Staying warm on tour
It’s December here in Germany and temperatures are dropping. Our tours to Dachau run in all kinds of weather, including the cold. For the last few weeks the temperature has been hovering at about 0 Celsius (about 32 Fahrenheit) and it’s only going to get colder.
I’ve noticed the cold really biting some guests lately so here are a few tips to help you stay warm on tour.
Layers.
Layers are your friend. Three or even four layers for your upper body. You can always peel off a layer if you get too warm. Focus on your upper body. By all means wear thermals under your pants (I do once it’s below freezing) but prioritize your upper body to keep your core warm.
Believe it or not, the last thing you want is to be too warm in the cold - you will sweat, and then that moisture will make you feel very cold. On the Dachau Tour we move in and out of buildings. I highly recommend taking off a layer (or at least opening up a layer) when we move inside - put them back on as we move back outdoors.
Boots and Socks
Waterproof boots of some kind will protect your feet from the cold and wet. “Goretex” is a great waterproof material as it keeps the wet out but doesn’t lock sweat in. There are other materials, it doesn’t have to be “Goretex”, just make sure it’s breathable. Boots like Doc’s will also work if you treat the leather uppers regularly to waterproof them.
As a bonus, boots will support your ankles making you more stable and as such feel less tired.
A good warm pair of socks inside the boots will keep your toes nice and warm.
Cap, Scarf, Gloves.
A warm cap or hat of some kind (or took as the Canadians call them) can make the world of difference. Keep your head warm and you're half way there.
A scarf is even more important, even a light one or a simple Buff, anything to keep your neck warm.
Gloves are great if you have them, you’ll be more comfortable for sure, but you can always put your hands in your pockets (the same can’t be said for your head!). Any gloves are better than none but a thin pair that you can use your phone with and then a pair of mittens over those would be perfect. This way if you want to take a photo you don’t need to take off all your hand protection - just the mittens. For mittens look for a pair with loops for your wrists - a game-changer.
Bonus tip: There are various hand-warmers you can get. They are little flat plastic sachets that once activated, produce heat for hours. Put one into your gloves (or one into your inside coat pocket) and enjoy.
Breakfast Before The Tour
Try to fuel yourself for the day with a good breakfast. Skipping breakfast is not a good idea on a cold day. Anything is better than nothing!
A Snack and a Thermos Flask
I usually forget, but on days when I remember to bring a small snack, it makes a big difference. Feel free to fill a Thermos with tea or coffee (or even soup!) and bring it on the tour also.
Where to buy?
If you’re in Munich and need to buy any of the items listed above I can highly recommend the outdoor shop Decathlon. They have a location right by the Central Train Station (Hauptbahnhof) in Munich. I often meet guests who live in much warmer climates and have no need for cold weather gear. Decathlon is much less expensive than big brand locations and the although the quality is sometimes not the absolute best, it gets the job done (especially if you have no need for such gear when you go back home).