What to Pack for a Winter Adventure in Germany in December

Germany in December is magical — twinkling Christmas markets, snow-dusted rooftops, and cozy evenings with mulled wine. But be warned: it’s cold, sometimes freezing, and usually damp. Smart packing ensures you’re warm, dry, and ready for outdoor sightseeing or festive nights.

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This is not the time to under-pack. Think thermal layers, waterproof boots, and skincare that fights winter dryness. And with limited daylight hours, plan ahead to get the most out of your trip.

📝 Note: This article is all about what to pack for Germany 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 highs: -2°C to 5°C (28°F to 41°F)
• ❄️ Nights below freezing, especially in southern & central Germany
• 🌨️ Snow likely in Bavaria, the Alps, and elevated areas
• 🌧️ Rain and sleet common in the north and west

What to Pack for Germany in December

🧳 Luggage & Packing Tools

• 🧳 Hard-shell suitcase – Handles snow, protects contents
• 🎒 Water-resistant daypack – Perfect for daily walks and market visits
• 🧼 Packing cubes – Separate winter layers easily
• 👟 Shoe bags – Keep muddy boots away from your clothes
• 🪥 Toiletry kit – Leakproof and compact
• 📁 Document organizer – Keeps tickets and ID safe
• 👜 Foldable shopping tote – Great for market purchases
• 🧺 Travel laundry bag – Holds worn thermals
• ⚖️ Luggage scale – No overweight surprises
• 🔒 TSA-approved lock – For added security
• 🪙 Small pouch – For coins, keys, earbuds
• 🛁 Microfiber towel – Dries quickly if needed
• 🛏️ Neck pillow – For long train or bus rides
• 😴 Sleep mask – Winter nights are long, but hotels can be bright

👗 Clothes

• 🧥 Thermal base layers (2–3 sets) – Your cold-weather foundation
• 👕 Long-sleeve tops (3–4) – For layering
• 🧥 Wool sweaters (2) – Insulating and stylish
• 🧥 Insulated coat – Preferably waterproof and windproof
• 🧥 Fleece or down mid-layer – Optional, but helpful in snow
• 👖 Jeans or warm trousers (2–3) – Durable and stylish
• 🧦 Thermal leggings (2) – Layer under dresses or pants
• 👗 Warm dress/skirt (1–2) – Wear with tights and boots
• 🛌 Pajamas (1–2 sets) – Fleece or flannel recommended
• 👙 Swimsuit – If hotel has spa or sauna
• 🩲 Underwear (7+) – Quick-dry fabric ideal
• 👙 Bras (2–3) – Everyday and seamless options
• 🧦 Wool socks (6–7 pairs) – Thick, moisture-wicking
• 🧦 Tights (2 pairs) – For layering with dresses or under jeans

💆 Skincare

• 🧼 Hydrating cleanser – Prevent winter dryness
• 💧 Toner – Adds extra moisture
• 🧴 Rich moisturizer – Cold-weather essential
• 🌞 Sunscreen – Still needed for winter UV
• 🧽 Makeup remover – Gentle micellar water
• 🧼 Exfoliator – 1–2 times weekly
• 👁️ Eye cream – For dryness and puffiness
• 💦 Face mist – Midday hydration
• 😴 Sheet masks – Recovery from long travel days
• 💋 Lip balm – Must-have for cold wind
• 🔴 Spot treatment – For unexpected breakouts

💄 Makeup

• 💄 Foundation – Hydrating or luminous finish
• 🖌️ Concealer – For dark circles and redness
• 🧽 Setting powder – Use lightly to avoid dryness
• 🌸 Cream blush – Looks fresh in winter
• ✨ Highlighter – Adds glow on gray days
• 🌞 Bronzer – Subtle warmth
• 🎨 Eyeshadow palette – Neutrals and warm tones
• ✏️ Eyeliner – Waterproof if possible
• 👁️ Mascara – Smudge-proof is best
• 🧴 Brow gel – Keeps brows neat in the wind
• 💋 Lip color – Hydrating lip tint or balm
• 💨 Setting spray – Helps makeup stay put
• 🖌️ Travel brush set – Compact and useful

💇 Hair Care

• 🪮 Compact brush or comb – Detangles and smooths
• 🪢 Hair ties/clips – Secure in windy weather
• 🧴 Shampoo/conditioner – Hydrating formula
• 💨 Dry shampoo – Saves time on cold mornings
• 🔥 Heat protectant – If using styling tools
• 💇 Styling cream – Tames frizz and flyaways
• 💨 Mini hair dryer – Dual voltage preferred
• 💇 Flat iron or curling wand – One, not both
• 💧 Hair serum – Adds shine and reduces dryness
• 🎀 Accessories – Barrettes, pins, or clips

👟 Shoes & Accessories

• 👢 Waterproof boots – Stylish and snow-ready
• 👟 Sneakers – Only if forecast is dry
• 🥿 Flats or dress shoes – For indoor dinners
• 🧤 Gloves – Insulated and touchscreen-friendly
• 🧣 Scarf – Wool or cashmere for warmth
• 🎩 Beanie or winter hat – Covers ears
• 🕶️ Sunglasses – For sunny, snowy days
• 💍 Minimal jewelry – Simple and safe
• 👜 Crossbody bag – Secure and easy to carry
• ☔ Umbrella – Compact and windproof

📑 Documents & Essentials

• 🛂 Passport + copies – Keep digital and printed
• 📄 Visa (if needed) – Schengen rules apply
• 🆔 National ID – In case required
• 🧾 Travel insurance – Print & phone copy
• 🎟️ Tickets – Flights, trains, attractions
• 📆 Itinerary – With accommodation & activities
• 💳 Credit/debit cards – Plus euro cash
• 📱 Emergency contacts – Digital + written
• 🗺️ Offline maps – In case of signal loss
• 🖊️ Notebook + pen – Jot notes or expenses
• 👛 Wallet – Small but secure
• 💎 Valuables – Keep on your person

🚑 First Aid

• 🩹 Band-aids – Blisters and small cuts
• 🧻 Alcohol wipes – Disinfecting and cleaning
• 🩼 Gauze pads – Minor wounds
• 📎 Medical tape – Secures gauze
• 📏 Thermometer – For checking fever
• ✂️ Scissors – In checked baggage
• 🪥 Q-tips – Useful and compact

🧼 Health & Hygiene

• 💊 Prescription meds – In labeled packaging
• 💊 Painkillers – Ibuprofen, paracetamol
• 🌸 Allergy meds – Antihistamines
• 🌊 Motion sickness pills – If needed
• 💊 Vitamins – Optional but helpful
• 🩸 Feminine hygiene – Enough for trip
• 🧴 Hand sanitizer – Use often
• 🧻 Wet wipes – Multi-use
• 🦟 Bug spray – Rare, but good in forests
• 🩹 Contraceptives – Bring what you prefer
• 👁️ Eye drops – Dry indoor heat relief
• 👓 Contacts + glasses – Carry both
• 🪞 Mirror – Compact and unbreakable
• 🪥 Toothbrush + paste – Travel size
• 🧵 Floss – Compact case
• 🧼 Deodorant – Stick travels best
• 🪒 Razor – In checked bag
• 💅 Nail kit – File and clipper
• 🌸 Perfume – Travel spray
• 🤧 Pocket tissues – For cold, wind, or tears!

📱 Tech & Electronics

• 📱 Unlocked smartphone – For maps & SIM
• 💻 Tablet or laptop – For planning or relaxing
• 📷 Camera – Optional, phone may suffice
• 🔌 Chargers – For all devices
• 🔋 Power bank – For sightseeing days
• 📎 Cable pouch – Keep cords organized
• 🌍 Plug adapter – Type F for Germany
• 💽 Backup drive – Or cloud access
• 🗺️ Offline maps & apps – Maps.me or Google Maps
• 📶 eSIM or SIM – Get local data
• 📖 E-reader – Lightweight for reading
• 🎧 Headphones – Noise-canceling if possible
• 📱 Waterproof phone case – In rain or snow

🎧 Entertainment

• 📚 Books – Cozy reads for train rides
• 📺 Netflix shows – Downloaded for downtime
• 🎙️ Podcasts – For walks or travel days
• 📓 Journal – Record your winter trip
• 🎲 Travel games – Cards, puzzles
• 📰 Magazines – Light reading in cafes

🎁 Extras

• 🍫 Snacks – For trains or Christmas markets
• 💧 Water bottle – Insulated if possible
• 🛍️ Shopping bag – Foldable and reusable
• 🧴 Laundry soap sheets – For small washes
• 🧵 Sewing kit – For emergency fixes
• 📯 Safety whistle – Extra precaution
• 🧽 Lint roller – For coats & wool items
• 🦶 Footrest – Flights or long rides
• 👃 Shoe deodorizer – Keep boots fresh
• 🌙 Sleep aid – Jet lag help

🌍 Travel Tips

• 📏 Confirm airline baggage rules
• 📲 Download local travel apps
• 👕 Pack full outfit in carry-on
• 📸 Photo your bag for ID
• 🏦 Notify bank of travel dates

🛂 Visa Tips

• 🕐 Apply early if required
• 🖨️ Print copies of visa/docs
• 📸 Bring passport photos
• 🛫 Proof of return ticket
• 🚫 Know Germany’s customs rules

⭐ Must-Haves

• 🛂 Passport + visa
• 🧾 Insurance
• 📱 Phone + charger
• 💳 Cards + cash
• 🧴 Health kit
• 🗺️ Maps / itinerary
• 🎒 Daypack
• 💧 Water bottle

👍 Good-to-Have

• 💦 Hydration pack
• 🧺 Travel steamer
• 😴 Sleep mask / blanket
• 🎧 Noise-canceling headphones
• 🧣 Extra scarf
• ☔ Backup umbrella
• 📶 eSIM / SIM card
• 🛍️ Extra tote bag