9 Things to Pack for Unpredictable Fall Weather

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Autumn is a gorgeous but fickle season. Temperatures can drop from warm to freezing as soon as the sun sets, clear skies can suddenly turn into rain, and it can feel like summer one day and winter the next.

This mercurial quality of fall weather presents a unique challenge for travelers: How do you pack for a fall trip without bringing two separate wardrobes? The key lies in strategic packing—choosing versatile pieces that can adapt to various weather conditions and be layered or worn separately as needed. Read on to see nine items that belong on your fall packing list.

Extra Layers

In fall, temperatures can fluctuate quite a bit throughout the day. If you’re leaving your hotel room early in the morning and not returning until after sunset, you’ll want to pack an extra layer that you can throw on if you get chilly.

We recommend Icebreaker’s 300 MerinoFine Polar Long Sleeve Half Zip Thermal Top as the perfect packable layer. This slim zip-up can be worn over a short-sleeve shirt or underneath a jacket and weighs just 9.17 ounces—providing extra warmth without adding bulk. 

Made from an incredibly fine merino wool fabric, this long-sleeve will help regulate your temperature in both hot and cold weather and resist odor even on longer trips without access to a washing machine. 

Packable Jacket

Patagonia’s Micro Puff jacket has been beloved by travelers for years thanks to its ultra-light weight and packability. For trips when you need something even warmer without sacrificing portability, the brand has recently introduced a Macro Puff version. This new jacket offers enhanced insulation while maintaining a relatively lightweight and compact profile. 

The Macro Puff uses PlumaFill, a unique synthetic insulation that’s more water-resistant than down. Its shell is crafted from recycled fishing nets, aligning with Patagonia’s commitment to sustainability. 

The jacket boasts several practical features, including a helmet-compatible hood, multiple pockets, elasticized cuff closures, and a dual-adjust cord-lock system at the hem to seal out cold air. Perhaps most impressively, it can be compressed into its own pocket for easy packing.

Waterproof Footwear

Nothing will put a damper on your day faster than walking around with wet feet, so pack a reliable pair of waterproof boots on your fall trip. We always pack Danner’s Vertigo 917 Boots, because they can handle any travel situation. With a sleek all-black leather design, the Vertigos transition seamlessly from outdoor adventures to stylish city outings or restaurant dinners. 

But don’t let their fashionable appearance fool you—these boots are built for performance. A GORE-TEX liner ensures complete waterproofing without sacrificing breathability. The removable OrthoLite Footbed features three layers of support and cushioning, so we can walk in these for miles. 

Speaking of walking for miles, these boots are durable enough to handle a mountain hike, so you don’t have to pack multiple pairs of footwear if you want to see some fall foliage on your trip.

Windproof Umbrella

For many destinations, fall is the rainy season. Be prepared by packing a travel-sized umbrella. We like Repel’s version, which has a double-vented canopy and fiberglass-covered frame designed to withstand strong wind without flipping inside out and breaking.

It’s small enough to fit easily in your day bag but large enough to provide adequate cover even during a heavy downpour.

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Sunscreen

Fall isn’t all cozy weather and pumpkin spice vibes—it can also mean sunny, 80-degree days. Many travelers have been caught by the strong sun and wound up with painful sunburns, even in September. 

We like packing sunscreen sticks like this one from Neutrogena, as we can throw them in our bags without worrying about spills or leaks. 

Wool Socks

When you risk encountering either wet weather or hot and humid temperatures, wool socks are a must for travelers planning to walk a lot during their trip. We always pack Smartwool’s Classic Hike Socks, which are the perfect height to wear with boots. 

These socks feature light cushioning to give a little bit of extra support on the bottom of the foot, along with a Merino wool/Nylon blend to keep your feet dry no matter what the weather conditions. 

A Water Bottle That Does Double Duty for Hot and Cold

Some days, you’ll want ice-cold water, and on others, you’ll need piping-hot coffee to get you through the day. Pack a beverage bottle that can handle both, like Thermos’ Icon Dual Temp. 

Utilizing Thermos’ trademarked vacuum insulation technology, this bottle can keep drinks hot for up to 14 hours and cold for up to 24. We love the wide-mouth design, which allows you to add ice and the fact that the bottle is dishwasher safe, making it a breeze to clean once you get home. 

A Great Moisturizer 

If you’ve ever stepped off of a long flight feeling incredibly thirsty, you’re well aware that airplane cabins can be dehydrating. Combine that with dry fall weather, and you have a recipe for parched, itchy, and tight skin that can leave you uncomfortable during your trip. 

To combat dry skin, pack a good moisturizer to use on your travels. We recommend The Organic Skin Co.’s Travel Pack, a perfectly travel-sized set of cleanser, moisturizer, and face oil that helps lock in moisture, even in dry climates. 

Tights 

Unsure about the weather for your trip? Packing a pair or two of tights is a simple way to prepare for various temperatures while expanding your wardrobe options.

We suggest bringing a lightweight, long-sleeved casual dress as a versatile piece. On warmer days, wear it with bare legs; when it’s cooler, simply add tights for extra warmth. This combination gives you flexibility without overpacking.

Tights are particularly useful for evening transitions. Instead of packing a separate dinner outfit, you can easily elevate your daytime look by slipping on a pair of tights. This saves space in your luggage and time in your schedule.

For maximum adaptability, we like Smartwool’s Active Fleece Tights. Lined with soft-brushed merino wool, these tights are super warm and cozy without being too heavy to layer. Wear them under a dress and with boots to cover up the more active features (the pockets and reflective elements), or rock them solo for a workout or fall hike. 

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