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What to Pack & Bring

What to Pack & Bring

USA

Spring & Summer Attire

Spring offers pleasant temperatures but also rain. Summer presents hot and humid weather. Choose comfortable, breathable fabrics.

Clothing Essentials

Fall & Winter Attire

Fall offers comfortable temperatures, similar to spring. Winter temperatures are cool to mild, with potential for cold snaps.

Layering for Comfort

  • Fall: Jeans, long-sleeved shirts, sweaters, medium-weight jacket.
  • Winter: Warm coat, sweaters, long pants, warm Socks.
  • Winter accessories: Hat, Gloves, Scarf, waterproof shoes.

Footwear Recommendations

Comfortable Walking Shoes

These are paramount. You will walk a lot, especially exploring downtown, museums, and historical sites. Choose shoes with good support. Browse walking shoes on Amazon.

Ideal for extensive walking.

Seasonal Choices

Sandals or open-toed shoes (Browse sandals) suit summer, but confirm they offer comfort for extended walking. Closed-toe shoes are preferable for cooler weather.

Adapt to weather conditions.

Special Occasion Footwear

One pair of dressier shoes (Find dressier shoes) may suit if you plan upscale dining or formal evening events.

For upscale evenings.

Essential Documents

Critical Papers for Travel

Keeping your documents organized and accessible is a good practice for any trip.

  • Passport and visa documentation: Valid passport and approved U.S. Visa or ESTA confirmation.
  • Travel insurance policy information: Carry physical and digital copies.
  • International driving permit (if applicable): Recommended if your license is not in English.
  • Vaccination records and health documentation: Useful for medical consultations.
  • Printed and digital copies of reservations: Hotel, flight, car rental, tours.
  • Emergency contact information: Family, embassy, insurance provider.
  • Student/senior/press IDs for discounts: Bring relevant identification for potential savings.
  • Store digital copies of all your important documents on a cloud service or email them to yourself.

Technology & Electronics

Connectivity Essentials

Modern travel greatly benefits from technology. Pack the right electronics and accessories to stay connected and capture memories in Memphis.

Power and Mobile

Photography & Apps

Capture Memphis's vibrancy with appropriate camera equipment and useful apps.

Tech Tools

Data Backup & Security

Cloud Storage

Use cloud storage services like Google Drive or Dropbox to back up important photos and documents.

Physical Backup

A Small external hard drive presents an additional physical backup option.

Device Security

Ensure your mobile phone is "unlocked" for international use before you travel.

Health & Wellness Items

Medical Preparedness

Your health and wellness are important while traveling. Pack a small kit with necessities to address common issues and ensure comfort.

First Aid & Prescriptions

  • Basic first aid kit: Pain relievers (Ibuprofen, Acetaminophen), bandages, antiseptic wipes, antibiotic ointment.
  • Prescription medications: Carry in original containers with clear labels. Doctor's note for controlled substances.
  • Over-the-counter medications: Remedies for headaches, allergies, upset stomach, motion sickness, cold/flu symptoms.

Climate-Specific Protection

Protect yourself from the elements to fully enjoy your Memphis experience.

Sun & Insect Defense

  • Insect repellent: Important during warmer months, especially near the river or in parks.
  • Sun protection: High SPF sunscreen, sunglasses, wide-brimmed hat year-round.
  • Personal hygiene essentials: Readily available locally, but pack preferred travel-sized versions.

Special Travel Health Notes

Altitude Sickness Not Applicable to Memphis

  • Memphis is at a low elevation (around 100 meters / 330 feet).
  • Altitude sickness is not a concern for visitors to Memphis.
  • No special precautions or medications for altitude are needed.

Motion Sickness

  • If you plan riverboat cruises, motion sickness medication may prove useful.
  • Some visitors experience car sickness on winding roads (less common in Memphis).
  • Over-the-counter remedies are available locally if needed.

Activity-Specific Equipment

Music & Concerts

Comfortable and appropriate footwear for standing or dancing for extended periods. Consider Earplugs if sensitive to loud music, especially on Beale Street.

  • Comfortable shoes for standing
  • Earplugs for sensitive ears
  • Small bag for essentials
  • Enthusiasm for live music

Outdoor Activities

If you plan to hike or bike in parks, athletic wear, a comfortable Backpack, and a water bottle are useful. Binoculars aid wildlife viewing.

  • Athletic wear
  • Comfortable backpack
  • Water bottle
  • Binoculars for wildlife

River Excursions

If you plan a riverboat cruise, a light jacket may suit cooler evenings on the water, even in summer.

  • Light jacket for evenings
  • Camera for river views
  • Comfortable shoes
  • Motion sickness remedies if needed

Rent vs. Bring Decision Matrix

What to Bring

  • Comfortable walking shoes: Good fit and comfort are hard to guarantee with rentals.
  • Prescription medications: Always carry your own supply.
  • Essential documents: Passport, visa, driver's license.
  • Personal hygiene items: Travel-sized versions of preferred brands.

What to Rent

  • Bicycles: Available for rent in parks or from local shops.
  • Cars: Rent for flexibility, especially if exploring outside the city center.
  • Specialty musical instruments: Unless you are a performer, these are best rented locally.
  • High-end camera lenses: Unless photography is your main purpose, rentals may suit.

Miscellaneous Must-Haves

Comfort & Security

Beyond clothing and electronics, several miscellaneous items enhance comfort, security, and convenience during your Memphis trip.

Travel Essentials

Reusable & Regional Items

Contribute to sustainable travel and be ready for specific regional hints.

Sustainable & Smart Packing

Sustainable Travel Items

Reusable Water Bottle

Reduces plastic waste.

Reusable Shopping Bag

For purchases and eco-friendly shopping.

Rechargeable Batteries

For electronics, reducing disposable waste.

E-reader / E-books

Reduces paper consumption.

Destination-Specific Items

Unique Needs

  • Portable speaker for playing Memphis tunes.
  • Hand sanitizer for after enjoying BBQ.
  • A small Flashlight for exploring certain attractions with low lighting.

Local Availability vs. Bringing

  • Generally, everything is available in Memphis, from toiletries to electronics.
  • Prices for everyday items are comparable to other major U.S. cities, available via Amazon.
  • If you have specific dietary needs or prefer certain brands, bringing a small supply of those items may prove helpful.

Packing Pro Tips

Break in new shoes before your trip to avoid discomfort. Blisters can quickly ruin a day of sightseeing.

If you are unsure about bringing a specific item, research rental options in Memphis beforehand. This saves luggage space.