The Best Mid-Layers for Winter Travel: Fleece, Wool, and More

The Best Mid-Layers for Winter Travel

Packing for a winter trip always comes down to one big question: how do I stay warm without overstuffing my suitcase?

The secret lies in mid-layers. These are the pieces that sit between your thermal base layer and your outer jacket. They don’t always get the attention they deserve, but they’re what make the difference between shivering in Tromsø and wandering happily through a snowy Copenhagen Christmas market.

After plenty of trial and error (and lots of hours browsing gear in NZ and AU stores), here are some of the best mid-layer options I’ve found, from versatile fleeces to technical jackets, and even a uniquely New Zealand merino-possum knit that has become one of my favourites.

1. Fleece Mid-Layers

Fleece is the ultimate travel staple. It’s lightweight, warm for its weight, and dries quickly. A zip fleece or hoodie is perfect under a parka or puffer.

💡 Best for: active trips, layering under coats, or when you want something easy to wash and quick to dry.

🧳 Great options:

• Patagonia Better Sweater: A global travel classic, versatile enough for both city wear and outdoor adventures.
• Patagonia Synchilla Hoodie: Cosy and casual, perfect for downtime or layering on cold mornings.
• Kathmandu Aikman Fleece: Widely available in NZ/AU, durable and affordable.

2. Wool Sweaters & Knits

Wool is a timeless choice: warm, breathable, and stylish enough to wear straight to dinner. Unlike fleece, it looks more “put together”, which is a big plus on winter city trips.

💡 Best for: travellers who want warmth + style, or a piece that transitions from sightseeing to dinner out.

🧶 Great options:

• Merino Possum Blend Sweaters (NZ gem!): Lighter, softer, and warmer than pure wool. My pick: the Lothlorian Crew Neck, which packs small but punches above its weight in warmth.
• RAB Merino Sweaters – Technical merino with a performance edge, great for layering and travel.

3. Technical Mid-Layers

Technical mid-layers are engineered for performance: warmth without bulk, breathable fabrics, and packability. They’re excellent for ski trips, Arctic destinations, or if you just tend to run cold.

💡 Best for: very cold destinations, outdoor activities, or if you want a “just in case” warmer layer.

🧳 Great options:

• RAB Microlight Alpine: Lightweight but impressively warm, with a slim fit that layers well.
• The North Face Mid-Layers: A reliable balance of style + technical performance, with lots of options to choose from.

4. Casual & Comfy Mid-Layers

Not every day needs high-performance gear. Sometimes you just want something cosy for train rides, cabins, or slow sightseeing days.

💡 Best for: downtime, mild winter days, or layering when comfort is the priority.

🧳 Great options:

• Patagonia Hoodies: Casual, comfortable, and long-lasting.
• Colombia West Bend Ii Full Zip Fleece: Lightweight, comfy, and warm

How Many Mid-Layers Should You Pack?

• For most winter trips: 1 versatile mid-layer (like fleece or merino) is enough.
• For very cold destinations: bring 2 – one technical/warm option, and one casual/stylish knit.
• Packing test: Always ask: Can I wear this in at least two ways? (e.g. sightseeing + dinner, or under coat + as loungewear).

✅ Pro Tip: If you’re shopping in New Zealand or Australia, don’t skip merino possum blends. They’re warmer and lighter than standard wool, and uniquely Kiwi. My favourite is the Lothlorian Merino Possum Crew Neck — it performs better than many heavier sweaters while still packing down small.

Final Thoughts

When it comes to winter packing, your mid-layer will probably get the most wear out of anything in your suitcase. Choose one that’s warm, versatile, and comfortable enough for both long flights and snowy walks.

The right mid-layer means you’ll spend less time worrying about the cold — and more time enjoying the trip.

✨ Want a printable checklist to make winter packing easier? Grab my free winter packing checklist here