London guide
🇬🇧 Packing List
What to pack for London
In January, London is typically cold, expect showers (2°C - 8°C). Pick the month you travel and the list changes with it.
London essentials
- Smart-casual outfits (skip gym wear for dinners)
Documents
- Photo ID
- Passport (valid 6+ months)
- Visa / e-visa printout
- Return / onward flight tickets
- Travel insurance policy
- Hotel booking confirmations
- Passport-size photographs (2-4)
- Photocopies / phone photos of passport and tickets, stored separately
Clothing
- Casual day outfits
- One smart-casual outfit for dinners
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Warm insulated coat
- Thermal base layers
- Warm hat, gloves and scarf
- Warm socks
- Light rain jacket or poncho
- Compact umbrella
- Undergarments and sleepwear
- Enough outfits for 7 days (6 sets)
- Warm mid-layers (fleece or wool)
- Waterproof shoes or boots
- One dressy evening outfit for celebrations
Toiletries & health
- Toothbrush, toothpaste, and toiletries
- Sunscreen (SPF 30+)
- Personal medication with prescription
- Basic first-aid: band-aids, painkillers, ORS
- Hand sanitiser and wet wipes
- Lip balm and moisturiser for cold, dry air
- Food hygiene standards are very high across the UK — all restaurants have mandatory FSA hygiene ratings displayed. Tap water is...
Electronics
- Phone and charger
- Power bank
- Camera (optional)
- Power adaptor: Type G plugs (3-pin), 230V. UK adaptor essential.
Money
- Debit / credit cards
- Local currency: British Pound (GBP)
- Cards widely accepted. Contactless everywhere. Some places cashless only.
Local know-how
- Local SIM: EE, Vodafone, Three, Giffgaff. Buy at airports or high street shops. Good coverage.
- Small coins for paid public toilets
- Unlicensed minicabs outside clubs/stations — only use black cabs (metered) or pre-booked apps (Uber/Bolt)
- January highlights: New Year's Day Parade; London International Mime Festival