London is full to the brim with things to do and see at any time of year. Ensure you’re comfortable and ready for your big city adventure with this London packing guide. Learn what to pack for London, no matter what the season. Plus, you can download a printable version of the packing checklist at the end of this post.
If you’re looking for a great all-round London itinerary – check out these 3-days of highlights for first-time visitors.
Table of contents
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General packing tips for London
Climate
Overall, London has a temperate oceanic climate, meaning it experiences cool winters and mild summers. Though it has a reputation for being rainy, it averages less annual precipitation than cities such as Rome and NYC. It earns its notoriety by dragging out that precipitation over several misty, overcast days at a time, rather than a swift downpour. London generally averages 9-15 rainy days per month, with higher falls in October through January.
Winter temperatures are commonly between 2-10ºC (35-50ºF) and snowfall is irregular. January is the coolest month of the year and along with February is most susceptible to snow. It is generally cloudy and can be windy during this time of year too. For more London climate information, see here.
Spring in the UK, March to May, sees steadily climbing temperatures in London with daily maximums climbing from 12-18ºC (54-64ºF). March and April are the driest months of the year.
Summer is short and mild with July being the warmest month. Summer temperatures range on average from 13-24ºC (55-74ºF). Though there is an occasional heatwave, temperatures rarely surpass 30ºC (86ºF).
Autumn months see declining temperatures going from tops of 16-9ºC (61-48ºF) and increased rainfall. October is the wettest month.
Clothing and comfort
London buildings are well-heated in the winter, but air-conditioning is not common. Therefore, packing light, layerable pieces is essential, allowing you to adjust to the temperature inside and out.
Merino wool is a great option for winter, along with synthetic blends. Down does not fair well in wet environments unless it is contained in a waterproof outer. In summer, opt for linen or cotton but always have a light sweater and/or scarf on standby for the mornings and evenings when the temperature can drop.
London is a very walkable destination, so expect to work up a sweat no matter what time of year. It’s also wise to have a raincoat or waterproof outer layer with you at all times.
Currency
The Pound Sterling (GBP) is the official currency of the United Kingdom. Withdrawing local currency from an ATM on the ground can be the best option for getting a favourable international currency conversion rate. Although London is a very card-friendly city, so you may very well not need any cash at all.
Tipping in restaurants is expected only if there is no service charge added to the bill – make sure you check before leaving anything extra. A customary tip is 12-15%, while no tips are expected in pubs and bars. Taxi drivers will expect a 10-15% tip.
Electronics
Electricity in England is delivered at 230 volts, 50Hz. Depending on where you are travelling from and what kind of appliances you are bringing, you may need a voltage converter. Generally, modern phones, tablets and laptops are made for both 110-127V and 220-240V, but it is best to check. England uses a Type G plug/socket, so you will almost certainly need an international adaptor. English wall sockets also use an on/off switch which you should turn off when not in use.
Environment
London water is safe to drink, so you can save money and single-use plastic by bringing a refillable water bottle.
Think about minimizing other packaging and disposables as much as possible – these guides will assist: 8 Essential Eco-Friendly Travel Products and 5 Steps to More Sustainable Travel.
Etiquette
If you intend to enjoy afternoon tea at an establishment such as The Ritz, you will be required to follow their dress code. It is wise to check this before you start packing to ensure you have the correct attire. No sportswear or jeans are permitted for men or women. Men are expected to wear a jacket and tie to the occasion.
Security
Pickpocketing and petty theft are common in the train/buses and frequently touristed areas. Keep your valuables to a minimum, secure those you must take and don’t flash them around.
Ensure your bag is zipped up and within reach at all times. Cross-body styles are preferable as they can’t easily be pulled off your shoulder.
Don’t leave your phone or wallet sitting visible on a tabletop, even if they are right in front of you – they are easily snatched. Check common London tourist scams here, plus get these general travel security tips.
Travel documents
Ensure your passport has at least 6 months validity and plenty of pages for your new passport stamps. Check whether you require a visa for entry into the UK – it will depend on the country of your passport.
All travellers, should pack copies of their travel reservations, travel insurance details and Covid-19 vaccination record. Not sure if you need travel insurance? See my detailed post here.
All-season London packing list
Before we get into season-specific London packing lists there are a few things that you should pack no matter what time of year you are visiting.
Underwear and bras – Obviously! Pack enough for a week and wash in the shower or bathroom sink for an extended stay.
Sleepwear – This includes a sleep mask and ear plugs. London is a big city and you never know what light and noise might be around to disturb your slumber. A sleep mask is also great if you want to catch a few z’s on the plane or train.
Day bag – Depending on the size of your camera, you can get away with a medium-sized day bag. Choose one with a crossbody strap for extra security and the convenience of being hands-free – better still, a small to medium-sized backpack.
Sunglasses – There are an average of 7-14 sunny days per month in London, so sunglasses never go astray.
Accessories – A cute handbag, jewellery (preferably costume jewellery rather than valuables) or other accessories are great for dressing up a multi-purpose outfit in the evenings.
Gadgets – Headphones, chargers, adapters, camera, batteries, SD card and phone. A portable charger may be necessary if you’re using your phone as a camera, which drains the battery.
Hand sanitiser – Stay healthy while on vacation and always carry hand sanitizer in your day bag for when handwashing facilities aren’t available.
Seasonal London packing lists
Despite what may be considered the official seasons, temperature, wind and rainfall can combine to feel like something completely different in reality. Therefore, I have three seasonal packing lists for London. The months listed against each season aren’t an error, but a reflection of the actual climatic conditions you will likely experience.
What to wear in London in Summer (July-September)
Jeans or tailored long pants – One pair in a dark colour to wear during those cooler days or evenings.
Light bottoms – Two pairs of lighter pants or skirts in natural fabrics to minimize the sweat factor. London summers are mild, so maxi length or cropped, floaty, wide-leg pants are ideal.
Light tops – Four tops in natural fabrics, that can be mixed and matched with your chosen bottoms.
Dresses – A couple of lightweight maxi-dresses can substitute for a top-bottom combo or two.
Light sweater – One light sweater for cooler days/evenings.
Light scarf – One light scarf that you can wrap around your shoulders if it gets unexpectedly cool.
Lightweight raincoat – A poncho or raincoat that folds up small and lightweight is best to have on hand at all times.
Sun hat –Take a wide-brimmed hat for walking between sights and outdoor pursuits like picnics in Hyde Park or visiting Kew Gardens.
Sunscreen – For face, body and lips, especially if you’re not one to wear a hat.
What to wear in London in spring and autumn (April-May and October-November)
Thermals base layer– Just like the winter list, I recommend all cold-bodies begin with full-length wool or silk bottoms and a lighter, sleeveless or short-sleeved base layer on top.
Jeans – One pair in a dark colour to wear day through night. Choose wider leg jeans/pants or a size up to fit your thermals comfortably underneath.
Long pants – One pair of tailored trousers that will look dressier than jeans. I wore tailored wool pants for upscale restaurants and afternoon tea. My husband wore a pair of chinos.
Sweater – One medium-weight sweater.
Layerable tops – Four long-sleeve tops that can be layered in combination or worn on their own. I wore silk blouses over my thermal base layer, topped with a cashmere sweater that doubled as a standalone garment on warmer days.
Coat – A medium-weight coat that will provide warmth and weatherproofing—rain and wind. I recommend one that is long enough to reach down to your knees and has a hood or high collar. You can wear or carry this on the plane to save space in your bag.
Rain jacket or poncho – One big enough to layer over your coat if it isn’t waterproof.
Gloves – One light pair of gloves.
Hat – A warm hat in a style that won’t easily blow off your head, or you’ll end up carrying it instead.
Scarf – One or two lightweight scarves. I found cotton scarves were sufficient at this time of year. I took two in different colours, so I could change up my outfit a little.
What to wear in London in winter (December-February)
Socks – It’s likely you’ll end up with wet socks at some point, so wool or synthetic blends are best for winter. They provide warmth and water-repellancy.
Base layer – Depending on your baseline temperature, thermal base layers can be essential for the coolest days. For me, they are absolutely necessary. Meanwhile, my husband doesn’t wear a base layer unless it’s snowing. I found a full-length bottom and sleeveless or short-sleeved top to be enough for a London winter.
Shirts – Pack 1 long-sleeve shirt for every 2-3 days of your trip.
Sweaters – 2 in Merino wool or cashmere are ideal.
Pants – Pack 1-2 pairs of long pants or jeans. I chose a combination of jeans for casual sightseeing and a pair tailored wool trousers for dressier occasions.
Coat – 2 coats of different weights, one lighter trench coat that provides a shield to wind and rain without a lot of bulk and a heavier wool coat for chilly days is preferable. I pack the Patagonia Tres 3-in-1 jacket that provides both these options in the one jacket.
Rain jacket or poncho – If your coat isn’t waterproof, you’ll need an additional rain jacket. London rain is often accompanied by wind, so choose a longer length rain coat that will help also protect the tops of your legs.
Shoes – Depending on the activities you have planned, you need a pair of comfortable walking shoes and a nicer pair of boots or similar for evening activities, afternoon tea or the theatre. I recommend Gore-Tex (waterproof) shoes or giving your chosen pairs a waterproofing treatment before you pack them.
Scarf, gloves and warm hat – pack 1-2 scarves to vary your outfit day to day and keep you warm, along with a pair of gloves and wind-friendly hat.
Shoes – Two pairs of flat shoes. One that is a solid, supportive pair for walking and another lighter, prettier pair for evenings. Remember that London is a historic city—uneven sidewalks and even cobblestones are a hazard in heels. London is a great city to see on foot and you don’t want any foot discomfort detracting from your holiday.
Moisturiser – For face, body and lips. The constant wind and cool temperatures can be very drying on your skin.
I hope this guide has simplified packing for your London trip – let me know in the comments below. Also, see this international travel checklist for additional pre-departure considerations, along with these things travellers often forget!
Peace, love & inspiring travel,
Madam ZoZo
