Cracking ideas for winter holiday inspiration

Where is the year going? The months are flying by, winter is on the horizon and restaurants are already promoting Christmas bookings!

If you feel that you need to escape over the festive period or booking a New Year break, it’s time to start planning!

Here are some tips to help you choose the perfect destination and make packing simple and stress-free…

When it comes to winter holidays, there are incredible options in abundance.

Winter sports

If you’re all about action and adventure, you may be desperate to try winter sports.

Popular ski spots include Switzerland, Canada, France, and Austria. You can also take advantage of amazing snowboarding facilities in most of these areas, and it’s always worth taking time out to go hiking too.

Finland is a spectacular destination, which offers an array of exhilarating outdoor pursuits.

Go snowmobiling or book a husky safari in Lapland, or try your hand at ice fishing. You can also enjoy some of the world’s best cross-country skiing here.

Or how about a trip to Australasia? New Zealand is the place to be if you thrive on adrenaline rushes and pushing your body to the limits. Head to Queenstown to take on a bungee jump, go skydiving or try snowboarding – while you still can!

Seeing the Northern Lights

Many of us dream of seeing the Northern Lights, including myself.

We might have seen photographs and heard tales from other travellers, but there’s nothing like seeing and experiencing them for yourself.

You’ll need to head towards the Arctic Circle for the best views and hope for clear skies and aurora activity.

In some cases, it may be possible to see the lights without straying far from your hotel. However, often, it’s best to book a guided tour.

What to pack

If you type ‘how cold is Lapland in winter?’ into a search engine, you’ll soon get an idea of what to pack.

It’s mighty cold there – and not just a little chilly at night. We’re talking temperatures well below freezing.

If you’re travelling to Scandinavia or visiting New Zealand in the winter, thermals are a must. Take plenty of warm layers and a thick waterproof jacket.

You’ll also need warm socks, gloves, and hats. If you’re going snowmobiling, it’s a good idea to pack a balaclava too.

If you’re going on a ski holiday, you’ll need to take all the gear with you, or hire it when you get out there.

It’s also a good idea to take some casual clothing for the evenings, and some sturdy walking boots.

Once you’ve got your clothing and footwear sorted, pack a first aid kit, your camera, and spare batteries.

If you’re planning to capture images of the Northern Lights, you’ll find some useful information and tips online.

Holidays are not all about beach resorts and sightseeing. There’s a wealth of options available for those looking to embrace the chilly climes and discover a different type of getaway.

Think about the kinds of activities you want to try, and look at trips and flights online. Once you’ve chosen a destination, you can start digging out those thermals and counting down the days.

Happy holiday hunting!