After planning and saving for months, you’ve finally booked your holiday vacation to see your grandparents in Minnesota. While you are excited to see them and other family members who live in the area, you know you’re not exactly traveling during the warmest part of the year.

Fortunately, as the saying goes, being forewarned is being forearmed. Since you know the weather in December in Minneapolis will be frigid, you can start taking steps now to ensure you’re prepared for your getaway with the proper apparel and gear.

With all this in mind, consider the following packing tips to be prepared and handle traveling to a frigid destination:

1. Know That Thermals are Your Friend

You might envision thermal underwear as something your beloved grandma in Minnesota would wear, but this type of all-age — and much-needed — clothing item can be quite useful when traveling to a cold climate. Indeed, thermals offer a great way to stay warm without having to pack a ton of bulky clothing. 

Of course, you can still wear your favorite stylish long-sleeved shirt or light sweater for a day trip with your family in Minnesota if you layer a pair of thermals underneath. You’ll also want to wear a jacket while outside, but you can still look fashionable when stopping to grab a bite to eat.

2. Spring for a Heavy Winter Jacket

You’ll definitely need a dependable winter jacket that will keep you warm during any type of winter traveling. But instead of looking for the biggest and bulkiest one you can find, opt for one that’s more breathable and which offers some key features. 

For instance, if you’re in the market for a new jacket for your winter getaway, opt for a puffer jacket that’s made from stretchy, water-resistant fabric and which offers light insulation. If it comes with a light hood, all the better. Of course, you can still wear your favorite beanie to keep your head warm, but a water-resistant hood on your jacket will protect you even more from any cold rain or snow. 

Additionally, a jacket made from breathable fabric will also help ensure you won’t overheat while out and about shopping or sightseeing. Even while wearing a puffer jacket, you can still step into a café for a quick cup of coffee or into a shop for some souvenirs and not feel like you’re overheating after five minutes.

3. Add Cold-Weather Accessories to the Suitcase

If you’re not used to living in a cold climate, you might understandably forget some of the extra accessories that will keep you warm during your vacation. For instance, be sure to pack at least one pair of gloves, and try to find a style that will allow you to use your smartphone without having to remove them first.

If your feet and/or hands tend to get cold rather quickly, then make sure to stock up on some hand and toe warmers, which you can tuck into your gloves or socks as needed to stay toasty and comfortable. A travel umbrella is also a great investment for your trip, so find one that folds up rather easily and which won’t take up a lot of room in your suitcase.

Enjoy Your Stay with Your Grandparents

Before you know it, you’ll be in your grandparents’ warm home enjoying some delicious holiday food and plenty of visiting. By planning ahead to pack for your cold weather vacation, you’ll no doubt enjoy your trip even more knowing you won’t be shivering your way through a shopping excursion or sightseeing adventure. With the combination of some thermals; a warm, breathable jacket; and the right accessories, you can take on the harshest weather Minnesota has to offer with no worries.