Summary of New England Packing Tips
The Essentials You’ll Need for New England
New England is a four-season destination, which means that the clothing and other items you’ll want to pack will vary depending on the timing of your trip. Here are some basic suggestions to help you plan what to pack and how to dress for your trip to New England.
- Pack lightweight summer clothing—shorts, T-shirts, polo shirts, sundresses—for visits between late June and early September. However, be sure to bring along a pair of long pants or jeans and a jacket or sweater, especially if you’re visiting coastal areas.
- For beachside or lakefront destinations, bathing suits, towels, and sunscreen are essential, especially if your hotel has a swimming pool. Moreover, some New England hotels feature outdoor pools that remain open through the winter.
- In spring (April through late June) and fall (mid-September through early November), temperatures can drop significantly at night even when daytime temperatures are moderate. Therefore, it’s advisable to dress in layers and bring a warmer jacket or raincoat.
- A compact umbrella is always a smart choice, regardless of the season. Sunglasses are also a necessity year-round.
- If you plan to visit between November and March, prepare with a warm winter coat, scarf, waterproof boots, and gloves or mittens. Ear muffs or a head wrap are also wise to pack for outdoor winter activities. Furthermore, due to unpredictable winter storms, ensure your vehicle is equipped with a snow scraper, windshield washer fluid, blankets, and emergency supplies.
- Comfortable walking shoes are a must—New England is best enjoyed on foot.
- Don’t forget to pack any prescription medications you may need, brochures for sightseeing, confirmations for hotel and other reservations, tickets, passports, and your credit/debit cards or ATM cards.
- If you’re planning a skiing vacation, you can bring your own gear or rent equipment available at the slopes.
- Remember your camera, and take plenty of digital storage media. Photography supplies are usually more expensive at your New England destination.
- Lastly, double-check that you’ve packed chargers for all of your electronic devices: cell phone, tablet, laptop, e-reader, and camera.
Smarter Packing Tips for New England Vacationers
- Many hotels provide hair dryers and toiletry items such as shampoo, soap, and body lotion, but it’s wise to inquire beforehand. However, B&Bs are less likely to offer these amenities.
- You may need to supply your own linens at vacation rental accommodations; it’s beneficial to ask ahead.
- If you’re traveling to New Hampshire or Maine during “black fly season” in late spring, ensure you bring along insect repellent specially formulated to deter black flies.
- As a rule, clothing tends to be fairly preppy and conservative in New England.
- Be prepared for spotty cell phone service, particularly in rural and mountainous areas, as well as in the tunnels around Boston. If you’re driving, it’s wise to print directions or bring a traditional map.
- Pair a denim button-down shirt tied at the waist with either a cotton skirt or jeans for a visit to a New England farmer’s market or flea market.
- Sightseeing or shopping in Boston or one of New England’s other urban destinations? Leave your highest heels behind and choose comfortable flat shoes instead.
- Layering a scarf with your top or tossing a wrap in your bag is an excellent strategy, as New England’s weather is notoriously unpredictable.
- If you’re visiting campuses or attending college in New England, consider choosing comfortable yet conservative attire.
- Skinny jeans are trending, but if you’re headed to the beach—particularly in Maine where Atlantic waters are cold—pack pants that are easy to roll up so you can enjoy the water without fully committing.
- Follow New England fashion icons on Instagram for insights on the preppy look that many locals aspire to.
