London, 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 London, England, United Kingdom? If you're planning to go to London, below is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to London, England, United Kingdom

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

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

Already know when you're traveling?

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

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

January

In January, London is pretty cool and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the 40s F (single digits C) range. At night, lows are in the 30s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for London, with several of the days of the month having rain. In January, humidity reaches as high as 80%. There is frost 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.

  • Luggage protection

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit more peace of mind, 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

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

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

Comfort + Essentials
  • 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

  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent option is 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. Ensure that you get the correct kind. The majority of adapters currently available are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most areas.

February

If you vacation in London during February, you may see that it can be brisk and somewhat rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the 40s F (single digits C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 30s F (single digits C). Humidity is generally between 70 and 80% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about a third of the time. There is frost 5-10 days this month.

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.

  • Luggage protection

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

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

  • Room protection door lock

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

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

Comfort + Essentials
  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Be sure to pick the necessary kind. A lot of adapters currently available are just plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

March

In March, London is pretty cool and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the low 50s F (low 10s C) range. At night, lows are in the high 30s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for London, with several of the days of the month having rain. In March, humidity reaches as high as 70%. There is frost 5-10 days this month.

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

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Voice and data SIM card

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

  • 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.

  • Luggage protection

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

Comfort + Essentials
  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Check that you pick the right type. The majority of adapters currently sold are simply plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

April

If you go to London in April, you will notice that it is crisp and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain about a third of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the high 50s F (mid 10s C). There is frost once in a while.

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 luggage recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Room protection door lock

    If going to 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

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

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

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

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Be careful to get the right kind. The majority of adapters currently being sold are just plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

May

May is relatively cool. Temperatures average in the low 60s F (high 10s C) during the day. 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

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

  • 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.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

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

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Make sure to find the correct kind. A lot of adapters currently available are simply plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

June

In June, London is mild and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the high 60s F (low 20s C) and a bit less than half of the time jump into the low 70s F (low 20s C) range. At night, lows are in the high 40s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for London, with several of the days of the month having rain. In June, 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.

  • 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 London. 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel neck support pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Ensure that you find the correct kind. A lot of adapters currently sold are just plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

July

July in London is a perfect temperature. Temperatures average in the low 70s 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Room protection door lock

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

  • Luggage protection

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Check that you find the right type. A lot of adapters available online are simply plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large 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 favorite is this one

August

August in London is balmy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 70s F (low 20s 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 London. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • 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 belongings.

  • 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 repeatedly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. It's important that you choose the right type. The majority of adapters currently sold are simply plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

September

In September, London is balmy. Temperatures routinely are in the high 60s F (high 10s C) and about a third of the time jump into the low 70s F (low 20s C) range. At night, lows are in the high 40s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for London, with a few of the days of the month having rain. In September, 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

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

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Room protection door lock

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

  • Luggage protection

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Be careful to get the right type. Many adapters available are just plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

October

October in London is chilly and somewhat rainy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the 40s F (single digits C), with a few days below 32 F (single digits C). It tends to rain about half of the time. But the colder weather doesn't bring low humidity, which is in the 70% to 80% range on average.

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 always losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

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

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

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

Comfort + Essentials
  • 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

  • Travel pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Make sure to find the right kind. The vast majority of adapters for sale now are simply plugs and expect your devices to adjust 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

November

November in London is brisk and somewhat rainy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the high 30s F (single digits C). It tends to rain about half of the time. But the colder weather doesn't bring low humidity, which is in the 70% to 80% 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • 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 airports frequently losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in London. 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

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Check that you get the correct kind. A lot of adapters available online are simply plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

December

In December, London is cold and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the 40s F (single digits C) range. At night, lows are in the 30s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for London, with several of the days of the month having rain. In December, humidity reaches as high as 90%. There is frost 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Luggage protection

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Voice and data SIM card

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

  • Room protection door lock

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

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Make sure to pick the correct type. Most adapters currently available are simply plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours 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. Save money with this

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave 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

What to do in London, England, United Kingdom

London, the capital city of England and the United Kingdom, is one of the most visited tourist destinations in the world. It is famous for its rich history, vibrant culture, stunning architecture, and myriad of tourist attractions. From world-class museums to iconic landmarks and bustling markets, London offers something for everyone. Here are the top tourist attractions that you must visit on your trip to London.

1. The British Museum: The British Museum is one of the most significant museums in the world, with a vast collection of over eight million artifacts from around the globe. It houses prestigious exhibitions, including the Rosetta Stone, the Parthenon sculptures, and the Egyptian mummies.

2. The Tower of London: The Tower of London is one of the most iconic landmarks in London, famous for its rich history as a royal palace, prison, and place of execution. Visitors can explore the majestic towers, the Crown Jewels, and the ravens that guard the fortress.

3. The London Eye: The London Eye is a giant Ferris wheel on the South Bank of the River Thames that offers stunning panoramic views of the city. It is the world's tallest Ferris wheel, standing at an impressive 135 meters tall.

4. Buckingham Palace: Buckingham Palace is the official residence of the British Royal Family and attracts millions of visitors every year. Visitors can watch the Changing of the Guards ceremony, explore the lavish state rooms, and stroll through the beautiful Royal Gardens.

5. The Tate Modern: The Tate Modern is a renowned contemporary art museum with a vast collection of modern and contemporary artworks from around the world. It houses masterpieces from prominent artists such as Picasso, Warhol, and Hockney.

6. West End Theatres: London's West End is renowned for its vibrant theatre scene, including world-famous shows such as Les Miserables, The Lion King, and Hamilton. Visitors can experience the magic of live theatre in stunning venues such as the Royal Opera House, the National Theatre, and the Globe Theatre.

7. The Natural History Museum: The Natural History Museum is a fascinating museum that explores the world of science and nature. It features an extensive collection of dinosaurs, extinct creatures, and interactive exhibits that educate visitors on the natural world.

8. The Houses of Parliament and Big Ben: The Houses of Parliament is one of the most recognizable buildings in London and home to the UK's government. Visitors can tour the historic building and marvel at the iconic Big Ben clock tower that adorns its facade.

9. Covent Garden: Covent Garden is a bustling market and entertainment district famous for its street performers, boutique shops, and international cuisine. Visitors can enjoy live music and browse the unique crafts and artisanal products on offer.

10. Hyde Park: Hyde Park is one of London's most beautiful parks, covering over 350 acres of green space. Visitors can relax by the Serpentine Lake, take a stroll through the gardens, or enjoy a picnic on one of the many lawns.

In conclusion, London is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to explore culture, history, and entertainment. With so many tourist attractions to explore, visitors can never get enough of London's vibrant energy and endless possibilities.

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: West Fork, Arkansas, United States of America, Ubud, Indonesia, Putao, Myanmar, Demir Kapija, Macedonia, Goleta, California, United States of America, Port Ghalib, Egypt, Gandikota, India, Buckfastleigh, England, United Kingdom, Kurdistan, Iran, Landes, France, and Traben-Trarbach, Germany.