The Perfect London Packing List – 19 Things You Should Carry

Having trouble packing for London? Because as a super, unstylish American, Iโ€™m right there with you and FEEL your pain. Legit, I need a London packing list JUST to make sure that I donโ€™t stick out like a sore thumb during any trip to London.

Therefore, to save yourself from any excessive, packing for London related anxiety and just stick with this tried and true guide and youโ€™ll be totally fine. Because I promise this London packing list will not only help you decide what to bring to London, but it will also help you create a stylish, London wardrobe that you can be proud of.  

You never know people might even start to think youโ€™re a localโ€ฆuntil you open your mouth. LoL. Sorry, but I canโ€™t fix your accent.

FYI thoughโ€ฆ This checklist for traveling to London is a guideline only. So feel free to tailor these suggestions to match your own personal style.

I just like having a list of things to pack for London because inevitably, I always forget something. And itโ€™s never anything minor like a tweezer. Itโ€™s always something insanely essential like ALL my underwear (shudders in horror).

So since this phenomenon is very unfun, I donโ€™t want this to happen to you. Instead I want you to be MUCH better at life than me. I want you to be able to pack seasonally appropriate London outfits that match the overall style of the city.

As a result, youโ€™ll feel 10,000 times (obviously thatโ€™s en EXACT figure) more confident during your London trip since youโ€™ll look less like a tourist and more like a street-savvy local who knows exactly how to create a perfect UK packing list. 

This post may contain affiliate links. Please see my disclosure for more information. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases. 

But I still donโ€™t know what to pack for London!

Take a deep breathe, namaste it up, and relax because all my packing for London secrets will be revealed. Sadly though you will have to leave those UGG boots, high top sneakers, ratty sweatpants, and half destroyed flip-flops at home.

Yeah Londoners typically exude style and confidence than their American bretheren.

Therefore youโ€™ll want to create a packing list for London that embraces confident feminity, with a dash of edge for good measure. So think stylish and fit, with a conservative flair that is NOT overwhelmed by vibrant colors. AKA, Donโ€™t Dress Like a Rainbow Brite.

Instead, minimize the colors in your London wardrobe, ensuring that none of your London outfits consist of more than three colors,

Thatโ€™s why your checklist for traveling to London should include a dressy top that youโ€™d feel comfortable wearing to work, and a nice pair of jeans or dark colored pants (One of my favorite packing tips is to leave the jeans at home since they are bulky and retain odors).

Pro Tip: If you CANNOT live without jeans, then the only jeans/womenโ€™s travel pants that I ever wear are Aviator Travel Jeans! WOOT WOOT! Not only are they the most comfortable pair of jeans that Iโ€™ve EVER owned (I literally could sleep in them).

But they have Grand Canyon level deep pockets (with zippers), and are insanely flexible/durable, making them amazing in basically every way possible, minus the high price tag. But totally worth $110 since they last FORVER.

The intoxicating beauty of the London skyline is calling. So make sure you don't forget anything with this awesome, London packing list.
The intoxicating beauty of the London skyline is calling. So make sure you donโ€™t forget anything with this awesome, London packing list.

The Ultimate London Packing Checklist!

1. Rainjacket

Since it rains a lot in London (DUH), everyone must have a rain jacket on their London packing list.

โญ๏ธ Rating: 4.2/5 (713 Reviews) Price: $76 Details: Read more on Amazon!

Look, we all know that it rains a lot in London. I mean, locals practically do a celebratory dance when they see the sun. Therefore packing a rain jacket of some kind is a total must.

And my personal favorite? The Cole Haan packable raincoat! Not only does it neatly and easily fold up into your suitcase, but it has a removable hood and a charming belt, that when used, gives you a more customizable, feminine fit.

Plus the fabric is durable, comfortable, waterproof, and heavy enough to be worn throughout the spring and fall. Just wear a sweater underneath and you should have no problem staying warm.

However this jacket does run a bit small, especially in the back and arms, so definitely try and order a size or two up.

โ€œGreat packable raincoat. Love having detachable hood and the longer body length. Kept me dry in an absolute downpour while walking around an outdoor show. Love it!โ€

Suzanne (read more reviews now!)

When packing for London though always remember that the weather in London can be slightly manic and change rapidly. Therefore always check the weather forecast before you depart since there is nothing worse than being totally unprepared for the weather at your final destination.

Also pack only for the activities that you know youโ€™ll be doing.

AKA: If you donโ€™t plan on hiking then leave the hiking boots behind. Or, if you know that youโ€™ll be walking the not so mean streets of London, then sacrifice that pair of Stilettos for a nice pair of walking shoes or comfortable ankle boots.

2. Boots

โญ๏ธ Rating: 4.2/5 (746 Reviews) Price: $75 Details: Read more on Amazon!

Since the weather in London tends to be a bit damp and cold, packing a nice pair of warm, walking boots is a must!

My Pick? The UGG Boots! Seriously one of the BEST pair of boots that I have EVER bought! Not only are they cute AF, and mad comfortable to BOOT (get it), but they are waterproof and come with an awesome zipper that helps you quickly and easily remove them at airport security.

Plus they have a wool insole to help keep your feet warm and a rubber sole on the bottom for added traction (there are also little brown flecks in the sole that are adorable).

โ€œSuper comfy! I usually wear an 8.5 but I think an 8 would have fit perfect! Regardless they are super comfortable! Keep my feet clean and dry and even tho get good a dirty they wash right up like new with dawn dish soap and warm water!โ€

Hanni (read more reviews now!)

So if youโ€™re looking for a pair of boots that hold up to the wear and tear of daily life, but still look good in the process, then these are the boots for you (these boots are also perfect for your winter London packing list).

However they do run a bit small so I would definitely consider ordering a half size up. Theyโ€™re also perfect if youโ€™re doing some London night tours.

3. Stylish Day Bag

โญ๏ธ Rating: 4.7/5 (1,816 Reviews) Price: $45 Details: Read more on Amazon!

When shopping for a carry on bag I prefer a stylish backpack, like the Bebamour College Backpack, when I travel to London.

Personally this bag is my fave since itโ€™s sleek, stylish, and has an awesome, wide mouth opening that allows you to see everything in your carry on bag at once (no straight up, scavenger hunts as you frantically rifle through your bag, searching for your passport).

Plus not only does it fit all of my electronics (camera, phone, laptop, tablet), without making me resemble the Hunchback of Notre Dame, but it also has two handles at the top so that I can carry it as a tote if my back gets sore.

โ€œI used this as a work bag for 4 years and then once I and my daughter we transitioned to using it as a diaper bag. It worked perfectly for both uses so we are getting a ton of life out of this affordable bag!โ€

Emily (read more reviews now!)

Itโ€™s also comfortable to carry when full, even if itโ€™s a bit snug underneath the seat of an airplane.

One down side? Apparently, itโ€™s a diaper bag but that wasnโ€™t a huge deal to me. I just took out the changing pad and put my USB cords in the front pocket. Thereโ€™s also a HUGE laptop pocket and a zippered pocket that is perfect for all of your valuables. 

Another negative? The water bottle holder is also pretty tiny and not super functional but hey, nothing in life is perfect. Remember though if youโ€™re carrying a backpack and traveling alone in London, you wonโ€™t be able to see behind you.

Therefore anyone could steal your stuff and youโ€™d probably have no idea. Thatโ€™s why I always put a lock on my bag and only bring enough cash with me for the day. This way if my bag does get stolen, at least I still have some cash and credit cards back at the hotel that I can use.

Pro Tip: Not sure what to pack in your carry on? Click here! I have a ridiculously long article ALL about it!

4. Comfortable Shoes

โญ๏ธ Rating: 4.4/5 (3,408 Reviews) Price: $70 Details: Read more on Amazon!

โ€œI love getting blisters and making my heels bleed from way too much walking!โ€ said no one ever.

Okay this one is kind of obvious but I think the real challenge is finding comfortable shoes that donโ€™t make you look like a total tourist.

Because London is one massive city. So even if you take the Tube everywhere (because no one can afford to cab it all the time), youโ€™ll still need a pair of stylish walking shoes that wonโ€™t make your feet beg for mercy.

Thatโ€™s why my go-to walking shoe is definitely the Steve Madden Womenโ€™s Gills Fashion, even though I was a bit worried when I bought them.

See a while back, I had gotten a pair of quilted, Steve Madden slip-on sneakers, and they were exactly what I was looking for. They were stylish, just as comfortable as regular sneakers, and really easy to slip on and off.

โ€œMost comfortable shoes I ever owned. This is my second pair.โ€œ

Linda (read more reviews now!)

However until I broke them in, they gave me wicked AWFUL blisters. Thatโ€™s why when I finally caved and got these shoes, I was a bit nervous that they might not be comfortable. But, I learned from my mistakes and diligently researched these shoes before I bought them.

Thatโ€™s also why I ordered a size up as a preemptive strike against any possible blisters of doom. And I โ€˜m overjoyed to say that my love for all things Steve Madden has once again been restored!

In this model not only is the heel of the shoe rounded and padded, to prevent blisters: But theyโ€™re also super comfortable, last, a LONG time, look good with almost any outfit (just be sure to buy a neutral color) and are easy to get on an off.

An awesome pair of cute walking shoes for anyone who wants to feel like a total boss while walking down the streets of London.

Pro Tip: Socks look gross with these shoes so if you wear them to the airport and donโ€™t want to step on the nasty floor in bare feet then definitely pack some no-show socks.

5. Chunky Knit Sweater

โญ๏ธ Rating: 4.3/5 (14,542 Reviews) Price: $28 Details: Read more on Amazon!

In general London, and most of the UK really, are known for having rather damp weather. Therefore itโ€™s always smart to bring something nice to throw on, just in case the weather changes and it gets chilly.

So instead of rocking a sweatshirt with unintended holes for your thumbs. Why not try a chunky knit sweater like this one? Not only do these sweaters keep you warm, but they really pull an outfit together without making you look like youโ€™re trying too hard in a Hillary Clinton power suit.

โ€œI ordered in Black and Tan as lightweight travel jackets. I loved so much I ordered 4 more in different colors! Very nice material, true to size, and extremely versatile for layering. I wear to work, use for travel, and to dress up any casual outfit. Great value for the price and packs well. Colors are beautiful and the garment washes well. Canโ€™t recommend enough!โ€

Janet (read more reviews now!)

Plus chunky knits help keep you warm and toasty on those over-airconditioned, long-haul flights. I happen to love this one by NewChoice since itโ€™s soft, comfy, and drapes open in a charming way. (FYI it doesnโ€™t have any closures which is kind of annoying).

Plus it falls just above the knees, has incredibly deep pockets, offers a flattering v neck, and fits well in all the right places.

However the stitching is a bit odd and gives it an almost terry cloth look. It also isnโ€™t made for really cold weather, so donโ€™t rock this sweater in the dead of winter

6. Leave the Tye Dye Behind

I didnโ€™t get this memo my first time in London. Therefore, I looked like an overgrown pinata in my insane kaleidoscope of colors. Yeah, donโ€™t be like me. In general locals prefer subdued colors like blue, grey or brown, especially during the winter and fall. And if they do use color, itโ€™s typically a pop of color from a signature accessory.

But feel free to wear what you want. Just remember that if you wear a bunch of super bright colors, itโ€™s a dead giveaway that youโ€™re a total tourist. Thatโ€™s Why I Love this Shirt!

It has a feminine, baggy fit that is still attractive. I also love the inspiring quote and the neutral color that pairs well with a colorful accessory. Plus Itโ€™s Only $11 and Iโ€™ve Worn it a Bunch of Times and It Hasnโ€™t Worn Out. 

Not into the T-shirt Look? You can always pack a nice sweater dress too! In a nice neutral color, they look great and keep you nice and warm, like the one below.

7. Bring Sunscreen and a Scarf

What, You Havenโ€™t Met Casper the Friendly Ghost? Yeah, thatโ€™s me, your pasty white friend with the passport. Thatโ€™s why even in London, I still need to think about the sunโ€™s effect on my skin.

Therefore I suggest packing sunscreen and a nice scarf to protect you while youโ€™re out exploring some of my favorite, top London cafes. Typically I wear a hat since they look lovely and really enhance the quality of your photos.

โ€œEverything it hoped it would be, just beautiful.โ€

Elizabeth (read more reviews now!)

Sadly though London can get pretty windy and result in the loss of your aforementioned hat. Thatโ€™s why itโ€™s probably best to pack a nice scarf and not a hat.

And this scarf is extra awesome! Not only is it incredibly light, and available in a ton of fantastic colors, but itโ€™s also long enough to wear as a scarf, sarong or headwrap.

Making it a true carry on essential when packing for London.

8. Selfie Stick Free is the Way to Be! But Donโ€™t Forget Your Photography Gear!

If you need one, this tripod is light, easy to use, inexpensive, and perfect for someone who isn't a professional photographer. But remember, you get what you pay for so don't expect professional photography equipment level awesome.

 

If you need one, this tripod is light, easy to use, inexpensive, and perfect for someone who isnโ€™t a professional photographer. But remember, you get what you pay for so donโ€™t expect professional photography equipment level awesome.

In general, Iโ€™m not a huge fan of selfie sticks. I dunno why, but they feel very self-indulgent to me. So as a solo traveler, with no Instagram husband to speak of, I suck it up and get up at the crack of dawn.

Iโ€™ll then wipe the sleep deprivation from my face, grab my tripod, and take photos while everyone else is sleeping. If this doesnโ€™t work for you thatโ€™s totally cool. But just know that in most major cities, the selfie stick is the calling card of a naive tourist.

Therefore, Leave the Sehfie Stick at Home and prepare for that socially awkward moment when you need to ask a total stranger to take your picture.

Kidding! I hate being social so instead, I usually bring a tripod since Iโ€™m also not confident in another personโ€™s ability to take my photo.

No, Iโ€™m Not Anal Retentive or Anything (Note the intense sarcasm). And while weโ€™re on the subject of cameras, there are a few other photography essentials that you might want to pack as well. Because truthfully, London is an insanely photogenic city that is filled with a vast array of photo spots that youโ€™re gonna want to take advantage of.

โ€œIโ€™ve used this with a number of different cameras for photography and streaming and Iโ€™ve had no problems using it with any of the cameras.โ€

Vincent (read more reviews now!)

Thatโ€™s why you might want to pack some photography gear like spare batteries, spare memory cards, any type of lens you may need, a UV filter, and a great camera bag to keep all this expensive gear safe!

My favorite camera bag happens to be any of the amazing bags over at GATTA. Why? Well, you need a nice bag to protect your absurdly expensive camera from damage while youโ€™re strolling through London.

But most camera bags are ugly AF and not something that you want to be seen with every single day. The Solution? GATTA bags! Seriously, they are the highest quality and most stylish camera bags that I have ever used.

Sure, theyโ€™re a bit on the pricey side, but totally worth the investment in my humble opinion. Personally I love the Rosewood Camille (above) and the Chloe Noir (smaller, chic, and black).

Both of these cameras are stylish on the outside and have a fabulous, felt like interior with an adjustable divider that cushions your camera and protects it from damage.

Pro Tip: Pack some extra Ziploc bags to put your wet clothes in or to keep your electronics dry.

9. Travel Insurance

Warning I will now channel your mom and dad and start to lecture you about travel safety, so be prepared. You ALWAYS NEED to purchase travel insurance for EVERY single trip you take!

Sure, itโ€™s tempting to forego insurance when youโ€™re in a major city and feel like nothing bad could happen. But donโ€™t do it. Because truthfully no one ever expects some horrible medical tragedy to befall them or for someone to steal all their stuff.

I mean, I sure didnโ€™t anticipate my wallet getting stolen in Barcelona or someone scamming me out of thousands of dollars, right before my trip to Norway, forcing me to cancel the trip. But this stuff does happen and thatโ€™s why you always need to be prepared.

Thatโ€™s why I LOVE World Nomads Travel Insurance! Sure, theyโ€™re a little on the expensive side but so what?

Insurance is one of those things that you donโ€™t want to skimp on. You just canโ€™t afford to be cheap when it comes to your health and well-being (trust me, Iโ€™ve tried about a billion different companies and they are the best). 

But more importantly World Nomads travel insurance covers almost any destination that you might want to visit (besides SUPER offbeat places like Pakistan), gives you a fantastic level of coverage that includes just about any travel mishap possible, short of getting eaten by a sea monster, itโ€™s easy to customize, and you can extend or change your travel insurance policy while youโ€™re on the road. 

Pro Tip: If your gear is worth less than a $1000, get the basic plan. If your gear is worth more than a $1000, get the explorer plan (both have $100,000 worth of emergency medical coverage).

So heed my words and purchase travel insurance, even if itโ€™s not with World Nomads. Because trust me the last thing you want to do is declare bankruptcy because your medical bills are insanely expensive. Okay, lecture over.

10. Lipstick-Sized Portable Charger

Raise your hand if you carry electronics with you on vacation? (This girlโ€™s hand shoots up) Iโ€™ll admit it, Iโ€™m a tech-dependent Milennial who would probably fall down a well or get eaten by a bear if I didnโ€™t have my GPS with me at all times.

โ€œDidnโ€™t need anything fancy all the bells and whistles. Just needed a phone charger on stand by. I drive for a living and could be in any different vehicle from one day to the next and you never know if the cigarette lighter is going to be working, I misplaced my first one this is my second anchor 5000 charger it works just as they said it would. would buy again.โ€

Thestal (read more reviews now!)

Thatโ€™s why if the battery on my phone dies, itโ€™s like a Defcon 5 level state of emergency. But never fear thatโ€™s where this handy, pint-sized portable charger comes in. So take a deep calming breath, namaste it up, and relax because this gadget will recharge multiple devices and save you a trip back to your hotel.

The Best Part Though? This little charger is tiny and can easily fit in your day bag; a fact that keeps your hopes of becoming the ultimate minimalist packer very much alive.

Pro Tip: Friendly reminder not to forget your UK power adapter! Remember, the UK uses a higher voltage than the US; a fact that will render your electronics totally useless if you plug them into an active outlet (remember that you may need to flip a switch to turn the outlet on).

So always pack a dual voltage universal adaptor that you can use all across the globe, like the one below. Plus, it has extra USB plugs so that you can charge multiple devices at one time!***

11. Electronics

Since Iโ€™m probably not the only tech-dependent millennial out there, I figured it was a good idea to add an assortment of electronics to this insanely long, London packing list. Now since the UK has a 220v, three pin system, this basically means that everyone, besides a local, will need a travel adapter (see above).

Bear in mind though if youโ€™re traveling from the good old US of A (and my stats show that most of you are), some of your electronics might not work, even with a travel adapter. I mean most laptops, cellphones, and cameras should be totally fine, but many hair dryers, curling irons, and hair straighteners wonโ€™t be.

These electronics just donโ€™t typically support multiple voltages and will probably fry like bacon. However there are a ton of dual voltage straighteners and hairdryers out there for you to buy. I just never use them so Iโ€™ll leave that purchase up to you.

Youโ€™ll also want to bring your smartphone. DUH. Now if you want to use the internet while youโ€™re abroad, you can always pick up a sim card and just put it in your unlocked phone while you travel.

Me? I use T-Mobile and get unlimited data internationally for like $50 a month. Therefore I can use the WIFI on my phone pretty much all across the globe, at no extra cost.

I can also make calls and text, but that service isnโ€™t unlimited. Thatโ€™s why you might want a sim card if you make a ton of calls and texts internationally. Also donโ€™t forget to pack a decent pair of headphones, which is the socially acceptable way to ignore people who try and talk to you.

Personally I love a good pair of noise-canceling headphones since they help drown out the ambient noise while you listen to music or watch a movie. But any pair of headphones will do. It just depends on your budget.

Also, depending on your your needs and preferences ou might also want to pack a tablet with a keyboard, a lightweight laptop, and an e-reader like a Kindle. But whatever you do choose wisely and donโ€™t overpack!

12. Portable Charger

Since we are on the topic of electronics lets talk about portable chargers. No use having all the electronics in place if they just die out on you when you need them the most!

Okay so I know that there are always cafes where you can kick back, relax and charge your phone (assuming youโ€™ve carried your charger!). I however highly recommend taking a portable charger around.

If you are anything like me, you will probably have a packed day. Which means you will use your phone for photographs, navigation and so much more. You just canโ€™t afford to have it die out on you. 

I charge my phone up at night and then carry a portable charger along. I just attach the two together when Iโ€™m on the move which ensures that I always have a full battery. I donโ€™t know about you but I really hate searching for a cafรฉ or restaurant with a port. This works best for me.

13. First Aid Kit

โญ๏ธ Rating: 4.8/5 (12,320 Reviews) Price: $50.99 Details: Read more on Amazon!

Safety first! You know how mom and dad INSIST that you buy travel insurance, even though you never actually use it? Well a travel first aid kit is kind of the same thing. Sure, it wonโ€™t get you a date on a Friday night, but itโ€™s helpful when youโ€™reโ€ฆ trapped down a well (whereโ€™s Lassie)!

Kidding! Itโ€™s much more likely that youโ€™ll get a blister and need a band-aid. So not usually end of the world stuff but a travel first aid kit is one of those things that you should always pack because even though you probably wonโ€™t use it, if you need it and donโ€™t have it, youโ€™ll regret it.

โ€œCompact light weight has whatโ€™s neededโ€

Michael (read more reviews now!)

Like big time. So check out this super nifty and super compact first aid kit. I love it and use it on all my trips. Not only is this bag SUPER strong (itโ€™s made with 600D polyester but that actually means nothing to me):

But it comes with stainless steel scissors that can cut through seatbelts (obviously if youโ€™re traveling carry on only, leave the scissors at home). Plus it comes with over a hundred essential medical items, weighs only a pound, and is waterproof.

Yup, this is some straight up MacGyver shiz. Plus, all the medical tools inside are FDA approved and organized, with labels, according to their function.

So a total travel must-have for an anxiety-ridden traveler like me who constantly thinks sheโ€™s gonna get struck down with a case of Ebola. Kiddingโ€ฆsort of. I mean, I saw Outbreak. I know what happens!

14. Passport Holder and Travel Document Organizer

โญ๏ธ Rating: 4.5/5 (2,263 Reviews) Price: $20 Details: Read more on Amazon!

OMG! Cutest Passport Holder Ever Right? I mean, it doesnโ€™t even look like a passport and document holder. It just looks like a super awesome and super cute little clutch that you can bring with you for a hot night out on the town.

โ€œI ordered this for a trip to Europe. Held my credit cards, 2 passports, pen, cash and even my iPhone 14 with room to spare. Very well made and a nice, slim size. Not bulky at all. I love it! I bought the Rose Gold. I carried it in my backpack during the day and while on the plane โ€“ but at night I would use it as a clutch purse. I would give it 10 stars if I could!โ€

Michelle (read more reviews now!)

Yup an awesome clutch that just happens to hold your phone and have RFID blocking capabilities (Superhero much? LoL) It also comes in a variety of colors, has a removable strap, and costs less than $20.

Talk About Winning at Travel Life London. 

15. Reusable Water bottle

โญ๏ธ Rating: 4.5/5 (1,175 Reviews) Price: $20.99 Details: Read more on Amazon!

I always always advise people to pack a reusable water bottle when traveling to London. Especially during the hotter months. The reason is really twofold.

One is that the water in the city is portable. This means, if you have a reusable water bottle with you, you wonโ€™t spend on bottled water which quite frankly can get expensive.

โ€œIt keeps drinks nice and cold even while out in very hot temps for a long period of time.โ€

Ashley (read more reviews now!)

Plus, the waste generated by the plastic bottles being discarded alone should be reason enough! And you know what how weird London can get when things get hot!

The flipside is that you really should keep hydrating yourself when outdoors. London has experienced heatwaves and carrying a water bottle alongside you could just save you from a heat stroke!

Oh and if you are still worried about the water potability, I would suggest trying the lifestraw which filters the water before you drink it!

16. Packing Cubes

โญ๏ธ Rating: 4.6/5 (9,472 Reviews) Price: $30.99 Details: Read more on Amazon!

Back in the day I never really used packing cubes. I just thought they were for obsessive-compulsive weirdos who had nothing better to do than obsess about their upcoming trip to London.

Until I tried them and Realized that I could Never Again Live Without Them! Not only do packing cubes help organize your carry on, so that you can easily and efficiently find everything you need, but they give you more space by compressing your London travel essentials into a smaller size, allowing you to pack more.

โ€œWe bought four sets of these for a vacation. Unpacking in the hotel/cruise ship was never so easy. Pulled the color coded boxes out and finding everything was a snap, felt like Mary Poppins putting toys away.โ€

Ashley (read more reviews now!)

Hands down the packing cubes above are probably some of my favorites. They have a mesh top that makes it easy to find what youโ€™re looking for, they come in several different sizes that help you pack anything and everything you need, and they are also extremely durable, so no need to worry about inconvenient rips, tears, or broken zippers (they also come in a variety of colors that you can match to your luggage).

One of Those London Packing Essentials I Canโ€™t Leave Home Without. 

17. Toiletries (and toiletry bag)

Typically, I don't make a big deal about travel toiletry bags, but this one is pretty epic. Not only does it have a durable hanger, but it has a sturdy zipper, a breathable mesh pouch, a strong handle, and, oh yeah, it can hold basically every toiletry imaginable.

 

Typically, I donโ€™t make a big deal about travel toiletry bags, but this one is pretty epic. Not only does it have a durable hanger, but it has a sturdy zipper, a breathable mesh pouch, a strong handle, and, oh yeah, it can hold basically every toiletry imaginable.

โญ๏ธ Rating: 4.6/5 (457 Reviews) Price: $15.99 Details: Read more on Amazon!

This one is Homer Simpson โ€œdohโ€ level obvious but I put it on here because well, clearly youโ€™ll need your toiletries when packing for London.

But truthfully youโ€™ll want to pack the same essentials that you would bring on any other trip around the globe.

You know things like a brush, shampoo, conditioner, body wash, toothbrush, toothpaste, floss, deodarant, moisturiser, contact lens solution (if you wear contacts), medication, and any makeup or sanitary products that you can dream up.

โ€œAbsolutely love this bag! I have been using it during my several weeks of traveling the past couple of months. Has a small pocket on top that I use for face packs, nose strips and emergency female toiletries. Three pockets that I use for travel sized lotions/toothbrush/foundation. Finally, a large front pocket that can pretty much carry everything else you need from my electric toothbrush to the rest of my makeup. Could not have survived traveling without this! Also hangs very nicely in almost every hotel bathroom (some hotels dont have convenience places to hang it). Would definitely buy again and recommend for any traveling you do.โ€

Erika (read more reviews now!)

Clearly if you forget any of these items, donโ€™t have a Mount Vesuvius caliber meltdown because you can get all of these things in London. Unless of course, you have some crazy level of brand loyalty that makes you incapable of using any other type of product.

But take a deep breath because even if you forget your deodorant, the world will keep spinning and everything will be just fine.

Pro Tip: PS: Just a friendly Girl with the Passport reminder to pack your sunscreen in the summer and your chapstick in the winter so that your lips donโ€™t quickly resemble sandpaper.

18. Umbrella

โญ๏ธ Rating: 4.4/5 (27,076 Reviews) Price: $11.99 Details: Read more on Amazon!

No Londoner in their right mind would step out without a raincoat or an umbrella. I mean the weather is so unpredictable but on an average if you were to hazard a guess, you wouldnโ€™t be wrong to say that the weather is wet.

So if you are headed to the city, make sure that you carry an umbrella. Luckily for us, carrying an umbrella is no longer an inconvenience. You donโ€™t have to lug around a heavy one that keeps getting trapped everywhere. The light umbrellas that are manufactured today fold down pretty small and you can easily tuck it into your bag.

โ€œI love the cheery color and ease of use of this umbrella. It folds down small enough that it fits in the pocket on the side of my Subaru door. This keeps it handy for when it rains. I used to have to dig my umbrella out of the back of the car, getting wet in the meantime! Iโ€™m very happy with this purchase.โ€

Debra (read more reviews now!)

When buying an umbrella you would want to consider one of the windproof ones too. London can be so windy that it can turn your umbrella inside out. Trust me! Iโ€™ve seen it happen to the unsuspecting tourists who visit.

So save yourself the uncomfortable encounter with the rain and buy a windproof umbrella!

19. A Hat

โญ๏ธ Rating: 4.7/5 (2,151 Reviews) Price: $9.73 Details: Read more on Amazon!

A hat is beyond doubt one of the best accessories that you can take when you head to London. Not only does it give you an uber cool look, it is also very functional in pretty much every season. You do have to pick out a different hat depending on the season you are visiting.

In summer, you would want something with a wide brim that will keep the sun off your face. It is a great way to beat the heat while roaming the city.

โ€œLove this style hat and how warm it is. Color is true to photo.โ€

Rachel (read more reviews now!)

On the other hand during winter you will need a thicker and warmer hat. Most people prefer a nice woolen beanie. The trick is to pair the color of the beanie with your jacket. Though to be honest, Londoners tend to have more than one.

I bought this Adidas beanie awhile back and have been uber happy with it. It has a large and loose knit. This makes it perfect for both men and women even though it says that it is a womenโ€™s beanie. A big bonus is that it comes in a variety of different colors.

London Packing List Winter

(Temperatures are milder throughout winter in London than in many other parts of the world. Therefore, between December and February, expect temperatures from 40ยฐF to 50ยฐF. Rain is also common so warm waterproof clothing is a must.)

  • Warn Jacket
  • Opt for Sweater Dresses with leggings
  • Pack a Chunky Knit Sweater
  • Waterproof booties
  • Thermals for layering
  • Pack Extra socks to keep your feet warm
  • Wool lined leggings
  • warm hat, gloves, and scarf
  • Chapstick

London Packing List Spring

(Spring in London is between March and April, with temperatures that are between 45ยฐF to 60ยฐF. There are not too many tourists so itโ€™s a great time to explore London. However, the weather can vary wildly during a single day, so pack for almost any type of weather.)

London Packing List Summer

(Summer in London lasts from June through August, with temperatures between 60ยฐF to 75ยฐF. It can rain but summers are mild and a great time to be outside with all the other tourists that take over London at this time of year.)

London Packing List Fall

(Fall is from September through November in London, with temperatures that range between 55ยฐF and 65ยฐF. And while there are fewer tourists at this time of year, this is also the rainiest season in London so pack accordingly.)

Download your free London Packing List!

There you have it, my not so little packing list for London!

So, If youโ€™re planning a trip to London, then this checklist for traveling to London will help you understand how to create a fantastic, London travel outfit for any season.

And if you enjoyed this guide on what to pack for London, then pin this now and read it again later!

22 thoughts on “The Perfect London Packing List – 19 Things You Should Carry”

  1. I really loved reading your blog. It was very well authored and easy to understand. Thank you for sharing .

  2. Hi Kelly!
    I’m from Mexico, I’m traveling to London this Christmas. Here in Mexico we celebrate Christmas eve with family but with friends too so at night you can go to dance or you can go to party. I want to know if you know a place in London to do that since I’m traveling with my best friends.
    Regards!

    • Thank you for reading my article and have an AMAZING time in London. I was there for Christmas last year and had a blast! In terms of dancing/partying, you can try Dolce London, Aquum, Floripa, Big Chill Brick lane, Shaka Zulu, and Dirty Martini Islington. Just double-check the hours and make sure they will be open since basically, everything in London shuts down for Christmas! Have fun!

  3. This came in really handy. Glad i came across this. Am a first timer to London from Nigeria so you know why i need to give you a hug right now. But in between, do you have a list for kids. Will be going to Blackpool with my son for Christmas.

  4. Thank you for the great tips, Kelly.

    For anyone who is traveling from the USA. Kelly already mentioned the fact that your electronics need to be Dual voltage. Basically, you should look at the electronic device and look for the voltage in small letters. If it says something like 110-240v, you’re good to go. If your device doesn’t support 220v, you will ruin your devices.

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