TRAVEL GEAR
My bags are packed…
but where can I go?
I always go to Europe in winter. But not this year! I am packed but can barely get out of the state, let alone the country. Damn the coronavirus! To keep me sane with some hope for future travel, I’ve written some hints for readers who enjoy winter travel as I do.
I have a couple of reasons for this: I want to get away from the heat and humidity of an Australian summer and I hate crowds and waiting in line like people do who summer in Europe.
Having decided to travel in winter, thermals are an essential part of your wardrobe: long johns, singlets (vests), and long-sleeved tops as well.
I recommend you buy these at the end of season sales from Kathmandu or Macpac whose prices are drastically reduced at these times.
The most important thing is layering and taking mix’n’match shirts, pants, and skirts. Always pack at least one t-shirt with a non-offensive message, maybe one from an interesting place you’ve visited, which can often be a conversation starter.
Keep Your Feet Warm
Shoes, joggers, boots, sandals, slippers, and thongs are also essential items for you to consider. Although I would like to take all six, common sense dictates I must choose. If buying new boots, you will need to “wear them in” during our winter.
Don’t ever wear new boots or shoes! I gave my beautiful new boots away in Bratislava as they simply hurt too much! Purchasing footwear that can be worn day or night will save you some space in your suitcase.
Your feet will thank you for a visit to your podiatrist to have comfortable shoes such as Frankie4 fitted — well before your departure date.
Snow boots may be necessary not only for snow but for walking on slippery, icy surfaces. Personally, I love my Jack Wolfskin hiking sandals and socks — so comfortable!
Hiking sandals with two pairs of Merino & Possum Socks are my chosen footwear most days, but check the weather forecast before you set out for the day — if rain is predicted, forget the sandals and socks and wear your waterproof boots to avoid soaking wet feet in freezing temperatures! Not my most pleasant experience!
Halve Your Clothes
Write out a list of the clothes you want to take, then halve it, maybe even halve it again if you’re a person likes me who wants to take everything including the kitchen sink!
Consider the activities you’re planning to do. I always take my swimming costume: hot springs or thermes are more enjoyable in cold weather.
Keep Your Hands and Head Warm
Gloves, warm headwear, scarves, and warm socks are a must. I love my fur-lined leather gloves purchased at a Prague market in 2011 and still going strong, my Russian fur hat I received as a Christmas gift that same year, and my possum merino socks bought in New Zealand in 2013.
Scarves are a different matter altogether. I have many, many scarves bought all around the world as well as many I’ve received as gifts. The hard part is deciding not only how many to take, but which ones!
Don’t Forget A Sarong
I always pack a sarong; you’d be surprised at how many different uses you can find for it. It was a real life-saver when travelling in a second class Chinese sleeping car and wanting to change into my pyjamas in front of 5 other Chinese people — men and women!
It was perfect as a curtain, which not only gave me some privacy but shielded my eyes from the bright lights of the carriage and allowed me to get to sleep.
What About Medications?
The heaviest part of my luggage is always my medications, toiletries, skincare, and makeup. By all means, take the basics, but unless you’re going to the Amazon jungle, you can always buy more wherever you go.
Do take all of your prescriptions though — pharmacists often don’t know what you’re talking about even if all you want is antihistamines.
Also, take a letter from your doctor specifying all of your medications. I’ve never had to produce it, but I always take it just to play it safe. I can’t think of anything worse than being accused of drug smuggling!
Have You Bought Travel-Size Toiletry Kits?
Take sample sizes of shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, cleanser, toner, and moisturiser. Travel size toiletry kits are available from most chemists and supermarkets.
Take a stick deodorant and dry shampoo, and a couple of sample size perfumes instead of a 100ml bottle, and don’t forget lip balm!
I’ve budget-travelled Europe seven times in the last ten years and written about my adventures (and misadventures!) I’m just learning the Medium ropes with the help of Katie Michaelson.
Written by ADRIENNE BEAUMONT
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