What Should You Pack for Houston?
Houston’s weather is warm for most of the year, so pack light and breathable clothes! Summers are especially hot and humid, so you’ll want to bring short sleeve shirts, tank tops, and comfortable shorts. In the spring and fall, it can get cooler in the mornings and evenings, so a light jacket or sweater is handy. Winters are mild, but bring a sweater or a casual jacket for those cooler days. No matter the season, comfortable shoes are key for walking and exploring.
Make sure you’re prepared for: Visiting Space Center Houston, exploring the Museum District, walking around Discovery Green, enjoying the Houston Zoo, and taking a day trip to Galveston Beach.
Dress Code
Houston has a casual yet stylish vibe, with many locals dressing comfortably but with a bit of flair. Jeans, shorts, and casual tops are great for exploring the city. If you plan to visit the Museum District or dine out in nice restaurants, a sundress or smart-casual outfit works well. In summer, light and breathable fabrics are a must for staying cool in the heat. Don’t forget a hat and sunglasses if you’re planning to spend time outdoors at Discovery Green or Galveston Beach!
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Spring
60 – 80°F
(15 – 27°C
)
Summer
75 – 95°F
(24 – 35°C
)
Fall
60 – 85°F
(15 – 29°C
)
Winter
45 – 65°F
(7 – 18°C
)
Spring: Warm, with occasional rain and thunderstorms
Summer: Hot and humid, with frequent thunderstorms
Fall: Warm, with cooler mornings and evenings
Winter: Mild, occasional rain
Spring
3.4 inches of rain
Summer
4.0 inches of rain
Fall
3.9 inches of rain
Winter
3.2 inches of rain
Tops & Layers
1. Short Sleeve Shirts: Perfect for Houston’s warm and humid climate—I loved these for days spent exploring the city.
2. Long Sleeve Shirts: Great for cooler spring and fall mornings.
3. Sweaters: A good layer for cooler evenings or indoor attractions.
4. Tank Tops: Essential for staying cool in the hot summer weather.
5. Casual Jacket: Ideal for mild winter days or breezy evenings.
Bottoms & Dresses
1. Pants: Great for cooler days and evenings—perfect for casual outings.
2. Shorts: Ideal for warm summer days, especially while exploring outdoor spaces like Discovery Green.
3. Skirt: Stylish and comfortable for casual outings or dinner at a restaurant.
4. Dresses: Perfect for dining out or strolling around the Museum District.
5. Jumpsuit: Comfortable and stylish, great for day-to-night transitions.
Shoes & Accessories
1. Shoes: Comfortable shoes are a must for exploring Houston’s museums and parks.
2. Sandals: Ideal for warm weather, perfect for casual days out.
3. Sunglasses: Essential for sunny days in Houston.
4. Hat: Great for keeping cool and protected from the Texas sun.
5. Swimsuit: If you’re planning to visit Galveston Beach or enjoy a hotel pool.
6. Beach Coverup: Perfect for lounging by the pool or the beach in Galveston.
Luggage & Packs
1. Carry-On: Ideal for a short trip, keeping essentials handy.
2. Daypack: Perfect for carrying your camera and water bottle while exploring Houston’s outdoor spaces.
3. Purse: A stylish yet practical option for evenings out in the city.
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
- Light fabrics: Houston’s heat and humidity make light, breathable clothing essential, especially in summer.
- Comfortable shoes: Perfect for walking around Houston’s outdoor spaces like Discovery Green.
- Swimsuit: If you’re visiting Galveston or staying at a hotel with a pool, you’ll need this!
- Hat and sunglasses: The Texas sun is strong, so be prepared for bright and sunny days outdoors.
Houston Travel FAQs
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT HOUSTON?
The best months to visit Houston are March and April. The weather is warm, but not too hot, and the city comes alive with events like the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo. October is also great because the humidity decreases, and there are fun outdoor festivals like the Texas Renaissance Festival.
WHAT FESTIVALS & EVENTS ARE THERE IN HOUSTON?
Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo (March): A large tourist attraction featuring concerts, rodeo events, and carnival rides—great for families and solo travelers alike.
Houston Art Car Parade (April): A fun and quirky parade showcasing art-covered cars, ideal for couples and groups.
Texas Renaissance Festival (October-November): One of the largest Renaissance fairs in the U.S., perfect for families and friends.
Houston Pride Festival (June): A colorful and inclusive celebration, great for everyone.
WHERE SHOULD I GO IN HOUSTON?
Houston has a mix of space exploration, culture, and outdoor beauty. One of my favorite places is the Space Center Houston, where you can learn about NASA’s history and space missions. For art lovers, the Museum District offers a variety of world-class museums, including the Museum of Fine Arts and the Houston Museum of Natural Science. Don’t miss Discovery Green, a 12-acre urban park with events and activities year-round. A day trip to Galveston Beach is also highly recommended.
HOW MANY DAYS DO I NEED TO VISIT HOUSTON?
A 3-4 day trip is perfect to explore Houston’s highlights like the Museum District, Space Center Houston, and Galveston Beach. A weekend trip works for the main sights.
Suggested Itineraries:
2 Days: On day one, visit Space Center Houston and enjoy an afternoon in the Museum District. On day two, spend the morning at Discovery Green, then take a trip to Galveston Beach for some sun and sand.
5 Days: Copy the 2-day itinerary and add: On day three, visit the Houston Zoo and Hermann Park. On day four, explore the Houston Museum of Natural Science and take a stroll through the Houston Arboretum. On day five, take a day trip to the Texas Renaissance Festival (if visiting in fall) or spend the day exploring the shops and cafes in Montrose.
1 Week: Copy the 5-day itinerary and add: On day six, take a day trip to Kemah Boardwalk for rides, food, and waterfront views. On day seven, visit the Museum of Fine Arts and catch a concert at the Miller Outdoor Theatre.
10 Days: Copy the 1-week itinerary and add: On day eight, visit the Bayou Bend Collection and Gardens, and on day nine, spend time exploring Buffalo Bayou Park. On day ten, take a trip to the San Jacinto Monument and Battleship Texas.
2 Weeks: Copy the 10-day itinerary and add: On day eleven, take a trip to Brazos Bend State Park to experience nature and wildlife. Spend day twelve visiting The Galleria for shopping and dining. On days thirteen and fourteen, relax at Galveston Beach and enjoy some fresh seafood at one of the beachfront restaurants.
WHAT SHOULD I PACK FOR 2 DAYS, 5 DAYS, 1 WEEK, 10 DAYS, AND 2 WEEKS IN HOUSTON?
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 HOUSTON?
Heavy winter coats: Houston’s winters are mild, so you won’t need a bulky coat.
High heels: With Houston’s spread-out attractions, comfortable shoes are a better option for all the walking.
WHAT SHOULD I BUDGET FOR A TRIP TO HOUSTON ?
Airfare: $150-$400 depending on your starting location and season.
Accommodation: $100-$300 per night, with higher rates downtown or during large events like the Houston Rodeo.
Transportation: $20-$50 per day for rideshares or rental cars, depending on how much you move around the city.
Meals: $30-$80 per day depending on whether you dine casually or at upscale restaurants.
Activities: $30-$100 per day for tickets to Space Center, museums, or special tours.
IS THERE A TIPPING CULTURE IN HOUSTON? WHAT IS APPROPRIATE TO TIP?
Yes, tipping is expected in Houston. The standard tip at restaurants is 20%, and bartenders usually receive $1-3 per drink. For hotel staff, $1-2 per bag is common, and $2-5 per night for housekeeping.
WHAT ARE SOME LOCAL TIPS I SHOULD KNOW ABOUT HOUSTON BEFORE I VISIT?
- Prepare for the heat: Houston is hot and humid, so wear breathable fabrics and stay hydrated.
- Explore beyond downtown: Neighborhoods like Montrose and The Heights have great local shops, cafes, and restaurants.
- Expect thunderstorms: Houston gets sudden summer thunderstorms, so bring an umbrella or light rain jacket.
- Parking can be tricky: Downtown parking is limited, so plan ahead or use rideshare services when possible.