5 Essentials for your San Francisco Packing List

San Francisco's Golden Gate Bridge shrouded in fog

Packing for a trip to San Francisco can be a little more challenging than it seems. On my first trip to this amazing city I was forced to become one of those tourists wandering around in an “I love SF” hoodie because I’d been caught out by the cold. But on a later visit, my sister had to fork out for a gift shop singlet (tank top) to survive the heat!

If you’re thinking “San Francisco is in California, I’ll just pack what I would for LA”, you’re going to be in trouble. San Francisco’s bayside location means the area tends to be a little cooler and windier than other California cities. Add to that the effects of “Karl the Fog” and you’ll find weather conditions vary from day to day, hour to hour and even suburb to suburb.

To help make sure you’ve got everything you need for your trip, and stop you from having to make any emergency gift shop clothing purchases, I’ve put together my Top 5 Essentials for your San Francisco Packing List.

Weather

While it’s true San Francisco is cooler on average than its California cousins it’s not all doom and gloom in this beautiful city by the bay. The weather in San Francisco on average is actually pretty mild. The difference in average temperatures from summer to winter isn’t as drastic as you’ll find in other locations with daily highs ranging from 15C in January to 21C in August (57-70 F). And the “Indian Summer” can push temperatures higher into the 20s (70s) from September to November.

San Francisco’s position in the north of the state means its weather patterns can often make it similar to the pacific north-west, with plenty of beautiful, sunny days but the weather can be very changeable. The fog that regularly rolls in off the Pacific (affectionately known by the locals as Karl) also plays a major part in the city’s weather. One of the most interesting things about San Francisco’s climate though is how it can vary so much from one neighbourhood to another. Temperatures in Ocean Beach or Golden Gate Park will often be significantly cooler than in places like the Mission.

Layers

“Pack layers” is a San Francisco mantra for a reason. The city’s changeable weather means you could be basking in the sunshine at breakfast but shivering your way through lunch. Dressing in layers each day makes it much easier to adjust to whatever the weather throws at you.

Always include something lighter like a t-shirt or tank as a base layer. But make sure it’s something you’d be happy wearing if things heat up during the day. Temperatures often feel warmer than they actually are in San Francisco so don’t be caught out by the mild predictions in the weather forecast.

By packing clothing you can layer you’ll be prepared for all weather conditions and you can simply add or remove pieces of clothing throughout the day to stay comfortable.

Light Down Jacket

One layer I highly recommend is a lightweight down jacket. San Francisco locals know better than to leave the house without a jacket even on the sunniest of mornings. You can leave your extra-large puffer coat at home though (unless you’re one of those people who are always freezing).

A light down jacket is all you’ll need to keep you warm on those cooler San Francisco days or even when you head out for a meal in the evening. Try and find a version that packs down into itself so it’s not annoying to carry around at the times you don’t need it. Packable versions can just be thrown into your day bag and then pulled out when you need them.

Make sure to remember you’re jacket if you’re heading out to Alcatraz Island. Located in the middle of the bay, the temperatures on the island can get very chilly, especially if you choose to book the Alcatraz Night Tour.

Raincoat

If you’re travelling to San Francisco in the winter make sure to pack a waterproof layer. While San Francisco doesn’t get much rain compared to some other northern US cities you don’t want to get caught out on those wet days. Try and find a light option that packs up small so it’s not a hassle to keep in your day pack “just in case”. Even if you don’t get caught in a downpour, you want to avoid that soggy feeling you get after walking around in thick mist/fog.

Comfortable Shoes

San Francisco’s mild climate and variety of unique neighbourhoods make it perfect for exploring on foot. Chances are you’ll be doing quite a bit of walking during your stay. Add to that the many steep and uneven hills the city is famous for and you’ll quickly realise why a good pair of comfortable walking shoes is a must on your San Francisco packing list.

Don’t fancy walking for miles during your visit? Check out my post and See the Sights of San Francisco by Electric Bike.

Jeans

Of everything you pack for a visit to San Francisco, jeans are the thing you’ll most likely be living in. Whether you’re sightseeing, shopping, dining out or just exploring the city, a comfy pair of jeans will hold up in almost any weather scenario. San Francisco leans towards a more casual feel so there’s rarely a scenario where jeans wouldn’t be an appropriate thing to wear during your trip.

San Francisco people enjoying the sun in Dolores Park

What NOT to Pack

Thongs (Flip Flops)

Even though San Francisco is in California you can leave your thongs at home. The weather rarely gets hot enough to warrant them and even during the Indian summer, a pair of sandals will serve you much better. Have you ever tried walking up or down a steep hill in thongs? It’s not fun.

High Heels

Even if you’re one of those people who could jog in their heels San Francisco’s hills will make you think again. If you can’t bear the thought of flats try a sturdy heeled boot instead. They’ll keep your feet warmer on those cooler days/nights and make for a more comfortable journey while you explore.

Fancy Clothes

Think “California Casual” when you’re packing for San Francisco. The city’s look is generally professional and classy but overall it’s quite relaxed. Save room in your suitcase and leave the fancy clothes at home, you can get away with good jeans and a nice top even at most of the nicer restaurants and venues.

Shorts

There’s likely to be very few occasions where you’d be comfortable in shorts for the day in San Francisco. The weather can vary so much in the course of a day you’re bound to end up with goosebumps at some point. If you’re someone that lives in their shorts no matter the weather go ahead and throw them in, but for the rest of us, you won’t be needing them in San Francisco.

At the end of the day your San Francisco packing list is going to contain all the things you’d usually need for a city-based trip. I don’t need to tell you to pack your passport, travel adaptors and underwear (hopefully!). But if you take my advice on what to pack for San Francisco and throw in my 5 essentials before you zip up that case, you’re guaranteed to be prepared for every situation and enjoy a comfortable trip.

Still working on your itinerary? Check out my post on 10 Must-See Sights in San Francisco for some of my favourite sights and activities.

Have you been caught out with the wrong clothes when travelling? Tell me about it in the comments.