Planning a summer getaway to the UK? Here’s exactly what to pack for the UK in summer—rain or shine—so you’re prepped for pub gardens, countryside hikes, and those unexpected drizzles.
Weather Overview 🌡️
UK summers (June to August) are pleasantly mild, with temperatures ranging from 13°C to 22°C (55°F–72°F).
Well, it can also get as high as 27 degrees, we never know!
However, British weather is famously unpredictable—sunshine one moment, a passing shower the next. Light layers and waterproof essentials are a must.
✈️ ULTIMATE PARIS JULY PACKING LIST
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
- 🧳 Carry-on suitcase (1) – Lightweight with spinner wheels for cobbled streets
- 🧼 Packing cubes (4–6) – For easy sorting of rainwear and outfits
- 🎒 Daypack or tote (1) – Water-resistant preferred
- 🧺 Laundry kit or bag (1) – Great for longer stays
- 🧵 Zipper pouch (1) – For UK coins and travel cards (Oyster, etc.)
- 🛁 Waterproof toiletry bag (1) – UK bathrooms are compact—stay organized
- 👜 Collapsible tote (1) – For groceries, souvenirs, or countryside picnics
- 🏷️ Luggage tag + small lock (1 each) – Trains are common; secure your gear
- 💤 Inflatable neck pillow + eye mask – For long train or coach rides
👗 Clothes
- 👕 T-shirts (3–4) – Easy layering base
- 👚 Light blouses / tops (2–3) – Dress up jeans or trousers
- 🧥 Lightweight raincoat (1) – Non-negotiable for UK drizzle
- 🧶 Cardigan / light sweater (1–2) – Chilly mornings or indoor AC
- 👖 Jeans / casual pants (2–3) – Go with dark wash for city vibes
- 👗 Day dresses / jumpsuits (1–2) – Perfect for afternoon tea or museums
- 🩳 Shorts (1–2) – For warm days or coastal walks
- 🩱 Swimsuit (1–2) – For spas or if venturing to Brighton or Cornwall
- 🧦 Socks (3–5 pairs) – Comfy for all the walking
- 👙 Swimsuit cover-up (1) – For spa hotels or beach towns
- 🩲 Underwear (1 per day) + bras (3) – Essentials
- 😴 Pajamas / loungewear (1–2) – Cozy up for cool nights
- 🧤 Scarf or pashmina (1) – Adds polish and warmth
💆 Skincare
- 🧴 Moisturizer – UK tap water can be drying
- 🌞 Sunscreen (face + body) – Yes, even in England!
- 💋 Lip balm – Windy days ahead
- 💧 Facial mist – Refresh mid-hike or after Tube rides
- 🧽 Cleanser + toner – Clean off city grime
- 🌙 Makeup remover / micellar water – Easy on tired nights
💄 Makeup
- 💧 BB cream – Lightweight and hydrating
- 💁 Waterproof mascara – Rain-proof those lashes
- 🌟 Highlighter – Get that glow even on cloudy days
- 💄 Lip tint / gloss – Pop of color without the fuss
- 💨 Setting spray – Lock it in during misty days
💇 Hair
- 💨 Travel hair dryer – Not always provided in Airbnbs
- 💦 Dry shampoo – For unexpected schedule changes
- 🧴 Mini shampoo + conditioner – UK brands might differ
- 🖌️ Hairbrush + ties – Tame flyaways in seaside breeze
- 💁♀️ Heat protectant spray – For styling while abroad
👠 Shoes & Accessories
- 👟 Sneakers / walking shoes (1 pair) – For cobblestones and castles
- 🥿 Flats or sandals (1 pair) – For pub gardens or sunny strolls
- 👢 Boots (optional) – Short waterproof pair if you’re venturing rural
- 🕶️ Sunglasses – You will get sunny moments
- 👒 Hat / cap – Protects against unexpected sun
- 👜 Crossbody bag – Anti-theft styles ideal in cities
- 🌂 Compact umbrella – ALWAYS carry one in the UK
🧾 Documents & Essentials
- 🛂 Passport + copies
- 📄 Visa (if needed)
- 💳 Credit + debit cards – Inform your bank
- 💷 Local currency (GBP) – Useful for small purchases
- 🏨 Printed hotel receipts + travel itinerary
- 🗺️ Offline maps / directions – Some countryside areas lack service
- 🖊️ Notebook + pen – Handy for Tube notes or journaling
- 🗝️ House keys / emergency contacts
🩹 First Aid
- 💊 Painkillers (Paracetamol or Ibuprofen)
- 🩹 Bandaids + blister pads – Lots of walking = happy feet prep
- 🌡️ Thermometer + antiseptic wipes – Stay safe, not sorry
💊 Health & Hygiene
- 💊 Prescription meds – In labeled containers
- 🧻 Tissues – Some public loos lack them
- 🧼 Hand sanitizer + wipes
- 🧴 Body wash + deodorant
- 🪥 Toothbrush + toothpaste
- 🪒 Razor + shaving gel
- 🌸 Feminine hygiene products – Familiar brands may vary
📱 Tech & Electronics
- 📱 Phone + charger
- 🔌 Universal plug adapter – Type G for the UK
- 🔋 Portable power bank – Long train days saved
- 📸 Camera + memory card – UK = photo heaven
- 🎧 Headphones / earbuds – Perfect for Tube time
- 💻 Tablet / e-reader – For rainy afternoon cafés
🎧 Entertainment
- 📚 Books / Kindle – Add a classic British read!
- 🎶 Playlists + podcasts – For road trips or walks
- 🃏 Travel games / journal – Rainy day fun
🎒 Extras
- 🥤 Reusable water bottle – Refill stations are common
- 🍫 Snacks / protein bars – Great for train days
- 🧼 Laundry detergent sheets – Easy to pack, no mess
- 🧵 Sewing kit + lint roller – For quick fixes
- 🌿 Melatonin or sleep aid – Jet lag helper
- 🧴 Bug spray – Especially in the Lake District or countryside stays
✈️ Travel Tips
- ✅ Check rail pass options if traveling regionally
- 📱 Download UK-specific apps: National Rail, Citymapper, and TfL Go
- ☕ Don’t skip the afternoon tea—book in advance for popular spots!
- 🧥 Layering is your BFF—never trust just the weather app
🛂 Visa Tips
- 🛃 Most tourists from US/EU don’t need visas under 6 months
- 🖨️ Print proof of return flight and accommodation
- 📸 Carry passport-sized photos just in case
- ✅ Double-check rules if you’re transiting via Ireland or EU
✅ Must-Haves for a Smooth Trip
- 📱 Phone + UK plug adapter
- 💳 Emergency cash + cards
- 🧥 Waterproof layers
- 🛂 Passport + documents
- 🧺 Laundry bag + cubes
- 💧 Hydration + snacks
- 🌧️ Umbrella
👍 Good-to-Have Items
- 🛌 Travel blanket
- 😷 Face mask (optional, still used on some transport)
- 📶 eSIM or UK SIM card
- 👜 Extra tote for markets
- 🧼 Travel steamer for wrinkle-free chic
