When you head to London, you are probably considering what you need to pack to fit in with Londoners during your visit! So, we are here to give you some inspiration for the kinds of things you might want to pack for different occasions, whilst also helping you to save space in your suitcase. When you pack these things, you’ll feel like a true Londoner!
Our first tip for your trip to London, and perhaps the most important, is to pack comfy shoes. London is a big place, and if you want to see it properly, you will need to do a lot of walking in combination with using public transport. So, you definitely shouldn’t be taking any new shoes or slightly uncomfortable ones, as it will impact your trip.
A smart-casual shoe is ideal, either a smarter trainer or something like a brogue or loafer. Whatever you choose, make sure it is comfy and that it goes with lots of different outfits, so you can save room when you’re packing.
Now, onto the outfits! The best tip we can give you when it comes to dressing for your trip in London is to take dressier daytime outfit options. Generally, people dress up when they go to London, so rather than wearing tracksuits or anything, you should go slightly dressier. This could be a flowy midi dress with smart trainers or maybe jeans with a crop top and one of your favourite womens blazers.
One of the great things about going out in London is that many people will go out to socialise in the daytime and they stay out in the same outfit right into the evening, so you can go smart-casual into the evening in many places. There are a few exceptions, which we will get onto, but generally, you can wear similar outfits all day and night. You may need to wear slightly comfier options when you are sightseeing though!
If you are heading out to the posher areas of London, namely Mayfair, Knightsbridge, Chelsea, Kensington, and Notting Hill, you should be dressing up. This will depend on the venue of course, but for the most part, you can dress to the nines and definitely fit in.
We’re talking about your favourite little black dresses and heels, or at least a shirt, trousers, and shoes. There are some very fancy restaurants, so make sure to do your research, as some places definitely won’t accept casual dress codes, particularly in the posh areas highlighted above.
Last but not least, when you are heading anywhere in the UK, packing waterproof items is a must! You have to have at least an umbrella or waterproof jacket for your trip, as the weather can be unpredictable. One day you might experience a warm sunny day, then the next you will be caught in torrential rain.
So, pack for a few eventualities, with the best way to do this being thin layers. Instead of big bulky jumpers, take thin T-shirts and jumpers that you can layer and easily take off and fit into a small bag if you get too warm!