Boston Winter Packing List for December: The Ultimate Guide to Surviving (and Thriving) in the Cold

Boston in December is a blend of icy sidewalks, colonial charm, and festive spirit. You’ll encounter freezing temps, wind tunnels between buildings, and holiday magic everywhere—from Beacon Hill’s lights to the Boston Common’s snowy trees. Dressing warm is a survival tactic.

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This historic New England city is known for its intense winter weather. Expect snow, freezing rain, and harsh winds off the harbor. But don’t worry—with the right packing list, you’ll stay cozy while exploring Boston’s streets, museums, and markets.

📝Note: This article is all about what to pack for Boston in winter in December. Here you can find a huge and comprehensive list. Feel free to adapt to your needs, and share your tips in the comments!

Weather & Travel Context 🌦️

• ❄️ Average temperatures: -4°C to 5°C (25°F to 41°F).
• 🌬️ Wind chill: Feels colder, especially near the waterfront.
• 🌨️ Snow: Common in December, with icy sidewalks and slushy streets.

What to Pack for Boston in Winter in December

🧳 Luggage & Packing Tools

• 🧳 Hard-shell suitcase – Handles snow and sidewalk slush.
• 🎒 Warm-lined daypack – Great for museum visits or daily outings.
• 🧩 Packing cubes – Keep cold-weather layers neat and separate.
• 👟 Shoe bags – Store wet boots post-walks.
• 🧼 Toiletry kit – Include hydrating and cold-weather skincare.
• 📂 Travel document folder – Keep tickets, ID, and itinerary safe.
• 👜 Foldable tote – Use for groceries or holiday shopping.
• 🧺 Laundry bag – Separate snowy, damp clothes easily.
• ⚖️ Luggage scale – Boston souvenirs can add weight fast.
• 🔒 TSA lock – For security on trains, flights, or hotels.
• 🎒 Zipper pouch – Organize hand warmers, masks, chapstick.
• 🧻 Quick-dry towel – Handy for hostels, gyms, or emergencies.
• 💤 Neck pillow – For winter flight delays or long drives.
• 😴 Sleep mask – Hotel blackout curtains aren’t always enough.

👗 Clothes

• 👕 Thermal base layers (3-5) – A necessity in Boston’s cold.
• 🧥 Thick wool or down coat – Windproof and warm is key.
• 🧥 Sweaters (2-3) – Wool or fleece for serious warmth.
• 👖 Thermal-lined leggings – Under jeans or on their own.
• 👖 Insulated jeans or pants (2-3) – Cold-resistant materials win.
• 🧣 Heavy scarf – Oversized = extra warmth and style.
• 🧤 Waterproof gloves – Regular gloves won’t cut it here.
• 🧦 Wool socks (6+) – Dry and insulated for snow walks.
• 🧢 Knit beanie – A winter must-have in Boston winds.
• 👘 Warm pajamas – Boston buildings can run cold at night.
• 🩲 Underwear (5-7) – Layering starts with good basics.
• 🧴 Bras – Include sports bras if you’re walking a lot.
• 👗 Nice outfit – For indoor events or dinners out.
• 👙 Swimsuit – Yes, for hotel hot tubs or spas.

💆 Skincare

• 🧼 Hydrating cleanser – Fight winter dryness and pollution.
• 💦 Toner – Helps retain moisture in harsh cold.
• 🧴 Rich moisturizer – Use morning and night.
• 🧴 SPF 30 – Sun + snow glare is still damaging.
• 🧽 Gentle remover – For makeup + city grime.
• 🧴 Exfoliator – Use once a week max.
• 👁️ Eye cream – Prevent dry under-eye areas.
• 🌫️ Facial mist – Midday hydration boost.
• 🎭 Sheet masks (2-3) – Replenish after cold exposure.
• 💄 Lip balm (x2) – You’ll use more than you think.
• 💊 Spot treatment – Breakouts don’t hibernate.

💄 Makeup

• 🧴 Moisturizing primer – Prep dry winter skin.
• 🖌️ Concealer – Tackle undereye circles and redness.
• 🧼 Pressed powder – Reduce wind-blown shine.
• 💗 Cream blush – Adds warmth to winter skin.
• ✨ Highlighter – Natural glow for indoor photos.
• 🟤 Bronzer – Combat pale winter tones.
• 🎨 Eye palette – Neutrals + shimmer for evenings.
• ✒️ Waterproof eyeliner – Great in snow or tears (of joy!).
• 👁️ Volumizing mascara – Hello, winter lashes.
• 🧴 Brow gel – Keep brows in place against the wind.
• 💄 Lip color – Rich tones look great against the snow.
• 💦 Setting spray – Helps everything hold in cold/dry air.
• 🖌️ Brushes – Essentials only, travel size.

💇 Hair Care

• 💇 Brush/comb – Detangle after hats or hoods.
• 🧷 Hair ties – Keep hair managed in the wind.
• 🧴 Moisturizing shampoo/conditioner – Prevent dryness.
• 🌬️ Dry shampoo – Useful between wash days.
• 🔥 Heat protectant – Especially for flat iron use.
• 🧴 Leave-in cream – Tame flyaways from static.
• 💨 Compact dryer – Useful if your stay doesn’t provide one.
• 🪞 Flat iron or curler – Optional for events/dinners.
• 💧 Hair oil – Protect against brittle winter strands.
• 🎀 Clips + headbands – For snowy bad hair days.

👟 Shoes & Accessories

• 🥾 Insulated waterproof boots – You *will* meet snow.
• 👟 Sneakers – For dry city days and museums.
• 🥿 Flats or boots – Dress up but still warm.
• 🧤 Touchscreen gloves – Stay warm while navigating.
• 🧢 Wool hat or thermal beanie – A necessity, not an accessory.
• 🧣 Thick scarf – Blocks wind like a pro.
• 🕶️ Sunglasses – Glare from snow is real.
• 👜 Crossbody or anti-theft bag – Keep it secure and compact.
• ☂️ Umbrella – For sleet or surprise snow showers.
• ⌚ Watch – Cold drains phone battery fast.
• 💍 Simple jewelry – Avoid anything fiddly in gloves.

📑 Documents & Essentials

• 🛂 ID or passport – Needed for flights and hotels.
• 📄 Insurance – Travel + health, especially in icy weather.
• 💳 Credit/debit cards – Keep one in a secure place.
• 🗺️ Offline map – GPS may struggle in bad weather.
• 🖊️ Pen – For notes, check-ins, or customs forms.
• 📒 Notebook – For ideas, memories, or journaling.

🚑 First Aid

• 🩹 Blister patches – From long walks or wet socks.
• 🧻 Antiseptic wipes – Clean hands or small cuts.
• 💊 Painkillers – Cold headaches or soreness.
• 🌡️ Thermometer – Stay alert for cold/flu.
• ✂️ Mini scissors – For tags, first aid, or thread pulls.
• 🧽 Q-tips/cotton pads – Small and useful daily.

🧼 Health & Hygiene

• 💊 Prescriptions – Always carry extra doses.
• 💢 Cold + flu meds – Winter season is real.
• 🤧 Allergy tabs – Indoor dust and cold air triggers.
• 💊 Vitamins – Support your immune system.
• 🧴 Sanitizer – City travel = germ exposure.
• 🧻 Pocket tissues – Essential in cold and wind.
• 🧽 Feminine hygiene – Bring your usuals.
• 🪥 Toothbrush + paste – Fresh and winter-ready.
• 🪒 Razor – If spa or hot tub included in your stay.
• 🌬️ Perfume or freshening mist – Winter coats trap odors.

📱 Tech & Electronics

• 📱 Phone – Your map, guide, and camera.
• 🔋 Power bank – Cold drains battery fast.
• 🔌 Chargers + U.S. plugs – Bring all relevant cables.
• 📸 Camera – Optional but great for snowy Boston.
• 💻 Laptop or tablet – For long stays or work.
• 🎧 Headphones – For flights or museum audio tours.
• 📶 Local SIM or roaming plan – Stay connected in storms.

🎧 Entertainment

• 📖 Book or Kindle – Curl up after a snowy walk.
• 🎧 Podcasts or playlists – For commuting or relaxing.
• 📝 Journal – Boston’s history is inspiring to write about.
• 🎲 Small game or deck of cards – Cozy nights in.

🎁 Extras

• 🍫 Snacks – Especially for train rides or long walks.
• 💧 Insulated water bottle – Keep drinks hot or cold.
• 🛍️ Shopping tote – Bookstores, markets, gift shops.
• 🧺 Laundry detergent sheets – For longer winter stays.
• 🧵 Sewing kit – For coats or glove repairs.
• 🧦 Foot warmers – Ideal for walking tours.
• 🧼 Boot spray – Waterproof your footwear before snowstorms.

🌍 Travel Tips

• ❄️ Dress in layers—it’s freezing outside and hot indoors.
• 🚇 Download the MBTA app for public transport updates.
• 📸 Check hours—some museums and shops have winter schedules.
• 💳 Keep a backup card in your coat or boot—just in case.
• ☃️ Try ice skating on Frog Pond—but bring gloves!

🛂 Visa Tips

• 📄 ESTA or visa needed for non-U.S. visitors.
• 📅 Bring printed hotel and flight details.
• 📸 Carry photo ID—some events require it.
• 🛃 Declare snacks or meds if needed—customs in the U.S. can be strict.

⭐ Must-Haves

• 🛂 Passport or ID + visa.
• 🧥 Heavy winter coat + gloves + scarf.
• 👢 Waterproof boots + wool socks.
• 📱 Phone + power bank + charger.
• 🧴 Moisturizer, SPF, lip balm.
• 👜 Day bag or crossbody purse.

👍 Good-to-Have

• 🧦 Backup gloves + hat.
• 💤 Travel blanket or thermal scarf.
• 🔖 Foldable tote for books or groceries.
• 🎧 Noise-canceling headphones for flights or snowplows.