Berkeley, California, United States of America: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

Empty Lighthouse is a reader-supported site. This article may contain affiliate links to Amazon and other sites. We earn a commission on purchases made through these links.

Ready to pack for Berkeley, California, United States of America? If you're planning to go to Berkeley, I have some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Berkeley, California, United States of America

Based on the climate and weather in Berkeley, California, United States of America, the best time to go is July. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Berkeley, California, United States of America

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Berkeley, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Berkeley, California, United States of America by month

January

January in Berkeley can be chilly. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 40s F (single digits C) to 50s F (low 10s C), although night temperatures can dip into the low 30s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For added protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Berkeley. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you get the correct type. The vast majority of adapters currently being sold are just plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you go to Berkeley Rose Garden, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

February

In February, Berkeley is chilly. Temperatures routinely are in the high 50s F (mid 10s C) range. At night, lows are in the 40s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for Berkeley, with several of the days of the month having rain.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit more protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Berkeley. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to choose the correct type. The majority of adapters for sale now are simply plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

If you go to Berkeley Rose Garden, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

March

March in Berkeley is relatively cool. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the 40s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Berkeley. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing bags these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For additional peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to pick the correct type. A lot of adapters currently sold are just plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most places.

  • Travel pillow

    What we like is this one

If you go to Berkeley Rose Garden, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

April

April in Berkeley is crisp. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 60s F (high 10s C), although night temperatures can dip into the low 40s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • Room protection door lock

    If going to a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For some more peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Berkeley. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you find the right kind. Most adapters currently sold are just plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

If you go to Berkeley Rose Garden, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

May

Traveling to Berkeley in May, you will notice that it is mild and dry with little rain. Daytime temperatures are in the high 60s F (high 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For added protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Berkeley. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing bags these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you pick the right kind. Most adapters on sale are just plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most locations.

If you go to Berkeley Rose Garden, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

June

Traveling to Berkeley in June, you will notice that it is balmy and very dry with almost no rain. Daytime temperatures are in the low 60s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Berkeley. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing things these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For some more protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to choose the right kind. Many adapters available online are simply plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you go to Berkeley Rose Garden, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

July

July for Berkeley is balmy and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures average in the low 70s F (low 20s C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For some more protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Berkeley. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing things recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to pick the necessary type. The majority of adapters for sale now are simply plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

If you go to Berkeley Rose Garden, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

August

Traveling to Berkeley in August, you will notice that it is mild and very dry with almost no rain. Daytime temperatures are in the low 70s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit more protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Berkeley. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you choose the necessary kind. Many adapters available online are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you go to Berkeley Rose Garden, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

September

If you vacation in Berkeley during September, you will probably see that it is mild and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 70s F (low 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 50s F (low 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Berkeley. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For added peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing luggage recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to get the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters available are just plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

  • Travel neck pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you go to Berkeley Rose Garden, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

October

If you are traveling to Berkeley in October, you will notice that it is balmy and dry with little rain. Expect it to rain occasionally. Daytime temperatures are in the low 60s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For added protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Berkeley. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to find the necessary kind. Many adapters currently sold are just plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most locations.

  • Travel pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

If you go to Berkeley Rose Garden, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

November

November in Berkeley is crisp. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 60s F (high 10s C), although night temperatures can dip into the low 40s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit more protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Room protection door lock

    If going to a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Berkeley. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing bags these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to get the necessary kind. Many adapters available online are simply plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

If you go to Berkeley Rose Garden, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

December

December in Berkeley is crisp. Temperatures average in the high 50s F (mid 10s C) during the day. It rains 5-10 days this month.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For additional peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Berkeley. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing bags recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to find the right type. Many adapters currently available are simply plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

If you go to Berkeley Rose Garden, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

What to do in Berkeley, California, United States of America

Berkeley, California is a vibrant and culturally-rich city that offers visitors a variety of unique experiences. From historical landmarks to outdoor adventures, there is something for everyone in this charming college town. Here are the top tourist attractions in Berkeley, California.

1. The University of California, Berkeley: Founded in 1868, the University of California, Berkeley is one of the most prestigious universities in the world. Take a campus tour and visit the iconic Campanile Tower and the Hearst Museum of Anthropology. Visitors can also catch a Cal Bears football game or take in a show at the Zellerbach Hall.

2. Berkeley Marina: The Berkeley Marina is a beautiful place to spend an afternoon. With stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge and San Francisco Bay, the marina offers visitors a chance to rent boats, fish, or just relax in the sun.

3. Berkeley Art Museum and Pacific Film Archive: Located on the campus of the University of California, Berkeley, the Berkeley Art Museum and Pacific Film Archive is a must-see for art lovers. The museum features works by Bay Area artists, as well as major exhibitions from around the world.

4. Tilden Regional Park: Tilden Regional Park is one of the most popular parks in the East Bay. Visitors can enjoy hiking, picnicking, and swimming in Lake Anza. The park also has a botanical garden and a steam train that takes visitors on a scenic ride through the park.

5. Telegraph Avenue: Telegraph Avenue is a vibrant street lined with shops, restaurants, and street performers. It is a great place to people-watch and soak up the lively atmosphere of Berkeley.

6. Lawrence Hall of Science: The Lawrence Hall of Science is a science museum located on the campus of the University of California, Berkeley. Visitors can explore exhibits on subjects such as astronomy, marine biology, and climate change.

7. Berkeley Rose Garden: The Berkeley Rose Garden is a beautiful and fragrant spot in the hills of Berkeley. Visitors can enjoy stunning views of the San Francisco Bay while walking through the garden's 3,000 rose bushes.

8. The Fourth Street Shopping District: The Fourth Street Shopping District is a trendy and upscale shopping area in Berkeley. Visitors can browse boutiques, galleries, and specialty shops, or enjoy a meal in one of the district's many restaurants.

Berkeley, California is a city full of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you are a student, a visitor, or a lifelong resident, there is always something new to discover in this dynamic and welcoming community.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

Check out our guides for these other locations: Castle Rock, Colorado, United States of America, Northfield, Illinois, United States of America, Singapore, Singapore, Teresópolis, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, High Plains, Texas, United States of America, Erechim, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, Khustain Nuruu National Park, Mongolia, Løkken, Denmark, Bay St.

Louis, Mississippi, United States of America, Hongcun, China, and Takamatsu, Japan.