The Ultimate Holiday Packing List for this Winter

This post may contain affiliate links. We receive a commission on purchases made through links on this page. This is at no additional cost to you & helps support our travels. Read more in our Disclaimer. Thank you!

Are you planning your next vacation and feeling overwhelmed with everything you need to pack? Look no further than this holiday packing list!

holiday packing list

We’ve compiled a comprehensive list of everything you might need to bring on your trip for the holidays, organized into categories to make packing a breeze.

From clothing to toiletries to electronics and documents, we’ve thought of everything you might need. Plus, we’ve included some optional items, like holiday sweaters and gifts, to make your trip even more enjoyable. Don’t let packing stress you out – use this holiday packing list as a guide and focus on enjoying your trip for the holidays.

We’ll cover the ultimate holiday packing list, toiletry checklist, holiday gadgets, checklist for travel abroad, and more!

This post is all about the perfect holiday packing list.

Holiday Packing List:

Clothing

If you’re headed to a winter destination for the holidays, it’s important to pack appropriately for the weather. Be sure to bring warm clothing like a heavy coat, gloves, and a hat, as well as layers you can easily add or remove as needed. Don’t forget to pack comfortable and waterproof shoes or boots for walking in snow or icy conditions. And if you plan on hitting the slopes, be sure to bring appropriate gear like ski pants, a jacket, and goggles.

Depending on the holiday events you have planned, it’s always nice to get a little dressed up. Don’t forget any themed events like Ugly Sweater Parties, Pajama Parties, or a cocktail attire party.

  • Shirts
  • Pants
  • Underwear and socks
  • Thermals
  • Swimsuit (for the hot tub!)
  • Jacket/sweater
  • Winter Coat
  • Pajamas
  • Snow boots
  • Scarf
  • Gloves/mittens
  • Hand & feet warmers
  • Dressy outfit & shoes
  • Holiday sweaters and outfits
  • Sweaters or clothes from family members you’ll see

OUR FAVORITE winter clothes:

Toiletries

When packing toiletries for a winter destination, be sure to include items like moisturizer, lip balm, and hand cream to combat the dry air. It’s also important to bring sunscreen, as the sun’s rays can be just as strong in the winter as in the summer. When visiting family, don’t forget to pack any medications you might need, as well as any specific toiletries you prefer to use. It’s also a good idea to bring a small first aid kit in case of any unexpected injuries or illnesses.

  • Toothbrush and toothpaste
  • Deodorant
  • Shampoo and conditioner
  • Body soap
  • Face wash & moisturizer
  • Lip Balm
  • Lotion
  • Razor and shaving cream
  • Sunscreen (yes, even if it’s cold!)
  • Insect repellent
  • Medications
  • Makeup
  • Hairbrush
  • Hair products and accessories
  • Jewelry
  • First Aid Kit
  • Feminine products (if needed)

OUR FAVORITE toiletry picks:

Electronics

When traveling to a cold weather destination, it’s important to pack the right electronics to capture your memories and stay connected. You may want to bring a camera with a charger, a portable charger to keep your phone and other devices powered up, and a laptop with an HDMI cord if you plan on streaming movies or shows. However, it’s important to note that electronics can die faster in cold air, so it’s best to keep them insulated and warm when not in use. Consider packing them in a separate bag or keeping them close to your body to prevent damage from the cold weather.

  • Phone and charger
  • Camera and charger
  • Portable charger
  • Headphones
  • Laptop and charger
  • HDMI cord
  • Travel adapter/convertor (if needed)

OUR FAVORITE travel electronics:

Documents

When traveling during the holidays, it’s important to make sure you have all the necessary documents with you. This includes a valid passport or government-issued ID, your travel itinerary with confirmation numbers, and your health insurance card. It’s also a good idea to bring some cash and a credit card in case of emergencies. Make sure to keep these documents organized and easily accessible during your travels.

  • Passport/ID
  • Travel itinerary
  • Health insurance card
  • Cash/credit card

the best document holders:

Miscellaneous

When planning a winter destination trip, consider packing a travel pillow and blanket for long flights or car rides, a water bottle to stay hydrated in dry winter weather, and some of your favorite snacks to keep you fueled throughout your trip. It’s also nice to be extra generous and considerate during the holiday season by carrying small gifts or tokens of appreciation to give to people you encounter on your travels, such as taxi drivers, flight attendants, hotel staff, and other service workers. This is a great way to spread holiday cheer and show gratitude for those who make your trip possible. We personally pick up chocolates for our flight attendants and $5-10 gift cards for Starbucks to hand out whenever we can.

  • Travel pillow and blanket
  • Water bottle
  • Snacks
  • Daypack/small bag
  • Holiday Gifts
  • Flight Attendant Gifts
  • Small Tokens of Appreciation

This post was all about the perfect holiday packing list!

While you're here...

You can get great deals by booking through our links! We share our favorite ways to book our travels and we earn a small fee each time you make a purchase. This is at no extra cost to you and helps keep us on the road! 

SHARE TO:

more posts to check out!

Related topics:

want a free long term packing list?

Know exactly what to bring on your long term travel adventure with this FREE Long Term Travel Packing List. Just enter your info below to join our weekly newsletter and get it sent straight to your inbox!

more to love...

Hi there!

We’re Alicia & Nate, a couple that traveled full-time for 3 years straight. We are now living in a cozy little apartment in Albania. We have a passion for exploring new places and trying new foods.

don't go now...

Get 33% off!

By signing up for our weekly newsletter, you’ll receive a 33% off coupon that you can use towards your next purchase + tons of tips on travel! 

Our site uses cookies. If you continue, you agree and accept the use of cookies. To find out more, read our Privacy Policy.

Skip to content