Every holiday season, I pack up my things and escape the craze of the holidays in NYC to head to my family’s place in Colorado. I look forward to it every year—seeing family members I don’t normally get to see, making holiday cocktails with my sisters, and, my favorite part, busting out the ski clothes I store in my grandparents house to head up the mountain for a little après-ski. After all, that is why people go to the mountains, right? After years of spending my holidays in Colorado, when it comes to packing for my annual winter trip, I have become somewhat of an expert. I have learned several tips and tricks that make packing up all of my essentials (and, trust me, it’s a long list) easy and stress free, which is exactly how you want your packing experience to be. I listed 35 items that I’ll be bringing with me this year on my winter travels, including packing cubes, my favorite cosmetics cases, travel fragrances, aprés-ski looks, and everything in between.
Trust me, you’re going to want to take a look at these. Keep scrolling to see which 35 items made my list.
Calpak
Ambeur 22-Inch Rolling Spinner Carry-On
If you travel on a regular basis, then you need to invest in this Calpak carry-on. I've tried so many different ones, and I have to say this one is my favorite.
Hanky Panky
Assorted 5-Pack Lace Low Rise Thongs
Hanky Panky undies are an editor- and fashion-person-loved brand for a reason. I never travel without mine.
Abercrombie
Removable Scarf Double-Cloth Wool-Blend Jacket
Scarf jackets have such an elevated, luxe vibe. I'm a fan of Abercrombie's take.
Le Labo
Eau De Parfum Discovery Set
You really can't go wrong with Le Labo's travel scents. They're all so good.
Kaya
Large Clear Cosmetics Case
The cosmetics case that I swear by.
Alo
High-Waist Airlift Legging in Black
My favorite leggings, period.
Jenny Bird
Nouveaux Puff Earrings
These are crowd-pleasers for sure. Every time I travel, I bring them with me.
Kaya
Jewelry Case
If you're a jewelry lover like I am, then you're going to want to grab one of these. They come in a few different colors.
UGG
Ultra Mini Classic Boot
Uggs are my go-to travel shoes, for obvious reasons.
Reformation
Arco Cashmere Sleeveless Turtleneck Sweater
A black cashmere sweater is always on my winter packing list. It's such a versatile piece I know I'll wear several times on my trip.
Calpak
Luka Duffle Bag
This duffle comes in a few colors, but I love this light-pink hue.
H&M
Jacquard-Knit Sweater
Just picture this sweater in the mountains.
Perfect Moment
Talia Quilted Pants
Now these, I'm obsessed with.
Calpak
5-Piece Packing Cube Set
I'm new to packing cubes, and I have no idea what took so long.
Free People
Falling For You Brushed Plaid Scarf
You're going to want to pack a cozy scarf for the winter.
FP Movement
Myoko Jacquard Layer Sweatshirt
This FP Movement long-sleeve and leggings set is just begging to be worn in Colorado during the winter.
FP Movement
Myoko Jacquard Leggings
Style with the matching top above.
Alo
Faux Fur Ear Warmers
How cute are these ear warmers?
H&M
Knit Off-the-Shoulder Dress
I wore this dress the other day, and it looks so expensive in person. I have a feeling I'll be wearing it all winter long.
Celine Eyewear
Studded Ski Goggles
Imagine these on the slopes in Aspen.
Perfect Moment
Neve Wool Sweater
I'm picturing myself wearing this with a fuzzy hat while enjoying a winter cocktail.
Goldbergh
Pippa Ski Pants
These ski pants not only look so good but also will last for years. Plus they pair well with anything.
MacKage
Freya City Water Resistant 800 Fill Power Down Hooded Puffer Jacket
My investment winter coat for the season. I love the drawstring waist.
Ramy Brook
Bode Knit Jumpsuit
I have this jumpsuit, and I am literally counting down the days until I can wear it.
Youth to the People
The Youth Systems Travel Size Skin Care Set
My holy-grail travel skincare set. (Plus, it's under $60.)
Béis
Set of 2 Plaid Cosmetics Pouches
This plaid fabric is everything and more. I'd use these to pack skincare/haircare/fragrance.
Loewe
Embroidered Shearling Bucket Hat
I've never been so obsessed with a shearling bucket hat.
Sweaty Betty
Modal Fair Isle Base Layer Top
The perfect ski-lodge look.
Sweaty Betty
Modal Fair Isle Base Layer Leggings
I love this magenta color. Style with the matching top.
The North Face
1996 Retro Nuptse Jacket
I've been a North Face fan for years now. Every Colorado trip requires a North Face item.
Moon Boot
Icon Low Nylon
I've been wanting a pair of Moon Boots for a while now. These pink ones are calling my name.
Andine
Kiki Positano Chemise
Andine pajamas are so soft and cozy. I always pack at least one piece from this brand while traveling.
Béis
The Cosmetics Case
A sleek cosmetics case perfect for traveling.
Alo
Aspen Love Puffer Jacket
There is something so chic about a white puffer in the snow.
Sam Edelman
Vance Pointed Toe Knee High Boot
These wedged boots come in a few colors, but I love the red pair as a pop of color. Plus, they go well with more than you may think.
Originally from Chicago, Illinois, Grace has always been a lover of all things fashion and beauty. Upon receiving her first degree in visual communications from FIDM in Los Angeles, she moved to New York City and continued her education at LIM College, majoring in fashion media with a minor in society and culture. Grace has worked for PhotoBook magazine, Insider, and Harper's Bazaar. As a writer, Grace has had pieces published covering topics including racial justice, fashion, politics, and current events. As the previous assistant shopping editor at Who What Wear, Grace loves finding the best buys out there for the WWW readers.