Looking for what to pack San Francisco November Packing List? Here’s your ultimate checklist.
San Francisco in November has cool, breezy days with chilly evenings. The city’s microclimates make layering essential.
Bring sweaters, a medium jacket, and comfortable shoes for walking the hills. A scarf or hat can help when the wind picks up.
This San Francisco November Packing List keeps you prepared for all kinds of weather shifts.
🌡️ Weather Overview: What to Expect in San Francisco in November
November in SF is cool and crisp with occasional rain. Daytime temps hover around 58°F (14°C), dropping to 50°F (10°C) at night. You’ll deal with fog, breezy hills, and microclimates, so layering is key. It’s rarely freezing, but almost never warm — always bring a jacket!
🎒 What to Wear in San Francisco in November (with Dressing Etiquette)
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
San Franciscans love functional fashion: think neutral layers, denim, sneakers, and waterproof jackets. Style leans casual-chic, but polished. Pack for comfort with the ability to dress up if needed. Always bring a light jacket or coat — even on sunny mornings. Locals are known for layering like pros.
🧳 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 or weekend bag – Hilly sidewalks = lighter is better.
- 🎒 Daypack or crossbody – For sightseeing in varied weather zones.
- 🧼 Packing cubes – Ideal for mixing & matching layers.
- 👜 Toiletry bag – Waterproof is a plus.
- 🔒 Lock – Handy for hostels or shared Airbnb lockers.
- 🧺 Laundry bag – For damp clothes after beach walks or rainy days.
- 🛏️ Sleep mask + earplugs – Street noise or shared rooms can interrupt sleep.
👗 Clothes
- 🧥 Light-to-midweight coat or puffer – Needed every day.
- 🧣 Scarf (1–2) – Doubles as an accessory and wind barrier.
- 👚 Long-sleeve tops / thermal shirts (3–4) – Layering basics.
- 🧥 Sweaters / hoodies (2–3) – Versatile warmth.
- 👖 Jeans or comfy pants (2–3) – San Francisco uniform.
- 👗 Casual dress or skirt (1) – Pair with tights and boots for evenings.
- 🧦 Warm socks (5–7 pairs)
- 🧤 Gloves (optional) – Especially for windy evening strolls.
- 🩲 Underwear + bras – Pack for your full stay.
💆 Skincare
- 🧴 Hydrating moisturizer – Wind + fog = dry skin combo.
- 🌞 SPF – Even fog-filtered sun can burn.
- 💋 Lip balm – Must-have for cool, dry air.
- 🧼 Cleanser – Wash off city grit and pollution.
- 💦 Hydrating serum – For overnight moisture recovery.
💄 Makeup
- 🧴 Tinted moisturizer – Natural and wind-resistant.
- 👁️ Neutral eyeshadow palette – Low-maintenance city looks.
- 💄 Lipstick or balm (2–3) – Add warmth and polish.
- 🎯 Concealer – Jet lag or wind flush fixer.
- 💅 Compact makeup kit – Keep it minimal and blendable.
💇 Hair
- 🧴 Shampoo + conditioner – Travel-sized for Airbnb stays.
- 🪮 Brush + clips / hair ties – Windy days require backup.
- 🌬️ Dry shampoo – Revives your hair after foggy walks.
- 🌀 Styling tool (optional) – For dinners or nights out in North Beach.
👠 Shoes & Accessories
- 👟 Comfortable walking shoes – Must be good for hills.
- 👢 Ankle boots (optional) – Great for going out.
- 🥿 Flats or slip-ons – Easy for indoor attractions or cafes.
- 👜 Crossbody or anti-theft bag – For city exploring.
- ☂️ Compact umbrella – Occasional rain = be ready.
- 🧢 Hat or beanie – Weather depends on the neighborhood!
🧾 Documents & Essentials
- 🪪 ID / driver’s license – Required for bar entry or rentals.
- 📄 Printed tickets or passes – For Alcatraz, cable car, or museums.
- 💳 Debit/credit card – Almost everywhere is cashless.
- 💵 Small cash – For tipping musicians, street food, or local transit.
- 📱 Offline maps + transit apps – Muni and BART help is key.
📱 Tech & Electronics
- 📱 Phone + charger – You’ll be navigating constantly.
- 🔋 Power bank – Battery dies fast on cold days + heavy use.
- 📷 Camera (optional) – SF is filled with photo-worthy views.
- 🎧 Headphones – For hills, podcasts, or solo walks by the water.
🎒 Extras
- 💧 Reusable water bottle – Stay hydrated walking those hills.
- 🍫 Snacks – For day trips to Muir Woods or the coast.
- 🧼 Hand sanitizer + wipes – Especially after public transit.
- 🛍️ Foldable shopping bag – SF is plastic-bag-free.
- 🧣 Face mask – Optional, but still worn in some transit or stores.
✈️ Travel Tips
- ✅ Layer every day — even locals bring a jacket everywhere.
- ✅ Don’t expect traditional “California heat.”
- ✅ Book Alcatraz and major attractions in advance.
- ✅ Use public transit or walk — parking is expensive & limited.
✅ Must-Haves for San Francisco in November
- 🧥 Warm, wind-resistant jacket
- 👟 Comfortable walking shoes
- ☂️ Umbrella + waterproof layer
- 📱 Phone + charger + power bank
- 🧴 Moisturizer + SPF + lip balm
- 👜 Crossbody bag
- 🧣 Scarf + layers for microclimates
✔️ You’re Ready for San Francisco in November!
With this San Francisco November packing list, you’ll be ready to layer like a local, roam from Mission to Marina in comfort, and enjoy everything from coffee shops to coastal hikes — fog and all. 🌉🍂🧳
