When I travelled to San Francisco for the first time I packed elegant dresses, high heels, and cumbersome jewelry. You’re probably amused by this if you’re a San Fran native or have already vacationed there. Half-way into day one of my trip I was hurting, uncomfortable, and freezing cold. My cluelessness of northern California weather finally took a toll and made my vacation wholly unpleasant. So, let my experience be a teacher and do not pack as if you are going to a cocktail party. While I was there I ended up at Old Navy, Niketown, and Walgreens to remedy my poor packing choices. I spent money on a fleece jacket, jeans, sneakers, and Advil. This money would have been better spent enjoying my vacation. Fear not, I’m here to help you tackle San Francisco’s “hills that kill” and cool weather. I’ll spare you the pain and agony I went through with this list of top ten items to conquer your California vacay.
1. Bring along a lightweight jacket or coat.
Patagonia ‘Torrentshell’ Women’s Jacket ($129)
2. Wear lightweight and comfy sneakers on days with lots of walking.
New Balance ‘Fresh Foam Cruz’ Sneakers ($80)
3. Pack a pair of stylish jeans to pair with any top.
AG Adriano Goldschmied ‘The Middi Ankle’ Iconic Skinny Jeans ($198)
4. A comfy and trendy scarf is essential.
Kate Spade ‘Souk’ Tassel Scarf ($108)
5. Pain relief is always in fashion.
Advil Liqui-Gels ($4.50)
6. Pack a light sweater/sweatshirt for cool mornings and nights.
Topshop Embroidered Flower Sweatshirt ($55)
7. Use a purse that is backpack style or crossover.
Madewell ‘Transport’ Leather Rucksack ($178)
8. Wear a warm hat or beanie to keep out the wind.
Canada Goose Slouchy Basketweave Beanie ($95)
9. Pack black leggings for versatility and comfort.
Spanx ‘Essential’ Very Black Leggings ($98)
10. Let flats be your dressy shoes.
Børn ‘Kharen’ Wraparound Lace Flats ($64)
Thank you all so much for reading my guide. I truly hope it was helpful for you. San Francisco is a one-of-a-kind destination with beautiful and unique neighborhoods. What would you pack for San Francisco? What are your favorite comfy fashion brands? Comment below!
XOXO,
Victoria
💯💯💯👆
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Thanks so much 🙂
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Hey Victoria, am sorry that your vacation turned into a nightmare…. It’s always good to do a bit of research when heading to a new place, and I guess I have great tips already when packing for San Francisco, courtesy of your blog.
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Thank you for this post we will take you advice .
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I live in the Bay area and your advice is spot on. I always see tourists buying sweatshirts on Fisherman’s wharf. Also good for folks to remember the city is FREEZING in summer.
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The wind is so icy cold! Thanks for leaving a comment, I appreciate it. xoxo
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Excellent advice! I must admit, I did chuckle at your comment about those of us who have been there. Very true about the clothing required. Good job!
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That tassel scarf is just awesome!
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Thanks, I appreciate your comment.
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thanks for good advices..
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So true. Great tips
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Great advice.. I’ve been to San Francisco and can relate to your tips.. Luckily for me i had some friends who had helped me out then …
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It’s good to have friends in the city. Thanks Sabeeka! 🙂 xo
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I’m so guilty of packing like a monkey lol! Your ideas are great. Thank you so much
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Thank you so much for the sweet comment 🙂
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I love the outfit! I actually am going to Chicago and packed an outfit quite similar to this!
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Thanks so much for commenting! 🙂 Enjoy Chicago, it’s a lovely city
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This is so good to know! Thanks for sharing! I would have made the same mistake.
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Hey I m sorry to hear that you had to encounter so many hassles during your vacation.But experience is the best teacher and it would be wise to do some research before going to a place
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That’s very true. Experience is sometimes bittersweet. 🙂
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The first time I visited San Francisco was wardrobe nightmare, wish I had your insights and suggestions back then, would have saved me a lot of money!
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We’ve lived and learned. Thanks for commenting 🙂
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Lol. Great tips. Sending to my GF now 🙂
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Thank you, Roby 🙂 I appreciate it
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Great picks! Love the outfit! Thanks for sharing!
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Thank you, Sara! 🙂
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Visited San Francisco a few years ago and yes is a lot of walking.
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Great packing list for travel. It’s easy to want to bring fancy and dressy items on vacation, but in the end comfort always wins (for me at least). The pieces you show here look stylish and comfy.
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Thank you so much Rebecca. I appreciate your sweet comment. 🙂
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Hi Victoria! I’m sorry to hear your San Fran experience was such a bust! Hopefully you ended up finding some fun things to do to take your mind off of the weather. Thanks for the good tips!
Meg
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Hello Meg! Thanks so much for your comment. San Francisco has so much to do; I just love it there. xoxo
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I love your writing style! You made me feel like I was there with you for your trip. I’ve never been to San Francisco and so this was a really great read! And I would actually purchase every item you recommended here. My rain jacket looks exactly like the one you picked out. Great job!
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Thank you so much. I hope you make to San Francisco one day; it’s a gorgeous place. Just be sure to dress warm! 🙂 xoxo
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Good to know. I would’ve never guessed it would be cold. I assumed hot weather! I hope to one day visit San Fran! I’m over on the east coast. Thanks for the heads up!!
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I know, me too. I thought sunny California. It’s a gorgeous city though. Thanks for commenting . xo
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This is helpful. Shared it with a friend who is going soon
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I appreciate it, Erika! xo
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What a carefully curated list! This makes me want to pack my things and head off to SF for the weekend!
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Take me! 🙂 Thanks for commenting. xo
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This is a well thought out survival guide to ‘Frisco Victoria.Nothing beats experience huh? 🙂
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Experience is a tough teacher sometimes. Thanks Brian! Xoxo
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I love this post, especially the NB 🙂
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Thanks so much!!! They are cute xo
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