Christmas Market Packing Guide

What I Packed for the Christmas Markets

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If you are planning a trip to the Christmas Markets in Germany, France, Austria, or anywhere else in Europe, you may be wondering what you should pack. Given that you will be outdoors shopping most days, packing proper outerwear and being prepared for any weather is key. You will want to be comfortable and warm from head-to-toe.

For my Christmas Market trips, I layer up each day, starting with a base of basic thermal leggings and a turtleneck or long sleeved tee, followed by my packable hooded parka. I wear my cushy Smartwool socks with my Sorel boots, in addition to the regular winter accessories: gloves, a colorful scarf, and a pom-pom hat.

A crossbody bag or a tote is also essential. Crossbody styles with an RFID pocket are nice because they are more secure when navigating large crowds. But, a tote can be helpful to have a place to collect and carry your small purchases.

Checked Hardshell Luggage

When you are choosing your luggage for the Christmas Markets, you’ll need to be thinking about what you’ll be bringing back with you on your return flight home. Hardside luggage will give you more peace of mind that your market finds will make it back safely and in one piece. I also recommend the medium 25″ size, as opposed to the carry-on size. Most international flights offer a free checked bag, so there are no excuses for not bumping up your packing capacity. However, the big kahuna size might be difficult to manage on trains. Medium is perfect:) My favorite spinners are from Travelpro.

Travelpro nPlatinum Elite Hardside Expandable Spinner Wheeled Luggage Checked Medium 25 inch

Waterproof Winter Boots

I bought my first pair of Sorel boots ages ago, and finally replaced them prior to my second trip to the Christmas Markets. I have the Sorel Torfino II in black/gum (pictured here). These were the only footwear I had with me for the entire trip. Whether you are a tall boot or mid boot person, just be sure they have a fully waterproof upper and rubberized shell so you are ready to slosh around in whatever conditions present themselves.

Packable Thigh-Length Parka

Your outerwear can make or break your trip. So, be sure you have a coat that will keep you warm, but isn’t so bulky that you can’t move around easily. I have two packable parkas that I choose between depending on the weather forecast. My lighter North Face thermoball is perfect for 30 – 40°F. Anything below that, I am packing my heavier Lands’ End winter coat.

Crossbody Bag

A crossbody bag with a sturdy, adjustable strap and durable materials is ideal for long days of shopping in possible inclement weather. I have one very similar to this and it is my go-to bag for travel adventures.

Bags Inside of Bags

I always have multiple bags floating around inside my totes and carry-ons to help keep stuff organized. I am in love with the plush cosmetic bags and jewelry rolls from Benevolence LA. Just pick out your favorite color:)

In-Flight Must-Haves

Most frequent fliers already have this category nailed down. But, if you are a prepping for your first long-haul flight, allow me to share a couple recommendations. First, a supportive neck pillow thing can be really, really helpful. It is a skosh inconvenient to carry it around with you for your entire trip, but I would not fly over an ocean without one. Other things that have helped me to stay comfortable for the journey include compression socks and a cozy cashmere scarf (because I’m always cold in airports and on planes). 🧦🧣

Thermal Base Layers

We all have our favorite athleisure and base layer brands. Mine is Kari Traa. Nothing against basic black and solid colors because I have plenty of those as well. But, I really love the patterns and colors by Kari Traa for both travel and outdoor adventures. Just make sure you have pieces that are going to wear nicely under your outerwear and keep you warm!

Luggage Scale

You will presumably be adding some heft to your packed bag as you shop your way through the markets. These little contraptions are an inexpensive way to make sure you don’t exceed any weight limits with your airline. Better to shift any extra weight to a carry-on ahead of the bag drop station. ⚖️🧳

Travel Wallet

A travel wallet that can accommodate a passport is a must when traveling abroad, especially if you will be shopping and need your passport for the VAT refunds. I look for a wallet with a zipper pocket for coins since these are more commonly used abroad. Built-in RFID liners are a must for security. If your wallet does not have built-in RFID material, these card sleeves will protect you from electronic fraud and theft.

Apple AirTags

My favorite new essential is the Apple AirTag. These little buttons slip into your wallet, backpack, luggage, or on a keychain so you never lose track of anything ever again. If you’ve ever lived through a lost baggage nightmare, meet your new best friend. There are all kinds of cute little “holders” for these guys ranging from bag charms to carabiners. More options available online from Apple.

Universal Travel Adapter

Even if you aren’t traveling with a bunch of electronics, you will at the very least need to charge your phone. Don’t assume your hotels will have USB outlets – a lot of them don’t. A universal travel adapter will not only ensure voltage to your devices is the right electrical charge, but the USB ports will minimize the need to bring your other block adapters. 🔌

Warm Socks

I pack several pairs of Smartwool socks to wear with my boots and a pair of cabin socks to wear in the evening. Since you will be on your feet all day, comfortable and warm footwear is essential. If you are prone to blistering, I also recommend packing some blister cushions.

Packable Duffle

Probably one of the most important things you will pack is an extra carry-on piece to bring back your Christmas Market purchases. To summarize, a checked-bag (with empty duffle packed inside) and personal item will go with you on the way there; a checked-back, personal item, and your filled carry-on will come back. My duffle is large enough to accommodate a large shoebox-sized box to bring back my most delicate items. The method works:)

Power Bank

Although many airports and planes now have standard electrical outlets and/or USB outlets built in, I still like to carry a back-up power bank. Additionally, when traveling, I am often away from my hotel room all day and end up running low on battery. A power bank is smart thing to carry with you to ensure you can stay connected to your apps and emergency contacts. 📱🔋

Cold Weather Gloves

My favorite gloves work with my touchscreen so I never have to take them off. I would avoid wearing anything too bulky that would be in the way of holding a mug of Glühwein. Leather or Spandex gloves with a fleece lining are perfect!

Hand Warmers

Depending on the weather forecast and your threshold for cold temperatures, hand warmers might be a nice-to-have. I have rechargeable hand warmers for my ski trips, but I haven’t needed them for the Christmas Markets. I usually throw a pair of HotHands in my luggage just in case.

Winter Hat

As far as winter weather accessories go, I usually end up purchasing a new hat (or two) at the markets. Every market usually has several stalls selling hand knit hats, mittens, scarves, and other things to keep you cozy. If you don’t already have a favorite hat in your closet, this is one purchase you may want to hold off on — and purchase while you are there.

Lip Balm & Other Essentials for your Skin

Don’t forget to pack your arsenal of lip balm, sun protection, and first aid essentials. There is always something that happens on every trip where I’m stuck with no pharmacy in sight. So, I’ve learned the hard way and always travel prepared.

There you have it! Most of these things are available on Amazon. I am somewhat addicted to Amazon Prime, so I’ve started making a lot of my shopping lists on their website. If you are more of an in-person shopper, most of these items can be found at larger retailers and outlets. Happy shopping finding all of the things to make your Christmas Market travels smooth, comfortable, organized!