Are you going to New York City this October and wondering what are the best things to wear? I’m here to help!
New York City is a fantastic city to visit and planning your outfits in advance will save you some time and hassle when you get there.
Ultimately, remember that you are not going to the Sahara desert here, there will be shops everywhere so you don’t need to overly stress about your outfits. If you need something extra, you can simply buy it there but it’s true that being ready will save you some time.
In this article, I tell you everything you need to know about the best things to pack for New York City in October.
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What is the weather like in New York City in October
October is a great month to visit New York City because you will escape the heat of summer and the cold of winter.
You will also get to enjoy all the fall festivities including Halloween and I can tell you something, Halloween in NYC is pretty exceptional!
In terms of temperatures, they average between 10°C and 19°C (50°F and 66°F) with 7 hours of sunshine per day.
This means that you will need some layers but should overall get good weather. Of course, there is always a chance of rain but that’s something you can easily prepare for.
Essential Packing List for New York City in October
Clothes
The key to pack for NYC in October is to take layers. Since it’s not too cold, you shouldn’t need very warm clothes but some layering is still essential.
- T-shirts or shirts. I’d recommend taking both short and long sleeves. At the beginning of the month, you’ll use more short sleeves whereas you will appreciate the long sleeves towards the end of the month.
- Cardigans or light jumpers. You will most likely wear them all day long. They don’t need to be very warm, just a light cardigan or jumper will do. I also recommend making sure you can take it off easily.
- Jacket(s). A jacket is also essential during the day. It can be a trench coat, blazer or jean jacket. If you have another one a bit warmer (but not as warm as a winter coat), it can also come in handy in the evening.
- Autumn dresses with tights. Comfortable dresses with long sleeves that can be worn with tights are also a great option. They are very stylish and should be comfortable to walk with.
- Skirt or shorts to wear with tights. Again, these will be worn with tights so make sure they match with black tights. You will be walking a lot so stylish shorts might be the best options. Skirts are also suitable but make sure they are not too tight as you’ll struggle to walk around in a pencil dress.
- Trousers and jeans. These are ideal for fall weather and will go well with any shirt you may have.
- Leggings for the plane journey.
- Underwear / Bras
- Socks
- Pyjamas
Shoes
- Comfortable sneakers. You will be walking a lot in New York City so make sure you take shoes you can walk in for a long time.
- Flat leather boots. These are a more stylish option. They will go perfectly with either a dress or trousers. They will also be waterproof which is always a plus in New York City.
Bags
- 1 suitcase or travel backpack.
- 1 hand bag for the day or stylish backpack
Accessories
- A small umbrella
- A hat or light beanie can come in handy, especially at the end of October
- A light scarf or pashmina
- Jewellery – don’t take anything too valuable since unfortunately there are a lot of pickpockets in New York City.
Electronics
- International adapter if you are not from the US
- Phone charger
- Headphones
- Power bank
- Camera
Paperwork
- Passport / ID
- Travel Insurance
- Cash and/or Revolut / Transferwise card
- Bank card
Things To Leave At Home
- Summer dresses
- Wellington boots
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