San Francisco, California, United States of America: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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

Contents

When to go to San Francisco, California, United States of America

Based on the climate and weather in San Francisco, California, United States of America, the best time to go is September. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for San Francisco, California, United States of America

Already know when you're traveling?

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

What to wear/what to pack for San Francisco, California, United States of America by month

January

If you visit San Francisco during January, you are likely to find that it is relatively cool and somewhat rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 50s F (mid 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 40s F (single digits 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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in San Francisco. 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.

  • Room protection door lock

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

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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to get the correct kind. A lot of adapters available online are just plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most countries.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

February

February in San Francisco is crisp and somewhat rainy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the high 40s F (single digits C). It tends to rain regularly. But the colder weather doesn't bring low humidity, which is in the 60% to 70% range on average.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • Room protection door lock

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing bags recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • 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 San Francisco. 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 large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you get the right type. The majority of adapters that you can buy are simply plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

March

In March, San Francisco is crisp and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the low 60s F (mid 10s C) and sometimes 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 San Francisco, 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

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For additional protection, 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in San Francisco. 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.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to pick the correct type. Many adapters currently sold are just plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics 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

  • Travel pillow

    Our favorite 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

April

April for San Francisco is chilly. Temperatures average in the low 60s F (high 10s C) during the day. It rains once in a while.

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 San Francisco. 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 things these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to choose the correct type. A lot of adapters on sale are simply plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

May

May for San Francisco can be chilly and dry with little rain. Temperatures average in the 60s F (high 10s C) during the day.

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 frequently losing things nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in San Francisco. 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.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you find the right type. The majority of adapters currently sold are just plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices 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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

June

If you vacation in San Francisco during June, you might find that it is mild and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures tend to hover around the 60s F (high 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 50s F (low 10s C). Humidity is generally between 70 and 80% during the day.

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.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • 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 things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to get the correct kind. Many adapters currently being sold are just plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most places.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A versatile choice 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

July

July is balmy and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures average in the 60s F (high 10s C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • Room protection door lock

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing luggage recently, 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 San Francisco. 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.

  • 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.

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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to pick the necessary type. Many adapters on sale 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 works in most locations.

August

If you are traveling to San Francisco in August, you will notice that it is balmy and very dry with almost no rain. Daytime temperatures are in the high 60s F (high 10s C).

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 belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Room protection door lock

    If going to 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.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice 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

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to choose the right kind. The majority of adapters currently sold are just plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

September

If you are traveling to San Francisco in September, you will notice that it is mild and very dry with almost no rain. Daytime temperatures are in the low 60s F (low 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 San Francisco. 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.

  • Luggage protection

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

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. Ensure that you get the right type. The vast majority of adapters on sale are simply plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent option is this one

October

If you vacation in San Francisco during October, you might find that it is balmy and dry with little rain. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 60s F (low 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 50s F (low 10s C). Humidity is generally around 60 during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain sometimes.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing luggage 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 San Francisco. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • 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.

  • 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you choose the correct kind. A lot of adapters that you can buy are just plugs 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 huge amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

November

If you visit San Francisco during November, you may find that it is crisp. Temperatures tend to hover around the 60s F (high 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 50s F (low 10s C). Humidity is generally between 60 and 70% 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 airlines constantly 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 San Francisco. 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Luggage protection

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

  • Room protection door lock

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you find the correct kind. The majority of adapters currently sold are just plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

December

December is chilly and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the high 50s F (mid 10s C) during the day. It rains 5-10 days this month.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

  • Voice and data SIM card

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to choose the right kind. The vast majority of adapters for sale now 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 countries.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave 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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

What to do in San Francisco, California, United States of America

San Francisco is one of the most vibrant and dynamic cities in the United States. Known for its iconic landmarks, stunning architecture, and diverse cultures, it is a top tourist destination for all kinds of travelers.

There are plenty of things to do and see in San Francisco, so here are some of the top tourist attractions that are not to be missed:

1. Golden Gate Bridge – This iconic suspension bridge is a sight to behold. It spans 1.7 miles across the Golden Gate Strait and offers breathtaking views of San Francisco and the surrounding area. You can either walk or bike across the bridge or take a boat tour underneath.

2. Fisherman’s Wharf – This bustling waterfront district is home to many seafood restaurants, souvenir shops, and local attractions such as the San Francisco Maritime Museum and the Aquarium of the Bay.

3. Alcatraz Island – This former federal prison is now a popular tourist spot. Take a ferry over to the island and explore the prison cells where notorious criminals such as Al Capone and Robert “Birdman” Stroud were once held.

4. Chinatown – The largest Chinatown in North America is a must-see when in San Francisco. Wander through the busy streets lined with shops selling Chinese trinkets, dine on authentic Asian cuisine or visit the beautiful temples and pagodas.

5. Cable Cars – San Francisco is famous for its cable cars, which are a fun and unique way to explore the city. Catch a ride from Union Square to Fisherman’s Wharf, or take a trip up to Lombard Street, known as the “crookedest street in the world”.

6. Golden Gate Park – This urban oasis spans over 1,000 acres and is home to several museums, gardens, and recreational spaces. Visit the California Academy of Sciences, explore the Japanese Tea Garden or take a stroll along the beautiful trails.

7. Coit Tower – This Art Deco tower offers spectacular panoramic views of the city, the bay, and the Golden Gate Bridge. Take an elevator up to the top for a unique perspective of San Francisco.

8. The Palace of Fine Arts – This stunning neoclassical structure is a must-see for art and architecture enthusiasts. The beautiful rotunda and colonnades were originally built for the 1915 World’s Fair, and several art galleries and exhibits are housed within the complex.

San Francisco is a city that offers something for everyone, whether you’re interested in history, culture, or just exploring. With so many top tourist attractions to choose from, plan your visit well in advance and enjoy a memorable stay in this beautiful 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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