Frequently Asked Questions on Many Travel Forums

I belong to many travel forums online and this question of “what should I wear?” is so commonly asked over and over again. Many people who don’t travel often are really unsure of what to wear or how to ask the right questions especially when it is their first time traveling to a country with fickle weather or wetter/colder climate.

Many asked for what brand to wear; and then, 100 random people would answer with random brands. I mean…how can one decide when the answers were practically just people’s choices and preferences? It is hardly conducive to make a decision on what to buy. Plus, let’s face it – these clothing items aren’t cheap. I thought I would provide my recommendations that I gained from researching and researching as well as experience traveling to cold climate destinations. I am just hoping that it will make it easier for anyone that is looking for this information.

Layering

Many know this is not rocket science and many avid travelers already know this method is probably the most effective in handling different types of weather. Layering is so easy as you can shed or add layers as you need. If it’s too cold, add more. If it’s too hot, take out one layer.

However, there is also a good trick to ensure a successful layering especially in colder climate. In colder climate, my recommendation is to start with a base layer. Depending on where you go and how cold it gets, determine how thick of a base layer to get. Base layers have different warmth level so decide accordingly. Brands such as LL Bean, will have options to choose. I myself I love the 32 degree Heat brand that I bought at Costco. It’s cheap and it works great. Base layers also are available for top and bottom. Costco at times offers an Orvis Line Legging that is super affordable and warm as well. Again, you can spend however much you want with various brands.

When it isn’t so cold, then I will skip the base layer and just do a simple tank top or tshirt. Then, the next layer can be either a fleece, sweatshirt, or sweater. Then, next layer, depending on how cold, can be either a down or a warm jacket. when it is not all that cold, you can pick and choose these layers whether you need both or just one or the other.

The last layer can be a thin shell jacket that is waterproof and windproof. That way, you can still use this jacket in warm weather when it rains or when it’s windy without the other layers. Getting a heavy parka that is windproof and waterproof is great too; however, then, it is hard to shed it when you get hot in a car for example. In short, it is less versatile. This method can allow you to use what you already have for the most part.

This outershell is crucial though to keep you dry. When you can keep dry, you can stay warm. There are various levels of waterproofing as well and you can check it in the inner tag of a jacket. For the most part, when it has a Gore-Tex membrane, it will give you the most waterproof protection. Many people think Gore-Tex is a material to keep you warm. In a way, yes; however, it is keeping you warm by keeping you dry.

You also need to do this with your pants – but I usually just use a waterproof rain pants or quick drying one.

Shoes & Socks

Waterproof shoes are so handy when traveling. Most hiking shoes or boots will have options for waterproof with Gore-tex as well. It is up to you how much you want to keep yourself waterproofed however. To keep your feet warm, do get wool socks preferably merino wool socks. The reason the wool material is better is because it keeps your feet insulated even if it sweats and got damp. It also helps with blisters from walking.

Hats

I’m not a huge hat person. I think I look funny wearing a hat. In cold temperatures, it’s essential to keep your ears and face warm. However, when you have a good beanie or ear protection, it should help you. You can also use the hood on the outershell jacket. Make sure to try on the hood to see if it fits nicely before you purchase the jacket. We also purchased a balaclava when we went to Iceland in winter time. That was a good purchase as it really kep our head and most of our face covered up against cold wind.

I hope this quick summary helps with your questions about what to wear. It really doesn’t matter so much about the brand but about getting the right material for the functionality you’re looking for. Most reputable brands will have some type of offering for the function or the material you’re looking for.