Seattle Packing List (25 Things You Might Forget to Bring)

👉 Jump to: Seattle Packing List | Essentials | Summer Clothing | Winter, Spring, and Fall Clothing | Packing Tips | Get Printable Checklist

Booked your tickets and wondering what should go on your Seattle packing list? I’m a local who can help you figure out exactly what to bring.

This list will cover the clothes you’ll need to stay dry, go hiking, and wander the city. I’ll also give you ideas for other useful items so you have everything you need to enjoy Seattle’s many attractions.

Bookmark this list or print it with the link below so you can access it easily when it’s time for your trip. Now, let’s dive in!

Affiliate Disclosure: Travel Lemming is an independent reader-supported blog. You can support us by purchasing via the affiliate links on this page, which may earn us commissions. See our Advertising Policy for further explanation. Thank you!

Seattle Packing Checklist

🖨️ Get a printable version of this checklist

Umbrella

This one may seem odd if you’ve read my list of Seattle travel tips, where I mentioned that most locals don’t use umbrellas. But here’s the caveat – a travel umbrella is a cost-effective option if you can’t (or don’t want to) invest in a high-quality rain jacket.

This travel umbrella is compact, easy to stow, and can hold up to the wind that usually accompanies a torrential downpour.

Picnic Blanket

You’ll want to get outside to explore the gorgeous city parks, gardens, and beaches if you’re in Seattle in the summer! Bring an outdoor blanket with you to make your excursions extra comfortable.

I love this one because of its waterproof bottom layer and the soft top layer. You can plop it down anywhere (even on slightly wet surfaces) while you people-watch, read, or take a nap.

Reusable Shopping Bags

Seattle grocery stores and retail shops charge for bags, so it’s useful (and more environmentally friendly) to pack some reusable bags with you on your trip. You’ll also save a few cents.

These space-saving bags fold down small enough to fit in your pocket, but they’re sturdy and roomy enough to hold things like produce and flowers from Pike Place Market or knick-knacks from shops in Fremont.

Blister Patches

You’ll likely be walking a lot on your visit (and even more if you decide to go hiking). That means you could be in for some nasty blisters if your shoes aren’t as comfortable as you think they are.

Grab a set of these blister patches if you’re prone to blisters or want to be extra cautious. They’re comfortable and waterproof. Plus, they can help heal blisters or protect problem areas.

Day Bag

The Travel Lemming team has been a fan of the Osprey Daylite pack for a long time. I’ve had mine for years and swear by it. It’s comfortable, functional, and can fit a water bottle, rain jacket, snacks, and other necessities easily.

Take it with you through Pike Place Market, on a ferry to Bainbridge Island, or up to the mountains. This durable bag is a great investment that will hold up for years (it has for me!).

Portable Charger

Anker portable chargers are some of the best on the market. Use one so you don’t drain your battery completely when you’re out exploring, taking photos, looking up directions, or calling a rideshare.

I love using mine when I visit a coffee shop because it means I don’t have to fight for a spot near an outlet. The Anker PowerCore holds multiple charges, so you’ll never worry about your devices dying when you need them most.

Hiking Poles

Many of the best hikes near Seattle will take you up into the mountains and involve steep climbs. I always bring hiking poles with me, and they’ve assisted me on tricky uphill and downhill treks.

These poles are lightweight and easy to fit in a suitcase. They’re a reasonable price for the quality and have a cork handle that helps wick away moisture if you have sweaty palms.

Travel Backpack

The newly-released Tortuga Travel Backpack is a great choice if you’re looking for a hyper-organized travel backpack to use instead of a traditional rolling suitcase.

Building on prior versions of the Tortuga backpack, this latest model is focused on allowing you to comfortably fit as much as possible in your carry-on. It’s also loaded with padding, making it comfortable to carry even when full.

For more, check out Abigail’s hands-on review of the Tortuga Travel Backpack.

Bug Spray

Your packing list should include bug spray, especially if you’re prone to bug bites and plan to spend a lot of time outside.

Ranger Ready is my top pick because it’s a non-toxic formula that uses Picardin instead of DEET, so it won’t damage or stain your clothes. It’s also long-lasting, so you can usually get away with a single application.

Packing Cubes

Are you an organization fiend? Upgrade your packing game and invest in some Well Traveled packing cubes! These are the key to achieving that perfectly packed suitcase. This particular set even comes with a laundry bag.

Packing cubes come in handy if you’re packing for multiple occasions, like a night out at the opera or a fun day trip from Seattle. After using them once, I’ve never gone back.

Quick Dry Towel

Got caught in an unexpected downpour without your umbrella or raincoat? Want to take a swim in an alpine lake or brave the chilly waters of Puget Sound? Dry off with this quick dry towel! It’s made of a super soft material, so it won’t irritate your skin either.

First Aid Kit

You’ll never regret bringing a first aid kit with you. It’s a necessity if you’re hiking, camping, or backpacking, and good to have if someone gets hurt when you least expect it.

Be prepared for the worst with this highly rated first aid kit. It comes with bandages, ointments, creams, aspirin tablets, and more to ensure you can treat yourself or someone else if needed.

Headlamp

Bring a headlamp for camping or if you plan to go on sunrise or sunset hikes. This waterproof headlamp has six brightness settings and has come in handy for me while camping. It can get darker than you’d think in the wild. Bring this to avoid a nasty fall or worse.

👉 Get a Printable Version of this Checklist Here

Travel Wallet

No one likes the airport scramble of checking your pockets to figure out where you put your ID, cash, or boarding pass. That’s why this travel wallet is such a handy item.

It has room for multiple passports, boarding passes, credit cards, a pen, and any other important documents. This is a great choice for anyone traveling with kids or searching for a way to make travel a little more organized.

Water Bottle Filter

Seattle’s tap water is safe to drink, but you’ll need to filter water if you’re hiking or on a backpacking trip. Use the Lifestraw water bottle and filter to ensure you don’t consume contaminated water on the trails.

Simply fill the bottle and sip the water through the straw, which does all the filtering. This is also a great way to ease any reservations you have about drinking tap water.

Other Seattle Essentials to Pack

• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Face wash and moisturizer
• Sunscreen
• Glasses or contacts
• Contact solution
• Chapstick
• Prescription meds
• Over-the-counter meds
• Hand sanitizer
• Additional toiletries (razors, makeup, etc)
• Books or e-reader
• Headphones
• Chargers (phone, laptop, camera, etc.)
• Passport or ID
• Vaccination information
• Neck pillow
• Face masks
• Eye mask

Clothing to Pack for Seattle in the Summer

Seattle is a casual city – you don’t need to overthink your wardrobe. However, you should carefully select your clothing depending on the season you visit. There are key things to bring in the summer versus the depths of the rainy season.

Let’s start with summer. Here is a quick clothing checklist for what to wear in Seattle during warmer months: 

• 2-3 shorts
• 4-6 t-shirts
• 2-3 sundresses
• 1-2 dressier shirts
• 1 pair of long pants or jeans
• 1 light jacket
• 1-2 swimsuits
• 7 pairs of underwear
• 5-6 pairs of socks
• 1 set of pajamas
• 1 pair of sneakers
• 1 pair of sandals
• 1 sun hat or baseball cap
• 1 pair of water shoes
• 1-2 set(s) of hiking clothes
• 1 fleece jacket
• 1 pair of hiking boots

That sums up the clothing you’ll need for a summertime visit. Here are some specific items to consider:

Light Jacket

Summer is the only time you won’t necessarily need to bring a rain jacket to Seattle (though it’s still good to have one, just in case). Seattle summers are near perfect, but the evenings can get chilly.

This Carhartt jacket for women (and this comparable jacket for men) is light enough to include with the rest of your summer gear, plus it’s fashionable, high-quality, and well-rated.

Fleece

Expect it to get cold at the top of the mountain or beneath the tree canopies, even if you’re hiking in the middle of summer. This Columbia fleece (and this comparable women’s version) is a Pacific Northwest staple! It’s super soft and warm enough to keep you comfortable when you need it.

Hiking Pants

These joggers are a comfortable and affordable choice to enjoy the great outdoors. They dry quickly, so even if you’re hiking on a hot day, you won’t have to worry about getting too sweaty.

As a bonus, the longer length gives you extra protection from bugs. This similar pair for men has many of the same features as our pick for women.

Water Shoes

Washington beaches are generally more rocky than sandy. A nice pair of water shoes will come in handy if you want to search the tidepools on one of Seattle’s beaches.

We love these in both the men’s and women’s styles because they have a sturdy sole, which makes them look a little more like regular shoes and less like water shoes. They’re breathable, dry quickly, and can be worn on the beach or in the city.

Hiking Boots

Planning to hit the trails? You’ll need a good pair of hiking boots or hiking shoes.

Your choice of footwear will come largely down to personal preference, but these Salomon hiking boots are great for anyone looking for boots with good ankle support (also available in men’s version). They’re the exact pair I have, and I love that they’re lightweight, waterproof, and have excellent traction.

Clothing to Pack for Seattle in the Winter, Spring, and Fall

You’ll encounter Seattle’s rainy weather if you’re visiting in spring, fall, or winter. Come prepared for unpredictable weather and bring clothes that keep you warm and dry, but that you can remove easily if it starts to warm up. 

There may be some summer packing list crossover if you visit in the shoulder seasons (May to June and September to October). But for the most part, a visit in fall, winter, or spring will warrant the following:

• 2-3 pairs of long pants 
• 4-5 long-sleeved shirts 
• 1-2 warm sweaters
• 2 pairs of warm wool socks
• 4 pairs of regular socks
• 7 pairs of underwear
• 1 pair of waterproof boots, waterproof shoes, or rain boots
• 1 pair of sneakers
• 7 pairs of underwear
• 1-2 sets of warm pajamas
• 1 dressy shirt
• 1 water-resistant/proof rain jacket
• 1 down jacket
• 1 down vest
• 1 beanie
• 1-2 scarves
• 1 pair of gloves
• 1 set of clothes to hike in
• 1 pair of hiking boots
• 1 set of microspikes

Want a little more guidance on what to bring? Here are some more specific suggestions to help you narrow down your options:

Rain Jacket

Rain jackets are a Seattle staple that should be at the top of your packing list. There are a few qualities that make a great rain jacket. You want something waterproof, easy to layer, and packable. 

Patagonia Torrentshell Jackets have all of these qualities. These are classified as “rain shells,” so you’ll need to make sure you layer under them to keep warm, but they’ll keep you dry. You can even roll them up into themselves to stow them in your bag when the rain stops.

Both the women’s and men’s versions come in multiple colors, so you can rock something fun while you stay dry. 

👉 Pro Tip: While the Patagonia Torrentshell is a high-quality choice, you can get a decent rain jacket for half the price. Anyone traveling to Seattle on a budget should grab a Columbia Rain Jacket if you want to be protected from the rain, but don’t want to make a costly investment just yet!

Rain Boots

Footwear is another important thing to consider when visiting during the rainy season. I love my LL Bean Duck Boots for very heavy rain. They look great and can double as winter boots if you’re here when it snows. 

I’d also suggest Chelsea Boots for something more affordable and fashion-forward. These are great for the constant drizzly days, which we see more often than heavy rain. 

Note that if you’re planning to hit the trails during the rainy season, you’ll want to have a proper pair of hiking boots, rather than just waterproof shoes. The hiking boots I recommended above are great for any season.

Wool Socks

Having a nice pair of wool socks when visiting will ensure your feet stay warm and moisture will wick away quickly if they do get wet.

One great thing about Darn Tough socks is that they have a lifetime guarantee, so there’s no reason to worry about them getting holes or breaking down (just send them in for a free new pair if they do).

Microspikes

You’re much more likely to encounter snow if you’re going to the mountains in the colder months. Have a pair of microspikes handy, so you can avoid any nasty slips as you’re going up and back down the trails.

I like these because they’re lightweight, easy to fit over your shoes, and will give you just the right amount of traction on a path.

Puffer Jacket

In the height of winter, a puffer jacket is great to have on hand. The North Face is a popular and trusted brand here, and they make a range of jackets that work well in the Seattle weather. I like this jacket (and this comparable women’s version). It’ll keep you warm and it’s not too bulky, so it won’t restrict your movement on a hike or walk.

Puffer Vest

You’ll see a lot of locals in puffer vests come fall. They’re one of the best pieces to layer with when the days and weather are still unpredictable.

Bring a vest to keep your arms unencumbered but your body warm. You’ll be comfortable if the temperature heats up in the afternoon and plummets again by the evening. This basic and useful vest comes in a women’s version as well.

👉 Get a Printable Version of this Checklist Here

Seattle Packing Tips

Don’t Neglect Sun Protection

Clouds and rain are Seattle’s most common weather companions, but don’t leave your sunscreen at home. UV rays can pierce through clouds, even on rainy days. Use sun protection so you don’t return from your trip with a completely avoidable sunburn.

Pack Smart for Hikes

Have some hikes on your Seattle itinerary? Make sure you pack smart for them. Research trail conditions on the Washington Trails Association before leaving, and bring the 10 essentials.

In addition to good footwear, hiking poles, and plenty of water, I always bring extra clothing layers, plenty of snacks, and a first aid kit. Check out Abigail’s comprehensive hiking packing list for more important items you don’t want to forget.

Do Laundry to Resist Over-Packing

Chronic overpacker? Plan on doing laundry halfway through your trip to reduce the number of clothes you need to pack. Even if there’s no washer and dryer where you’re staying, there are tons of easily accessible laundromats around Seattle that you can use.

Bring Layers

Ask anyone what to pack for Seattle, and they’ll probably have the same answer: bring layers. This is sound advice, especially if you visit Seattle outside of summer when the weather can be wild and random (think sunshine, hail, windstorms, and rain all in one day).

Pack things like easily layerable shirts, fleeces, and vests to ensure you’re prepared to go with the flow of Seattle’s strange weather.

Dress Comfortably and Casually

Seattle is a casual city, and most people dress for practicality and function. The locals’ style tends to include darker colors and more athletic or outdoor wear.

Dress up if you want, but know that it’s perfectly fine to bring your comfortable digs on a trip here. You’ll fit in with a good rain jacket and anything from REI.

Make sure you also bring a good pair of comfortable walking shoes (Seattle’s hills can be brutal) and you’re all set.

***

That’s it for our ultimate packing list for Seattle! Remember, you can also get the printable version here.

Still trying to figure out which hotels to book? Up next, check out my comprehensive guide to where to stay in Seattle, which includes options for families, budgeters, first-time visitors, and more!

🖨️ Get a printable version of this checklist