hotel lost and found bins. It’s always a good idea to pack a few extras, an additional pair of gloves, an additional pair of socks, a spare phone charger and some basic medicine just in case.

Packing for a family winter break doesn’t have to be overwhelming because with a little planning and a dash of self-care, you can make sure that everybody in the family stays warm, cosy, and ready for winter fun.