Essex, England, United Kingdom: 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 Essex, England, United Kingdom? If you're planning to go to Essex, we have some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Essex, England, United Kingdom

Based on the climate and weather in Essex, England, United Kingdom, the best time to go is August. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Essex, England, United Kingdom

Already know when you're traveling?

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

What to wear/what to pack for Essex, England, United Kingdom by month

January

January in Essex is brisk and somewhat rainy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the 30s F (single digits C). It tends to rain about a third of the time. But the colder weather doesn't bring low humidity, which is in the 80% to 90% range on average. There is frost a bit less than half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, United Kingdom has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: 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 Essex. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

Comfort + Essentials
  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Be careful to get the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters for sale now are just plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

February

February in Essex is cold. The rain/snow can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 40s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, United Kingdom has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Essex. 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 things.

  • 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 G. It's important that you find the necessary type. A lot of adapters that you can buy are just plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most locations.

  • 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. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    A great choice is this one

March

Traveling to Essex in March, you will notice that it can be very chilly, somewhat rainy and somewhat hazy. Expect it to rain about a third of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the low 50s F (low 10s C). There is frost a bit less than half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, United Kingdom has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Essex. 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 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

Comfort + Essentials
  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Be careful to get the right kind. The majority of adapters available online are simply plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

April

April in Essex is chilly, somewhat rainy and somewhat hazy. Temperatures average in the 50s F (mid 10s C) during the day. There is frost sometimes. It rains about a third of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, United Kingdom has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Essex. 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
  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave 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. 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 G. Ensure that you choose the right type. Many adapters available are just plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most countries.

May

In May, Essex is relatively cool and somewhat hazy. Temperatures routinely are in the low 60s F (high 10s C) and about half of the time jump into the low 60s F (mid 10s C) range. At night, lows are in the 40s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for Essex, with a few of the days of the month having rain. In May, humidity reaches as high as 70%.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, United Kingdom has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Essex. 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 peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • 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 G. Take care to find the necessary type. Most adapters available online are just plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

June

June here is mild and somewhat hazy. Temperatures average in the high 60s F (low 20s C) during the day. It rains about a third of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, United Kingdom has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

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

Comfort + Essentials
  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • 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 adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. It's important that you find the right kind. Many adapters that you can buy are just plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

July

In July, Essex is a perfect temperature and somewhat hazy. Temperatures routinely are in the low 70s F (low 20s C) and about half of the time jump into the low 70s F (low 20s C) range. At night, lows are in the 50s F (low 10s C). This is also a rainy time for Essex, with a few of the days of the month having rain. In July, humidity reaches as high as 70%.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, United Kingdom has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

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

Comfort + Essentials
  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Take care to get the correct kind. Most adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most places.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

August

In August, Essex is balmy and somewhat hazy. Temperatures routinely are in the low 70s F (low 20s C) range. At night, lows are in the low 50s F (low 10s C). This is also a rainy time for Essex, with a few of the days of the month having rain. In August, humidity reaches as high as 70%.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, United Kingdom has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Essex. 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 huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Make sure to get the correct type. Most adapters for sale now are just plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

September

September in Essex is balmy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 60s F (high 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, United Kingdom has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Take care to get the necessary type. Many adapters available online are just plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices 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

    Our fave is this one

October

October in this region is cool, somewhat rainy and somewhat hazy. Temperatures average in the high 50s F (mid 10s C) during the day. It rains about a third of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, United Kingdom has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Essex. 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
  • Travel pillow

    What we like 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

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Make sure to pick the right kind. Many adapters for sale now 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 be appropriate for most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

November

November is brisk and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the low 50s F (low 10s C) during the day. There is frost occasionally. It rains regularly.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, United Kingdom has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • 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 stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

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

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Be sure to pick the correct kind. The majority of adapters available online are just plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

December

December in Essex is pretty cool and somewhat rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 40s F (single digits C) to 40s F (single digits 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

    Given current world events, United Kingdom has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Essex. 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 stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you find 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
  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Ensure that you get the right type. A lot of adapters available are just plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most areas.

What to do in Essex, England, United Kingdom

Essex, one of the southern counties in England, is a place that should be at the top of your travel list if you're a lover of nature, history, and culture. This county is home to a variety of attractions that cater to different interests.

Here are some top tourist attractions in Essex (England) that you shouldn't miss out on:

1. Colchester Castle Museum - Colchester Castle Museum, located in the heart of the town of Colchester, is a must-visit attraction for history enthusiasts. The museum is housed within the ruins of Colchester's Roman Castle, which dates back to 54 AD. The museum showcases the history of this castle, its use as a royal residence, and its significance in the development of the town.

2. Southend-on-Sea - Southend-on-Sea, known as the Sunshine Coast, is a popular seaside town in Essex. Located on the Thames Estuary, it has a long sandy beach, a fun pier, and a lively promenade. It's an ideal place for family days out, with many attractions such as Adventure Island, Sea Life Adventure, and the Southend Pier Museum.

3. Audley End House and Gardens - Audley End House and Gardens is a stunning Jacobean mansion that has been beautifully restored to its former glory. The house is one of the finest country houses in England and is set in over 100 acres of stunning gardens and parkland.

4. Essex Wildlife Trust Nature Reserves - Essex is home to over 50 nature reserves managed by the Essex Wildlife Trust. These reserves, which include ancient woodlands, wildflower meadows, and wetlands, are great places to spot rare and endangered wildlife. Popular reserves include Epping Forest, Danbury Common, and Abberton Reservoir.

5. Beth Chatto Gardens - The Beth Chatto Gardens is a beautiful garden located in Colchester that showcases a wide variety of plants in a range of habitats. The garden is divided into different zones, including woodland, gravel, and water. It features a range of unusual plants, and there are regular tours and events.

6. Hedingham Castle - Hedingham Castle is a stunning Norman castle located in the village of Castle Hedingham. It dates back to the 12th century and is one of the best-preserved medieval castles in England. Visitors can tour the castle, explore the gardens, and enjoy a range of events throughout the year.

7. Hylands House and Estate - Hylands House and Estate is a beautiful stately home located just outside Chelmsford. The house was built in the 18th century and boasts stunning architecture and breathtaking views of the grounds. Visitors can explore the house and gardens, which include a walled garden, lake, and ancient woodlands.

8. Mersea Island - Mersea Island is a small island off the coast of Essex and is a popular destination for holiday-makers. It's a great place for outdoor activities such as walking, cycling, and windsurfing. The island is also home to several seafood restaurants and an oyster farm.

So there you have it, some of the top tourist attractions in Essex (England), United Kingdom. Whether you're a lover of nature, history, or culture, there's something for everyone in this beautiful county.

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: Arona, Italy, Longyou County, China, Franklin, North Carolina, United States of America, Bayahibe, Dominican Republic, Ludwigshafen, Germany, Cotignac, France, Saint-Gervais-les-Bains, France, Land's End, England, United Kingdom, Redmond, Oregon, United States of America, Bømlo, Norway, and Todmorden, England, United Kingdom.