What to Pack for London in December: Rainy, Stylish, and Cozy

London in December is chilly, festive, and famously rainy. Holiday lights glow across the city, Christmas markets pop up in every borough, and pub culture hits its coziest peak. But with all that beauty comes damp, drizzly weather — so pack smart!

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You’ll need waterproof outerwear, warm layers, and comfortable shoes that can survive both fashion and puddles. Think practical chic with a dash of festive flair.

📝 Note: This article is all about what to pack for London in December. Here you can find a huge and comprehensive list. Feel free to adapt to your needs, and share your tips in the comments!

Weather & Travel Context 🌦️

• Average highs: 8°C / 46°F
• Average lows: 3°C / 37°F
• Frequent light rain or drizzle
• Rare snow, possible frost
• Sunset around 4 PM

What to Pack for London in December

🧳 Luggage & Packing Tools

• Carry-on suitcase – 🧳 Water-resistant and easy-roll.
• Daypack – 🎒 Essential for museum days or markets.
• Packing cubes – 📦 Stay organized by outfit type.
• Shoe bag – 👟 Keep wet shoes separate.
• Toiletry kit – 🪥 Waterproof lining preferred.
• Document folder – 📁 Travel passes, Oyster card, ID.
• Neck pillow – ✈️ For the long haul in/out of Heathrow.
• Umbrella – ☔ Compact, wind-resistant is a must.

👗 Clothes

• Raincoat or trench – 🧥 Stylish and functional.
• Thermal tops – ❄️ Layer under sweaters and shirts.
• Knit sweaters (2–3) – 🧶 Perfect for warmth and style.
• Long-sleeve tops (3–4) – 👕 Day-to-night versatility.
• Jeans or trousers (2–3) – 👖 Waterproof or quick-dry fabrics ideal.
• Dresses/skirts with tights – 👗 For tea rooms or theatre nights.
• Scarf – 🧣 Adds warmth and a style boost.
• Wool socks – 🧦 For wet, cold pavements.
• Warm pajamas – 💤 Central heating isn’t always great.
• Undergarments (7+) – 👙 Quick-dry fabrics preferred.
• Wool gloves – 🧤 Especially for night walks.
• Beanie or beret – 🧢 Iconic and warm.

💆 Skincare

• Gentle cleanser – 🧼 Protect from cold wind.
• Moisturizer – 🧴 Rich and hydrating formula.
• Lip balm – 💋 Must-have in windy weather.
• SPF – 🌥️ Still needed even in cloudy London.
• Eye cream – 👁️ Keep skin hydrated in low humidity.

💄 Makeup

• Foundation or BB Cream – 🧴 With moisturizer built-in.
• Concealer – 🔍 For those jet-lag mornings.
• Blush – 🌸 Adds glow to grey days.
• Bold lipstick – 💄 Red or berry tones look festive.
• Waterproof mascara – 💧 Rainproof beauty essential.

💇 Hair Care

• Brush/comb – 💇 Anti-static is best.
• Dry shampoo – 🌬️ Extends blowouts on rainy days.
• Shampoo/conditioner – 🧴 Bring your own if picky.
• Hair ties – 🌀 Windy day saviors.
• Mini straightener – 🔌 Great for taming frizz.

👟 Shoes & Accessories

• Waterproof boots – 👢 Stylish and practical.
• Sneakers – 👟 For dry museum or market days.
• Dressy shoes – 👠 Optional for nice dinners.
• Crossbody purse – 👜 Keep valuables close and dry.
• Umbrella – ☔ Yes, it’s worth repeating.
• Sunglasses – 🕶️ For rare sunny days.

📑 Documents & Essentials

• Passport – 🛂 Required at immigration.
• Travel insurance – 🏥 Always recommended.
• Oyster card or contactless credit card – 🚇 London transit essential.
• Printout of bookings – 📄 Just in case Wi-Fi fails.
• Cash + cards – 💷 Some spots prefer cash.

🚑 First Aid

• Band-aids – 🩹 For wet-day blisters.
• Painkillers – 💊 Headaches or long walks relief.
• Cold/flu medicine – 🤧 London in winter…
• Hand sanitizer – 🧴 Tube-safe hygiene must.

🧼 Health & Hygiene

• Toothbrush + paste – 🪥 Compact and covered.
• Deodorant – 🌸 Solid or spray.
• Tissues – 🤧 Always in your coat pocket.
• Razor – 🪒 Travel-size, if needed.
• Feminine products – 🩸 Your preferred brands.

📱 Tech & Electronics

• Phone + UK adapter – 📱 UK plugs are unique.
• Power bank – 🔋 All-day London exploring = battery drain.
• SIM card or eSIM – 📶 Avoid roaming fees.
• Headphones – 🎧 Podcasts while walking.

🎧 Entertainment

• Book or Kindle – 📚 For cozy tea breaks.
• Offline maps – 🗺️ Helps in Tube tunnels.
• Journal – 📓 London inspires notes.

🎁 Extras

• Reusable bottle – 💧 Many refill stations citywide.
• Snacks – 🍫 Carry in your daypack.
• Shopping bag – 🛍️ Most stores charge for bags.
• Mini detergent – 🧼 In case you rewear layers.

🌍 Travel Tips

• Use Google Maps + CityMapper – 📲 Top apps in London.
• Book attractions in advance – 🎟️ Museums, Harry Potter, West End.
• Dress in layers – 🧥 Weather changes by the hour.

🛂 Visa Tips

• UK not in Schengen – 🛂 Check entry rules.
• Print hotel and ticket confirmations – 🖨️ For immigration.

⭐ Must-Haves

• Passport – 🛂 Non-negotiable.
• Umbrella – ☔ It WILL rain.
• Waterproof shoes – 👢 Walk without worry.
• Layers – 🧥 Wind, rain, sun… all possible.

👍 Good-to-Have

• Thermal mug – ☕ Warm drinks on cold walks.
• Blanket scarf – 🧣 Travel blanket + fashion piece.
• Plug adapter – 🔌 UK uses Type G.