Packing for winter in Europe can feel like a challenge—how do you stay warm without overpacking? I’ve been there, stuffing my suitcase with too many sweaters, only to realize I still didn’t have what I actually needed. After multiple winter trips across Europe, I’ve nailed down the ultimate winter travel wardrobe for Europe—a mix of warm, stylish, and practical essentials.
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Clothing Essentials for Europe in Winter
Depending on where you visit (which I will share about later!), you’ll want to pack a variety of versatile items. I’ve shared my favorite staples with you that you can mix and match for your travels!
Layering Pieces | One of the secrets to staying warm is layering. Merino wool and thermal fabrics are your best friends here. Merino wool is lightweight, breathable, and naturally odor-resistant. If you don’t love wool, I suggest Uniqlo’s cashmere heattech – it’s super soft and incredibly warm! I look for fitted thermal tops and leggings that can slide right under your regular clothes. I always pack 2 base layer sets so I can mix throughout my trip.
Cozy Sweaters | I will be the first one to say I hate sweaters. That’s solely because they have to fit a strict criteria for me: no tags, non-scratchy, not too tight, breathable, long enough in the arms (I am 5’10). Needless to say this makes searching for winter clothes a pain. However, over the years I’ve found some staple cozy sweaters I truly love and are perfect for my winter travel wardrobe for Europe.
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Down Puffer Coat | A good down coat is absolutely essential for winter in Europe. Most days through the winter I live in my Lululemon Snow Warrior Parka which honestly, is one of the best investments I have ever made. *Bonus, I think it’s great for skiing too! This year I also snagged a Khujo long winter coat, but I am not sure this brand is available in the U.S. A similar option is this long coat (perfect for cold climates) coat from Quince.
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Winter Weather Accessories | Think: beanies, scarves, gloves, all of which you simply can’t have enough of. I sometimes struggle dressing in winter because I feel like my cute sweaters get covered by my jacket, so my way of mixing things up is by adding a cute scarf and beanie. That way I also feel like I look a little different in pictures from the season, and they adds the perfect finishing touch!
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Wool Coat | When you think of winter outfits in Europe the first thing that probably comes to mine a perfect wool coat. I held off on this for years thinking it was silly investment. I figured my Mango half wool, half polyester coat would do, but when I purchased a wool coat from Aritzia I realized how essential this item was (and how much warmer it is!). This coat actually keeps you warm, while still staying fashionable. I find it’s an investment and a winter essential that adds a chic touch to any outfit.
Leather Boots | We do a lot of walking in winter: think Christmas markets and city trips to Paris, so comfortable, cute, and durable boots are a must. My go-to winter shoes are Dr.Martens . I don’t know if it’s just me, but they are by far my comfiest pair of shoes ever. They do take a while to break in, so invest in a good pair of thick socks, break them in, and then they literally mold to your feet. If you are worried Dr. Marten’s might not work for you, I would go with a pair of Blundstones – their iconic Chelsea boot is durable, great for all seasons, and will hold up for lots of walking.
Dark Jeans | Dark jeans are a winter wardrobe staple as they go with everything! Any color top you might choose, they will go. They are easy to dress up or down, and go with all types of shoes. I love Everlanes super dark wash jeans.
Barrel Leg Jeans | I held off on these for way longer than I should have. When I tell you this is the best jean style in my opinion, I so mean it. As a tall girl with not a lot of curve, this jeans make me feel so sexy and put together. These should be a staple in your winter travel wardrobe because you can wear them with everything and they are incredibly comfortable. Shop my favorites here!
Turtle Neck | I love a good turtle neck to wear under a chunk sweater or cozy coat. It’s a perfect piece to look pulled together, when you really aren’t trying.
Wide Leg Trousers | Another bottom that every traveler needs for comfort and style is a pair of wide leg trousers. I love these for travel days, as well as they look super cute with trendy tennis shoes.
Shop My Winter Essentials
Essential Packing List for Europe in Winter
- Warm Layers & Outerwear (coats, thermals, sweaters)
- Cold-Weather Accessories (scarves, gloves, hats)
- Winter Shoes & Boots (comfortable, waterproof options)
- Trendy Bottoms (wide leg trousers, barrel leg jeans)
- Travel Essentials (portable chargers, adapters, skincare for cold weather)
What to Wear in Europe in Winter (By Weather)
Okay, now Europe is big and there are a variety of climates depending on where you will be heading! Here are some outfit depending on where you are heading.
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