What to Pack

South Korea’s four distinct seasons mean packing smart can make or break your trip. From snowy winters to humid summers, here’s exactly what to bring depending on when you go.

❄️ January

• Weather: Very cold, often below freezing; possible snow.

• Essentials:

  • Thermal layers

  • Thick winter coat

  • Beanie, scarf, and gloves

  • Heat packs (you can buy these at convenience stores)

  • Boots with good grip (icy sidewalks are real!)

❄️ February

• Weather: Still cold, especially in northern areas.

• Essentials:

  • Winter jacket or parka

  • Thermal leggings or long underwear

  • Sweaters and fleece

  • Moisturizer and lip balm (it gets dry!)

🌸 March

• Weather: Chilly early in the month, milder by the end.

• Essentials:

  • Light to medium jacket

  • Layered outfits (tee + cardigan + light coat)

  • Closed-toe shoes

  • Umbrella (rain is possible late March)

🌼 April

• Weather: Spring blooms, cool mornings and nights.

• Essentials:

  • Light sweater or jacket

  • Comfortable walking shoes (great for cherry blossom viewing)

  • Sunglasses

  • Allergy meds if you’re sensitive to pollen

🌞 May

• Weather: Warm and sunny, but not too hot.

• Essentials:

  • Light layers (long sleeves for cool mornings)

  • Sunscreen

  • A small daypack

  • Hat or cap for sun protection

☀️ June

• Weather: Hotter and more humid, especially late June.

• Essentials:

  • Breathable clothing (linen or cotton)

  • Portable fan

  • Sunscreen and sunglasses

  • Reusable water bottle

  • Light rain jacket (start of rainy season)

🧼 July

• Weather: Very hot, humid, and rainy (monsoon season).

• Essentials:

  • Quick-dry clothes

  • Sandals or waterproof shoes

  • Compact umbrella or poncho

  • Anti-chafing products

  • Extra socks (trust us)

🌴 August

• Weather: Hot and humid, with possible typhoons.

• Essentials:

  • Tank tops and shorts (dress modestly in temples though)

  • Power bank (your phone might die faster in the heat)

  • Rain gear (umbrella, waterproof bag)

  • Cooling patches or portable mist spray

🍂 September

• Weather: Cooler evenings, warm days—transition season.

• Essentials:

  • Light jacket or hoodie

  • Long pants or midi skirts

  • Travel umbrella (just in case)

  • Bug spray for late summer insects

🍁 October

• Weather: Crisp autumn days, perfect for walking tours.

• Essentials:

  • Layers! Think t-shirt + sweater + jacket

  • Comfortable walking shoes

  • Scarf (adds warmth and style)

  • Small crossbody bag (great for festivals)

🍂 November

• Weather: Cold mornings and evenings, dry air.

• Essentials:

  • Warm jacket

  • Wool socks

  • Moisturizer and lip balm

  • Hat or ear warmers

🎄 December

• Weather: Winter is in full swing. It’s cold and dry.

• Essentials:

  • Padded jacket or down coat

  • Gloves, scarf, and hat

  • Thermal innerwear

  • Warm shoes or boots

  • A thermos for hot drinks on the go

✈️ Bonus: Year-Round Must-Haves

• Universal power adapter (Type C/F plugs, 220V)

• SIM card or eSIM (Globe and Smart offer Korea-compatible plans too)

• Portable Wi-Fi or internet plan

• Travel insurance

• Hand sanitizer (still common to use after public transport)

• T-Money card (for subways and buses)

🧳 Final Packing Tip

Even if you forget something, don’t worry—Korea’s convenience stores and pharmacies have most basics you’ll need, and local Uniqlo, Olive Young, and Daiso shops have travel-friendly items too.