I’ve come up with a list of plus size packing tips for winter because being a plus size traveler is a challenge no matter the season! Add to that trying to pack in a carry-on and you might run into some trouble…or end up adding a checked bag! Besides being a budget traveler, I also highly dislike the idea of lugging a bunch of stuff around an airport, through public transport to a city. Not my idea of fun. So, I stick to my regular backpack and carry-on suitcase.

I’ve done a fair bit of winter travel, so I finally feel good putting together a helpful list of plus size packing tips for winter!

Reduce, Reuse, Recycle

It’s simple: the more you can reuse items, the less you’ll need to bring, the smaller your luggage! The only thing I generally don’t reuse on trips is underwear. I would, but I usually stay in hostels where I don’t do laundry. The random times I’ve stayed in an Airbnb or hotel where I was with family, I’ve hand-washed undies so I could re-wear them. Otherwise, plan on mixing and matching. You can even reuse socks if you hand wash them, totally up to you. I will say I can’t quite reuse jeans and pants as much as I’d like, so I still overpack a bit on this front.

Layer. Like the Beautiful Cake You Are.

Layering is key. This isn’t news, but you have to be mindful of your layers because they add up quick. Here is where fabrics and quality really make a difference. I used to pack regular tank tops from Primark, H&M, and Old Navy. They’re great for layering in warmer weather, but you need something a little stronger for true winter climates. There are plenty of brands and materials, but I’ve recently discovered Uniqlo’s Heattech line which is thermal clothing that comes in two different levels of warmth. During a sale, I bought two layering tank tops, leggings, and a long sleeve shirt and WOW. Life changers. You remember the waffle-patterned thermals you had to wear as a little kid going skiing? They’re like that, but sleek, thin, and lightweight (and not waffle-patterned, obviously!) So yes. I bring these and can wear them up to three times before washing.

Be Strategic About Shoe Choice

Choose shoes strategically. Even though you may end up wearing one pair the whole time, bring an alternate pair. But that’s it. Just two pairs. Keep in mind what the weather will be like. Who wants to wear sneakers that leave their ankles exposed to the cold when they have two pairs of ankle-warming boots?! Be realistic here too: people recommended wool-lined tights for me for under my pants. Had I bought those I would’ve sweat anytime I walked indoors. Instead, I wore regular opaque tights: thick enough to keep my body heat in, thin enough to keep me from dying when inside a museum or restaurant. Of course, I’m talking city travel. If you’re hiking and doing more of that, my recommendation would be different.

Last Plus Size Packing Tip: Need More Room?

Need more room? Leave toiletries behind. I’m willing to bet wherever you’re going also sells travel-size body wash, shampoo, and conditioner. Also, check what amenities are offered wherever you’re staying. Their hair dryer may not be as great as yours, but it’ll do the job.

Looking for more plus size packing tips? You can find my summer tips here! I’ve got more plus size lifestyle stuff here!

Pin for later:

• 

• 

•