How to Pack for Any Weather

Packing can be tricky. I usually need a large packing list to check over and over again before zipping up my suitcase and calling it a day. Add in locations that get a lot of rain and/or have uncertain weather, and packing gets a whole lot harder. Luckily, I’m here today to give you a few tips and tricks to help you pack for any weather.

Be Prepared for Weather of Any Temperature

While you (hopefully) generally have an idea of what the weather will be like at your destination, it’s important to remember that weather patterns change frequently. And when it can be unusually hot in the daytime, it can still get pretty chilly at night. So, how can you prepare for this in your packing? If you think you may need a jacket on your trip (though it may be warm when you board the plane out), wear the jacket as you travel to your destination. It’s too big to pack. Know that it’s usually pretty chilly on a plane, so wear it on the plane, and then, you can put it by your feet if you don’t need it. And once you get to your hotel, you can put it in the hotel and leave it there if it never gets too chilly- but it’s always a good idea to have it. It’s an added bonus if it also happens to be a waterproof jacket.

Next, layers will be your best friend. Layers are the number 1 way to pack for any type of weather- because one outfit can work in the heat and in the cold if styled correctly. Make sure most of your base clothes are tanks and tees. From there, you can layer a fancy shirt, a sweater, a cardigan, or your jacket over top of this tank or tee. And you’re set. You can wear a t-shirt in the daytime and carry a sweater around your waist or in your purse that you can easily put on as you move destinations in the evening as the cooler weather emerges. Plus, there are tons of cute options you can layer over each other, so you can still be stylish.

It’s harder to do this with your legs, but jeans or leggings both work even when it can be on the warmer side. I’d hold off on wearing shorts if you get chilly easily unless you’re at a beach or right by your hotel so you can easily change out your pants.

If you have a big enough coat with zip pockets, have an ear band or hat and gloves permanently stored away in the pockets so you’re ready when it’s cold. Of course, if you’re going somewhere where it stays above 70 degrees even at night, then I don’t think the coat and winter supplies will be necessary. Though, I would pack a sweater or two or a sweatshirt just in case. Even in the summer, certain restaurants can be cold.

Be Prepared for Rain

Rain is never something we want on a trip, but whether we’re in a tropical place in the middle of the summer or in Europe in the cooler months, it can quickly and unexpectedly show up. So, bring a thin waterproof jacket or a winter jacket that is waterproof depending on the destination. In the cold weather, just having a waterproof winter jacket will do wonders for you, as you’ll never really have to worry about the rain. And make sure it has a hood! If you’re going to Southeast Asia, Florida, or any other tropical location in the summer, sudden showers can come forth quickly in the hot weather. Be sure to have a very light, flimsy waterproof jacket on hand so you are prepared.

Universally Great Shoes

Finally, you want shoes that can work wonders for you in just about any weather. Believe it or not, those old waiter shoes you used to wear are perfect. Get a cute pair, as they are great for you being on the move, they are meant to be comfortable, and they are usually water/slip proof, so you’ll be at least mildly protected when the rain inevitably comes.

Enjoy your travels to the far areas of the globe! And if you take one thing away from this, remember to pack layers!