No doubt many of you head to the Southern Lakes or the Mackenzie Country for your winter getaway, and although these areas are particularly idyllic, they can also be extremely cold.
Here's a guide on what to pack to stylishly avoid hypothermia.
Trousers: Packing your favourite pair of comfy jeans - skinny jeans or jeggings can be dressed up or down - is a must for any holiday. Also, a pair of merino joggers offer a warm, stylish and versatile addition to your holiday wardrobe.
Comfortable underwear: You'll want to ensure you pack your most comfortable cotton underwear before you go, especially if your trip is focused on adventuring and exploring.
Mid-layer: A warm, lightweight wool cardigan or fleece is handy to put on over the PJs in the mornings while you have a cup of tea, or stick under your coat if particularly cold.
Thermals: An absolute essential if you don't want to freeze your butt off. A good set of thermals should feel soft on your skin and manage moisture to regulate your temperature - think merino and silk. They're also lightweight, and easy to care for, which is key when you're away on holiday.
Knitwear: Keep yourself snug with stylish knitwear; something in merino will regulate your temperature.
Coat: Possibly the most important item of your winter holiday packing is a warm coat. As it gets pretty damn cold around the lakes, a jacket containing an element of wool or down will keep you well insulated, and is a great cover-up when you don't feel like making much of an effort with your outfit. If you are heading out adventuring a waterproof/windproof jacket is a must.
Dress: A warm, versatile dress, in a fabric which doesn't crease, will prove mighty handy while you're away. Anything in merino, wool or a heavy-duty cotton (with thermal underneath) can easily be transformed from a day out shopping to night simply by changing your footwear from sneakers to heels and adding some jewellery.
Sneakers: No doubt you'll be doing plenty of exploring on foot, whether it's just perusing the local cafes and bars or taking a scenic walk. Either way, a good pair of comfortable shoes that can stand up to the test of rain and snow is essential.
Boots: In case you go out, you'll probably want to wear something other than the sneakers you've been traipsing around in all day. A pair of on-trend winter boots will transform your outfit instantly. Especially handy are ones that can be dressed up or down whatever the occasion - ankle boots are a great easy pack solution.
Gloves and hat: Keep your hands warm with a toasty pair of gloves (think waterproof if you are heading up the moutain or into the bush). Fingerless ones make things a bit more convenient if you are doing the urban relaxation thing. Although it is a fallacy we lose most of our heat through our head, if it's left uncovered it will contribute to your feeling the chill. There are a multitude of styles out there, so make sure your hat keeps your ears warm.
Sunglasses: Sunglasses are essential at any time of the year, especially when the sun is lower in the sky. Avoid glare - important if you are heading up the slopes - and hide tired I-haven't-had-enough-sleep eyes.
Travel bag: Pack all your belongings into a quality travel bag. Ensuring it is good quality is important, particularly if you're going to jam as much into it as possible. There's nothing more annoying than overpacking and having the straps on your luggage break and finding you have to carry your bag around like an oversized baby.
Socks: Needless to say, fine, not-too-bulky socks (again wool is a good option), possibly two pairs, will keep the cold out.
Scarf: A cosy scarf will keep your neck warm and is also a great lightweight option to dress up an outfit.
Cosy PJs: There's nothing like getting into a comfy pair of PJs - think brushed cotton or the multitude of fun, printed longjohns around - and sliding in between fresh clean sheets after a day on the mountain or out adventuring.
