
What Should You Pack for Philadelphia?
Philly’s weather changes with the seasons, so packing layers is a smart choice. Spring and fall are mild, so a light sweater or casual jacket paired with short or long sleeve shirts will keep you comfortable. Summer can be warm and humid, so pack light clothing like tank tops, shorts, and sandals. Winters are cold, so you’ll want a heavy coat, scarf, and gloves to stay warm when exploring the city’s historical sights. Don’t forget comfortable shoes for all the walking you’ll be doing!
Make sure you’re prepared for: Exploring Independence Hall, visiting the Liberty Bell, strolling through Rittenhouse Square, touring the Philadelphia Museum of Art, and sampling local food at Reading Terminal Market.
Dress Code
Philadelphia has a relaxed yet urban style, so casual outfits work for most sightseeing. You’ll see a lot of locals in jeans, comfortable shoes, and casual jackets. If you’re visiting museums, walking through the city’s parks, or trying the famous cheesesteaks, smart-casual is perfect. For a nice dinner or evening event, a stylish dress or slacks with a nice top will fit right in. Remember that Philly has plenty of outdoor spaces, so pack accordingly for the season!
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Spring
45 – 70°F
(7 – 21°C
)
Summer
70 – 85°F
(21 – 29°C
)
Fall
50 – 70°F
(10 – 21°C
)
Winter
25 – 45°F
(-4 – 7°C
)
Spring: Mild with some rainy days
Summer: Warm and humid with occasional thunderstorms
Fall: Cool with crisp mornings and colorful leaves
Winter: Cold, some snow
Spring
3.8 inches of rain
Summer
4.4 inches of rain
Fall
3.3 inches of rain
Winter
3.1 inches of rain
Tops & Layers
1. Short Sleeve Shirts: Great for warmer spring and fall days—I loved having these for museum days!
2. Long Sleeve Shirts: Perfect for layering in cooler weather.
3. Sweaters: Ideal for layering when it cools down, especially during the evening.
4. Tank Tops: A must for those hot summer days—perfect for outdoor sightseeing.
5. Casual Jacket: Handy for chilly mornings and cool nights.
Bottoms & Dresses
1. Pants: Comfortable for walking around the city—I loved these for visiting historical sites.
2. Shorts: Great for summer, especially when strolling through parks or Old City.
3. Skirt: A stylish option for casual outings or dinners out.
4. Dresses: Perfect for day-to-night transitions in summer or fall.
5. Jumpsuit: A fun and fashionable option for exploring or a nice dinner out.
Shoes & Accessories
1. Shoes: Comfortable shoes are essential for walking around the city’s attractions—I loved mine for long strolls through Old City!
2. Sandals: Perfect for summer sightseeing and exploring outdoor spaces.
3. Sunglasses: Philly can be sunny in the warmer months, so don’t forget these!
4. Hat: Great for keeping cool and stylish during summer outings.
5. Swimsuit: Ideal if you’re planning to relax by a hotel pool.
6. Beach Coverup: A chic addition for lounging at the pool after a day of exploring.
Luggage & Packs
1. Carry-On: Ideal for a weekend trip, keeping essentials handy.
2. Daypack: Perfect for carrying your camera and snacks while visiting Philly’s outdoor and historical attractions.
3. Purse: A stylish yet practical option for evenings out or casual sightseeing.
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: Philly’s weather can be unpredictable, so pack layers for comfort.
- Comfortable shoes: You’ll do a lot of walking, especially around Old City and the Museum District.
- Swimsuit: If you’re staying at a hotel with a pool, bring a swimsuit for some relaxation.
- Umbrella: Spring and summer rain showers are common, so a small umbrella can come in handy.

Philadelphia Travel FAQs
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT PHILADELPHIA?
The best months to visit Philadelphia are May and September. In May, the weather is mild and perfect for outdoor activities like strolling through Rittenhouse Square or exploring Old City. September’s also great because the temperatures are cooler, and you can enjoy outdoor festivals like the Fringe Festival.
WHAT FESTIVALS & EVENTS ARE THERE IN PHILADELPHIA?
Philadelphia Flower Show (March): A major event showcasing stunning floral displays, great for couples and families.
Wawa Welcome America (July): A free, family-friendly festival celebrating the 4th of July with concerts, fireworks, and activities.
Fringe Festival (September): An arts festival featuring theater, dance, and performances, ideal for solo travelers and arts lovers.
Made in America Festival (September): A music festival with top performers, great for groups and friends.
WHERE SHOULD I GO IN PHILADELPHIA?
Philadelphia is a city filled with history and vibrant neighborhoods. One of my favorite spots is Independence Hall, where you can learn about the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Don’t miss the Philadelphia Museum of Art for its world-class exhibits and iconic “Rocky Steps.” A stroll through Rittenhouse Square is a great way to relax, and for a food adventure, head to Reading Terminal Market to taste local favorites.
HOW MANY DAYS DO I NEED TO VISIT PHILADELPHIA?
You’ll need 3-4 days to see Philadelphia’s main attractions like the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, and the Philadelphia Museum of Art. A weekend is enough for the highlights.
Suggested Itineraries:
2 Days: On day one, visit Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, and take a walk through Old City. In the afternoon, explore Reading Terminal Market and stroll through Rittenhouse Square. On day two, visit the Philadelphia Museum of Art, then head to the Franklin Institute for some interactive exhibits.
5 Days: Copy the 2-day itinerary and add: On day three, explore the Barnes Foundation for an incredible art collection. On day four, visit the Eastern State Penitentiary and learn about its history. On day five, take a walk along the Schuylkill River Trail and enjoy the view of Boathouse Row.
1 Week: Copy the 5-day itinerary and add: On day six, spend time at the Philadelphia Zoo, America’s first zoo, and on day seven, visit the Museum of the American Revolution to dive into the city’s history.
10 Days: Copy the 1-week itinerary and add: On day eight, visit Fairmount Park and explore its gardens and trails. On day nine, take a day trip to Valley Forge National Historical Park. On day ten, visit the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts to explore American art.
2 Weeks: Copy the 10-day itinerary and add: On day eleven, visit the Mutter Museum for an intriguing look at medical history. On day twelve, explore the neighborhoods of South Philly for food and culture. On days thirteen and fourteen, take a trip to Longwood Gardens for stunning horticultural displays.
WHAT SHOULD I PACK FOR 2 DAYS, 5 DAYS, 1 WEEK, 10 DAYS, AND 2 WEEKS IN PHILADELPHIA?
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 PHILADELPHIA?
High heels: You’ll be walking a lot, so comfortable shoes are better for Philly’s cobblestone streets.
Heavy winter coat: Philly can get cold, but a medium-weight jacket with layers is enough for most of the winter.
WHAT SHOULD I BUDGET FOR A TRIP TO PHILADELPHIA ?
Airfare: $150-$400 depending on your starting location and season.
Accommodation: $100-$250 per night depending on location and season.
Transportation: $20-$50 per day for public transit or rideshares.
Meals: $30-$80 per day depending on where you dine.
Activities: $30-$100 per day for museum tickets or tours.
IS THERE A TIPPING CULTURE IN PHILADELPHIA? WHAT IS APPROPRIATE TO TIP?
Yes, tipping is standard in Philadelphia. It’s customary to tip 20% at restaurants and $1-3 per drink. Hotel services, including housekeeping, generally receive $1-2 per bag and $2-5 per night for housekeeping.
WHAT ARE SOME LOCAL TIPS I SHOULD KNOW ABOUT PHILADELPHIA BEFORE I VISIT?
- Prepare for rain: Philly gets rain throughout the year, so pack an umbrella.
- Walk as much as possible: Philadelphia is a walkable city, especially around Old City and the historic district.
- Eat local: Try the city’s famous cheesesteaks at Pat’s or Geno’s, and don’t miss out on soft pretzels from local street vendors.
- Visit early: Popular attractions like the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall can get crowded, so visit early to avoid the lines.