{2024} The Ultimate Guide to Packing for NYC in October

Packing for a trip to The Big Apple this fall? I've rounded up my top outfit ideas for New York in October to help you pack all the right essentials that'll keep you warm, dry, classy, & cozy for Fall in NYC.

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Packing for New York in October?

Central Park, NYC (SPC)

Having just returned from a wonderful weekend in NYC, I've been thinking through my packing hits and misses. I can say, without equivocation, that October is an unbelievably charming time to experience New York. I felt like I was living in a chick flick. Which, like someone out of a Mindy Kaling series, I said multiple times. I'd argue it's the best time of year to visit New York, but the good news is: with the exception of January, I suppose there isn't really a bad time to explore one of the greatest cities in the US.


We spent the evenings of our trip largely at Broadway shows, and the days walking, walking, walking, with breaks at museums and endless coffee shops. With average temperatures in the low sixties/high fifties, it's warm enough to be comfortable, but cool enough that you won't be too hot during all that walking. It's still warm enough to comfortably take a boat ride, eat outside, and not wear gloves.


New York style, in October, as ever, is varied, innovative, location-dependent, and ever-changing. And while it's easy to look "like a tourist" when you're taking pictures in Times Square, it's also pretty easy to blend in like a local in this diverse environment where 'anything goes.' We spent a lot of time on the Upper East Side (long-time readers will not be shocked by this, I know), where a lot of black and a fancy purse will help you feel like a local.

Central Park (SPC)

While the outfit goal for any sightseeing trip should always be comfort, people certainly come to New York to see and be seen. And if you're reading my blog, you aren't the sort of person who wants to look as 'touristy' as possible. So let's talk through a few outfit essentials to keep you comfy, cozy, and chic this October in New York!

October in NYC Frequently Asked Questions

Is it cold in New York in October?

Autumn in NYC (SPC)

The average high/low in New York in October is 64/50 degrees Fahrenheit. So, no, it's not "cold," but you'll definitely want to bring close toed-shoes and a jacket for morning/evening adventures.

October in NYC (SPC)

Does it rain a lot in NYC in October?

NYC averages 7 days of rain in October, which isn't an especially wet month. That said, our recent trip had a day and a half of complete washout, so definitely be prepared either with indoor activity options (don't plan on the MET unless you want to be with the entire city), or appropriate rain gear if you're sticking to your original outdoor plans.

What do people wear in New York in October?

Well...it's New York. You name it, you'll find someone wearing it. But, by and large, as a tourist wanting to look nice and generally fit in, I'd opt for classic autumn attire, darker colors, and a neutral palette. You can wear a few pieces of athleisure, but don't dress like you're going to the gym.

{2024} The Ultimate Guide to Packing for NYC in October

Versatile Jackets

First things first!  I always coordinate my outfits (especially for a short trip where options are limited), around my outer layer, bag, and shoes. Those exterior items are all most people will be seeing when I'm out-and-about on tourist jaunts.

Depending on the length of your trip, it's a good idea to bring a jacket or two. If you're only bringing one, make sure it'll be OK in the rain, even if it's not a trench coat. Personally, I'd just wear a trench.

Do I need my winter coat for October in New York?

It is highly unlikely that it will be cold enough in NYC in October to warrant a Canadian Goose/down winter coat. You are not yet into those cold winter NYC days. I'd stick with a heavy jacket that can block out wind, but you don't need to go full 'comforter coat' just yet.

Zip-able bags for NYC

The more touristy the area, the most insistent I am on pickpocket-proof bags. I say this not to make you paranoid, but just to make you practical, if you live in an area like I do, where I don't have to worry about pickpockets on a daily basis.

A crossbody bag that is fully zip-able is my go-to for NYC, in October or, really, any season.

Comfortable Walking Shoes

As with any big city, expect to take 15,000+ steps per day when you're exploring New York. New York is the epitome of a walking city (though you should take advantage of public transportation to spare your feet, when possible), and New Yorkers walk fast and far. I will not have your trip being ruined by blisters! Break in any shoes long before your trip - promise me. Comfortable shoes can make or break a tourist trip where you're doing a lot of walking.

I'd recommend bringing two pairs of shoes. First, one pair of stylish sneakers. They're as in-style in NYC as everywhere else in the USA. I'd keep the colors more neutral/less bright/no neon. I'd bring white sneakers or, particularly if you're worried about getting them dirty, a solid, darker color pair in a neutral color (suggestions below).

Second, I'd bring one pair of waterproof boots or booties that can withstand rain or drizzle. For me, the best shoes for rain potential when I'm a tourist are boots/booties from Blondo. They're cute, look like "normal" boots, but are, in the end, waterproof shoes. They're also surprisingly comfortable, whether it rains or not.

Native New Yorkers might be horrified that I even feel I need to include this note, but please do not wear flip flops or sandals in October in NYC. They're out-of-season, look ridiculous, and your feet will be freezing and filthy. I'm always surprised how many tourists I see wearing flip-flops on a fall trip. On warm days, wear your sneakers. 

Should I bring heels on my trip to NYC?

If you're going to a special event, a pair of low heels wouldn't go amiss! But remember - you will always end up walking more in NYC than you think. More often, and often farther than you anticipate. You get lost, you get wrong directions, you forget how big the cities, you change your plans, you think the Subway stop is "right around the corner..." On our recent trip, I brought a pair of flats and got a blister after our first night 'out on town.' So think carefully, and while they may be impressive and oh-so-Carrie-Bradshaw, maybe leave the towering high heels at home and save them for a night you know you'll be in control of your Ubering, not tottering around unfamiliar city streets in mildly cold weather.

A note on dress codes in New York City

As American life becomes increasingly informal, the dress code has tended to go by the wayside.

That said, if you will be visiting any really high-end establishments for a very nice dinner or special event, be sure to bring a pair of non-sneaker shoes and non-denim pants, just in case.

​And check the website in advance. Occasionally, men need jackets. It's not common, but it happens and, at the end of the day, you don't want to miss out on an important event because you don't have the right attire.

Jeans & Pants for October in NYC

For most of those chilly, October NYC days, I'd stick with a classic pair of jeans. Wide leg jeans are a fall staple and you can easily wear them multiple days on your trip, saving room in your suitcase for purchases! No skinny jeans, please. And opt for an ankle length jean, so you don't end up with your jeans dragging on those dirty NYC streets 

While you "can" wear leggings in NYC, obviously, I really think a lot of days you'd be uncomfortably chilly. I'd recommend jeans or a pair of joggers-that-look-like-pants.

Can I wear shorts in NYC in October?

No. Absolutely no. Long pants, dresses/skirts only. It is too cold and you'll look half-naked and stand out like a sore thumb. No shorts. I don't care how warm it is. Same goes for tank tops.

A Lightweight Sweater or Two

It should be chilly enough in most of October to have a light sweater as your base layer, and that light jacket layered on top. I'd stay away from really chunky, heavy sweaters under the jacket, as you'll just burn up walking around when it's not that cold. A heavy sweater and vest would be another option.

A couple dresses

While I generally wouldn't recommend a dress for everyday tourism, I would bring a few dresses for evening activities, particularly seeing a Broadway show or popping by a happy hour. If the forecast looks particularly warm, it might be worth bringing a dress you can wear during the day as well.

7+ Easy Outfit Tips: What to Wear to a Broadway Show in NYC

The right accessories for NYC in October

Whenever I travel in Europe, and when I travel in the US in the colder months, I always bring at least one scarf. They elevate your outfit and make it appear more finished. A scarf can be one of the most versatile pieces in your wardrobe, when used effectively.

In the event of rain, I travel with a small, foldable umbrella. Yes, you can buy an umbrella in NYC, obviously, but it's much cheaper and more efficient to bring one with you.

New York Packing List
​{4 Days in October}

• Outer Layer: light jacket/trench coat
• Scarf
• 1 pair of jeans
• 1 pair of non-jean pants
• 2 light sweaters
• 1 pair of comfy sneakers
• 1 pair of boots/booties that can handle rain
• 1 crossbody purse that zips/closes fully
• 1 neutral belt
• Small, foldable umbrella
• One light blouse
• 1 or 2 dresses
• Hairbrush
• Toiletries bag
• Socks, underwear
• Travel set for flight home

Thanks for stopping by!

I hope you have a wonderful trip to New York City in my favorite season. Let me know your New York packing essential items in the comments below!

Autumn in NYC (SPC)

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