Winter holiday packing list & packing tips

Planning a winter staycation in the UK can be an exciting adventure, but packing for the trip, especially when travelling by train, requires planning beforehand, especially around the Christmas period.

Whether you're heading to London, York, or West Yorkshire, here are some detailed packing tips to help you make the most of your luggage space while keeping warm and stylish during your getaway.

Make a holiday packing list for Winter essentials

Start your packing process with a comprehensive packing list for your holiday.

Think about the specific weather conditions of your destination, including chilly temperatures and the potential for rain or snow.

Include essential items for any children you may have and yourself, like a warm coat, insulated layers, waterproof footwear, and accessories like scarves, gloves, and hats. Remember to also add travel-specific necessities like your train tickets, charging cables, and toiletries.

Organising your holiday packing list by category—clothing, accessories, toiletries, and documents—will help ensure you don’t forget anything vital. As you pack, check items off your list to stay organised and avoid the dreaded last-minute panic.

Choose the right suitcase

When travelling by train, consider the size and weight of your suitcase.

A medium-sized hard-shell case is ideal as it offers durability and protection for your belongings, yet remains manageable to carry or roll through crowded train stations. If you plan to navigate stairs or tight spaces, opt for a lightweight option that won’t weigh you down.

Train baggage policy

Make sure your suitcase meets the train company’s baggage policy, typically allowing for one main suitcase and a small carry-on or backpack. This will ensure you can store your luggage safely on the train without hassle.

Read more about what you can take on our trains in our friendly guide.

Packing tips for layering

Winter city breaks often involve fluctuating temperatures, both outdoors and indoors. Packing layers is key to staying comfortable.

Start with a thermal base layer, then add long-sleeve tops and lightweight sweatshirts that can be easily layered under your coat. A stylish but functional outer layer, like a waterproof coat, is essential for battling the unpredictable UK winter weather.

Avoid bulky items that take up too much space. Instead, opt for versatile pieces that can be mixed and matched for different outfits. This way, you can create various looks without overpacking.

Packing tips for footwear

Exploring a city in winter often means long walks, so comfortable footwear is a must.

Pack a pair of well-fitted, waterproof boots that will keep your feet warm and dry. If you have space, consider packing a lighter pair of shoes for indoor settings or a night out.

To save space, wear your bulkiest pair on the train. This not only frees up room in your suitcase but also keeps your feet cosy during travel.

How to roll clothes for packing

To maximise packing space, roll your clothes instead of folding them.

This method not only saves space but also minimises wrinkles, which is especially helpful for garments like shirts and trousers.

What is a packing cube?

Use packing cubes for better organisation, grouping similar items to make it easier to find what you need without digging through your entire suitcase.

For your winter accessories, consider using smaller pouches to keep items like gloves and scarves organised and accessible.

Packing tips to utilise suitcase space

Take advantage of every available inch in your suitcase.

Stuff socks and undergarments inside your shoes to utilise that space effectively. You can also use the pockets of your suitcase for smaller items like chargers, cosmetics, or travel documents.

If you have a small backpack or tote, pack it with essentials that you’ll need during the train ride, such as a water bottle, snacks, a travel book, or your e-reader. This makes for easy access and helps keep your larger suitcase more organised.

Packing tips for cables and tech

When travelling, it’s easy for cables to become a tangled mess. Use a small pouch or an old sunglasses case to store your phone charger and any other cables neatly.

If you rely on various devices, consider a multi-port charger to minimise the number of cords you need to pack.

Remember to download any apps, entertainment or maps before your trip, so you can enjoy them offline during your train journey or while exploring the city.

Packing tips to prevent toiletry leaks

Leaking toiletries can ruin your packed clothes, so be proactive. Use travel-sized containers for liquids, and ensure they are tightly sealed.

Another effective method is to place a piece of cling film over the opening of bottles before securing the cap.

Pack toiletries in a dedicated, resealable plastic bag or a travel case. This way, if there is a leak, your clothes will remain protected.

Consider solid toiletry shampoo bars since they are spill-proof and hand luggage-friendly.

Pack pillowcases for laundry

While on your winter getaway, you might accumulate some dirty laundry. Packing a lightweight pillowcase can help keep worn items separate from clean ones.

Use it to store your dirty clothes during the trip, making it easy to sort when you return home. Plus, it’s a space-efficient way to manage your packing.

Leave room for souvenirs

If you plan on shopping during your city break, ensure you leave some space in your suitcase for souvenirs. Wrap any fragile items in clothing to protect them during travel.

If you anticipate buying a lot, consider bringing an extra foldable tote bag. It won’t take up much space in your suitcase but can be a lifesaver for additional purchases on the return journey.

Swap paper books for an e-reader

While nothing compares to a physical book, they can take up considerable space in your suitcase. 

Opt for an e-reader loaded with your favourite titles for easy access to numerous books without the bulk. This is especially useful for relaxing during your train journey or unwinding in your hotel.

Many e-readers allow you to purchase and download books while travelling, ensuring you never run out of reading material.

Edit your holiday packing list before you leave

After you’ve packed, give your suitcase a second look. If you’ve packed a day or more in advance, take time to reassess your selections.

Are there items you could do without, or extra outfits that won’t be necessary? By editing your list with a fresh perspective, you can create more space for essentials or souvenirs, making your trip more enjoyable.

Packing tips for travelling on a Grand Central train

With these tailored packing tips for your winter city break in the UK, you can navigate train travel more efficiently while staying stylish and comfortable. 

Book your train tickets today to travel to a city you will love.