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What to Pack & Bring

What to Pack & Bring

California, USA

Spring & Fall Attire

These shoulder seasons generally maintain mild days and cool evenings. A mix of short-sleeve T-shirts and light long-sleeve shirts (cotton or breathable synthetics) works well.

Layering Essentials

Summer & Winter Attire

Summer days are warm and dry, but cool, foggy mornings and evenings remain common. Winter includes cool, wet days. A warm, Waterproof winter coat or an insulated jacket stands recommended.

Seasonal Layers

  • Summer mid-layer: Light sweater, cardigan, or denim jacket for mornings/evenings.
  • Winter base layer: Long-sleeve shirts; consider Thermal base layers for cold sensitivity.
  • Winter accessories: Warm hat, Gloves, scarf, and Small umbrella.

Footwear Essentials

Comfortable Walking Shoes

The single most important footwear item. Berkeley benefits from exploration on foot.

Sneakers or Walking shoes with good support are required.

Water-Resistant Options

Highly recommended for winter travel to keep your feet dry during rainy days.

Shoes or boots for wet conditions.

Sandals & Dressier Shoes

Sandals are suitable for summer, but verify walking comfort.

Pack comfortable, dressier shoes for formal events.

Essential Documents

Document Checklist

Keeping your travel documents organized and secure is a top priority. Carry both physical and digital copies of everything important.

  • Original passport and visa documentation (if applicable).
  • Travel insurance policy information (policy number, emergency contacts).
  • International Driving Permit (IDP) with national driver's license (if renting car).
  • Vaccination records and health documentation (doctor's note for prescriptions).
  • Printed and digital copies of reservations (accommodation, flights, tours).
  • Emergency contact information (family, embassy, bank hotline).
  • Student/Senior/Press IDs for discounts (if applicable).
  • Store physical copies of sensitive documents separately from originals.

Technology & Electronics

Power & Connectivity

Staying connected and powered up simplifies travel with the right electronics and accessories.

Adapter & SIM Options

  • Power adapter (Type A/B, 120V, 60Hz); consider Voltage converter if devices are not dual voltage.
  • Mobile phone compatibility: Most modern smartphones function with U.S. Networks (ensure "unlocked").
  • SIM card options: Prepaid physical SIMs or ESIMs (e.g., Airalo) for data plans.

Photography & Power

Capture Berkeley's architecture, campus scenes, Bay views, and natural landscapes. A modern Smartphone camera typically suffices.

Camera & Charger

Recommended Apps

Navigation

Google Maps or Apple Maps for walking, driving, and public transit.

Transit & Ride-Sharing

Transit or Moovit for bus/BART schedules. Uber and Lyft for ride-sharing. ParkMobile for parking meters.

Food & Communication

DoorDash, Uber Eats, Grubhub for food delivery. WhatsApp for international communication.

Health & Wellness Items

First Aid Kit

A small, well-stocked health and wellness kit helps manage minor ailments and maintain comfort.

Kit Contents

Medications & Protection

Bring an adequate supply of all prescription medications in original, labeled containers. Carry a copy of your prescription or a doctor's note, especially for controlled substances.

Health Essentials

Altitude & Motion Sickness

Altitude Sickness

  • Not generally relevant for Berkeley; it is at sea level.
  • Consider remedies for day trips to higher elevations.
  • Consult a doctor for specific medications if sensitive.

Motion Sickness

  • Less relevant for Berkeley itself, more for winding roads or boat trips.
  • Over-the-counter remedies are available.
  • Consider for ferry rides if you are prone to seasickness.

Activity-Specific Equipment

Hiking Gear

For exploring the Berkeley Hills or Tilden Regional Park, appropriate gear makes the experience more comfortable.

  • Comfortable, broken-in Hiking shoes or sturdy walking shoes are required.
  • Bring a Small daypack for water, snacks, and layers.
  • Moisture-wicking layers are preferable to cotton for intense hikes.
  • Trekking poles are useful for strenuous ascents.

Cycling Attire

For extensive cycling beyond basic city exploration, comfortable cycling attire improves the experience.

  • Comfortable, breathable clothing.
  • Padded shorts are helpful for longer rides.
  • A Helmet is always required for safety (rental shops typically provide one).
  • Bike rentals are available from local shops or Bay Wheels (Lyft Bikes).

Swimming Gear

If you plan to visit pools (e.g., hotel pools, Lake Anza seasonally) or local beaches, pack appropriately.

  • Pack a Swimsuit.
  • Bring a towel.
  • Kayaks/Paddleboards are available for rent at the Berkeley Marina.
  • Consider rental for Camping gear if needed for regional parks.

Rent vs. Buy Equipment

Items to Rent Convenience

  • Bicycles are easily rented from local bike shops.
  • Kayaks/Paddleboards are available for rent at Berkeley Marina.
  • Camping gear can be rented locally rather than brought from home.
  • Specialty items are not generally required for Berkeley tourists.

Items to Bring Preference

  • Specific brands of toiletries or sensitive skin products.
  • Particular medications (even OTC ones) formulated differently.
  • Unique personal items you prefer not to search for.
  • A small laundry detergent packet if planning self-service laundry.

Miscellaneous Must-Haves

Comfort & Security

These items elevate comfort, security, and convenience during your trip.

Travel Essentials

Eco-Friendly & Berkeley Specific

Embrace sustainability and ensure comfort within Berkeley's unique microclimate.

Reusable & Climate-Specific

  • A Reusable water bottle for hydration and waste reduction.
  • A Reusable shopping bag (bag fees apply at checkout in Berkeley).
  • Layers: A light jacket or at least one mid-layer is required even in summer.
  • Comfortable walking shoes are non-negotiable for city exploration.

Sustainable Travel

Refill Bottle

Reduce plastic waste, tap water is safe.

Reusable Bag

Avoid bag fees at local stores.

Personal Utensils

Optional for eco-conscious diners.

Public Transit

Greenest way to move around.

Destination-Specific Items

Summer June-August

  • Do not pack only summer clothes; evenings cool significantly due to fog.
  • A light jacket or mid-layer is required.
  • Consider fewer regular students on campus, less crowded.

Winter December-February

  • A warm, waterproof winter coat is recommended.
  • Water-resistant shoes/boots keep feet dry.
  • A small umbrella is a sensible addition.

Packing Pro Tips

Lay out your planned outfits and remove anything you are unsure about. You always buy something if needed, but packing light simplifies travel.

Roll clothes to save space and minimize wrinkles.