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What to Pack for Memphis

What to Pack for Memphis

Memphis Tennessee, USA Travel Guide

Spring & Summer Attire

Spring (March-May): Pack light to medium layers. Jeans, Long-sleeved shirts, light sweaters or jackets. Bring a Rain jacket or Umbrella. Mornings can be cool.

Summer June-August

  • Lightweight, breathable fabrics (cotton, linen), shorts, t-shirts, dresses.
  • Wide-brimmed hat and Sunglasses.
  • Light cardigan for strong indoor AC.

Autumn & Winter Wardrobe

Autumn (September-November): Medium-weight jackets, sweaters, long-sleeved shirts. Early autumn can still be warm. Days start cool, warm up, then cool quickly after sunset. A versatile jacket is necessary.

Winter December-February

  • Heavy coat, sweaters, long pants, scarves, Gloves, hats.
  • Waterproof outer layer for rain or light snow.
  • Dress in multiple layers; thermal underwear for colder days.

Footwear Recommendations

Walking Comfort

Comfortable walking shoes are absolutely necessary for sightseeing. A lot of attractions are walkable.

Prioritize comfort over style.

Seasonal Options

Sandals for summer, ensure good support. Waterproof shoes or boots for winter/rainy seasons.

Keep feet not wet and comfortable.

Evening Wear

Pack one pair of dressier shoes for evenings out, fine dining, or shows, if your itinerary includes such events.

For upscale events.

Essential Documents

Documentation Checklist

Keep all essential documents accessible and secure. Make both physical and digital copies.

  • Valid Passport: Main ID, valid for 6+ months past your visit.
  • U.S. Visa or ESTA: Printed and digital copies of approval.
  • Travel Insurance: Policy details, emergency contacts, coverage summary.
  • International Driving Permit (IDP): If operating a vehicle and license not in English.
  • Vaccination Records: For routine immunizations.
  • Prescription List: Generic names, dosages, doctor's note for customs.
  • Reservations: Printed/digital copies of flights, hotels, car rentals, tours.
  • Emergency Contacts: Local, home country, embassy/consulate info.

Technology & Electronics

Power & Connectivity

The U.S. uses Type A and B sockets (two flat parallel pins, or two parallel flat pins with a grounding pin) at 120V, 60Hz. Travelers from other regions need a Power adapter and potentially a Voltage converter.

Mobile Phone & SIM

Gadgets & Apps

Bring your standard camera gear, extra batteries, memory cards, and a Lens cleaning kit (B&H Photo has options). A Portable charger is helpful for devices.

Recommended Apps

  • Navigation: Google Maps, Waze.
  • Ride-sharing: Uber, Lyft.
  • Translation: Google Translate (though English is main language).

Data Backup & Security

Cloud Storage

Utilize services like Google Drive or Dropbox for backing up images and documents.

External Hard Drives

For large volumes of photos, an External hard drive offers a physical backup.

Secure Online Backup

Sensitive data should be backed up to secure, encrypted online services.

Health & Wellness Items

Personal First Aid Kit

A well-stocked personal health kit for minor ailments and comfort during your trip. A compact First aid kit is always handy.

Kit Contents

Medication & Hydration

Keep all prescription medications in original containers with pharmacy labels. A copy of your prescription or doctor's note is helpful. Pack enough medication for your entire trip plus extra.

Over-the-Counter & Hydration

Special Health Notes

Altitude & Motion Sickness

  • Memphis is at a low elevation; altitude sickness is not a concern.
  • Motion sickness remedies are only relevant for river-basedboat cruises or car travel if prone.

Sun & Insect Protection

Activity-Specific Equipment

Hiking & Walking

Sturdy, comfortable shoes are primary. For extensive hikes in state parks, Light hiking boots and moisture-wicking Socks.

  • Comfortable athletic wear.
  • Wearing clothes in layers for varied temperatures.

Concerts & Events

Check venue rules for bag sizes, cameras, and outside food/drink. Some venues have clear bag policies.

Swimming & Fitness

Bring a Swimsuit for hotel pools or splash parks. Workout clothing and shoes for hotel gyms or local fitness centers.

Rent vs. Bring Equipment

Rent for Convenience

  • Bicycles: Rent from local shops or BikeShare Memphis for casual rides.
  • Kayaks/Canoes: Rent at Hyde Lake in Shelby Farms Park.
  • Specialty Equipment: Research local rental options for unique activities.
  • Generally, for typical tourist activities, bringing highly specialized equipment is not necessary.

Bring for Specific Needs

  • Your Own Bike: Exclusively for serious cycling enthusiasts on extended trips.
  • Sturdy Walking Shoes: Your most important "specialty item" for exploration.
  • Specific Camera Gear: If you have professional or custom equipment.
  • Personal Tech: Laptops or unique devices you frequently use.

Miscellaneous Must-Haves

Comfort & Security

Comfort items for transportation include a Neck pillow, Eye mask, and Earplugs for long travel or quiet moments. Bring reading material or entertainment for downtime.

Security Items

Reusable & Personal Items

A Reusable water bottle helps you stay hydrated and reduce plastic waste. A Reusable shopping bag is useful for purchases made at local markets.

Essentials

  • Compact set of Reusable utensils for picnics.
  • Comfortable walking shoes are paramount for exploring Memphis.
  • Cash in small denominations for tips or small purchases.
  • An open mind and sense of adventure for Memphis's rich history and culture.

Sustainable Travel Items

Reusable Water Bottle

Stay hydrated, reduce plastic waste.

Reusable Shopping Bag

For souvenirs and market finds.

Travel Coffee Mug

Enjoy drinks on the go, reduce disposable cups.

E-reader/Book

Sustainable entertainment, less paper waste.

Items Difficult to Purchase Locally

Specialty Products

  • Specific brand of snack or cosmetic.
  • Personal care products for delicate skin.
  • Specific menstrual products.

Eyewear & Prescriptions

  • Extra pair of prescription glasses.
  • Extra contact lenses or a copy of your prescription.
  • Any unique prescription items that might not be available.

Packing Pro Tips

Pack light and efficiently. Roll clothes to be space-efficient and avoid wrinkles. Consider a capsule wardrobe for versatility.

Always pack any medications or essential documents in your carry-on bag.

What to Pack for Memphis. Clothes, Accessories, Essentials