Planning your next trip to London and wondering what to pack? We’ve got you covered, whatever time of year you’re visiting and whatever activities you have planned.
London Packing Essentials Year-Round
Whatever time of year you’re visiting London, these are a few essentials that you’ll need!
- Umbrella or Raincoat – London’s weather is notoriously unpredictable and whilst we’ll be the first to say it’s really not as rainy here as it’s portrayed to be – it is quite a a good idea to bring a compact umbrella or lightweight, packable raincoat to use year-round.
- Comfortable Walking Shoes – London is a city designed to be walked and for that reason a good pair of comfy shoes is vital. Londoners are big fans of trainers, wearing to work, meals out and exploring the city.
- Backpack or Tote Bag – Make sure you have a bag for carrying essentials, like phone chargers, snacks, and water while on the go. Make sure your bag is secure as pickpockets are rife in tourist areas of London.
- Reusable Water Bottle – Most public places in London now have bottle refill stations, as well as some cafes and restaurants offering free refills. You’ll save lots of money and not add plastic to the environment with this packing essential!
- UK Power Adapter – For international visitors, ensure any adapter has a UK plug to charge devices.
- Contactless Payment or Oyster Card – London’s transport system (buses, Tube, trains) only accepts contactless payments. Visitors can tap in and out with a credit/debit card or phone. Alternatively, visitors can purchase an Oyster card. Ideal for people without contactless cards or looking to pre-pay travel costs.
- UK Cash – Whilst most of London’s shops, restaurants and pubs take card, there’s still a few that are cash only. Make sure you’ve got some Great British Pounds stashed away just in case!
- Camera – Whether you have a professional camera or simply the camera on your phone, London is a beautiful city that you’ll want to capture!
What to Pack for London in Each Season
Spring (March to May)
- Average Temperature: 8°C to 15°C (46°F to 59°F)
- Rain: Fairly common
Packing Suggestions:
- Light Layers – Thin jumpers, long-sleeve shirts, and a waterproof jacket work well.
- Jeans or Comfortable Trousers – Perfect for the mild temperatures.
- Scarf and Light Gloves – Occasionally, there’s a chill, especially early on in the season.
Summer (June to August)
- Average Temperature: 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), though it can feel warmer with humidity. It often feels particularly hot on the tube this time of year.
- Rain: Occasional
Packing Suggestions:
- Breathable Fabrics – Cotton, linen, and other light materials will keep you cool.
- Sunglasses and Sunscreen -Essential for sunny days.
- Warmer Layer – Even in summer, nights can get chilly, so a light cardigan or sweatshirt is helpful.
Autumn (September to November)
- Average Temperature: 10°C to 18°C (50°F to 64°F)
- Rain: Quite common
Packing Suggestions:
- Layers and Waterproof Jacket – As the temperature varies, a few base layers with a sturdy waterproof jacket is ideal.
- Boots or Weather-Resistant Shoes – Perfect for wet leaves and unpredictable rain.
Winter (December to February)
- Average Temperature: 2°C to 10°C (35°F to 50°F)
- Rain and Potential Snow: Quite frequent rain and occasional snow later in the season
Packing Suggestions:
- Warm Layers – A winter coat, thick jumpers, and long-sleeve tops.
- Hat, Gloves, Scarf – Important to stay warm, especially on windy days.
- Thermal Layers – For those particularly sensitive to cold or planning long outdoor activities like walks in Hampstead Heath.
What to Pack for a London Trip Based on Your Itinerary
- Sightseeing and Museums – Pack casual attire. Londoners are generally stylish but casual, so jeans, t-shirts, and comfortable shoes are fine.
- Nightlife and Fine Dining – Pack smart casual outfits. Check establishment websites for their dress code as many fancy bars and restaurants expect slightly dressier attire, such as a nice shirt, blouse, or even a casual blazer. Many places involve a bit of walking to get to, so comfortable yet stylish shoes are useful.
- Outdoor Parks and Day Trips – Pack weatherproof layers, perfect for Hyde Park, Kew Gardens, or day trips to nearby areas like Windsor or Brighton. Portable chargers are also a great idea for phones if you’re using maps.