New York City Packing List (30 Things You Might Forget to Bring)

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If you’re planning a trip to New York City, packing may seem overwhelming. As a local, the aim should be to pack efficiently so you’re fully prepared for lots of walking and unpredictable weather, while having a few “just in case” items in tow. 

This packing list includes all the travel essentials you’ll need for enjoying New York City’s fun attractions, but that you may overlook when packing your suitcase to maximum capacity. 

Feel free to use this comprehensive guide as a checklist on what you need to bring for your upcoming trip to the Big Apple. 

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Travel Essentials for New York City

🖨️ Get a free, printable version of this checklist here!

Carry On Luggage

I recommend traveling with a carry-on as much as possible, especially if you’re visiting New York City for under a week. International airports are chaotic, with JFK and Newark being no different.

The Level 8 Road Runner Carry-On is a top choice for storage space if you’re bringing your laptop. It’s also waterproof, ideal for a city prone to bouts of rain. The sleek design gives it a professional polish, while its anti-scratch exterior will minimize potential wear and tear. 

Travel Backpack

A backpack is ideal in New York City, but you’ll want to wear one that’s comfortable after many hours of walking. If you’re only visiting for a weekend or a few days, you could get away with just a travel backpack and still bring your laptop.

The simple design of the Tortuga Travel Backpack won’t clash with your outfit, but it’s still lightweight and waterproof to keep on you for the entire day. If you want an in-depth breakdown of the pros and cons, check out Abigail’s full Tortuga travel backpack review.   

Compact Umbrella

New York City has a humid, sub-tropical climate, and thunderstorms are fairly common throughout the year. Even if you’re traveling during the winter, it doesn’t hurt to have an umbrella in tow.  

The Repel Umbrella is travel-friendly with its small, compact size, so it won’t take up space in your bag. Its durability withstands strong winds while remaining lightweight.  

Anti Theft Belt

While New York City is safe to visit in general, its dense population can leave you vulnerable to pickpocketing if you’re not careful. Consider a travel wallet for valuable documents and credit cards in addition to your regular bag. 

The Peak Gear Travel Money Belt is discreet enough to blend in with clothing if you choose a neutral color, while offering you peace of mind that your phone and credit cards are securely hidden. It’s RFID protected and used by avid travelers who can attest to its high quality.  

Bluetooth Item Tracker 

If you want an extra layer of protection, slide the Tile by Life360 Slim into your wallet, luggage, or passport, and you’ll have a way of tracking any lost or stolen items without hassle. Download the free Life360 app on your smartphone, and you can keep track of family members and trigger an SOS if unsafe. Can’t find your phone? Press the tile and your phone will ring even on silent. 

Portable Charger 

With so much dependency on our smartphones in our day-to-day lives, batteries don’t always last as long as we hope for. Your battery will go quickly between taking pictures and using maps for navigation in New York City, and you don’t want to be stranded because your phone dies.  

Keep this Miady Portable Charger in your bag when you’re out for the day. The order comes with a pack of two at an affordable price. 

Noise Cancelling Headphones

You don’t want to be without a pair of noise cancelling headphones when you’re doing lots of moving around, especially if you’re traveling by yourself. You’ll want quality headphones to block out the street traffic, planes, chatter, sirens, and other commotion found on the streets of New York City at all hours.

The Beats Studio3 Wireless Headphones are stylish and comfortable to wear, with up to 22 hours of battery life when fully charged. 

Travel Laundry Bags

An often overlooked item, but it should be a travel essential. These Muchfun Mesh Laundry Bags are the perfect size for medium-sized clothing and intimates. 

You might buy stylish clothes in a fashion capital like New York City, and you don’t want your fresh-scented new outfit mixed with your dirty socks. Keep your clothing separate so you don’t accidentally wear something unclean! Plus, it will be easier to do your laundry upon your return home with everything organized. 

Ear Plugs

It’s a no-brainer that New York City is infamous for constant noise and congestion, and Flents Protech Foam Ear Plugs are comfortable enough to be worn through the night, especially if you’re a light sleeper. With so many attractions to see, quality sleep needs to be a top priority. 

Mini Hand Wipes

The Cleanze Antibacterial Hand Wipes are a great addition to your travel bag, especially for your trip to New York City. It’s even more important to pack these wipes during flu season, which runs from December to February.  

Between shopping, riding the subway, and getting into cabs, you’ll undoubtedly want to clean your hands as often as you can. These wipes are small, unscented, and use aloe, so your hands won’t dry out if you forget to pack lotion. 

First Aid Kit 

You never know when you might need a band-aid, and the Thrive Mini First Aid Kit is handy to have with you on the go. You can keep it with you in your travel bag or back at your hotel room in case of a minor cut or scrape. The kit includes 66 pieces total, like different-sized bandages and safety pins. 

Disposable Camera

Disposable cameras have made a comeback in recent years, and they’re a great addition for adding some spontaneity to your trip. In my experience, people get excited and are more inclined to take pictures when you pull a disposable camera out of your bag. 

The Fujifilm Quicksnap Flash 400 is a one-time use camera that produces high-quality photos. If you want to save some phone storage, these come in a pack of two at an affordable price. 

Toiletry Bag

You’re going to want to bring a toiletry bag to hold a few larger items without taking up too much space in your luggage. The Narwey Travel Toiletry Bag comes in multiple colors with an appealing, minimalist design that offers water-resistant protection. 

Stain Remover

While New York City has plenty of things to do to keep you busy for the day, getting dirty or having an accidental drink spill is highly likely, but probably not on your radar. 

These Tide To Go Wipes are the perfect size to have in your bag in case of a minor emergency, and can prevent you from going through your clean clothes faster than anticipated. 

Mini Security Alarm 

Traveling to a big city means you want to keep yourself as safe as possible. This is especially true if you’re a solo female traveler. 

The KOSIN Safesound Personal Alarm is a discreet addition to attach to your bag or set of keys that triggers an alarm if pressed. It can give you peace of mind if you’re in quiet, dimly lit, or less safe neighborhood in the city. 

Portable Lock Box 

If you want to add another layer of protection for items like keys and your passport, consider this portable, water-resistant lock box from Master Lock. 

International airports and transit areas are hot spots for pickpocketing, and having extra security for belongings doesn’t hurt. It’s also helpful to have a portable lock box if your luggage gets lost or stolen. Most hotel rooms will provide a safe in New York City, but it’s a good rule of thumb to provide your own. 

Portable Travel Bottles 

Having your liquids leak and spill onto your clothes in your luggage is an experience every traveler goes through at least once. I love these Mziart Travel Bottles for their squeezable, silicone body, small size, and leakproof design. You’ll have assurance that your clothes are safe while taking up less space in your bag at the same time. 

Medicated Lip Balm 

No matter the time of year in New York City, it doesn’t hurt to keep a lip balm with you. I’m a fan of the Aquafor Lip Repair Ointment, especially during the winter when indoor heat and harsh outdoor air really dry out your skin. 

This brand is dermatologist-approved and great for those with sensitive skin. You should still carry lip balm during the spring and summer, as certain allergens can cause irritation. 

Checklist of Other New York City Essentials to Pack

• Travel Toothbrush 
• Toothpaste
• Exfoliating Pads 
• Makeup Remover 
• Face Wash 
• Mouthwash
• Dental Floss
• Small Razor
• Eye Mask 
• Travel Medicine Kit 
• Deodorant 
• Contact lens case/cleaner
• Travel Body Wash 
• Inflatable Neck Pillow 
• Headphones 
• Jewelry 
• Accessories case 
• Tripod 
• Phone Charger 
• Toiletry Bags 

Clothing, Shoes, & Accessories to Pack for New York City

Depending on when you travel to New York City, you’ll want to plan your outfits accordingly. Expect plenty of rain in spring, heat and humidity in summer, and oftentimes freezing temperatures in the winter. 

I’ve compiled a list of your clothing necessities, keeping in mind that comfort and versatility are key factors for a city that requires plenty of walking. You’ll want at least one dressy outfit for formal events or a night out. Neutral colors like beige, white, navy, and black are always in style, and can be easily mixed and matched. 

Of course, you don’t want to overpack, but make sure you have the right amount of clothing, too. 

Comfortable Walking Shoes 

I personally love these Kizik Slip On Sneakers for how simple yet stylish they are, matching with any outfit. I’ve ordered the sand color in the past, and they were comfortable enough to walk around in for hours while being easy to slip on and off. The breathable fabric makes the shoe feel lightweight yet snug, so your feet won’t slide out if you’re walking uphill or on uneven ground. 

Want something comfortable but a bit more stylish? These TOMS Alpargata Loafer Flats are made of recycled cotton and fit like a glove. TOMS is an incredible brand for comfort in general, but I love the sophisticated, simple look of these flats for fine-dining restaurants or museums. 

Anti-Blister Socks

A good pair of shoes is only as good as a pair of high-quality socks, right?

Since you’ll be doing lots of walking, you’ll need socks high enough to protect the back of your feet while staying firmly in place. A pair of anti-blister socks, like the Lapulas Athletic Running Socks, is an essential clothing item to pack. 

One order gives you six pairs of low-cut, cushioned socks to protect your feet from the elements. The material is 85% cotton with a breathable mesh design to keep your feet cool and dry from moisture. 

Light Jacket

If there’s one thing you should pack during all four seasons in New York City, it’s a light jacket for the in-between weather that’s neither hot nor cold. Even during a summer heatwave, the evenings can be surprisingly cool.

Patagonia is a popular brand in the Big Apple, and you’ll want to bring something like the Patagonia Men’s Nano-Air Jacket. The material is breathable and will keep you warm during the fall, spring, or cooler summer nights.  

This Women’s Lightweight Softshell Jacket is a comparable option for the ladies, having a similar look and feel with lightweight, waterproof fabric. 

Travel Slippers 

When you get back to your hotel room after a long day of walking through Central Park and visiting all the incredible attractions, your feet will be tired and achy.

It’s worth packing a pair of slippers, like these portable travel slippers for women and men from QFH. The flexibility makes them easy to pack, and the snug fit will feel like heaven for your feet after a long day. The slippers are machine washable and easy to clean, so you can’t go wrong with this purchase. 

Other Clothing, Shoes, & Accessories to Pack for New York City 

So what clothing, shoes, and accessories should you pack for New York City? Here is a quick clothing checklist for New York City: 

• 1 rain jacket 
• 2-3 pairs of shorts
• 2-4 sundresses
• 1 ball cap or wide-brimmed sunhat
• 2 pairs of jeans
• 2 pairs of wide-leg pants/cargo pants
• 1 pair of dress shoes
• 1 pair of comfortable sneakers
• 1 pair of slippers
• 9 pairs of underwear
• 4-6 t-shirts
• 2-3 dressier shirts
• 1-2 light sweaters 
• 5-10 pairs of socks
• 1 pair of pajamas 

Seasonal Items to Pack for New York City

Since New York City experiences all four seasons, it’s vital to pack a few key items to ensure you’re prepared. 

You’ll spend most of your time outside walking and visiting different attractions. Feeling comfortable in climate-friendly clothes is the number one factor to consider, no matter the time of year you plan to visit.  

Here are recommendations for seasonal items or clothing you might need in New York City:

Portable Fan 

A summer trip to New York City provides you with an endless amount of fun, but the combination of heat and humidity can make it difficult to move around comfortably. The temperatures often reach upwards of 85 degrees Fahrenheit in July and August, making city congestion and lack of proper shade unbearable. 

I carry a mini fan in my purse if I know I’ll be out for the day, and this JISULIFE Handheld Mini Fan gives value for money. It’s pocket-sized, features a fan, flashlight, and backup charge, while lasting between 12 and 19 hours fully charged. 

Disposable Poncho

A key piece of advice to keep in mind is that New York is a coastal city, which means it experiences frequent rainstorms. Late March to early June has plenty of rain, with bouts of thunderstorms in July and August. Even if the weatherman tells you to expect sunny and clear skies, always be prepared.

To avoid overpacking, consider this Hagon Pro Disposable Poncho. It’s compact enough to fit in your back pocket, is lightweight, and strong enough to withstand winds and heavy rain. 

Long Insulated Coat 

From late November to mid-March, New York City often hits freezing temperatures that will require extra layers to stay safe. While some winters can be mild, it’s better to be safe than sorry.

Having a thick, warm coat like the IKAZZ Women’s Winter Coat is a necessity to stay warm and avoid succumbing to the high winds that wrap around skyscrapers. You’ll want a coat long enough to protect your upper and lower body, with insulation, and preferably a hood. 

This extra-long, water-resistant parka coat by Rejork is a great option for men. 

Sunglasses

A pair of sunglasses should be in your travel bag no matter the time of year, but especially in New York City during the spring and summer months when the sun is bright. In the wintertime, light reflection off the snow can increase UV strength, so it’s a good idea to bring a pair even on cloudy days. 

I love this minimalist, fashionable pair by KALIYADI. The polarized sunglasses will protect your eyes from intense UV light, and it comes in a pack of two, so the price is very reasonable for the quality. 

Water Bottle

Bringing a water bottle is not always on your packing radar, but you’ll appreciate this TakeToday Collapsible Water Bottle on New York City’s hotter days. The silicone material makes it lightweight, flexible, and easy to transport, while its folding capabilities mean you can keep it in a small bag.  

Electrolyte Packets

Sweating is bad enough after a long day of walking, but you’re also losing minerals while you sweat. You don’t want to turn in early from gallivanting the streets of Manhattan due to dehydration in a summer heatwave. 

These LMNT Zero Sugar Electrolytes will keep you feeling hydrated on the hottest summer days. Keep one or two packets with you in your travel bag, and add the electrolyte powder to your water. You’ll get a dose of sodium, potassium, and magnesium to re-energize and keep you hydrated.

Touchscreen Gloves

While the summer can bring the heat, the winter can bring bitterly cold temperatures to New York City. 

You’ll want to get a pair of high-quality gloves to protect yourself from the dry, cold air and frigid temperatures that can dip below freezing in January and February. These TRENDOUX touchscreen gloves will keep you on your phone to figure out directions while keeping your hands snug in thick, comfortable fabric. 

Sunscreen

Sunscreen isn’t just for the beach. You should lather it on for spending a day out in New York City. I wear sunscreen year-round, since intense UV radiation can still cause damage on cloudy days. 

I like the Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Sunscreen since it doesn’t leave that white, sticky residue and offers SPF 70 protection. Make sure to cover your face, neck, and even hands for extra protection. 

I’m also a fan of Korean skincare for its quality, and I love this SPF 50 mixsoon Bean Sunscreen for its texture and shiny finish, which feels both hydrating and protective. 

Other Seasonal Items to Pack for New York City

So what seasonal items should you pack for New York City? Here is a quick checklist for New York City:

🌞 Spring & Summer

• 1 sunhat 
• 1 swimsuit 
• 1 beach coverup 
• 1 pair of sandals 
• 1 lightweight blouse
• 1 pair of breathable leggings 

❄️ Fall & Winter

• 1 pair of breathable leggings 
• 1 pair of Long Johns 
• 1 thick scarf 
• 1 pair of hand warmers 
• 1 pair of gloves 
• 1 beanie/warm hat 
• 1 weatherproof boots 

New York City Packing Tips

Wear Comfortable Sneakers or Shoes 

There are many things you can get away with not having in New York City since shopping is so accessible, but having uncomfortable shoes is not one of them. 

The #1 thing you need to take away from this guide is that walking will kill your feet if you don’t wear the right shoes. TOMS has excellent sneakers and flats designed for comfort, and low-cut adidas sneakers are a personal favorite that never leave my feet in pain after a long day. Make sure you wear anti-blister socks with any shoes you put on. 

Try and Bring a Carry-On Bag or Travel Backpack 

If you can manage it, try to bring a bag as compact as possible, like a carry-on luggage or a travel backpack. Once you get to the city, you’ll understand just how congested the sidewalks can get, and the less you have on you to move around, the better. It won’t always be possible, but if you’re coming for 3-5 days or under, you can get away with smaller luggage. 

Order a Travel Vacuum Bag for Large Items

If you’re planning to stay in New York for a longer trip or want to pack some extra outfits for your night out, consider ordering a Travel Vacuum Bag and Electric Pump before your trip to save space. 

I always advise packing less, but this is the trick to bringing more of your favorite clothing without taking up excess space in your bags or paying exorbitant airport luggage fees.

Pack for the Season You’re Traveling  

New York City experiences all four seasons, and packing should revolve around the time of year you plan to visit. The winter will require having warm gloves, scarves, hats, and maybe even a pair of boots in case of a snowstorm. Think about this carefully to avoid overpacking.

The summer is easier to pack for; you only need light clothes, good shoes, and one light jacket for cooler evenings. You don’t have to pack a bathing suit, but Central Park opened the Gottesman Pool this spring, and the city has incredible day spas worth seeing. 

You might even consider a New York City day trip to check out some waterfalls, so pack according to your itinerary. 

Consider Getting Travel Insurance 

You never know what could happen when you’re anticipating a trip, especially without advanced planning. Emergencies may arise and can put a damper on a vacation if you’re not prepared. VisitorsCoverage is Travel Lemming’s recommendation for shopping insurance policies, but be sure to consider your own needs and decide if it’s worth the investment.

🖨️ Get a free, printable version of this checklist here!

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Thank you for reading my packing list. I hope I have you covered! Need more help planning your trip? Check out my 5-day New York City itinerary.