Hi,
I am traveling to London for the first time this June and will be there beginning June 8th. I am wondering about what to pack clothing wise. I am from AZ and it's broiling by then. Are capris and sandals lunacy in June (I hear the temperature in London is generally around 70 or so)? Any recommendations? Any and all ideas are greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance!
Maria, Check the weather channel website before you leave and see what the weather forecast is for the days you will be there. That said, I don't think there is any way that the weather in London will be anywhere near what it is in Tucson in June, unless there is an unseasonable heatwave. Whatever the temperature, London is a major world city and you may want to dress a bit less casually than you do at home -- you can do this and still be comfortable.
I'm afraid that London can also be cool in June especially the evenings or we can have an unseasonal heatwave, who knows. We are usually grateful if it doesn't rain!
The usual advice is to layer eg I wear a cami type top under a long sleeved top (my OH does the same with a T shirt under a shirt). Depending where I am, ie a smart or casual place , will ditch one or the other if the temps rise. I also have a smart, dark coloured and lightweight fleece jacket for when the temps really drop or in the evenings, it packs really flat.
Sandals could be a problem if you suffer from cold feet or it rains. Also consider whether they are the best footwear for city walking.
As to the rain just buy a cheap umbrella, if necessary, when you are here. No real need for waterproofs. I think I have just tempted fate!
In addition to a fleece, I would suggest a waterproof windbreaker with a hood to keep you drop in the rain, if you should be so unfortunate. I think umbrellas are a pain in the neck; one more thing to carry, and very easy to lose.
My friend in West Suffolk sent me this link for UK Weather:
http://www.metoffice.gov.uk/weather/uk/se/se_forecast_weather.html
HTH!
Michelle
The wettest I've been to date in Europe was a beautiful day in London. It was so nice we decided to drop our coats and umbrellas off at the hotel before going to the British Museum. Of course when we left the museum, it was pouring and we got soaked running to the tube.
Capris and sandals will be perfect at times in London. The problem is an hour later you may be wishing you had chosen something different.
Having taken 3 trips to the UK in the last few years - we learned that you can purchase from Oxfam (local charity) rain slickers, etc. for very reasonable prices. Also helps with blending in and looking less touristy. There are all kinds of thrift/charity shops all over London and the UK.
Pack less clothes, more money, and pick up what you need while there. You can always donate it back when you leave (we do) and consider it that you leased a jacket! :)
Glenn in Tucson
I'm not a cheap traveler, but I always believe you should buy what you need in the city you visit. London has so many places to shop and buy clothes.
Light weight cotten blend pants (2 or 3 pair in black or other netral color), 1 pair capris. 3 -4 plain shell/t-shirt tops, 1 or 2 long sleeve or 3/4 sleeve button up "big shirts" to wear on cool days over the T's or as jackets at night. 1 waterproof or wind-breaker type jacket with hood. I don't do sandals, but take them if you like- maybe more for nights out- do take comfortable walking shoes in a dark color and good socks. Take 1 or more scarfs to accent your tops and to use if windy/cool. Umbrella.
Our trip to London last June was wonderful, including the weather...only rained one day. We wore slacks and closed toe shoes. Some mornings and evenings were quite chilly, and we needed windbreakers/sweaters. Oh, you will love London.