Your winter packing list should take all this into account while still being able to fit everything in your luggage.  

Packing light in the winter is harder than packing light in the summer. That’s a fact. On cold-weather trips, you’ll need heavier clothes, more layers, and extra accessories.

This article will teach you how to dress like a Minnesotan. We may not be known as the most fashion-forward state but we know how to dress for our weather. Our fashion has a function. We have some pointers that will keep you warm and help you blend with the locals.  

Whether you’re headed to Roseau for the holidays, hockey, or going snowmobiling, here’s how to pack light for winter travel.  How to Pack for Cold Weather  Before we get to the packing list, let’s start with two basic principles of packing light. The first tip: Pack Layers, Not Bulk!  Heavy sweaters and sweatshirts are cozy but can take up a lot of space in your luggage. Consider leaving room in your bag and buying a new sweatshirt as a souvenir.  

It’s better to dress in thinner, insulating layers.

Think base layers,  long-sleeve t-shirts, and thin sweaters. A local favorite is smart wool. Individual layers will take up less space in your bag and give you more clothing options.  

It’s important to wear the right fabrics.

Wearing high-performance fabrics, whether natural or synthetic, is important in more extreme weather. In winter, wear wool for its high warmth-to-weight ratio. Merino wool is “nature’s performance fabric” for its temperature-regulating and anti-odor properties.  You might already own a wool sweater. We recommend merino or alpaca wool for socks, sweaters, and base layers. There is nothing worse than getting hot and sweaty and stepping out into the cold. You just created a popsicle.  

Principle two: If It is Bulky, Wear It.  

Next, wear your heaviest stuff. Let’s say you have a heavy sweater that you love and want to bring on your trip. That’s fine but you should only bring one. Save room in your bag and wear it on the plane or car ride. Wear, don’t pack, your heaviest stuff. Wearing that sweater rather than packing it will save space  in your luggage. Of course, this also applies to your winter coat.  Take it off and stuff it in the trunk or overhead bin when you get warm.  

Winter Packing List Basics  

• For cold-weather trips, here’s what you should pack.  Fitted Sweaters (1-2)  
• Lightweight merino wool or cotton sweaters will pack most easily.  
• Long and Short-Sleeved solid T-Shirts (2-3)  
• The best winter travel clothes are the ones that layer well. In addition to your sweaters, pack two to three tops to serve as your first layer. 
• Choose a mix of long and short sleeves, so you can be just as ready for a full day in freezing weather as you are for an evening by a cozy indoor wood fire.  

Base Layers  

Pack a lightweight pair of long underwear (leggings and long-sleeve shirt) to make any outfit warmer. Any brand that makes good merino wool clothes will also make good base layers. Smartwool and Minus 33 sell multiple options, including long underwear and leggings, for the whole family. If you do not have these, no worry. Roseau has two retail shops that specialize in dressing folks for the cold, Annie’s Trading Post and Ronnings.  

A warm, insulating base layer can be worn even under warm clothes like a sweater and jeans, especially if you’ll be outside.  

Bottoms / Pants (2 pairs)  

For cold weather trips in rural areas, consider packing two pairs of pants or for ladies’ leggings, and a pair of jeans that can be dressed up or down. No distressing or holes are best as it lets the cold in.  

Down Jacket or Omni Heat  

Down jackets are the best coats for winter travel and adventures. They pack down small when not in use, are warm for their size, and will be more weather-resistant than more fashion-forward coats. We also like coats with Omni heat- a thin insulated liner made from thermal reflective materials. 

Warm, Lightweight Scarf  

A scarf is a winter packing must. While you won’t want to sacrifice warmth, you do want a scarf that won’t take up too much room in your pack. A lightweight jersey or merino wool scarf will give you warmth without bulk. Pair it for use with your coat and sweaters for additional options.

 

Hat and Gloves  

Wear a wool or wool blend hat to keep your head warm and to retain heat. Gloves must be waterproof.  

Shoes: Boots and Sneakers (1-2)  

For cold-weather travel, opt for a waterproof or water-resistant,  neutral-colored pair of boots that pair well with all of your outfits.  

If you’re looking for a new pair, Sorel is a go-to brand for both men and women for waterproof, winter-ready boots that actually look stylish. “For minimum slippage on snow and ice,  you want an outsole that is relatively soft with maximum  tread.” In other words, choose boots with rubber traction, not leather, soles for inclement weather. Again, you can find these locally.  

Depending on your trip and itinerary, you can also pack a pair of sturdy sneakers to wear on nicer days or for indoor workouts. Socks (several)  to keep your feet warm, grab a few pairs of wool socks. Again,  merino wool is our preferred winter sock material, because it’s warm, odor-resistant, and sweat-wicking. Plan to wear each pair two or three times before washing and hand wash them on longer trips.  

No matter how much you try to reduce bulk, winter clothes simply take up more room in your luggage. Use Compression  Sacks and Packing Cubes to create space for other items. These can be purchased at Amazon. These nifty bags will press out any excess air out and make packing a breeze. Don’t forget a good book. There is something nostalgic about sitting by a toasty fire, under a blanket, with a book and mug of your favorite warm beverage to remind you to relax and savor the moment.  

You now have your suitcase must-haves to tackle your typical Minnesota winter’s day. If you are heading out sledding, skiing, or fishing, it’s wise to contact an outfitter or guide for details on what you need for your adventure. If you learned anything from this blog, it should be dressed in layers and wool is wonderful.  Welcome to winter in Roseau.  

Photos are compliments of Annie’s Trading Post – A destination retail experience!