Studying abroad is thrilling. But if you are transitioning from India's tropical heat to a cold and potentially foreign climate, you’ll need to change your entire wardrobe. It could be your first time moving away from home, or it could also be your fifth monsoon, but knowing how to pack for cold climate with the best thermals for students abroad is a big deal.

Let’s be honest many Indian students head out unprepared. Either the jackets are too bulky, the base layers too flimsy, or you’ve packed so much that your baggage allowance is on the brink. If that sounds familiar, this guide is for you.

Photo by Andy Ho on Unsplash 

Table of Contents

1. Introduction

2. Why Packing Right Matters

3. Layering Outfits for Study Abroad: The Basics

4. Winter Clothes for Studying Abroad: What to Prioritise

5. Warm Essentials for Studying Abroad (That Students Often Forget)

6. Sustainable Winter Wear: Packing with Purpose

7. Final Packing List: Clothing Essentials for Students Abroad

8. Explore Kosha’s Winter Travel Clothing for Students

9. FAQs: Winter Wear for Students Studying Abroad
   
   

Why Packing Right Matters

You’re not just going on a short trip. You are packing for months of lectures, social events, maybe some commutes in the snow, and even travelling within your host country. Choosing and packing the best thermals for students abroad is not about just warmth. It is about confidence, ease and comfort with convenience.

Layering is going to be your best friend. Not just layering, but layering with a system of base, mid, and outer layers that are packable, lightweight, and usable.

Layering Outfits for Study Abroad: The Basics

If you're layering like you’re stacking sweaters, stop. Follow these simple yet effective steps: 

• Base layer: Your best thermals for students abroad

• Middle layer: Sweaters or light fleece for insulation

• Outer layer: A weather-proof jacket

Your layering outfits for study abroad should be compatible with both indoor and outdoor differing temperatures without requiring constant change, 

If you're unsure where to begin, layering outfits for study abroad starts with a strong base (thermals), mid-weight insulation, and a reliable outer shell.

Stay cozy while layering with sustainable winter wear, designed as part of warm essentials for studying abroad

Winter Clothes for Studying Abroad: What to Prioritise

When choosing winter clothes for studying abroad, think of these three checkpoints:

• Function: Is it weather-rated? Waterproof? Windproof?
  

• Weight: Can it be packed easily or layered without bulk?
  

• Longevity: Will it last the full term (or more)?
  

A few must-haves include:

• Thermal tops and leggings
  

• A versatile puffer or Parka jacket for men and women
  

• Gloves, wool socks, and thermal beanies
  

We recommend looking into Kosha’s Women’s Alaskan Parka Jacket from here or directly this Parka Jacket. It’s waterproof, fleece-lined, and doesn’t look like a sleeping bag.

You’re not left out. Check out the Parka jacket for men here. It’s designed for Indian students going abroad, especially in 5°C to 15°C climates, with layered insulation and breathability built in.

Warm Essentials for Studying Abroad (That Students Often Forget)

Packing the obvious is easy. But these warm essentials for studying abroad often get overlooked:

• Mufflers For Women: A soft, stylish scarf goes a long way when paired with thermals or parkas.
  

• Touchscreen gloves: You’ll be using your phone a lot.
  

• Waterproof shoes: Non-negotiable if you are bound for the snow.
  

• Thermal socks: Fashion is secondary, warmth is primary.
  

• Thermal caps or beanies: A covered head equals to better heat retention.
  

Also consider multipurpose thermals. One great pair can be worn under jeans during campus commutes and used again on weekend hikes or ski trips.

Sustainable Winter Wear: Packing with Purpose

You don’t need 10 jackets. You need 1–2 pieces that do the job well. The magic lies in sustainable winter wear built to last, ethically made, and not fast fashion. Sustainability isn't a trend - it is the best, student-friendly option!

Kosha has pioneered the way with performance, and eco-friendly solution materials, including bamboo-merino bases and our PFAS-free water resistant shells. On top of that, by investing in sustainable winter wear, you are not purchasing replacements every six months.

A few principles to follow:

• Choose multi-functional items
  

• Avoid fast fashion fleece
  

• Check product longevity and repairability
  

• Go for neutral colours to match everything
  
  

 A stylish choice among winter clothes for studying abroad, this parka doubles as sustainable winter wear and warm essentials for studying abroad.

Final Packing List: Clothing Essentials for Students Abroad

Here’s a streamlined list of what to pack:

Base Layers:

• 2–3 Merino wool thermal tops
  

• 2–3 matching thermal leggings
  

Mid Layers:

• 1–2 woollen sweaters
  

• 1 fleece-lined hoodie or jacket
  

Outerwear:

• 1 heavy-duty jacket like the Women’s Alaskan Parka Jacket or Parka jacket for men
  

• 1 light down or synthetic puffer for moderate days
  

Accessories:

• 2–3 warm mufflers or scarves
  

• 1–2 thermal beanies
  

• Waterproof gloves
  

• Wool-blend socks (5 pairs minimum)
  

Pro tip: Make sure your layers are interchangeable and modular. That will help make you better prepared for varying climatic conditions. 

Designed with students in mind, this parka ranks high in best thermals for students abroad, offering sustainable winter wear for chilly semesters.

Explore Kosha’s Winter Travel Clothing for Students

When in doubt, start with Kosha’s curated collections. They’re tailored for Indian travellers heading to cold climates, making it easier to shop by temperature, layering system, and activity level.

Explore our full range on Kosha and build your perfect winter kit without the guesswork.

Stay warm. Travel light.

Unsure what winter wear to pack for your next cold-weather destination? Wondering if you’ll stay warm enough throughout your trip? Our Winter Layering Expert at Kosha can help you with a light‑but‑mighty winter wear travel kit for your next trip.

We guide you with the layers to carry, based on your chosen destination, the temperature, weather conditions, and the activities on your itinerary. Then, we’ll help you understand exactly what to wear and exactly what to pack - for anything from +15 °C beach breezes to −30 °C Arctic blasts. With light-as-air Merino-Bamboo base layers and jackets, you carry just enough winter gear - yet feel infinitely warmer.

For frequent travellers, who would rather buy and keep thoughtfully made winter wear for the years to come. Seldom or first-time travellers, we’ve got you covered with rental winter wear that you can hire just for your travel dates and return, hassle-free. Book a 1-on-1 video consult call with Kosha’s Winter Layering Expert now. Book a 1:1 Video Consult.

FAQs

Q1. How many thermal sets do I really need as a student abroad?

You’ll need at least two to three good-quality thermal sets that dry quickly. Rotate them between classes and weekend trips.

Q2. Are thermals enough for freezing temperatures abroad?

Thermals are the foundation, but they need to be paired with mid and outer layers. A good base layer + fleece + parka combo will get you through most situations.

Q3. Can I use my Indian winter jacket abroad?

Most Indian jackets aren’t rated for sub-zero or wet climates. Buy some weatherproof apparel, like the Women's Alaskan Parka Jacket or Parka jacket for men, for the best protection.

Q4. How can I get sustainable winter wear on a student budget?

Look for things that you'll be able to wear for a long time, things that are versatile and will have multiple uses. Kosha's thermals and outerwear will give you a perfect mix of performance and sustainability. 

Christ Keivom

Christ Keivom believes in appreciating the simplicity of things like long walks in quiet early morning or getting lost in a song past midnight.