19 Winter Picks for On-the-go Gals
By Jenny Willden
Traveling in the year’s coldest, darkest season need not be miserable. Brighten your experience with amazing gear picks that make the journey easier! Add these to your last-minute Christmas gift list or buy them for frequent-flying friends.
Apparel and Footwear
Tilley Aviator Hat
No, the Aviator doesn’t endow you with the ability to pilot an aircraft, but it will protect you from harsh winter conditions. This ultra-warm hat is made of 100% wool and genuine shearling to protect your head and ears. Wear it with flaps up for a trendy, fashionable look, or with flaps down when the cold sets in. Guaranteed for life against wear or loss! $139 tilley.com
Aventura Aurora Infinity Scarf
A good scarf is a travel staple, and this versatile, knit infinity version is our favorite! Use it to dress up an outfit, keep warm, or cushion your head on a long flight or train ride. $49 aventuraclothing.com
Isis Chantilly Long Jane
Fashion-forward baselayers do double duty when worn under ski wear and as stylish tights paired with a sweater dress and boots. Matching top also available. $59
Sierra Designs DriDown Gnar Lite
The revolution in down is here. This DriDown-treated jacket stays dry ten times longer than traditional down and dries 33% faster when wet. You’ll stay toasty, even in snowstorms. Wear it skiing, camping, heck, sleep in it. It’s made for everything! Compresses small for easier packing. $229 sierradesigns.com
Athleta Flashpack Vest
Keep your core warm and mix up your outfits with this fitted, PrimaLoft®-insulated vest. Takes up less space than a coat and looks great in the mountains or the city. Also available as a jacket. $118 athleta.com
Merrell Aubrey Coat
Stylish and functional, this coat is the only one you’ll need on a winter getaway. The soft, waterproof fabric is dry in a downpour while Opti-Warm™ insulation provides warmth without the marshmallow effect. $199 merrell.com
MeCo Lauren Coat
If your travels take you to the slopes and out on the town, bring just this coat. Removable faux fur on the hood dresses it up and 20K waterproof, breathable fabric ensures you’ll stay dry. You can’t beat the warmth of Primaloft insulation and a heat-reflective lining!
Point6 Compression Ultralight Socks
Fight in-fight swelling and muscle fatigue with graduated compression socks. The Merino wool wicks moisture away and prevents stinky feet. $38 point6.com
Chaco Mara Waterproof Boots
Save your feet from puddles and cold with this gorgeous waterproof leather boot. Chaco’s slimmed down LUVSEAT™ platform doesn’t disappoint for comfort and support on endless sightseeing days. This enviable style looks great with any outfit. $195 Chaco
Merrell Captiva High Boot
Classy and functional, this low-heeled, waterproof leather boot is sure to be your new favorite. The antimicrobial sole resists odor and a memory foam footbed contours to your unique foot shape. Side buttons add a feminine touch. $200 merrell.com
Patagonia Tin Shed Tall Waterproof Boots
Excels in the woods or in a city. The Tin Shed is built with a comfort chamber for support on hard surfaces with natural thermal protection for cold climates. $230 patagonia.com
Luggage
Overland Avery Bag
Like wine and cheese, a well-designed travel purse with the style of your everyday bag is a perfect pairing. Built with useful features like a front organizer pocket, zip security pocket for cash and passports, fleece-lined mobile phone pouch, and key ring with plenty of space for essential travel documents. $35 rei.com
Lug Flip-top Toiletry Case
Buy less and use just one toiletry bag for any getaway with the modular Flip-top. Features two sections that can be used separately or zipped together for extra space. The smaller top is with built-in brush holders is ideal for makeup while the larger compartment is best for big bottles. A wipeable interior makes spill clean up quick! $44 luglife.com
Dakine Over Under 49L Bag
The ideal bag for trips where you bring home more than you take. Unexpanded, the size is a legal carry-on for most airlines, but you can increase the size to 69L by unzipping an expandable pocket if you go crazy buying souvenirs. Also available for men if you and your sweetie like to match! $165 dakine.com
Osprey Ozone 22” Carry-on
Breeze through security with this efficient, lightweight rolling carry-on. The minimalist design organizes valuable documents and clothing without the weight of traditional bags. A rear zippered pouch lets you easily access essentials, and the smooth rolling wheels and ergonmic handle offer great mobility. Larger sizes also available. $229 ospreypacks.com
Accessories
Lug Snuz Sak
Uncomfortable flights are for amateurs. Get Lug’s u-shaped Snuz Sak to support your head for in-flight naps. To use, just remove the blanket, inflate the pillow, slip it into the soft cover, and enjoy hours of cozy rest. You’ll reach your destination without counting a single sheep! $30 luglife.com
Systm Chisel iPhone Cases
Tough on the outside and soft on the inside, Systm cases employ a special PORON XRD exreme impact exterior with rubber interior to absorb shock after dropping. The last thing you need on a trip is a broken phone, and this is an affordable option to safeguard your investment. Available in three levels of protection. $35 systm.com
PurifiCup
Nothing ruins a trip quicker than a parasite. Don’t take any chances and use this quick, simple purifier to clean your water while killing 500 types of bacteria with Nano Silver Technology. Use code SG20% to save 20% on your purchase. Lightweight and gravity-powered for use anywhere. Tap and Natural water versions available. $50 Tap, $60 Natural purificup.com
Hitcase Pro
Capture every hard-charging moment of your adventures with this rugged, waterproof, mountable case that turns your iPhone into an action sports camera. The case protects your phone and adds a wide-angle lens to catch all the action. Mount to a bike, surfboard, or snowboard to film your best moments as the happen. Pair it with the Vidometer app from iTunes and overlay it on your video to show how fast, high, and g-forces sustained. Available for 4/4s with 5 version coming soon. $130 hitcase.com