London essentials: what to pack for a trip to London

June 25, 2026

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Packing for London is deceptively tricky. There are a few London essentials that some people just don’t think to pack.

As an American living here since 2013, countless friends and family members have arrived unprepared. They didn’t realize what they needed, couldn’t find the right items locally or simply learned the hard way that some things aren’t the same in the UK.

Whether it’s navigating the tube with ease, dealing with unpredictable weather, or avoiding the telltale signs of a tourist packing in their suitcases, these London essentials will help you feel at home while integrating as a foreigner. Trust me!

(And if you want to know more about my London travel tips, this is just one section of my London travel guide. You’ll find out more at the end.)

Unique Things to Pack for Your Trip to London

London essentials go beyond the basics. These elements represent the unique character of the city and ensure a hassle-free experience.

1. UK plug adapter

UK type G plugs are incompatible with US and EU devices without an adapter. Save yourself the stress of making a last-minute purchase at the airport where prices are inflated. Instead, get a universal adapter on Amazon before traveling. Look for one with USB ports for charging multiple devices simultaneously.

Many more modern hotels will have multiple USB ports in the rooms for charging your equipment. However, let’s be honest and recognize that London is OLD compared to the US and many hotels will not have these updates.

2. Bar soap

Many British hotels offer liquid soap instead of bar soap. While it’s not necessarily disappointing, this unfamiliarity can seem annoying. If you prefer to use a bar, bring one to stick with your routine. It’s a small comfort that can make your stay easier.

3. Elastic cord

Navigating the subway with luggage can be chaotic. A small elastic secures your bag to an end seat, preventing it from sliding down the carriage as the train moves forward. I always keep mine in the outside pocket of my carry-on so it’s ready to go when I take the tube after a red-eye trip to London. It’s helpful to have a colorful one so you can find it quickly.

4. Phone Case with Ring Holder

Mobile phone theft is one of the most common crimes tourists (and Londoners) face. A ring holder on your phone case serves as a subtle deterrent and reduces the risk of accidental falls when taking photos. Or you can use a phone case with a strap. Busy areas like Covent Garden, Leicester Square and Southbank are particularly busy, so keep your phone safe.

5. Washcloths

Washcloths are not always provided in British hotels. If they are part of your daily routine, bring your own to avoid frustration. They are lightweight and don’t take up much space but can make a big difference. Once again, you can find some cheap washcloths on Amazon.

6. PORTABLE FAN

If you’ve been watching the weather in London in the summer, you’ve noticed some serious heatwaves. Temperatures can reach 90°F and above for days. Most of London (including hotels and subways) does not have air conditioning. You will need a portable fan to survive.

7. Over-the-counter medications

If you rely on brands like Tylenol, Aleve Or melatoninbring them with you. These staples are not available in UK pharmacies. This term is interchangeable with the American expression “pharmacy”.

You’ll find that Boots, Americans’ closest equivalent to Walgreens, can stock “alternatives.” Be aware that local brands may not work the same way or contain different active ingredients. In fact, the only time I took Paracetamol here (the equivalent of “Tylenol”), I felt nauseous.

I always bring Aleve with me when I visit the US so I have a full stock for my life in London.

8. Alcohol Rubbing Wipes

Practical for disinfecting or cleaning small cuts, alcohol wipes are invaluable. I have never been able to find a bottle of rubbing alcohol as sold in the United States. In fact, when I first tried to buy some in London, no one even knew what I was asking for! Bring these wipes to avoid confusion. Oh, and they don’t sell Neosporin here either.

9. Sensible walking shoes

Walking is the best way to explore London, so bring durable, comfortable shoes. Cobblestones, uneven sidewalks and subway station gaps are unforgiving. Flip-flops or open-toed shoes will only slow you down and make your feet unhappy.

A friend of mine who went to the Paris Olympics and then came to London shared with me her story of disaster in France. She didn’t realize she would have to climb the stairs to the top of the Eiffel Tower and was mistakenly wearing flip flops that day. It was not an easy climb.

Wear shoes with sturdy soles. Pun intended.

10. Clothing adapted to weather conditions

Layers are your best friend in unpredictable London weather. A waterproof jacket or compact umbrella is essential. Remember that most metro trains do not have air conditioning. Light clothing is therefore useful even in the colder months. Extra tip: Londoners tend to wear black. Bright colors or white will immediately label you as a tourist.

11. Handbag with interior zipper pockets

Tourist hotspots can attract pickpockets. A handbag with zippered compartments provides an extra layer of security for your wallet and other valuables. Keep everything organized and avoid becoming an easy target. Although I often travel around London with a backpack, I always make sure that the exterior compartments only hold inexpensive items.

These are things like pens, hand sanitizer, Kleenex, paper, and hand cream. Deeply buried inside are things like my Oyster card, credit cards, etc.

London Essentials: The Basics of Packing for a Trip to London

Beyond these unique London essentials, be sure to pack the basics for a complete wardrobe.

Clothes– Choose neutral tones like black, navy blue or gray. This not only helps you blend in, but also makes it easier to mix and match outfits. A nice outfit for a theater night or an upscale dinner is also worth bringing. Black pants (or trousers) go with everything!

Toiletries: UK pharmacies stock most items, but bring travel-sized versions of your favorites in case they’re not available.

Travel documents: Include your passport, travel insurance and accommodation details. Consider a money belt or secure pouch for added protection. I also make sure these items are in colorful covers. Once in a taxi, my black Prada wallet fell as we were getting out. It was only thanks to the honesty of the taxi driver that he was found.

Since then, I always buy wallets in bright colors so that I can quickly find them in my purse or near me if they find their way.

You can get more tips for visiting London, including itineraries prepared for you, in my London trip planners. As well as the iconic 3-day diary, you can get a London Christmas guide and a restaurant guide. Packages are the best deal!

London Trip Planners

vip-london-route-planner-sunnyinlondon-travel-guide

1:1 travel consultations

Iconic London 2026 3 Day Trip Planner

Trip-Planner-London-SunnyinLondon-Christmas-in-London-Travel-Planner

Ultimate Guide to Christmas in London

insiders-guide-to-london-sunny-restaurants-in-london

London Restaurant Guide

Packing cubes: your non-negotiable London essential

Packing cubes are a game changer for any trip, especially if you plan to visit other cities in England or continue on to Paris. I love them because my outfits are together and coordinated in cubes by activity and location. I don’t spend unnecessary time packing and unpacking when I arrive at new hotels or cities. Plus, they maximize space, which is essential if you’re packing multiple layers to brave London’s unpredictable weather.

If you are traveling by Eurostar to Paris, packing cubes become even more useful. You’ll have different things to do in London and Paris and you’ll want to look ready for anything. For my best Eurostar travel tips, don’t miss my article on Taking the Eurostar: your ideal train from London to Paris.

Investing in a set of durable packing cubes ensures that your trip to London (and beyond) is hassle-free and stress-free. This is one of the best travel investments I’ve made.

Hotels in London

If you haven’t yet booked your hotel for your trip to London, here’s an interactive map to help you get started! It is based on the most central location in the city.

Why packing London essentials is important

Having these essentials on hand will make London feel more familiar in a foreign environment. You will fit in better with the crowd, which will make you less susceptible to the hassles that tourists often face. Those who stand out in bright colors, casually holding their phones on the street, are prime targets for anything that is not legitimate.

You can’t really pretend you’re here to explore “hidden gems” when you look like you’ve just stepped off a tour bus to Stonehenge. Packing smart is a simple way to start your trip off on the right foot, avoiding unnecessary stress and literally headaches!

What is the most unexpected item that you have found useful while traveling? Share your tips in the comments and ask me all your questions about visiting London and things to do in London!

Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I may earn a commission if you make a purchase through them. It costs you nothing extra and helps support the Sunny in London blog. THANKS!

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