2022 Travel Capsule Wardrobe: The Only Pieces You Need

If you're planning on traveling during the winter months, it's important to pack accordingly. A winter capsule wardrobe is perfect for keeping you warm and comfortable while on the road. In this blog post, we will discuss the different pieces that you'll need in your suitcase to stay stylish and weather-appropriate. I'll also provide packing tips to make sure everything fits nicely into your bag!

What to Think About When Building Your Winter Capsule Wardrobe

The first step to creating a winter capsule wardrobe is to think about the types of clothing that you'll need. Consider both your everyday needs and any special occasions that you might have while on your trip. For example, if you're traveling for business, you'll want to pack a few nice outfits for meetings or presentations. If you're planning on doing any sightseeing, make sure to pack comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing.

This Capsule wardrobe has everything I brought for my 2-week winter vacation to Paris, Istanbul, and Jordan. So it includes everything you'll need for exploring in the cold desert, strolling through a fashion-forward city, and spending time in a bustling, coastal, Middle Eastern city. Plus, it fits perfectly in a single check-in bag, so you can save money (and your back) by avoiding excess baggage fees. And I listed out some different recommendations for every type of budget. Here is an easy visual checklist for you to follow while packing:

Outerwear

Since it's Winter, you'll need some good quality outerwear to keep you warm. I recommend bringing two coats and wearing one of them onto the plane to save space in your suitcase. You can store it underneath the seat in front with your small personal item, or even ball it up and use it as a pillow for the flight.

Black Puffer Jacket

A black puffer jacket is a winter staple. Most of you probably already have one in your closet, but if you don't – invest in one! It's perfect for layering and will keep you warm in even the coldest weather. The short-cropped puffer is very in style right now, but any length will do. Here are some options for black puffer jackets if you're looking to buy one:

• Tanming Women's Casual Puffer on Amazon

• Ultra Light Down Puffer Parka from Uniqlo

• Hooded Puffer Coat at Nordstoms

• Nautica Ladie's Puffer Jacket at Costco

Beige Wool Trench Coat

I also recommend bringing a wool coat. It's more fashionable than a puffer jacket and can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. Plus, it's great for layering. I recommend a camel or beige color, as it will go with everything in your wardrobe.

Here are some recommendations for beige trench coats:

• Chouyatou Elegant Notched Collar Double Breasted Wool Blend Over Coat on Amazon

• Wantdo Women's Double Breasted Winter Mid-Long Trench Coat with Belt on Amazon

• Boiled Wool-Blend Top Coat from J Crew

• Blended Hooded Soft Coat from Zara

Tops

Since you'll be layering most of your clothing, you won't need to bring a lot of tops. I recommend bringing a mix of shirts, sweaters, and tanks. You can mix and match these pieces to create different looks for different occasions.

Sweaters

You'll need a few sweaters to layer under your coats. I recommend a mix of lighter and heavier-weight sweaters. You can never go wrong with a good white turtleneck, but feel free to mix in some colors and patterns as well. Here are some recommendations for cute sweaters and turtlenecks.

• Cable-knit Sweater from H&M

• Elida Luxe Turtleneck Top from Banana Republic

• Pima Micro-rib Turtleneck Top from Everlane

• Pretty Garden Women's Fashion long Sleeve Ribbed Knit Sweater On Amazon

• Mafulas Women's Oversized Crewneck Sweater on Amazon

• Qualfort Women's Oversized Lantern Sleeve Sweater on Amazon

Bodysuits

I always pack at least two bodysuits to wear under my jeans. They're great for layering and provide a seamless look. I recommend a black, white, or neutral color, as they'll go with everything in your wardrobe. Here are some recommendations for bodysuits:

• Long Sleeve Mock Neck Bodysuit from Abercrombie

• Body Contour Silky V-Neck Long Sleeve Thong Bodysuit from Express

• Mangopop Square Neck Long Sleeve Body Suit on Amazon

• Bleeker Bodysuit from Vuori

Tank Tops

I always pack a few tank tops to wear under sweaters or bodysuits. They are great for layering and help keep me warm without adding too much bulk. I usually pack a mix of colors and materials so I have options depending on the outfit I'm wearing. My favorite tank tops are from Garage, but American Apparel and H&M have great options as well.

• Sofi Seamless V-neck Cami Top from Garage

• Layering Camisole from Banana Republic

• Tank Tops at Abercrombie

• Gembera Women's Basic Spaghetti Strap Cropped Camisole on Amazon

Bottoms

Jeans or Pants

You'll need a few pairs of jeans and pants to get you through your trip. I recommend packing at least one pair of dark wash jeans and one pair of light wash jeans. If you're looking for more of a styled look, opt for a pair of tailored pants. Here are some recommendations for women's jeans and pants:

• Good Petite Cut Never Fade Jeans from Good American

• Tailored Wide Leg Pants from Abercrombie

• Tronjori Women's High Waist Casual Wide Leg Pant on Amazon

Leggings

I always pack at least two pairs of leggings to wear on the plane and for more active days. I like to pack one pair of black leggings and one pair in neutral color. I usually pack a pair of Lululemon or Fabletics leggings, since they are comfortable and last a long time. Here are some other options for leggings that I like:

• The Perform 24/7 Legging from Everlane

• The Daily Legging from Vuori

• Women's Capilene Thermal Weight Bottoms from Patagonia

• Ododo's Women's Crosswaist Yoga Leggings on Amazon

Skirts and Tights

I like to pack one or two versatile skirts to wear on days when I want to dress up a bit. I usually go for a black or navy midi skirt. Pair it with a sweater and tights for a warm and stylish outfit. Tights are important for keeping you warm in the winter, but make sure to get fleece-lined tights so you don't freeze! Here are some recommendations for skirts and tights:

• Low Rise Mini Skirt from Zara

• Yong Go Faux Suede Vintage Skirt on Amazon

• Fleece Lined Women's Tights on Amazon

Dresses

I'm a big fan of dresses because they're so easy to style and they can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. I recommend bringing one or two dresses, depending on what you're planning on doing. Here are some great options for winter dresses that won't break the bank:

• Crewneck Sweater from GAP

• Lillusory Turtleneck Knit Sweater Dress on Amazon

• Libra Knit Dress from Reformation

• Eyelash Sweater Dress from Banana Republic

• Steve Madden Abbie Sweater Dress at Bloomingdales

Shoes

Shoes take up arguably the most space and weight in your suitcase, so it's important to pack wisely. I recommend bringing a mix of comfortable and stylish shoes that can be worn with multiple outfits.

Everyday Shoes

You'll need a comfortable pair of shoes to walk around in all day. I recommend a pair of versatile shoes that can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. A good pair of sneakers is always a great option, and I recommend getting a pair that has some waterproofing to them in case you run into any rain or snow. And I recommend wearing these shoes on the plane to be the most comfortable. Here are some of my favorite versatile shoes for travel:

• Women's Waterproof City Scape Classics from Vessi

• Wool Runner from Allbirds

Booties

A pair of stylish booties are a must for any winter trip. They'll keep your feet warm and add a touch of style to any outfit. I recommend getting a pair in a neutral color like black, brown, or grey. That way, they'll go with everything in your wardrobe. Here are some of my favorite booties for travel:

• Aeryn Suede Pointed-Toe Mid Calf Boots from Lulu's

• Laguna Chelsea Boot from Sam Edelman

• Enverna Suede Bootie from Vince Camuto

Accessories

Now that you have the essentials for your capsule wardrobe, it's time to accessorize! Winter is the perfect time to break out the scarves, hats, and gloves. But don't forget the basics like sunglasses and bags. Here are some of my favorite winter travel accessories.

Bags

I always pack a small crossbody bag, a cute mini backpack, and a larger tote bag. The crossbody bag is perfect for days when you only need to carry a few essentials. The mini backpack is great for carrying around your snacks, and a jacket on days when you'll be doing a lot of walking. The tote bag is perfect for carrying everything you need on a day trip or for carrying any extra items on the plane. Here are some recommendations for bags:

• The Sport Pack from Beis

• Darcell Branded Webbing Satchel Cross Body Bag from Ted Baker

• Vavin PM Cross Body from Louis Vuitton

• Roulons Small Crossbody Bag on Amazon

• Leila Dome Leather Backpack from Kate Spade

• Montsouris Backpack from Louis Vuitton

• Dakota Neoprene Backpack from Dagne Dover

Scarves

Scarves are totally necessary for staying warm in the winter. But they can also add a pop of color or pattern to any outfit. I recommend packing a few scarves that can be worn in multiple ways. My favorite scarf to wear on the plane is a larger cashmere shawl. Then you can use it as a blanket during your flight. Here are some of my favorite scarves for winter:

• Wander Agio Women's Warm Blanket Scarf on Amazon

• Love Lakeside Cashmere Feel Winter Scarf on Amazon

• Veronz Super Soft Classic Cashmere Winter Scarf on Amazon

Beanies and Hats

A cute beanie or hat is the perfect way to accessorize any winter outfit. It will also keep you warm on days when you don't feel like doing your hair. I usually pack one beanie and one hat to take on my trip. Since I went to Paris, I made sure to bring a couple of burettes! Here are some other cute beanie and hat options:

• Furtalk Women's Winter Knitted Beanie on Amazon

• CC Thick Cable Knit Faux Fur Pom Fleece Beanie on Amazon

• Love Your Melon Beanie

Gloves or Mittens

You'll need a pair of gloves or mittens to keep your hands warm in the winter. I usually pack one pair of gloves that are waterproof and touch-screen compatible. That way, they'll keep my hands warm and dry if I run into any rain or snow. Here are some of my favorite gloves for travel:

• Waterproof Knit Gloves from Vessi

• Funky Junque Knit Mittens on Amazon

Jewelry

I like to pack a few simple pieces of jewelry that I can wear with multiple outfits. Winter is the perfect time to break out the statement earrings or layers of necklaces. Jewelry takes up almost no space, and I usually fill up my travel jewelry box with pieces I already own. But if you're in need of some new jewelry, here are a few of my favorites:

• Freshwater Pearl Bolo Bracelet from Blue Nile

• Layered Opal Necklace from Mejuri

• Turandos Dainty Layered Choker Necklace on Amazon

• Gold Hoops Earrings Set on Amazon

• Priscilla Ma Jewelry

Sunglasses

Make sure to pack a pair of sunglasses for your winter trip! The sun can be just as bright in the winter, and you'll want to protect your eyes from the glare. I recommend getting a pair or two with polarized lenses. That way, you'll be able to see clearly and reduce any eye strain. Here are a few of my favorite sunglasses for winter:

• Women's Cat Eye Mirrored Reflective Sunglasses on Amazon

• SOJOS Classic Round Sunglasses on Amazon

• Ray Ban Sunglasses

• Quay Sunglasses

Tips for Packing for Your Winter Trip

Invest in a Good Quality Suitcase

This will save you a lot of headaches in the long run. I recommend getting one with good wheels, a rechargeable battery, and a lifetime warranty. I love my Away Suitcase, but there are lots of great options out there.

Pack Light

You don't need to pack your whole closet for your winter trip. Make a packing list before you start packing. This will help you make sure you don't forget anything important, but it will also make sure you don't bring too many unnecessary items. Winter clothes tend to be bulkier than summer clothes, so it's easy to go over the weight limit on your luggage. Stick to versatile pieces that can be mixed and matched to create multiple outfits.

Pack Smart

Roll your clothes and get packing cubes. This is the best way to save space in your suitcase. It also helps to prevent wrinkles. Packing cubes will also help you stay organized while you're on the road.

Wear Your Bulkiest Items on the Plane

If you're traveling in the winter, chances are you'll be bringing some bulky items. To save space in your suitcase, wear your heaviest and bulkiest items on the plane. This includes coats, hats, scarves, and sweaters.

Check the Weather Before You Pack

This seems like a no-brainer, but you'd be surprised how many people don't do it. Make sure to check the weather forecast for your destination before you start packing. That way, you'll know what to expect and can pack accordingly.

Pack Your Toiletries in a Clear Bag

You'll need to take your toiletries with you when you travel. But they can be a pain to pack. To make things easier, invest in a clear toiletry bag. That way, you can see everything at a glance and know exactly what you need to pack. This toiletries bag from Kitsch is my absolute favorite since they come with pouches, pump tubes, spray tubes, and small containers to maximize space, and it's all TSA-approved already.

Invest in a Good Makeup Bag

This is another one of those items that will make your life so much easier. A good makeup bag will keep all of your makeup organized and in one place. I like this travel makeup bag from Beis because it is super structured and spacious enough for everything, with a large mirror. They also have a softshell hanging bag that's perfect for traveling as well.

Don't forget to pack your essentials for winter travel! A good quality suitcase, packing cubes, and a clear toiletry bag will make packing a breeze. And make sure to check the weather forecast before you start packing so you can be prepared for anything.

What are your essential items for winter travel? Let me know in the comments below!