Packing guide for the Northeast: New York, New Jersey, New England and nearby
The Northeast has four clear seasons. Winters are cold, often below freezing, with snow and ice, especially in New England and upstate New York. Summers are warm to hot and humid. Many people in the big cities walk and take trains and buses, so you will spend more time outdoors than you might expect.
States in this guide: Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland and Washington, D.C..
General information only. Weather varies a lot inside each region and from year to year. Check the forecast for your city on weather.gov before you pack, and follow the official travel rules linked below.
Your packing checklist
Tick items as you pack. Your ticks stay on this device only. Share the list, print it, or set reminders below.
Winter
- Warm, windproof winter coat (or buy one on arrival)
- Waterproof boots with good grip
- Hat, gloves and scarf
- Thermal layers
Summer
- Light, breathable clothes
- Light sweater for air conditioning
Spring and fall
- Light jacket
- Rain jacket or umbrella
- Comfortable walking shoes
Winter (December to March)
- A warm, windproof winter coat. It is often cheaper and better suited to buy it here in the fall than to pack one.
- Waterproof boots with good grip for snow, slush and ice.
- A hat, gloves and a scarf, and thermal layers if you will be outside a lot.
Summer (June to August)
- Light, breathable clothes for heat and humidity.
- A light sweater for cold air conditioning on trains and in offices.
Spring and fall
Weather changes quickly. Pack layers: a light jacket, a rain jacket or umbrella, and comfortable walking shoes.
Local tips
- Strong coastal storms (nor’easters) can bring heavy snow or rain. Tropical storms occasionally reach the coast in late summer and fall.
- Apartments are often small. Pack light and buy furniture and kitchen items after you arrive.
For documents, medicines, electronics, food and money, see our general packing guide for newcomers. It applies to every region.