December in the UK means festive charm, chilly air, and frequent drizzle. From London’s Christmas lights to the Highlands of Scotland, you’ll want layers that adapt to changeable weather while still keeping you stylish and warm.
This UK-wide packing list covers England, Scotland, and Wales—whether you’re sightseeing in cities, enjoying countryside pubs, or exploring castle ruins.
📝 Note: This article is all about what to pack for the UK 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 🌦️
- England (London): 3–8°C / 37–46°F
- Scotland (Edinburgh): 1–6°C / 34–43°F, chance of snow
- Wales (Cardiff): 4–9°C / 39–48°F, rainy and windy
- Daylight: Sunsets around 4 PM
What to Pack for the UK in December
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
- Waterproof suitcase or cover – 🧳 Essential in rainy regions.
- Daypack – 🎒 Perfect for daily exploring.
- Packing cubes – 📦 Easy organization across regions.
- Shoe bags – 👟 For muddy boots and wet shoes.
- Toiletry bag – 🪥 Keeps essentials dry.
- Laundry pouch – 🧺 For wet socks and thermals.
- Luggage lock – 🔒 Always useful on trains and buses.
👗 Clothes
- Waterproof coat or trench – 🧥 Style meets function.
- Thermal tops (2–3) – ❄️ Light but warm.
- Knit sweaters (2–3) – 🧶 Warmth + pub-ready style.
- Long-sleeve tops (3–4) – 👕 Essential mid-layers.
- Jeans or thick trousers – 👖 For warmth and durability.
- Wool socks (5–7) – 🧦 Your best friends on wet days.
- Scarf, gloves, beanie – 🧣🧤🧢 Non-negotiable!
- Pajamas – 💤 Bring warm ones; heating varies.
- Fleece leggings – 🧤 Extra layer under dresses or pants.
- Undergarments (7+) – 👙 Quick-dry and comfortable.
💆 Skincare
- Gentle cleanser – 🧼 Avoid skin irritation.
- Rich moisturizer – 🧴 Combat dry winds.
- Lip balm – 💋 Keep lips protected.
- SPF – 🌥️ Still needed under cloud cover.
- Eye cream – 👁️ Soothe tired travel eyes.
💄 Makeup
- Hydrating foundation – 🧴 Cold air friendly.
- Concealer – 🔍 For late nights or red noses.
- Blush – 🌸 Brightens your face against grey skies.
- Bold lipstick – 💄 Festive markets = festive looks.
- Waterproof mascara – 💧 For mist and drizzle.
💇 Hair Care
- Anti-frizz shampoo – 🧴 Handles UK humidity.
- Dry shampoo – 🌬️ Refresh styles easily.
- Hairbrush + ties – 💇 Basics for every day.
- Mini heat tools – 🔌 For quick styling on the go.
👟 Shoes & Accessories
- Waterproof boots – 👢 City and countryside ready.
- Comfy walking shoes – 👟 For museums or shopping.
- Dressier flats – 👠 Optional for dinner or theatre.
- Umbrella – ☔ Wind-resistant preferred.
- Crossbody bag – 👜 Secure and hands-free.
- Sunglasses – 🕶️ Rare but possible!
📑 Documents & Essentials
- Passport – 🛂 Required even between UK & EU.
- Visa (if applicable) – 📝 UK is not Schengen.
- Travel insurance – 🏥 Recommended in winter.
- Credit/debit cards – 💳 Most places are cashless.
- Cash – 💷 Some smaller shops or tips.
- Printouts – 📄 For bookings or emergency access.
🚑 First Aid
- Plasters – 🩹 Cold + walking = blisters.
- Cold/flu tablets – 🤧 Catching a chill is common.
- Painkillers – 💊 For headaches or sore muscles.
- Motion sickness meds – 🚍 For country roads or ferries.
🧼 Health & Hygiene
- Toothbrush & toothpaste – 🪥 Standard kit.
- Deodorant – 🌸 Bring your favorite brand.
- Tissues – 🤧 Always handy outdoors.
- Feminine hygiene – 🩸 Bring what you need.
- Hand sanitizer – 🧴 For public transport & pubs.
📱 Tech & Electronics
- Phone + charger – 📱 Always.
- Power bank – 🔋 Essential for long day trips.
- UK plug adapter (Type G) – 🔌 Required for all regions.
- Offline maps – 🗺️ Rural areas may lack service.
🎧 Entertainment
- Book or Kindle – 📚 Cosy reading in cafés or trains.
- Offline playlists – 🎶 Especially for remote areas.
- Journal – 📓 Reflect on your UK experience.
🎁 Extras
- Reusable bottle – 💧 Stay hydrated despite the cold.
- Snacks – 🍫 For countryside road trips.
- Reusable tote – 🛍️ Shops charge for bags.
🌍 Travel Tips
- Layer daily – 🧥 Weather swings happen hourly.
- Book attractions early – 🎟️ Holidays = crowds.
- Photo your luggage – 📸 Always a smart move.
🛂 Visa Tips
- UK has different visa rules – 🛂 Don’t assume EU access applies.
- Bring proof of accommodation – 🖨️ May be requested on arrival.
⭐ Must-Haves
- Passport + insurance – 🛂🏥 Non-negotiable.
- Waterproof boots + jacket – 👢🧥 Core winter gear.
- Plug adapter (Type G) – 🔌 Don’t forget this one!
👍 Good-to-Have
- Scarf that doubles as a blanket – 🧣 Perfect for trains.
- Reusable mug – ☕ Warm drinks on chilly mornings.
- Mini umbrella – ☔ Easily fits in your day bag.
