It’s summer! Or it’s supposed to be. London’s weather has had ups and downs, but my inner Californian is optimistic for blue skies ahead. If you’re traveling to the UK and don’t have room to bring your entire wardrobe with you, here’s my helpful summer packing list for London. Rain or shine, these 6 items will help you travel light and fit in with the locals.
Summer Packing List for London
I wish someone had given me advice on what to wear in London in the summer when I first moved to the UK. I always found myself caught in the rain, overheated on the tube, or lacking the accessories I needed to survive the vicissitudes of the British weather—four seasons in one day is surprisingly accurate. Now that I’ve learned what I need to thrive, I hope this packing list will help you avoid the pitfalls I made.
Summer Scarf
The best summer accessory I own is a scarf. Being Californian, I’d never heard of a summer scarf before. In fact, I thought it was an oxymoron. Who needs a scarf in summer? Londoners, that’s who. And I can’t imagine living in London without one.
Summer scarves are lightweight, easy to pack or carry in a handbag, and add a nice splash of color to an outfit. And that’s to say nothing of how useful they are when the weather suddenly changes.
If you’re in the UK, you can buy them here. If you’re in the US, you can get them here.
Trench Coat
There’s nothing more British than a classic trench coat, and I’ve gotten more use out of mine than any other item in my wardrobe this summer.
My favorite trench coats are sleek and stylish, and offer the perfect combination of function and fashion. They keep me warm enough to take the edge off the summer chill but not too hot when the wind dies down. I belt them up on rainy days and tie them back on dry ones, and just like that I have the perfect accessory.
If you’re in the UK, get one here. If you’re in the US, get one here.
Umbrella
Let’s face it: it rains a lot in London. While some locals refuse to carry umbrellas, the practical among us never leave home without one or three in our bag.
Given how often I lose umbrellas, I like to go for a mix of quality and price. I need one that won’t cost a fortune and isn’t going to blow inside out when the wind picks up. I also require one that’s small enough to fit in my handbag, because there are a lot of mornings when I can’t tell whether it will rain or not.
If you’re in the UK, this is a good one. If you’re in the US, this one is just the thing.
Flats
I love to walk. It’s my favorite way to see London, and a great way to get a feel for the city’s unique neighborhoods and lovely details. But given the heel-eating nature of London’s streets, flats are essential for exploring.
I’ve tested out a lot of flats over the years, but my favorites are from French Sole. They’re well-made and durable without compromising on style. They can also dress up or down easily, so they fit with any occasion. Best of all, they’re really comfortable.
If you’re in the UK, get them here. If you’re in the US, buy them here.
Sunglasses
While London isn’t as sunny as California, I still carry my sunglasses everywhere I go. After all, it’s just as common to be blinded by strong rays when emerging from the tube as it is to be blindsided by an unexpected downpour.
All my sunglasses come from Michael Kors. They last forever, have strong cases that can stand up to a bit of battering in my bag, and have great classic features. I only wish I got to wear them more.
If you’re in the UK, these are the perfect pair. If you’re in the US, check these out.
Bag
At this point you’re probably wondering how I carry all these accessories around with me. Which is why no summer packing list for London would be complete without the inclusion of a bag.
After hearing friends sing their praises for ages, I finally bought a large Longchamp Le Pliage tote bag last year. It revolutionized my London life and travels. It’s roomy, lightweight, and above all, it packs so well it barely takes up any room in my suitcase. I honestly don’t know how I lived without one for so long.
If you’re in the UK, buy it here. If you’re in the US, get it here.
How about you? What would you put on your summer packing list for London?
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