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winter scotland

If you’re planning a holiday in the UK this winter, there’s a few things you ought to be aware of. Firstly, it’ll be cold, bloomin’ cold. And secondly, it’ll be wet, very wet actually. With this in mind, it’s important to invest a bit more time in planning and preparing for your winter break. Whether you’re taking a sojourn on the English Riviera in Devon, or hiking in the Cairngorms, you’ll need clothing and luggage that can withstand the harsh snap of a British winter. That’s why, Sykes Cottages have come up with a helpful guide offering a few tips on how to make the most of your UK holiday. Because aside from all the pouring rain, the heavy hail showers and the dense, icy fog, there’s a beautiful country waiting to be discovered, and we want you to enjoy it every step of the way!

Step 1- Planning

Cairngorm

Via Flickr

Unlike summer holidays when you could get away with only carrying your swimwear and a tube of sun lotion, winter holidays require a little more planning- especially if you’re travelling with kids! Writing a good old list is a great way to keep track of the comings and goings of your winter luggage, and will help you avoid overlooking any last minute essentials. If you want to be really prepared, many websites now offer printable PDF travel checklists which you can customise to suit the needs of your party; ideal for the fastidious traveller!

Step 2- Packing

freeform suitcase

Via Flickr

Getting winter woollies, wellies and booties into a single suitcase is no mean feat and can leave many spending hours perched atop their luggage trying to close the zip. So, how do you avoid the inevitable suitcase tussle? One simple way to side-step the hassle and get the zip shut quick is to pack thin layers of clothing rather than bulky pullovers. For years, intrepid explorers and wise old wives have been berating the world about the benefits of layering clothing instead of wearing a single thick pullover, and it seems they were right! To keep your core warm on your winter holiday, swap the woolly jumper for a couple of layers of lightweight thermals, and watch the space in your suitcase magically reappear! As for wellies and the other bulky items, use spacious shopping bags and sling them in the boot- simple!

Step 3- Travelling

Driving in the Snow

Via Flickr

At Sykes, we think one of the many joys of a UK holiday is that they start as soon as you leave your front door; in theory anyway. If you’re travelling with young children however, that can be a different story. If you need a quick distraction to get your gang quietly over the 200 mile mark, pack a backpack of fun, car friendly activities such as colouring books and mini board games. Or, create an impressive car picnic; because nothing distracts children like a bit of nosh! For couples, compile a playlist of your favourite tunes and enjoy a relaxing journey through some of the country’s most beloved wintry landscapes- bliss!

We hope this guide to packing for a winter holiday has been helpful. If you’re planning a winter break in the UK, be sure to take a look at our superb range of self-catering holiday cottages and winter short breaks!

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