What are the Northern Lights?

The northern lights are caused by energized particles from the sun entering the Earth’s upper atmosphere at high speeds. The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) offers a more scientific explanation of the northern lights, saying, “When a solar storm comes toward us, some of the energy and small particles can travel down the magnetic field lines at the north and south poles into Earth’s atmosphere. There, the particles interact with gases in our atmosphere resulting in beautiful displays of light in the sky. Oxygen gives off green and red light.”

The Best Places to See the Northern Lights

The best places to see the northern lights are northern destinations with minimal light pollution, clear skies, and dry weather. 

Iceland

You don’t have to venture too far outside the brightly-lit downtown area of Iceland’s capital city, Reykjavik, to see the northern lights. Within the city itself, you’ll find Perlan, a famous Icelandic observatory rising 61 meters above Reykjavik. The glass-domed top structure offers a warm indoor spot to wait for the light show.

If you weren’t lucky enough to spot the Aurora at Perlan, the planetarium has an immersive northern lights video show that’s the next best thing.

Alaska

Alaska is by far the best place in the United States to see the northern lights. Although the northern lights can be seen statewide, the best places to see them in Alaska are the Interior, Arctic, and Southcentral regions due to their locations under the auroral oval. 

If you’re based in Fairbanks, we recommend booking a northern lights guided tour, which will take you away from city lights. These tour operators monitor weather conditions and aurora forecasts and take groups to spots where there’s the best chance to see the lights. Choose one of the tours that allow you to book a multi-day window instead of a specific date—that way, you’re not locked into a tour on a night that ends up being rainy or cloudy.  

Canada

If you want to see the northern lights in summer, you can actually view them during all four seasons in Canada (but you’ll have the best luck from December to March). Destination Canada recommends the Northwest Territories as the best place in Canada to see the northern lights. In the Northwest Territories, the aurora is visible on an average of 240 nights per year. 

Hoping to spot the lights in the Edmonton area? Sign up for this free email alert that will let you know if there might be an aurora that night.

The Faroe Islands

Some of the most spectacular auroras in the world can be spotted on the Faroe Islands. These far-flung islands, located between Iceland and Norway, are difficult to reach, but their remote location helps with the northern lights viewing, thanks to minimal light pollution.

The peak season for aurora viewing on the Faroe Islands runs from late October to early March.

Sweden

You can see the northern lights from anywhere in Sweden, but for the most brilliant auroras, go north to Swedish Lapland. This isolated swatch of land offers pitch-dark nights and crisp conditions that are optimal for the lights. 

The best time to see the northern lights in Sweden is between 6 pm and 2 am, and the colors are generally most vivid between 10 and 11 pm. 

Norway

Statistically, the best time to see the northern lights in Norway is during March, April, September, or October. Visitors in the winter months will also have a good chance of seeing some aurora activity. 

One of the best methods for hunting the northern lights is by boat, as you’re away from land (and light pollution). In Norway, plenty of companies offer overnight northern light cruises that cross the Arctic Circle, guaranteeing stunning scenery during the day (even if the aurora spotting is not guaranteed). 

Greenland

Want to see the northern lights on your summer vacation? Head to Greenland, where the Aurora Borealis can be seen as early as the end of August. (However, late September is when the northern light season really kicks off.)

Greenland’s position as the northernmost country, along with minimal light pollution and hundreds of clear sky days each year, make it one of the best places in the world to see the northern lights. 

Scotland 

If you’re hoping to see the northern lights in the United Kingdom, it makes sense to head north to Scotland. Northern Scotland lies at the same latitude as parts of Norway and Alaska, making it one of the best spots to see the lights. 

For a magical experience and the best chance to witness the ‘Mirrie Dancer’ as the northern lights are nicknamed in Scotland, go to the Trotternish Peninsula on Skye, which is home to nine Dark Sky Discovery Sites.

The Best Time to See the Northern Lights

Since the northern lights can only be seen after dark, September through April are the best times to see them. The northern lights occur year-round but are not visible to the human eye when the sun is out—In many northern destinations, the days are too long in the summer to create dark enough conditions to see the phenomenon.

The best time of night to see the northern lights varies by destination but is generally between 10 pm and 2 am. 

Northern Lights Tracker

Find out where you’ll have the best chance of seeing the northern lights by using a northern lights tracker like this one from the National Oceanic And Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). The tracker shows a short-term forecast for auroras around the world.

5 Tips for Seeing the Northern Lights

1. Find a viewing spot with an unobstructed view toward the north
2. Time your trip for when the moon is least visible (a full moon will diminish your ability to see the northern lights)
3. Avoid light pollution
4. Plan a multi-night trip so you have better odds of seeing an aurora 
5. Ask your hotel reception to call your room and wake you up if the northern lights occur

The post Where Can You See the Northern Lights? appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Cityscapes and Neighborhood Light Displays

Rockefeller Plaza, NYC

Arguably the most famous Christmas tree in the world is at Rockefeller Center in New York, with a display of angels that’s just as iconic. 

Baltimore, Maryland

The “Hampden Maryland Miracle on 34th Street” is a neighborhood where you absolutely have to decorate with Christmas lights: each house on this block in Baltimore is more decorated than the last. 

St Augustine, Florida

Downtown St. Augustine is renowned for its Nights of Lights display, featuring millions of tiny white lights strung along historic Spanish Colonial architecture spanning 20 blocks.

Dyker Heights, Brooklyn

After checking out Rockefeller Center, head to Brooklyn where the neighbors in Dyker Heights string lights on every branch of their trees and fill their yards with hundreds of nutcrackers.

Koziar’s Christmas Village, Pennsylvania

In the town of Bernsville in Pennsylvania, a family began decorating their house and yard in 1948 so much that it became known as the “Christmas House,” and now it’s transformed into the incredibly elaborate Koziar’s Christmas Village.

Clifton Mill, Ohio

More than four million lights decorate the historic Clifton Mill in Clifton, Ohio, which includes a Santa Claus museum and a light show synchronized to music over a covered bridge.

Austin Trail of Lights, Texas

Austin decorates its Zilker Park with more than two million lights for the holidays as part of the Austin Trail of Lights, and the drive-through route is so bright it’s practically visible from outer space.

New Orleans, Louisiana

Drive through Celebration in the Oaks at New Orleans’ City Park and see historic oak trees covered in over a million twinkling lights.

Zoo Light Displays

Indianapolis Zoo

The Indianapolis Zoo’s holiday festival Christmas at the Zoo goes back to 1967, and besides twinkling lights, there’s “Santa’s Barn” with reindeer and a chance to meet and greet with penguins.

San Diego Zoo

Often ranked one of the best zoos in the world, the San Diego Zoo’s Jungle Bells holiday display brings in a Twinkle Light Trolley to explore lit-up animal habitats, including a Northern Frontiers Holiday Forest.

Cincinnati Zoo

For Cincinnati Zoo’s PNC Festival of Lights, five million LED lights are strung up around the zoo, along with a light show on Swan Lake and strategically-placed oversize animal lanterns. 

St. Louis Zoo

St. Louis’s historic zoo established in 1910 gets dressed up for the holidays during the St. Louis Zoo’s U.S. Bank Wild Lights festival, featuring animal-themed light displays and a chance to go in the zoo’s Sea Lion Sound Tunnel.

Dallas Zoo 

Drive through a mile-long route of holiday lights at Dallas Zoo Lights, including high-tech projection mapping and a holiday village to explore at the end of the ride.

Botanical Gardens

Descano Gardens

In Los Angeles, take a one-mile walk through Descanso Gardens’ Enchanted Forest of Light display, featuring dramatic lighting in an ancient forest and stained glass creations from sculptor Tom Fruin.

Longwood Gardens

This botanical garden near Philadelphia is one of the most famous in the U.S., and for Longwood Christmas, find half a million twinkling lights, illuminated treehouses, and a colorful fountain display.

ABQ BioPark Botanic Garden 

New Mexico’s largest walk-through light show is the ABQ BioPark Botanic Garden’s River of Lights, with more than 800 holiday displays.

Atlanta Botanical Gardens

Illuminated sculptures light up the night at Atlanta Botanical Garden’s Garden Lights, Holiday Nights, including a Glowing Grove along the garden’s flower walk. 

The Morton Arboretum  

Each year, 50 acres of tree groves are awash in color during Illumination: Tree Lights at The Morton Arboretum near Chicago, with s’mores stops along the walking route.

Amusement Parks and Pop-Ups

Busch Gardens, Virginia

Busch Gardens Williamsburg in Virginia puts up a whopping 10 million lights during the holidays, making the Christmas Town festivities one of the largest light shows in North America.

Hersheypark, Pennsylvania

Naturally, this amusement park has a sweet theme for its light display: Hersheypark. Christmas Candylane boasts more than five million lights and a Santa display with reindeer.

LuminoCity, NYC and D.C.

LuminoCity, an immersive pop-up light show in Freehold, New Jersey and East Meadow, New York, revolves around larger-than-life illuminated sculptures.

Silver Dollar City, Missouri 

Over six million lights illuminate Silver Dollar City’s An Old Time Christmas display In Branson, with a parade every night featuring Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer.

Disney World, Florida

At the Magic Kingdom in Orlando, rides like Jungle Cruise get a holiday makeover during Disney Very Merriest After Hours and there’s a “magical snowfall” to see on Main Street, U.S.A.

All of the products featured in this story were hand-selected by our travel editors. Some of the links featured in this story are affiliate links, and SmarterTravel may collect a commission (at no cost to you) if you shop through them. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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Taco Beast, Steamboat, Colorado

You’re skiing at Steamboat when you start to get hungry, but the powder’s good, and you don’t want to stop to eat. Then, like magic, through a flurry of snow, a tricked-out snowcat appears in front of you, bearing tacos. No, it’s not some kind of mountain mirage; it’s the Taco Beast, and it’s real. This snowcat-turned food truck roams Steamboat’s slopes from 11:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Thursday through Sunday, serving up four different kinds of tacos, esquites, and drinks. 

Ski-in, Ski-Out Distillery, Park City Mountain, Utah

Need to warm up from the inside? Ski right into High West Distillery, the world’s first ski-in, ski-out gastropub distillery. Here, you can grab a glass of house-made whiskey (with plenty of varieties, including a double rye) that will leave you feeling nice and toasty before you head back onto the slopes. Just don’t have too many, lest you fall off the chairlift.

Gondola Fondue, Vaujany, France

How amazing would it be if, at the end of a long lift line, you stepped into a gondola and were offered hot, gooey fondue? At Vaujany in France, this dream almost comes true—sadly, the gondola fondue isn’t available during ski hours, but you can reserve this after-hours experience throughout the winter season. The gondolas get kitted out with tables and stocked with fondue, aperitifs, dessert, and hot beverages for riders to enjoy while the gondola traverses the mountain.

Heated Gondola Seats, Vail, Colorado

Vail’s luxury gondolas might be nicer than your hotel room, but unfortunately, you’re not allowed to sleep there. Inside, heated seats warm you up in between runs, and free Wi-Fi means you can look up a trail map or post a smug Instagram during your 7.5-minute ride.

J.E. Henry Railroad, Loon, New Hampshire

Sure, you could ski or walk between the Octagon Lodge and the Governor Adams Lodge at Loon Mountain, or you could take a train. This wood-fired, steam-powered engine runs 900 feet back and forth each winter, shuttling skiers in a unique fashion.

The post Snowcat Tacos and 4 Other Amazing Ski Resort Amenities appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Eating 12 Grapes

Start the year off on a sweet note by following the Spanish tradition of eating grapes at the stroke of midnight. Known as “The twelve grapes of luck,” revelers must eat one grape for every chime of the clock at twelve on the dot. If you successfully finish all twelve grapes within the minute, you’ll reportedly be rewarded with luck, love, and happiness in the new year.

Make a Wish on Your Suitcase

Hopeful travelers can learn a lot from this tradition that occurs in many Latin American countries, most notably Ecuador, Colombia, and Mexico. Many believe that packing a suitcase with items representing the type of trip you want (like a bikini or hiking boots) and taking it for a walk around the block will bring travel in the coming year.

You might feel a little odd when your neighbors see you taking your suitcase for a walk, but they’ll be totally jealous when you’re on your way to the airport.

Baking a Coin into the Bread

In Greece, New Year’s Eve is celebrated by baking a traditional bread known as Vasilopita that comes with a special surprise: a “sweet coin” baked into the bread (or cake in some cultures). It’s a coin wrapped in tin foil and dropped randomly into the bread; whoever gets the lucky piece will have good luck for the following year. The tradition honors St. Basil, who came up with the idea to bake coins into bread when he knew the poor people of his church would be too proud to accept charity.

Throwing Stuff Out the Window

Heads up! If you plan to spend New Year’s Eve in Italy, you might want to find some cover because Italians like to ring in the new year by chucking dishware, appliances, and sometimes even furniture out the window. But it’s not just a lot of ruckus; the act symbolizes letting go of the past. By hurling unwanted possessions out the window, Italians cast out the old troubles and welcome hope for a new year.

Wearing New Underwear

If you intend to welcome the new year in Brazil, you’ll have to follow a dress code. Brazilians traditionally wear white on New Year’s Eve, but that’s not all. They also believe you should wear brand-new underwear and that the color of the underwear will represent what you wish to attract in the new year—yellow for money, green for health, and red for love.

Breaking Dishes

This tradition is best celebrated in its native countries, as it involves breaking plates against your neighbors’ doors. In countries like Denmark, Germany, and the Netherlands, throwing dishes against other people’s homes is popular as a sign of good luck and camaraderie. In fact, the more pieces of broken glass you have on your doorstep, the more well-liked you are!

Eating Seven Times

New Year’s Eve in Estonia never ends on an empty stomach. In this small Baltic country, they eat seven times to celebrate the new year. Eating so often is a wish for abundance and strength in the coming year, and seven is one of the country’s lucky numbers.

Dropping Ice Cream on the Floor

If your ice cream falls to the floor in Switzerland, there’s no need to be upset. The Swiss purposefully drop their ice cream on the floor on New Year’s Eve to bring on a year of abundance and (hopefully) more ice cream.

Ringing a Bell 108 Times

In Buddhism, it’s believed that there are 108 earthly desires that cause suffering. At the stroke of midnight on New Year’s Eve in Japan, temple bells will toll 108 times—one for each desire. This ritual is called Joya-no-Kane. It’s all about purification and encouraging a fresh start for the new year.

Everything Is Round

In the Philippines, the new year is celebrated with roundness. Part of the fun of the day is coming up with 12 different round fruits—one for each month of the year. For Filipinos, roundness is a symbol of health and also signifies prosperity and wealth (because coins are also round). Women will often wear polka-dot dresses to add even more roundness to the big day.

Predicting the Future

On New Year’s Eve in Finland, people have a tradition of fortunetelling. They’ll melt small tin horseshoes in a pan and then pour the liquid metal into a bucket of cold water. The tin solidifies instantly when it hits the water, resulting in random shapes. The shapes are then interpreted to predict their future for the coming year.

Hitting the Walls with Bread

In Ireland, bad luck must be driven out of the house before midnight, and the quickest way to get bad spirits out of the house is apparently with a loaf of Christmas bread. The Irish will smack the walls and bang on the doors with bread to chase out the bad and welcome in the good spirits.

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Winter Travel Tips for Flying

Always Fly Direct

The worst winter travel problems frequently occur at connecting airports. If your first outbound flight is canceled and you end up returning to your own home from your local airport, that’s not too bad; if you are stuck in your vacation hotel hoping to get a flight home, that’s a bit worse. But when you’re stuck in a connecting airport in Texas calling hotels and praying for a place to stay, you’re in what I would call your worst-case scenario.

For this reason, you should fly nonstop whenever possible. To find nonstop flights, do all your initial flight searches with the “Nonstop Flights Only” button checked on your favorite booking engine. If you also use search options like “Show Nearby Airports” and “My Dates Are Flexible,” you’ll have a very good sense of how best to get from Point A to B without any Point C for connection.

Beware of Layover Times

If you absolutely must fly with a connection, watch your layover times carefully. If a weather delay causes you to miss your connection, you might be out of luck; the airline is not necessarily obligated to find you a seat on the next flight, and often cannot logistically do so if flights are full or unavailable. If you have a really tight connection time and your flight is running late, tell a flight attendant who may be able to make arrangements to hold your next flight, or at least get you off your first flight quickly.

Watch Out for Bad Weather

Check the weather at your connecting cities as well as at your departure and destination airports. You’ll want to know what the weather is like for the departure and arrival airports (particularly if we’re traveling on vacation), but for the same reasons stated above you’ll want to know what is going on at your connecting airport as well. If the weather looks threatening, contact your airline to see if it can reroute you; it may be in its best interest to do so, and save you a lot of grief. Your chances of getting on a different flight will be greatly enhanced if you’ve already done the research yourself to determine which alternate flights might work best. Don’t count on a gate agent to know about or search the schedules of other airlines.

Connect Through a Warm-Weather Destination

Try to book your connection through a southern city where weather shouldn’t be an issue. There are no guarantees here, as northern airports tend to be better equipped to deal with winter conditions, and a snowstorm can almost wholly shut down an airport that more often suffers from too much sun. However, your odds are better in places that rarely see ice or snow.

Book an Early Morning Flight

Choose a morning flight. For two reasons: First, you are far less likely to have your flight affected by problems at other airports. Second, if your flight is canceled or badly delayed, your options for alternate flights are greatly increased, improving your odds for getting on a different flight by the end of the day.

Route Through Smaller Airports

Consider alternative airports. Very often the problem is not solely weather, but also the overall volume of passengers and flights. In places like Los Angeles, New York, Chicago, and Houston, second-tier airports aren’t too far out of town and are tied into the transportation grid.

Prep for Airport Security Ahead of Time

Get ahead of the game at security. Before you even get in line, put all your gear and spare coins into a pocket of your carry-on bag. With so much valuable stuff getting dumped into plastic bins all day, every day, it’s inevitable that stuff gets left behind, dropped, damaged, broken, or even stolen. If you take 15 seconds to stow everything, you’ll make the time up twice over on either side of the security gate, and won’t risk losing cell phones, wallets, keys, and other essentials. Find more airport security tips in our TSA Frequently Asked Questions guide.

Save the Gift Wrapping for Your Destination

The annual holiday travel rule: Don’t wrap gifts—security will have to rip them open. With the TSA searching checked bags as well as carry-ons, this applies to all of your luggage; not just what you bring onto the plane with you. Consider shipping your gifts ahead of time or wrapping them once you get to your destination. Our complete guide on flying with gifts will help you navigate any holiday packing issue. 

Avoid Peak Travel Dates

Finally, avoid peak travel dates as best you can, particularly holiday weekends. Find out the ideal (and not do ideal) dates to book holiday flights in our handy guide.

Winter Travel Tips for Driving

Stock an Emergency Kit

Put some extra clothing and emergency items into your vehicle; these will come in handy if you break down in cold weather. Assemble a basic kit including a pair of gloves, weather-resistant pants and/or coat, maybe an old pair of boots, a blanket, jumper cables, a flashlight with some extra batteries, and a windshield scraper (and maybe a de-icer), and you should be in good shape. You might also toss a few nutrition bars in as well; things that won’t spoil, are packed with calories, and can bail you out in a pinch.

Prepare Your Vehicle for Winter Weather

Make sure your car is checked over for winter weather readiness. In particular, you or a mechanic should inspect your tires before the first big winter storm.

Prioritize Visibility 

Once your vehicle is inspected and equipped, follow this advice I heard a while back from a Montana snowplow driver: “See and be seen. Keep your headlights and taillights clean, especially in stormy weather. Keep windows clean and make sure defrosters work well. If snow has built up on your vehicle overnight or after a break from driving, clear it away so it doesn’t blow off and obscure your windows.”

Drive Slow

Slow down. The U.S. Department of Transportation recommends slowing down by about 50 percent in bad weather. Also leave extra space between you and the car in front of you in case of slippery roads.

Watch Out for Icy Conditions

Remember that not all stretches of road are created alike. For example, many recently built small bridges and overpasses have been designed to blend into the surroundings, with a gradual or nonexistent change in elevation. These bridges nonetheless remain susceptible to icing over much more rapidly than regular blacktop. Look out and look ahead for these short stretches of road when temperatures approach or drop below freezing. If you don’t know the ropes of driving on icy surfaces, here’s how to drive on black ice.

Skip the Cruise Control

Some features of modern automobiles may actually serve you poorly in bad conditions. In some SUVs and four-wheel-drive vehicles, for example, you may have better traction when the vehicle is under way, but the four-wheel drive won’t help you stop any faster. Also, skip the cruise control; your cruise control feature may accelerate when you least want it to, such as when you are climbing an icy bridge.

Keep Cat Litter On Hand

Some safety experts recommend putting a bag of kitty litter in the trunk, both for added ballast to offer better traction, and to put under the wheels if you need to get yourself out of a slippery spot.

Stay Safe If Stranded

If you’re stranded and have to stay in your car, you can run the engine for heat, but make sure the exhaust pipe is not obstructed by snow or mud. If you prefer not to have the engine running the whole time, close the windows to keep heat in, and run the car for 10 minutes every hour, cracking open a front window when you do so.

Park Indoors When Possible

If you are parking at your hotel or near attractions in bad weather, opt for a spot in an indoor parking garage when available.

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Warm Winter Clothes That Pack Thin

Here are essential foundation pieces for your winter travel wardrobe: warm, sleek, and easy to pack.

Outdoor Research Melody Leggings

Outdoor Research’s Melody leggings adapt perfectly to your needs, whether layered under winter wear for added warmth or worn solo. Thanks to their innovative ActiveTemp technology, these leggings automatically regulate your temperature across changing conditions. 

The thoughtfully designed wide, contoured waistband stays put without digging in, making them ideal for those long-haul flights. With quick-drying, UPF 30-rated fabric and convenient drop-in pockets, these stretchy, soft leggings are ready for any adventure you have in mind.

Icebreaker Merino Hike Sock

Warm socks are key to winter comfort, but if you try to wear bulky ski socks with your regular boots, you’re basically asking for blisters. Icebreaker’s Merino Hike+ Crew Socks offer the perfect solution, delivering impressive warmth in a lightweight package through their premium Merino wool design. 

Better yet, merino’s natural odor-resistant properties mean you can wear these socks multiple times between washes, making them ideal for light-packing travelers.

Turtle Fur Comfort Luxe Quantum Balaclava

If you’ve ever had to end your ski day early due to freezing temperatures, you know how important the right gear is. Stay comfortable for longer by protecting every inch of your skin—including your face—with Turtle Fur’s Comfort Luxe Quantum Balaclava. 

This balaclava offers full-face coverage in a remarkably soft buttery fabric that traps warm air for optimal insulation without bulk. Its versatile design features a hinged face panel that can be worn up for complete protection or folded down as a neck warmer, all while fitting seamlessly under your helmet. Think of it as your secret weapon against winter’s worst.

Coastal Crew Nantucket Deckhand Q-Zip

The elusive trifecta of warmth, comfort, and style comes together perfectly in Coastal Crew’s Nantucket Deckhand Q-Zip. This versatile layer pairs an ultralight blend of bamboo, cotton, and spandex with a refined dress shirt collar lining for a polished look that works everywhere. 

Whether layered over a casual tee or a crisp dress shirt, it’s equally at home in the boardroom or on weekend getaways.

Fisher’s Finery Silk Pajama Set

Silk isn’t just about luxury—it’s nature’s perfect insulator, offering exceptional warmth while maintaining breathability. Fishers Finery’s Silk Pajama Set elevates your nightly routine to a five-star experience with its 100 percent pure Mulberry silk construction. These travel-friendly pajamas pack down surprisingly small while regulating your temperature and wicking away moisture for the perfect night’s sleep. 

Don’t let the elegant fabric intimidate you—these pajamas are completely machine washable (simply pop them in the included mesh wash bag).

Tasc Recess Quarter Zip

Tasc’s Recess Quarter-Zip Pullover redefines the meaning of an essential layer, seamlessly transitioning from high-intensity workouts to casual coffee runs. While it may look like your favorite cozy staple, it packs all the technical features of premium athletic wear.

The pullover is thin enough that it can easily be layered under a heavier sweater or jacket on days when you need some extra warmth, and the stylish design pairs effortlessly with leggings or casual wear.

Orvis Cashmere Crew Sweater

For the best warmth-to-weight ratio, nothing surpasses cashmere—especially Orvis’ premium version, which is sourced from Inner Mongolia and is the warmest and softest version of the material available. 

Find this luxury cashmere in Orvis’ Cashmere Crewneck Sweater, a perfectly packable top that will keep you warm without overheating. With its timeless style and superior construction, this sweater will last you through a lifetime of winter trips.

Royal Robbins Backcountry Pro Winter Leggings

One way to keep warm on a frigid day is by wearing fleece-lined leggings under your clothes, like Royal Robbins’ Backcountry Pro Winter Leggings.

These look like normal leggings, but they have a nice, cozy fleece lining hidden on the inside, making them feel like pajamas. Thanks to a water—and wind-resistant exterior, they’re way warmer than jeans. 

Patagonia Nano Puff Jacket

With Patagonia’s Nano Puff Jacket, you don’t have to choose between warmth and style. This jacket has a sleek silhouette while maintaining the benefits of a traditional puffer jacket. Plenty of pockets will keep your valuables close by and secure.

The Nano Puff is made from water-resistant fabric and packed with compressible recycled polyester insulation. When not in use, the jacket packs into its tiny carrying case. 

Champion Duofold Clothing

Champion’s Duofold clothing line is an inexpensive, high-performing collection for men and women. Its fabric is designed to trap your body heat while wicking away moisture, creating a thermal layer between the clothes and your skin to keep you warm without adding bulk. Duofold can outfit you from top to bottomT with shirts and long johns.

Under Armour’s UA Storm Fleece Gloves

Keep your hands warm but nimble with a thin glove that lets you easily grasp things with your fingers, like Under Armour’s Storm Fleece Gloves (available in men’s and women’s sizes). These water-repellent gloves provide a layer of insulation from the cold and the wet winter weather, plus feature suede tips on the thumb and index finger so you can use your phone without removing the gloves.

The post The Thinnest, Warmest Winter Clothes for Packing appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Packing the Wrong Materials

I love cotton for travel most times of the year because it’s lightweight and breathable, but it’s a terrible choice for the winter. Instead of wicking away moisture and sweat, it absorbs it, which will make you cold. Opt for warmer materials like fleece, Thinsulate, or wool. Merino wool is one of the best choices for travel, as it’s naturally odor-resistant and breathable, plus it’s less itchy than regular wool. The Icebreaker Merino 260 Quantum Long Sleeve Zip Hoodie is an example of a good layering piece made out of merino wool, and it has secure pockets to stash your cash or keys.

Forgoing a Hat

Yes, we’ve all experienced the dreaded hat hair, but if you leave your hat behind, you’re not only exposing your ears to frostbite, you’re also losing significant body heat through your uncovered head. A thermal beanie that’s made from moisture-wicking thermal wool will prevent sweaty hair and keep you toasty. Throw in a pocket-sized folding hairbrush with a mirror if you’re concerned about hat head ruining your look.

Packing the Wrong Type of Gloves

Gloves aren’t going to keep your hands warm if you keep taking them off to use your phone. Get a pair that’s touchscreen compatible, like Cevapro Winter Gloves. I like these because they’re extra warm but still have good mobility for when you need to snap a photo or send a text.

Leaving Behind Sunglasses

Since you’re not headed to the beach, you might forget to pack your sunglasses. The sun can shine brightly on freezing days too though, so be sure to pack yours. (Throw some sunscreen in there while you’re at it, as you can get sunburned in winter, especially where there’s snow on the ground.) These sunglasses fold down small, so they’re easy to pack and hard to break.

Not Bringing Multi-Use Items

Warm clothing tends to be bulkier than summertime items, so maximize your space by bringing pieces that will pull double duty. Bring items that you can wear more than once without washing (like jeans and sweatshirts), as well as clothes that can be worn in different ways. These leggings can be worn alone as pants or under a dress for warmth. Plus, they let you leave the money belt behind, as they have two side pockets plus a hidden waistband pocket to hold your passport, money, or other essentials.

Not Bringing Layers

When the temperatures are really low and the winds are really high, one layer of clothing just isn’t going to cut it. Ideally, your outfit will include a base layer (to wick away moisture and keep you dry), an insulating layer (to trap warmth), and an outer layer (to stay wind- and water-proof).

My tip: Wear fleece-lined leggings or thermal long johns under pants, with a heat-trapping shirt and a merino wool sweater plus a synthetic down jacket, and you’ll be good to go on even the coldest days. (You’ll want to choose synthetic insulation over down because real down is basically useless if it gets wet.)

Wearing the Wrong Shoes

Your shoes face a big challenge in the winter. They need to be insulated, waterproof, and warm; provide great traction in case of ice; be able to withstand salt, and be comfortable to walk in. So your sneakers aren’t going to cut it. Men, these boots from London Fog fit the bill and offer a basic black design that won’t stand out as snowshoes. For women, I like the Sorel Waterproof Boots, which are toasty-warm and supportive.

For a dressier option, try Teva’s Anaya Booties. I’m obsessed with Teva sandals, and these Chelsea-style boots are ultra-comfortable and perfect for winter, thanks to a soft and cozy microfiber lining, waterproof leather, and peppermint-based anti odor treatment that keeps them fresh after long travel days. For men, the Tusayan Chelsea Boot provides a similar elevated style while still being water-resistant.

Just remember to wear your heavier snow boots on the plane; otherwise, they’ll take up half your suitcase space.

Choosing the Wrong Coat for Your Destination

Before you pack, think about what exactly you’ll be doing on your trip and check the forecast closely. If it’s not going to be freezing, you may get overheated, especially if you’ll be doing a lot of walking, which will warm you up. (There’s nothing worse than sweating through your coat when you go from cold temperatures outside to an overheated subway train.)

Consider a lighter weight, packable winter coat instead, like this one for women, or this one for men.

Caroline Morse loves fashion but still manages to travel carry-on only. Follow her journeys around the world on Instagram @TravelWithCaroline.

All of the products featured in this story were hand-selected by our travel editors. Some of the links featured in this story are affiliate links, and SmarterTravel may collect a commission (at no cost to you) if you shop through them. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2016. It has been updated to reflect the most current information.

The post How to Avoid the Worst Cold-Weather Packing Mistakes appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Set atop the Continental Divide, Banff Sunshine Village receives so much natural snow (an average of 30 feet a year) that the resort harvests snow through a unique fencing system to capture some of the best powder in the country. The mountain is blessed with so much snow that there are only two snow guns in the entire resort (used to build a base in the lower ski-out area). 

If this sounds like the perfect vacation spot, you’re in luck. We’re giving away the ultimate snowsports bundle—a three-night ski and stay package at Banff Sunshine Village.

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The prize can be redeemed through the end of the 2024/2025 season (May 2025).

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Visit our sweepstakes page here to enter before the giveaway ends on February 27, 2024. 

Entering is easy—all you have to do is sign up for SmarterTravel and Oyster’s newsletters. (If you’re already a subscriber, you just need to enter your email address to verify your account—you won’t be signed up twice.)

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Best Warm Weather Winter Destinations

Hawaii
Sydney
St. Lucia
Costa Rica
US Virgin Islands
Maldives
Azores
Hanoi, Vietnam

Best Cold Weather Winter Destinations

Copenhagen
Paris
Switzerland
British Columbia, Canada
Yellowstone
Dolomites, Italy

Warm Weather Winter Destinations

Hawaii

Hawaii is great any time of year, but the winter is perfect because it isn’t too hot. Temperatures range from the high 70s-low 80s, meaning you’ll still get plenty of beach time while you are there. And while this is their rainiest season, it shouldn’t ruin your vacation. 

Recommended Hotel: Montage Kapalua Bay

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Sydney

It’s summer in Sydney during the winter in the U.S., so if you really hate the winter, heading down under is a great option. Of course, that means places may be busier than if you head to the northern hemisphere, but it shouldn’t stop you. It doesn’t get too hot, and you’ll have attractions like the Sydney Opera House, the Taronga Zoo, and water sports. 

Recommended Hotel: Little National Hotel Sydney

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St. Lucia

The rainy season ends at the end of December, and the temperature is in the 80s in the winter months, so you can pack your sunglasses, sunscreen, bathing suit, and enjoy a luxurious beach vacation in St. Lucia. 

Recommended Hotel: Zoetry Marigot Bay

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Costa Rica

Costa Rica can get busy during the winter months, and for good reason: the weather is glorious. So if you don’t mind crowds along with warm weather, it’s the perfect time to visit. Imagine zip-lining, hiking, or soaking in natural hot springs all while your friends and family at home are shoveling snow. 

Recommended Hotel: The Springs Resort and Spa at Arenal

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US Virgin Islands

To get away to warm weather without your passport, try the US Virgin Islands. You can laze on the beach, try your hand at water sports, and explore the island’s rich history. 

Recommended Hotel: The Westin Beach Resort & Spa at Frenchman’s Reef

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Maldives

Winter is the Maldives driest season, perfect for a getaway when things get bleak at home. You will keep yourself busy with scuba diving, laying on the beach, exploring a shipwreck and more. 

Recommended Hotel: Joy Island

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Azores

While the Azores aren’t technically a warm-weather destination (the high for winter is in the sixties), it doesn’t snow there, so this makes the warm-weather list. It’s off-peak, so the crowds are smaller. You’ll find hot springs, quaint villages, waterfalls, and dolphin-watching trips to keep you busy. 

Recommended Hotel: Grand Hotel Açores Atlântico

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Hanoi, Vietnam

While January is the coldest month in Hanoi, it is still likely going to be warmer than if you live in the Northern US—the highs are about 60 degrees Fahrenheit. There is loads of hiking to be found, you can walk around Hoan Kiem Lake or West Lake, participate in Vietnamese Tet holiday, which typically takes place at the end of January or in February. You, or course will hae to try out an egg coffee, which was first served in Hanoi in 1946 at Cafe Giang. 

Recommended Hotel: May De Ville Premier Hotel & Spa

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Cold Weather Winter Destinations

Copenhagen

For a real winter european experience, Copenhagen is a perfect choice. Quaint, with snow and chilly weather, you will get an idyllic winter wonderland when you visit Copenhagen. You can visit museums, go ice skating, wander Tivoli Gardens 

Recommended Hotel: Fiftyseven Hotel Copenhagen

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Paris

There is something magical about Europe in the winter, and Paris might just be the epicenter of that thought. So pack your warmest clothes, and get ready for shopping, museums, and delicious food. 

Recommended Hotel: Castille Paris – Starhotels Collezione

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Switzerland

A skier’s paradise, an instagrammers dream, an apres-ski loving wine drinker- whoever you are, Switzerland is for you during winter months. Don’t miss the Glacier Express, Zermatt for skiing, or Interlaken for every winter sport you can imagine: skiing, paragliding, and even winter kayaking. 

Recommended Hotel: Victoria Jungfrau Grand Hotel & Spa

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British Columbia, Canada

British Columbia has something for everyone during the winter months: skiing, city life, hot springs, shopping – no matter what kind of cold weather vacation you are looking for, British Columbia can assist. Whistler is the spot for skiers, while Vancouver has hiking, city shopping, and even a gondola ride for spectacular views. You can warm your muscles at the hot springs found throughout the province, like Harrison Lake & Hot Springs, Hot Springs Cove and Fairmont Hot Springs. 

Recommended Hotel: Fairmont Hot Springs

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Yellowstone

Yellowstone gets busy during warmer months, so why not explore the national park in the winter, when it’s quieter, yet just as beautiful. You’ll be able to see the park via skiing, snowshoeing, a snowmobile tour, or a snow coach. And don’t worry, Old Faithful still erupts during winter months, so you won’t miss that during your winter visit. 

Recommended Hotel: Old Faithful Inn

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Dolomites, Italy

Another ski-lovers paradise, Dolomites, located on the Alps,  has some of the best skiing in the world. At the resorts you’ll find black runs, family slopes, floodlit slopes and snow parks- everything  you need for the perfect winter getaway. 

Recommended Hotel: Mirabell Dolomites Hotel

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The post The 14 Best Places to Visit in Winter appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Likewise, some holiday traditions that are celebrated in Europe may seem a little bizarre to outsiders. Here are some of the strangest holiday traditions from around Europe.

Krampus, Central Europe

In case the thought of a stranger (Santa) breaking into your house through your chimney weren’t creepy enough, Austria and other central European countries have given the mythological man a sinister friend—Krampus. Krampus tags along with St. Nicholas, and while St. Nicholas doles out candy to the good kids, Krampus’ job is to punish the naughty ones.

This demonic-looking character beats bad children with birch branches or kidnaps them in his sack and takes them away, never to be seen again.

If you want to experience the true terror of Krampus, watch this movie about him (after the kids are in bed).

Mari Lwyd, Wales

Knock, knock. “Who’s there?” A horse skull puppet, and it’s challenging you to a rap battle. This is the standard scene in Wales around the Christmas season, when groups accompany a person dressed up as a horse’s body with a (hopefully) fake skull on top and go door to door asking to come in via a rhyme. The people inside the house must come up with a better rhyme response in order to win. After the battle, the Mari Lwyd (which translates to “gray mare”) and group are allowed inside and given food and drink before they head off to the next door.

The Yule Cat, Iceland

I hope you’re not trying to roll up to your Christmas celebration in last year’s clothing. If you do, prepare to be eaten by the Yule Cat. Icelandic tradition says the Yule Cat (aka Jólakötturinn, if you’re on a first-name basis with the cat) will eat anyone who hasn’t obtained new clothing by Christmas. Imagining being nibbled at by an adorable kitten for your fashion crimes? Think again: The Yule Cat is a giant beast, one that’s large enough to see into the upper windows of your house (so he can check on your clothing).

Grýla, Iceland

In case the Yule Cat wasn’t terrifying enough, Icelanders also have to contend with Grýla, the Christmas witch. According to legends, Grýla lives up in the mountains, and her hobbies include taking advantage of the dark winter days to show up in villages and steal naughty children.

It’s not just children who should fear the Christmas witch—she allegedly also ate her husband when she got bored with him.

Grýla has been around since the 1300s, but according to Terry Gunnell, the head of the Folkloristics Department at the University of Iceland, she’s still out there living her best life in the mountains. Gunnell told the Iceland Monitor, “There’s a rumor concerning Grýla, that she’s dead and has stopped eating children. I think that’s nonsense, and that she’s living a great life in the mountains still eating her human sushi.”

Perchta, Germany and Austria

In America, if you’re bad, Santa brings you a lump of coal. In Germany and Austria, though, things get more punitive.  If you misbehave, Perchta, a two-faced witch, will put on her terrifying visage and slit open your stomach, stealing your organs and filling your belly with rocks and straw. If you’re good, she’ll put on her nice face and leave you a small silver coin and your organs intact.

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2018. It has been updated to reflect the most current information.

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