If you’re planning a trip that involves some frigid wintery temperatures, it’s important to pack your suitcase with comfort in mind as well as style. The last thing that you want on your vacation is to be miserable in the elements.

Fortunately, there are ways to make the most of even small suitcases that will keep you warm and comfortable during your cold weather adventures. If you’re bringing a large bag, you can fit extra items but even then, you may not need much more if you know how to mix and match. Our guide will help you pack for your next cold weather trip.

What to Pack for Cold Weather

Know what essentials you need to take on the cold weather during your trip.

1. Coats and Outerwear - Even if you don’t need a jacket when you depart, if you’re headed to a cold weather destination, this is an item you’ll want to keep handy on the plane. Don’t freeze as you wait for a taxi or to be picked up. Instead, keep your coat or jacket accessible by including it in your carry-on luggage or bag. Most airlines will not count a jacket or coat as a bag and let you still bring other essentials to keep at your seat. If your coat is particularly large, try to get space in the overhead bin to keep it contained.

1. Pack Warm Socks - Don’t forget to take care of your feet, especially in cold weather. Warm socks can help your feet stay warm in super cold temperatures. If you’re used to wearing lighter footwear, you might need to pack something that can handle the elements. This is especially important if you’re going to a place with snow or ice on the ground. Trekking through slush in open-toed shoes or sandals is no way to enjoy a vacation.

1. Layers Are Key - Many cold weather destinations have indoor locations that know how to keep people cozy, even when it’s freezing outside. If you only bring parkas and heavy sweaters, you might find yourself sweating anytime you spend time inside. Dress in layers that are easy to adjust based on the temperature where you are. When you’re spending time outdoors, put on more layers. When you’re inside in a climate controlled room, use fewer layers.

1. Keeping things snug - Cold weather gear almost always takes up more real estate in your suitcase than warm weather items like t-shirts and bathing suits. So you may need to opt for a larger suitcase if you’re hitting the slopes rather than laying on the beach. Packing Cubes can help you make the most of the available space. Rolling certain items is also a good strategy that can get more to fit in the same bag. Look for overlooked and hidden spaces, such as the inside of shoes, to fit smaller items like socks.

Packing Like a Pro: The 54321 Method

Learn how many of each item you’ll need for a versatile minimalist wardrobe on your trip.

1. Five Tops - Tops are one of the items you’ll use and need the most. Five tops will usually do and you can reuse them if you’re able to do laundry while on your trip. For cold weather travel, start with a few basic layers, such as long sleeve shirts in simple patterns or solid colors. Add a couple of heavier tops that you can pair with other items for occasions that call for extra warmth.

1. Four Bottoms - Your lower half should be warm, especially if you’re heading somewhere cold. This means that you’ll probably get more use out of pants or skirts with heavy tights than you will shorts. Consider what you plan to do when you think about how formal or casual you want to go. Just like with your tops, it’s a good idea to stick with basic colors and textures that look good with a variety of items.

1. Three Pairs of Shoes - Shoes tend to take up a lot of space in your suitcase, so packing pairs that you’ll get a lot of use out of is important. Unless you have a specific event in mind, it’s probably best to leave strappy shoes at home, since these do little to keep you warm. Instead, choose footwear that provides the right amount of coverage and comfort, especially if you know that you’ll be walking through snow. Boots are a good option to wear, since they take up a lot of room in your bag.

• Two Dresses or Handbags - For women, two dresses are usually enough for most trips, although this can vary by personal preference. The key here is to pick two big ticket items, whether it’s a dress or a handbag, that can pull an entire outfit together. Pant suits can do the same thing for those who prefer a different look. In any case, make sure that it’s an item you’re comfortable wearing in cold weather. For handbags, it’s also important to know how to care for your bag if it gets wet from rain, snow, or ice.

1. One Set of Accessories - This is where things can get fun with your packing but also where many people stray from a strict 54321 method. You can create a signature look by packing one set that you’ll use with all of your outfit combinations. Others like to bring a few additional pieces that help turn similar outfits into distinct looks. Either way, accessories typically take up little space in your suitcase, so the choice is up to you.

Getting ready to go to a cold weather destination, especially if you’re normally a beach bunny or from a warmer locale, can take some extra know-how and planning. But packing the right items in the right way can help you take advantage of everything that your vacation offers while staying warm and comfortable.