Germanyβs winter charm is in full force in Frankfurt and Cologneβthink twinkling Christmas markets, scenic river views, and snow-dusted rooftops. These two cities offer a magical European winter experience, but with real cold weather that calls for smart packing. Whether youβre walking along the Rhine or sipping mulled wine at a Weihnachtsmarkt, youβll need layers, insulated pieces, and stylish winter staples.
Expect frosty mornings, biting wind, and a mix of overcast skies and sunny breaks. Frankfurt leans modern and business-casual in style, while Cologne offers a more relaxed, artistic vibeβbut both demand practical, warm fashion. The key is comfort, warmth, and versatility.
Hereβs your complete winter packing list for Frankfurt and Cologneβideal for exploring cathedrals, riding trains, enjoying cozy cafes, and dressing smart for festive fun.
πNote: This article is all about what to pack for Frankfurt and Cologne in winter. 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 π¦οΈ
- π‘οΈ Average temps: -1Β°C to 6Β°C (30Β°F to 43Β°F)
- βοΈ Snow is possible, especially in January
- π§οΈ Rain and overcast skies are common
- π Winter markets, cathedral visits, river cruises
What to Pack for Frankfurt & Cologne in Winter
Packing smart will help you make the most of your trip. Hereβs everything you need to bring for a comfortable and stylish adventure.
Carry-On Suitcase / Travel Bag Duffle / Portable Steamer / Packing cubes / Luggage scale / Wireless Noise-Cancelling Headphones / Speaker / Portable Charger / Universal Travel adapter / Compact Hair Dryer / Eye Mask / Waterproof Toiletry Bag Hanging / Zipper Pouch / Water BOTTLE / Liquid I.V. Hydration Vegan
𧳠Luggage & Packing Tools
If you want more options to have everything organized and well packed, take a look at these suggestions.
1. Rolling Backpack / 2. Luggage (large) / 3. Luggage (small) / 4. Toiletry Bag / 5. Beach Bag / 6. Backpack / 7. Packing Cubes
- 𧳠Medium or large suitcase β Durable for cobblestones and snow
- 𧡠Packing cubes β Helps with layering and outfit planning
- π Shoe bags β Separate dirty boots or shoes
- π§Ό Toiletry bag β Waterproof and sectioned
- π Document organizer β IDs, rail tickets, travel insurance
- π Daypack β Weather-resistant for markets and museum days
- π§Ί Laundry bag β For damp socks or thermals
- βοΈ Luggage scale β Gifts and coats add weight fast
- π Lock β For hostels or luggage security
- 𧻠Microfiber towel β Useful if staying in shared accommodations
- ποΈ Neck pillow β Great for long flights or train rides
- π΄ Sleep mask β Especially helpful for early sunrises
π Clothes
- 𧣠Thermal base layers (2β3 sets) β Your best friend in German cold
- π Long-sleeve tops (3β5) β Layering essential
- π§₯ Chunky sweaters (2β3) β Cozy and stylish
- π§₯ Insulated winter coat β Must be windproof and waterproof
- π§₯ Optional puffer or down jacket β Great for layering
- π Jeans or lined trousers (2β3) β Durable and warm
- π Wool or knit dress β Paired with tights for evening outings
- π Activewear β Comfy for trains or layering
- π Warm pajamas β Rooms can get chilly
- π Swimsuit β For saunas or spa visits
- π©² Underwear (daily) β Preferably moisture-wicking
- 𧦠Wool socks (6β7 pairs) β Critical for warmth
- 𧀠Thermal tights β Use under skirts or pants
π Skincare
- 𧴠Hydrating cleanser β For winter skin protection
- π§ͺ Toner β Alcohol-free to avoid dryness
- 𧴠Rich moisturizer β Face and hands need extra hydration
- π SPF β Even in the cold, sun can be strong
- π§Ό Makeup remover β Wipes or balm form
- 𧽠Gentle exfoliator β 1β2x per week max
- ποΈ Eye cream β Combat dry air fatigue
- π¦ Facial mist β Midday hydration on the go
- π· Hydrating sheet masks β Treat dry skin after flights
- π Lip balm β Youβll reapply constantly
- π― Spot treatment β For unexpected breakouts
π Makeup
- π Hydrating foundation or BB cream β Adds glow in cold air
- π³οΈ Concealer β Brighten under eyes or redness
- π§Ό Powder β Light layer to reduce shine indoors
- πΈ Cream blush β Keeps a dewy look
- β¨ Highlighter β Enhances low-light selfies
- π Bronzer β Optional warmth for pale winter skin
- π¨ Neutral eyeshadow palette β Earthy and versatile
- βοΈ Waterproof eyeliner β In case of sleet or tears (of joy)
- ποΈ Mascara β Weather-resistant formula
- π Brow gel β Tame brows under beanies
- π Lipsticks + balm β Add color and hydration
- π¦ Setting spray β Optional for long city days
- ποΈ Compact brush kit β Travel-friendly
π Hair Care
- ποΈ Anti-static brush or comb β Prevent winter frizz
- πͺ’ Hair ties + clips β Keep things tidy
- 𧴠Shampoo + conditioner β Moisturizing versions
- π¬οΈ Dry shampoo β Useful between washes
- π₯ Heat protectant spray β If styling
- π Leave-in conditioner or serum β Add shine and softness
- π¨ Travel hairdryer β Double-check if hotels provide it
- π§ Curling iron or straightener β Optional for style
- π§ Hair oil β For dry ends and frizz control
- π Winter-friendly accessories β Beanie, clips, scrunchies
π Shoes & Accessories
- π₯Ύ Waterproof boots β Warm, lined, and stylish
- π Sneakers β For drier, milder days
- π₯Ώ Dress boots or shoes β For museums, dinners
- 𧣠Wool or cashmere scarf β Warmth + fashion
- 𧀠Insulated gloves β Touchscreen-friendly
- π© Knit beanie or hat β Must-have for warmth
- πΆοΈ Sunglasses β Glare from snow or sun
- π Minimal jewelry β Donβt overpack
- β Watch β For train schedules
- π Crossbody bag β Secure and easy to carry
- π Compact umbrella β Cologne gets rainy
π Documents & Essentials
- π Passport + copies β Always keep a backup
- π Visa (if required) β Germany is in the Schengen zone
- π©Ί Travel insurance β Required by some Schengen rules
- π« Printed bookings β Trains, hotels, activities
- πΊοΈ Offline maps + Deutsche Bahn app β For train schedules
- π³ Credit/debit cards + euros β Many places are cash-friendly
- π Emergency contact list β Printed and in phone
- π§Ύ Pouch for receipts or important docs
- ποΈ Pen + notebook β Travel notes or journaling
- π RFID wallet β Protect cards
- π Keep valuables in your carry-on
π First Aid
- π©Ή Blister pads β Boots + walking = friction
- 𧻠Disinfectant wipes β For hands or cuts
- π©Ί Mini first aid kit β Cold meds, painkillers, bandages
- π©Έ Feminine hygiene products β Bring your preferred brand
- βοΈ Tweezers + scissors β TSA-safe sizes
- π‘οΈ Thermometer β Optional but smart
- 𧴠Cotton pads + Q-tips β Multi-use
π§Ό Health & Hygiene
- π Prescription meds β With a copy of the script
- π· Cold medicine β Common with the weather
- π’ Motion sickness pills β For river cruises
- π Vitamins β Immunity boost
- π§Ό Hand sanitizer β Use it often
- 𧻠Wet wipes β For everything
- β€οΈ Contraceptives β Bring your own supply
- ποΈ Eye drops β Cold air + heaters = dry eyes
- πͺ Mirror β Compact and useful
- πͺ₯ Toothbrush + toothpaste β Essentials
- 𧡠Floss β Travel-friendly
- 𧴠Deodorant β Choose solid for travel
- πͺ Razor β With travel cover
- π Nail file or clipper β Quick fixes
- πΈ Perfume β Roll-on or mini spray
- 𧻠Pocket tissues β Must-have for cold noses
π± Tech & Electronics
- π± Phone β With transit and map apps installed
- π» Tablet or laptop β Optional for work or streaming
- π· Camera β Great photo ops everywhere
- π Chargers β Phone, camera, power bank
- π Power bank β Days out can drain battery
- π Cable case β Keep cords neat
- π EU plug adapter β Germany uses Type C/F
- π½ USB or cloud backup β For photos/docs
- πΊοΈ Offline Google Maps β Very useful
- πΆ eSIM/SIM β For affordable data
- π E-reader β Cozy train reads
- π§ Headphones β Music, podcasts, calls
- π± Waterproof pouch β Snow/rain protection
π§ Entertainment
- π Books β Historical fiction or Germany-themed
- π¬ Downloaded shows β Netflix on the train
- π§ Podcasts β German culture or true crime?
- π Journal β Track your travels
- π² Small games β Perfect for trains or downtime
- π° Magazines β Easy cafΓ© reads
π Extras
- π₯¨ Snacks β Nuts, granola bars, or local treats
- π§ Insulated water bottle β Hot or cold drinks
- ποΈ Reusable shopping bag β For Christmas markets!
- π§Ό Travel detergent β For sink laundry
- 𧡠Sewing kit β Winter wear can snag
- π£ Safety whistle β Solo travelers
- 𧽠Lint roller β Dark coats = visible lint
- π¦Ά Footrest β Flight or train comfort
- π Boot deodorizer β After long walking days
- π Sleep aid β For adjusting to jet lag
π Travel Tips
- π§₯ Wear bulky items on the plane to save space
- ποΈ Carry an extra bag for market purchases
- π² Download Deutsche Bahn + local transit apps
- π Use local trains to explore nearby towns
- πΈ Take a photo of your luggage in case itβs lost
- π¦ Alert your bank to avoid card blocks abroad
π Visa Tips
- π Check Schengen rules for your passport
- π¨οΈ Bring printed bookings and return ticket
- πΌοΈ Carry spare passport photos
- ποΈ Show proof of funds if requested
- π Know customs limits for souvenirs
β Must-Haves
- π Passport + ID
- π§₯ Warm winter coat
- π₯Ύ Waterproof boots
- 𧀠Gloves + hat + scarf
- π± Phone + charger + adapter
- π³ Cards + cash (euros)
- π Meds + insurance
- π Day bag
- π§ Water bottle
- 𧦠Wool socks
π Good-to-Have
- π§Ί Steamer or wrinkle spray
- π΄ Sleep mask + earplugs
- π§ Noise-canceling headphones
- 𧣠Blanket scarf
- 𦴠Neck pillow
- π·οΈ Luggage tag
- π Extra umbrella
- πΆ Local SIM or eSIM
- ποΈ Extra tote for shopping
