What Should You Pack for Boston?
Boston’s weather changes throughout the year, so it’s all about packing layers! In spring and fall, it’s cool in the morning and evening, so bring a sweater or light jacket. Summer can be hot and humid, so pack short sleeve shirts and light, breathable fabrics. Winters can be cold and snowy, so you’ll want a warm coat, gloves, and a scarf. No matter when you go, comfortable shoes are a must for walking Boston’s historic streets and parks!
Make sure you’re prepared for: Visiting Freedom Trail, exploring Harvard University, touring Boston Common, taking a ferry to the Boston Harbor Islands, and visiting the Museum of Fine Arts.
Dress Code
Boston’s style is casual and practical, but with a preppy twist. Jeans, sweaters, and comfortable shoes are perfect for walking the city and visiting historic landmarks like the Freedom Trail. If you plan to dine out or attend a cultural event, consider dressing up a bit—think a stylish dress or a blazer for a night out. In the summer, don’t forget sunglasses and a hat for protection from the sun during harbor tours and outdoor festivals.
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Spring
40 – 65°F
(4 – 18°C
)
Summer
65 – 85°F
(18 – 29°C
)
Fall
45 – 65°F
(7 – 18°C
)
Winter
20 – 40°F
(-6 – 4°C
)
Spring: Cool with frequent rain and warming temperatures
Summer: Warm, humid, with occasional thunderstorms
Fall: Cool and crisp
Winter: Cold, snowy, and windy with freezing temperatures
Spring
3.7 inches of rain
Summer
3.3 inches of rain
Fall
3.5 inches of rain
Winter
3.4 inches of rain (with snowfall)
Tops & Layers
1. Short Sleeve Shirts: Ideal for summer days walking around the city and visiting parks.
2. Long Sleeve Shirts: Great for cooler spring and fall days.
3. Sweaters: Perfect for layering in cooler mornings and evenings—I loved having mine for crisp autumn walks through Boston Common.
4. Tank Tops: Useful for summer sightseeing and harbor tours.
5. Casual Jacket: Essential for cool weather in the spring and fall.
Bottoms & Dresses
1. Pants: Versatile and practical for walking and sightseeing in cooler weather—I really liked these for exploring Boston’s historic streets.
2. Shorts: Great for warm summer days while exploring outdoor attractions.
3. Skirt: Ideal for summer days in the city or casual dinners out.
4. Dresses: Great for summer outings and evening dinners in Boston’s fine dining scene.
5. Jumpsuit: Stylish and comfortable for day or night.
Shoes & Accessories
1. Shoes: Comfortable walking shoes are essential for Boston’s cobblestone streets—I loved mine for walking the Freedom Trail.
2. Sandals: Great for warm weather while exploring Boston Common.
3. Sunglasses: A must-have for sunny days while visiting outdoor attractions like Boston Harbor Islands.
4. Hat: Perfect for keeping cool in the summer sun.
5. Swimsuit: If you’re visiting in summer, Boston’s beaches and islands are perfect for a swim.
6. Scarf: Essential for layering during cool fall or spring evenings.
Luggage & Packs
1. Carry-On: Perfect for a short weekend trip, keeping essentials handy.
2. Daypack: Great for carrying essentials while exploring historical sites and parks.
3. Purse: A practical yet stylish purse for evenings out or walking through Boston’s shopping areas.
Travel Essentials
- Reusable Water Bottle: A must-have for travel days and while exploring for the day.
- Packing Cubes: Helpful for staying organized rather than ending up with a heap of clothes in your luggage.
- Luggage Tags: Even if you’re not checking luggage, still good to have in case you misplace your bags.
- Luggage Locks: Can be handy even if you’re not checking luggage, making your backpack more pickpocket-proof.
- Sleep Mask: An eye mask is a game changer for helping you get quality sleep each night.
- White Noise Machine: Same as above. White noise machines have helped me get more consistent sleep.
- Ear Plugs: Much better than the generic foam ones that never stay in my ears.
- Jewelry Case: Especially nice for organizing necklaces and not getting them all tangled.
- Dry Bag: An item to bring if you plan to do a lot of water activities or boat trips.
- Water Shoes: Same as above. Great to bring if you plan to do water activities or boat trips.
- Travel Umbrella: Only if you’re going somewhere where it’s going to be wet and rainy (but not too windy).
- Deck of Cards / Fox in the Forest: I love playing card games while traveling. It’s a fun way to pass the time.
- Portable Charger: It’s surprising how often you don’t have an outlet when you need one, and your phone is essential for everything from directions to your mobile boarding pass.
- Universal Travel Adapter: This universal adapter works in 200+ countries. Great for airports too.
- E-sim: I’ve used Airalo in four different countries now, and it’s the best solution for using data abroad.
- Phone: Currently travel with an iPhone 13 Pro, which also works as my camera for most trips.
- Tablet: I use my iPad mainly for watching shows and movies and checking emails while traveling.
- Headphone Splitter: I use this one with my iPad Air so I can watch shows with my husband on long flights.
- GoPro: A great camera for underwater photography or adventure activities.
- Memory Card for GoPro: This is the one I use for my GoPro, high-quality and reliable.
- Waterproof Phone Case: Even with my GoPro, I end up using this all the time since phone quality photos are so good now.
- Kindle: I love traveling with my Kindle and being able to read multiple books on a trip without the extra weight.
- Noise-Canceling Headphones: These wraparound ones are a must for long plane rides if I want to get any sleep. I also bring Airpods for local bus trips or on-the-go travel when I want to carry something smaller.
- Air Tags: Great if you’re checking luggage in case it gets lost or stolen.
- Chargers: Don’t forget all the chargers you’ll need for the electronics listed above.
- Toiletry Bag: Great for going through security, and they make it easier to find what I want to use.
- Reusable Containers for Toiletries: I use reusable containers so I don’t need to buy expensive travel-sized products.
- Electric Toothbrush: I’ve tried those tiny travel toothbrushes, and they just don’t work for me.
- Toothpaste: These are the perfect travel size that lasts about a month or so for two people.
- Floss: Any floss will do.
- Natural Deodorant: I finally discovered a good natural deodorant. Plus, it’s small, so it’s perfect for travel.
- Shampoo: I get the large size and then just put it in my mini travel containers.
- Conditioner: Same as above. I don’t worry about bringing body wash since I’m okay using whatever’s provided.
- Panty Liners: For when you want some extra protection. Also great for sweaty travel days to keep you more dry.
- Tampons: I like that these are made without plastic, and they’re easy to put into small purses and travel with.
- Tide to Go Pen: Surprisingly handy for getting out those random stains or spills.
- Travel Laundry Detergent: These are useful because you can use them for hand washing or as washer detergent.
- Travel Clothesline: Handy when you need to wash your clothes but realize most of the world doesn’t use dryers.
- Hairbrush: I don’t use a travel-size version because it’s not worth it for me. I’d rather have a full-size brush.
- Hair Ties: Any brand works, but I also make sure to have plenty on hand in my bags.
- After Sun Lotion: Great to have if you’re traveling during the hotter months and expect to get a lot of sun.
- Face Sunscreen: I’ve tried many sunscreen brands, and this is the best face sunscreen I’ve found.
- Body Sunscreen: Reef-safe, easy to spread, and smells good.
- Face Cleanser: I usually get a regular-size bottle and then put it into my refillable travel containers.
- Moisturizer: I’ve tried many fancy moisturizers, and I’ve realized that the simplest ones often work best for me.
- Overnight Face Mask: I use this in daily life as well, but during travel it’s especially good because it’s so hydrating.
- Lip Balm: I’ve been a Burts Bees stan for over a decade, and I don’t think I’ll change anytime soon.
- Makeup: The three essentials I always bring are lip gloss/lipstick, my Clinique CC Cream + makeup brush, and mascara. Everything else is added on depending on the vibes of the trip.
- Travel Razor: I love this size and how easy it is to change the razor heads once a week.
- Razor Replacements: I usually bring enough to replace the razor head once per week while traveling.
- Hydrating Face Sheets: I pack a couple of these to use after long plane rides, great for hydrating your face.
- Travel Mirror: This is a luxury item, but it’s surprising how often I use it when there’s only one bathroom.
- Dry Bar Blow Dryer Brush: Another luxury item. It’s bulky to bring (and I don’t always bring it), but it’s a versatile tool for looking more put together in non-humid destinations.
- Heat Protectant Spray: For the Dry Bar Brush.
- Bug Spray: The most effective spray I’ve found that doesn’t use DEET.
- Tylenol: The best remedy when a headache strikes.
- Motion Sickness Pills: You never know when you might get motion sickness, especially if you’re prone to it like me.
- Tums: Handy for dealing with indigestion or heartburn when eating foods different than you’re used to.
- Pepto Bismol: Another thing to help soothe an upset stomach.
- Other Travel Medications: Make sure to research what else you might need to bring for the destination.
- Electrolyte Powder: Great for staying hydrated, especially after a day in the sun or a long flight.
- Band-Aids: Useful for minor cuts and blisters.
- Anti-Septic Wipes: Keeps wounds clean and prevents infection.
- Unisom SleepMelts: Obviously optional, but these are the only way I’m able to sleep on planes.
- Melatonin: Helps with sleep, especially if you’re adjusting to a new time zone.
- Hand Sanitizer: Essential for keeping your hands clean when soap and water aren’t available.
- Passport
- Travel Visas (if needed)
- Travel Documents, Tickets, Boarding Passes & Booking Confirmations
- Driver’s License / International Driving Permit (if needed)
- Photocopy of Passport (hidden in your pack)
- Emergency Cash – I usually bring US $200 and hide it in 1-2 packs/purses I have with me on travel days in case of an emergency. I make sure it’s separate from my wallet.
- Credit / Debit Cards
- Travel Insurance – Nice to have in case of any medical or travel emergencies.
What to Know Before You Pack
- Layers: Boston’s weather can change quickly, so pack for all conditions.
- Comfortable shoes: Walking the city’s cobblestone streets and historical sites means you’ll need good walking shoes.
- Swimsuit: If you’re visiting in summer, Boston’s Harbor Islands are perfect for a swim!
- Warm accessories: In winter, gloves, a scarf, and a hat are essential for staying warm.
Boston Travel FAQs
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT BOSTON?
The best months to visit Boston are May and September. May brings warmer weather and beautiful blooms, while September’s also great because the crowds have thinned and fall foliage begins to appear. Outdoor activities like walking the Freedom Trail and Boston Common are enjoyable without the intense heat or cold.
WHAT FESTIVALS & EVENTS ARE THERE IN BOSTON?
Boston Marathon (April): A world-famous event attracting runners and spectators from all over the world, perfect for solo travelers and groups alike.
Boston Harborfest (July): A large tourist attraction celebrating Boston’s maritime history with events like fireworks, harbor tours, and family-friendly activities.
Head of the Charles Regatta (October): A premier rowing competition, great for families and sports enthusiasts.
Boston Film Festival (September): A fun event for film lovers, with screenings of new and independent films.
WHERE SHOULD I GO IN BOSTON?
Boston is a city steeped in history and charm. One of my favorite spots is the Freedom Trail, where you can walk through centuries of American history. Be sure to visit the Boston Common, the oldest public park in the U.S., and take a stroll along the Charles River Esplanade for stunning views. Harvard University in nearby Cambridge is also worth a visit, and for art lovers, the Museum of Fine Arts is a must-see. Boston’s North End is perfect for Italian food and cozy dining spots.
HOW MANY DAYS DO I NEED TO VISIT BOSTON?
A 3-4 day trip is ideal to see Boston’s historic sites, museums, and neighborhoods. If you’re pressed for time, you can cover most highlights in a weekend.
Suggested Itineraries:
2 Days: On day one, walk the Freedom Trail, explore Boston Common, and visit the Museum of Fine Arts. On day two, visit Harvard University, stroll through Cambridge, and enjoy dinner in the North End.
5 Days: Copy the 2-day itinerary and add: On day three, take a boat tour of the Boston Harbor Islands and visit the New England Aquarium. On day four, explore the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum and shop on Newbury Street. On day five, visit the Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum and take a walk along the Charles River Esplanade.
1 Week: Copy the 5-day itinerary and add: On day six, visit the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum, and on day seven, take a day trip to Salem to explore its historic and witch-related sites.
10 Days: Copy the 1-week itinerary and add: On day eight, visit the Franklin Park Zoo, and on day nine, explore the Arnold Arboretum. On day ten, take a day trip to Plymouth to see Plymouth Rock and the Mayflower II.
2 Weeks: Copy the 10-day itinerary and add: On day eleven, visit the Boston Symphony Orchestra and enjoy a performance. Spend day twelve at the Boston Public Library and Copley Square. On days thirteen and fourteen, take a trip to Cape Cod to relax at the beaches and explore charming seaside towns.
WHAT SHOULD I PACK FOR 2 DAYS, 5 DAYS, 1 WEEK, 10 DAYS, AND 2 WEEKS IN BOSTON?
2 Days
- 2 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 1 Long Sleeve Shirt
- 1 Sweater
- 1 Dress
- 1 Pair of Pants
- 2 Pairs of Socks
- 2 Pairs of Underwear
- 1 Comfortable Shoes
- 1 Casual Jacket
- 1 Daypack
5 Days
- 4 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 2 Long Sleeve Shirts
- 2 Sweaters
- 2 Dresses
- 2 Pairs of Pants
- 5 Pairs of Socks
- 5 Pairs of Underwear
- 1 Comfortable Shoes
- 1 Casual Jacket
- 1 Daypack
1 Week
- 5 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 3 Long Sleeve Shirts
- 2 Sweaters
- 2 Dresses
- 2 Pairs of Pants
- 6 Pairs of Socks
- 6 Pairs of Underwear
- 1 Comfortable Shoes
- 1 Casual Jacket
- 1 Daypack
10 Days
- 6 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 3 Long Sleeve Shirts
- 3 Sweaters
- 3 Dresses
- 3 Pairs of Pants
- 7 Pairs of Socks
- 7 Pairs of Underwear
- 1 Comfortable Shoes
- 1 Casual Jacket
- 1 Daypack
2 Weeks
- 7 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 4 Long Sleeve Shirts
- 3 Sweaters
- 4 Dresses
- 4 Pairs of Pants
- 9 Pairs of Socks
- 9 Pairs of Underwear
- 1 Comfortable Shoes
- 1 Casual Jacket
- 1 Daypack
WHAT SHOULD I NOT PACK FOR BOSTON?
Heavy winter coats in spring: Boston can still be cool, but layers are more practical.
High heels: The city’s cobblestone streets and long walks make high heels impractical.
WHAT SHOULD I BUDGET FOR A TRIP TO BOSTON ?
Airfare: $200-$500 depending on the starting location and season.
Accommodation: $150-$400 per night depending on proximity to downtown and season.
Transportation: $10-$30 per day using public transportation or rideshare services.
Meals: $40-$100 per day depending on whether you dine casually or opt for fine dining.
Activities: $30-$100 per day for museum entries, boat tours, and entertainment.
IS THERE A TIPPING CULTURE IN BOSTON? WHAT IS APPROPRIATE TO TIP?
Yes, tipping is standard in Boston. Tip 20% at restaurants and $1-3 per drink. Hotel services, including housekeeping, typically receive $1-2 per bag and $2-5 per night for housekeeping.
WHAT ARE SOME LOCAL TIPS I SHOULD KNOW ABOUT BOSTON BEFORE I VISIT?
- Walk or use public transportation: Boston’s public transit system (the “T”) is efficient, and walking is the best way to explore the city.
- Layer up: The weather can change quickly, especially in spring and fall, so pack layers for comfort.
- Visit early: Popular attractions like the Freedom Trail can get crowded, so plan to start your day early.
- Bring cash: Many smaller shops and cafes in Boston still prefer cash, especially in historic areas like the North End.