A winter break in the city without freezing

Short answer: Three thin layers beat one thick jacket when you switch between street, museum and cafe all day. The innermost layer decides how the rest feels.

Switching in and out is the problem

Outside there is frost, inside there are twenty degrees, and you cross that line many times in a day. Only layers let you adjust without carrying a bag around. See bamboo undershirt for women .

Feet on cold pavements

Feet get cold from standing still in a queue outside a museum or a popular cafe. Socks that keep feet dry get cold less, even over several hours. See bamboo socks for women .

The evening in a hotel room

The room is often warmer than you would like, especially after a cold day outside. Thin sleepwear beats thick when all you want is a good night's sleep. See bamboo sleepwear .

The metro is warmer than the street

Public transport in a big city can be surprisingly warm, even in the middle of winter. A layer you can quickly remove while standing in a packed carriage makes the ride more comfortable.

Museums hold a steady temperature

Many museums keep an even, mild temperature for the sake of the exhibits, whatever the weather is doing outside. Another reason layers beat one fixed jacket you cannot adjust.

Pack for several days without packing heavy

A city trip over several days needs little more than the same layers worn in new combinations. That keeps the suitcase light without compromising on comfort.

Match the colours in advance

Choose layers in colours that go together, so you can mix freely as needed. That saves time in the morning and makes packing simpler.

Wind between buildings is colder than the forecast

In a big city with tall buildings, wind can feel stronger between them than the number on your phone suggests. A windproof outer layer over the thin layers makes moving from place to place more comfortable.

An evening meal out needs a layer you can shed

Restaurants and bars can be surprisingly warm after a cold walk. A layer you can easily take off and drape over your chair keeps the rest of the evening comfortable without getting cold on the way home.

Pockets that fit a rolled up layer

A jacket with a good inside pocket means you can take the layer off and stash it without carrying anything extra around the city. A small detail that makes a real difference on a long day.