In prep for our upcoming Christmas Market trip to Europe, I’ve researched and stocked up on some of the best winter gear for our little ones. Since we don’t really have a wintery winter in Northern California, our winter closet is typically scarce. Last year our son was “lucky” enough to sport his cousin’s bright pink hand-me-down snow pants, and more mismatched gear not shown here. Hobo is in still, right?! Ha. And this frugal mama is more than grateful, trust me. If your child isn’t as fortunate, then here’s a guide on how to (not) dress your little one for a winter adventure.
1Updated November 11, 2023
Not sure where to start? If you want to see warm smiles instead of frozen tears, then I have two words for you –
WOOL and LAYERS.
Keep reading to find out how to dress your little one, child, or teen, with links to top-rated items on Amazon (divvying through the fakies).
These images show only a specific size category, but most of the items have toddler and youth sizes.
As an Amazon Associate, I may earn a small commission from qualifying purchases, at no extra cost to you whatsoever. This helps to keep my site running (it’s costs more than you’d think!) and supports my cause!
Before I dive into all of the necessities, take a look at this fun, light-up beanie – a trending gift for your little explorer. Our little guy loves it for night walks. And perfect if you’re hunting the Northern Lights at 2am (one of our dreams!):
Ok, now for the layers…
It’s important to layer so you are prepared for the worst (and the best!).
The basics of the three layers:
- Base layer to wick sweat off your skin to keep you dry (wool preferably)
- Middle “insulating” layer to keep in your body heat (fleece preferably)
- Outer protective layer to shield you from wind and rain or snow (waterproof)
The Thermal Base Layer
Base layer material could be polyester, silk, nylon or wool, but Merino wool like this sporty 2-layer base is the go-to for staying warm, or opt for this cozier prep version:
If you aren’t in freezing temps and plan on layering, then these in 100% cotton should do the trick and keep your kiddo comfortable. Much cuter styles and a third of the price. Elle just got some pink ones with hearts she loves. They have solid colors as well.
Layer #2…Something Fleecy
The insulating layer is like boxing – available in lightweight, midweight, or heavyweight (100, 200 or 300 weight, respectively).
Fleece is the best option since it’s breathable and dries fast.
These are the best I could find on Amazon. These thermal compression layers are fleece-lined, or so they claim.
For baby, a fleece “bunting” suit is perfect. Yup, that’s what they call it – bunting. Just pull that baby off when your baby gets indoors and they’re good to go with their next layer.
Stellar reviews, cute styles, and a reasonable price tag make this best-selling fleece jacket so tempting, at only $20. This is what our little one will be getting for our NorCal “winters”.
Or Amazon has this one from Columbia, a go-to brand when it comes to cold weather.
Nope, Not Stoppin’ There
There’s a third layer!? Yes, don’t forget the outermost later should be water and wind resistant at the very least, if not waterproof (if needed).
***Pay close attention to waterproof vs. water resistant. Most clothing you see will be water resistant, especially the lower priced items. ***
For babies, this bunting suit from Columbia is down-filled, fleece-lined, and water “repellant.”
Get some snow pants like these ones that I have in the adult size, or opt for a bib if boarding, skiing or tubing is in the near future.
By the way, I just saw today Costco carries snow bibs and pants for kids for under $20. So if you have a Costco nearby, that’s another option if Amazon doesn’t have the size you need.
This is the one we have, an Amazon best seller for good reason. I just returned it and re-bought the Midnight Navy one for only $18 on sale!
This one-piece covers it all… it’s waterproof, fleece-lined, and full body. You’re all set:
Lastly, plenty of styles (not just this hunting camo) in this full-length suit in toddler and youth sizes. One reviewer claims it withstood a Michigan winter. Sold.
Ok, Nowwww the Jacket
If you’d rather have the option of a separate jacket, here are some top-rated ones.
You can’t beat the price and surprisingly impressed reviewers that commented on these water-resistant puff jackets. Cool styles like this camo one.
You’ll need more layers underneath this if temps are near freezing, but this jacket looks too cute with the fur hood:
If you want the outermost layer to be truly waterproof, expect to pay for it. Columbia and The North Face are some of the top brands. But I did find a couple on Amazon with great reviews for a lot less. They also have Try Before You Buy!
Keep your baby or toddler warm with the option to de-layer with these 3-in-1 jackets from Children’s Place. The boys’ version is ‘try before you buy’ where you have a week to return it before your payment goes through.
Long Gloves, Long Overdue
That extra length really comes in handy, keeping out the snow. No pun intended.
Snag these thinsulate, waterproof ones that are easy-on:
Or opt for these if your child struggles with the finger holes. There are 16 colors to choose from.
Don’t forget to stock up on a 3-pack of wool mittens to keep those little hands warm. That way you always have a pair ready to go!
Have a Warm Heart?
You know what they say about cold hands? Well at least that’s what my patients say.
Hand warmers are a great stocking stuffer for an outdoor lover.
These include hand, body and toe warmers, and they are TSA approved.
No Cold Feet Here
In addition to the toe warmers, get a good pair of wool socks or thermal socks like these ones…
The second pair, “Hot Feet” looks so cute and warm, I want a pair! They have unicorn, polka dots, camo, and more.
Balaclava Anyone?
No, not the Turkish delight.
It’s a full-on cover for your entire head except your eyes. This one is 100% wool and breathable:
My husband swears by it on his morning winter runs. Hopefully the Neighborhood Watch won’t make a call on him. The only thing this guy would steal is a cheesy dad joke from Instagram.
This one is designed for under a helmet, or you can wear it without the hood as a neck warmer:
I just had to include these. They are laughably gender-specific…
Or Keep it Traditional
These beanies are cute options, and still cover the ears. Dinosaurs, beige with polka dots, and more:
Or don’t take any chances of cold gettin’ in and go with the fleece-lined trapper hat. The first two are waterproof. The third goes up to youth sizes.
See It Through
You’ve come this far. You’d might as well see it through and get the goggles if you’ve got a junior boarder in the making.
UV protection. Anti-glare. Helmet and night compatible. Over the glasses capability. Ages 3-14.
These Boots Are Made for Walkin’ Snow and Rain!
No numb toes with these waterproof Sorel’s.
Mine are so cute and cozy that I run errands in them during my brisk 45-degree California winter days. Yes, that’s Fahrenheit. Whimpy, I know.
If it’s just puddles that you’re after, then these best sellers will more than suffice. They are 35% off right now! The styles are so adorable, I had a tough time deciding which ones to feature:
But How Will You Pack All of This?
Keep in mind that down jackets are easier to compress to take up less space.
You could also try these compression bags. I plan on using them for our next trip in May, where it will be freezing at the top of Zugspitze in Germany to a sweltering 100 degrees on the beaches of Dubai.
The first listed below is just manual compression with rolling. The second one below comes with a “free” hand pump.
The reviews for both say that some of the bags are faulty, so you are better off testing them as soon as you get them and request Amazon to replace any faulty ones.
As long as you bring extras you should be okay for the way home.
If you are checking any baby or toddler gear like a car seat, you could utilize the extra space in this car seat bag, which fits two car seats, large pack of diapers, and 3 pairs of hiking boots. I’ve tested it myself.
What did I miss? Leave a comment below with your winter gear tips.
Now that you’re set with the right gear to brave the iciest adventures, where are you headed?
To gaze at the Northern Lights? Ski the Alps? Or maybe just go sledding in your own backyard?!
