Top style tips for the United Kingdom
- Like most of Western Europe there is no dress code as such and reallyanything is acceptable.
- Black is always a popularcolor, and smart casual clothes will help you fit right in.
- In the UKjeans are worn by everyone– young and old alike – and unless you are visiting more upscale restaurants they are perfectly acceptable to wear everywhere.
- But a fewup-market London venuesand country hotels do still have a ‘smart' dress code which is enforced (no jeans or sneakers, jacket and tie for gents) so check if you plan to dine in these places.
- Unless you are staying at a hotel with a swimming pool, or intend visiting a spa, or the beach in high summer –leave your swimsuit at homeas you're unlikely to need it.
- If youarehitting the beaches,regular swimwear / a bikiniis fine for swimming on the hottest days (July and August), but in spring and Fall wetsuits are popular (short or full length) to keep out the chill. From October to March it will be just too cold to swim, except for the very hardy!
- When out in the countryside you may be some distance from shelter if the weather turns bad;at all times of year go preparedwith a sweater, waterproof, snacks and drinking water. Take a mobile phone in case of emergency too.
- If you are looking for a highly versatile travel jacket to bring along we recommend theSCOTTeVESTrange. Their range of jackets have been specifically designed with traveling in mind and include RFID security (to protect your passport information), 23 secure pockets and personal connectivity integration.
Shoes to pack for the United Kingdom
- The best way to see many of the sites in the UK is to walk, andgood quality lightweight but smart walking shoes are recommended.For comfort and style we recommendHotter shoes, and they have something to suit all occasions.
- Save yourhigh heels for the evenings.
Pack for the weather
- The weather can bechangeablein the UK, from day to day and even hour to hour – it's not unknown to experience all four seasons in one day. Pack a lightweightraincoatandtravel umbrellawhatever time of year you visit, even in the summer.
- In thecooler monthsof November, December, January, February and March a warm coat, gloves, warm hat and a scarf are essential – and layer up.
- Dressing in layerswill help you cope with the temperature changes all year round.
- We love the Weather+ app – it gives an accurate 6 day forecast for day and night, which when you're planning from home is really helpful. You can keep all the places you've been to too – a nice way to remember your trip 🙂 Download for iPad/iPhone or Android
Clothing tips for women
- Jeans are always popular and will serve as aversatile baseto your wardrobe. Wear them with cool layers such ascamisolesand t-shirts for the summer, or warmer ones e.g. a long-sleeved shirt and sweater in the winter.
- A few well-chosen pieces ofcostume jewelrywill transform any outfit.
- Apashminais also aversatile piecethat will dress up any outfit too.
- The leather RedDog BagPod is a reallyversatile and stylish bag that can be used from day to evening. Wear it over the shoulder or convert it toa clutch, or use it to keep your belongingsand travel documentstidy and easy to find.
Clothing tips for men
- There are no specific things to bring to your attention, check out our packing list for our suggested capsule wardrobe.
Regions of the United Kingdom
- If walking along the coastal paths or in the hills or mountains, make sure you have appropriate footwear with good ankle support, as the terrain can be steep and uneven underfoot.Sturdy sneakers or walking shoesare fine in dry periods, but opt for boots with good grips in wet or muddy conditions. Don't try challenging walks in casual shoes, and certainly don't wear flip-flops – you'll be at risk of injury if you do.
- What to Wear in London
- What to Wear in Scotland
- What to Wear in Sussex
- What to Wear in The Cotswolds
Other things to pack
- To useelectrical gadgetsyou may need atravel adapter plug, and also astep down voltage converterif your devices are not designed forEuropean voltage (230V).
- Also take a comfyshoulder bagor day pack to carry yoursightseeing essentialsand keep your hands free.
- If you tend to buybottled water, consider carrying aLifeStraw Filtration Water Bottle– fill up from any source and get clean, safe drinking water without wasting plastic bottles.
- Avoid paying unexpectedbaggage fees– use an accurateluggage scaleto ensure you keep within the weight allowance. Don't forget to leave room forsouvenirson the way home!
- Save on packing andbuy your toiletries there. You'll find all the major brands and they are inexpensive.
Community photos of the UK
Torquay, Devon in September
