What to Wear in Quebec City in December
Are you wondering what to wear in Quebec City in December? Well, as a Barbados born, Florida raised girl I am not good at cold weather! I’ve definitely failed at cold weather destinations, but more recent attempts I’ve succeeded and actually felt warm.
Heading to Montreal and Quebec City in December though, I was very worried about dressing warm enough. It was my first trip to Canada during the winter, but to my surprise, I was completely fine! I actually felt warm and sometimes even felt too hot in all my layers! Whether you are clueless like me, or are just curious what to prioritize for a carry-on (yes, I actually took a carry-on), I think my list will help you!
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Quebec City Winter Temperatures
Quebec City experiences cold winter temperatures that can be quite frigid, typically ranging from 23°F to 5°F (-5°C to -15°C) in December. January is usually the coldest month, with temperatures often plummeting to between 14°F to -4°F (-10°C and -20°C), and occasionally even lower during cold snaps. By February, temperatures begin to slightly rise, generally hovering around 18°F to 5°F (-8°C to -15°C).
I was there end of November into the beginning of December and Quebec City was already covered in a blanket of snow! Despite the cold, it was enchanting! The feel of old Quebec gives historical, European charm and the snow with the Christmas decorations made December a magical experience!
Coming from central Florida that rarely gets to freezing and if it does, only happens at night, visiting Quebec City during the winter felt super intimidating. However, I really wanted to experience the Christmas markets, and I’m so glad I did!
Tips for Staying Warm in Quebec City in Winter
If you are a warm weather resident like me, you are probably trying to find tips for what to wear in Quebec City in the December. Well, I’ve been where you are and here are some quick tips I’ve learned that have made the most difference!
Puffy jackets are better than wool coats, fleece and/or merino wool layers make a huge difference, and footwear is more impactful than I ever thought. Of course, scarves, hat and gloves are a must as well! Let’s dive into the specifics on what to wear in Quebec City in December!
What to Pack for Quebec City in December
I actually managed to take a carry-on to Montreal and Quebec City in December! As someone who hates being cold, it was an accomplishment I was very proud of myself! Naturally, I didn’t pack my puffy winter coat, but carrying it wasn’t a huge inconvenience.
Here is a list of what I would take and what ultimately helped me to stay warm in Quebec City in December!
Puffy Winter Coat
Wool coats left me freezing time and time again! I remember visiting New York in December years ago. I layered up and my outerwear was a long wool coat. Well, I was FREEZING!
A few years ago, I rolled into Old Navy and saw a long, puffy coat, with a hood and it was on clearance! It was so cheap and I thought I could use it to see the Northern Lights one day so it would absolutely be worth it.
I took this coat to Quebec City in December. It was its first true test drive and I couldn’t believe how warm it kept me! I was actually hot at times! The one I bought was long, passed my waist, and might be overkill for you. However, the puffy or goose jacket is absolutely the way to go!
Puffy jackets vary in terms of length, stuffing, water resistance, and more. If you hate being cold like I do, I recommend more puffy than less and try to get one longer than waist length.
Long Puffer Jacket for Women
Steve Madden Women’s Long Chevron Quilted Outerwear Jacket
THE NORTH FACE Women’s Arctic Insulated Parka
Fleece
Fleece is another one I would see often as a recommendation for cold weather! Now I have fleece that is absolutely NOT cute, in my opinion. However, in recent years, the sherpa fleece style pullovers were everywhere and some were so cute! I snagged one from H&M and it is SO warm!
Whether you have a cute option or a practical option, a fleece is a must! It’s a layer that can really help you in the frigid temperatures of Quebec City in the winter!
ANRABESS Womens Fleece Jacket Casual Long Sleeve Cropped Sherpa Button Down
Wool Sweater
I don’t really own wool sweaters, because it’s such a rare need for me. However, it’s great for layering and easier to dress up than a fleece.
Women’s 100% Merino Wool Seamless Sweater Mock Neck First-Line Ready to Wear Long Sleeve Knitted Pullover Tops
Turtleneck Sweater
I did pack a turtleneck sweater! It’s great for keeping warm, dressing up or layering! Though I did put a thermal layer under the turtleneck and actually was too warm!
Turtleneck Long Sleeve Shirts Fall Fashion Basic Thermal Underwear Tops Winter Clothes
Snow Boots
Technically, I do not have snow boots and I didn’t want to buy them. However, I read a tip that you should take snow boots for Quebec City in December! So what did I do? I took my hiking boots!
My hiking boots were perfect! I never had an issue, they kept my feet warm and they were comfortable for walking around Quebec City! I joked with a French Canadian while in Quebec City that I was “hiking around the city” but it worked so well!
If you don’t want to purchase snow boots and you have hiking boots like mine, you should be good! The message here is your cute leather boots won’t work well in Quebec City.
Columbia Minx Shorty III
Long Johns Thermal Layer
I have purchased various types of these over the years, but I don’t have a favorite. However, depending on the length of your coat, or clothing items you pack, this could really be a need!
One reason I may not have found a pair I like is because I haven’t gone for the merino wool ones. Living in a hot weather climate, I just haven’t wanted to make the investment. If you are like me, there are polyester ones, but if you want to make the investment, consider merino wool! I found a reasonably priced pair of merino wool leggings which I’ve linked below.
Merino Wool Base Layer Women Pants 100% Merino Wool Leggings
Beanie
What’s a what to wear in Quebec City in December list without a beanie? I took a couple of beanies with me! Keeping your head warm is a must and really helps with the cold December days in Quebec City!
adidas Women’s Trefoil Beanie
C.C Thick Cable Knit Faux Fuzzy Fur Pom Fleece Lined Skull Cap Cuff Beanie
Scarf
Admittedly, in Florida, I’ve worn scarves mostly as an accessory. I have mainly thin “Summer scarves” that only make an appearance on the random cool days. However, in true cold weather, a warm scarf a must!
A large, warm scarf that borders on being a small blanket is the best! Though you will have a lot of options of varying sizes and materials.
FURTALK Winter Scarf for Women Shawl Cashmere Feel Tassel Plaid Large Oversized Scarves Wraps
Gloves
Gloves are another thing I’ve really misunderstood as a warm weather person. I remember having those thin, cheap knit gloves as a child. The wind went right through them, but it worked for the one day a year it was cold in central Florida.
I had recently bought ski gloves, but I didn’t want to take those to Quebec City. As I perused the various types of gloves in the store, I found a pair that were rated for temperatures I’d be experiencing.
Again, this made a huge difference! And remember when I said there were times I was actually hot in all my layers? Well, the gloves were the first to go and spent more time in my coat pockets than I ever thought they would!
I still consider lined gloves a must! They won’t take up much room, and will make a difference if you are cold!
Winter Gloves for Women Chenille, Womens Gloves Cold Weather Warm Fleece Lined
isotoner Women’s Chunky Cable Knit Sherpasoft Mittens
Wool Socks
This is another tip I’ve read a lot and can now understand why! Good wool socks really help keep the feet warm and dry! It’s worth investing in at least one good pair! Just consider the thickness versus the size of your boots. I’ve purchased some from Amazon that I had to return because they were way too thick!
The below have great reviews from Amazon and are 80% wool. It doesn’t have to be exactly like the below, but they are worth considering.
NinetoFiveLife Pack of 4 Womens Merino Wool Socks Winter Hiking Socks Knit
Other Items to Consider for Quebec City in December
Heat Packs
I’ve never used these, but I have heard about them. Small heat packs you can use to keep warm in frigid temperatures. While I never ended up taking them or needing them, you might want to consider taking some if your feet and hands tend to get super cold.
HotHands Body and Hand Super Warmers
Snow Pants
I don’t consider this necessary, unless you plan to hike, ski, or play in the snow while up in Canada! When I went for my first ski lessons a couple years ago, I ended up purchasing ski bibs which were so comfortable!
You might prefer pants, but the bibs worked out perfectly for me! Again, you don’t need this unless you plan to do more sporty winter activities in Quebec.
Arctic Quest Womens Ski Snow Bibs Pants Insulated Water Resistant Overalls Snowboarding Winter Waterproof Pants Women
Sweat Set
I’m not sure which generation made it somewhat cool to wear sweat sets, but thank you! I wore a sweat set with a blazer on the plane, but actually ended up being too hot!
The sweat set I bought on Amazon is no longer for sale, but the same Amazon brand sells other sweat sets. If wearing a sweat set works for you, I can vouch for how warm it kept me!
ANRABESS Womens 2 Piece Outfits Lounge Hoodie Oversized Sweatshirt Jogger
Quebec City December Packing List
I spent four days in Quebec City and Montreal in December and managed to only take a carry-on! If it was any longer, I probably wouldn’t have succeeded. Regardless of your trip length or suitcase size, here’s a basic winter packing list for your Québec trip!
What to Wear in Quebec City in December
Clothing
- Winter Coat: Insulated, waterproof, and windproof
- Layers:
- Moisture-wicking base layers (thermal tops and bottoms)
- Fleece or wool sweater
- Insulated mid-layer (optional)
- Pants:
- Warm, waterproof pants (or snow pants for outdoor activities)
- Thermal leggings (to wear under pants)
- Footwear:
- Waterproof winter boots with good traction
- Warm, thick socks (wool or thermal)
- Accessories:
- Warm hat (preferably covering your ears)
- Scarf (wool or fleece)
- Gloves or mittens (preferably waterproof)
- Sleepwear: the hotels I stayed were very warm, so you might want to bring a warm cozy option and a lighter set.
Essentials
- Backpack or purse: For carrying daily items
- Sunglasses: Could be needed, but I never used sunglasses on my trip.
- Sunscreen: Protect your skin from UV rays reflected off the snow
- Personal Items:
- Toiletries (travel-sized)
- Medications (if needed)
- Travel Documents: Passport, ID, and any necessary tickets or confirmations
Tech and Entertainment
- Phone and Charger: Consider a portable charger as well
- Camera: For capturing winter scenery
- E-reader, Book, or Deck of Cards: For downtime
Miscellaneous
- Hand Warmers: Disposable or reusable
- Travel Umbrella: Just in case
How to Get Around Quebec City
The reason your footwear is so important is because you will be walking! Old Quebec is so walkable and if you’re there in December, Christmas markets are probably a main draw.
When I arrived from the airport, I took an uber to my hotel, Le Monastère des Augustines, in Old Quebec. From that point on, I walked! Including to the train station, that was just downhill from our hotel.
Pack for walking and being outside. I promise if you pack correctly, you will be able to take in the charm of Old Quebec City!
Tours to Consider for Quebec City
For more specifics on what to do in Quebec City and a breakdown on the Christmas markets, check out my post 4 Days in Montreal and Quebec City | Perfect December Getaway. It’s a more complete travel guide, and includes insight to Montreal if you are considering that city as well!
If you are looking for tours to help fill your time in Quebec City, the below are highly rated and worth considering.
Private Guided Quebec City Walking Tour with Funicular Included
Guided Tour of the Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac in Quebec City
What to Wear in Quebec City in Winter
I hope this list was helpful and you now have a good sense of what to pack for Quebec City in December! It’s so hard for me to enjoy a destination when I’m cold, so I was happily surprised when I was too warm! I’d rather sweat than shiver, so it worked out well for me.
The frigid temperatures of cold destinations no longer hold the same level of intimidation for me. I realize I can go prepared and stay warm! My trip to Quebec City and Montreal for the Christmas markets was wonderful and so magical with the snow!
I hope you have the best time in Quebec City!
