I have been very busy lately with my blog, my real job, getting ready for my sister’s wedding….. I knew in my head that there is a trip scheduled for next week, but the reality of where I am going did not sink in until today when reading a post on Corporette, one of my favorite blogs. Yes, friends, I am going to Boston. The high while I am there is 32 degrees Fahrenheit. That’s actually not too bad, considering how cold it has been this winter, but it is still significantly colder than the temperature in Texas during the same time, which is 67.

Realizing my destination set off a flurry of preparations. Trying to figure out what I need, where I can get it, and then actually going to get it is taking some time. The first step, as always, is making a list. (my favorite part!)

Items to pack on a business trip in the winter:

• Winter coat, scarf, hat, and gloves. These items are the most important in keeping warm. Some, like Sherry Maysonave, author of Casual Power: How to Power Up Your Nonverbal Communication and Dress Down for Success, recommend getting a coat in your favorite “power” neutral: gray, brown, navy, or black. My coat from Dillard’s is red, and I love it (similar to the picture). My scarf, hat, and gloves are all hand knit by me, but you can get those items anywhere. Right now is a great time to get winter gear because of all the sales. Of course, this also means there are less choices…..
• Silk underwear, a.k.a. long johns. I have never had silk underwear but I was told that they are required for trips to the Northeast right now. Supposedly they keep you toasty warm when you are outside but let you stay reasonably cool while inside. Sounds like a winner! They are available at REI, Land’s End, L.L. Bean, and others.
• Slacks and sweaters, preferably wool. I know wool can cause a lot of itchiness among some of you, but it is very warm. If you layer over silk underwear you shouldn’t have problems with itchiness, and you will be comfortable walking around in frigid temperatures.  And speaking of walking…..
• Boots and wool socks. My shoes pretty much consist of ballet flats and flip flops (I live in Texas remember?). I don’t have anything really appropriate for protecting my feet from snow and still looking professional. I got some really great Steve Madden knitted boots for my Chicago trip, but that was all play and no work. For this trip, I will need something a little nicer, like these boots from Santana Canada.  Wool socks are not readily available in a lot of places here, but from what I am told it is worth the search for that extra foot warmth.

So if I add these things to my regular business travel packing list I should be set! I hope…..

I will let you all know how it goes!