The Ultimate Winter Packing List for Solo Female Travellers
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Travelling solo in winter can be pure magic. This is the only winter packing list for solo female travellers you’ll need. Snow-dusted streets, cosy cafés, and crisp air turn even the busiest cities into something softer, quieter, more romantic.
I’ve travelled through many winter destinations like Japan, Seoul, New York and Bruges, Belgium—and trust me, each destination brought its own version of a winter wonderland (along with its own kind of bone-chilling cold).
But here’s the truth: winter travel doesn’t have to mean stuffing your suitcase with your entire wardrobe or freezing on the street while trying to look cute. With the right winter travel essentials—and a bit of strategy—you can stay warm, stylish, and safe while travelling solo in cold weather.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through exactly what to pack for winter travel as a solo female traveller, how to layer like a pro, what cold-weather skincare to bring, and which safety items you don’t want to skip.
👉🏽 Do not forget to check out my ultimate guide on how to travel solo for the first time!
The truth about travelling solo in winter
One of the biggest mindset shifts I’ve had over the years is realising that you don’t need sunny skies or warm temperatures to have an amazing trip. There’s this idea that solo travel is only fun when it’s warm and easy to walk around in a summer dress—but winter travel brings its own kind of magic.
Some of my favourite solo memories have happened while wrapped up in layers, wandering through snowy streets in Tokyo, or warming my hands around a paper cup of hot chocolate in Bruges. Whether it’s Christmas markets in Europe, holiday lights in New York, or cosy cafés in Seoul, there’s something special about seeing a destination through its winter charm.
Yes, winter requires more preparation. You’ll need to pack smarter, layer better, and pay attention to things like daylight hours and icy pavements. But it’s worth it. The festive atmosphere, the winter food, the slower pace—it all adds something rich to the solo travel experience. So if you’ve ever thought, “I’ll wait until it’s warmer,” I get it—but I promise, winter solo travel is not to be overlooked.
Winter Travel Packing Essentials for Solo Female Travellers
My Winter Travel Packing List
- Winter Coat Quilted with Hood: A quilted winterproof jacket is a solo travel essential. It’s lightweight yet incredibly warm, perfect for layering without bulk. This jacket has a water-resistant shell, insulated lining, and a fitted shape to stay cosy and stylish.
- Thermal Base Layer Lounge Set: Cold-weather ready and made for movement, this thermal fleece base layer set is your winter travel MVP. It locks in warmth without overheating and is perfect underneath your clothing. I swore by this set while walking around the cold streets of Seoul.
- Touchscreen Winter Gloves: These upgraded touchscreen gloves make winter travel so much easier. I can easily use my iPhone without exposing my hands to the cold. And let’s be honest, I often take out my phone to take photos.
- Timberland Winter Boots: When I’m travelling solo in winter, I need boots that do it all—keep me warm, dry, and steady on icy streets. My Timberland boots are a staple.
- Merino Wool Winter Socks: When I travel in winter, warm socks are a non-negotiable necessity. My go-to are thick Merino wool ones because they keep my feet cosy even on the coldest days.
- Oslo Scarf from Rails: A scarf is one of my favourite winter travel essentials, and this plaid one never leaves my bag. The brushed wool feels soft and cosy without being heavy, and the classic pattern instantly elevates any outfit.
- Winter Baby Blue Sweater Frankie Blue: My Frankie Cable Winter Baby Blue Sweater has become a cold-weather favourite. The chunky knit feels cosy yet chic, and the relaxed fit makes it perfect for layering.
- Thermal Fleece Translucent Thighs: Thermal fleece translucent tights are my secret weapon for winter travel. They look sleek and sheer like regular tights, but inside they’re lined with warm fleece. Perfect for pairing with dresses or skirts in cold weather.
- Uniqlo Heattech: I love the whole line of heattech products from Uniqlo. They’re affordable and come in a variety of products. They’re also very affordable. It’s a perfect base for layering clothing.
- Yvette Woven Shoulder Bag: I love this cute shoulder bag from Charles and Keith. It makes every outfit classy and looks stunning.
shop my winter outfits
How to layer like a pro (and still look cute)
The single most important rule of winter travel packing is to master layering. My go-to formula always starts with a thermal base layer—both a top and leggings or tights. It makes such a difference.
With that as your foundation, you can build warmth without bulk. On top, I’ll usually wear a cosy sweater and trousers, and then finish with a winterproof jacket.
I swear by the thermal sets I bought on Amazon, but Uniqlo’s heat-protection clothing is another game changer. They’re lightweight, pack down small, and keep you warm even in sub-zero temperatures.
Accessories are part of the layering system, too. A big scarf adds instant warmth (and style), while gloves, hats, or earmuffs keep you comfortable when the wind bites. With these layers, you’ll stay warm, practical, and still feel put-together in photos—no marshmallow effect required.
Travel beauty and skincare essentials in cold weather
Cold weather changes everything about how your skin behaves. The dry air outside, the constant heating inside, all strip away moisture, leaving skin feeling tight and dehydrated. From experience, I’ve learnt that winter travel means adjusting your skincare routine to add more hydration and protection.
My beauty and skincare winter packing list
- Embryolisse Moisturiser: I stick with my favourite Embryolisse moisturiser year-round because it has the perfect consistency and works beautifully in winter too.
- La Neige Overnight Sleeping Mask: When the temperatures drop, I give my skin an extra boost with hydrating face masks. I love the Overnight Sleeping Mask from La Neige.
- La Neige Lip Sleeping Mask: I’ve been using my Lip Sleeping Mask for almost 5 years. I use it at night, when I’m at home and basically whenever I’m not wearing any lipstick.
- Carmex: If I’m on the go, I’ll always have a Carmex in my bag. I love the lip tubes, but the Medicare ones work great for dry and chapped winter lips. An oldie but always a goodie.
- Kiehl’s Avocado Eye Cream: A good under-eye cream also makes a difference. I love the Kiehl’s Avocado Eye Cream for winter because it’s rich and nourishing.
- Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow Toner and Juice Moisturiser: And serums are non-negotiable, and Glow Recipe are my go-to. This is magic in a bottle. It helps my skin stay plump and dewy even in freezing air.
- Sol de Janeiro Bum Bum Cream: Lately, I’ve also been obsessed with their Bum Bum Cream. This stuff smells fantastic, it’s so creamy, moisturising and absorbs fast.
The key is layering your skincare just like your clothes: light serums first, followed by moisturiser, and then something richer if needed. It’s all about locking in hydration so your skin can handle the shift from crisp air to heated rooms without flaking or discomfort.
Shop my winter skincare
Winter safety tips for women travelling alone
Winter travel comes with all the usual solo safety rules, but the cold adds its own challenges. Shorter days, icy streets, and remote snowy areas can make situations riskier if you’re not prepared.
One story that really stuck with me was of a girl in Canada who went out for a walk in a snowy forest. She wasn’t familiar with the area, and because of the snow, she got turned around and eventually lost. With no signal and freezing conditions, things escalated quickly. It was a reminder that winter can be beautiful, but it demands extra caution.
My biggest advice is simple: don’t wander off alone in snowy, unfamiliar areas where there’s no mobile service or other people around. It’s just not worth the risk. Stick to busier routes, well-marked paths, or city areas where help is nearby.
In terms of gear, snow boots with grip are non-negotiable. I also always carry a portable charger, my phone, and small supplies like water and snacks—especially if I know I’ll be out for a while. These little things give peace of mind and can make all the difference if plans change.
👉🏽 Check out my post on the best solo travel safety accessories for women!
FAQs: winter packing list for solo female travellers
Can I travel with just a carry-on in winter?
Yes, it’s possible—but only if you pack smart. I rely on compressible packing cubes and wear my bulkiest items (like boots and jacket) on the plane. Base layers help reduce the amount of heavy clothes you need.
Do I really need thermal Clothing?
Absolutely. Thermal tops and leggings are the secret to staying warm without overpacking. They’re lightweight, take up little space, and make every outfit warmer.
How do I avoid looking bulky in winter photos?
It’s all about layering. Start with thermals, then add fitted pieces like a sweater or slim trousers before your coat. A big scarf or beanie adds warmth and style without making you look marshmallow-y.
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The ultimate winter packing list for solo female travellers
Travelling solo in winter can feel intimidating at first, but with the right layers, essentials, and a little planning, it becomes one of the most rewarding ways to see the world.
From snowy streets to Christmas markets, the cold brings its own charm—and you’ll be ready to enjoy every moment. I’m a sun and beach girl, but I learned how to love the cold weather.
Now that you’ve got your winter packing list sorted, why not start planning where to use it? Check out:
- Travelling Solo For The First Time: A Guide For Women
- How I Take Photos Of Myself On A Solo Trip: Without Feeling Awkward
- This Is In My Travel Safety Kit For Women Who Love To Travel
Let me know if this post was helpful! Which winter destination do you have in mind travelling to? Leave me a comment below or on Instagram. I’d love to hear more about you.
