What to Pack for Frankfurt & Cologne in December: All You Need for a Warm, Easy Getaway

Frankfurt and Cologne in December offer two incredible winter experiences — glittering Christmas markets, romantic old-town vibes, and riverside walks dusted with snow. But along with the charm comes the chill, so packing the right winter travel gear is a must.

Expect cold weather, festive nights, and plenty of time outdoors exploring cathedrals, shopping streets, and sipping Glühwein under twinkling lights. Smart layering, weather-resistant shoes, and cold-weather accessories will help you enjoy every moment.

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📝 Note: This article is all about what to pack for Frankfurt & Cologne 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 🌦️

December weather in both Frankfurt and Cologne is cold, with possible snow or icy rain. Daytime is chilly, and nights are freezing.

• 🌡️ Average high: 4–6°C / 39–43°F – bundle up!
• ❄️ Average low: -1–2°C / 30–35°F – layers are crucial
• 🌧️ Light rain or snow is likely, especially in Cologne
• 💨 Wind adds an extra chill — windproof gear helps

What to Pack for Frankfurt & Cologne in December

🧳 Luggage & Packing Tools

• Carry-on suitcase – 🧳 sturdy with wheels for winter streets
• Checked bag – 🛄 more room for boots, coats, and shopping
• Duffle bag – 🎽 for flexible day trips or train travel
• Daypack – 🎒 roomy enough for water, layers, and souvenirs
• Packing cubes – 📦 maximize space for thick clothes
• Shoe bags – 👞 keep snowy shoes separate
• Toiletry bag – 🧼 leak-proof and organized
• Document organizer – 📁 travel and ID storage
• Foldable tote – 🛍️ great for Christmas market finds
• Laundry kit – 🧺 for quick refreshes
• Luggage scale – ⚖️ coats and boots add weight
• Lock – 🔒 secure your luggage
• Money belt – 💰 hide cash/passport discreetly
• Quick-dry towel – 🧻 for hostels or spa days
• Neck pillow – 😴 cozy train or plane rides
• Sleep mask – 🛌 better rest during travel

👗 Clothes

• Thermal layers (2–3 sets) – 🔥 essential base for warmth
• Wool sweaters (2–4) – 🧶 warm & perfect for markets
• Long-sleeve shirts (3–5) – 👕 ideal under layers
• Thick winter coat – 🧥 insulated & waterproof recommended
• Fleece or wool cardigan – 🧵 extra indoor warmth
• Jeans and lined trousers (2–3) – 👖 thick fabrics only
• Fleece-lined leggings – 🩳 perfect under skirts or jeans
• Skirt + tights – 👗 winter-style with boots
• Thermal pajamas – 🛏️ for chilly hotel rooms
• Swimsuit – 🩱 for thermal spas (yes, Germany loves them!)
• Cover-up – 🧖‍♀️ spa use or hotel wellness areas
• Underwear (7+) – 👙 warm and breathable
• Bras (3–4) – 🧺 everyday & active options
• Wool socks (7+) – 🧦 thick and cozy
• Tights/fleece leggings – 🧤 add warmth under anything

💆 Skincare

• Cream cleanser – 🧴 protects dry winter skin
• Hydrating toner – 💧 balances skin after cold wind
• Thick moisturizer – 🧴 for face and hands
• SPF – ☀️ still needed even in overcast skies
• Makeup remover – 🧽 gentle cleansing
• Exfoliator – 🛁 keep skin smooth once a week
• Eye cream – 👁️ reduce puffiness & dryness
• Hydration mist – 💦 revive skin midday
• Sheet masks – 😷 soothe after long cold days
• Lip balm – 💋 winter must-have
• Spot treatment – 🎯 just in case

💄 Makeup

• Hydrating foundation – 💄 prevent dryness
• Concealer – 👁️ brighten up cold-season circles
• Setting powder – 🌬️ reduce shine indoors
• Blush – 🌺 natural rosy glow
• Highlighter – ✨ for festive shimmer
• Bronzer – 🌞 add some warmth
• Eyeshadow palette – 🎨 jewel tones & neutrals
• Eyeliner – ✒️ smudge-proof preferred
• Mascara – 👁️ waterproof and long-wear
• Brow gel – 🧴 tidy brows in any weather
• Lipsticks/glosses – 💄 bold or natural for festive days
• Setting spray – ❄️ keep makeup on through cold
• Brushes – 🖌️ compact travel set

💇 Hair Care

• Brush/comb – 💇‍♀️ compact and detangling
• Hair ties & clips – 🧷 secure under hats
• Shampoo/conditioner – 🧴 moisturizing formulas
• Dry shampoo – 🌬️ extend time between washes
• Heat protectant – 🔥 before hot tools
• Frizz serum – 💧 help with hat hair & dryness
• Mini hairdryer – 💨 not always in hotels
• Styling tools – 💁‍♀️ straightener or curler, travel-size
• Accessories – 🎀 clips, headbands, or festive pins

👟 Shoes & Accessories

• Insulated waterproof boots – 🥾 must-have for snow or slush
• Sneakers – 👟 only if dry weather is expected
• Dress boots/shoes – 👠 for evening outings
• Thick wool hat – 🧢 keep your head toasty
• Scarf – 🧣 large and warm for style + insulation
• Gloves (touchscreen) – 🧤 functional and cozy
• Earmuffs or fleece headband – 🎧 protect ears stylishly
• Sunglasses – 🕶️ low sun glare in winter
• Minimal jewelry – 💍 festive but simple
• Watch – ⌚ helpful in outdoor markets
• Anti-theft bag – 👜 markets = crowds
• Umbrella – ☔ light snow or drizzle possible

📑 Documents & Essentials

• Passport + backup copies – 🛂 always essential
• Visa (if needed) – 📄 for non-EU travelers
• ID card – 🪪 for entry to some venues
• Travel insurance – 🏥 print + app backup
• Transport tickets – 🎟️ DB Bahn, FlixTrain, etc.
• Accommodation details – 🏨 print + saved
• Credit cards + cash – 💶 especially for market stalls
• Emergency contacts – 📱 digital & written
• Maps & offline apps – 🗺️ for directions without roaming
• Notebook/pen – 🖊️ journaling or plans
• Wallet – 👛 compact and secure
• Valuables – 💎 keep minimal and locked

🚑 First Aid

• Band-aids – 🩹 for winter blisters
• Cold/flu meds – 🤒 high chance of catching a chill
• Painkillers – 💊 for headaches or soreness
• Tweezers – ✂️ multipurpose tool
• Thermometer – 🌡️ travel-size
• Antiseptic wipes – 🧽 always useful
• Gauze + tape – 🩼 emergency situations
• Mini scissors – ✂️ travel-approved
• Q-tips – 💠 for small clean-ups

🧼 Health & Hygiene

• Prescriptions – 💊 clearly labeled
• Allergy meds – 🌾 for hotel bedding or new foods
• Feminine hygiene – 🩸 pads/tampons/cup
• Sanitizer – ✋ winter = flu season
• Wipes – 🧻 multipurpose must-have
• Toothbrush/paste – 🪥 travel size
• Floss – 🧵 always useful
• Deodorant – 🧼 solid or cream preferred
• Razor – 🪒 with cover
• Nail kit – 💅 small and efficient
• Perfume – 🌸 rollerball or mini spray
• Eye drops – 👁️ wind = dry eyes
• Contacts + solution – 👓 bring extras
• Tissues – 🧻 essential in the cold

📱 Tech & Electronics

• Phone – 📱 with roaming or eSIM
• Charger – 🔌 and backup cable
• Camera – 📷 Cologne Cathedral at night is worth it
• Power bank – 🔋 especially for Christmas market nights
• Plug adapter (Type F) – 🔌 required for Germany
• Headphones – 🎧 for trains or travel
• Offline apps – 🗺️ DB Navigator, Google Maps, etc.
• E-reader – 📚 warm nights with books
• Backup storage/cloud – 💾 for photos
• Waterproof phone case – 📱 protect during rain or snow

🎧 Entertainment

• Books – 📖 for quiet nights or travel
• Podcasts/music – 🎶 festive playlists
• Movies/shows – 📺 downloaded on tablet
• Journal – 📓 for documenting holiday memories
• Games/cards – 🃏 for cozy evenings
• Magazines – 🗞️ perfect for train rides

🎁 Extras

• Snacks – 🍫 chocolate, trail mix, or fruit bars
• Reusable water bottle – 🚰 keeps you hydrated in dry air
• Reusable shopping bag – 🛍️ perfect for market goodies
• Travel detergent – 🧼 for a mid-trip laundry session
• Sewing kit – 🧵 for minor fixes
• Whistle – 📣 solo traveler safety item
• Lint roller – 👔 helpful with wool coats
• Travel blanket – 🛌 for trains or extra warmth
• Shoe deodorizer – 👃 for snow-wet shoes
• Melatonin – 🌙 to help with jet lag

🌍 Travel Tips

• Layer up – 🧥 thermal + sweater + coat = warm & flexible
• Use local trains – 🚆 easy connections between cities
• Check Christmas market hours – 🎄 they vary per city
• Bring cash for markets – 💶 not all accept cards
• Take photos of your bags – 📸 in case of loss
• Confirm all bookings – 🧾 and store offline
• Tell your bank you’re traveling – 🏦 avoid card holds

🛂 Visa Tips

• Check Schengen visa status – 🌍 plan ahead
• Apply early – 📝 allow at least 3–4 weeks
• Bring extra passport photos – 📷 backup for documents
• Proof of onward travel – ✈️ may be requested
• Customs rules – 📦 know what you can bring in
• Printed copies of documents – 🖨️ just in case

⭐ Must-Haves

• Passport & visa – 🛂 non-negotiables
• Travel insurance – 🏥 essential in winter
• Phone + adapter – 📱 stay powered
• Cash + cards – 💳 for flexibility
• Health kit – 🚑 winter = flu season
• Thermal wear – 🔥 base layer is everything
• Offline map/apps – 🗺️ travel smarter
• Reusable bottle – 🚰 eco-friendly & convenient
• Daypack – 🎒 essential for long outdoor days
• Booking confirmations – 🧾 print + save

👍 Good-to-Have

• Steamer – 👔 for wrinkle-free outfits
• Sleep mask + earplugs – 💤 for better rest
• Luggage tags – 🏷️ for fast ID
• SIM/eSIM – 📡 for cheaper data
• Travel blanket – 🛏️ adds warmth
• Extra gloves or socks – 🧤 🧦 always useful
• Foldable tote – 🛍️ extra shopping room