I have some amazing kids that are taking the husband and I to Germany and France on the 18th of December and staying through NYE. I have never been and neither is the husband. I am leaving the excursions to the kids, but I am having big time anxiety as to what I should pack clothes wise. How cold will it be? Is it long johns kind of weather? I also really dislike the cold. Do I need a big ass parka? I do know that we are going to Normandy and visiting several places like that, so I'm prepared shoe wise. It's everything else that I absolutely have no idea about.

TIA

I would do my best based on the weather forecasts and relax.

I learned a long time ago when my kids travel ball had us travelling all over the country that there is always a store you can buy whatever you need at. I have had to buy clothes, shoes, personal effects, whatever while on trips, both overseas and domestic. Heck, just last December I had to go to a drugstore in New Zealand because I forgot my shaving creme of all things.

I just gave the same advice to my daughter who just left for Scotland this past weekend. Just do your best, relax and have a great trip. Sounds like you do have some great kids.

Comfortable shoes and wool socks. Dress in layers (base, mid, outer) and keep a waterproof layer with you. Wear pants. Leave any tights or yoga pants at home.

I agree with this. My most recent trip to Europe during that time was spending Christmas and New years in Austria a couple years ago. Vienna was mostly cloudy/rainy/snowy and cold so waterproof shoes and outerwear were necessary when outdoors. Conversely, our time in Salzburg was completely sunny and cool so we only needed a light jacket. Need to be prepared for both so layers are key. I recommend waterproof hiking shoes/boots and comfortable wool socks regardless of weather.

Make sure you visit a Christmas market or 2. Have a great trip!

We'll be in Austria & Germany at the same time and our focus (like others have mentioned) is shoes and a main outerwear jacket. These are two areas I've skimped on in the past and regretted it while traveling. I opted for a peacoat instead of a parka but waterproof shoes are going to be a must. Don't want to spend all the money on the trip and not be able to enjoy it / have to buy more stuff there.

Waterproof shoes and a waterproof jacket/shell will be very valuable in Europe in winter. You mention Normandy which means to me rain more than snow.

A sturdy fleece or a down jacket under the waterproof shell will keep you very warm.

Also bring a knit cap and a scarf. Those really help seal in the warmth and can be shed if you start to warm up.

Some long underwear will help if you don't have warmer pants.

Yall are going to have a blast. If you can swing it, fly over in Polaris seating (United) or something similar.

Went last year and had a blast. Yeah, it was cold, but who cares? It was Europe at Christmas!

I was in Berlin the week leading up to Christmas a few years back and that's probably the coldest I've ever been. Loved every minute though. The Christmas markets were amazing. Prepare for the sun to set around 4pm if you are going that far north.

Layers!