London, a city of iconic landmarks, rich history, and vibrant culture, can also be a bit of a fashion enigma. With its unpredictable weather and a blend of classic and contemporary style, packing for your first trip can be daunting. But fear not! This guide will equip you with essential packing tips to ensure you’re stylish and comfortable throughout your London adventure. Whether you’re planning a summer stroll through Hyde Park or a winter visit to Buckingham Palace, we’ve got you covered. Let’s dive into the art of packing for London!
CURIOUS ABOUT WHAT TO WEAR IN LONDON?
Lucky you! If you’ve been following this blog for a while, you know I’m a dedicated anglophile. I’m always planning my next trip to London, and I firmly believe the British capital is the greatest city in the world. Sure, other cities might have better food, nicer weather, or fewer tourists, but, as J.K. Rowling aptly put it, you can’t beat “the history and mystery of London.” The city boasts some of the world’s greatest museums, proximity to excellent day trip destinations, vibrant nightlife, the West End, stunning hotels, historic and cutting-edge shopping, and, of course, that unique pub life.
With all that said, dressing for London as a tourist can be quite the challenge. You want to look stylish in one of the chicest cities in the world, but you’ll also be walking up to 15 miles a day, standing in long lines, and heading out for fancy meals. Plus, it could rain at any moment, often unexpectedly and for varying durations.
But don’t worry! With several trips to the U.K. under my belt, I can help ease your packing anxieties and create the perfect London packing list. So, check that weather forecast (spoiler: there’s a chance of rain), and let’s get those bags packed for an unforgettable trip to London!
REMEMBER TO BRING YOUR PACKING CUBES!
No packing guide would be complete without mentioning my secret weapon: packing cubes! They keep everything organized before, during, and after your trip. I love how they help keep small items neat and tidy in the hotel room, and they’re also perfect for packing souvenirs on your way home!
WHAT’S THE WEATHER LIKE IN LONDON?
Weather is a key factor when packing for any trip, and in London, the ever-present chance of rain often takes precedence over seasonal changes. London experiences the typical four seasons, but temperatures are generally milder compared to the extremes found in the central U.S. For example, July averages around 74°F during the day and 59°F at night, while December sees temperatures of about 48°F during the day and 40°F at night. So, while summers are warmer, they’re not excessively hot—leave the short shorts at home, as many homes and public places in the UK lack air conditioning. On the flip side, you probably won’t need that heavy Canada Goose coat in winter.
DOES IT REALLY RAIN THAT OFTEN IN LONDON?
Yes, it does rain frequently in London. While you might encounter an occasional all-day downpour, it’s more common to experience unexpected showers, often in the afternoon or at inconvenient times. Londoners seem unfazed, often carrying on with their day in wool suits as if the drizzle doesn’t bother them at all. This can put a damper on your sightseeing plans, so having a reliable umbrella and a durable rain jacket is essential. We’ll dive into more details on this later.
WHAT TO WEAR IN LONDON
A TRENCH COAT
The British trench coat is a must-have for any trip to the U.K. Burberry remains the classic choice, now offered in various shorter and more colorful styles. If you prefer a subtler look, a darker, less conspicuous trench is a great option. J.Crew also offers some stylish trench coats that are worth checking out!
A BARBOUR JACKET
Barbour, a quintessential English brand, offers a range of jackets from traditional waxed styles to lighter, quilted options. The waxed jacket is particularly waterproof and, with the addition of a hood, is ideal for a day of sightseeing. Regardless of the season, Barbour is my top choice for exploring London. You’ll enjoy the classic charm of a British brand while staying prepared for any unexpected showers.
The Queen was famously fond of her Barbour coat. When she sent it in for refurbishment—a common practice with Barbour coats, designed to last a lifetime—the company offered her a new one. She graciously declined, preferring to keep her well-loved old coat!
A FEW TOPS
Finding the right sweaters for your trip to the U.K. is essential, as the damp weather can feel chillier than it might actually be. Even if it’s not extremely cold, you’ll appreciate having cozy sweaters to keep warm, especially when enjoying classic British comforts like pubs, tea, and a Sunday roast.
Unless you’re visiting during the peak of summer, packing at least one warm sweater is a must. I prefer turtlenecks for colder months, including spring and fall, as they eliminate the need for a scarf. Brands like Eileen Fisher offer excellent options. Ensure your sweaters fit comfortably under the coat you plan to bring by trying them on together before you leave. For additional options, consider checking out Orvis, LL Bean, and J McLaughlin for dressier sweaters.
Also, pack a couple of lightweight long-sleeved shirts that can easily fit under your jacket. If you need a few nicer tops for evenings out, include them, but don’t overpack blouses. In most cases, a light sweater or long-sleeved shirt will suffice, especially if you’re spending most evenings in the pub.
FEW PAIRS OF PERFECT PANTS
A fun fact to note is that in the U.K., “pants” refers to underpants, so use “jeans” or “trousers” when talking about what Americans call “pants.” For your trip, a pair of jeans and some casual black trousers should work well. I recommend Eileen Fisher’s crepe pants for comfortable travel. As for leggings, they are acceptable in London, but make sure to pair them with a longer shirt or tunic for a polished look.
THE RIGHT SHOES
Finding the right shoes for a trip to Europe can be challenging, but it’s essential for both comfort and style. For London, I recommend packing:
Knee-High or Ankle Boots: These are versatile and great for dealing with rain and walking long distances.
Loafers: Ideal for days when the weather is milder or when you want a break from boots. I’ve found Sam Edelman loafers to be particularly comfortable and stylish.
Clean Sneakers: Opt for a pair that’s not too sporty, like Veja, which are both fashionable and comfortable.
If you’re visiting during the summer, consider bringing a pair of sandals for quick outings, but skip the beach flip-flops, as they can look out of place and get dirty quickly. For rainy months, waterproof boots or booties are a must. Riding boots offer excellent coverage and comfort, but if they’re not your style, ankle boots or lug boots can work as long as you can walk in them all day.
For those with evening plans, sticking to boots or loafers might be your best bet instead of packing high heels. And while sneakers have become more acceptable, sticking to clean, stylish options like Veja will keep you looking chic and comfortable, just like Kate Middleton.
A NOTE ON DRESS CODES…
In the U.K. and across Europe, some establishments such as upscale restaurants, clubs, and religious sites (though less so in the U.K.) may have dress codes. It’s a good idea to check the websites of any restaurants or theaters you plan to visit to confirm their policies on jeans and sneakers. Some places might also require men to wear jackets. As an everyday tourist, this is likely to be less of an issue for you, but it’s worth verifying to avoid any surprises.
DRESSES
On sunny days in London, a dress with a light jacket and loafers is perfect for exploring the city. Europeans typically reserve beach flip flops for the beach, so opt for more appropriate footwear. Boden offers excellent dress options ideal for enjoying the weather or attending a West End show.
Even on warmer days, it’s smart to carry an umbrella, as British weather can be unpredictable. To stay prepared for occasional drizzles, choose fabrics that handle rain well and consider adding tights, leggings, a scarf, and black riding boots. This will ensure you stay cozy and stylish, regardless of the weather.
PURSES FOR LONDON
When choosing a purse for London, the most crucial feature is that it should close fully to deter pickpockets, especially at popular tourist spots and on public transport. While I found London to be less prone to pickpocketing compared to other cities, it’s still wise to avoid large, open tote bags.
Opt for a small, lightweight purse that can carry just the essentials: an umbrella, money, credit cards, your phone, and an Oyster Card. A small crossbody bag is a great choice for ease of access and security. If you prefer more space, the Longchamp Le Pliage is a classic option, even if it’s not British—it’s stylish and practical, and if it’s good enough for The Princess of Wales, it’s good enough for me! For a British touch, check out The Cambridge Satchel Co., known for its beautifully crafted, traditional handbags. I picked up a saddle bag with a long crossbody strap there, perfect for easy touring.
WINTER COAT AND UMBRELLA
When packing for London, consider that it doesn’t usually get extremely cold. If you’re short on space, you might skip a winter coat in favor of a heavy Barbour jacket. However, if you’re traveling between December and March or plan to spend time in colder regions of the U.K., including a winter coat is advisable, especially for evenings out when you might want to dress up.
Avoid bringing your nicest wool coat due to the frequent rain. If you do bring a winter coat, consider packing a trench coat as well. For rainy days, an umbrella is essential. I recommend a compact umbrella that fits into a coat pocket or a small purse for convenience. If you prefer a larger umbrella, it’s often best to buy one once you arrive or borrow one from your hotel rather than lugging it with you.
KEEPING KIDS DRY
Keeping kids dry in London’s persistent rain can be a challenge, but it’s essential for a happy trip. Invest in high-quality waterproof jackets and pants that are both practical and stylish. Don’t forget sturdy, waterproof boots to keep little feet dry. Pack plenty of layers so you can adjust to changing weather conditions. And remember, a good sense of humor and a positive attitude can go a long way in embracing the rain!
CONCLUSION
Packing for London might seem tricky, but with a little planning, you can be ready for anything the city throws your way. Remember, layers are key, and don’t forget that iconic London style often involves a mix of classic and contemporary. So, embrace the unpredictable weather, pack versatile pieces, and get ready to explore this incredible city in style. Happy travels!
