I'm a Travel Writer, and These Are the 9 Winter Packing Mistakes That Waste Carry-on Space for Short Trips

"Packing for winter trips can be tricky, especially if it's a quick jaunt with smaller luggage space, like a carry-on suitcase or a duffel bag. Since winter escapes often require bulky layers for warmth, fitting everything you might need into one piece of luggage can be difficult. As a travel writer based in the northeast who travels to cold-weather destinations several times a year, I've honed the craft of winter packing for shorter trips."

"It didn't happen after just a couple of trips, though. After tons of trial and error, I've discovered some cold-weather swaps work better than others. The key is to bring along versatile, quality clothing pieces that can be worn for a variety of activities and to streamline your accessories-like hand warmers, neck gaiters, and wool socks -that won't bog your suitcase down. Read on for some of my favorite cold-weather travel swaps for shorter winter trips that save on space."

"While some trips require snow pants, most of the time I can get away with packing effective base layer pieces to pair with winter leggings. I've had these Icebreaker Merino 175 leggings in my arsenal for years now, and they're still going strong despite how thin and lightweight they are. They add an extra layer of warmth under my thicker leggings, and as long as I'm not trekking through deep snow,"

Packing for winter trips with limited luggage requires swapping bulky items for versatile layers and compact accessories. Effective base layers such as merino leggings provide warmth without taking much space and pair well with thicker leggings. Adjustable leg gaiters can protect lower legs from snow for activities like snowshoeing and cross-country skiing, eliminating the need for bulky snow pants. A lightweight, layer-friendly insulated jacket with weather-resistant fabric and a snug hood offers protection and packability compared with a giant parka. Streamlined accessories—hand warmers, neck gaiters, wool socks—preserve warmth without adding bulk. Prioritizing quality, multiuse pieces enables short cold-weather trips to fit into carry-on bags.

Read at Travel + Leisure