February winter in Japan: Three layers on top and two on the bottom.

One of the most difficult things you can do when traveling with an infant is to go to a winter destination. While it can be quite lovely, especially with fresh fallen snow, younger kids are more difficult to dress during this season. Packing is an even more difficult task because winter clothes are extremely bulky. Here are our tips for dressing your baby for winter travel:

• Layering is an art for any parent traveling with a baby. This is a useful skill whether you are traveling during winter or summer, but becomes even more important during winter months. Remember, if you are going indoors and outdoors constantly during your sightseeing trips, you will need to take bulky jackets on and off. Even if it is just a short trip in an heated indoor environment, you need to take off at least one layer to prevent prespiration. Sweaty kids end up colder when they go back out in the snow.
• Wind protection is important. Do not underestimate the cold draft from a snow storm or simply the chilly winter wind. Protect your little ones with a light face mask and ear muffs. If a face mask is not available, a wool scarf can help. When covering up, ensure that there is no difficulty breathing.
• Steer clear of cotton. Depending on the temperature of your destination, the cold can be piercing and this easily goes through cotton clothing. Wool is your friend during winter.
• Don’t forget the gloves. Hands and feet are the easiest to get cold during winter travel. Bring at least two pairs of gloves or mittens for your baby. He or she maybe resistant at first, but don’t fret..it just takes a little getting used to.

• Boots and warm socks are a must – For kids who can already walk, get a good pair of boots and warm socks for little pre-walkers, a thick pair of booties will do.
• Choose fleece or wool headwear – Even with a hood, it is important to keep your baby’s head warm with either a bonnet or a hat. We recommend one that has extensions to cover the ears if you are not using an earmuff separately. Fleece does the job best.
• A warm inner layer is essential – Get thermal wear for kids or at least a fleece sleeper or a long-sleeved onesie for that first layer of protection. For the legs, Busha pants or warm leggings are ideal.
• Get a good protective outer layer- You need to have at least one good snowsuit, parka or bunting. Just to give you a brief overview of what these are: a bunting looks like a sleeping bag and is ideal for infants, snow suits have form fitting arms and legs, parkas are hooded winter gear lined with fur. Insulation and water repellent materials offer the best protection for your babe.
• Use footed sleepsuits at night. These are the one-piece body suits with long sleeves and covering for the feet. Nap time can be cozy when you use a flannel blanket to cover the cot. Loose beddings can be dangerous to kids, try a sleepsack instead. These are wearable blankets that allow kids to sleep comfortably and still have breathing room. Halo is a local brand in the Philippines for sleep sacks.

Smaller babies are unable to monitor and control their body heat. Over bundling leads to overheating and puts your child at risk for SIDS. During winter travel, make sure to check your baby often. It is advisable to add a layer of clothing more than what you would wear to keep kids warm without overheating them. If you want to check on your baby’s temperature, the belly or the back is a better indicator than his/her hands or feet.

Plan your itinerary well during winter travel with babies as you may need more time getting your little bundle of joy all bundled up.

Have a great winter trip!