evening in San Fransisco – photo by Torbakhopper on Flickr CC
What to Wear in San Francisco
Many San Francisco vacations have been ruined because visitors misunderstand the climate. Although SF is in California, the weather is more like nearby Oregon, with average temperatures in the 50s and 60s. Days get warm, but evenings are nearly always cool. Rain and fog touch the city often, and the open air on the bay can leave you shivering in the belly of the ferry instead of enjoying the views on deck. Leave your bikini behind and follow this advice for your best SF vacation.
Your Jacket Will Be Your Best Friend
You may want a jacket or sweater during the day, and you’ll definitely want one in the evening. If you’re packing light, a fleece jacket will serve your needs. Fleece is lightweight, and won’t wrinkle even when stuffed in the bottom of your bag. Look for a close-fitting style that a rain shell will slip over easily, and check the tag for the words “wind resistant.”
foggy San Fransisco – photo by Swami Stream on Flickr CC
A Rain Shell Makes Your Jacket More Versatile
A lightweight rain shell does more than just protect you from the rain. You can layer the shell over your jacket for extra warmth when chilly winds blow. Look for a thin shell that you can stuff in your pocket. If you favor fashion over packing light, of course, you can bring a trench or a more stylish rain layer.
No One Is Kidding About Comfortable Shoes
You’ve probably heard many times that you should wear comfortable shoes. Don’t ignore this advice. Public transportation in San Francisco is excellent, but you will still do more walking than in many other cities. It’s hard to imagine how steep the hills are until you see them for yourself. Good walking shoes will support your arches and cushion your steps to reduce leg fatigue, backaches, knee pain and other potential trip-ruining issues. if you want to get a good pair, check out this review guide from Gear Hungry.
hiking in John Muir Woods – photo by ok sk onFlickr CC
Your Activities Determine What Else To Bring
Temperatures fluctuate widely around the Bay Area. Spend some time studying a good travel site like Gogobot, and think about what activities you’ll want to engage in. If you’ll be on a boat, you’ll want a very warm jacket, and maybe even a hat and gloves. Muir Woods has its own cooler, damper microclimate. If you’ll be going to theater or concerts, you’ll want something dressy in your bag.
Just a Few More Things to Pack
San Francisco is a very diverse community, but for the most part it’s a casual place. Jeans are welcome almost anywhere and can dress up or down. Close-fitting tees in lightweight washable wool make a perfect base layer, and a couple of long-sleeved shirts will round out your wardrobe. A roomy daypack will give you a place to carry your jacket and rain shell. Leave plenty of extra room in your daypack for souvenir shopping, because plastic bags have been outlawed in San Francisco.
When you see other tourists shivering or buying overpriced souvenir hoodies and hats for warmth, you’ll be so glad you packed properly.
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Hi! I'm Lash, an American nomadic world traveler who's been traveling solo since 1998. I’m passionate about traveling the world nomadically and then sharing it all with you. I hope to inspire you to travel the world, to entertain you with tales from the road, and to help you reach your travel dreams. Welcome! 
