Packing for a trip is easy when you’re a minimalist. Figuring out what to bring is infinitely simpler when you’re comfortable with having fewer things. However, packing for a trip to somewhere cold can stump even the consummate minimalist. You’ll need more layers, heavier clothing, and chunkier shoes that can withstand harsh elements. All of these things simply won’t fit in a single carry-on.
Or will it? Below are some tips on how to still have all the essentials for a winter trip without having to check in a bag:
Choose the right backpack
Packing light starts with having something that can hold all of your essentials without being difficult to carry. You’ll still be bringing a lot of stuff, so the backpack you choose needs to be as lightweight as possible.
When choosing a backpack for a winter trip, then, find something that’s as close to the maximum dimensions allowed for carry-on luggage. The numbers vary for different airlines, so make sure that the one you pick complies with their rules. It’s also a good idea to choose a durable backpack made out of strong material. Whether you’d like it to have a chest or waist strap for weight distribution is completely up to you.
Don’t pack the bulky stuff
Trips to colder climates will require packing enough clothing to keep you warm when you get there, as well as appropriate footwear. Obviously, stuffing thick items into the backpack that you’ve chosen will take up a lot of space, fast.
Instead, save all of that real estate for your layers, and wear your heaviest items, such as your winter coat and boots, on the flight. If it gets too hot, you can always shed the coat and store it in the overhead compartment with your backpack.
Choose versatile layers
You can further minimize the load you’re going to carry by choosing clothes and layers that can be worn in multiple situations. A heavy zip-up hoodie, for example, can be worn indoors or as outerwear, out to the gym or to a casual lunch with friends. Just Sweatshirts makes their heavy zip-up hoodie with 18oz 100% cotton that’s insulating yet breathable. It can be worn on its own, but it works great as a layering piece, too. Since they’re already pre-shrunk, you won’t have to worry about them shrinking in the laundry. These hoodies come in minimalist-friendly neutral shades such as black, navy, charcoal, and gray, so it’s easy to pair them with anything you own.
Choose your fabrics wisely
Insulating high-performance fabrics will be your best friend in extreme weather conditions. Some natural fabrics, such as merino wool, will also keep you warm when it’s cold, and you can wear them for a couple of days in a row without worrying about them smelling, since it’s odor-resistant. It’s also relatively lightweight, and clothes made out of them won’t take up too much space in your backpack. This allows you to stuff a few extra items in there, whether that’s a toiletry bag, an extra pair of shoes, or any other essentials that you feel you might need.
