7 Crucial Items Tourists Forget to Pack for London in December (2026)

#1 Mini Clear Umbrella

Ever since I was nearly hit by a bus because my umbrella blocked my view, I’ve been a firm believer in clear umbrellas, especially when exploring bustling cities like London. 

One of the common slip-ups first-time tourists make is either forgetting to pack an umbrella or bringing one that turns into a hassle. Navigating the bustling traffic and crowded sidewalks of London requires a smart solution.

☔ So, here’s the deal –a mini clear umbrella is the ONLY smart choice for London. 

London’s traffic is the craziest I’ve ever seen (and I’ve been to New York City and Shanghai!), and pedestrians rarely have the right of way.

If your umbrella is opaque, you’re likely to run into another person, or worse, a moving vehicle. With a mini clear umbrella that easily fits into your purse or daypack, you’re all set.

#2 Water Resistant Boots

Let’s chat about something important that many first-time London visitors tend to forget, especially if you’re heading there in December – waterproof boots. 

I’ve been here for over a week now and it has rained every single day.  In my tennis shoes, I’ve had no other choice than try to avoid the mini lakes forming at every dip in the sidewalk. I even had to step onto the busy road a few times to get around them – not the safest move.

I visited the Tower of London on an extra-wet day, which was great because the crowds were slim, but puddles practically took over the place and the medieval ramparts were particularly slippery.

🥾 So, here’s some friendly advice: don’t be like me and talk yourself out of cramming a pair of waterproof boots into your luggage.

Not only would my waterproof boots have kept my feet dry and provided extra grip on slick surfaces, but they’d also offer that extra warmth needed for London’s December chill.

#3 Extra socks for bedtime

I’m not someone who usually sleeps in socks. But my airbnb is less than perfect, and the heating got turned off one night. I actually had to resort to sleeping with my coat on. 

🧦 At that moment, I was incredibly thankful for one simple item I had packed – an extra pair of thick socks.

As you navigate London’s iconic streets in December, you’re more than likely to find yourself caught in a rain shower, leaving your feet wet and uncomfortable. When the weather is as cold as it gets during this time of year, having dry and warm feet becomes a priority.

#4 Small crossbody

Public transportation in London, although very user-friendly and cheap, is very crowded.  Everyone will be packed in like a tin of sardines, so you won’t want a massive purse or tote making it harder to maneuver the crowd.

I made the mistake of bringing a medium-sized tote bag, but not only was it difficult to squeeze my way through crowds, it was hard on my shoulders after a day spent trekking around the city.   And if you’re trying to keep your bag in front of you to deter pickpockets, a bigger bag is not the most comfortable choice.

I recommend bringing a small crossbody that snugly fits your wallet, phone, and Oyster card so you can wear it across your chest, keeping your stuff safe and within easy reach. 

It’s a practical choice that’ll level up your London experience, and you’ll thank me later when you’re zipping through the city’s vibrant streets hassle-free.

#5 Insulated Raincoat 

I made the unfortunate decision of leaving my raincoat behind during my trip to London in December, primarily because I didn’t want to pay the hefty checked bag fee for a larger suitcase.

I soon came to regret that choice. It quickly became evident that a rain jacket would have been a far better companion on this journey. My camel coat, stylish as it is, doesn’t shed water like a proper raincoat, and I had to resort to using the towel warmer in my airbnb, which, let’s face it, probably wasn’t the safest choice. 

A good, insulated raincoat is a non-negotiable item for your December visit to London. I’ve also noticed that Londoners appear to favor black, so skip the bright colors if you want to look less like a tourist.

Don’t make the same mistake I did; invest in a compact, waterproof raincoat that can easily fit in your luggage or carry-on. Your dry, cozy self will thank you.

#6 Shoes without Heels

One fashion choice I regret during my trip was bringing heeled ankle boots. They look tres chic, but they are a recipe for disaster in this city. Getting on and off buses, navigating the tube, and walking on ancient cobblestones can be tricky enough without the added challenge of balancing on heels.

During my stay in London, I spotted only a handful of women wearing heeled boots, and I’m fairly certain they were tourists. 

Be like the locals and opt for heel-less shoes like Doc Martens or Chelsea boots. 

These choices not only keep you comfortable and safe, but they’re also super versatile and will match nearly anything you bring to wear.

So, when you’re packing for your December London adventure, leave those heeled boots behind and choose footwear that’s functional.

#7 Sturdy Rolling Suitcase 

I don’t normally travel carry-on, so I borrowed my mom’s smaller suitcase, thinking it would do the job just fine. Little did I know how tough London’s terrain and fast-paced streets could be on luggage.

The first sign of trouble was the broken zipper, a result of my overstuffing attempts. 

I soon found myself struggling to drag my battered suitcase behind me as I tried to keep pace with the lightning-fast crowd. (They walk even faster than New Yorkers!)

I recommend investing in a sturdy suitcase that swivels on all four wheels. 

Not only will it withstand the cobblestones, but it will also allow you to keep up with the fast paced London scene and maneuver easily through the crowded streets.

Important: When taking escalators in London, be sure to stay to the right when standing! Walkers pass on the left.

Bonus Tip: Ditch the Selfie Stick and Book a Photography Session!

Most travelers want to properly document their trip to London.  Who wouldn’t?  However, you’ll quickly realize that iconic spots are incredibly crowded, making it a challenge to take a decent photo without risking collisions with passing bikes or other tourists.

Here’s an alternative that I stumbled upon and will now make a staple of my travels: book a photoshoot session with a local. 

I opted for a photography session in London and it was a game-changer. Our talented guide, Nethmi, knew the best spots and expertly posed us for stunning shots. 

The best part? She skillfully framed our pictures so that there were no other tourists in the background. Plus, it was surprisingly affordable!

It’s an ingenious hack that not only saves you from the selfie struggle but also ensures you have professional-quality photos to remember your journey by.