Amsterdam – What to Pack – Clothing and Supplies Tips

Amsterdam What to Pack

The things you want to pack for a trip to Amsterdam depend on the time of year you are planning your trip. Should you forget something, Amsterdam is a major city and has everything you might need.

Weather

It is very cold in winter and it rains quite a bit all times of the year. Spring is fairly nice and the summers are pleasant.

Packing for Fall and Winter

Fall and winter are similar. Starting from October to February, the weather is very cold. Even March also can be chilly. By April, it starts to warm up. Rain gear, an umbrella, warm clothing, and a waterproof jacket for fall and wintertime are must-have items.

Definitely bring a warm, preferably water-proof jacket and a very strong and wide umbrella during this season. These umbrellas are not the compact type, so you may have to wait until you arrive in Amsterdam to buy one. You may also consider bringing rain boots because walking in the streets during winter is a bit problematic.

Packing for Spring

Spring is less severe than winter; however, the weather can be quite changeable. One day it may be nice and warm and then in the next moment, it starts raining. Rarely does it get very hot during spring. Just pack for plenty of weather variety if arriving in springtime.

Suggestions for clothes include water-proof windbreakers, sweaters, and durable shoes treated with water resistant spray that can get wet without letting the water penetrate to the inside.

Packing for Summer

Summers can be very nice with occasional rain. Bring along clothes that can be worn in layers and be able to take off a windbreaker if it gets too warm or put one on if it gets rainy or chilly. Also, bring along tank tops and jeans that can be worn when the weather is exceptionally nice, which happens frequently in summer.

City Guide and Maps

Amsterdam is a big city, with lots of things to explore. Many of the streets have big circular designs. That makes it easy to get lost. It is good to use offline maps. If you do not buy a city guide before you come to Amsterdam, there are many places where you can get a map of Amsterdam after arrive you arrive. This is a small expense, but worth it so you never feel lost.

Other Useful Tips

Comfortable Shoes

Amsterdam is a city designed for walking, bicycling, and getting around using street trolleys. You can easily find yourself walking each day for many hours because there is something interesting to see or do on almost every block.

Luggage

Bring a backpack for easy train travel and/or a bag with sturdy wheels. Many of the streets in Amsterdam have cobblestones, so luggage with stronger and bigger wheels makes it easier to pull a suitcase along. If you stay in one of the charming boutique hotels, you may not find a bellhop to assist you and be expected to manage the luggage yourself. Be aware that elevators in these small hotels may be very small and, in some cases, there may only be stairs.

Editor’s Note: The information contained on this page was compiled using real traveler reviews about what to pack for a trip to Amsterdam. Check out our more thorough Amsterdam Packing Guide on What To Pack.