When it comes to vacation planning, most people go for the summer. However, the snow scarves and stunning views often make a winter getaway one to remember. Winter may bring the colder weather, but it also opens doors to some of the coziest, most magical travel experiences of the year.
From snow dusted cities and mountain getaways to roaring Christmas markets, a winter vacation can be pure magic, especially if you plan it right. Whether you're off on a snowy adventure to ski or you simply are looking for a quiet escape for Christmas markets, planning your winter vacation in advance is a must. Here are 10 essential tips for making it happen.
Choose the right destination for the season.
Not every destination shines in winter, unfortunately. There are some places that practically transform into fairy tale villages, but others just look great and dreary. Do a little bit of research before you book because there are some destinations that are far more winter inclined than others. If you're into skiing or snowboarding then the Alps, Canada or Scandinavia are perfect. If you're looking for that winter city break, think of Berlin for the Christmas markets, or Prague, Vienna or even Edinburgh.
Catch a good deal by booking early.
Winter travel, especially around the holidays, can get very expensive. Booking your flights, accommodation, and activities early is actually the best way to lock in those lower prices, which is why we're talking about it right now. Securing the best options is a must, and hotels near ski resorts tend to book very quickly. You don't want to wait too long and miss out on reserving your spot. If you're not tied to school holiday dates, try traveling mid January or early February because prices usually dip once the festive rush dies down. Even if you are tied into school holiday dates, bust the kids out for a couple of weeks.
Plan to pack warmly.
You don't need to over pack to stay warm, you just need the right layers. There is no such thing as bad weather, just bad clothing choices. Start with good thermal base layers, a warm jumper or fleece, and a quality waterproof coat. Never forget your gloves, a hat and a scarf. And of course, HeatHolders socks are a must. These are super warm thermal socks that are designed to keep your toes toasty in the coldest temperatures. If you're looking to explore snowy towns or ski down mountains in the dark, then it's time to make sure you've busted out the perfect cosy toes.
Check the weather.
No matter where you plan to go on your winter vacation, winter weather can be unpredictable. You may have planned a ski break, but winter snowstorms and icy roads can put the brakes on that for you. Always keep an eye on the weather forecast in the week leading up to your trip and make sure that you have travel insurance to cover you in case of cancellations. When the weather is particularly bad, travel companies often like to cancel flights and you don't want to end them out of pocket as a result. It's a good idea to plan some indoor activities or backup options in case the weather goes bad. If you do manage to get to your destination, spas, cosy cafes, museums or even hotel lounges are good places to hang out in the warmth.
Be prepared for early nights.
This doesn't mean you have to go to sleep early, but one thing that a lot of travellers forget is that winter means shorter daylight hours. In northern destinations especially, planning your sightseeing and outdoor adventures earlier in the day is important. You can then use the evenings for relaxing activities like spa treatments, amazing restaurants or checking out the local festive lights.
Embrace the festive season.
One thing you'll encounter if you're travelling in late November or December is that you'll fall face first into the festive season. Europe is famous for its Christmas markets that are packed with handcrafted gifts, hot mulled wine and fairy lights. Many cities put up ice rinks, winter festivals and seasonal food that you won't be able to get at other times of the year. Even if you're not a fan of celebrating the holidays or you follow a different religion, it's a great time to soak up the atmosphere and really enjoy the magic that's in the air.
Invest in proper travel insurance.
We already touched on this briefly earlier, but if you're going on a skiing holiday or an athletic vacation in the winter months, then you need to make sure that you have insurance to cover you. Winter travel is notorious for coming with higher risks of delays and cancellations, so having travel insurance is absolutely essential. It can also cover you for lost luggage, ski injuries or emergency medical needs. If you're heading somewhere remote or adventurous. The policy has to match the trip, so get some advice.
Plan to rest as much as you plan to adventure.
Winter breaks don't have to be all about adrenaline rushes on the slopes. You can pack them with activities, but don't forget to schedule in some downtime with a lay in a long soak in a hot tub, or even just reading by a fireplace somewhere. Make sure that you have time to unwind, because after all, isn't that the point of a vacation?
Download the essential apps before you go.
Offline maps, translation tools, weather updates, and transit apps that you may need for getting around are essential to download before you go on your vacation. Battery life drains quicker in colder areas, so make sure that you also have a portable charger.
Don't forget those little comforts.
Packing your favorite tea bags, a little bottle of bubble bath, a journal, or even your most loved slippers is a must when you're travelling. If you bring in the kids, bring board games, movies, or winter themed storybooks to keep them entertained.
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