Traveling to South Korea this winter? From snowy palaces in Seoul and shopping in Busan to ski trips in Pyeongchang and Jeju Island escapes, Korea is magical in winter — but temperatures can be extreme.
This Korea winter packing list will help you pack the right clothing, essentials, and accessories to stay cozy and stylish.
Korea Winter Weather Overview 🌡️
- Korea’s winter (December–February) is cold, dry, and windy. In Seoul, average highs are -2–5°C (28–41°F), and nights can dip below freezing.
- Snow is common in the north and mountains, while southern cities like Busan and Jeju are milder but still chilly.
- Pack warm layers, thermal gear, and moisture-protecting skincare.
What to Pack for Korea in Winter 🎒
- 🧥 Heavy insulated coat – Down or padded parka for freezing temps.
- 🧣 Scarf, hat, and gloves – Essential for icy winds.
- 🧦 Thermal base layers – A must for Seoul and the mountains.
- 🥾 Waterproof boots – For snow and icy streets.
- 🔌 Power adapter – Korea uses Type C/F plugs, 220V.
✅ The Ultimate Korea Winter Packing List
Packing smart will help you make the most of your trip. Here’s 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
🧳 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
- ✈️ Carry-on suitcase – Good for trains and subways.
- 🧳 Checked luggage – If bringing bulky coats or shopping in Korea.
- 🎒 Daypack – For sightseeing or ski day trips.
- 🧩 Packing cubes – Organize heavy layers.
- 🧺 Laundry bag – For sweaty or damp clothes.
👗 Clothes
- 🧥 Down coat or insulated parka (1)
- 🧶 Thick sweaters (2–3)
- 👕 Long-sleeve tops (5+)
- 🧦 Thermal base layers (2–3)
- 👖 Warm jeans & trousers (3)
- 👔 Smart outfit – For dining or nightlife in Seoul.
- 🧣 Scarf, gloves, and hat
- 🧦 Wool socks (7+)
- 👚 Undergarments (1 per day)
- 💤 Warm pajamas
💆 Skincare
- 🧴 Intense moisturizer – The air is very dry in winter.
- 💋 Lip balm – Absolute must against chapped lips.
- ☀️ Sunscreen – Snow glare can be strong.
- 🌙 Sheet masks – Hydrate skin after a cold day out.
- ✋ Hand cream – For cracked hands.
💇 Hair & Makeup
- 💆 Hairbrush / comb
- 🧴 Shampoo & conditioner
- 💨 Hairdryer (many hotels provide one)
- 💄 Makeup basics – Many go for “glass skin” look in Korea.
👠 Shoes & Accessories
- 🥾 Insulated boots – Waterproof for snow and ice.
- 👟 Sneakers – For dry, warmer days.
- 👠 Dress shoes – For evenings out in Seoul.
- 👜 Crossbody bag – Safer in busy markets and subways.
- 🧣 Heat packs (Korean “Hot Packs”) – Widely sold but useful to bring.
🧾 Documents & Essentials
- 🛂 Passport + copies
- 📄 K-ETA (if required for your nationality)
- 📜 Travel insurance
- 💳 Credit/debit cards – Contactless common
- 💶 Won cash – For small vendors and markets
- 🚆 T-money transport card – For subways and buses
🩹 Health & First Aid
- 💊 Prescription meds
- 🩹 Bandaids – For blisters from walking
- 💊 Pain relievers
- 😷 Face masks – Still commonly worn in Korea
- 🥤 Reusable water bottle
📱 Tech & Electronics
- 🔌 Universal adapter – Korea uses Type C/F plugs
- 📱 Phone + charger
- 🔋 Power bank
- 📷 Camera – For palaces and snowy landscapes
- 📡 Pocket WiFi or SIM card – Essential for navigation & translation
✈️ Travel Tips for Korea in Winter
- 🏯 Palaces look magical in snow – wear warm layers for long outdoor walks.
- ☃️ Ski resorts like Pyeongchang are popular – pack gear or rent locally.
- 🔥 Heated floors (“ondol”) in Korean homes and hotels make indoor wear cozy.
- 🍲 Warm up with hotteok (sweet pancakes) and Korean street food.
✅ Must-Haves for a Smooth Korea Winter Trip
- 🧥 Heavy winter coat
- 🧦 Thermal layers
- 🥾 Waterproof boots
- 🧣 Scarf & gloves
- 🧴 Moisturizer & lip balm
- 📜 Travel insurance
- 🔌 Power adapter (Type C/F)
- 🛂 Passport + K-ETA (if needed)
