Traveling in Colder Climates

by Renee Dietz | More from this Blogger

23 Oct 2006 07:48 PM

As we think about what clothing to take along for trips to colder climates, it is best to think of dressing in layers, with lighter clothing underneath and long sleeves/jackets on the outside. This allows us to be prepared for winds that might come up and for the naturally cool temperatures at higher elevations. However, if needed, the jacket, cap, and gloves can easily be removed and stashed in a small backpack or shoulder bag when it warms up.

I made a few mistakes in my cold-weather travel, so I thought I would pass them on to you. One thing I did wrong was leave a good pair of leather gloves (with fur lining) somewhere in the Colorado Mountains. I put them down for a moment when things got warm and by the time I remembered them, unfortunately, they were too far behind to go back for them. Lucky for me, I was able to go the rest of the day without them. In addition, we were staying in a cabin near "civilization" so I could buy another pair of good gloves, although not as nice as the ones I lost.

When I was planning this trip, I went out in search of a good pair of boots, as well. Okay, mistake number two of not listening to the excellent salesperson who desperately tried to persuade me to spend about $10 to $15 dollars more and get slightly higher quality hiking boots. Let's just say that I struggled with those cheaper boots on a couple of long walks in very beautiful mountains and actually cursed once or twice during a hike when I thought about those extra dollars I SHOULD have spent. The money was in my wallet, doing me absolutely no good - I wish they had been on my feet!

Spending time outdoors in colder climates is fun but you definitely want to be dressed for the occasion. The key with colder temperatures is again to layer. This way, you have protection when needed but the ability to remove some as the day wears on.

Visiting Pikes Peaks - Colorado

Camping in Estes Park, Colorado

A Trip To The Mountains

Learn more about Renee Dietz

I have been a successful, published writer for the past 26 years, offering a writing style that is informative, creative, and reader-friendly.

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