Packable Winter Coat

A light down coat that is "squishy" tends to pack well. But you can also just wear your coat on the plane.

Thanks. Yes, I have a “squishy” one that packs really well. I’m just afraid it won’t keep me warm enough in France in December.

I have a Uniqlo down coat that packs into a small sack that is warm and doesn’t take up much space in my luggage. I live in upstate N.Y. and it keeps me warm enough, especially with a sweater underneath. I think I paid ~$100.

It will probably be fine if you wear warm layers underneath.
I bought a roomy packable down coat to be able to layer. Much more useful than dragging along a heavy coat that may only be useful a time or 2.

I have a hip length, hooded packable down coat I bought at Costco years ago. It packs into it's own little bag which makes a handy pillow on the plane. I'm sure it was less than $100 and maybe less than $50. I wear it when I get out of the pool in the winter - yes, I swim outside in the snow and rain. The only down side of packable down is if it's really windy. The wind can slice through the warmth. So as someone else mentioned, wearing a warm layer underneath will help. As would a hat.

If you have a Costco you can get to, you could find affordable 32º brand jackets that usually have synthetic fill and are generally lightweight and low profile. Uniqlo has well priced under layers (tops and bottoms) that are lightweight, moisture wicking and heat retaining. Have sweaters in Merino wool and cashmere, they're super insulating. Be sure to have gloves, hat and scarf, too.

I like the packable vests, jackets, and coats from Lands End with a cashmere cardigan underneath. In Minnesota, it works fine to just have a winter coat, but in Europe I have found that you never know what the temperature of a museum, church, restaurant, metro, train, or bus will be like, so layers are a good idea. Also, I often find Lands End coats and sweaters on eBay, both new and gently used.

Thanks, everyone! These are great suggestions. I don’t have access to a Costco, I do have a Uniqlo. I’ll check out their jackets. I agree that layers are always a good option.

My first thought was of the lovely coat my daughter bought when we were in Paris years ago. If it were me I''d bring your squishy one and throw in some knit gloves and a hat. Then if it wasn't enough I'd look for warm coat as my souvenir!