Your Perfect Fall in the UK Packing List

A Local’s Guide to Your Fall UK Packing List

Fall in the UK is a magical season. I love to hear the crunching leaves under my feet and often look for mushrooms dotting the forest paths on my walks. Meanwhile, even the big cities like London start to feel calmer after the frantic summer season.

Weather can be a bit unpredictable this time of year, so it’s important to pack wisely. My fall UK packing list will have you feeling stylish and cozy on your autumn trip.

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UK Seasons: Fall in the UK

When is Fall in the UK anyway? This is how it breaks down:

• Autumn: September, October, November
• Winter: December, January, February
• Spring: March, April, May
• Summer: June, July, August

Looking for a packing guide to a different season? Check out my winter, spring and summer guides!

Is the Season Called Fall or Autumn in the UK?

It wasn’t until after I moved to the UK that I discovered Fall is a very American concept. Autumn is much more commonly used to name the season here, though people know what you’re talking about when you say “Fall”. Both terms refer to the same set of months.   

What To Expect From Autumn in the UK

When the calendar turns from August to September, there’s a tangible feeling of slowing down. School breaks are over and many of the tourists have gone home. 

Each month in Autumn offers something special:

• September often brings a last hit of summer weather without the crowds.
• October hosts UK Halloween festivities and is a great time to head to the forest for crunchy leaves and mushroom spotting.
• November is often a preview time for Christmas before the big holiday travel times.

The biggest downside to traveling to the UK in the fall is the weather. You really could experience anything this time of year, making it extra hard to pack light. It’s important to check forecasts close to your travel date and come prepared for variety.

Top 5 Must-Have Items for Your Fall UK Packing List

1. A good quality coat. Autumn coats should provide a bit of warmth, but don’t need to be winter-padded. Look for something that offers windbreaker and waterproof protection.  👉 Click here for my favorite Autumn hooded trench coat 👈
2. Weatherproof shoes. Stylish boots are a staple of the season, though you can still get use from comfy sneakers as well. Chelsea boots are a great option for fall city touring and transition easily from a daytime outfit with jeans to a dressy evening out.  
3. Autumn sweaters. For any unpredictable weather, it’s good to have options. Sweaters should be reasonably lightweight and easy to layer over t-shirts. Cardigans are great this time of year for days when the temperature can’t make up its mind. 
4. Compact umbrella. A travel umbrella is extra important if you don’t have a hooded coat. You want something small enough to slip in your day bag, but sturdy enough to keep you dry without flipping inside out.
5. Tights or leggings. Be sure to bring some cozy tights or leggings to layer under dresses or skirts. The weather this time of year can be unpredictable and these layers will make your travel wardrobe more flexible while taking up minimal space in your luggage.

Fall Packing Hacks 

Packing hacks are more important than ever when you have to be ready for all types of weather. These are a few favorites to help you fit more in and stay organized!

• Wear your heaviest items to the airport, like your autumn coat and ankle boots.
• Don’t leave out dresses – this is the time to layer dresses with tights and a cardigan to nail a put together look without the bulk.
• Check for laundry services at your lodging so you can pack less clothing.
• Consider compression packing cubes to maximize luggage space and stay organized on your travels.
• Stash a designated laundry bag to separate dirty and clean clothes while you’re traveling.

How to Layer Clothes for Fall in London and Beyond

Creating a layered look doesn’t have to be complicated. Follow this simple method for each day on your itinerary and keep in mind you can rewear the items furthest from your body the most.

• Step 1: Base layer – think short or long sleeved tee, tank top, or cami.
• Step 2: Add a sweater (jumper) for warmth – cardigans are extra versatile for warmer fall days.
• Step 3: Loop on a scarf – these are great for UK autumn days when the temperature goes up and down throughout the day.
• Step 4: Throw on your coat – a water resistant trench coat is the most versatile style. Opt for a hooded coat for maximum weather readiness.

Play around with options that mix well together. This should help you pick out items that can be repurposed for multiple travel outfits. 

UK Travel Luggage and Organizing Gear

You will have a smoother trip if you stay organized, whether you’re navigating London city streets or setting off on a Scottish Highlands adventure.

Luggage

I bring my Delsey Carry-On along for all of my travels any time of year. It meets airline requirements for carry-on luggage, includes a TSA lock, and is expandable to fit your souvenirs on the return trip. The internal dividers are also really smart and the front opening section makes it easy to remove items for airport security. 

The hard case can handle a lot. I’ve had mine for years and it’s still going strong. Spinner wheels make it easy to bring along on London streets or across airports. 

If you plan to check a larger bag, I recommend a soft-sided bag like the SwissGear Sion Roller Bag.

Most airlines have weight limits for checked bags and hard-sided bags start off heavier. Choosing a soft-sided bag like this will make it easier to avoid surprise overweight luggage fees or needing to shuffle items out of your checked bag at check-in. 

Packing Cubes

Compression packing cubes create more space in your luggage (extra helpful when adding autumn layers!).

Packing cubes are also really helpful for separating your clothing items so they’re easier to find. When my daughter was younger I relied on packing cubes to separate her clothing from mine in the same suitcase. When she was ready for bed, I didn’t have to dig through my stuff to find her pajamas.

Day Bag

In the Fall, you’re more likely to need room in your bag to stash extra layers and your must-have umbrella.

I tend to carry a larger bag this time of year, and love a backpack from PacSafe. While you don’t have to carry an anti-theft bag if you keep some basic street smarts with you, I do love how easy this bag makes it to keep your possessions safe while still looking cute. 

My favorite British brand to carry is ORI London. Their bags come in a rainbow of cute colors and are perfectly sized to carry my day trip must-haves.

Capsule Wardrobe

When you’re traveling in the fall, layering is the name of the game. Weather is going to be unpredictable so you want to be able to change things up on the go. 

Keep your packing light by picking layers that work well with multiple items. For instance, I might bring a dress in a fun print, but the cardigan, belt, and ankle boots I put on with the dress could easily work with another dress or jeans look. Tights take up very little room in your bag, but can be a lifesaver to keep your legs warm and mix up your look.

Remember that the UK, and even London, has no single style. People come here from everywhere, and you will see all sorts of fashion on the street. Wear what makes you feel good.

Layering Scarves and Cardigans

Give yourself options on your travels with layers that are easy to add or remove during the day. I love to throw in cardigans and scarves because they look great and are super versatile.

Dresses

Dresses absolutely still work for your fall trip to the UK. Add some tights and a layered sweater for a cute look that’s ready for unpredictable British weather.

I love a layering dress for a carefree fall look. A simple ruffled dress keeps a little summer swing, while knit dresses carry in the cozy.

Jeans

Autumn is prime time for denim, so don’t leave your jeans at home! Jeans are also great for travel since you can get more than a single wear out of them and they are easy to match with the rest of your travel wardrobe.

I love Levi’s and own more jeans from them than anywhere else. They come in standard and plus size options, which definitely helps out this mid-size mom.

Tights

Black tights are an easy way to add warmth to your dress or skirt outfit. On the other hand, you can make an otherwise neutral outfit pop with a pair of colorful tights. Since tights pack small, they are a great way to bring variety to your look without packing too many outfits.

Ankle Boots

You can’t go wrong with a classic Chelsea boot. This style is iconic for a reason, and is perfect for walking confidently throughout your trip, whether in rain or shine.

I usually stick to flats when I travel. If you must have a heel, stick to a block style that won’t slide on wet pavement.

Countryside Boots

Wellies are cute, but not something you see commonly in UK cities. I’d only recommend bringing them if your forecast is showing consistent rain showers during your visit.

However, if you are planning a hiking holiday, then a good pair of hiking boots are a must to cope with autumn’s sometimes muddy conditions. I swear by my SCARPA boots every time I head out on a countryside walk. They are comfortable and fully waterproof for soggy days.

Cozy Hat

A simple beanie hat is easy to pack and makes a huge difference if the weather turns unexpectedly cold. 

Outerwear and Rain Gear

You’re going to be bringing a coat with you on every outing, so you may as well bring something stylish. This Calvin Klein coat is a classic trench that will look great for sightseeing and evenings out.

A travel umbrella is also a must. It should fit easily in your bag when you don’t need it, but stand up to wind gusts and rain when you do.

Things To Pack for a UK Trip Any Time of Year

Jewelry Case

I love the flat profile of this jewelry organizer that will fit easily into your purse or carry-on luggage. Try to select jewelry that will complement several outfits, and don’t put valuable jewelry into checked luggage.

Toiletries 

Any liquids in your carry-on need to be travel sized. My favorite kit makes it easy to bring many different types of product in one bag and includes useful tools for filling and cleaning the containers.

Electronics

Travel at any time of year with a multi-country adapter. Multiple USB outlets let you charge up to three devices with the same adapter.

UK Fall Packing List Wrapped

I hope this list helps you sort through what to bring along on your visit to the UK! Weather may be unpredictable this time of the year, but it’s a beautiful season for exploring. 

More Help Planning Your Autumn UK Trip

Don’t miss these guides for a smooth and memorable trip!

• Things To Do on a Rainy Day in London
• How Many Days Should You Spend in London?
• Best Day Trips From Edinburgh
• Three Days in the Cotswolds
• Seven Day London and Edinburgh Itinerary
• Day Trip to Bath England
• Day Trip to Oxford England
• Castle Day Trips From London