What to Pack for Portland Oregon
Portland has always been a top destination for those who enjoy being in the presence of nature. This quirky city located in the Pacific Northwest has made itself known around the country for unconventionality, environmentalism, and a thriving art and hipster scene. This is complimented by delicious restaurants that any foodie would enjoy.
Given the city’s unique characteristics, it’s no wonder thousands of people come and enjoy its many offerings. Whether it’s a day trip or an overnight weekend trip, it’s always a good time when visiting Portland.
We hope this Portland packing list is helpful when planning for your upcoming trip to the Rose City.
>> Scroll down to access our free Portland Packing Checklist <<
What to Pack: Portland Essentials
Let’s start with highly recommended essential items that are particular to packing Portland and the Pacific Northwest.
Disclosure: This free article contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase after clicking one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Your support helps us continue to provide helpful, free content for you.
Reusable Water Bottles
Portlanders are all about sustainable living. While in the city, you’ll be sure to do a lot of walking, biking, and maybe even hiking. Avoid single use plastics and keep yourself hydrated while on the go with your own reusable water bottle!
Our Sahara water bottle is excellent for staying cold, regardless of the outside temperature. Put an ice cube in there in the morning, there’s a good chance it will still be intact at the end of the day! They’re a bit hefty but we’ve managed to cart them around on all of our trips.
We Recommend: Tiger Cool Sports Bottle Black 1.0L
Lightweight Raincoat
You never know what kind of weather you’ll find yourself in when you travel to Portland. For a good part of the year, the chance of rain can be pretty high.
A pro-tip for these unforeseen situations is to carry a lightweight rain jacket with you. This is a practical choice as it’s less bulky and takes up less space compared to a compact umbrella. A good light raincoat makes all the difference in the world especially when you’re traveling.
We’ve shared some ideas on finding the right light-weight travel jackets for you if you’re looking for the right rain gear or other light weight layers.
Good Shoes
The best type of shoes for Portland will vary based on time of year (see below for seasonal tips). On rainy days, it can help to have water resistant or waterproof shoes.
Generally, Portland is very walkable, so it’s a good idea to have a good pair of comfortable walking shoes.
Day Bag
A small backpack is great for a day hike, a trip on TriMet, or visiting a coffeeshop to get a little work done. Our daypack typically holds a water bottle, camera, phone, snacks or a packed lunch, light jackets, and any important documents if necessary.
We Recommend: REI Co-op Flash 25 Pack
See our travel bag recommendations here
Toiletries
The essential of the most essential items that any traveler should have on their Portland trip would be their personal toiletries. From natural deodorant to toothbrush and toothpaste, we’ve included all of the must have items in our free Portland packing list download.
For the ladies, see our minimalist toiletries list for women to help you pack for a hassle-free trip!
Portland Packing: Nice-to-Have Items
First time visiting? Here are some highly recommended items that you might like to have on your Portland trip.
Packing Cubes
The goal of any traveler is to pack light and move as efficiently possible. That all starts with the way you pack and prepare your items.
Packing cubes are rectangular fabric cubes of joy which will make packing much easier. Not only does it compress your clothes together to make more space in your luggage, it makes everything so neat and organized too!
Pack smart! Checking out tips we’ve shared on packing hacks of frequent travelers.
We Recommend: Eagle Creek packing cubes
Books
If you’re planning to catch up on your reading list or just want to relax, enjoy your stay in Portland with a good book. There’s plenty of good cafés and parks in the city where you can enjoy the sun and read.
Undecided on what book to bring for your next trip? Consider these books for travelers.
Sturdy Compact Umbrella
A good windproof umbrella for travel is light-weight, compact, and sturdy. This is why we have used the Totes brand for years.
Oregonians are known for braving the rains without umbrellas. That’s why we made raincoats an essential item instead of the umbrella. Still, it can definitely be handy when the rains are especially cold and heavy in winter.
We Recommend: Totes Compact Umbrella
Canvas Shopping Bags
Oregon banned plastic bags and stores charge for recyclable bags. In addition to grocery shopping, there’s a good chance you’ll find multi-purpose uses for canvas bags on your Portland trip.
We Recommend: Cute Grocery Tote
Smartphone Holder and Car Charger
Are you going on a road trip in Oregon? We’ve found that this holder is a great option for attaching our smartphones to the dashboard.
The car charger can recharge phones (USB C and USB A inputs) quickly so you don’t run out of juice on the way.
We Recommend: iOttie Easy One Touch 4 Dash & Windshield Car Mount and Anker USB C Car Charger 50W 2-Port PIQ 3.0 Fast Charger Adapter
Camera
We were gifted an excellent digital point-and-shoot which we carry with us on most trips. If you’re not a travel blogger or photographer, your smartphone will probably do the trick just fine.
We Recommend: Sony RX100 VII
Quick-Dry Towel
We both have thin, quick dry towels from REI that take up very little space. We use them for camping, some AirBnB rentals that don’t provide towels, wiping down outdoor seating after rains, and even creating a cushion when exercising on hard surfaces.
We Recommend: REI Co-op Multi Towel
>> Scroll down to download our free Portland Packing Checklist <<
What to Wear in Portland
Comfortable and casual hipster style! That’s how one would describe the fashion of many Portlanders. There’s no specific dress code for the city. People are all about expressing their unique personality in Portland.
For travelers, it’s a good idea to pack a mix of layered clothing that’s appropriate for the season. A light-weight jacket doesn’t only make one look more put together while out, it also serves well in different types of weather.
Another must have item would be stretchy jeans because of their look and versatility. You can wear them for any number of outdoor adventures like hiking or even for just exploring the city.
The “Portland style” is all about wearing comfortable one-of-a-kind outfits that are practical. For example: always keeping your feet dry is key. See our review of water-resistant walking shoes.
In most cases, work style in Portland is business casual. Collared shirts with slacks is common, while a suit and tie is not quite as common.
What to Wear in Portland: Women
There are many different styles for women’s clothing in Portland. From outdoorsy to athletic, feminine to non-gender conforming, preppy to alternative, you’ll find it all.
Throughout the Pacific Northwest, you’ll often see outdoorsy women’s outfits by brands found at REI. This could include jeans with boots or sneakers, a short or long-sleeve shirt or sweater, and puffy down vest.
To take advantage of sunny summer days, women in Portland to start to wear more light, casual dresses and shorts. As the temperatures cool, dresses are worn over leggings and boots along with a warm vest and perhaps a rain coat.
What to Wear in Portland: Men
Styles for men in also tend center around the Pacific Northwest outdoorsy look. The typical Portland men’s fashion includes woodsy flannel shirts paired with casual pants like those found at REI.
Portland hipsters can dress up or down, and skinny jeans have been popular with the young crowd. For tops, men can go clean, grunge, alternative, or sporty with different styles of t-shirt or sweater.
Sweaters, soft shell jackets, puffy down jackets and vest, and rain coats are great layers for men in Portland as the weather cools. In summer, cargo shorts and athletic shorts are commonly seen in the city.
Extended Stay Remote Work Essentials
If you’re planning to work remotely in Portland, be sure to have a VPN when using wifi in Portland’s cafes and public spaces.
Check out our full list of tech essentials for nomads here.
What is the weather like in Portland?
The time of year is a big factor in how to pack for Portland. I always say the best time to visit Oregon is in summer. But Portland can also be enjoyed in the winter months.
Packing for Summer in Portland
Mid-June | July | August | Mid-September
The summers are relatively short but warm and dry with average temperatures of 83°F – 57°F. It’s safe to bring short sleeves and light layers for Portland summers. Don’t forget outdoor gear so you can enjoy the best of the summer months.
It’s important to use sunscreen during this season so you can still enjoy a day out without any worry from the harmful UV rays.
We recommend: SunBum environmentally-friendly Sunscreen
Packing for Fall in Portland
Mid-September | October | November
During the fall season, temperatures range around 52°F – 41°F with occasional heavy rain. It’s best to bring water resistant or waterproof shoes, weather-resistant quick-dry hiking clothes, and a light-weight hooded puffy jacket so you can still be out and about no matter the weather!
Packing for Winter in Portland
Late November | December | January | Mid-February
Winters in Portland are usually cold, wet, and overcast with temperatures averaging at 45°F – 36°F. If you choose to travel during this season, pack your best water resistant or waterproof shoes, weather-resistant quick-dry clothing, and a puffy jacket to beat the cold.
It usually snows very little in Portland, but you may wish to bring snow clothes if taking a day trip for skiing and other outdoor activities on nearby mountains.
Packing for Spring in Portland
Mid-February | March | April | May | Early June
When traveling to the city in spring, expect average temperatures of around 59°F – 42°F. Spring weather can be unpredictable, sometimes rainy and sometimes clear.
Consider your water resistant or waterproof shoes to be your best friend all-year round in your visits to Portland. For this season, style it with comfortable light-weight and quick-dry clothing along with some warm layers.
What Not to Pack for Portland Oregon
Neck wallet – It’s smart to protect your money and IDs, but traditional travel wallets are uncomfortable. Try these alternatives instead.
Uncomfortable shoes – The best way to explore the city is to go on foot so it’s best to wear your comfiest pair of shoes. Quick tip! Pack some flip-flops which you can use both for sunny or rainy weather!
Unessential valuables – Pack light and bring only your essentials! Minimizing valuables for travel is always wise to lower your risk of loss, damage, or theft.
Formal attire – Unless you’re going to a wedding, strutting around in a formal attire isn’t part of Portland culture. Comfort is key in Portland so best to wear light casual clothing as you go around.
Suede or leather items – There’s a high chance that you might get wet during your stay in the city due to the rainy season. Wearing these kinds of items will only stress you out as it can cause serious damage if drenched.
The next time you’re thinking of going on a day trip maybe along the Oregon coast, drop by the city of Portland! Don’t forget to review our packing list of essentials and remember to dress according to the weather!
You might also like:
Best Oregon Road Trip Destinations & Itineraries
A Local’s Guide to Portland Oregon
Top Things to Do in Central Oregon in Summer
Places We Love Best in Oregon
Day Trip to Lincoln City Oregon Coast
Things to Do in Pacific City Oregon
Wait, there’s more! Download our free printable Portland packing checklist with complete lists for toiletries, clothes, work from home, and other essential items for your Portland trip:
