Essential Packing List for London in Winter: How to Pack Smart 

Packing for a week in London requires balancing warmth, versatility, and practicality. This packing list for London in winter is designed for a week but can easily be adapted if you’re following my 2 days in London itinerary and spending time in other parts of the UK. 

Whether you’re planning to explore the city’s iconic landmarks or cozy up in charming pubs, this London packing list will give you the complete list of what to bring to London in winter and help you stay comfortable and stylish.

From December to February, London typically experiences winter temperatures that are relatively mild compared to many other northern European cities, plus many cities in North America. On average, the temps you can expect in London are:

• Average High Temperature: 8°C to 9°C (46°F to 48°F)
• Average Low Temperature: 3°C to 4°C (37°F to 39°F)

London’s winter weather is generally characterized by cool temperatures, occasional frost, and frequent rain. Snow is possible but relatively rare. Ie. You’re not going to need a parka but you are going to want a decent coat. For more on the weather, check out my post on the worst times to visit London (and the best!)

I grew up in Minnesota where the average low temps regularly get below zero, so I found temperatures when I was visiting London in February to be really mild compared to that. I also happened to catch a stroke of luck and not encounter any rain on my trip, but I was thoroughly prepared just in case.

Here’s a suggested London winter packing list:

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Clothing

• Tops: 5-6
  Include a mix of long-sleeve shirts, blouses, and sweaters. Choose solid-colored pieces that you can layer and mix and match to create various outfits. A thermal top or a stylish turtleneck are ideal for staying warm in cooler weather.
  • Pro tip: wear your bulkiest clothes on the plane, especially if they are easily taken off and put back on. You don’t have to find room for them in your luggage and you can use them as a makeshift pillow. 
• Bottoms: 3-4
  Pack 1 pair of denim jeans and 1 pair of black jeans or thermal leggings for warmth. Include 1 pair of dressier pants or skirts if you’re planning to dine out or attend formal events.
  • In general, Europeans don’t wear athleisure like we do in America. So if you’re packing for London winter time and planning to walk around in tennis shoes, leggings, and a Northface sweatshirt, people will immediately know you’re a tourist. But you’ll also be super comfortable so it’s up to you if you care or not. 
• Dresses: 1
  Opt for a versatile long sleeve dress that can be layered with tights and paired with a warm coat. Solid colors are preferable as they’re timeless and way style into London winter outfits. If you plan to have afternoon tea or have a fancier dinner, you’ll want this. If you aren’t usually a dress person, skip this and add another top instead. Only pack things you’ll 100% wear!
• Outerwear: 1-2
  A warm winter coat is essential for winter in London. Consider a waterproof option to handle London’s frequent rain. If you don’t already have one, this one is really warm, waterproof, and stylish and is a great price at around $50.
  • Again, temperatures in the 40s don’t typically warrant a parka, so don’t feel like you need a Canada Goose jacket or crazy amounts of down.
  • Also, pack a lighter jacket or cute cardigan for indoor settings.
• Swimwear: 1
  This isn’t really something you want to wear in London in winter. Pack only if you plan to visit a hotel pool or spa. While London isn’t known for beach activities, some accommodations offer indoor pools that you might want to relax in. Otherwise, skip this.
• Sleepwear: 1
  Choose something cozy and suitable for cooler temperatures. Hotels in London often have central heating, but having warm sleepwear is a good idea with how drafty some of the older buildings can get.
• Undergarments: 7-9 pairs
  Pack enough for each day of the week plus a few extras.
• Socks: 7-10 pairs
  Bring warm socks, including a few pairs of thermal or merino wool socks for added comfort during chilly days.
• Make sure to bring one pair of compression socks for the flight. These babies can prevent swelling and help improve circulation on long flights. If you’re on birth control, flying for extended periods can increase your risk of blood clots, and compression socks can help reduce that risk by improving circulation.*
  • *Basic Economy B is many things but doctor is not one of them. Always consult with your healthcare provider if you have concerns about long periods of travel.

Footwear

• Comfortable Walking Shoes: 1-2 pairs
  London is a city best explored on foot, so bring comfortable and weather-appropriate shoes. No London packing guide would be complete without mentioning that waterproof options are ideal due to the city’s infamous rain. No need to bring winter boots.
• Dress Shoes or Boots: 1 pair
  Pack a pair of stylish boots that can handle wet or slushy conditions. If you prefer heels, opt for something chunky and stable.
  • My favorite boots for Europe in the winter are my Teva boots. They’re waterproof and stylish with a slight heel, but super comfortable and super versatile. I love Teva’s sandal wedges too (to the point where I think I logged 250 miles walking around cobblestone), but you won’t be needing those in winter.

Accessories

• Scarf/Gloves/Beanie: 1 each
  These are all essential for staying warm and are also great for adding style to your outfits. A versatile scarf can also double as a shawl for extra warmth. Especially if you’re traveling from London to Scotland where the weather can be extra unpredictable.
  • I love this pashmina scarf as it’s light enough that you won’t be flushed and sweating going in and out of buildings, but substantial enough to keep your neck from freezing.
  • These gloves are waterproof and excellent if you’re walking around in the city or hillwalking in other parts of England.
  • I would only bring one beanie, so I’d recommend a solid, neutral colored one that is waterproof, like this one. 
• Umbrella: 1
  London weather can be unpredictable, so a compact, sturdy umbrella is one of the best things to pack for London for staying dry during sudden rain showers. You can pick this up in London if you don’t already have one that packs down nicely like this one.
• Crossbody Bag: 1
  Useful for keeping your belongings secure while exploring the city. A crossbody bag also helps to avoid pickpockets. This one is not only super cute but also big enough to hold your small umbrella, gloves, Oyster card, and electronics. Plus it’s under $20.

Toiletries

• Moisturizer and Lip Balm – Winter weather can be harsh on your skin, so pack hydrating skincare products to keep your skin and lips from drying out.
• Travel-Size Shampoo and Conditioner – Pack small bottles to comply with airline regulations, as some hotels may not provide these amenities.
• Deodorant – Bring a travel-sized option to save space in your luggage.
• Makeup and Makeup Remover – Pack only the essentials if you wear makeup. I would recommend making sure you have waterproof options with you in case you are dealing with rain and don’t want to look like a drowned raccoon.
• Hairbrush/Comb
• Toothbrush and Toothpaste

Health and Safety

• Medications – Bring any prescription medications and a small first aid kit with essentials like band-aids, pain relievers, and allergy medicine. Pharmacies are abundant in London so if you forget any non-prescription items, you can easily pick them up.
• Hand Sanitizer – Keep your hands clean when soap and water aren’t available.
• Travel Insurance – This one is virtual, so nothing to physically pack, but don’t skip it. I used to skip travel insurance due to budget constraints, but once I realized I was essentially without health insurance abroad (which is crazy), I started getting it.
  • My favorite is travelinsurance.com, as it allows you to compare different options and prices, kind of like booking.com or Tripadvisor.
• Luggage Lock – Useful if you plan to leave your bags at your accommodation before check-in or after check-out. Multiple people usually have access to your bags during this time and it’s not a bad idea to have this little lock that’s under $10.

Documents

• Passport -Ensure it’s valid for the duration of your trip. Unlike other nations, the UK does not require American passports to be valid for at least 6 months following the start of your trip.
• Driver’s License – If you plan to rent a car, though, driving in London is typically not recommended due to traffic. Public transit is way better!
• Credit/Debit Cards – Most banks don’t need a heads-up for international travel in this day and age (Capital One never has cared where in the world this Basic Economy B is), but smaller banks might want the heads up.

Technology

• Phone – Self explanatory and something you’re unlikely to forget. Or get very fair without.
• Chargers – For all your electronic devices, including a portable power bank for longer travel days.
• Travel Adapter -The UK uses Type G plugs, so bring an adapter for your devices. I recommend a compact model with multiple ports for convenience. This one is my favorite as my husband and I don’t have to fight about who gets to charge what.

I discuss this in my essential travel tips for Scotland, but it applies to London as well: I strongly recommend packing light if possible. London’s public transport and cobblestone streets can be challenging with bulky luggage, so consider using a carry-on and a compact backpack. I promise – it is possible, even in winter when you’re going to be wearing bulkier clothing than the summer months.

Packing cubes are incredibly useful for organizing your clothes and making the most of your carry-on space. Seriously, it’s one of my favorite packing tips. Alternatively, the classic roll method is perfect for maximizing your luggage and avoiding checked baggage (and the expensive fees that go along with it!)

By following this London packing list for winter, you’ll have a well-rounded wardrobe suited for the chilly weather and various activities. Mix and match your outfits to make the most of your suitcase space and enjoy your London adventure!

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More UK from Basic Economy B:

• Worst Time to Visit London (and the Best!) – Ultimate Guide
• Essential Packing List for London in Winter: How to Pack Smart 
• Full Breakdown on the Best Way to Travel from London to Scotland
• 2 Day London Itinerary: Discover the Best of the City on a Budget
• 35 Essential Tips for Traveling to Scotland for the First Time