From snow days in the South to below-freezing temps in the Midwest, it’s safe to say this winter has been a cold one. And it’s not letting up. So, if you haven’t already, it’s a good idea to stock up on cold-weather gear and clothing for your next winter getaway (or just to keep you warm even on those particularly blustery days). 

This is something I know too well as someone who lives in New York City and is no stranger to below-freezing temperatures this time of year. But my packing skills were really put to the test during a recent cruise to Antarctica with HX. Let me tell you: Antarctica’s frosty weather requires its own category of gear and accessories. 

From heated vests to comfy waterproof boots and packable puffer coats, here are the 16 winter clothing items and travel essentials that made my polar bucket list trip a success. Even if Antarctica isn’t in your 2025 travel plans, these are still the best winter clothes for staying warm and toasty anywhere this season — whether that’s in your own backyard or as far-flung as the South Pole. 

Baleaf Women’s Fleece-lined Leggings

I love these fleece-lined leggings so much that I own three pairs. They’re comfy, keep me warm, and best of all, they have pockets. I wear them frequently to run errands or to walk my dog in the winter, but in Antarctica, I was able to use them as a warm layer under waterproof pants while snowshoeing and iceberg spotting. If you plan to wear more dresses and skirts and want a more elevated look, consider these fleece-lined tights that mimic sheer pantyhose instead.

Patagonia Women’s Down Sweater

I’ve owned this Patagonia down puffer coat for nearly a decade and it’s been a lifesaver on all my winter vacations. The down is super warm and it’s easy to wear over other layers or even under a heavier parka. Plus, it compresses a ton, so it easily fits in my carry-on.

Dewbu Women’s Heated Vest

I got this heated vest at the beginning of this winter, and it’s been an incredible addition to my cold weather closet. This vest is a solid warm layer even without the self-heating feature, and it even has a hood you can zip on or off. It has three heat settings that feel like hand warmers for your whole core, making it a great layer for those below-freezing days. And, much like the puffer above, it’s easy to pack since it compresses down.

Sorel Ona Ave Trek Boots

Cute? Check. Comfy? Check. Waterproof? Check. These boots are the holy trinity when it comes to winter activities. From hiking in Patagonia to trudging through snow in the ski valley, these boots have kept my feet warm, dry, and blister-free. Sorel is known for its high-quality winter boots, so these shoes are a worthy investment to add to your closet.

Danish Endurance Merino Wool Beanie

A good hat is a must on cold days, and this one kept me nice and toasty around Antarctica’s bays. The Merino wool exterior ensures warmth, while the fleece lining is soft and cozy on my ears. I liked this hat so much in the navy blue color that I picked up a second one in black. 

32 Degrees Women’s Lightweight Base Layer Top

32 Degrees Women’s Lightweight Base Layer Leggings

Whether worn under your jeans, ski pants, or even a long dress, a set of lightweight long underwear is a must for cold days. This affordable set from Amazon has served me well for years as a light layer whether I’m skiing, hiking, or visiting Copenhagen in February, thanks to its breathable, stretchy fabric.

Halfdays Johnson Top

Halfdays Sophia Legging

For truly blustery days — or if you’re going on a cold-weather adventure trip — a heavier base layer is a must. This set from Halfdays is my favorite option; it keeps me warm, layers well under my ski pants and coat, and is chic enough that I’ve even worn it alone with boots for après-ski and lounging around on my cruise ship. Tip: Keep an eye out for Halfdays’ seasonal drops when it often has limited batches of fun new colors, from powder blue to hot pink.

Smartwool Classic Hike Crew Socks

If my feet are happy, I’m happy. And if my feet are cold… I’m downright freezing. That’s why I always pack plenty of warm socks for cold-weather trips. Skip cotton options, though: When wet, they’ll stay cold and the friction between your foot and the wet fabric can lead to blisters. Instead, I reach for these cushy Smartwool socks. On super cold days, I also like to stick a few foot warmers to the bottom of my socks to really keep my feet nice and toasty. 

Rivmount Waterproof Touchscreen Gloves

There’s nothing worse than having to take your gloves on and off in frigid temps every time there’s a good photo opp. This is why gloves with touchscreen capabilities are an absolute must for me during the winter. This pair has a soft and fluffy liner, plus a waterproof exterior. For a more heavy-duty ski glove, on the other hand, I swear by this pair.  

Gimecen Women’s Lightweight Fleece Jacket

A lightweight fleece is a versatile layer you won’t regret packing. I’ve owned and loved this one from L.L.Bean for years, but this Amazon version will also do the trick. Shoppers say it’s an ideal mid-weight option for chilly days, and it can be easily thrown over tanks and tees. Its tapered, slim fit makes it a perfect layer to wear underneath a heated vest or puffer.    

Vuori Women’s Outdoor Trainer Shell Jacket

No matter how many layers you have on, if wind is cutting right through them, you’re going to be cold. A lightweight, water-resistant windbreaker layer can do wonders for keeping you warm, especially if sleet or snow flurries suddenly kick up. This one is stylish enough for exploring in the city, while still functional, plus it’s stretchy and breathable, making it great for outdoor adventures year-round. For extra protection from the wind, add on a fleece neck gaiter.

Ekoauer Women’s Lounge Set

I love the look and feel of these chic lounge pants and matching hoodie from the celeb-loved brand Alo. Stretchy and comfortable, this more affordable set from Amazon is similarly great for plane rides or hanging out on the couch at home, but looks put-together enough to wear out and about, too.

Ugg Women’s Classic Ultra Mini Boots

I’ve had my mini Ugg boots for three years now, and they’re the ultimate hero shoe for me in the winter. Cozy and easy to slip on, they’ve kept my feet toasty whether I’m walking around NYC in my fleece-lined leggings or hanging out on the upper deck of my Antarctica cruise ship. Take it from me: These winter boots are considered classic for a reason. 

Sunski Strada Polarized Sunglasses

Sunglasses might be an afterthought for you when packing for a winter getaway, but trust me when I say that polarized sunglasses are an absolute must for snowy locales. The second the sun comes out and starts reflecting off the snow, you’ll be glad you brought a pair of sunglasses to protect your eyes. Plus, I find that wearing a pair of sunglasses helps protect my face from roaring breezes, allowing me to keep my focus on the slopes.   

Naadam Luxe Merino Cashmere Tie Waist Coat

This gorgeous tie-waist coat will fit right in at après-ski in Aspen layered over a sweater and leggings or a cozy sweater dress. It keeps me nice and warm on cold, windy days thanks to its wool and cashmere blend, and the soft material makes it practically robe-like in terms of comfort. I love wearing this on travel days; it’s so roomy that it practically doubles as a warm blanket on chilly flights. While it’s well worth the splurge at $229, this $60 pea coat from Amazon is a great alternative, and shoppers say it’s a “steal” for the quality. 

Halfdays Alessandra Pant

If you plan to go skiing, snowshoeing, or hiking in the snow, you’ll definitely want a good pair of waterproof, insulated ski pants. My sister and I both own and love these ski pants from Halfdays; they’re cute, comfortable, and keep us warm and dry during all of our winter outdoor activities. Carried up to a size 2X and available in two lengths, these pants come with an adjustable waistband and thigh vents to keep you cool on intense ski runs. Snag them in classic black or pick up a more fun color to stand out on the slopes, like dusty rose or bright red. 

Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we’ll send you our favorite travel products each week.