Packing for Seasons: Buffalo

Spring March-May Attire

Variable weather, with chilly mornings, warming afternoons, and possibilities of rain or even late snow.

Spring Layers

Long-sleeved shirts, lighter sweaters, or fleece jackets.
Water-resistant, packable Lightweight rain jacket.
Water-resistant walking shoes or ankle boots.

Summer June-August Attire

Warm and often humid, with occasional thunderstorms. Evenings can be cooler.

Summer Essentials

T-shirts, tank tops, shorts, dresses made from breathable fabrics.
Light sweater or cardigan for cooler evenings/air-conditioned spaces.
Swimwear if planning to visit a beach or hotel pool.

Footwear Recommendations

All Seasons except winter

Comfortable walking shoes or sneakers are good for city exploration.

Prioritize comfort.

Winter Specific

Waterproof, insulated boots with good traction are good for snow and ice.

Required for safety.

Activity Specific

Bring hiking boots for trails, specific sports shoes for activities.

Match footwear to activity.

Travel Documents

Required Travel Papers

Have both digital and printed copies. These items are good for travel and smooth navigation.

Valid Passport & Visa/ESTA (International Visitors).
Valid Government-Issued ID (U.S. Citizens).
Travel Insurance Policy Information.
International Driving Permit (if applicable).

Vaccination Records & Health Documentation.
Printed & Digital Copies of Reservations.
Emergency Contact Information.
Student/Senior/Press IDs for Discounts.

Tech & Connectivity

Power & Compatibility

The United States uses Type A and Type B plugs. The standard voltage is 120V at 60Hz.

Power Kit

A Universal travel adapter for U.S. plug types.
Portable chargers and power banks are highly recommended.
Most modern electronics are dual-voltage (100V-240V).

Mobile & Photography

Most modern smartphones (GSM-compatible) will work in the U.S. If unlocked.

Connectivity & Capture

Local SIM cards or eSIM services for mobile service.
A versatile Camera (DSLR, mirrorless, or high-quality smartphone).
A Wide-angle lens is good for architectural photography.

Digital Readiness

Recommended Apps

Google Maps, Uber/Lyft, Transit App, Yelp/TripAdvisor, OpenTable, Google Translate.

Data Backup

Utilize cloud storage services (Google Drive, Dropbox, iCloud) for photos and digital copies of important documents.

ESIMs for Data

Airalo presents a good option for international travelers for digital data plans.

Staying Healthy & Safe

Personal First Aid

While Buffalo has pharmacies, having a small Personal first aid kit offers immediate relief.

First Aid Kit Contents

Assorted Band-aids and antiseptic wipes.
Over-the-counter pain relievers (Ibuprofen, Acetaminophen).
Antihistamines, Hydrocortisone cream for insect bites or irritations.

Medications & Prevention

Carry all prescription medications in their original containers with pharmacy labels.

Medical Supplies

Copy of prescriptions or a doctor's note for controlled substances.
Cold/flu remedies, Motion sickness medication, diarrhea relief.
Sunscreen SPF 30+ for all outdoor activities.

Altitude & Motion Sickness General Travel

General Medication

Motion sickness medication for bus tours or boat rides.
Over-the-counter pain relief for general discomfort.
Personalized recommendations from your healthcare provider.

Preventative Measures

Insect repellent for parks or wooded areas.
LifeStraw or other portable water filters not needed for Buffalo tap water, but good for wilderness.
Reusable water bottle for refilling from tap water (tap water is safe).

Gear for Your Adventures

Hiking & Walking

Gear that makes your walks enjoyable.

A Small daypack for water, snacks, and extra layers.
Comfortable, broken-in Hiking socks to prevent blisters.
Supportive walking shoes or hiking boots.
Dress in layers for changing conditions.

Cycling

Biking gear for comfort and safety.

Consider bringing your own Helmet for comfort and fit beyond rentals.
Cycling gloves for longer rides.
Sunscreen and a water bottle for hydration.
Lightweight, breathable clothing.

Photography

Capture every moment.

Extra camera batteries and memory cards.
A lens cleaning cloth.
A Compact travel tripod for low-light shots.
Weather-appropriate camera protection.

Rent vs. Bring Decisions

Good to Rent

Bicycles from Buffalo BikeShare or local bike shops.
Skis, snowboards, and boots at local ski resorts (e.g., Kissing Bridge, Holiday Valley).
Snowshoeing equipment for winter outings.
Kayaks and paddleboards at waterfront locations.

Good to Bring

Personal helmet if precise fit is important.
Specific camera lenses if particular to your style.
Your preferred Travel gear (e.g., specialized backpack).
Personal items like gloves and hats for winter sports.

General Travel Aids

Comfort Items

These items make your journey more pleasant.

Travel Comfort

A Travel neck pillow and Eye mask.
Earplugs for noisy environments or light sleepers.
A good book or downloaded entertainment.
A loaded device for content consumption.

Security Items

Peace of mind for your belongings.

Personal Security

A TSA-approved luggage lock for checked bags.
A Money belt or neck wallet for valuables.
A small, secure cross-body bag or Backpack.
Pacsafe anti-theft bags for added security.

Sustainable Travel Items

Reusable Bag

For groceries, souvenirs.

Water Bottle

Refill from safe tap water.

Universal Adapter

Minimize single-use items.

Eco-Friendly Choices

Consider local vendors.

Destination-Specific Items General

Not Unique to Buffalo

No unique items specific to Buffalo itself.
Items similar to those needed in other U.S. Cities.
Standard travel items suffice.

Easy Local Purchase

Well-stocked pharmacies and supermarkets.
Department stores for almost anything needed.
No worries about running out of common items.

Packing Pro Tips

Check the 10-day forecast before packing. Buffalo weather can be unpredictable.

Pack layers no matter the season, especially for spring and autumn visits.

Packing for Buffalos Seasons