Essential UK Packing Tips for Summer From a Local

Planning a summer trip to the UK? I’ve lived in the UK since 2021, and am well versed with British weather. I also travel around the UK several times a year, so I know what it’s like to explore with a suitcase in tow.

If you need help deciding what to wear and what to leave behind, then this post has you covered. You’ll find all of the essential packing tips you need for summer travel in the UK.

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UK Seasons

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

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

Heading here during a different season? Find the best packing list for your trip: Spring, Autumn or Winter.

What To Expect From Summer in the UK

Weather can be unpredictable in the UK any time of the year, but you’re most likely to find sunny and warm days during the summer.

Rain still comes along, which is why you’ll find a whole section on rain gear down below. Thankfully, this doesn’t often mean full days of rain. It’s very normal to have a high chance for rain in the forecast, but then find it only actually rains for an hour in the morning before the sun comes out. It’s smart to be prepared, just in case you get caught in a surprise shower.

Keep in mind that UK school breaks are shorter than in the US. August is peak summer travel season when you’ll find the biggest crowds. Visiting in June brings a good chance for sunshine but slightly lower crowd levels.

In recent years, the UK has had some serious summer heat waves. If you’re coming from a warmer climate, the news coverage of a UK heatwave can seem overdramatic. Remember that this country is not built for heat. Many buildings are not air conditioned, and a trip on the London Tube can feel like a journey to Hades when the temperature soars. Always check the forecast before you take off and adjust your wardrobe accordingly.

Planning to visit Scotland? I don’t blame you. It’s a gorgeous time of year to head north. Keep in mind that the midges (tiny biting flies) also love summer in Scotland. Insect repellent is a must to keep them at bay.

Top 5 Must-Have Items to Pack for a Summer Trip to the UK

1. Lightweight raincoat. A trench style will never go out of style. However, do opt for a coat with a hood. Especially in busy cities like London, it can be a lot easier to flip up a hood than to battle with an umbrella through the crowds. Since summer is the height of tourist season, crowds should be expected in any popular areas.
2. Compact umbrella. This is the backup to the raincoat. You want something small enough to slip in your day bag, but sturdy enough to keep you dry without flipping inside out.
3. Comfortable flats and sneakers. You can absolutely wear sneakers here. Converse, Veja, and Adidas are all over London in the summer. Swap to cute flats for a dressy evening out. Leave the heels at home, or at least opt for a wedge or chunky heel. Your feet will thank you.
4. Summer sweater. Growing up in Texas, I thought the idea of a summer sweater was a joke. However, cool evenings are very normal here, and you’ll get some gray cool days even in the summer. A cardigan works great, or even a lightweight scarf if you don’t want a full layer.
5. Sunglasses. I know I led with all the rain doom and gloom, but sometimes it is bright and sunny in the UK! Keep a pair stashed in your bag for when the clouds magically part. 

UK Packing Hacks 

I love a packing hack. These are a few favorites for travel throughout the year.

1. UK weather is unpredictable all year – pack some layers even if the forecast says to expect sun.
2. Casual clothing is fine for most places. Only pack minimal evening wear – no one is going to know you wore that dress twice.
3. Wear your heaviest items to the airport.
4. Check for laundry services at your lodging so you can pack less clothing.
5. Consider compression packing cubes if you’re tight on space.
6. Soft-side luggage is lighter, meaning more usable packing space in checked bags BUT it’s also less sturdy and prone to damage.
7. Stash a designated laundry bag to separate dirty and clean clothes.
8. Check for bag storage near your departing train station to make one last day of sightseeing hassle-free. I use Radical Storage to stash my luggage easily at locations all over London.

UK Travel Luggage

I bring my Delsey Carry-On along for all of my travels. 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. During busy summer months, having everything with you instead of checking bags can help make your travel run smoothly.

If you plan to check a larger bag, I recommend a soft-sided bag like this SwissGear Sion Roller Luggage. This can help shave off some of the weight from your luggage to maximize how much you can pack.

Packing Cubes

Compression packing cubes are great for finding extra space in your luggage. Group items by outfit or purpose to finding what you need easier.

Travel Tip: When my daughter was younger I relied on packing cubes to separate her clothing from mine in the same suitcase. Having things organized in the cubes meant I didn’t have to dig through my stuff when I just needed to find her pajamas.

Day Bag

Keep your necessities at hand while you’re out exploring each day. I like a casual bag that can stash all of my essentials like my travel umbrella and water bottle. Sturdy materials that are easy to clean are also a good idea when you’re going to be carrying this throughout your trip.

I’m a huge fan of ROKA London (Same brand is named ORI London in the US). This brand is UK-founded and their bags are stylish while still standing up to changeable British weather.

I own the Bantry backpack and Willesden sling bags. They’re both my most-grabbed bags when I head into London for a day out. The backpack is more spacious, but the sling also holds a lot and is really easy to maneuver from back to front when stepping on crowded trains. 

I don’t believe it’s necessary to buy a bag specifically for anti-theft properties. However, the most important factor for you should be what makes you safe and comfortable. I have friends who swear by their Travelon bags to keep things secure.

Capsule Wardrobe

Pack clothes that travel well and work together. The easiest way to do this is to lay out your items and pare back things that wouldn’t match with the rest of the wardrobe easily.

For example, I have a pair of red flats that I adore. When I’m packing mostly neutral clothing, they come along for a pop of color and easy dress up option. When I’m already including lots of colorful clothing, though, the shoes tend to clash and don’t make sense to pack.

Dresses

Dresses make it easy to feel comfortable and stylish in the UK summer. In London there are tons of gorgeous sundresses out and about – usually paired with sneakers. Add a cardigan or light raincoat if the weather forecast looks questionable. 

This sundress comes in a range of colors and patterns, and it has pockets! You can also find it in maxi-length or with spaghetti straps. 

Casual Knits

These are the layers that make it easy to deal with the UK’s variable summer weather. When it’s coolest, you can throw a cardigan or scarf over your lightweight dress or top, then add your raincoat to stay dry and warm. When the sun shines and temps rise, these light layers are still easy to stash away in your bag.

This cardigan looks great layered over shirts or dresses and is light enough to roll into your day bag when the day warms up.

If a cardigan feels like too much, you can also get a lot of practical use from a summer scarf. This lightweight linen-feel scarf comes in a variety of colors, or you can stick to a neutral to maximize your outfit flexibility. 

Trainers (Sneakers)

When you visit the UK, chances are you’re going to do a lot of walking. Most cities are easy to get around with public transport and your own two feet. For this reason, you want to have some comfortable sneakers as an option.

Don’t worry about standing out as a tourist – trainers are a favorite of even the most fashionable London locals.

Veja trainers are by far the most popular fashion sneaker I see around London. For a less pricey option, you can’t beat Adidas for classic casual style.

If you can’t stand the idea of sneakers, or if you’re leaning into your dark academia phase, stick with a classic Oxford to blend comfort and style.

Flats or Sandals

When you’re ready to dress things up, a cute pair of flats or sandals is all you need. Leave your heels at home – trust me. They aren’t necessary and no one wants sore feet or a broken ankle on holiday.

These flats from Lucky are comfy and can work for daytime city wanders or evenings out.

Boots

In the summer you really don’t need boots unless you’re planning to do a lot of hiking. If you’re planning a hiking holiday in the UK, then I highly recommend SCARPA Terra GTX Boots. These are the same boots I wear for all of my UK walking. Waterproof and comfortable, they’ve already lasted me a few years.

Rain Gear

Luckily your chances of rain are lower in the summer, but only the very lucky will have no rain during their trip. A simple raincoat and travel umbrella will keep you dry when unexpected showers pass through.

A hooded raincoat is a versatile way to keep dry while keeping your hands free. It’s a must-have layer for UK travel.

A good travel umbrella should fit easily in your bag when you don’t need it, but stand up to wind gusts and rain when you do. This is especially good to throw in your bag for days when you leave your raincoat behind because it isn’t forecast to rain.

Reusable Water Bottle

Summer gets hot. Stay hydrated and reduce your plastic waste with a reusable water bottle. Thermoflask is my favorite – mine travels with me regularly.

Water fountains are easy to find in cities. Check out London’s Refill initiative that highlights over 4000 drinking water stations across the city. 

Useful Packing List Items For Any Time of Year

Some things are necessary no matter what time of year you travel. These items will help you wrangle the final bits.

Jewelry Case

I usually limit the amount of jewelry I travel with just to keep things simple. An organizer is a life saver to keep the items you do bring from turning into a tangled mess. I love the flat profile of this jewelry organizer that will fit easily into your purse or carry-on luggage.

Toiletries 

Any liquids in your carry-on need to be travel sized. This 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

Electric outlets in the UK are higher voltage than the US and require a different plug. Travel at any time of year with this multi-country adapter.

Ready to get packing?

I hope this list helps you sort through what to bring along on your next visit to the UK! This is an absolutely gorgeous time of year here, and you’re in for a lovely visit.