WHAT TO PACK FOR LONDON (AND THE REST OF THE UK) : THE ULTIMATE LONDON PACKING LIST
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This post is all about what to pack for a trip to London and the rest of the UK
This is the ultimate London packing list for you if you’re planning a trip to the UK. You’re going to find everything you need to stuff in to your suitcase or backpack to take with you to the capital of England.
It’s going to be concentrated on London as that’s where most people visit when they go to the UK but there will be some general advice for the rest of the UK too.
The UK is a pretty big place and different types of clothes will be more appropriate for different areas than others. For example if you’re just staying in London (which I recommend you don’t and you head further afield to visit some of the other amazing places the UK has to offer) your packing may be a little different if you were heading for a week in the Lake District or Cornwall.
It’s also going to be very different depending on the time of year you’re planning on visiting the UK. Packing for a week in London at Christmas time is going to look a lot different than packing for a week in the summer on the south coast.
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This post is all about what you should pack to visit London including a free printable packing list.
LUGGAGE FOR LONDON
With some places it’s easy to recommend either a backpack or a suitcase but with the UK you could really go with either depending on personal preference.
If you’re a lover of a backpack (me too!) they will work perfectly in London and could be a good choice if you’re covering a lot of ground. You can just throw them on your back and off you go. I’d recommend a good size backpack that you can fit your things in and a small day bag that you can use when you’re sightseeing and out for the day.
Let’s take a look at some good backpacks first.
I’m a big fan of clam shell opening backpacks as I find them easier to use but here are a few different options: both clam shell and top loading backpacks.
Click on each image for more information on each backpack.
My personal favourite and the one I’ve been using for over 7 years of travel is the Osprey Fairview 40l as it’s the right size for my stuff and it’s a clam shell opening. They also do an Osprey Fairview 70l if you’re a bit more of a heavier packer than myself. (I tend to pack pretty light so a 40 litre works just great for me).
If you’re someone who worries alot about the security of your items I highly recommend getting a Pacsafe backpack for the added security details such as loackable zippers and anti puncture fabric.
The Knack Bags for a really good option if you travel with your laptop as they have a specific space for storing your tech and they are expandable for 75% more capacity when needed.
If backpacks aren’t for you and you’d rather wheel your luggage over carrying it here are a few of my recommendations for suitcases.
Once you’ve sorted out you’re luggage it’s time to sort of clothes, toiletries, tech and random bits and pieces you’re going to want for a trip to London.
Let’s take a look at things you may need to go along with your main bag.
You’ll want to take a rain cover for your backpack to make sure you keep your belongings dry. The Great British weather is not at all predictable. It can rain any day, any time of year These LAMA rain covers come in a variety of colours with a reflective strip on them. They fold down really small so when you’re not using it you can just store it in a little pocket on your backpack.
Unfortunately, as with most places in the world, pickpocketing does happen in London particulary in tourist areas. There have been numerous incidents of people having the straps on their bags cut so it isn’t recommended to carry a shoulder or crossbody bag however if you do like that style of bag this anti theft small bag from Travelon is a great choice. It’s pretty small so only big enough for a few things such as your phone, money and passport.
Some people love them and some people hate them. I’m definitely a packing cube fan. I like the organisation it gives me so I‘m not having to search through all of my bag for something, I just have to search through a smaller packing cube.
I like this set as they come in a few different sizes so I can do underwear in a smaller one, pants in a bigger one etc.
Other packing cubes I recommend
If you’d rather go for compression packing cubes these come in a variety of colours and sizes and are really affordable.
These large packing cubes come in a set of 4 and are good if you want the same size packing cubes. You can get them in small medium, large and slim.
TSA Approved Luggage Locks with Flexible Cable
Luggage locks are inexpensive and worth having to keep anything going missing from your checked-in luggage while in transit. If you’re going in and out of the USA, you’ll need TSA-approved luggage locks. If you’re using hostels at all during your travels it’s always a good idea to travel with a spare paddlock for lockers. The locks above are the ones I’ve used for years and they’ve lasted the test of time.
I always travel with a hidden money belt/travel wallet. They can be hidden underneath your clothes and keeps you’re most valuable items like your phone, passport and money hidden from view and on your person. The one above has a water resistant zipper, a cam lock metal slider and an adjustable strap.
Other hidden money belts I recommend
This travel clip pouch is perfect if you’re after something a little smaller. It’s a tiny pouch that clips on the inside of your waist band that just about fits your cash card and some money in. I’ve used this travelling in many places of the world and loved it.
This bra wallet is a really handy piece of kit that’s perfect for ladies. It secures around the middle of your bra or anywhere else on your person that you can clip something on for a discreet place to keep your valuables.
WHAT TO WEAR IN LONDON
The weather in London and the UK changes alot throughout the seasons so it’s important to check the average temperatures and typical weather for the time of year you’ll be coming to London. I have outlined two different packing lists below with links to all the products: one for summer and one for winter.
If you’re travelling to London in the shoulder seasons of spring or autumn you’ll probably need a bit of a mix of the summer and winter list to accomodate for potential hotter weather and potential rainy/freezing cold weather.
SUMMER PACKING LIST
When packing for London and other UK cities you should pack smart/casual clothes that are lightweight and travel well.
You may need a few different shoe options depending on what you’re doing. You’ll want some comfy shoes that are good for walking around and exploring the city during the day. You may also want some sandals incase it’s a little warmer as well as a pair of shoes or boots if you’re planning on going out in the evening as many places won’t let you in if your shoes are too casual.
I’d recommend packing some light sweaters and/or cardigans so it tends to get a bit chilly in the evenings or you could have a cloudier day when a sweater is handy to have. A lightweight waterproof jacket is a good idea as it may just rain at any time.
If you’re planning on venturing out of London into the great British countryside (and I really recommend you do!) then make sure to pack some hiking boots and some good hiking clothes.
Items such as lightweight trousers, shorts and summer dresses are always a good choice for London or anywhere else in the UK.
You will definitely need some comfy day time shoes for walking around London. The best way to get around London is the Tube and so you’ll be doing some walking to the different stops. Some white pump style shoes are perfect.
Earth Runner Sandals
Earth Runners are my favourite lightweight sandals to take away with me. The idea behind them is to ‘free your feet.’ They use minimalistic Vibram® outsoles and a copper & stainless steel earting system to ground you to the earth.
They’re really comfortable with adjustable laces. You can hike in them, use them round the pool or beach, walk around the city. They’re the perfect sandal for London, comfy and not.
Evening shoes
If you plan on going out in the evening in London you will need some evening shoes. They don’t need to be anything particularly fancy but something other than trainers or pumps are handy to have in London. A pair of black pumps will be good enough so you could get in to most places in London in the evening, whether that’s a restaurant or nightclub.
Lightweight sweaters and cardigans are a must in London even in the summer. I would make sure you pack at least a couple that are versitile so that they can be worn both day and night. The temperature drops quite a lot in the evening so if you’re out and about after the sun goes down you’ll want something to keep you warm.
Lightweight waterproof jacket
In the summer the average amount of rainfall in London is pretty much the same as the winter with an average of 8 days per month having some rainfall. With this in mind, even in the summer, it’s a good idea to pack a lightweight waterproof jacket. I love this one as it packs away in to a small bag so it’s handy to pack in your luggage and your day bag.
Jeans are good for the evening or the cooler days you may experience in London in the summer. I’d recommend two paris if you have the space - a blue pair and a black pair so you have options.
Lightweight trousers
One or two pairs of lightweight trousers are a good idea for London. Even better if you can pack some that can go from day to night, again to save space in your backpack. Flexibility and versitility is key when packing for London. This pair come in various different colours and can be dressed up or dressed down.
Denim shorts or other shorts are a great idea for the warmer days you may experience during your trip to London in the summer.
DRESSES
It’s a good idea to pack a few dresses and include 1/2 that can be day or night time dresses. You could pair the dress with your sweaters or cardigans if it’s a little chillier or in the evening or wear it on it’s own if it’s a warmer day. This black maxi tank dress is a really versitile piece and it comes in several colours. This long, maxi dress is a really affordable option that’s great for day or night. This shorter dress is a really cute spaghetti strap swing dress that would be great in London.
T-Shirts
You should take four or five t-shirts with different sleeve options. It’s good to have tank tank or spaghetti strap options incase you are in London for really warm weather as well as capped sleeves or other sleeve styles. If you wanted some different colour options you could go for this pack of three tank tops.
Cotton Undies
Cotton undies are obviously a must. Make sure you take enough pairs with you in whatever style you find the comfiest as you don’t want to have to do any clothes cleaning on your holiday and you probably won’t have to facilities anyway.
If you are on a longer trip to London there are laudrettes around the city that you can use if needed.
Swimsuit
A swimsuit or bikini isn’t an obvious must for a city break but if you have a pool in your hotel it would be niice to bring swimmers just incase you want to have a dip in the pool. If you heading into the countryside there are lots of places you could try wild swimming in the UK. If you’re going to the Lake District I would take swimwear as the lakes are beautiful for a dip.
WINTER PACKING LIST
So you’re planning a winter trip to the UK? Aren’t you brave! In all seriousness it’s not all bad. Yes it can be grey, cold and wet, in fact in probably will be grey, cold and wet for at least some of your winter visit to London but winter, in particular late November and December is magical in London with all the Christmas lights and festive things you can take part in.
You are going to need to pack some warm, cozy layers for a winter visit to London. You could pack the same dresses that you’d pack for a summer visit to the UK and pair them with leggings and a chunky cardigan or jumper.
Instead of shoes I’d pack some comfortable boots for all the walking around London you’re going to do. Boots that are waterproof and warm are the perfect choice.
Generally around London you can’t go wrong with big jumpers with jeans or leggings and dresses with thick tights and cardigans. You ‘re also going to need a smart, warm jacket and hat, gloves and scarf.
If you’re heading out of London into the countryside you’ll want some hiking boots and good hiking clothes with multiple layers, a waterproof coat and warm socks.
One of two pairs of neutral coloured leggings are an excellent idea for a winter trip to London. They can be worn with a dress or a chunky, long jumper. As well as leggings, if you’re packing dresses it’s a good idea to pack a few pairs of tights to wear with them. Make sure you pack thick tights otherwise your legs will get cold in the British winter temperatures.
You are definity going to need some chunky jumpers and cardigans for a winter trip to London. This over size chunky jumper comes in various colours and is great with jeans or leggings. This is a great casual jumper that will work perfectly during the day.
These waterproof knee high boots are perfect for the winter in London. They have a cosy faux fur lingin to keep your toes warm in the cold London winter temperatures.
You’re definatly going to need a warm coat or jacket when your in London for the winter, particularly if you’re out and about at night. You should try and pack something that’s warm and waterproof as it’s likely it will be cold and they’ll be at least some rain during your time in London in the winter.
Hat, gloves and scarf
I’d suggest packing hat, gloves and scarf for a winter trip to London, especially if you’re planning on being out in the evening. The sun goes down and it’s dark in London by around 4pm in the winter and then it gets pretty chilly. If you’re in London at Christmas time going out and seeing Christmas lights or Hyde Park Winter Wonderland then you’ll want some extra items to keep you warm.
This hat is nice and cozy and comes in a range of colours.
These gloves are good as they have a little flap that allows you to have free fingers so you can operate your phone without having to take your gloves fully off.
If you want ot grab yourself a set including a hat, gloves and scarf this set is a great option. Or maybe you like infinity scarves, this one is a great one in a neutral colour.
Cotton Undies
Cotton undies are obviously a must. Make sure you take enough pairs with you in whatever style you find the comfiest as you don’t want to have to do any clothes cleaning on your holiday and you probably won’t have to facilities anyway.
If you are on a longer trip to London there are laudrettes around the city that you can use if needed.
HIKING CLOTHES
If you’re planning on getting out of London and doing some hiking around the beautiful English countryside you really need to take some extras.
Hiking shoes
The most important thing about you’re hiking footwear of choice is that they are enclosed. These shoes from VIVOBAREFOOT are perfect as they don’t take up too much room in your luggage and are really comfy for any long hikes you may do.
A lightweight, breathable raincoat is a must in Thailand especially if you’re travelling during rainy season. Even if you’re there during the dry season rain is always a possibility so packing a raincoat is definitely worthwhile. This raincoat from Regatta is breathable and packable so when you’re not using it you can pack it away. It comes in a range of different colours so you are sure to find one to your taste.
These leggings are great if you plan on getting out of London and doing some hiking in the British countryside. They would also work in London for sightseeing so they’re pretty versitile which is what you want when you’re packing for trips.
TOILETRIES FOR LONDON
Washbags with hooks are great for use in hostels, as you can hang up your wash bag when you’re in the shower and not leave it on the floor to get wet and dirty. A light and thin wash bag is also essential for keeping the weight in your backpack down. If you are someone who travels with a lot of toiletries I recommend this wash bag as it’s on the large size.
If, like me, you’re a more lightweight traveller you could get away with this smaller washbag and save some space in your bag for something else.
Mini Silicone Bottles
If you are going hand luggage only and want to take smaller bottles of your moisturiser/toner or any other toiletry these mini silicone bottles are perfect. As they are 100ml you are allowed to go through airport security with them. Decanting your bigger bottles in to these at home before you leave can be a great way to save some money as minitures can often be quite expensive.
Transparent Liquids Bag
If you’re taking liquids in your hand luggage you’re going to need a transparent bag to go through security. This set of three is perfect and will allow you to travel with any liquids you have. They are doing away with having to put liquids through security separately but as I write this it’s still in full force so you will need some of these bags.
Shampoo and Conditioner bars
I always go for shampoo and conditioner bars when I’m travelling to cut down on the plastic I’m using and to try and save some space. It took me a while to get used to using bars and I feel they’ve progressed so much in quality over the last few years. I’ve tried many over the years and the Ethique ones are my favourite. They are a little pricey but they last for ages. If you try the Ethique and you don’t like them I’d encourage you to try a different brand as they’re all slightly different and some work really well on my hair and others I just don’t like and you might be the same.
Some other brands that may work for you
Faith in Nature : their shampoo bars are pretty good and come in a range of smells.
Eco Warrior : I just love the smell of their orange and ginger shampoo bar.
WILD refillable deodrant
I love my WILD deodrant! I got it for my birthday years ago and I’ve used nothing else since. When I’m travelling I love that I can take little refillables if I need to although I hardly ever have to as they last for so long. They do so many different fragrance too.
Whilst London and the UK aren’t known for their sweltering hot temperatures it’s always a good idea to take some suncream with you whilst travelling. Protecting your skin on a daily basis whilst you’re out enjoying yourself is vital. This Blue Lizard sunscreen is great for sensitive skin, it’s natural and also comes in SPF50. It does take a little while to rub in but you’re travelling, you’ve got time!
Aloe vera gel is a must when you’re travelling. It’s so versatile and can be used as a moisturiser, soother and after sun. If you’re lucky enough to have a fridge I recommend storing it in there which will take it to the next level when you use it. If you have a little sunburn (it’s possible in England, I promise!) rubbing some cold aloe vera in to the area stright from the fridge feels amazing!
It’s very important to keep your lips healthy and using a good SPF lipbalm like the Neutrogena Lipcare is perfect.
Tea Tree Essential Oil
Tea tree oil is one of those ‘fits all situations’ products. It’s a powerful antiseptic for minor cuts and scrapes, anti-mould and anti-fungal treatment. It’s great to throw in with your washing and ideal for freshening up smelly bags.
Razor
If you like to remove body hair I’d recommend this handy travel razor from Gilette. It’s nice and compact and is able to travel through in your hand luggage.
FIRST AID ITEMS FOR LONDON
Hopefully when you’re travelling you won’t need any medical items but it’s always best to be safe rather than sorry. I always travel with a mini first aid kit and several other items that come in useful.
Travel first aid kit
You can, of course, curate your own first aid kit but if you don’t want to go to that trouble this mini first aid kit has all the essentials. Before you leave, take a good look through it so you know what you have, take out anything you don’t think you’ll need and add any extras you want to take more of such as extra plasters or medication.
Tiger balm is another must for me when I travel anywhere. It’s an ideal remedy for headaches, sore muscles and insect bites. It’s super versatile and a must on my London packing list.
HANDY THINGS TO PACK FOR LONDON
This is only necessary if you’re staying for a long time and you’re going to be doing laundry whilst you’re in London. If you’re only there for a short time (a week or so) I wouldn’t bother with this item. Unless you like to put your dirty stuff in something separate after you’ve worn it. I personally do like to do this so I always pack a wash bag like this one to put my dirty clothes in.
Travel clothes line
This is only a worthwhile item to pack if you’re going to be doing laundry. When I am doing laundry on a trip I do find having this handy travel clothes line useful for drying my clothes after I’ve hand washed them. It’s not very big and doesn’t fit all my clothes on but it’s helpful for a day or twos worth of clothes and no pegs are neeed which is fantastic.
If you are going to hand wash any of your clothes in London you’ll going to need to take some travel wash with you. This Dr Backmann travel wash is the best one out there and will do the job of keeping your clothes clean.
I find these over the door hooks can be really handy for various different things when I’m travelling and I always keep one in the bottom of my bag. The most common thing I use them for is if there’s no hook to hang my towel I can easily create my own. They’re lightweight and hardly take up any room.
Depending on the time of year or type of accomodation you’re staying in will depend on if you need to take a towel with you to London. If you’re travelling in summer and heading to any wild swimming spots outside of London I’d recommend a towel. I’d also recommend a towel if you’re staying in hostels in London taking a towel with you as they may or may not provide one for your showers.
I love these from Dock & Bay. They fold up to be pretty small and are 3x faster at drying than normal towels which is always handy when you’re on the road.
Travel cutlery
I use my travel cutlery all the time when I’m travelling. I like that it means I don’t have to use single use plastic anywhere and I find having a set just really handy. Maybe it’s something you wouldn’t use every day like myself but as they’re so lightweight I think they’re a worthwhile item to pack in your bag.
There’s so many different cutlery sets on the market to choose from and I’ve probably tried them all over the years! If you don’t like the look of the one above some other great options include:
this nifty device that combines a spoon on one side, fork and knife on the other.
this CrocTool device is similar to the WildPeak one but made of metal with the added benefit of having a peeler and a bottle opener on. It’s slightly more expensive buy worth it if you’d use the other tools on it.
HeroClip Carabiner
Carabiners are a must for any backpacking trip! These HEROCLIP ones come in 4 different sizes with the medium ones being able to carry 60lbs so they’re pretty strong. I always just have a few clipped to the outside of my backpack and at some point during a trip they come in useful for something or other.
Waterproof dry bag
I love having a dry bag with me. When I’m doing lots of swimming I use it to put my wet swimmers in or to put my stuff in when I’m doing a water sport. In London this isn’t a use I get from it but if you’re heading to other placeas in the UK where you may be going in the sea, taking part in water activties or going to the Lakes it comes in handy. This set from Earth-pak also comes with a waterproof phone case that you can throw your phone in whilst you’re in the sea/lake/river.
Personal safety alarms are a really good idea to travel with, particularly if you’re a solo traveller. This one is compact and easily fits in my day bag. It also has a bright flashing LED light and a very loud alarm when activated.
Lifestraw Go Water Bottle
The tap water is perfectly drinkable in the UK. I’m English and drink filtered tap water constantly but I do recommend taking a Lifestraw Water Bottle. This will filter the tap water and makes it taste a little better. You don’t want to constantly be buying bottles of water, for the benefit of both the environment and for your wallet. It comes with a handy clip so you can attach it to your day bag too.
Bag sealer clips and silicone bags
Having bag sealer clips and silicone bags are a really handy thing to have when your backpacking. The bag sealer clips are useful for any items you’ve bought that you want to take to your next location. Sealing the item up with a clip helps to keep it fresher for longer and stops and spillage. Silicone bags are also handy for keep food fresh and storing any snacks.
Digital luggage scale
Travelling with a digital luggage scale is a really good idea especially if you’re taking hand luggage with weight limitations. You can avoid paying unexpected baggage fees by using an accurate luggage scale to ensure you keep within the weight allowance.
TECHNOLOGY FOR LONDON
Smart Phone
Taking your smart phone to London is a must for many reasons. These days none of us go far without our phone. It’s great for keeping in touch with friends and family, finding information about activities or hotels and snapping photos from our travels. Personally, I’m an Apple girl so my iPhone goes everywhere with me but obviously take your smart phone of choice.
Kindle
Taking a Kindle is a great idea if you love to read. Sometimes it’s great to hold an actual book but it makes the most sense to save on space and weight when travelling by investing in a Kindle and getting a Kindle Unlimited plan. A benefit to this plan for travellers is that most of the Lonely Planet Travel Guides are available to read for free on the plan.
Lightweight Laptop
I don’t always travel with my laptop but if I’ll be doing any vlogging or blog work whilst I’m somewhere I’ll take my MacBook Air with me. It’s lightweight, fits in my bag easy and perfect for travelling.
External Hard Drive
I always travel with an external hard drive as I’ve lost so many photos and videos in the past. Carrying a SSD hard drive with me means I can transfer my photos and videos off my camera and phone and (hopefully) not lose them.
Camera
I used to travel with the big Canon DSLR which I loved and captured some amazing photos with so if you want a big camera I recommend this one. I did switch to this smaller camera which I now use for vlogging my travels and I much prefer the more discreet camera and not having to lug around anything too heavy.
Power Bank
My phone battery gets a hammering when I’m travelling: from snapping photos and videos all day to using maps to navigate around a strange area I’m using it alot so if you’re like me you’ll want to carry a power bank to ensure you don’t lose charge half way through the day. I’ve recently converted to this one and I really love that it’s powerful enough to give me 8 full charges of my phone and it has multiple ports so if I’m travelling with a friend that needs some extra juice I can give them some.
Travel Adapter
If you’re travelling with lots of things that only need a USB connection I’d recommend a universal travel adapter with multiple USB and just one actually plug like this one.
If you have lots of actual plugs you want to plug in like me (I often have my Mac and two camera chargers) I’d recommend something like this extension cable that has 3 plugs and 6 USB ports. You can then just take a small travel adapter and you’re good to go.
More Information About London
LONDON ITINERARY: In our article The Perfect 2 Days in London you’ll find a detailed itinerary for exploring London. If you only have one day in London you can find out the most important things to fit into your day in this 1 Day London Itinerary.
LONDON TRAVEL ADVICE: Here are the important things to know if it will be your first time in London. Included in this article are all my best hints and tips for visiting London for the first time. The Best 49 Things to do in London article will help you plan your London itinerary. If you’re wondering what foods you should try when in London read this Best British Foods You Have to Try.
WHERE TO STAY: If you’re unsure on the different areas in London and where would be best to stay make sure you read this Best Places to Stay in London article.
PACKING FOR LONDON: If you’re wondering what you should pack when visiting London read this Packing for London and the Rest of the UK Guide.
LONDON AT CHRISTMAS: For an overview of the best things to do in London at Christmas here are 15 things to do in London at Christmas. I also have guides to the best Christmas lights, best London Christmas window displays and best Christmas markets in London. Learn how to put it all together in this great London Christmas Itinerary.
More Information for your Trip to the UK
If you’re struggling to decide other places to visit in the UK read Best Cities to Visit in the UK
I also have many other UK city guides and which you can read by clicking on the links.
ENGLAND: How to visit Liverpool from London, visit best beaches near Liverpool and find out the best things to do in Liverpool, must sees in Manchester, make the most of your time in Brighton. Visit the Roman city of Chester or head to the stunning Lake District.
SCOTLAND: Discover the best things to do in Edinburgh
WALES: Llangollen
Read all of my articles about England in the United Kingdom Travel Guide.
LONDON ESSENTIALS
Planning a trip to London? Here are some of the resources and tools I personally use to organise my travel plans in the Kingdom.
FLIGHTS : Find the best deals on flights to London using Skyscanner.
VISAS : Use iVisa to check if you need a tourist visa for London and apply for an expedited visa online. Use OneWayFly to obtain proof of onward travel/hotel reservation for your visa application if needed.
TRAVEL INSURANCE : Insure your trip with my preferred insurance for single trip and annual cover HeyMondo
AIRPORT TRANSFER : Pre-book your hotel transfer from Stanstead Airport, Heathrow Airport or Gatwick Airport
ACCOMMODATION : Find the best hotel deals in London on Booking.com
DAY TRIPS : Find the best city tours and day excursions in London on Viator or Get Your Guide.
LONDON GUIDEBOOK : Pick up a copy of the latest Lonely Planet Guidebook for London for a good read and to help you plan your trip.
VIDEOS FROM LONDON
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