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Our TFG readers have some of the best packing tips! If you’re wondering what to wear in Russia in winter, take a look at what they recommend you bring for your vacation.
What to Wear in Russia in Winter
Travel Fashion Help!
Reader Asks:
I’m heading to Russia this winter and could really do with some advice on what to pack for my trip. I’ll be there for two weeks visiting the main tourist areas like Moscow and St Petersburg and would like to pack carry-on only. Any suggestions on what to wear in Russia in winter?
WEATHER
Eliza J Faux Fur Coat | Ellen Tracey Faux Fur Down Coat
Winter in Russia tends to run from December to February and can make you feel like you’re in a snow-covered fairytale. The weather is generally cold and wet, and the streets of Moscow and St. Petersburg are likely to be covered in snow.
The temperatures in these areas can drop down to 14°F, and St. Petersburg can be considerably colder than Moscow, so you need to be ready for changing weather conditions.
These tips will help you pack for cold weather in a carry-on despite the weather.
Some winters in Russia can be extreme–the temperature can fall to -22°F. Always, always, always research the weather for each location before you go to see what the average temperatures will be.
Once you’ve researched the weather, you can focus on creating a travel capsule wardrobe, which should easily fit in a carryon suitcase with the help of packing cubes to compress your clothing.
Be prepared to wrap up warmly throughout this time of year and use plenty of layers to help you adjust to the changing weather.
Read this to learn exactly how to stay warm in cold weather!
CLOTHES
Carson Pass II Jacket | Della Fall Mid Jacket | Michael Kors Coat
To battle the wet weather, pack a raincoat that is big enough to allow you to wear layers underneath. Look for something that works double-duty such as a waterproof down jacket.
Wool and alpaca are great materials to pack for a winter in Russia; they don’t freeze when wet are are great in snowy environments. Read more about the best fabrics for travel in cold weather.
If you like wearing dresses, then opt for ones made with merino wool. We absolutely love Ibex dresses!
I practically wore this merino wool dress every single day in Paris!
Halogen Tunic Sweater | Sejour Neck Sweater | Ventura Sweater Dress
Pack some wooly tights to keep your legs nice and warm. Don’t be afraid to double up on tights, too. You can use this trick for any cold weather destination using tights of different thicknesses. Here are some tips on how to layer dresses!
A wool cardigan or hoodie is another way to layer under a raincoat. Use these tips on cold weather layering to choose items that will keep you warm without the bulk. Just because an item’s fabric is thicker it doesn’t mean it will keep you warmer.
Ibex Woolies Crew Shirt | Ibex Woolies Bottom
Consider packing merino wool thermals like these to wear under your clothes, especially if you’re sensitive to the cold. These will keep you extra warm and barely need to be washed, making them an awesome addition to your travel wardrobe.
These are the warmest thermals!
Check Scarf | Nubby Blanket Scarf | Lightweight Square Scarf
Pack several scarves as these are ideal for accessorizing and can be used to cover up if you’re planning on doing some church visits (your head will need to be covered when entering churches). Opt for a versatile and fashionable blanket scarf that’s both practical and in trend, too.
Add these stylish winter scarves to your collection!
SHOES
Adirondack Waterproof Boot | Hoodoo III Winter Boot
Winter waterproof snow boots would be optimal for this trip, as they often have a strong grip on the sole and an inner lining to keep you extra toasty. If you’re heading out for dinner and want a dressier look, then pack a pair of leather ankle boots with grip to get you across slippery streets.
Avoid heels and don’t pack cheap shoes as you could easily slip over and the cold temperature could make the shoe soles freeze and split.
Halogen Scarf | Echo Gloves | Fold-over Beanie
Moscow and St. Petersburg can be covered in snow throughout the winter, so you’ll need shoes that are both waterproof and warm. Pair them with warm wool socks to keep your feet from freezing!
Don’t forget to finish off your cold weather wardrobe with hats and gloves. Here are some ideas!
What are your tips on what to wear in Russia in winter?
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For more packing tips, please visit these Europe Packing Lists:
- The Ultimate Packing Guide for Europe
- How to Choose the Best Walking Shoes in Europe
- What to Wear in Paris in Winter
- Italy Packing List with Capsule Wardrobes
Suggested Travel Resources:
I am traveling to Russia(St. Petersburg and Moscow) and the Arctic Circle in January. I have a long heavy faux fur coat and a long down coat with a hood. Which one to take? Thanks. CSN, Cleveland
Hi Charlotte, to get you the best advice I have scheduled your question on TFG’s facebook page, our readers are the best at answering questions like this, so keep an eye out for their replies from Sunday: https://www.facebook.com/TravelFashionGirl/ You may also find this post helpful: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/arctic-clothing-extreme-cold-weather-gear-for-women/ Hope this helps! Have an amazing trip!! 🙂
I spent two weeks in Moscow and then rode the trans-Siberian railroad in the winter of 1984, on my way home from Africa. With a few stops along the way to Japan. I carried only a mid-size backpack. My winter wardrobe was a pair of wool pants, the 13-button kind from the US Navy. Thermal long underwear (top and bottoms). Two button-up long-sleeved shirts, two cotton sweaters. Wool-lined short boots. Hat, scarf, mittens, and a waterproof unlined jacket. That was it. I rotated shirts and sweaters, but wore the same pants for about 2 or 3 months, with the long johns underneath (washed frequently). I was warm even at -70 F because I walked everywhere. Though my feet got cold walking on the ice on Lake Baikal.
And I wore these outfits to the Bolshoi ballet as well as the opera. It was winter, no one was dressing up.
Pretty much wore the same clothes in Japan, where it was still snowy and cold. By the time I got to Okinawa, it was warming up and I threw away the long underwear as well as the wool pants. Gave me more space in my pack for things I bought as I travelled Asia a bit.
Wow this sounds like an incredible trip Phebe! Thanks so much for sharing! I’ve been itching to do the Trans-Siberian!
I lived in Moscow for 6 years. I’d skip the raincoat and just take a waterproof down coat that goes down to mid thigh. You could have an umbrella for the snow if you really want, but it probably won’t be above freezing. Cardigans over a shirt and/or thermals are better than sweaters. Also, if you wear any boots but tall leather ones, you’ll stand out as a tourist. Leather ankle boots will most likely be cold. Treat the boots with leather protector before you go and stuff them with newspaper if they get wet. Double socks are recommended. Warm, furry inserts are even better. Skinny jeans or pants that you can tuck into the boots are better than bootcut ones because they won’t get so dirty.
Great advice! Thanks for sharing Carrie!
When you say tall, do we mean knee high or calf high?
I’ve taken 6 trips to Russia in the winter. Most important advice–dress in layers! It’ll be freezing outside but most buildings are over-heated inside.
Also bring the warmest coat you have.
Finally, winter starts before December. I was in St P a few years ago during the first week of November and it was snowing. By December it’s bitter cold.
Great advice! Thank you for the additions Rebecca!
I’d love to see something for packing for a Russian river cruise in May!!
I’ll add it to the list Julie! So many topic so little time! Thanks for reading!