Not sure about what to pack for New York City for your upcoming trip? This comprehensive NYC packing list by season has got you covered. As a native New Yorker, here are some valuable tips and recommendations to ensure you’re fully prepared for your adventure in the city that never sleeps!
Things to consider before Packing for Your Trip to New York City
Weather
NYC has four seasons and is known for its unpredictability. It can surprise you with unusually warm and sunny days, even in February, only to have snowfall the very next day. That’s why it’s wise to be equipped for any weather scenario when you’re getting ready for a trip to NYC. Always check the weather forecast before your trip to pack appropriate clothing.
Layering
Regardless of the season, layering is key. Pack versatile clothing items that you can easily add or remove to adapt to changing weather conditions throughout the day.
Comfortable Shoes
You’ll likely be doing ALOT of walking in the city, so comfortable and sturdy shoes are a must. Consider packing sneakers or walking shoes. My favorite is these cute and comfy white sneakers by Madewell that can match almost any outfit.
Adaptable Clothing:
Pack a mix of casual and slightly dressier clothing to suit various activities, whether it’s exploring museums, dining out, or attending a Broadway show.
Dress Code
While certain upscale restaurants and nightclubs could have a dress code that leans towards formal attire for both women and men (including long pants), most establishments do not have strict regulations in place.
What to Pack For New York City In The Fall
Shop the day look: Shacket | White Top | Dark Denim | Aviator Sunglasses | Backpack | Neutral Sneakers
Shop the night look: Camel Coat | Ribbed Turtleneck | Faux Leather Leggings | Vegan Leather Handbag | Ankle Booties
Shacket
A hybrid of a jacket and shirt, the shacket is perfect for NYC fall weather while providing warmth without causing you to overheat! It gets chilly here at night, but you won’t need a heavy winter coat just yet.
Camel Coat
If you plan on heading out to an upscale restaurant or a Broadway show, a camel coat will give you a dressier look without all the bulk.
Tops
I would bring a few t-shirts and also some lightweight sweaters.
Bottoms
Darker wash denim jeans and faux leather leggings are perfect for packing because you can dress them up for a night out or down during the day with sneakers! My favorite is these faux leather leggings from Spanx, which are super comfy and gives you a chic New Yorker look. If you’re visiting with your dog, you won’t have to worry about dog hair sticking to these leggings, either.
If you need more outfit ideas with faux leather leggings, read my post on 10 Faux Leather Leggings Outfit Ideas To Wear.
Shoes
The neutral sneakers from Madewell are perfect to match any outfit and will keep your feet comfy all day from walking in the city.
As for the night and evening, I would bring a pair of ankle booties which can pair very well with denim or the Spanx faux leather leggings. I’ve had these Michael Kors ankle booties for three years, and now a part of my fall capsule wardrobe.
And, if you have enough room in your luggage, these over-the-knee boots from Stuart Weitzman look so good for Fall!
WHAT TO PACK FOR NEW YORK CITY IN THE WINTER
Shop the day look: Winter Parka | Dark Denim | Mockneck Sweater | Backpack | Beanie Hat | Snow Boots
Shop the night look: Camel Coat | Chunky Oversized Turtleneck | Dark Denim | Leather Purse | Over-the Knee Boot
What weather to expect during Winter in NYC?
NYC winters can be brutal. The coldest month of the year in New York City is January, with an average low of 29°F and high of 40°F. It’s essential to pack a heavy coat for wind resistance, waterproof footwear, and cozy accessories like hats, gloves, and scarves.
Winter Coat
Imagine being freezing and unable to explore all NYC offers, like outdoor holiday markets, the Rockefeller Christmas tree, and the gorgeous Central Park. It will ruin your mood and trip! Here’s my go-to winter-insulated parka that I’ve had for years! You can never go wrong with The North Face’s winter jackets!
If you’re looking for an athlesiure look, Alo Yoga is my favorite place to shop. I got their ice breaker puffer jacket, and it was warm enough for those frigid days. I also love their faux fur and Sherpa coats!
Sweaters
Turtleneck sweaters are great because that means you won’t need to wear a scarf! Also, bring some thermal undershirts for those days with freezing temps!
Shoes
Make sure to pack some tough boots for strolling around. With the chance of unexpected snow or rain, it’s a good idea to go for waterproof ones.
When it’s not snowing or raining, a pair of Uggs is perfect for walking around the city while keeping your feet warm. Combat boots are another great option! If you plan on heading out to an upscale place, an ankle bootie or over-the-knee boot is your best bet.
Accessories
Winter hats are a must for NYC winters! Make sure to bring gloves and a scarf; these thermal fleece-lined stockings are essential if you wear a dress!
WHAT TO PACK FOR NEW YORK CITY IN THE SPRING
Shop the day look: White Easy Tee | New York Sweatshirt | High Rise Straight Leg Jean | Yankees Cap | Crossbody Bag | Neutral Sneakers
Shop the night look: Black Fitted Tee | Tailored Pants | Sandal | Vegan Leather Purse
What weather to expect during Spring in NYC?
The average spring temperature during the spring months can range from 40’s degrees to the low 70’s, and you’ll get rainy weather- so bring a travel umbrella!
Light Jacket
A denim jacket or army jacket during the day and a light wool coat for the night would be your best bet.
Denim Jeans
Long denim jeans are versatile and go well with anything! I would go with light-colored denim.
Tailored Trousers
Tailored pants can be dressed up or down and are the perfect spring staple. Wear them with sneakers or cute strappy sandals for a night out.
Tops
Since the weather is slowly starting to heat up, it’s important to bring layers! Casual long-sleeved and shirt-sleeved t-shirts are ideal. Ribbed tanks to wear underneath a sweatshirt or denim jacket is a great choice too.
Shoes
You got to have comfy shoes for all the walking in NYC. For spring, think about packing comfy sneakers, flats, and maybe some slightly fancier sandals.
WHAT TO PACK FOR NEW YORK CITY IN THE SUMMER
Shop the day look: Scoop neck tank | High Waisted Denim Shorts | New York Yankees Cap | Aviator Sunglasses | Lightweight Backpack | Slide in Sandals | Neutral Sneakers
Shop the night look: Linen Dress | Vegan Leather Purse | Beige Strappy Heels
What kind of weather to expect during Summer in NYC?
I can’t stand summer in NYC! Get ready for some hot and humid days. On average, the temps range from 80 to 90+ degrees from June through August.
If you’re taking the subway, then good luck! There’s no AC while you’re waiting on the platforms! You’re going to need lightweight, breathable fabrics. Athleisure is perfect for summer because of its moisture-wicking performance materials. Linens are another choice of fabric material I would bring.
Also, bring a long sleeve shirt or a super lightweight summer cardigan. You’re going to need it when you’re indoors. Most stores and restaurants will be having the AC on full blast!
Casual Tops
Tanks and easy-fitted t-shirts are your go-tos during the hot NYC summers.
Athleisure tops, bottoms, dresses
As I said, athleisure wear is perfect because of its moisture-wicking materials. Here are some crop tanks and cute skorts ideas.
Bottoms
If athleisure isn’t your thing, denim shorts are a classic summer staple. They go well with any top! A pull up linen short is super comfy and lightweight too.
Comfy dresses
Tennis dresses (for moisture wicking) and linen dresses will be your goto.
Performance Moisture Wicking Underwear
Walking miles and being sweaty down there is not a good feeling. Do yourself a favor and get some moisture-wicking underwear. These Under Armour seamless panties are the ones I wear every summer.
Shoes
Neutral sneakers, comfy flat slip on sandals and dressy strappy sandals with a small heel is your best bet!
Accessories
Pack a cap for those hot summer days, and don’t forget the sunscreen!
PACKING ESSENTIALS FOR NEW YORK CITY TRIP
Backback and Crossbody Bags
The only bag you should pack to explore NYC is a backpack or crossbody bag because you can be hands-free. Totes are a terrible idea. It’s a pain to have tote straps falling off your shoulders, and it makes it so much easier for someone to grab your tote and run away with it.
Here are some backpacks and crossbody bags that are big enough to carry all your essentials, souvenirs, and more while you are exploring the city!
If you are going out to a Broadway show or to an upscale restaurant, here are some cute ones!
Portable charger
You’ll often use your phone to look up directions and take photos and videos! It would suck to have your battery die out.
Packing cubes
Keep your luggage organized with these packing cubes. Use the smallest cube to keep all of your small items like lip balms, keys, metro cards for the subway and wallet in your backpack or crossbody bag. This will make looking for your items so much easier and they aren’t scattered all in your bag.
Travel sized umbrella
Get yourself a quality umbrella to withstand those windy and rainy days In NYC! It sucks to run around in the rain looking to buy another one if they break.
Water bottle
Invest in a quality water bottle for refilling that is self-cleaning and purifies your water! Water is not cheap in New York City especially the touristy areas! Some places might charge you $6 for a small bottle!
TIP: Look for a Shake Shack! They have an area where you can walk in and refill your bottle with their filtered water.
Must-Have For Your Dog’s New York City trip
I hope you are bringing your pup to experience New York City! There are so many dog-friendly places and things to do here, and they will love the iconic Central Park. If you’re driving to NYC, here are 16 tips for road trips with your dog.
Mushers Paw Wax
Keep in mind that your pup will be walking on concrete pavement all day, so make sure you put on some paw balm for protection before heading out! This paw balm protects your dog’s paws from snow and sleet in the winter and just the rough pavement in general. I put this on my Siberian Husky, Gatsby, every time we head out to the city for long walks.
In Case You Forget To Pack Something For Your NYC Trip
Makeup
No stress if you leave your favorite lipstick behind! NYC has you covered with makeup shops like Sephora and Ulta Beauty scattered across most neighborhoods.
Toiletries
You’ll spot convenience stores like CVS and Duane Reade (which is like New York’s version of Walgreens) on practically every street corner.
Dog Food
If your dog eats a raw or homemade diet, head over to the Petco Flagship store located at Union Square and you can pick up some fresh meals made by “Just Food For Dogs”.
Address: 44 Union Square E, New York, NY 10003
Check out our Instagram Reel showing you the Petco Flagship store in Union Square, NYC:
Before heading out, take a look at these useful NYC articles for your NYC trip. If you’re traveling with your dog, you’re going to want to read these:
Best Things to Do With Your Dog in NYC This Fall
12 Best Things To Do In NYC In December
Dog-Friendly NYC Cruise With Circle Line
Dog-Friendly Museum in NYC: AKC Museum of the Dog
Dog-Friendly Places In NYC To Visit With Your Dog
Dog Days at Governor’s Island, NYC
The Ultimate Guide to Dog-Friendly Central Park Attractions
Best Dog-Friendly Instagram Spots in NYC
Shop this digital travel journal and planner to help you plan the trip of your dreams!
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