What to pack for New York City
Pack Like a Local: Your Comprehensive Guide to What to Pack for Your New York City GetawayPackaging the right items is essential to maximize your trip to New York City. Whether you visit during the summer or winter, this guide will help you pack for a comfortable and enjoyable trip.
New York City is a dream destination for many travelers, offering many experiences, from world-renowned museums and theaters to incredible dining options and unforgettable landmarks. But with so much to see and do, it's important to pack smart to ensure you have everything you need for your adventure in the Big Apple. In this guide, we'll share what to pack for your New York City trip, from clothing essentials to electronics and what not to pack.
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Be Prepared for the Summer Times
New York City experiences various temperatures throughout the year, with hot and humid summers and cold winters. When visiting during summer, lightweight clothing is recommended, such as breathable cotton shirts, shorts, and comfortable sandals. Consider bringing a light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings. For women, a sundress or maxi dress is perfect for exploring the city’s parks and enjoying outdoor activities.
Ready for the Winter
If you’re planning a trip during the winter months, make sure to pack warm clothing such as a coat, hat, gloves, and scarf. Layering is also key to staying comfortable in the city’s indoor heating. For both men and women, sturdy, stylish boots with a good grip are essential for navigating the snowy sidewalks.
Blend In With the Locals
This will help you save space in your luggage and give you more flexibility during your trip. For example, pack a pair of classic jeans that can be dressed up with a blouse and heels for a night out or dressed down with a t-shirt and sneakers for a day of exploring. By packing versatile items that can be dressed up or down, you'll be able to make the most of your NYC adventure without having to lug around a heavy suitcase.
In terms of local style, New York is a fashion-forward city, and you’ll see various styles. That said, New Yorkers are known for mainly wearing dark colors like black, navy blue, and gray. You can’t go wrong with neutral-colored clothing like black jeans, leather boots, and a classic trench coat.
Your Feet Are Your Best Friends
When it comes to exploring the city on foot, comfort should be your top priority. Choose shoes with good arch support, a cushioned sole, and a sturdy sole to protect your feet from rough terrain. Avoid shoes with stiff or thin soles, which can cause foot pain or injuries.
Comfortable But Trendy
Pack for comfort, not just style. You'll walk a lot in New York City, and your feet will thank you for choosing comfortable shoes. Don't sacrifice comfort for fashion - instead, look for stylish shoes that also provide good support. Your feet (and Instagram feed) will thank you!
Sneakers are a popular choice for both men and women and can easily be dressed up or down. For women, ankle boots or loafers can be paired with jeans or a dress for a chic look. For men, a pair of dress shoes or loafers can be paired with slacks or khakis for a stylish outfit. For the winter months, be sure to pack a pair of waterproof boots with good traction. They will keep your feet warm and dry in the snow and slush.
Also, your trip to New York City is not the time to break in those cute heels or ankle booties. Bring your tried-and-true walking shoes to avoid blisters and other foot injuries.
Electronics
One of the best things about NYC is that it’s easy to purchase almost anything you may forget for your trip, but a few miscellaneous things are worth packing.
Bringing a universal adapter plug is essential if you’re traveling from outside the United States. Many devices can be charged via USB (and many hotels now have USB ports), so bring a few charging cables for your phone, tablet, or camera. It’s also a good idea to get a portable charger to keep your devices powered while exploring the city – this is especially handy if you’re using your phone a lot to navigate the subways or look up info on the go.
Protect your Cell Phone
To protect your phone, consider bringing along a good-quality phone case or screen protector. With so many people around, it’s easy for your phone to get bumped or dropped, and city sidewalks have caused more than one broken screen.
With the improvement in smartphone cameras, you may want to save space by not packing a bulkier camera, but if you do, remember that some attractions have restrictions on photography, especially if you plan to use a tripod.
Stay Hydrated
Another helpful item to bring along is a refillable water bottle. New York’s tap water is among the best in the world, so you’ll save both money and time by bringing along your own bottle to fill up.
What Not to Pack for New York City
When it comes to what not to pack for your New York City trip, there are some obvious things – for instance, heavy winter clothing should be left at home during the summer months, as the city can experience hot and humid weather.
In terms of clothing, almost anything goes in New York City, but depending on your itinerary, it’s best to avoid packing revealing clothing such as short shorts, crop tops, or low-cut shirts. Some religious buildings, upscale restaurants, and museums have strict dress codes, so it’s important to check beforehand.
Additionally, no need to bring along excessive cash. While it’s always a good idea to have cash on hand for tips and small purchases, carrying large amounts of cash can make you a target for theft. Instead, bring a debit or credit card for larger purchases. Some stores in New York City no longer accept cash.
Lastly, you’ll almost certainly want to bring home souvenirs, so it’s best to avoid packing unnecessary items that will take up space in your luggage, such as too many pairs of shoes, bulky electronics, or heavy books. By packing only, the essentials, you’ll have more room in your luggage for souvenirs and gifts to bring back home.