How to Survive in a Winter Wonderland

A person walks in the middle of the storm Wednesday morning on 15 St and G St, Washington, D.C., on February 20, 2019. The Washington area woke up to morning snow, with the federal government and dozens of schools closed, as the region prepared for what forecasters said will be a disruptive winter storm. (Photo by Aurora Samperio/NurPhoto via Getty Images) NurPhoto via Getty Images / Aurora Samperio/NurPhoto

Holiday travel can be magical with snow-covered landscapes and cozy clothes. It also means lots of preparation in order to fully enjoy the wintry adventure. For those who brave traveling to the coldest places for the love of adventure or the pull of family and friends, there’s more to it than simply bundling up. Winterizing your wardrobe and knowing your environment can make a world of difference. Conquer the freezing destinations with these cold-weather requirements.

Wear Layers

You’ve heard it before: layers, layers, layers. That hand-knit sweater is cute but does nothing to protect against unrelenting frostbite. Packing a few layers that can be worn multiple times is key so the suitcase can close seamlessly.

Waterproof Shoes are a Must

Cold feet can ruin anybody’s winter outings. Nobody likes trudging through snow-filled shoes while already trudging through snow. Boots above the ankle are preferred for happy feet all winter long.

Be Prepared for Delays

Just because you have travel plans doesn’t mean public transportation will be ready on time. Bring entertainment for downtime. Be sure to pack chargers and batteries so the inevitable waiting can be a more pleasant part of the experience.

Arrive Ready for a Blizzard

Keep the big winter coat out and have the clunky winter boots within arms reach because winter weather likes to dump fresh snow as soon as travelers arrive. Start the trip off stress-free with winter gear at hand, otherwise, the fun stops as soon as negative temperatures whip around.

Pack An Emergency Kit in the Car

If your car breaks down, don’t walk. No matter what time of day or night, or how close to civilization you may be, never try to outrun nature. The cold will come back to bite you. Instead, put together an emergency kit to hold out until it’s safe to go outside or call for help. A few items to include are blankets, gloves, bottled water, non-perishable snacks, a flashlight with batteries, jumper cables, antifreeze, and a sturdy ice scraper.

Prioritize Relaxation

The excitement of traveling is full of highs and lows. Nurture the lows through the short days of winter with rejuvenating time indoors. Taking care of your body is just as important indoors as it is when playing in the snow. Whether it’s a cup of cocoa, fireside naps, or a dunk in a hot tub, giving your body rest ensures healthy days of adventure ahead. Travel safe and travel often.