Winter is often a time when we think of staying put and staying indoors. But that doesn’t mean travel is off the table when cold, wintry weather strikes! Check out the following winter travel tips to keep your next adventure safe and comfortable.
Dress for the Weather
Dressing right for winter weather can be challenging, especially if you live someplace warm. Purchase a few vital clothing staples, below, and wear them in the proper way to stay warm and dry.
Multiple thin base layers. You may think thicker and heavier are better, but that is not always the case. In fact, two thick baselayers will keep you warmer than one thick one. Why? The “dead air” trapped between them prevents your body heat from being lost to the environment.
Marc loves Omni-Wool thermal base layers. They’re super comfy and look good enough to wear as a stand-alone shirt. Personally, I’m a fan of Cuddl Duds tops and leggings.
Down coat or jacket. I was once freezing while touring a city in winter. An acquaintance said to me, “I’m from Chicago and I know how to stay warm – you need a down coat!” Said coat was the best winter wardrobe investment I ever made. Like the base layers mentioned above, the quilted sections filled with down trap air to prevent your heat from escaping. After all, down feathers keep waterfowl warm in winter – they do the same for us!
Waterproof outer layers. It is important to stay dry when you need to stay warm. Depending on your activities, consider wearing a coat, pants, shoes, and gloves with waterproof properties.
Loose gloves. Choose lined gloves, as the multiple layers will prevent heat escape. Your gloves should be somewhat loose – if they are skin-tight, they won’t be able to trap dead air.
A scarf or collar. The heat from your core can easily escape if your neck is exposed. Wear a turtleneck sweater, a scarf, or a coat with a broad, tall collar.
A hat or hood. When you’re cold, your body limits blood flow to your hands and feet to prevent heat loss. But blood still flows freely to your scalp. Cover your head to prevent massive heat loss.
Remember, too, that you should be careful not to get overheated if the temperature begins to rise. Loosen your garments or take off a layer if you start feeling hot.
Wear Your Heavy Gear While Flying
You may be worried that your heavy winter coat and boots will not fit in your carry-on or will cause your checked bag to weigh more than 50 pounds. The remedy? Wear them on your flight! Don’t worry, you don’t have to keep your coat on the whole time – most airlines allow jackets or coats in addition to carry-ons and personal items. Furthermore, you’ll be ready for the weather when your plane touches down.
Stay Hydrated
It’s easy to remember to drink plenty of fluids when the weather is hot, but you need to stay hydrated when it is cold, too. Otherwise, you may feel sluggish and suffer from dry skin and chapped lips.
If the thought of cold water makes you shiver, carry an insulated cup of hot tea or herbal tea to sip on. This will help you feel warm and stay hydrated all day.
Be careful of consuming alcohol in cold weather. Doing so can make you “feel” warmer because it alters blood flow near the skin. But this also results in increased loss of body heat. And, alcohol tends to dehydrate.
Keep Your Eyes Focused on Where You Want to Go
Safe driving is essential in wintry weather, especially if you are not accustomed to ice and snow. Check the weather reports, and never venture out on the road if you doubt the safety of doing so.
If you are driving in snow, remember this one simple tip from Popular Mechanics: “Look where you want to go.” Keeping your eyes focused on where want your car to be in a few seconds helps you react to changing conditions rather than becoming distracted. Learn more about it here.
Be Flexible
Winter weather can be unpredictable. A sudden storm may make your outdoor activity unpleasant. Driving may be impeded, and flights may get canceled.
If this happens to you, stay calm. Be kind to everyone around you – service providers and your travel party. After all, they’re dealing with the same conditions too.
Remember that joy can be found wherever you are. Pull out a good book, grab a hot beverage, and relax, come what may.
One part Lois Lane, one part Jimmy Olsen, one part Johnboy Walton, and a bit of that Clark Kent secret identity thing thrown in for good measure.
Cara Siera is a freelance writer and photographer with a passion for travel and exotic cuisine. Join Cara, her husband Marc, and one very spoiled German Shepherd on their next great adventure.