I am travelling to Germany, Netherlands, and to Denmark in one week. I will be there for 5 weeks. I would like to know if I will need a heavy parka or something in the nature when I am backpacking. I am going to layer my clothes right now in hopes that a heavy jacket isn't necessary. Help me out with my packing if you don't mind. Thanks a million. Greg

I would rather have a light Gortex jacket than a heavy parka. With a hood that can be tightened down and velcroed sleeves, it keeps the wind and rain out. A sweater underneath should keep you warm. Add gloves. <BR>

Greg, I think you could get some excellent advice on the eurotrip.com discussion board. The majorities of the posters are backpackers and hostelers, and could give you first hand advice.

Yes you will! Heavens, Greg, we've had snow recently. You need flannel lined chinos from Lands End or L.L. Bean, mock turtlenecks and sweaters over them or perhaps flannel shirts. You need an excellent parka with thinsulate. Insulated sneakers from one of the above companies are magnificent. Long underwear is a good idea. You'll need warm clothes out of doors in the cities in the sunlight, the chill of the shade in the forest will be REALLY cold. Look at weather pages from the weather channel and accuweather. If you want more clothing ideas, e-mail me directly. My husband and I are dressed like the Thinsulate Kids when we expect to be out of doors in Germany . Bundle up Greg! Brrr!

You might want some advice from an old infantryman. Do all you can to prevent sweating. Sweat louses up your clothing's ability to keep you warm. So wear cotton or silk underwear. It acts as a wick, helps sweat evaporate, keeps you warm. Layers work best. Two pairs of pants are better than a pair of heavy trousers. Keep your jacket collar open; helps your underwear and body "breathe." <BR>Always wear a hat of some kind. A huge amount of body heat is lost through the head because so much blood circulates through it. Keep your feet warm, dry, and free of blisters by wearing proper footwear. Keep your socks changed and dry. Don't wear a heavy parka. Wear something that will shed water and breathe, such as Gore-Tex. Wear gloves because, like your head, your hands lose a lot of heat.