The perfect time for a European getaway? Don’t all yell “winter” at once! It’s true, Europe isn’t exactly known for its’ ideal winter weather but the Christmas season is celebrated somewhat over the top here and who doesn’t love a little sprinkle of snow to embrace the festivities! Here are the four essential categories for packing your suitcase and jet setting off for the holiday season : 

SHOES : Any time you’re off to explore Europe, you need comfortable shoes…first off, there is loads of walking involved! Like seriously, more than you’d expect. So grab those comfortable booties or broken in sneakers. Also, if space allows and depending on the length of  your holiday, bring along a few pairs to alternate so you’d develop blisters from the same pressures! Next, you will probably meet all the elements…rain, snow, sleet but also cobblestones, puddles, and mud. Bring along shoes that can handle it and keep up with your wanderings!

OUTERWEAR : depending on where you’re headed, you need to be prepared for the cold, the frigid cold. My go-to for the worst of the worst cold days is my Patagonia 3 in 1 jacket–I love that it is still a little form fitting even with all the layers! It is basically two jackets in one, that you can wear separately or together (hence the 3 in 1). I think having a basic rain repellant jacket is great too for the days when it’s not too terribly cold!

ACCESSORIES : when you’re spending a lot of time outdoors in the winter, it feels like you’re wearing the same outfit all day, every day : a jacket! The best way to add some versatility to your look is to accessorize….a few unique pieces go a long way and barely take up any luggage space!

LAYERS : the more the better! Besides being a great way to keep warm, it allows you to mix and match fewer pieces to make more outfits! Also, on the more mild weather days, you can layer up and maybe even skip that oversized jacket (gasp!).

What are your suitcase essentials for an European Christmas escape?