Need help with a what to pack for London October packing list? This guide makes packing for unpredictable weather simple.
London in October can shift from sunshine to rain in minutes, so packing smart layers, waterproof essentials, and comfortable shoes is a must. This list highlights versatile outfits and practical items that keep you stylish and ready for anything.
This post is all about what to pack for London October packing list.
Weather Overview 🌡️
October in London is all about cozy layers and stylish umbrellas. Expect temperatures between 9°C to 16°C (48°F–61°F) with occasional rain, overcast skies, and cooler evenings. The weather can shift quickly, so layering is essential.
What to Wear in London in October 🎒
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
Londoners do autumn very well: chic trench coats, scarves, boots, and structured layering. You’ll want to be prepared for rain, wind, and walking, all while blending in with the city’s effortlessly polished street style.
🧥 Dressing Etiquette:
London fashion is understated but elevated. Think: dark neutrals, classic cuts, and smart-casual layers. No need to overdress for daytime outings, but evening theatre or fine dining may call for dressier outfits. And yes, you’ll walk—a lot—so prioritize comfortable footwear.
✅ London in October Packing List
🧳 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) Spinner wheels = lifesaver on cobblestones
🎒 Lightweight backpack or tote – (1) Day trips, museums, and parks
🧼 Waterproof hanging toiletry bag – (1) Keep it all tidy in small UK bathrooms
🧩 Packing cubes – (3–4) Perfect for keeping layers organized
🥿 Shoe bags – (2) Keep those wet boots away from clean clothes
💄 Makeup bag – (1) Your daily beauty go-tos
🧺 Laundry kit or bag – (1) For mid-trip refreshes
🔒 Small lock – (1) For lockers at museums or train stations
💺 Inflatable neck pillow – (1) For the red-eye in or train rides out
🕶️ Sleep mask – (1) For naps or early sunrises
🧻 Zipper pouch – (2) Organize travel docs & random coins
👗 Clothes
👕 T-shirts / long-sleeve tees (3–4) – Layering is key
👚 Blouses / casual tops (2–3) – Day-to-night versatility
🧥 Sweaters / knit tops (2–3) – Cozy and chic
🧥 Blazer / structured jacket (1) – British style essential
🧥 Outerwear – (1) Trench coat or waterproof jacket—non-negotiable
👖 Jeans / casual trousers (2–3) – Comfortable but elevated
👗 Dresses / midi skirts (1–2) – Pair with tights and boots
👟 Activewear (1 set) – For lounging, workouts, or hotel breakfasts
😴 Pajamas / loungewear (1–2) – Soft sets for cool nights
🧦 Socks (4–5 pairs) – Mix of cozy and thin
🧣 Scarf (1–2) – Style + warmth
🧤 Gloves (1 pair) – Lightweight or touchscreen-friendly
🩲 Underwear (1 per day) – Always
👙 Bras (2–3) – Include one seamless or bralette
🧍♀️ Tights (1–2 pairs) – For layering under skirts or dresses
💆 Skincare
🧼 Cleanser – Gently remove makeup and city grime
💧 Toner – Helps refresh your skin from windy walks
💦 Moisturizer – Hydrating for brisk fall air
🧴 Sunscreen – Yes, even when cloudy
🧽 Makeup remover – Wipes or balm
🧼 Exfoliator (optional) – Use gently once or twice
👁️ Eye cream – Early mornings + jet lag = puffy eyes
🌸 Sheet masks (1–2) – Treat yourself post-rainy walk
💋 Lip balm – Wind + cold = chapped lips
⚠️ Spot treatment – For city pollution breakouts
💄 Makeup
💄 Foundation or BB cream – Dewy but long-wear
🖌️ Concealer – For under-eye and blemishes
🌬️ Setting powder – Keeps shine in check
🌸 Blush – A warm flush always works
✨ Highlighter – Subtle for overcast days
🌞 Bronzer – Optional, but helpful
👁️ Eyeshadow palette – Neutral tones = London chic
🖊️ Eyeliner – Waterproof is best for misty weather
👁️ Mascara – Same—go waterproof
🪞 Eyebrow pencil / gel – Frame those foggy-morning eyes
💋 Lipsticks / glosses (1–2) – Berry tones feel right
🖍️ Lip liner – Optional but useful
💦 Setting spray – Locks it all in
🖌️ Brushes / sponge – Travel-size versions work
💇 Hair
🪮 Hairbrush / comb – Detangle post-drizzle
🔥 Mini flat iron / curling wand – UK plug adapter needed
💁 Dry shampoo – Stretch days between washes
🧴 Travel-size shampoo & conditioner – Hotel brands vary
💦 Heat protectant spray – For daily styling
🌺 Hair oil or serum – Prevent frizz from moisture
🧷 Hair ties & clips – Functional + cute
🎀 Hair accessories – Barrettes, pins, or a beret?
👠 Shoes & Accessories
👟 Sneakers or waterproof walking shoes – (1) Comfort first
👢 Ankle boots – (1) Stylish and rain-ready
🥿 Flats or dressy shoes – (1) For dinners or shows
👜 Crossbody day bag – (1) Anti-theft styles are smart
🕶️ Sunglasses + case – For those rare but glorious sunny days
🧢 Beanie or felt hat – Keep warm and cover windblown hair
🧣 Scarf – A chic London must
💍 Jewelry – Simple, elegant pieces
🌂 Compact umbrella – Absolutely essential
💼 Belt – To cinch trench coats or dresses
🧾 Documents & Essentials
🛂 Passport + copies – Digital backup, always
💳 Credit / debit cards – Contactless is widely used
💵 Emergency cash – GBP in small notes
🗺️ Travel itinerary – Printed & digital
📄 Hotel + event confirmations – Just in case
📝 Emergency contact list – For peace of mind
🖊️ Pen + small notebook – For notes or journaling
🔑 House keys – Don’t leave them behind
🚆 Oyster card or contactless – For London public transport
🩹 First Aid
🩹 Bandaids – Walking blisters beware
🧴 Antibiotic ointment – Tiny tube
🧼 Antiseptic wipes – For quick cleanups
🩺 Thermometer – Small digital
🦶 Blister pads – Keep exploring
✂️ Scissors (TSA-friendly) – Useful
🧽 Cotton balls / Q-tips – Always come in handy
💊 Health & Hygiene
💊 Prescription meds – In labeled containers
💊 Pain relievers – Paracetamol, ibuprofen
🌿 Allergy meds – Fall pollen or dust
🌀 Motion sickness pills – For bus or boat rides
🌸 Feminine hygiene – Brands vary in UK
🧴 Hand sanitizer – Always
🧻 Disinfecting wipes – Train trays, hotel remotes
💧 Eye drops – For windy days
🦷 Toothbrush + toothpaste – Obvious but often forgotten
🪥 Floss / mouthwash – Tiny travel tubes
🛁 Body wash / soap – Optional
🧴 Deodorant – Bring your fave
🪒 Razor + shaving cream – Travel size
🧴 Perfume / cologne – A cozy, fall scent?
🧻 Tissues – Pocket packs are smart
🪞 Travel mirror – Hotel lighting isn’t always kind
📱 Tech & Electronics
📱 Phone + charger – Bring a UK plug adapter (Type G)
🔋 Power bank – City days = dead batteries
🎧 Noise-cancelling headphones – For flights and train commutes
📷 Camera – If you want DSLR-quality pics
🔌 UK plug adapter – Type G
💻 Laptop / tablet (optional) – Many cafes are work-friendly
📚 E-reader – Great for cozy nights in
📱 Apps to download: Citymapper, Google Maps, TFL Oyster, WhatsApp
🎧 Entertainment
📖 Books / eBooks – Think: Sherlock Holmes or British classics
📺 Downloaded shows – Wi-Fi can be patchy
🎵 Music playlists – Moody fall vibes
📓 Journal – London’s an inspiring place
📰 Magazines – For flights or train rides
🃏 Card games – For rainy evenings in
🎒 Extras
🍫 Snacks – For flights or train travel
💧 Reusable water bottle – Stay hydrated on the go
🛍️ Foldable shopping bag – For groceries or cute finds at markets
🧴 Travel laundry detergent – Wash items in your hotel sink
🧷 Mini sewing kit – Wardrobe fix-it kit
📢 Safety whistle – Especially for solo travelers
🧼 Shoe deodorizer – Rain + shoes = smell
😴 Sleep aid – Melatonin for the time difference
✈️ Travel Tips
- Check UK outlet type (Type G)
- Tap your card or Oyster Card on all public transport
- Pack an umbrella you love—you’ll use it
- Layer, layer, layer—you’ll go from chilly to stuffy and back
- Be ready for both casual and smart-casual occasions
🛂 Visa Tips
- UK doesn’t require a visa for most US/EU travelers under 6 months
- Have proof of return flight and accommodation
- Passport should be valid for your entire stay
✅ Must-Haves for a Smooth Trip
- ☔ Umbrella
- 🧥 Waterproof outerwear
- 📱 Phone + UK adapter
- 👜 Day bag for outings
- 👢 Comfortable walking shoes
- 🧳 Copy of passport and documents
- 🧼 Health and hygiene kit
- 💳 Cards + cash
- 🧣 Layers: scarf, gloves, jacket
👍 Good-to-Have Items
- 🧃 Hydration packets
- 📸 Instant camera
- 🛏️ Travel blanket
- 🧼 Travel steamer
- 📶 Local SIM or eSIM
- 🛍️ Extra tote for markets
- 🧢 Stylish hat or beret
- 🎭 Tickets for West End (book early!)
