Charleston, South Carolina, United States of America: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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Ready to pack for Charleston, South Carolina, United States of America? If you're planning to go to Charleston, below is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Charleston, South Carolina, United States of America

Based on the climate and weather in Charleston, South Carolina, United States of America, the best time to go is May. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Charleston, South Carolina, United States of America

Already know when you're traveling?

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

What to wear/what to pack for Charleston, South Carolina, United States of America by month

January

Traveling to Charleston in January, you will notice that it is chilly. Expect it to rain about a third of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the high 50s F (mid 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security
  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Charleston. 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing things recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel neck pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you choose the right kind. Many adapters available are just plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you want to see the lovely Circular Congregational Church, it's recommended to wear modest clothing:

If you go to The Battery and White Point Gardens, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

February

February in Charleston is cool. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 40s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security
  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing things recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • 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

  • Travel neck pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • 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 type. Most adapters currently being sold are simply plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most places.

If you want to see the lovely Circular Congregational Church, it's recommended to wear modest clothing:

If you go to The Battery and White Point Gardens, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

March

March in Charleston is cool. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 50s F (mid 10s C) to 60s F (high 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 a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you locate 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 Charleston. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to pick the correct type. Many adapters on sale are simply plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you want to see the lovely Circular Congregational Church, it's recommended to wear modest clothing:

If you go to The Battery and White Point Gardens, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

April

April for Charleston is balmy. Temperatures average in the low 70s F (low 20s C) during the day. It rains regularly.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security
  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing luggage these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

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

Comfort + Essentials
  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to pick the necessary kind. The majority of adapters that you can buy are simply plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

If you want to see the lovely Circular Congregational Church, it's recommended to wear modest clothing:

If you go to The Battery and White Point Gardens, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

May

Traveling to Charleston in May, you will notice that it is warm. Expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the high 70s F (mid 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

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

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel neck support pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to find the correct type. The majority of adapters available are simply 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 be sufficient for most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you want to see the lovely Circular Congregational Church, it's recommended to wear modest clothing:

If you go to The Battery and White Point Gardens, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

June

If you go to Charleston in June, you will notice that it is hot. Expect it to rain regularly. Daytime temperatures are in the 80s F (high 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security
  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing things these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Charleston. 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
  • 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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to get the necessary type. Many adapters that you can buy are simply plug changers and expect 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.

If you want to see the lovely Circular Congregational Church, it's recommended to wear modest clothing:

If you go to The Battery and White Point Gardens, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

July

July in Charleston can be very hot. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 80s F (high 20s C) to high 80s F (low 30s 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing luggage these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

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

  • Travel pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to find the necessary type. The majority of adapters available are simply plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most places.

If you want to see the lovely Circular Congregational Church, it's recommended to wear modest clothing:

If you go to The Battery and White Point Gardens, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

August

August for Charleston is constantly hot. Temperatures average in the 80s F (low 30s C) during the day. It rains regularly.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security
  • Voice and data SIM card

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing bags nowadays, 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
  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to get the necessary type. A lot of adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most places.

If you want to see the lovely Circular Congregational Church, it's recommended to wear modest clothing:

If you go to The Battery and White Point Gardens, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

September

September is extremely warm. Temperatures average in the low 80s F (high 20s C) during the day. It rains regularly.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security
  • Anti-theft backpack

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

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you choose the correct type. The majority of adapters currently available are simply plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our favorite is this one

If you want to see the lovely Circular Congregational Church, it's recommended to wear modest clothing:

If you go to The Battery and White Point Gardens, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

October

Traveling to Charleston in October, you will notice that it is balmy. Expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the low 70s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security
  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Charleston. 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

Comfort + Essentials
  • 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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you find the necessary type. The majority of adapters available are just plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most countries.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A good option is this one

If you want to see the lovely Circular Congregational Church, it's recommended to wear modest clothing:

If you go to The Battery and White Point Gardens, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

November

November in Charleston is balmy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 50s 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 Charleston. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you choose the correct kind. A lot of adapters available online are simply plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

If you want to see the lovely Circular Congregational Church, it's recommended to wear modest clothing:

If you go to The Battery and White Point Gardens, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

December

December is chilly. Temperatures average in the high 50s F (mid 10s C) during the day. It rains regularly.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security
  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing luggage recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Charleston. 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

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

  • Travel neck support pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to choose the correct kind. Most adapters for sale now are simply plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

If you want to see the lovely Circular Congregational Church, it's recommended to wear modest clothing:

If you go to The Battery and White Point Gardens, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

What to do in Charleston, South Carolina, United States of America

Charleston, South Carolina is a city full of history, charm, and unique southern culture. With its cobblestone streets, colorful homes, and stunning waterfront views, it’s no wonder that Charleston is consistently ranked as one of the top tourist destinations in the United States.

Here are some of the top tourist attractions that Charleston has to offer:

1. The Historic District – The Historic District of Charleston is full of beautiful old homes, iconic landmarks, and stunning gardens. Take a walking tour or carriage ride through the district to see some of the most impressive sights, such as Rainbow Row, the Battery, and the famous Pineapple Fountain.

2. Fort Sumter National Monument – Fort Sumter is the site where the Civil War began, and it is a must-visit for anyone interested in American history. Take a ferry ride to the island and explore the fort itself, as well as the museum and exhibits.

3. The Charleston City Market – The City Market is a bustling outdoor shopping area that dates back to 1804. It’s the perfect place to browse for souvenirs, artisanal goods, and local foods. Be sure to stop at the Sweetgrass Basket Pavilion to see the traditional Gullah basket weavers in action.

4. The Magnolia Plantation and Gardens – For a taste of South Carolina’s natural beauty, head to the Magnolia Plantation and Gardens. This sprawling estate features stunning gardens (including the oldest public garden in the country), a petting zoo, and a nature train tour.

5. The South Carolina Aquarium – The South Carolina Aquarium is home to over 5,000 animals, from otters to sharks. Kids (and adults) will love exploring the interactive exhibits, getting up close to sea turtles, and watching the daily dive shows.

6. The Gibbes Museum of Art – The Gibbes Museum is one of the oldest art museums in the country, and it showcases a wide range of American artwork, especially from the South. The museum also hosts regular exhibits, events, and classes.

7. The Nathaniel Russell House Museum – The Nathaniel Russell House is a stunning example of neoclassical architecture that dates back to 1808. Visit the museum to see the original furnishings, elegant gardens, and learn about the fascinating history of the Russell family.

8. Shem Creek – For a taste of Charleston’s waterfront culture, head to Shem Creek. This vibrant port area is home to countless seafood restaurants, boating tours, and even stand-up paddleboarding rentals.

Charleston has so much to offer visitors that it’s impossible to see everything in just one trip. But no matter what your interests, there’s something magical about this city that will keep you coming back again and again.

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.

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