How to Pack for a Trip to Charleston, South Carolina

Thousands of visitors each year flock to "The Holy City" of Charleston, South Carolina. Lured by palm trees, Southern drawls and beautiful waterfront views, tourists venture to the Lowcountry, especially in the spring and summer. Charleston's climate can be quite tropical at times, and it's important to know what to bring and what to leave at home.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Plan ahead of time. What time of year will you be going? If you plan to travel to Charleston between the months of April and August, know that this is the city's prime tourist season. Officially, Hurricane Season is from June 1 to November 30. While it has been several years since Charleston has been hit by a hurricane, bear in mind that if such a storm nears the coast, residents and visitors will be evacuated. Charleston winters can often be wet and dreary, and the smell of the paper mill is often exacerbated by the dampness. Spring may be the best time to visit Charleston, as it is usually warming up by late March but is not yet as crowded as it will be in the middle of the Summer.
2. If you decide to travel in the spring or summer, make sure to bring lots of lightweight, cotton, light-colored clothing. Charleston is notoriously humid and hot in late spring and the whole of summer, and walking around in heavy, dark clothing can be a nightmare. Linens are a good idea, as there is usually a sea breeze to cool you off. Pack bathing suits, as there are several beaches available to the public, and your hotel may have a pool. Flip-flops are a must have for Charleston (both at the beach and walking around downtown), but you might also want to think about bringing some rain boots along. Areas of Downtown Charleston have a tendency to flood if there is a heavy rain.
3. Women should keep in mind that some skirts might not be a great idea as the winds can get quite heavy at times. For a nice evening out, pack a summery outfit or dress and sandal heels or wedges.
4. Additionally, remember to bring some recreational items with you if it is going to be warm or mild while you're there:
   * Beach Chairs or Blankets
   * Picnic Blankets
   * Beach Umbrella
   * Beach Toys for Kids
   * Sunblock (even on cloudy days!)
5. If you are traveling to Charleston in the winter, bring items of clothing to layer, as some days can be quite mild and others can be very brisk. Bring a raincoat--there's nothing worse than being freezing and sodden! Bring a hat and scarf as well, as it can get quite windy at times.
6. No matter when you go, here are a few items you should remember:
   * Umbrella
   * Raincoat
   * Rain Boots

Tips & Warnings

• There are lots of parks and beaches in Charleston on which to sunbathe and/or have picnics. Marion Square in Downtown Charleston is a great picnic area, though you are no longer allowed to sunbathe in only bathing suits.
• If you know you'll be walking around a good deal, do not wear flip-flops. Opt for comfortable sneakers or flats instead.
• Charleston has "open-container" laws, so if you bring any sort of alcohol to your beach outing, make sure you have cups to pour beverages into.