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Even a jaunt to California will have you begging for a warm, packable jacket when temps dip into the 30s Fahrenheit during the coldest months. A lightweight winter jacket is essential if you plan to go anywhere chilly between December and January. To help you find the best winter jacket for your next trip, I interviewed three experts and a handful of knowledgable CNN Underscored editors to come up with a curated list of warm, packable jackets that will last for years of travel. Our favorite budget packable jackets Our favorite premium packable jackets What to look for in a packable jacket A great packable jacket is lightweight and compact enough for travel while also providing warmth and water-resistance for comfort. To find a jacket that matches those criteria, experts McAlpin and Herbranson said to look for the following traits. FAQs The following FAQs have been answered by travel experts Edward Pizzarello and Anne McAlpin and outdoor gear expert Emily Herbranson. Meet our experts For this article, we consulted the following travel experts for their personal insights. Why trust CNN Underscored CNN Underscored has a team of skilled writers and editors who have many years of experience testing, researching and recommending products, and they ensure each article is carefully edited and products are properly vetted. We talk to top experts when applicable to make certain we are testing each product accurately, recommending only the best products and considering the pros and cons of each item.