Winter Travel Accessories

Winter is in full swing here in Quebec! I can’t help but think about what it must be like for tourists landing here at this time of year from places with more tropical climates.  I also spent some time travelling in Germany a few years ago in the dead of winter and I learned quickly that there are a few accessories that are necessary for winter travelling.  So here are my must-have list:

Blanket Scarf

It’s a scarf, it’s a shawl, it’s a blanket.  One piece keeps you warm and looking trendy.

Recommendation: This lovely plaid scarf from Indigo, easy to mix and match with lots of colours and it’s super soft.

Warm hat

Nothing is worse than having your ears freeze from the cold.  As an added bonus, there no need to do your hair!

Recommendation: I’m a sucker for cute hats with a pompom on the top like this one also from Indigo.

Thermos

Not only is it eco-friendly to bring your own thermos, but a hot coffee that will stay hot for more than a minute and can be your best friend as you walk around the icy, snowy streets.

Recommendation: This Bodum thermos does double duty because it also has a built-in french press, so you can make your coffee directly in your thermos cup.  How awesome is that?!?

Waterproof boots

Nothing puts a real damper on a trip like, well, damp feet.  Investing in quality footwear is a must, to have happy outdoor visiting days!

Recommendation: I love my Sperry boots because they keep my feet dry and warm no matter the weather.  For more extreme conditions, I recommend Sorel boots for everyday and a pair of leather rider boots for a more dressy look.

Smart technology gloves

Say goodbye to frozen hands while trying to figure out the address where you want to go next.

Recommendation: My current pair are from Reitmans and a bargain for under 20 dollars.

Kleenex or handkerchief

Runny nose sucks, so make sure to keep kleenex on hand.  I also wear glasses so I know when winter has arrived because when I walk indoors and my glasses fog up.  Having a handkerchief keeps them clear and clean.

Recommendation: Any brand works, but I think these tissues are super cute.

Lightweight packable jacket

One of my biggest annoyances with winter is when you are visiting indoors and you have to drag a heavy winter coat around.  Thank goodness for packable jackets.  They are warm enough for winter but can compress down to a small size that you could easily put in a tote bag or backpack.  Absolutely amazing!

Recommendation: I love my Calvin Klein jacket because it can easily be dressed up or down.

Battery pack

The sad reality is that the cold weather drains a phone battery more quickly, so don’t be caught without a battery pack…. a charged battery pack!

Recommendation: I like this small battery pack from Jackery because it quickly re-charges my phone and it’s small enough to carry around.