What to Wear in Seattle – A Packing List

Seattle is my hometown and one of the most beautiful destinations in the US world. It’s a prime location for a city break as well as a jumping off point for outdoor activities in the nearby mountains, waterfalls and beaches. However, when planning a trip, it can be a bit difficult to figure out what to wear in Seattle. Lucky for you, I grew up here and spent most of my early 20s living in the area, so I’m basically an expert. Keep reading for the ultimate Seattle packing list!

What do people wear in Seattle?

Great question! While you don’t have to wear exactly what the locals do, it’s nice to fit in and be prepared for the interesting PNW weather! Luckily, Seattle fashion is pretty casual, favoring utility over style. However, staples of all Seattle outfits, no matter the season include layers, a waterproof element and dry-wicking underlayers. Main staples are;

• Undies that aren’t cotton (the rain makes them stick, especially if you’re doing anything active like hiking, biking, kayaking or any other stereotypical PNW sport!). Pack enough for each day of your trip.

• Rain jacket – either a waterproof winter one or a light windbreaker depending on the season.

• 2 Long sleeves for each week with at least one quick dry material.

• 2 Short sleeve for each week of your trip.

• 1 – 2 pairs of leggings – fleece lined in winter and active/quick dry for the rest.

• 1 – 2 pairs of jeans or pants of your choice.

• 1 Fleece/wool jacket  – for the colder months, i.e.; October – March.

• Scarf – one is enough, unless you’re planning a longer trip and want to switch it up each week.

• Hat – stocking or warmer variety for the winter.

• Socks – enough for each day of your trip and at least 2 wool pairs for each week of your trip if traveling in winter.

In the end, there’s no one single way to dress in Seattle, but layers and waterproofing are ALWAYS a must!

What to wear in Seattle: SHOES

This is important! In the temperate Pacific Northwest, it rains A LOT no matter the season and the weather can change on a dime. I’m guessing if you’re coming to the area you are active (or don’t mind being so) and are planning on exploring the city and area by foot a lot (one of the best ways) AND hiking nearby (or further afield) mountains. If not, take this as your cue to do so!

Here are my main recommendations for shoes in Seattle. Feel free to mix and match depending on what kind of trip you’re planning and your personal preferences!

• Rain boots – pretty much a necessity year-round if you’re planning on exploring outside a lot. Notable exceptions are the dry months of July and August.

• Waterproof hiking boots – these can be stand ins for rain boots, I’d choose one or the other to save space. If you’re planning on heading to the mountains for hiking, go with these, otherwise rain boots should suffice. You can also get away with wearing hiking boots as casual/around town in the PNW – as long as they’re not TOO muddy.

• Spray other boots/winter wear – if you bring other spring/fall/winter boots or booties, make sure you spray them with waterproofing spray. Allow a few days for it to try and set in before your trip!

• Running shoes – like hiking boots, good for running, hitting the gym while you’re here AND hiking, but are also acceptable as casual “about town” footwear.

• Sandales/flip flops – if you’re visiting in the summer make sure to bring a pair for beach days, otherwise leave ‘em at home!

*Unpopular opinion, Birkenstocks (hallmark of PNW style) are ugly IMO. But, if you like ‘em, you’ll fit right in!

What to pack for Seattle: Other Stuff

So clothing and footwear are the main things you need to worry about, but there are also some Seattle must haves you should try and include –

• Reusable water bottle – you’ll be spoiled with PNW tap water, no need to buy plastic bottles!

• Reusable coffee tumbler – most coffeeshops in the area will give you a discount for this too – bonus!

• A good purse (Adventurous Kate has LOTS of good recs).

• Waterproof shell for purse and/or backpack.

• Compostable or reusable cutlery and straws.

• Reusable shopping bag – groceries, laundry, it’s just good to have.

ARE YOU SEEING A THEME?? HAHAHA.

**IMPORTANT: NOT AN UMBRELLA. Counterintuitive I know, but people are weirdly proud about not using them here, so unless it’s a big investment to get a key few rain gear items before your trip or move, leave it at home! Otherwise EVERYONE will know you’re from out of town, which isn’t necessarily a bad thing, but like makes you more of a target for scams and petty crime. File this away especially if you’re doing a move or longer stay in the area under “what to know before moving to Seattle”.

What to wear in Seattle: Hiking and in Nature

The Seattle dress code is pretty, universal no matter what activity you’re up to. So, I’d stand by my recommendations made above with a few additions –

• Backpack/day pack for the trails.

• LOTS of extra socks, thin layering kinds and wool ones depending on the season (make sure to throw a pair or two in your backpack in case of wearing a hole on the trail!).

• Lifestraw – for filtering while in the outdoors.

• Reusable bowl for your dog – practical for back home too!

• Compass – you won’t always have service in the outdoors!

• Paper maps – again, you won’t always have service outdoors!

• Discover Pass – for state parks and loads of trails, can be purchased online here or at most parks/parking lots.

I hope you’ve enjoyed this packing list for Seattle! And that you enjoy the Seattle clothing style (VERY laid back) while you’re here!

What are some things you’d recommend visitors to your hometown pack? Let me know in the comments!

Featured Photo Credit: Eric Zhang on Unsplash