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

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

Contents

When to go to Portland, Oregon, United States of America

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

What to wear/what to pack for Portland, Oregon, United States of America

Already know when you're traveling?

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

What to wear/what to pack for Portland, Oregon, United States of America by month

January

January in Portland is pretty cool. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the 30s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing bags 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 Portland. 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

  • Travel neck support pillow

    What we like is this one

  • 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

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to choose the necessary kind. A lot of adapters that you can buy are just plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most locations.

If you go to Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

February

Traveling to Portland in February, you will notice that it can be very chilly. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the low 50s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing bags 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 Portland. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • Room protection door lock

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support 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 A and B. Be sure to get the right kind. Most adapters currently being sold 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 is sufficent for most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

If you go to Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

March

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

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

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

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 A and B. It's important that you choose the necessary type. Many adapters available are simply plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most countries.

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

If you go to Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

April

April in Portland is chilly. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 60s F (mid 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • 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 Portland. 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 prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you pick the correct kind. Many adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most places.

  • Travel neck pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you go to Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

May

If you vacation in Portland during May, you are likely to see that it is mild. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 60s F (low 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 40s F (single digits C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain regularly.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • Room protection door lock

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing things these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: 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 Portland. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • 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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to get the necessary kind. The majority of adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most locations.

If you go to Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

June

June in Portland 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

  • Room protection door lock

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

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Portland. 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 excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to find the right type. Most adapters for sale now are just plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you go to Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

July

If you go to Portland in July, you will notice that it is warm and dry with little rain. 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

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Portland. 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 things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Room protection door lock

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you choose the right type. The majority of adapters currently sold are just plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

  • 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

  • Travel pillow

    Our favorite is this one

If you go to Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

August

August in this region is a perfect temperature and dry with little rain. Temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day. It rains once in a while.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Room protection door lock

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

  • 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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to find the necessary type. Most adapters currently available are just plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most areas.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

If you go to Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

September

If you visit Portland during September, you may notice that it is a perfect temperature. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 70s F (low 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 50s F (low 10s C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Portland. 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 your room with a portable door lock.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges 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. Ensure that you pick the right kind. The vast majority of adapters available online are just plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you go to Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

October

In October, Portland is cool. Temperatures routinely are in the low 60s F (high 10s C) range. At night, lows are in the high 40s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for Portland, with several of the days of the month having rain.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing luggage recently, 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

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you get the right kind. Most adapters currently available are just plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you go to Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

November

November in Portland can be very chilly. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 40s F (single digits C), with a few days below 32 F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Room protection door lock

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Portland. 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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you get the necessary kind. Most adapters currently being sold 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 areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you go to Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

December

In December, Portland can be brisk. Temperatures routinely are in the 40s F (single digits C) range. At night, lows are in the high 30s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for Portland, with more than half of the days of the month having rain.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Room protection door lock

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

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Portland. 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 amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to get the right kind. Many adapters available are just plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you go to Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:

What to do in Portland, Oregon, United States of America

Located in the Pacific Northwest, Portland, Oregon boasts stunning natural landscapes, a thriving art and music scene, and a multitude of exciting tourist attractions. From its iconic foodie culture to its outdoor adventures, Portland has something for everyone. Here are some top tourist attractions in Portland, Oregon that you shouldn't miss.

1. Powell’s City of Books – This massive independent bookstore takes up an entire city block and is the largest used and new bookstore in the world. With over 1 million books, Powell’s is a book-lover's paradise and a must-see when in Portland.

2. Portland Japanese Garden – This peaceful oasis in the heart of Portland is a breathtakingly beautiful Japanese garden that spans 5.5 acres. Visitors can explore five distinct garden styles, water features, and a traditional Japanese teahouse.

3. The Rose Garden – The International Rose Test Garden in Portland contains more than 10,000 rose bushes of 650 varieties which bloom from May to September. The garden has an incredible view of downtown Portland.

4. The Pearl District – Located in Downtown Portland, the Pearl District is a bustling neighborhood filled with art galleries, boutique shops, and cozy restaurants. It’s the perfect place for a relaxing afternoon stroll.

5. Portland Art Museum – One of the oldest museums on the West Coast, the Portland Art Museum has a collection of over 50,000 works of art from around the world, from ancient to contemporary.

6. Waterfront Park – This sprawling park is located along the Willamette River and hosts several annual events like the famous Portland Rose Festival. You can take a relaxing walk, bike or rollerblade along the river.

7. Oregon Museum of Science and Industry – OMSI is an interactive science museum that’s great for both adults and children. Explore different science exhibits, a planetarium, and an OMNIMAX theater.

8. Multnomah Falls – Just 30 minutes outside of Portland, Multnomah Falls is a beautiful, 611-foot-tall waterfall that is the crown jewel of the Columbia River Gorge. You can hike to the top of the falls through picturesque scenery.

9. Voodoo Doughnut – Portland’s most famous doughnut shop, Voodoo Doughnut, has become a must-see destination for tourists. Enjoy sweet and delicious doughnuts with unique toppings and shapes.

10. Pittock Mansion – This historic mansion was built in 1914 for a prominent family in Portland. Visitors can take a guided tour of the mansion and learn about its fascinating history.

With so much to see and do in Portland, Oregon, it's a great destination to plan your next vacation. These top tourist attractions in Portland are just the tip of the iceberg, so pack your bags and explore all that the city has to offer.

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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