What Should You Pack for Seoul?
Seoul has four distinct seasons, so pack accordingly! In spring and fall, light layers like sweaters and long sleeve shirts are great for the cooler mornings and evenings, while short sleeves are perfect for the warmer afternoons. Summer is hot and humid, so bring light, breathable clothing and don’t forget a rain jacket or umbrella for those sudden downpours. In winter, pack warm clothing like a heavy coat, gloves, and scarves to stay cozy in the cold, especially if you’re sightseeing outside.
Make sure you’re prepared for: Visiting Gyeongbokgung Palace, exploring Bukchon Hanok Village, hiking Namsan, shopping in Myeongdong, and enjoying Korean street food.
Dress Code
Seoul has a trendy yet modest fashion style. During the day, casual but stylish outfits like jeans, skirts, and blouses are great for exploring the city’s cafés and shopping districts. For evenings out, dress up a bit with a nice dress or smart-casual attire, especially if you’re heading to upscale restaurants or nightlife spots in Gangnam. If you’re visiting palaces or temples, more modest attire (covering shoulders and knees) is recommended. Koreans love fashion, so don’t be afraid to dress up!
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Spring
50 – 70°F
(10 – 21°C
)
Summer
70 – 85°F
(21 – 29°C
)
Fall
55 – 75°F
(13 – 24°C
)
Winter
20 – 40°F
(-6 – 4°C
)
Spring: Cool mornings, sunny afternoons, occasional rain
Summer: Hot and humid with frequent rain
Fall: Mild & cool, some rain
Winter: Cold and dry, occasional snowfall
Spring
4.5 inches of rain
Summer
11.0 inches of rain
Fall
3.6 inches of rain
Winter
0.9 inches of rain
Tops & Layers
1. Short Sleeve Shirts: Great for warm afternoons and shopping—I loved having these for days exploring the city.
2. Long Sleeve Shirts: Perfect for cooler mornings and evenings.
3. Sweaters: Ideal for layering when the weather is unpredictable, especially in spring and fall.
4. Tank Tops: Useful for hot summer days when you’re walking around the markets.
5. Casual Jacket: Great for cooler evenings and transitioning between seasons.
Bottoms & Dresses
1. Pants: Comfortable for walking around Seoul’s neighborhoods—I really liked these for both casual and semi-formal settings!
2. Leggings: Perfect for layering or wearing with long tops.
3. Dresses: Great for evenings out or sightseeing at temples.
4. Skirt: A versatile option for day trips and casual dining.
5. Shorts: Pack for the summer heat if you plan on walking a lot or lounging in the parks.
Shoes & Accessories
1. Shoes: Comfortable walking shoes are essential for exploring Seoul’s markets and palaces—I really liked how practical these were for all the walking!
2. Sandals: Useful for the hot summer days when you want something breathable.
3. Sunglasses: Seoul gets plenty of sunny days, so don’t forget these!
4. Hat: Ideal for sun protection while exploring outdoor attractions.
5. Swimsuit: Great if you’re planning to visit one of the city’s water parks.
6. Pajamas: Lightweight and comfortable for the warm or cool nights in your hotel or apartment.
Luggage & Packs
1. Carry-On: Perfect for keeping your essentials handy during your trip.
2. Daypack: Great for carrying your gear while exploring Seoul’s neighborhoods.
3. Purse: Useful for carrying personal items while shopping in Myeongdong or visiting restaurants.
4. Tote Bag: Great for carrying extra layers or any shopping finds from Seoul’s markets and boutiques.
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: Seoul’s weather changes between seasons, so layering is key for comfort.
- Comfortable shoes: Seoul is a city for walking, so pack shoes that are comfortable for sightseeing and shopping.
- Rain gear: Summer can bring heavy rain, so a light rain jacket or umbrella is essential.
- Sun protection: In summer, pack sunscreen and a hat for outdoor activities like exploring the palaces or hiking.
Seoul Travel FAQs
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT SEOUL?
October is the best month to visit Seoul because the weather is mild, the fall foliage is beautiful, and there are fewer tourists. October’s also great because the humidity is lower, and you can enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and exploring the palaces.
WHAT FESTIVALS & EVENTS ARE THERE IN SEOUL?
Seoul Lantern Festival (November): Held along the Cheonggyecheon Stream, it features thousands of beautiful lanterns and is great for families and couples.
Seoul Kimchi Making & Sharing Festival (November): A fun and educational festival about kimchi, perfect for solo travelers and foodies.
Cherry Blossom Festival (April): A popular event for couples and families to enjoy the cherry blossoms at Yeouido Park.
WHERE SHOULD I GO IN SEOUL?
Seoul offers a mix of historic sites, modern shopping, and beautiful nature spots. One of my favorite places to visit is Gyeongbokgung Palace, where you can see the changing of the guard and tour the beautiful grounds. Don’t miss Bukchon Hanok Village for traditional Korean houses, and head to N Seoul Tower on Namsan Mountain for the best views of the city. If you love shopping, Myeongdong is a must-visit for Korean cosmetics and fashion. For a more relaxed day, visit the parks along the Han River for a peaceful escape.
HOW MANY DAYS DO I NEED TO VISIT SEOUL?
4-5 days is ideal for experiencing Seoul’s main attractions, shopping, and cultural sites. A shorter trip can cover the highlights.
Suggested Itineraries:
2 Days: On day one, explore Gyeongbokgung Palace, walk through Bukchon Hanok Village, and end with shopping in Myeongdong. Spend day two hiking Namsan and visiting N Seoul Tower, then relax by the Han River.
5 Days: Copy the 2-day itinerary and add: On day three, visit the DMZ for a unique experience, then enjoy Korean barbecue for dinner. On day four, explore the trendy neighborhoods of Hongdae and Itaewon. On day five, visit COEX Mall and Bongeunsa Temple.
1 Week: Copy the 5-day itinerary and add: On day six, visit Lotte World for some fun rides and shopping. On day seven, explore the Seongsu-dong neighborhood, known for its cafés and art galleries.
10 Days: Copy the 1-week itinerary and add: On day eight, take a day trip to Nami Island for a peaceful nature escape. Spend day nine visiting the Gwangjang Market to taste Korean street food. On day ten, relax at a traditional Korean spa (jjimjilbang).
2 Weeks: Copy the 10-day itinerary and add: On day eleven, visit Everland Theme Park for a full day of fun. Spend day twelve at Changdeokgung Palace and its Secret Garden. On days thirteen and fourteen, explore Gangnam’s shopping districts and the nightlife scene.
WHAT SHOULD I PACK FOR 2 DAYS, 5 DAYS, 1 WEEK, 10 DAYS, AND 2 WEEKS IN SEOUL?
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 SEOUL?
Heavy winter coats: Seoul’s winters are cold, but layering with sweaters and a medium-weight jacket is usually enough.
High heels: With all the walking and public transport, comfortable shoes are a better option.
WHAT SHOULD I BUDGET FOR A TRIP TO SEOUL ?
Airfare: $700-$1,500 depending on your starting location and season. Flights are pricier during spring and fall.
Accommodation: $50-$200 per night depending on the hotel or Airbnb. Rates can be higher during major festivals.
Transportation: $10-$30 per day for public transit or taxis.
Meals: $20-$60 per day, with cheap options at local markets and pricier dining in restaurants.
Activities: $20-$50 per day for entry to museums, palaces, and other attractions.
IS THERE A TIPPING CULTURE IN SEOUL? WHAT IS APPROPRIATE TO TIP?
No, tipping is not customary in South Korea, and service charges are often included in restaurant bills. Tipping is not expected in taxis or hotels either.
WHAT ARE SOME LOCAL TIPS I SHOULD KNOW ABOUT SEOUL BEFORE I VISIT?
- Public transportation: Seoul’s subway system is efficient and affordable, so use it to get around the city easily.
- WiFi is everywhere: Many cafés, subways, and public places offer free WiFi, so staying connected is easy.
- Dress modestly: While Seoul is trendy, modest clothing is appreciated, especially when visiting temples or palaces.
- Street food: Seoul’s street food is amazing, so try snacks like tteokbokki and hotteok in markets like Gwangjang.