What to Pack for New York in the Winter

If you're reading this and it's above 45 degrees, I'm completely jealous of you. I've been a New Yorker all of my life and although I have big dreams to hopefully be somewhere warmer one day, for now, I embrace it! Last year, I wrote a full travel guide to NYC and if you're not from around here or aren't sure what to bring with you for some seriously unpredictable weather, I got you covered! We're also mid-NYFW so if you're traveling to come see some of the awesome shows, you're likely bringing double/really in a predicament of what to bring! Here's what you *need* to make room for in your suitcase:
A warm coat: or two, or ten. ;) Coats are one of my favorite pieces to accessorize with but they can be so bulky to travel with! This is definitely not something to skip out on though (obvi!) because NY winters are *so* unpredictable. It could be 60 degrees on a Wednesday, and then blizzard-ing (can that be a word?) on Thursday. Find room in your suitcase for this one!

Cozy scarves: Layering is a must in the cold of NY, and cozy scarves are cute and stylish but also super practical and totally necessary. They're great on a really cold day and they're equally as great on a not-as-cold-but-still-cold day. ;)

Closed-toe heels, boots and shoes: I have been in NYC in January with open toe heels for a dinner event, and it was NOT fun! I don't know what made me think this was a good idea, but it wasn't. Skip the open toe heels and grab all of the fun closed-toe pumps and booties you can find!

Portable phone charger: you'll likely be using your phone to take Snapchats, your maps app to get around, texting pictures to friends and family - the list goes on - and trust me it isn't all that easy to find an available outlet in NYC! I always bring my portable charger when I go into the city and it's always a life saver, every single time.

Waterproof boots: luckily there's tons of cute snow boots out there - BRING THEM! There is nothing worse than dirty, slushy snow on the streets of New York. Seriously. Snow is pretty for the first day, and then it's absolutely disgusting. If you're going to be doing a lot of walking, these are an absolute must in your suitcase.

A cute and cozy hat: again, the NYC weather in the winter is completely unpredictable. It definitely doesn't hurt to bring a few cute hats with you! I love accessorizing with hats in the winter and they're just as cute as they are practical.

Sunglasses: even with all of the unpredictable weather, it can still be really sunny in the winter here!

Crossbody/Shoulder bags: this may sound silly, but when I'm super bundled up I can never keep a bag on my shoulder. Is it just me?! I don't know what it is, but it's so hard with a big bulky coat. I love crossbody bags and if you bring a shoulder bag, make sure the strap is long/thick enough that it doesn't slide down your arm. As sad as it is, you really have to watch your surroundings at all times in the city and it's that much easier if your bag isn't falling off of your shoulder. If you go with a crossbody, you really dont have to worry because you can keep an eye on it at all times and don't risk it falling off your shoulder without you realizing!

Cozy sweaters: whether it's 10 degrees and freezing or 45 degrees and you can layer it with a lightweight coat or vest, cozy and cute sweaters are must haves. In fact, if these are the only types of tops you bring, you'll be good to go! Bring some options that can be dressed up or down depending on occasion too.

Skincare favorites: I know it can be so hard to travel with skincare and beauty products, but most especially if your skin isn't used to the cold - you'll want to have your normal routine on your trip! If anything, don't forget the moisturizer!

Tech gloves: these have become so popular over the last few years and I LOVE them! They're so convenient, especially on a cold day where you're being a tourist. ;) They make everything much easier; you can still navigate your way around the city via your phone while your hands are nice and warm.

If you're planning a trip to New York while it's still absolutely freezing - good luck! ;) It's beautiful no matter what time of year you come, and if you pack right - you'll have a blast! Make sure to check out my ultimate guide to NYC too for more tips and tricks!
XOXO