Traveling Light: New York City Packing List

And we’re back!

Michael and I usually try to visit New York City at least once a year, and quite unbelievably as of last week, we hadn’t been yet this year. Well, we remedied that over the past weekend and spent three days eating and shopping to our hearts’ content.

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I shared what we did during our time in the city in this post, but today I’m sharing a look at what I packed and wore (no surprise here: there’s a lot of black!).

Looking for more packing inspiration for New York City? You'll want to check out everything I packed for a 2023 trip to NYC.

NEW YORK CITY PACKING LIST

Collage of all items packed for New York City on a white background — | Jumpsuit* | Charcoal Sweater* | Black Sweater* | Grey Sweater* | Leather Jacket* | Black Denim | Blue Denim | Sneakers* | Loafers* [save 20% with code WAYWARDBLOG] | Tote | Crossbody Pouch* |

The weather on Friday was much like at home in Florida right now; mid-fifties in the morning and topping off at about 72°. Saturday and Sunday were very different, with highs in the upper fifties/lower sixties with a chance of rain to end the weekend. I initially planned on bringing my Chelsea boots, but as the weather forecast predicted warmer and warmer temperatures, I left them at home. We also knew we’d have a pretty casual itinerary that was heavy on walking, so two of my more comfortable shoes would be most appropriate. I felt happy with all of my outfit choices, especially since my color palette felt right at home in NYC.

Looking for more packing list inspiration? Discover what's in my suitcase each season: Spring | Summer | Fall | Winter

NEW YORK CITY OUTFITS

Friday Morning

Our flight was only two hours, so I was fine in jeans, a sweater, and my leather jacket. I wore my loafers*, since we’d have no time to change before our lunch reservation, and I wasn’t sure my sneakers would make the cut. The day warmed up considerably, and I carried my jacket around for a few hours before putting it back on later.

Collage: A grey sweater, blue denim, black jacket, purse, tote, and loafers — | Leather Jacket* | Sweater* | Denim | Loafers* | Tote | Crossbody Pouch* |

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Friday Evening

By Friday evening I was ready to change out of my sweaty sweater and into something clean. Normally I pack a dress on every trip to have on hand in case we feel like going somewhere fancy, but this time I packed my jumpsuit instead. We didn’t have any such place on our agenda, so I kept it extra casual with my sneakers instead.

A black jumpsuit, white sneakers, black leather jacket, and purse — | Jumpsuit* | Sneakers* | Leather Jacket* | Crossbody Pouch* |

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Saturday

Saturday morning was the coldest, so I wore my thickest sweater with a Uniqlo Heattech shirt underneath. I’m always surprised at what a difference that thin base layer makes. I also wore my heaviest jeans and slipped into my Vejas again to keep my feet warm.

A black sweater, black jeans, leather jacket, and white sneakers — | Sweater* | Denim | Sneakers* | Leather Jacket* | Crossbody Pouch* |

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Sunday

Sunday was very misty and damp all day, but I wore my leather jacket since that’s what I had. The rain thankfully never picked up enough to soak into the leather. Despite the damp chill in the air, I kept warm thanks again to my merino sweater and another base layer.

A grey sweater, blue jeans, white sneakers, two purses — | Sweater* | Denim | Leather Jacket* | Tote | Sneakers* | Crossbody Pouch* |

FINAL THOUGHTS ON PACKING FOR NYC IN THE FALL

By packing light, I had nearly half of my suitcase available to bring back any purchases I made. Though I definitely shopped a lot over our three days in NYC, I actually only purchased three clothing items (and one was from Everlane using credits, and they shipped it to my house – does that even count?). I’ll be posting my purchases on Instagram Stories later today, so keep an eye out! Though there are a few items left on my purchasing wish list right now, I’m also happy to have returned home with more cash in my pocket than expected. That just means it’s time to book another trip, right?

*Some items are no longer available from the retailer and I've linked a similar product

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How do you feel about packing for the city? Do you tend to dress in black to blend in, or dress in color to stand out?

I’ll see you Monday to share about our adventures!