Germany Winter Packing List 🇩🇪❄️ What to Pack for a Trip in Cold Weather

Traveling to Germany this winter? Whether you’re exploring Berlin’s museums, Munich’s beer halls, or magical Christmas markets, this Germany winter packing list will keep you warm, comfortable, and stylish throughout your trip.

Germany Winter Weather Overview 🌡️

• Germany’s winters (December–February) are cold and damp, with average temperatures between -1–5°C (30–41°F), but some places can be even colder (-10 to -15°C or even colder). There was a time it was -25°C in a city where I lived in the mountains (Ilmenau), but it was very extreme.
• Snow is common in Bavaria and the Alps, while cities like Berlin, Frankfurt, and Hamburg see icy winds and rain. Pack for layers, waterproofing, and warmth.

What to Pack for Germany in Winter 🎒

• 🧥 Insulated winter coat – Waterproof and windproof.
• 🧣 Scarf, gloves, and hat – Essential for Christmas markets and outdoor walks.
• 🥾 Waterproof boots – Great for snow, slush, and cobblestones.
• 👖 Thermal base layers – For very cold days.
• 🔌 Power adapter – Germany uses Type C/F plugs, 230V.

✅ The Ultimate Germany Winter Packing List

🧳 Luggage & Packing Tools

• ✈️ Carry-on suitcase – Handy for trains and budget flights.
• 🧳 Checked luggage – If you plan to shop or pack bulky coats.
• 🎒 Daypack – For day trips and Christmas market shopping.
• 🧩 Packing cubes – Organize warm layers.
• 🧺 Laundry bag – For damp clothes.

👗 Clothes

• 🧥 Insulated coat or parka (1)
• 🧶 Wool sweaters / pullovers (2–3)
• 👕 Long-sleeve tops (5+)
• 🧦 Thermal base layers (2–3)
• 👖 Jeans & trousers (3)
• 👔 Smart outfit (1–2) – For dining or opera.
• 🧣 Scarf, gloves, and beanie
• 🧦 Wool socks (7+)
• 👚 Undergarments (1 per day)
• 💤 Pajamas (warm)

💆 Skincare

• 🧴 Moisturizer – Dry indoor heating can be harsh.
• 💋 Lip balm – Cold winds chap lips quickly.
• ☀️ Sunscreen – Useful in snowy Alpine areas.
• ✋ Hand cream – For cracked hands in dry air.

💇 Hair & Makeup

• 💆 Hairbrush / comb
• 🧴 Shampoo & conditioner
• 💨 Travel hairdryer (check dual voltage)
• 💄 Makeup basics – Waterproof mascara for snowy days.

👠 Shoes & Accessories

• 🥾 Waterproof boots – For walking in snow and slush.
• 👟 Sneakers – For indoor exploring or warmer days.
• 👠 Dress shoes – For theatre or fine dining.
• 👜 Crossbody bag – Safer in crowded Christmas markets.
• ☂️ Compact umbrella – German winters bring rain too.

🧾 Documents & Essentials

• 🛂 Passport + copies
• 📄 Visa (if required)
• 📜 Travel insurance
• 💳 Credit/debit cards – Contactless is common
• 💶 Euro cash – Christmas markets often take cash only
• 🚆 Rail pass or tickets – For Deutsche Bahn trains

🩹 Health & First Aid

• 💊 Prescription meds
• 🩹 Bandaids – For long walking days
• 💊 Pain relievers
• 🥤 Reusable water bottle

📱 Tech & Electronics

• 🔌 Universal adapter – Germany uses Type C/F plugs
• 📱 Phone + charger
• 🔋 Power bank
• 📷 Camera – For winter landscapes & markets
• 📚 E-reader / tablet – Perfect for train rides

✈️ Travel Tips for Germany in Winter

• 🎄 Visit Christmas markets – Cologne, Nuremberg, and Dresden are magical.
• 🚆 Use trains – Efficient and comfortable, even in winter.
• 🍺 Warm up in a beer hall – Try mulled wine (Glühwein) at markets.
• 🧥 Dress in layers – Indoors is heated, outdoors is freezing.

✅ Must-Haves for a Smooth Germany Winter Trip

• 🧥 Insulated winter coat
• 🧣 Scarf, gloves, and hat
• 🥾 Waterproof boots
• ☂️ Umbrella
• 📜 Travel insurance
• 🔌 Power adapter (Type C/F)
• 💶 Euro cash
• 🛂 Passport + travel documents