Here’s how to pack for NYC in summer
Millions of visitors make their way to NYC each year, and the summer months remain some of the busiest for travel. From attending outdoor festivals to strolling through the city’s well-maintained parks, there’s an abundance of fun and fab things to do outside when warm weather arrives in the Big Apple.
Beyond the obvious items such as tech (cell phone, iPad, camera, laptop, charges, etc.), undergarments, sleep clothes, and your usual toiletries, you should carefully consider what goes in your suitcase. I’m sharing how to pack for NYC in summer, so you come well equipped to be both stylish and comfy during your warm-weather stay in New York City.
First thing’s first….don’t overpack for summer in NYC.
Of course, you don’t want to run low on fashionable clothing for your nights out on the town, but by the same token, you’ll surely do some shopping while you’re in New York too. In other words, save a little space in that luggage.
For daytime sightseeing in summer in NYC…..
A fab tote bag (This bag can also double as your personal carry-on item if you’re flying.)
This tote is my personal favorite. I use it around town and when I travel. It’s perfect to carry the necessities for a day out in the city, and all those cute must-haves you find in your travels. I have it in navy blue and black. I’d buy this bag in every color if I had an endless budget. 🙂
Cute sneakers.
Because yes, even tennis shoes can look chic, and when milling about for miles in Central Park, comfort is king.
Ballet flats like Tieks or other slip-ons.
Because sometimes it’s too humid in NYC to don sneakers. If Tieks aren’t in the budget, you might like these metallics from one of my favorite brands.They feel like slippers.
Casual sundresses.
When the city is humid and sticky, a sundress will be the comfiest choice. And if you get chilly in the A/C, you can always throw on a shrug or sweater.
Fashionable shorts.
For both guys and gals… and I’m not talking the athletic variety, but more like walking shorts or even denim cut-offs dressed up with shoes and accessories. (More on those later.)
Cotton tees.
Cotton is comfortable and absorbent. You’ll thank me when the temperature reaches 90 in July or August.
Cotton pants, (like khakis), and for the ladies, preferably cropped.
Because you can easily wear light, casual pants for daytime activities and carry them over into the evening hours.
Sunscreen.
You might not feel that sun beating down upon your face, but trust me, you can catch a burn as the rays seep between the city’s skyscrapers, or if you’re walking on the boardwalk in Coney Island. Better to protect now than regret later.
For nights on the town….
Dressy sundress.
A dressier version of your daytime ensemble will work. A maxi-dress would be the ultimate.
Stylish sandals.
You don’t need to wear high heels to dress up your outfit, especially if you’re sporting a cute dress. Simple sandals will do. And men can look adorable in sandals too, but maybe leave the Birkenstocks at home.
LBD (Little black dress).
Because every girl’s suitcase should contain a black dress.
Leggings.
Depending on the temperature and if it rains, leggings are so versatile and take so little space, so I recommend throwing a pair in for “just in case
Silk or cotton tunic top, dressier shirt.
Ideal for on top of those leggings, or even with your cute shorts…yes?
Cardigan or light jacket.
For that cold blast of air you’ll feel in the Broadway theater that will leave you shivering. Always carry a jacket, sweater or wrap to the theaters.
If you must… wedge or chunky heels.
I suggest that you forgo the stilettos unless you are a pro at walking a minimum of a half mile in them (10 city blocks), or you plan not to walk much at all. And that’s no fun because New York is the capital of walking cities! Wedges and chunky heels can and do look amazing with any of my suggestions above. Great for an evening out.
And lastly, ACCESSORIES!
They take up little space in your luggage but can go a long way in making any outfit.A clutch or petite cross-body bag – for when you’re carousing the town and don’t want to lug the big bag – is a must.
Summer nights are usually still steamy, but hotels, shops, and some restaurants blast the A/C. A summer scarf is always a good idea in NYC Â and you can toss one in your tote before leaving your hotel for the day.
Sunglasses are a must in NYC. Not only to protect your eyes from the sun but to look like a New York local. I like these cat-eye sunnies from Kate Spade.
Jewelry can practically take a daytime sightseeing outfit and transition it to a nighttime ensemble, so bring a few of your favorite pieces to dress up those shorts and casual dresses in case you don’t have time to return to your hotel to change clothes.
I’m going to mention the umbrella, but I don’t believe you need to cart one. Umbrellas are everywhere in Manhattan at the mention of rain, so you’ll be able to purchase one on the street, and then have the option of carrying it back or recycling it (leaving it in a taxi before you depart NYC).
What did I miss? Do you have any suggestions on how to pack for NYC in summer?
Not sure what to do while you’re here?
Walk over the Brooklyn Bridge. Visit the High Line and Madison Square Park. And EAT. Eat a lot!
And a one-day sightseeing tour in New York. Plus, find a great hotel for your trip to New York.
And if you want to get out NYC, I recommend a road trip.
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No doubt whether summer or winter or at any time of the year NY has its magnetism for something is perhaps one of the main cities in the world.