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📅 Dec - Feb
🌡️ 14°C / 8°C
☁️ Chilly and rainy, need layers
Packing for a solo backpacking trip to San Francisco in winter requires smart layering for the city's chilly, rainy weather between 8–14°C. Focus on versatile pieces that transition easily between neighborhoods, and don't forget a reliable rain jacket for the unpredictable Bay Area downpours.
Passport
Visa / entry documents
Travel insurance certificate
Flight & hotel confirmations
Driver's license
International driving permit
Credit / debit cards
Cash (local currency)
Emergency contact card
Underwear ×7
Socks ×7
Comfortable walking shoes / sneakers
Light cardigan / layer
Pyjamas / sleepwear
Casual t-shirts ×3
Jeans / trousers ×2
Belt
Thermal base layer top
Light puffer / down jacket
Fleece pullover
Wool hat / beanie
Scarf
Wool / thermal socks ×5
Ankle boots
Waterproof trousers
Toothbrush + toothpaste
Shampoo + conditioner
Body wash / soap
Deodorant
Razor / shaving supplies
Moisturiser
Lip balm
Hair brush / comb
Nail clippers
Thick hand cream
Prescription medications
Pain relief — ibuprofen / paracetamol
Antihistamines
First aid kit
Band-aids / plasters
Antiseptic cream
Motion sickness tablets
Eye drops
Smartphone + charger
Universal power adapter
Portable battery pack
Headphones / earbuds
Camera + charger + memory cards
E-reader / Kindle
Daypack / backpack 20L
Packing cubes
Luggage lock
Luggage tags
Reusable water bottle
Travel pillow (neck)
Eye mask + earplugs
Money belt / hidden wallet
Sunglasses
Reusable tote bag
Compact umbrella
Travel washing line
Travel-size laundry detergent
Padlock for hostel lockers
Quick-dry microfibre towel
Hostel sleep sheet / liner
Planning your San Francisco itinerary? Browse our free 3-day San Francisco itinerary to see the full day-by-day plan. You can also use our free collaborative travel itinerary planner to build, map, and share your own custom trip.