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

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Ready to pack for Portsmouth, Maine, United States of America? If you're planning to go to Portsmouth, the following is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Portsmouth, Maine, United States of America

Based on the climate and weather in Portsmouth, Maine, United States of America, the best time to go is August. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Portsmouth, Maine, United States of America

Already know when you're traveling?

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

What to wear/what to pack for Portsmouth, Maine, United States of America by month

January

January can be extremely cold, snowy, somewhat rainy and somewhat stormy. Temperatures average in the low 30s F (single digits below 0 C) during the day. It rains about a third of the time and snows sometimes.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Portsmouth. 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 stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing bags 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you choose the correct type. The vast majority of adapters for sale now are simply plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you see the Strawbery Banke Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

February

Traveling to Portsmouth in February, you will notice that it is freezing, snowy, somewhat rainy and somewhat stormy. Expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time and snow occasionally. Daytime temperatures are in the 30s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • Voice and data SIM card

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

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • 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

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you get the correct type. The vast majority of adapters that you can buy are just plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most places.

If you see the Strawbery Banke Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

March

March can be brisk, snowy, somewhat rainy and somewhat stormy. Temperatures average in the low 40s F (single digits C) during the day. It rains regularly and snows occasionally.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Portsmouth. 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 recently, 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to pick the necessary type. Many adapters on sale are simply plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most places.

  • 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

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

If you see the Strawbery Banke Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

April

April in Portsmouth can be brisk, somewhat rainy and somewhat stormy. Temperatures average in the 50s F (low 10s C) during the day. It rains regularly.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Portsmouth. 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 large penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you get the right type. Most adapters currently sold are just plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you see the Strawbery Banke Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

May

In May, Portsmouth is chilly, somewhat rainy and somewhat stormy. Temperatures routinely are in the 60s F (high 10s C) and about a third of the time jump into the low 80s F (high 20s C) range. At night, lows are in the high 40s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for Portsmouth, with several of the days of the month having rain. In May, humidity reaches as high as 60%.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing bags 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 Portsmouth. 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 stuff.

  • 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 penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to get the right type. Many adapters currently sold are just plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you see the Strawbery Banke Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

June

June is a perfect temperature, somewhat rainy and somewhat stormy. Temperatures average in the 70s F (mid 20s 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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Portsmouth. 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 huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you get the right type. The majority of adapters currently available are just plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most locations.

If you see the Strawbery Banke Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

July

In July, Portsmouth is warm, somewhat rainy and somewhat stormy. Temperatures routinely are in the low 70s F (high 20s C) and about half of the time jump into the low 80s F (high 20s C) range. At night, lows are in the low 60s F (mid 10s C). This is also a rainy time for Portsmouth, with several of the days of the month having rain. In July, humidity reaches as high as 60%.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing luggage these days, 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.

  • 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 Portsmouth. 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

  • Travel neck pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to choose the correct type. The majority of adapters on sale 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 is sufficent for most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

If you see the Strawbery Banke Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

August

If you vacation in Portsmouth during August, you may notice that it is a perfect temperature, somewhat rainy and somewhat stormy. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 60s F (mid 10s C). Humidity is generally between 60 and 70% 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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can locate 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 Portsmouth. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our favorite 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

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to pick the necessary kind. The majority of adapters available online are simply 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 locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

If you see the Strawbery Banke Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

September

If you vacation in Portsmouth during September, you might see that it is mild and somewhat stormy. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 70s F (low 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 50s F (low 10s C). Humidity is generally between 50 and 60% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain 5-10 days this month.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

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

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

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 penalties with this

  • Travel pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to find the right kind. The majority 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 should be sufficient for most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you see the Strawbery Banke Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

October

October in Portsmouth is chilly and somewhat stormy. 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). It tends to rain 5-10 days this month. But the colder weather doesn't bring low humidity, which is in the 50% to 60% range on average.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • Voice and data SIM card

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

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to choose the correct kind. The majority of adapters currently being sold are just plug changers and require your electronics to adjust 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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

If you see the Strawbery Banke Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

November

November in Portsmouth is pretty cool, somewhat rainy and somewhat stormy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 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

  • 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 Portsmouth. 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 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

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to find the correct type. Many adapters available online are simply plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most areas.

If you see the Strawbery Banke Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

December

December is frigid, snowy, somewhat rainy and somewhat stormy. Temperatures average in the 30s F (single digits C) during the day. It rains about a third of the time and snows sometimes.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Portsmouth. 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 nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, 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

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to choose the correct type. Many adapters available online 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 countries.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great 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

If you see the Strawbery Banke Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

What to do in Portsmouth, Maine, United States of America

Portsmouth is a charming coastal city located in Rockingham County, New Hampshire, just across the border from Maine. The city is steeped in history that dates back to the early colonial times, and its rich past is reflected in the many historical landmarks and cultural attractions that dot the cityscape. There are also plenty of outdoor activities and natural wonders to explore in the area. Here are the top tourist attractions to visit in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, and the surrounding Maine area.

Strawbery Banke Museum

Strawbery Banke Museum is a 10-acre outdoor museum located in the heart of Portsmouth. The museum is a living history museum that explores the daily lives of residents who lived in the Portsmouth area between the late 1600s and the mid-1900s. Strawbery Banke features over 40 historic buildings and 10 acres of beautifully maintained gardens that are open year-round. Visitors can learn about the city's history by exploring the houses, storefronts, and gardens.

USS Albacore Museum and Park

The USS Albacore Museum and Park features the USS Albacore, a retired United States Navy submarine that was used as a test vehicle during the Cold War. Visitors can explore the submarine and learn about the history of underwater technology. The park also has picnic areas and a walking trail that offers views of Portsmouth Harbor.

Prescott Park

Prescott Park is a public park located on the east side of the Piscataqua River in Portsmouth. The park features beautifully maintained gardens, open grassy spaces, and wide walkways that lead to the waterfront. During the summer, the park hosts outdoor concerts, theater performances, and festivals.

Portsmouth Harbor Lighthouse

The Portsmouth Harbor Lighthouse is a historic lighthouse that has been in operation since 1877. The lighthouse is located on the eastern side of the harbor entrance and is open for tours during the summer season. Visitors can climb to the top of the lighthouse and enjoy stunning views of the harbor.

Wentworth-Coolidge Mansion

The Wentworth-Coolidge Mansion is a historic mansion that dates back to the mid-1700s. The mansion was used as the governor's residence for the state of New Hampshire during the late 1700s and early 1800s. Today, visitors can explore the mansion's many rooms and learn about the history of the mansion and the state.

Kittery Outlets

Located just across the border in Kittery, Maine, the Kittery Outlets are a popular shopping destination for tourists and locals alike. The Outlets feature over 120 stores, including designer brands like Michael Kors, Coach, and Calvin Klein.

York's Wild Kingdom

York's Wild Kingdom is a popular family-friendly attraction located just a short drive from Portsmouth. The park features a zoo that houses over 50 species of animals, including lions, tigers, monkeys, and more. In addition to the zoo, the park also has an amusement park with rides and an arcade.

There is plenty to see and do in Portsmouth and the surrounding area. From historical landmarks to outdoor activities, there's something for everyone in this charming coastal city.

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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