London packing list: What to bring for every season and activity

Essential travel items for any trip to London

No matter when you’re visiting London or what’s on your to-do list, some items are non-negotiable. Think of these as your London travel essentials — they will make your trip smoother whether you're there for three days or three weeks.

• Valid passport. To enter the UK, your passport must be valid for the duration of your stay. However, some airlines may have their own rules, so check both entry requirements and airline policies in advance to avoid a last-minute hiccup. 

• Visa or travel authorization documents. Depending on where you're from, you might need to pack visa paperwork or have an ETA (UK's new Electronic Travel Authorisation for visitors). Check what documents you need and keep printed copies with your passport in case digital versions don't work. 

• Travel insurance. Nobody plans to twist an ankle stepping off a double-decker bus, but accidents happen. Since the NHS isn't free for most visitors, even simple treatments can be expensive. Make sure you get a travel policy for complete peace of mind for everything from medical emergencies to lost luggage.

• Medications and first-aid kit. Bring enough prescription meds (in their original containers) for your entire trip. UK pharmacies are pretty good, but you’re going there to explore, not to overshare with the pharmacist. Pack a basic first-aid kit too — band-aids and ibuprofen take up minimal space but solve major headaches.

• Necessary electronics. Bring your essential devices (like your phone, laptop, or tablet) plus all the chargers and accessories you’ll need. Don’t forget a travel adapter if your plugs aren’t UK-compatible. For more on staying connected in London, see the “Tech and connectivity” section.

• Broken-in walking shoes. London is a great place to explore by foot, so hitting 25,000 steps a day won’t be a problem. Those Instagram-worthy cobblestone streets and historic neighborhoods are beautiful but unforgiving on your feet in uncomfortable shoes! Bring comfortable shoes and save your brand-new booties for when you get home. 

• Layerable waterproof outer jacket. London rain doesn't follow weather forecasts — it shows up when it wants to. A good rain jacket serves double duty as wind protection and can be stuffed into a day bag when the sun inevitably comes out an hour later. We’ll go over what to bring for travel in different weather later in this article. 

• Secure crossbody bag. Crossbody bags are having a moment everywhere, and London is no exception. They don’t just look trendy — they’re practical too! Pickpocketing does happen in tourist spots, so don’t make yourself an easy target. A crossbody keeps your stuff secure while freeing up your hands for taking photos.

• Reusable water bottle. London tap water tastes great and is completely safe to drink, so no need to buy expensive bottled water throughout your trip. Plus, staying hydrated while walking miles through the city helps you avoid that afternoon energy crash that hits most tourists (and spend less on coffee stops). 

• Compact umbrella that won't invert in wind. You can’t go to London without an umbrella, and it better be a “brolly” (as the locals call it) that’s strong enough to withstand some wind! While you’re more likely to experience rain in autumn and winter, a compact umbrella is a good idea to bring to London all year round. 

What to wear in London by season

London weather changes quickly — bright days can turn grey within a matter of minutes. Getting your clothes right means the difference between enjoying your trip and spending it soggy and miserable.

Each season brings its own challenges — from winter’s damp chill to spring’s unpredictable mix of sun and showers. The summer months can get surprisingly hot, while autumn is a bit of a wild card and can go either way.

The key? Always pack layers so you're ready for whatever London's sky throws at you! Let’s look at what types of clothes to pack for London in each season. 

Winter (December-February) packing list for London

London winters are typically cold and wet, though seeing a bit of sunshine is possible. Temperatures hover between 2-8°C (36-46°F), with about 15 rainy days per month, and the sun sets around 4 PM in December — so you'll spend most of your sightseeing time bundled up. Snow isn't common, but the damp cold cuts right through you, so make sure you’re prepared. 

• Waterproof, insulated outerwear. Your most important piece will be a waterproof winter coat that handles both rain and wind. Make sure it’s easy to remove when you head indoors, as the Underground gets warm (even in winter). Bonus points if your jacket can fold up pretty small for easy storage when you're not wearing it.

• Thermal base layers. In winter, layering is key, so pack some thermal tops and leggings to stay comfortable in the cool temperatures. Don’t own any thermals? You’ll find plenty of Uniqlo shops where you can grab some (it’s the most popular shop for thermals here). 

• Waterproof boots. A good pair of boots is a must for your winter visit. Opt for shoes with a strong grip and waterproofing to keep your feet dry and stable on wet, slippery streets. 

• Layerable, cozy sweaters. Pack thick jumpers or long-sleeved tops for layering. You’ll be peeling off layers between cold streets and warm museums, cafes and transport, so make sure they’re easy to add or remove.

• A few accessories. A hat, scarf, and gloves will keep you toasty when the wind picks up. Londoners dress practically in winter, so comfort trumps fashion (of course, it’s great if you can combine both!). 

• Socks. Make room in your suitcase for plenty of thick, moisture-wicking socks. They’ll keep you comfortable and dry when you're walking around in damp conditions. Nothing’s worse than that slushy feeling in your shoes! 

Spring (March–May) packing list for London

Spring in London keeps you on your toes — it’s not uncommon to start the day in three layers and end it in a t-shirt (or vice versa). March still has that winter bite at around 6°C (43°F), while May can surprise you with much warmer weather (reaching even 18°C or 64°F on some days). April might seem like the sweet spot with fewer rainy days, but don’t get too comfortable — sudden showers are common.

• Light waterproof jacket. Spring in London can be wet, so pack a waterproof jacket that’s lighter than your winter coat. A trench coat works well — it’s perfect for rain, and easy to take off when you’re indoors or the sun peeks through.

• Layerable, breathable tops. The secret to your spring packing list is layers, layers, and layers. Pack a mix of t-shirts and long-sleeved tops, along with light sweaters or cardigans. 

• Comfortable jeans. Jeans are a go-to for spring — they’re comfy, versatile, and great for those in-between days when you never quite know if it’s going to rain or shine. Don’t pack any that are too long — they’ll get soggy if it rains. 

• Waterproof, comfy footwear. There’s lots to see in London, so you’ll be on your feet all day. A solid pair of waterproof sneakers or boots will help you handle both sunny days and those surprise puddles.

• A light scarf. Spring mornings can be chilly, but by afternoon, the sun might come out. A light scarf is the perfect accessory to keep you warm in the early hours, without weighing you down when it warms up. 

Summer (June–August) packing list for London

Summer in London might surprise you — it actually gets warm! Temperatures reach 18-23°C (64-73°F), and during heat waves, they can climb even higher. While having some warmer weather in London may sound lovely, most buildings in the UK’s capital don't have air conditioning — neither does the tube. When it's hot, it's really hot and stuffy everywhere you go.

• Light, breathable fabrics. Cotton and linen work best when you're sweating on a packed Central line train. Avoid synthetic materials that trap heat and make you feel even stickier in London's humid summer air.

• T-shirts, sundresses, and comfortable shorts. Don't worry about looking too casual — Londoners happily embrace vacation-style clothing during hot weather! Pack pieces that are comfortable but still look decent for restaurants and attractions.

• Light cardigan or jacket. Essential for air-conditioned restaurants, museums, and cooler evenings. London summer nights can drop to around 12°C (54°F), so you'll be grateful for that extra layer.

• Sunglasses, hat, and sunscreen. London's summer sun can be stronger than you'd expect, and when it's out, there's often little shade on busy streets. Make sure you pack sun protection — you don't want to spend your trip looking like a lobster.

• Small portable fan. When London gets sweltering, a little handheld fan can be a lifesaver on stuffy tube rides and in crowded tourist spots.

Fall (September–November) packing list for London

Autumn in London is a beautiful tease — September often feels like extended summer, October gets moody, and by November you're basically back to winter weather. Temperatures start around 18°C (64°F) in early September and drop to about 8°C (46°F) by late November. The rain also becomes more frequent as winter approaches, so you'll need to up your waterproof game.

• Transitional layers for changing temperatures. Pack pieces that work for both warm and cool days — cardigans, light jumpers, and jackets you can easily add or remove. 

• Waterproof jacket or coat. Think of it as your autumn armor against London's increasingly persistent rain. You'll need something with decent coverage since autumn downpours can last for hours.

• Comfortable jeans or trousers. Perfect for autumn's unpredictable weather — warm enough for cool days but not too heavy when it's still mild. Dark colors are better — they’ll hide the inevitable splashes from puddles.

• Waterproof boots with good grip. The city's older streets don't drain well, so you'll be navigating standing water and slippery surfaces daily. Sturdy, waterproof footwear is essential for safe sightseeing.

• Warm scarf and possibly a light hat. A thicker scarf becomes necessary by October, and you might need a hat by November. Pack pieces that fold small but keep you warm and cosy when the temperature drops.

Packing tips based on trip length

How much you pack for London depends entirely on how long you're staying. Packing for a weekend trip is totally different from packing for a month-long stay — short trips let you check the forecast and pack accordingly, while longer adventures mean preparing for London's full range of moody weather. Here's how to pack smart for any length of stay.

How to pack for a seven-day trip to London

A week in London is perfect for carry-on-only travel. The key is building a capsule wardrobe that mixes and matches effortlessly, so you can feel like you’ve got plenty of options without having to pay for a checked bag.  

• Choose pieces that work together. Pack 3-5 tops, 1-2 light layers like cardigans, 2 bottoms, 1-2 dresses, and 2 pairs of shoes that can be mixed and matched easily. Sticking to a simple color palette is an easy way to make everything coordinate. 

• Select versatile items. Bring a dress that takes you from daytime museum hopping to evening pub dinners, or a cardigan that works as both a light jacket and a cozy layer. Your shoes should be good for walking but still look decent when you pop into a nice restaurant. The goal is making every item pull double duty so you pack less but still have options.

• Pack for exactly seven days. Don't overpack — "just in case" items should be left out, because let's face it, how often do you really use them? Seven days means seven outfits, and you can always buy something locally if needed. London is an expensive city, but you'll find plenty of budget shopping options (from brilliant charity shops to high-street favorites). 

How to pack for a two-week trip to London

Two weeks gives you more flexibility but requires a bit more strategy. You'll definitely need to think about laundry at some point, and honestly, that's liberating — it means you can pack less and worry about it later! 

• Plan your laundry schedule. Pack clothes for about 8-10 days and plan to do washing once during your trip. Most London neighborhoods have laundrettes, and many hotels offer laundry services (though they'll cost you). 

• Focus on versatile, comfortable pieces. Bring items that can be dressed up or down — dark jeans that work for both museum visits and pub dinners, tops that layer well under sweaters, and a few pieces that transition from day to night. Prioritize clothes you actually enjoy wearing since you'll be living in them for two weeks.

• Pack a couple of nice pieces. You might stumble upon a fancy restaurant reservation or last-minute West End theatre tickets. Instead of packing a complete dressy outfit, bring pieces like a blazer, nice blouse, or dress shoes that can transform your regular jeans and tops into more upscale looks.

• Bring enough underwear and socks. If you're doing washing after 6-7 days, pack accordingly. These are the essentials you don't want to run short on, and nobody wants to spend their London trip hunting down emergency underwear at Marks & Spencer.

How to pack for a 30-day trip to London

A month in London means you're basically a temporary resident, not a tourist. Forget trying to pack for every scenario — you’ll end up with excess baggage fees. The secret is thinking like a local and making time for a laundry day. 

• Pack for one week, do laundry weekly. The smartest thing to do is to bring enough clothes for about a week, then wash them every 7 to 10 days. 

• Pack like you're moving temporarily. Unlike for shorter trips, you'll want to pack a few comfort items that make you feel settled — a favorite hoodie, your usual skincare routine, maybe some tea from home. 

• Prepare for seasonal changes. A month means you might experience London's full weather personality. Pack versatile layers that work across temperature ranges — cardigans, light jackets, and pieces that transition between seasons. 

• Take advantage of London shopping. If you need to replace items or buy seasonal pieces, you’ll have an opportunity to visit Camden’s charity shops or the indie boutiques in Shoreditch! 

Activity-specific packing tips

London's got everything — world-class museums, brilliant parks, amazing food, and even beach towns just an hour away! Here’s what to pack for various London activities.

Urban sightseeing 

London's all about exploring on foot, so get ready for weaving through crowds, dodging cyclists, and discovering hidden alleyways. Here’s what to pack for urban sightseeing: 

• Supportive insoles for extra comfort. Even with great shoes, London's hard pavements can be brutal after long hours of walking. Good insoles make a massive difference.

• Portable phone charger. In London, your phone becomes your map, camera, and transport app all rolled into one. Bring a charger so you don’t unexpectedly run out of battery when out and about. 

• Secure camera strap. London's got incredible photo opportunities, but crowded streets and packed tube platforms make dropping your phone surprisingly easy.

• Small, foldable shopping bag. London's full of brilliant markets and vintage shops, and you'll want something to carry purchases without using plastic bags (which you have to pay for, too). A foldable tote bag is a great solution. 

Visiting museums and historic spots 

London's museums are mostly free (brilliant!), so you’ll definitely want to make use of that. Here’s what to pack if you’re planning to visit museums. 

• A light scarf or wrap. Some places like Westminster Abbey are a bit picky about what you wear, so pack something that covers your shoulders and knees — a light cardigan or scarf works perfectly. 

• A small, secure day bag. You’ll want something lightweight but big enough to carry your phone, water, and any small museum shop finds — ideally one that zips closed for crowded indoor spaces.

• Something to pass the time in queues. Some attractions get busy, so we recommend bringing a Kindle or downloading a podcast for something to do while you wait.

Dining at pubs and restaurants

London's food scene ranges from traditional gastropubs to Michelin star restaurants, but most places are refreshingly relaxed about dress codes. Here’s what to pack for dining. 

• Smart-casual outfit for most venues. Dark jeans or decent trousers with a nice top gets you into 95% of London restaurants without any issues.

• One slightly dressier option. Just in case you want to have a special dinner somewhere fancier. 

• Digestive aids for rich pub food. Pack some antacids since London's pub food can be quite a shock to the system. Think steak and ale pies, Sunday roasts with heavy gravy, and fish and chips — all delicious but not so easy to digest for most people. 

Exploring parks and green spaces

London's many parks are gorgeous when the weather cooperates. Here’s what you’ll want to pack if you’re planning to spend some time in London’s parks. 

• Grass and mud-friendly shoes. Pack footwear that can handle everything from dewy morning grass to muddy paths after London's frequent rain showers.

• Light blanket or waterproof picnic mat. If you’re going in the spring or summer, Hyde Park, Regent's Park, and Hampstead Heath are perfect for impromptu picnics in the sun.

• Small backpack for park essentials. You'll want to carry water, snacks, maybe a book, and definitely a light jacket for when the weather changes its mind.

Thames walks and riverside activities

Walking along the Thames is brilliant for seeing London from a different angle, but the riverside creates its own microclimate. Make sure to pack:

• Wind-resistant jacket or windbreaker. The Thames creates breezy conditions even on calm days, and you'll feel much colder by the water than inland.

• Light scarf or neck warmer. Even in summer, the river breeze can make your neck and ears feel chilly during longer walks. 

Beach day trips from London

London's not exactly coastal, but brilliant seaside spots like Brighton, Whitstable, and Leigh-on-Sea are a short train ride away. For a beach day, pack: 

• Swimsuit for warmer days. You might get lucky with swimming weather — but be prepared for a rather refreshing experience. 

• Sun protection. British beaches don’t offer much shade, so pack sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. You can rent beach umbrellas in places like Brighton, but they cost £10-15 per day. 

• Swimming shoes for pebbly beaches. Water shoes with protective soles are essential for UK beaches where pebbles and rocks can be murder on bare feet. 

• Windbreaker or light jacket. Coastal breezes are constant, and even warm beach days can turn chilly once the sun dips behind the clouds.

• Reusable water bottle. Beachside cafes can be busy (and pricey), so a reusable water bottle is a great item to bring! 

Tech and connectivity checklist

Your phone and tech gear are your lifeline in London — they'll help you navigate the tube, find good restaurants, book tables, and capture all those perfect shots of Big Ben. Here's what you’ll need to stay connected throughout your trip.

• An eSIM for the UK. Getting an eSIM for the UK is hands down the easiest way to stay connected on your trip. No hunting for SIM cards, no complicated setup — just activate before you travel and you're sorted. New to eSIMs? Learn about digital SIM cards, how they work, and why they're perfect for travel to London. 

• Charging cables and backups. Bring extra USB and Lightning cables since they tend to break when you need them most, and finding replacements while traveling can be frustrating and expensive.

• A portable power bank. Pack a backup battery for long sightseeing days when power outlets aren't available (and you’re nowhere near your hotel). You'll use your phone heavily for navigation, photos, transport apps, and restaurant bookings around London.

• A Type G power adapter. The UK uses Type G electrical outlets with three rectangular pins and 230V power, so you'll need the right travel adapter. Most modern phone chargers and electronics are dual voltage, so you'll only need the adapter, not a voltage converter.

• Apps to download before you go. Citymapper is essential for navigating London's transport system and gives real-time updates on delays. You may also want to get Visit London — the official city guide app with information on attractions, events, and local recommendations. 

• Entertainment for travel days. Download podcasts and Netflix episodes for flights and tube rides. London's underground has patchy WiFi coverage, so offline content saves you from staring at loading screens during longer journeys.

• Noise-canceling headphones. London can be very loud, especially around major stations and busy streets. Bring noise-cancelling headphones so you can escape the noise once in a while. 

What NOT to pack when traveling to London

Save yourself from lugging unnecessary items and avoid customs headaches. Here's what to leave at home when you're London-bound.

• Items you can easily buy locally. Skip heavy toiletries, books, and excessive "just in case" outfits. London has plenty of chemists, supermarkets, and brilliant bookshops. Plus, if you’re ever short of an item for an outfit, London has a great charity shop scene (in case we haven’t mentioned it yet!). 

• Items restricted by UK customs. You won't be able to bring certain things into the UK, such as fresh food like meat and dairy, weapons including pepper spray, or medications that aren't in their original containers. Save yourself the stress of dealing with customs officers and leave these items at home. 

• Outdated tech. Don't pack appliances that only work on your home country's voltage — like older hair dryers, curling irons, or steam irons. Modern devices like phones and laptops work anywhere, but older appliances can fry when plugged into UK outlets. Instead of bringing vintage electronics or tons of backup chargers, just buy what you need from London's electronics stores (you’ll find plenty of second-hand items for a good price).

Ready to start packing?

Packing for London is pretty straightforward once you get the hang of it. Use the seasonal guides to match your packing to the weather, choose versatile pieces that work in different situations, and keep our London packing checklist handy to take the guesswork out! And don't forget to leave some room in your suitcase for some amazing London finds — from vintage gems in Brick Lane to unique pieces from Islington's indie shops.

Still deciding when to visit? Check out our guide on the best time to visit London to find the perfect balance between weather, crowds, and your budget.

Planning other European adventures? Check out our Europe packing list and our international travel checklist so you don’t miss anything when preparing for your next trip!