I’m a Travel Writer, and These Are the Only 13 Cozy Styles I Pack for Winter Trips

Ask me to fit my summer resort wear in a carry-on? Challenge gladly accepted! But when it comes to my winter wardrobe, I sometimes stare at stacks of chunky knit sweaters and a lineup of boots and wonder how I’ll Tetris them into my suitcase. But one thing I learned as a fashion closet intern at magazines in New York is the art of editing. 

When I’m packing for a trip — which is often, since I’m on the road nearly three weeks out of the month for my job as a travel writer — I try a similar tactic. I pull out all of my favorites and slowly start taking away the ones that I can live without on a trip. This has helped streamline my closet and form a capsule wardrobe of interchangeable basics. It does wonders for packing and cuts down on getting ready time, too.

So while winter may mean more layers and thicker fabric, once you’ve narrowed down the basics, you can keep your style looking fresh without having to change too much. Mix and match a silk slip skirt with Chelsea boots and a turtleneck sweater or fleece overshirt for a shopping day in London. Sport a holiday party-ready metallic crossbody purse with a versatile white button-down and you’re ready for the galleries of Art Basel Miami. Here’s a list of 13 travel writer-approved must-haves that are the only splurges you’ll need to make this season — and they start at just $30 at Amazon, Everlane, Nordstrom, Quince, Abercrombie and Fitch, and more..

Oversized Turtleneck Knit Sweater

I’m all about having a seasonal uniform, and once you find one or two great knits, they’re an easy way to make an outfit look pulled together. Italian designers like Loro Piana and Brunello Cucinelli are the originators of quiet luxury when it comes to cashmere. I’ll let you in on a secret: You don’t need to drop thousands for your winter wardrobe to look expensive. It’s all about finding the right color and fit.

This pale apricot is a subtle shade, but it can seem more sophisticated than a standard bone white or jet black. The exaggerated turtleneck gently folds over, forming a scarf-like collar, and the slits on either side give the oversized sweater some movement. “It’s the perfect kind of oversized — it doesn’t look like it’s too big on me,” said one shopper. Let it hang loose over jeans, belt it with cigarette trousers, or tuck it into a skirt and pair with knee-high boots. You can even order a few different options since the style comes in 16 shades. 

Wide-leg Corduroy Pants

If you could only pack one pair of pants to get you through the entire season, these Everlane corduroys would be it. The high-rise, barrel-leg style is flattering on most body types, and the angled pockets at the front add a subtle design detail that makes these corduroys look expensive. Winter white is a fantastic shade because you can pair it with a heather gray cashmere top, chunky cream cable-knit sweater, or throw on a contrasting piece of outerwear like an oversized cognac-colored suede shirt jacket. Since the length of the pants skims the ankle, they pair perfectly with Chelsea boots or sneakers since they still allow a pop of color from taller socks to peek through. If you’re looking for an wider-leg corduroy travel pant for winter, we also love Everlane’s Sailor Pant.

Reebok White Leather Sneakers

Sneakers are useful in any season, and that includes winter. Low top and machine washable, you can wear them for both fashion and fitness and keep them looking shiny and new. Shoppers say they’re “easy to wipe clean” and “perfect for the gym, going on a walk, or just because they are so cute.”

Since footwear takes up the most space in a suitcase, I try to be as practical as possible, so these lightweight shoes are the perfect choice. I’d wear them with a long, thick sweater dress or boyfriend jeans, a cable knit top, and an ankle-length overcoat. They’d also look great with my new Alo Yoga tennis sets. And right now, you can score them for nearly 40 percent off, ringing in at just $50.

Down Long Puffer Jacket

When I first moved to Paris, I panicked — I’d never owned a puffer because growing up in Miami and living in the South of France, I never had to. Even though Paris doesn’t get as bone-chillingly cold as New York or Chicago, I never understood the value of a down puffer until living there. As cozy as a sleeping bag, this shin-length, 700+ fill power, down-insulated Quince duffle coat is a “game changer” for winter, as everyone from residents of New England to Iceland tourists rave about it.

The water-repellant and wind-resistant polyester fabric protects against the elements — whether you’re out in rain or snow — and the adjustable and removable hood really comes in handy when the weather takes a turn, ensuring your neck and head are protected. It features two fleece-lined pockets with snap closures to keep your hands toasty in case you forget your gloves.

It’s not too puffy or bulky while still being “extremely warm and easier to wear than my North Face parka,” as one shopper put it. It’s sleek enough to wear out to a nicer dinner or event since it’s a more fitted look that works well over a dress and tights or leather pants and booties. It’s also machine washable, so you don’t need to worry about dry cleaning after traveling.

Fleece-Lined Thermal Joggers

When I’m traveling, I try to pack items that are versatile enough to wear a few different ways — especially in winter, when bulkier pieces take up more space in my carry-on. These soft fleece-lined joggers do just that; plus, they keep you warm even on the coldest of days (they’re designed for weather that dips below freezing) and are treated with a durable water repellent that’s resistant against light rain, snow, and even stains. 

“Warm and comfortable, they aren’t stiff like other weatherproof pants are,” one shopper raved. The high waistband has an adjustable drawstring, and the pockets are deep enough to fit cards or even a phone. Perfect for long-haul flights, skiing, hiking, or just lounging in a chalet on a winter getaway, these joggers will become your daily go-to.

Sorel Waterproof Winter Boots

When I was heading to Swedish Lapland (aka the Arctic) in winter, I quickly realized I didn’t own the most crucial item for the trip — proper snow boots. Sure, this location is more extreme than, say, Aspen, but after finding an insulated pair of water- and wind-proof boots like these from Sorel, I’ve worn them in every cold weather locale around the globe since. The molded rubber tread on the bottom offers enough traction to help trek through light snow and prevent slips on icy streets. 

This is one accessory that should be more utilitarian than fashionable — but my tip? Choose a neutral shade like this that you can pair with either brown or black clothing. With the faux shearling lining, you don’t have to sacrifice too much in terms of style. As one shopper agreed, “The fur lining is super cozy with or without socks and the boots seem very sturdy. I love these boots!” And you’ll want to hurry to buy them since they are on sale for less than $100 right now.

Fleece Button-Down Jacket

In winter, layering is key, and a piece of outerwear that can be worn as a base underneath a heavy jacket or stand on its own is essential.​​ The boyfriend fit is always in style, but this oversized, boxy fleece from Amazon defies gender — it’s an overshirt most people can wear (and ranges in size from Small to XL). The rounded hem and relaxed point collar give it a more structured feel than a simple fleece shirt, so it can be worn over both a crisp white button-down or crewneck cashmere sweater. When paired with tapered or loose-leg jeans, it gives off ’90s vibes — and the look changes entirely with high-waisted, tailored trousers or a suede mini skirt. Score 10 percent off this shirt today.

Long-Sleeve Black Dress

A little black dress goes a long way and can be dressed up or down for just about any occasion. Earning more than 8,500 five-star ratings at Amazon, this belted pencil dress is already a hit this holiday party season. The crew neck shows off a sliver of shoulder adding enough sexiness without being too revealing. Calling it a bodycon dress is somewhat deceiving — it’s not form-fitting or stuck-to-your-skin tight. The dress cinches in just the right place around the hips and below the knee, so it’s a modern version of Audrey Hepburn’s ’50s-style ensembles. Versatile enough to wear to work or as a casual cocktail dress, this capsule piece is an easy one to pack and accessorize for any occasion — plus, you can save room in your suitcase since it already has a built-in belt. 

In winter, I’d wear a pair of sparkly tights and pointed patent leather heels for a night out or cocktail party, while during the day it would be great with suede over-the-knee boots and a camel-colored trench or thicker wool coat. “Bought it for a cruise and only needed to add a silvery scarf and earrings to make the perfect outfit,” raved one shopper. “Flattering and comfortable,”  added another person. And at just $37, you can get a few different colors to switch up the look.

Ribbed Basic Tees

The beauty of basics — and base layers — is that they go a long way. They’re the cornerstone of the French look because they transition with the seasons and can be dressed up or down. These soft-to-the-touch tees are a great example of a wardrobe staple that’ll last years. I have a similar style I bought more than a decade ago, and it doesn’t leave my suitcase in winter. 

The three-pack of slim-fitting tees in black, gray, and white are designed in light, featherweight rib fabric with either a delicate crewneck or winter-appropriate turtleneck that makes them feel more elevated than a simple thermal top. Wear them on their own tucked into boyfriend jeans or wide-leg pants, use them as a base layer in the snow or on a hike for warmth, or make these tees your new loungewear on a ski trip or an overnight flight.

Long Satin Skirt

A slip skirt is a winter wardrobe essential. This one from Amazon is super sophisticated and gives the appearance of being more expensive than it is thanks to the silky look and feel. The long length drapes delicately around the shins and pairs nicely with a variety of footwear, from patent leather booties and white sneakers to more dressed-up stilettos. Choose from 20 different shades and wear it over a bodysuit to show off your waistline or with a tucked-in tee and chunky cardigan if you want a more casual look. Reviewers say that it’s the “perfect satin skirt for any occasion” and “it washes well.” One person also raved, “I’m thrilled with the quality and feel — it looks much more expensive than it is!” Trust me, this investment piece is worth the price tag.

Black Chelsea Boot

The one pair of shoes I continue to resole are my black leather Chelsea boots, since I wear them more than any others in my closet. Chelsea boots aren’t just my winter staple — they’re my year-round go-to for traveling, strolling around town, dining out, and even activities like safari. Few shoes can take you from day to night and match most ensembles and moods, but these ones truly can. 

The rounded toe and chunky heel add a feminine touch and some edge to a shoe that’s typically androgynous, and the lug sole is just as practical as it is trendy (it’s been deemed the street style look this season). There’s really no wrong way to wear them — pull on over tights with a dress or skirt, throw on with jeans or leather pants, or even wear them with more playful looks like a jumpsuit for a holiday soirée.

Button-Down White Long-Sleeve Blouse

There’s something so effortlessly stylish about a white button-down blouse. It can go from feeling formal to the other side of the spectrum — edgy and carefree like you just grabbed your boyfriend’s shirt and styled it to make it your own. Even though this option at Amazon is oversized, you can tuck it into pants and wear a blazer and you’d never know it wasn’t a slim fit. Drape a sweater vest over this button-down, and the look just went from prep school to Parisian street fashion. I even throw a puffer vest on top for a sophisticated version of après-ski attire. Or, you can tuck it into higher-waisted khaki pants with a crocodile-embossed belt for a look that means business but is still playful thanks to rolled-up sleeves and a statement staple like a chunky gold bangle or vintage-style timepiece.

Metallic Sling Bag

It’s not just the holiday season that warrants some sparkle. This style can add a touch of flair to any outfit all season long, and the silver is neutral enough to match anything in your wardrobe. The supple, U-shaped saddle bag satisfies the current western trend and is like wearing a larger, more dressed-up version of a fanny pack (which doesn’t seem to be fading from fashion anytime soon). The adjustable shoulder strap allows you to choose the length so it falls perfectly at hip height, while the interior zip pocket is a great storage spot for essentials like a cardholder or lip balm (that way you don’t have to go digging to find something). 

Easy to transition from day to night, this bag is one that you can wear as easily through an airport while traveling on a winter getaway as well as to a holiday work party. One shopper raved, “It fits so much but is still the perfect small size,” while another said it “looks so chic” and “can be dressed up or down and can be worn everyday or out.” And we agree!

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