Amsterdam in October is beautifully moody — fall foliage, canal fog, and cozy cafés, all under skies that could go from sunny to rainy in five minutes. This Amsterdam October packing list will help you look chic, stay dry, and bike-ready no matter the weather.
Weather Overview 🌡️
Expect true autumn weather: highs of 55–60°F (13–16°C) and lows around 45°F (7°C). October in Amsterdam brings frequent light rain, wind, and chilly evenings. You’ll want layers, a rain jacket, and shoes that can handle puddles and cobblestones.
What to Pack for Amsterdam in October 🎒
Locals embrace simple, neutral-toned fashion, often with a practical twist. Think black jeans, layered knits, structured coats, and practical shoes. Amsterdam is walkable and bike-friendly — dress for mobility and drizzle.
Packing smart will help you make the most of your trip. Here’s everything you need to bring for a comfortable and stylish adventure.
Carry-On Suitcase / Travel Bag Duffle / Portable Steamer / Packing cubes / Luggage scale / Wireless Noise-Cancelling Headphones / Speaker / Portable Charger / Universal Travel adapter / Compact Hair Dryer / Eye Mask / Waterproof Toiletry Bag Hanging / Zipper Pouch / Water BOTTLE / Liquid I.V. Hydration Vegan
🧳 Luggage & Packing Tools
If you want more options to have everything organized and well packed, take a look at these suggestions.
1. Rolling Backpack / 2. Luggage (large) / 3. Luggage (small) / 4. Toiletry Bag / 5. Beach Bag / 6. Backpack / 7. Packing Cubes
- 🧳 Carry-on suitcase (1) – Compact, waterproof, and easy to roll
- 🎒 Daypack or crossbody bag (1) – Zippered and rain-resistant
- 🧼 Waterproof hanging toiletry bag (1) – Bathroom counters are often small
- 💼 Packing cubes (3–4) – Great for layering pieces
- 👞 Shoe bags (1–2) – Wet soles = mess
- 🧺 Laundry kit or bag (1) – Great for wet socks or longer stays
- 📁 Document organizer (1) – For passport, tickets, and train cards
- 🛍️ Collapsible tote (1) – Handy for bikes, groceries, or museum shops
- ⚖️ Luggage scale (1) – For your vintage market finds
- 🔒 Small lock (1) – For hostel lockers or trains
- 💧 Quick-dry towel (1) – Hostels or boat stays
- 💤 Neck pillow + sleep mask – For long-haul flights or train rides
👗 Clothes
- 👕 Long-sleeve tops (3–4) – Cotton, striped, or neutral tones
- 🧥 Sweaters / cardigans (2–3) – Perfect for layering
- 🧥 Raincoat or trench coat (1) – Must-have for this season
- 🧥 Insulated jacket or puffer vest (1) – For cold mornings and evenings
- 👖 Dark jeans (1–2 pairs) – Weatherproof and city-chic
- 👖 Trousers or wool pants (1 pair) – Dressy but warm
- 👗 Dress or skirt (1–2) – Pair with tights and boots
- 🧦 Tights or leggings (1–2 pairs) – For warmth and style
- 🧘♀️ Activewear (1 set) – For park walks or casual days
- 💤 Sleepwear (1–2) – Cozy for crisp nights
- 👙 Underwear (1 per day)
- 👙 Bras (2–3) – Include one comfy option
- 🧦 Wool or thick socks (5+ pairs) – Warm, cozy, and stylish
- 🧤 Light gloves (1 pair) – Optional, but great for bike rides
- 🧢 Knit hat or beanie (1) – For chilly canal-side strolls
- 🧣 Scarf (1–2) – Big, soft, and stylish
💆 Skincare
- 🧴 Moisturizer (face + body) – Wind and cold air are drying
- 💧 Hydrating serum – Add it to your skincare routine
- 🌞 Sunscreen (face) – Still needed on bright days
- 🧼 Makeup remover – Wipes or micellar water
- 💋 Lip balm (with SPF) – Cold + wind = chapped lips
- 💥 Spot treatment – Stress + travel breakouts
- ❄️ Facial mist or toner – Optional pick-me-up
💄 Makeup
- 💧 BB cream or hydrating foundation – For light, glowy coverage
- 🖌️ Concealer – For any tired-eye moments
- 🌸 Blush + highlighter – Brighten up gray days
- 👁️ Eyeshadow palette – Neutrals, taupes, soft browns
- 🖊️ Waterproof mascara + eyeliner – Rainproof your glam
- 💄 Lipstick or tinted balm (1–2) – Dusty rose or berry for fall
- 💦 Setting spray – Keeps makeup intact on drizzly days
💇 Hair
- 💇 Hairbrush or comb – Wind and hats = tangles
- 🌬️ Dry shampoo – Extend blowouts between rain
- 🧴 Leave-in conditioner or serum – Smooth frizz
- 🔌 Mini flat iron or curler – Optional; go natural and sleek
- 🧷 Hair ties, scrunchies, clips – For cycling and windy days
- 🎩 Wool hat or beret – Amsterdam style + warmth
👠 Shoes & Accessories
- 👢 Waterproof ankle boots (1 pair) – Stylish and functional
- 👟 Comfortable walking shoes (1 pair) – Must for all the walking
- 👠 Dressy flats or loafers (1 pair) – Optional for evenings
- 🎒 Anti-theft backpack or crossbody – Compact and rain-resistant
- 🧤 Gloves + hat (as above) – Fall accessories = stylish warmth
- ☔ Compact umbrella (1) – Don’t leave the hotel without it
- 🕶️ Sunglasses (1 pair) – For unexpected sunshine
- ⌚ Watch (optional) – For train times + exploring
🧾 Documents & Essentials
- 🛂 Passport + digital + physical copies
- 🪪 Photo ID / driver’s license
- 🛡️ Travel insurance documents
- 💳 Credit + debit cards – Tap-to-pay is standard
- 💶 Cash in euros – Especially for street vendors or cafes
- 🏨 Printed hotel + Airbnb reservations
- 📱 Offline Google Maps + Translate
- 📓 Notebook + pen – Journal or quick notes
- 🔑 House keys + wallet
🩹 First Aid
- 🩹 Blister pads + bandaids – Essential for city walking
- 💊 Pain relievers + allergy meds
- 🧴 Antibacterial wipes / hand sanitizer
- ✂️ Mini scissors + tweezers
- 🧻 Tissues – always carry a travel pack
💊 Health & Hygiene
- 💊 Prescription medications (labeled)
- 🧼 Toothbrush, paste, floss
- 🧴 Body wash, deodorant, shaving gear
- 🩸 Feminine hygiene products
- 💅 Nail kit + clippers
- 🧴 Perfume or cologne (travel-size)
📱 Tech & Electronics
- 📱 Phone + charger
- 🔌 Universal travel adapter (Type C/F for Netherlands)
- 🔋 Portable power bank – Essential for day outings
- 🎧 Noise-canceling headphones or earbuds
- 📷 Camera (optional) – Amsterdam = photo gold
- 📲 Offline Spotify, Google Maps, and language apps
🎧 Entertainment
- 📚 Book or Kindle – Perfect for canal cafés
- 🎧 Podcasts or playlists – For bike rides and tram rides
- 🎥 Downloaded shows or movies – For rainy nights
- 🃏 Travel games / journal – For cozy downtime
- 🗞️ Local magazine or city guide – Great offline inspiration
🎒 Extras
- 🍫 Snacks or protein bars – Fuel for walking tours
- 💧 Reusable water bottle – Tap water is drinkable everywhere
- 🛍️ Foldable shopping bag – For markets and thrift finds
- 🧼 Travel detergent – For handwashing in hostels or rentals
- 🧵 Mini sewing kit – Lost button? No problem
- 💤 Melatonin or sleep aid – For jet lag
- 👃 Shoe deodorizer – Wet weather + closed shoes = funk
✈️ Travel Tips
- 🚲 Bring or rent a bike — the best way to see Amsterdam
- ☔ Always carry a small umbrella or wear a hooded jacket
- 🎫 Book museums (Anne Frank House, Van Gogh) in advance
- 📱 Get an eSIM or local SIM for data-heavy travel apps
- 🚊 Buy a GVB day pass for unlimited public transport
🛂 Visa Tips
- 🇳🇱 Netherlands is in the Schengen Zone
- 🗓️ U.S./UK/Canada/Australia = 90-day visa-free access
- 📄 Have proof of accommodations + return flight
- 📸 Carry passport photos for emergencies
- 🧾 Declare high-value goods if bringing into the country
✅ Must-Haves for a Smooth Trip
- 🧥 Raincoat + layers
- 👢 Waterproof walking shoes
- 📱 Phone + charger + adapter
- 💶 Euros + cards (contactless)
- 🧣 Scarf, gloves, and hat
- ☔ Umbrella or hooded jacket
- 🧳 Day bag for on-the-go exploring
👍 Good-to-Have Items
- 📸 Waterproof phone case
- 🧺 Travel steamer or wrinkle spray
- 🌸 Scented hand lotion for chilly days
- 🧳 Tote for museum or vintage finds
- 🧤 Touchscreen gloves (for phone photos)
