North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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Ready to pack for North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany? If you're planning to go to North Rhine-Westphalia, here is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

  1. When to go to North Rhine-Westphalia
  2. Important essentials for North Rhine-Westphalia
  3. Activities for North Rhine-Westphalia
  4. North Rhine-Westphalia in January: weather and what to pack
  5. North Rhine-Westphalia in February: weather and what to pack
  6. North Rhine-Westphalia in March: weather and what to pack
  7. North Rhine-Westphalia in April: weather and what to pack
  8. North Rhine-Westphalia in May: weather and what to pack
  9. North Rhine-Westphalia in June: weather and what to pack
  10. North Rhine-Westphalia in July: weather and what to pack
  11. North Rhine-Westphalia in August: weather and what to pack
  12. North Rhine-Westphalia in September: weather and what to pack
  13. North Rhine-Westphalia in October: weather and what to pack
  14. North Rhine-Westphalia in November: weather and what to pack
  15. North Rhine-Westphalia in December: weather and what to pack

When to go to North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany

Based on the climate and weather in North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany, the best time to go is August. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany

Already know when you're traveling?

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

What to wear/what to pack for North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany by month

January

If you visit North Rhine-Westphalia during January, you may find that it is brisk. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 30s F (single digits C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 30s F (single digits C). Humidity is generally between 80 and 90% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain or snow/sleet about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Germany 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 belongings.

  • 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 North Rhine-Westphalia. 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 bags nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: 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 C and F. It's important that you choose the right type. A lot of adapters that you can buy are simply plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for 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 excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

February

If you vacation in North Rhine-Westphalia during February, you may notice that it is pretty cool. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 40s F (single digits C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 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 or snow/sleet 5-10 days this month.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in North Rhine-Westphalia. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Check that you pick the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters available online are simply plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

March

In March, North Rhine-Westphalia is brisk. Temperatures routinely are in the high 40s F (single digits C) range. At night, lows are in the 30s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for North Rhine-Westphalia, with several of the days of the month having rain. In March, humidity reaches as high as 70%.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in North Rhine-Westphalia. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • 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 C and F. Be sure to choose the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters that you can buy are just plugs 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.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

April

April in North Rhine-Westphalia is chilly. Temperatures average in the 50s F (low 10s C) during the day. It rains a bit less than half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in North Rhine-Westphalia. 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 bags these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Money/passport pouch

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

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 C and F. Make sure to choose the right kind. Most adapters currently sold are just plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most places.

  • Travel neck pillow

    A good option 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. Save money with this

May

If you visit North Rhine-Westphalia during May, you will probably notice that it is chilly. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 60s F (high 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 40s F (single digits C). Humidity is generally between 50 and 60% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain regularly.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing things recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: 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 North Rhine-Westphalia. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Make sure to find the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters currently available are just plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most places.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

June

June in North Rhine-Westphalia is mild. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 60s F (mid 10s C) to high 60s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in North Rhine-Westphalia. 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 luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • 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

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be careful to choose the necessary type. The majority of adapters on sale are just plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

July

July in North Rhine-Westphalia is balmy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 60s F (high 10s C) to low 70s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Germany 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 stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in North Rhine-Westphalia. 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

  • 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. Save money with this

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be sure to pick the right kind. The vast majority of adapters currently sold are just plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

August

In August, North Rhine-Westphalia is balmy. Temperatures routinely are in 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 North Rhine-Westphalia, with several of the days of the month having rain. In August, humidity reaches as high as 60%.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in North Rhine-Westphalia. 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 luggage recently, 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

  • 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 pillow

    An excellent option is 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 C and F. Be sure to choose the necessary kind. Many adapters available online are just plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most countries.

September

If you are traveling to North Rhine-Westphalia in September, you will notice that it can be chilly. Expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the 60s F (high 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in North Rhine-Westphalia. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • 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 adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Ensure that you pick the correct type. A lot of adapters currently available are simply plugs 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 countries.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

October

If you go to North Rhine-Westphalia in October, you will notice that it is relatively cool. Expect it to rain regularly. Daytime temperatures are in the high 50s F (mid 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing things 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in North Rhine-Westphalia. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • 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 C and F. Ensure that you find the right type. The vast majority of adapters available online are simply plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most areas.

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

November

November in this region can be very chilly. Temperatures average in the high 40s F (single digits C) during the day. It rains about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing bags recently, 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in North Rhine-Westphalia. 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be sure to pick the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters that you can buy are simply plugs 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.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

December

If you are traveling to North Rhine-Westphalia in December, you will notice that it can be very chilly. Expect it to rain or snow about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the low 40s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in North Rhine-Westphalia. 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.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Take care to pick the correct kind. A lot of adapters currently 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 work in most countries.

  • Travel pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

What to do in North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany

North Rhine-Westphalia, the most populous state in Germany, has no shortage of tourist attractions. From historic castles to stunning natural landscapes, there is something for everybody in this diverse region.

Here are some of the top tourist attractions in North Rhine-Westphalia:

1. Cologne Cathedral - This iconic Gothic cathedral is a must-see for visitors to North Rhine-Westphalia. Construction on the cathedral began in 1248 and it was completed in the late 19th century. It is one of the tallest churches in the world, and its interior is breathtakingly beautiful.

2. Rhine River - The Rhine River runs through North Rhine-Westphalia, and a cruise along the river is a great way to take in the stunning scenery. You can also explore some of the quaint towns and villages along the river, such as Bacharach and Oberwesel.

3. Schloss Drachenburg - This beautiful castle, located in the Siebengebirge hills, was built in the late 19th century for a wealthy businessman. Today, it is open to the public and visitors can explore its ornate interiors and take in the stunning views from its hilltop perch.

4. Movie Park Germany - If you're looking for some family-friendly fun, the Movie Park Germany in Bottrop is a great choice. This theme park is dedicated to all things cinema, with rides and attractions based on popular movies and TV shows.

5. Museum Ludwig - Located in Cologne, the Museum Ludwig is one of the most important modern art museums in Germany. Its collection includes works by artists such as Pablo Picasso, Andy Warhol, and Roy Lichtenstein.

6. Aachen Cathedral - This stunning cathedral, which dates back to the ninth century, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was the coronation church of the Holy Roman Empire and is home to the famous Palatine Chapel.

7. Westfalenpark - This beautiful park in Dortmund is one of the largest urban parks in Germany. It features a rose garden, a Japanese garden, and a large lake where visitors can rent paddle boats.

8. Schloss Benrath - Located in Düsseldorf, this beautiful palace was built in the 18th century for the Elector Palatine. Today, it houses a museum dedicated to the history of the palace and its occupants.

North Rhine-Westphalia is a treasure trove of tourist attractions, and this list is just the beginning. Whether you're interested in history, art, or natural beauty, there is something for everyone to enjoy in this vibrant region.

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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