Winter in Glencoe, Scotland. When those winter blues get you down, there’s really only one thing to do: travel. There are, of course, a few extra things to consider when jet setting this time of year, but if you keep these tips and tricks in mind, your adventure will be as fun, exciting, and without stress.
Reduce Weather-Related Hassles
Snow, ice, and winter storms can complicate travel on the road and in the air, so plan accordingly. If you’re going by car, expect shorter driving days and always keep a winter safety kit in your car next to some just-in-case extra winter gear, like a warm hat and gloves. When it comes to flying, winter is a time when it pays to shell out extra cash for a direct flight. Each layover is another chance for your plans to be thwarted by the weather. Lastly, if you’re renting a car in your final destination, make sure it’s all-wheel drive and is otherwise capable of handling the weather you’ll be using it in.
Invest in Proper Pieces
One thing that will make your winter adventure miserable rather than wonderful is having the wrong gear. If you’re going to be in colder climates, a good coat is a must and one that integrates leading fabric technologies like this 3-in-1 option from Craghoppers is as good as it gets (bonus: it includes sneaky pockets to hide your valuables). A good fleece like this electric pink number is another great way to stay warm and cozy in chilly weather. And, of course, boots are essential for exploring the outdoors in the snow.
And while it may be winter at home, keep in mind that where you're heading it's likely to be much warmer–prime mosquito season, in fact. Protect yourself from not only annoying and but life-threatening bugs by wearing insect repellent clothing on your trip.
Pack Like a Pro
The thing about winter gear is that it takes up significantly more packing space than summer garb. In warmer days you can get away with throwing a few linen pieces and a pair of sandals into a bag and call it a day. But winter packing requires more effort. Vests are one item that goes a long way in a suitcase—they’re more versatile and much smaller than coats, so swap a vest for a coat if you can. More important, however, than what you pack is how you pack. Rolling everything is the way to go. And don’t forget boot space—stuffing socks and underwear inside boots will free up precious suitcase real estate.
Capitalize on the Benefits of Winter Travel
Cold weather can certainly have a negative effect on travel, but there are big benefits to winter explorations as well. Since, outside of the holidays, winter travel is largely considered off season, reduced traffic often leads to reduced prices. Even better, there are some places that are actually better to travel to in the winter, such as:
Reno Tahoe Territory
– Lake Tahoe: While this jaw droppingly gorgeous lake is enjoyable all year round, you can beat the summer crowds if you go in the winter. Lake Tahoeturns into a winter wonderland when the snow hits. If you’re looking for a time to bust out your skis or snowboard, this is the trip for it.
– Yosemite National Park: If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to ice skate among some of the most glorious nature that the U.S. has to offer, Yosemite in the winter will answer that for you. From November until March, you can ice skate at the Half Dome Village Ice Skating Rink, warm up by the outdoor fire pit when you’re done, and top it off with s’mores.
_– Duluth, Minnesota: _ Strange, right? Who would want to subject themselves to Minnesota in the middle of winter if they didn't already live there? Adventurous surfers, that’s who. Stoney Point along Lake Superior whips up wicked waves in the winter thanks to storms and produces a surfing experience unlike any other that even Alex Gray himself couldn’t resist.
However, most people are traditionalists and prefer to swap the snow and cold for some warmth and sand, which everyone who has any experience in colder climates can understand. If you’re hunting for the perfect beach vacay, check out these gems:
inga
– San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua: This once sleepy fishing village has turned into a tourist and surfing mecca, thanks to its warm water and even warmer weather year round. There are plenty of places to stay in San Juan del Sur proper as well as on its outskirts if you want a more reclusive vacation. The best part is that several discount airlines fly there, so you can easily get there on the cheap.
_– Oaxaca, México: _ Revered as one of the most cultural cities in the country, Oaxaca has everything to offer. From stunningly colorful architecture, to some of the best food you’ll ever eat, and traditional festivities and celebrations, Oaxaca will change you by adding more magic to your life than you ever thought possible.
– Havana, Cuba: Now that Cuba is opening up to the U.S., it won’t be long before this once secluded island begins moves beyond the beautiful 1950s postcard that it is now. Catch it before it changes and you’ll be rewarded with experiences like driving down Havana’s streets in a baby blue convertible straight out of “Leave it to Beaver.”
Whether you travel to escape or embrace the colder seasons, leave with the proper clothing and attitude to best enjoy where you're headed.
Originally written by RootsRated for Craghoppers.
Featured image provided by john mcsporran