Your Perfect London Trip Packing List: 33 Items You’ll Need for Your Trip

London is a fabulous and accessible city to visit. I enjoy it each time I return as there are always new things to do and see. In this post, I’ve compiled the perfect London trip packing list to help make sure you don’t forget anything that would spoil your trip.

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London Trip Packing List

From suggested luggage, clothing, technology, and other travel essentials, this comprehensive packing list will help to ensure you have everything you need for your London trip. In fact, it is the list I personally use whenever I visit the city.

What Type of Luggage to Bring

1. Rolling Suitcase or Travel Backpack

2. Day Pack

Travel Essentials

3. Travel Insurance

I won’t travel anywhere abroad without getting travel insurance first. While my health has been fairly stable, you never know when things will change and emergency health situations are often unexpected.

Insure My Trip is an aggregator I use to compare policies and prices to find the right one for my next trip. I love that they have a filter that allows you to search for policies that include pre-existing conditions. Just make sure you purchase your travel insurance within 7-14 days of the first payment for your trip!

☑️ Compare policies and prices for travel insurance by clicking here.

4. Passport

Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned date of departure from London. And by all means, don’t forget to pack it in your purse or carry-on! Accidentally packing it in your checked bag can lead to disaster and you won’t be allowed to board the plane.

5. VISA

The need for a VISA will obviously depend on what country you are from. Please check current regulations for more guidance. This includes new information about ETIAS requirements for Americans and others traveling to the UK and Europe.

6. Outlet Adapter

7. Converter

An outlet adapter and a converter are two separate things. If you are from the US, we use a 110-voltage electrical system. However, in the UK and Europe, their system is 220-240.

Make sure to check your electrical device to see if it has dual voltage capabilities. If it doesn’t, you will need to purchase a converter to take with you on your trip so you don’t blow out your device.

If you use a powered wheelchair or respiratory equipment, this is especially important. Check with your homecare company or wheelchair manufacturer to see if there is a specific converter they recommend for your device.

8. Wallet

I know this one seems obvious, but I do know people who have forgotten to bring their wallets while on a trip. Additionally, make sure that your wallet has your driver’s license, credit cards, some cash, and other essentials in it before you leave.

9. No Foreign Transaction Fee Credit Card

When traveling abroad, it’s always important to check to see that your credit card has no foreign transaction fees as otherwise, it will lead to additional fees and expenses whenever you use your credit card abroad.

I personally really like my Chase Saphire Preferred card and my Captial One Venture X card to use for both my travel and everyday purchases. They both allow me to earn points which I can then redeem for airfare or hotel stays. Getting business class seats for only $11 on my long flight to Africa was just one of the perks I’ve enjoyed.

Toiletries

10. Travel-Sized Toiletries

11. Sunscreen

12. Lip Balm/Moisturizer

Travel has a way of drying out your skin and your lips. Make sure to keep both hydrated by bringing lip balm and lotion. They are small and easy to toss into your day bag or purse for easy access.

13. Hand Sanitizer

Let’s face it, travel can be dirty. Having a small bottle of hand sanitizer can often come in handy. Furthermore, using it regularly can help prevent you from getting any colds or bugs that could impact and potentially ruin your trip.

Clothing to Pack for Your London Trip

14. Comfortable Shoes

15. Raincoat/Poncho

As a wheelchair user, I opt for a rain poncho designed not to get caught in the wheels of my chair. However, not everyone finds them stylish or attractive.

Instead, you could use a raincoat or waterproof trench coat during your trip. No matter what you choose, however, you should bring some sort of rain protection as showers in London are common.

16. Coat

17. Sweater

Having a sweater on hand provides a versatile layering option to help you stay warm and comfortable throughout your visit. Whether you’re exploring outdoor attractions, taking a leisurely stroll along the Thames, or dining at a quaint cafe, a sweater offers protection against chilly winds and sudden drops in temperature that can be common in London.

18. Shirts

Plan to pack a selection of lightweight, breathable tops such as t-shirts and blouses, which are ideal for warmer days and indoor attractions. Additionally, include a few long-sleeve shirts to layer over your tops for cooler evenings or if the weather turns unexpectedly chilly.

19. Pants/Jeans

20. Skirt

A skirt is a fantastic option if you’re visiting London in summer or just want a little bit of an elevated look for dinner or afternoon tea. Longer skirts can also be worn in spring or fall for a comfortable outfit.

21. Nice Dress or Slacks and a Nice Shirt

London is a cosmopolitan city known for its vibrant nightlife, upscale dining establishments, and cultural events. Having a stylish outfit on hand allows you to fully immerse yourself in the city’s diverse entertainment scene, whether you’re attending a West End theater production, dining at a Michelin-starred restaurant, or enjoying a night out in one of London’s trendy neighborhoods.

22. Scarf or Pashmina

I have a tendency to get chilly or cold easily so I love traveling with a fashionable and colorful scarf. Not only does it help me dress up an outfit, but it also helps to ward off the chill in the air and keeps me a little warmer.

You’ll love how a scarf can change the look of an outfit and add a touch of sophistication to your look. It also comes in handy during spring and fall when temperatures can be cooler.

23. Watch

If you’re like me, the only time I take my watch off is when I shower. But, it’s still an item that can easily be overlooked or left behind on a trip. Somehow I managed to do this on one of the days of my trip and I was lost without it.

Don’t be like me, and make sure you have your watch with you when you travel.

Best Technology to Bring

24. Phone

You are going to want your phone for taking pictures, videos, looking up restaurants, and so much more on your trip. Don’t forget to put it in your purse or bag, but also don’t forget to bring your charging cord.

25. Portable Power Bank/Charger

26. Camera

27. eSim Card

It is true that many cell phone providers offer plans for international travel when you’ll be roaming, but the costs can add up quickly. A more affordable option would be to use an eSim card.

An eSIM card provides the convenience of having a local data plan without the need to swap out physical SIM cards, saving time and hassle. To obtain an eSIM card for use in London, travelers can often purchase one online or visit a local mobile provider store upon arrival. Activating an eSIM typically involves scanning a QR code or entering a provided activation code through your device’s settings.

Additionally, eSIM cards provide the flexibility to choose from a variety of data plans based on your specific needs and duration of stay, whether it’s a short-term plan for a week or a longer-term plan for the duration of your trip.

28. Tablet/E-Reader

Other Useful Items

29. Reusable Water Bottle

30. Travel Umbrella

31. First Aid Kit

32. Map/Guidebook

While it’s true that phones have Google Maps and other apps that help with navigation, solely relying on them can be a mistake (and using them can drain your battery faster). I always recommend having a good paper map to help you find your way around the city.

Not only will it help save your phone battery, but it also often contains other important information such as bus routes, tube station locations, and more that can make it easier to look at a glance and find the best way to your next destination.

33. Medications

Obviously, bring any prescribed medications with you (in your carry-on). But also bring some of your common over-the-counter meds that may make your trip easier. Things like pain relievers, antacids, benedryl, and Immodium are all common ones that can be handy if you run into the need for them.

34. (Bonus) Sink Suds

What to Pack for London in Winter

London in the winter can be cold, damp, and dark due to the shorter days. During this time temperatures can range from around 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F). Although temperatures can occasionally drop below freezing, especially during colder spells, resulting in frost or even snowfall, significant snow accumulation is relatively rare.

Rainfall is common throughout the year in London, and winter is no exception. Expect frequent drizzle and light rain showers, particularly in December and January.

As a result of these typical weather patterns, here is my recommended London winter packing list:

• Warm Outerwear
  Bring a heavy coat or parka to protect against cold winds and potential rain or snow. Look for options with insulation like down or synthetic materials for maximum warmth.
  
• Layered Clothing
  Pack sweaters, long-sleeve shirts, and thermal undergarments to layer beneath your outerwear. This allows you to adjust your clothing based on fluctuating indoor and outdoor temperatures.
  
• Scarf, Gloves, and Hat
  These are essential accessories for staying warm in chilly weather. Opt for a scarf made of wool or cashmere, insulated gloves, and a beanie or thermal hat to retain heat. For wheelchair users, I also recommend a wheelchair cozy.
  
• Waterproof Boots
  Invest in sturdy, waterproof boots with good traction to navigate wet and potentially icy streets. Look for styles lined with fleece or shearling for added warmth.
  
• Warm Socks
  Pack several pairs of thick, moisture-wicking socks to keep your feet dry and insulated in cold weather.
  
• Comfortable Pants
  Choose trousers or jeans made from thicker materials like denim or wool blends to provide warmth and protection against the cold.
  
• Umbrella
  London is known for its drizzly weather, so a compact, windproof umbrella is a must-have to stay dry during your explorations.

Packing List for London in Summer

Start with a selection of lightweight tops such as t-shirts, blouses, and tank tops in breathable fabrics like cotton or linen. Pair these with comfortable bottoms such as shorts, skirts, or lightweight trousers for versatile and weather-appropriate outfits. Don’t forget to pack a few dresses, which are effortlessly chic and ideal for hot summer days.

Additionally, bring along a light sweater or jacket for cooler evenings or unexpected temperature drops. Sun protection is also crucial, so remember to pack sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat to shield yourself from the sun’s rays. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for exploring London’s sights, so opt for breathable sneakers or sandals with good arch support.

Finally, don’t forget to bring a compact umbrella or rain jacket, as summer showers are not uncommon in London.

London Trip Packing List for Spring/Fall

During Spring and Fall, it’s important to pack for the transitional weather that characterizes these seasons in the city. Start with a selection of versatile clothing pieces that can be layered to accommodate fluctuating temperatures.

Pack a variety of tops such as long-sleeve shirts, lightweight sweaters, and blouses, along with a couple of jackets or cardigans for added warmth. Pair these with trousers, jeans, or skirts made from medium-weight fabrics to keep you comfortable in the changing weather.

Don’t forget to include a waterproof jacket or trench coat to shield yourself from London’s occasional rain showers. Accessories such as scarves, hats, and gloves can also help keep you warm during chillier days.

London Trip Packing Tips

Now that you have your packing list all sorted, let’s talk about some packing tips I recommend to everyone. These are all tips I personally use during all my travels and suggest you do too.

➡️ Use Packing Cubes

There is nothing worse than digging through your suitcase trying to find something. That’s why I love how packing cubes help to keep me organized. The ones I use also have a clear window so you can see what’s inside.

As an added bonus, when I’m staying in one location for more than a day or two, I can just take the cubes out of my suitcase and put them in a drawer for easy access to everything I need. It makes unpacking a breeze!

☑️ Check prices and availability when you order your packing cubes by clicking here!

➡️ Roll Your Clothes

Once I learned that rolling your clothes can help save room in your suitcase while preventing wrinkles, I’ve never gone back to traditional folding. I use this method in combination with the packing cubes for easy organization and to save space.

Additionally, I also find that the clothes shift less and stay in place better. This way everything is right where I left them. It’s wonderful not to have to worry about unpacking to find all my clothes have wrinkled and look like they need to be laundered.

➡️ Pack a Capsule Wardrobe

A capsule wardrobe is a carefully curated collection of versatile clothing items that can be mixed and matched to create various outfits. It typically consists of essential pieces such as tops, bottoms, outerwear, and shoes, all chosen for their ability to coordinate with one another.

By packing versatile pieces that can be dressed up or down, you can adapt to different climates, cultural norms, and travel experiences with ease while saving space in your suitcase. For example, by packing 2-3 pairs of pants or bottoms, 4-5 tops, and a jacket you can create several outfit combinations for a week-long trip.

➡️ Use Accessories to Change Up Your Look

Incorporating accessories such as scarves, belts, jewelry, hats, and bags into your wardrobe, can effortlessly transform basic outfits into stylish ensembles suitable for various occasions. I love traveling with versatile scarves, and some costume jewelry to change the look of basic pieces of clothing that I can easily mix and match.

Another benefit is that accessories take up minimal space in your luggage compared to bulkier clothing items, making them ideal for maximizing outfit options without exceeding baggage allowances or overpacking.

By mixing and matching accessories with a few key clothing pieces, you can create a wide range of outfits while keeping your suitcase compact and organized. As a result, your wardrobe is stylish, and functional and doesn’t have to take up a lot of space.

➡️ Pack Medication in Your Carry-On

There are two important reasons for keeping your medication with you in your carry-on baggage. Firstly, having essential medication readily accessible in your carry-on ensures that you have immediate access to it in case of delays, lost luggage, or unexpected emergencies during your journey. Knowing where your medication is at all times will definitely lead to a less stressful trip.

Second, placing medication in your carry-on also allows you to maintain proper temperature control, especially for medications that require refrigeration or are sensitive to extreme temperatures. The cargo hold area of the plane is not like the airplane cabin and is not temperature regulated so it’s better to keep your meds with you for proper storage.

London Packing FAQs

What Should I Pack for 5 Days in London?

By packing a mix of tops, bottoms, and other essential items, you’ll have everything you need for a comfortable and stylish 5-day stay in London without overpacking or feeling weighed down by your luggage.

Here’s what I recommend:

• 4-5 Tops
  Choose items that can be mixed and matched throughout your trip. Include a combination of long-sleeve shirts, sweaters, and blouses in neutral colors or classic patterns like stripes or plaid. This allows for flexibility in layering and adapting to changing weather conditions.
  
• 2-3 pairs of trousers or jeans
  Choose styles made from comfortable, wrinkle-resistant fabrics like denim or cotton twill. Consider including one dressier option, such as tailored trousers or dark jeans, for evenings out or more formal occasions.
  
• 6 Pairs of Underwear
  
• 6 Pairs of Socks
  
• 2 Pairs of Pajamas
  
• 1 Pair of Comfortable Shoes
  
• Dress Shoes if Going Out
  
• Accessories/Scarf
  These enhance your outfits and add variety to your wardrobe.
  
• Coat/Jacket

What Should I Wear for Sightseeing in London?

When sightseeing in London, it’s essential to prioritize comfort and practicality. Opt for clothing that is lightweight, breathable, and suitable for walking long distances. Also, consider wearing layers for London’s ever-changing weather.

Is There a Dress Code in London?

While there isn’t a strict dress code in London, it’s advisable to dress neatly and appropriately for the occasion. Londoners often dress stylishly yet comfortably, favoring well-fitted clothing and classic styles. In more formal settings such as fine dining restaurants, theaters, or upscale events, dressing up is a bit more customary.

What are the Best Shoes to Wear in London?

Everyone’s feet have different needs, however, in general, choose sturdy walking shoes such as sneakers, trainers, or lightweight hiking shoes with good traction, cushioning, and support for long days of exploring London’s streets, parks, and attractions. Waterproof or water-resistant options are ideal for protecting your feet from rain and puddles, especially during the city’s frequent drizzles.

I loved wearing Mary Janes as the type I wear had good cushioning and they went with almost any outfit. The downside is they don’t help in cooler weather or the rain.

What Should I Wear to the Theater in London?

While there isn’t a strict dress code, dressing slightly more formal than casual demonstrates respect for the theater and the performers.

For men, this often means wearing tailored trousers paired with a button-down shirt or a polo shirt, complemented by a blazer or sports jacket. To complete the look, polished dress shoes or loafers add a touch of refinement.

Similarly, women often choose to wear a stylish dress or a blouse paired with trousers or a skirt, accompanied by dress shoes or elegant flats. Accessories such as jewelry, scarves, or a clutch purse can enhance the overall ensemble to make it more sophisticated.

Where to Stay in London

London is a large city with many lovely neighborhoods and areas to stay. If you are a first-time visitor to the city, I recommend staying near the attractions you’d like to visit.

However, if you are traveling on a budget, staying in some of the nearby neighborhoods like Brixton, Shoreditch, or Camden can be more affordable. These locations are connected by public transportation so the London city center is still easily accessed.

Wheelchair accessible hotels in London can also be found for people with mobility problems allowing them to enjoy the city.

Holiday Inn London – Kensington High St., an IHG Hotel

Located a short walk from Kensington Palace and Hyde Park, the Holiday Inn London is a wonderful option for people looking for a clean room that is close to public transportation. Breakfast is available daily on-site to help you fuel up for a day of exploring.

Accessible rooms with roll-in showers, shower seats, and plenty of grab bars are available. While the main entrance does have stairs, there is an alternative accessible entrance available. Standard rooms are also available.

☑️ Check prices and availability for your travel dates by clicking here.

Premier Inn London Waterloo (Westminster Bridge) Hotel

Premier Inn is a UK hotel chain company that is known for its budget-friendly rates, good service, and accessible facilities. This particular hotel is in a fantastic location close to the major sights in London.

Accessible rooms have roll-in showers, grab bars near the toilet, and room for maneuvering in your wheelchair. Regular non-accessible rooms are also available if you don’t have mobility problems.

☑️ Check availability for your travel dates by clicking here.

When to Visit London

London offers something special year-round, however, there are definitely some worst times to visit London if you want to avoid the crowds, are on a budget, or just want nice weather. As a result, I recommend visiting London during the shoulder season.

The months of April, May, September, and October offer decent weather, fewer crowds, and can be more budget-friendly than the peak summer months. However, if you can only travel during summer London is still worth visiting. Just set realistic expectations for your experience.

How Long to Visit

For first-time visitors, I recommend spending at least 4 days in London to see the main sights. Although, if you would like to use the city as a base for day trips, then 5 days in London should be a minimum.

However, if you live nearby and have traveled to London before, then 2 days in London can make for a nice short break. I know I often only have a day in London before boarding a cruise and enjoy my short visits. And, with so many cruise ships leaving from Southampton, it gives me a fantastic excuse to keep returning to London.

London Travel Tips

Now that we’ve covered what to pack for London and answered your fashion questions, let’s talk about some important London travel tips that will help ensure a successful trip.

👉🏻 Plan Your Day with Attractions Close to Each Other

As I mentioned before, London is a big city. To make the most of your time, plan your days to include attractions that are close to each other. This will cut down on travel time and give you more time to explore.

Must-See Sights in London

While there are so many options for things to do in London, here are my must-see sights.

• Buckingham Palace
• Changing of the Guard
• Westminster Abbey
• London Eye
• Tower of London
• St. Paul’s Cathedral
• Big Ben/Elizabeth Tower
• Kensington Palace
• Hampton Court Palace

👉🏻 London Can Be a Great Base for Day Trips

London is close to some other very popular places in England. As a result, you can easily drive or take the train to reach new destinations on a day trip. Some of the most popular day trips from London include Stonehenge, Salsbury, Bath, Oxford, Windsor Castle, and a Harry Potter Experience/Tour.

👉🏻 Factor in Travel Time

When you look at a map, things may seem fairly close together, however, travel time can take longer than expected due to crowds, waiting on public transport, traffic, and more. When you have a tour booked or want to be someplace at a certain time, make sure you leave plenty of time to get there. It will help decrease stress and make your trip more enjoyable.

👉🏻 Book Tickets in Advance

Don’t waste time waiting in lines. Book your entrance and tour tickets for popular attractions in advance. This is especially important if you plan to travel during peak season (June-August).

Viator is a great resource for finding skip-the-line tickets and tours that will help you make the most of your time.

☑️ Look for tickets and tours on Viator for your trip dates by clicking here.

👉🏻 Get an Oyster Card for Public Transportation

There is no cash option on many of London’s public transport methods. As a result, you’ll need to get an Oyster Card that allows you to pay for these services. This is a smart card that is preloaded to make for convenient payments on things such as buses, Tubes, trams, DLR, London Overground, Elizabeth Line, River Bus, and most National Rail services in London.

It’s quick and easy to order online so you have it before your trip. It’s also budget-friendly as it is cheaper to use than paying for a single trip tickets. Order yours by clicking here.

Recap on for Your London Trip Packing List

Now that you have your London trip packing list as well as some other helpful bonus information, you are all set for your trip to London! I hope that you fall in love with the city like I have and enjoy a wonderful trip.