Thinking of going skiing? Pair contact lenses with sunglasses—9 essentials for enjoying the ice wonderland

▲ Tomamu Resort in Hokkaido. (Photo provided by Tang Guizhen Travel Agency)

Reported by Chen Ruizhong / Taipei

As autumn and winter approach, many people begin planning overseas trips to enjoy snowscapes and skiing. For example, from late November to March each year in Jilin Province, China, you might still catch the rare sight of rime ice. Additionally, events like Harbin’s Ice and Snow World and Japan’s Sapporo Snow Festival typically peak around January to February each year.

For people from subtropical Taiwan, figuring out how to dress in areas where temperatures can plunge below minus ten degrees Celsius, and what essentials to bring, becomes the most important task before departure.

Therefore, China Wusong Travel Agency has compiled a series of winter travel tips for those visiting cold regions like northeastern China, based on over a decade of experience, to help snow enthusiasts prepare in advance and avoid ruining their trip.

▲ Tazawa Lake Ski Resort in Northeastern Japan (Photo provided by the operator)

Topwear:
Start with a thermal long-sleeve base layer, then add a sweater, and finally wear a windproof down winter coat. Those who are particularly sensitive to the cold can add a few more layers underneath, and the base layer should be soft, sweat-absorbent, and breathable. (Avoid wearing any single layer too loosely, as it may trap air inside.)

Bottomwear:
The innermost layer should be thermal underwear, topped with thick wool pants, and the outermost layer should be thick casual trousers—or even better, snow pants. However, no matter which type of pants you choose, they should not expose your ankles.

Footwear:
In cold regions, roads are icy and slippery, and keeping your feet warm is crucial. It’s best to wear anti-slip, high-top snow boots with thick soles and insulating materials inside. Regular leather shoes or cloth shoes can easily lead to frostbitten feet.

Gloves:
Wear a thin pair of gloves plus a thick pair—you can wear both together when it’s extremely cold. Gloves with wrist straps can also help keep cold wind out. Some gloves have connected fingers except for the thumb; although they look cute, they’re not ideal for taking photos.

Hat:
Besides the hood on your down jacket, prepare a woolen hat that preferably covers your ears. Since hats are relatively lightweight, consider bringing a few different colors to match your outfit for photos.

Scarf:
Wrap it around your mouth, nose, and neck outdoors to prevent cold air from directly irritating your respiratory organs.

▲ Club Med Ski Resort (Photo provided by Club Med)

Eyewear:
The warmth from your face can cause fogging on your eyeglass lenses, so it’s best to switch to contact lenses and wear sunglasses to prevent snow blindness. You can also carry eye drops to keep your eyes moist.

Essentials to bring:
Lotions and lip balms can help prevent dry, cracked skin, and bringing a thermos ensures you always have access to hot water.

Camera:
In cold weather, cameras are prone to malfunctioning or draining power quickly. Keep your camera warm while outside, and wrap it in a thick cloth or clothing before bringing it indoors to avoid condensation caused by sudden temperature changes.