Comments on How to Pack for a Trip to San Francisco

I have lived in the Bay Area my whole life (except a brief escape to college for a few years) and the city is pretty cold. It is the last week of August (for example, as I write this) and the weather is predicted to be in the mid to high 60's all week long. Sometimes in September or May it gets warm, but nix the shorts. If it does get hot when you are visiting the city, you will never be that hot that you wish you had shorts--pants and tees/tanks are always OK. I rarely have had a time where I was in the city and wished I had shorts on. It never gets hot like that in the city; surrounding suburbs and areas, yes, it can get hot, but not in the city itself.

I have lived in the Bay Area my whole life (except a brief escape to college for a few years) and the city is pretty cold. It is the last week of August (for example, as I write this) and the weather is predicted to be in the mid to high 60's all week long. Sometimes in September or May it gets warm, but nix the shorts. If it does get hot when you are visiting the city, you will never be that hot that you wish you had shorts--pants and tees/tanks are always OK. I rarely have had a time where I was in the city and wished I had shorts on. It never gets hot like that in the city; surrounding suburbs and areas, yes, it can get hot, but not in the city itself.

Do not pack just shorts and a tshirt! It is not that sunny or warm especially in the winter. Even if you are going in the summer, pack pants and a sweatshirt! It gets cold!!

I have lived in San Francisco almost 50 years and my wardrobe is the same all year long. From shorts, tank top and Birkenstock's, to long pants, long sleeved shirts, windbreaker type jacket with hood (water resistant, a plus for those foggy nights or early mornings) all in one day. If you are going to be going out to eat in the higher priced range, bring a jacket and a tie. The ones they hand out at the restaurants (that require them) are not the best. Women - nice slacks (or even better) a skirt and blouse, even with sandals, are usually fine. This is the best place to just walk and look. I am still amazed at how often I turn a corner and my breath is taken away by the beauty of a new view of the city by the bay. And, this is very important, never call it 'Frisco!

San Francisco, like most cities, is large. Often when traveling with small children or other family members, it is easy to get lost among the various sounds, sights, and smells of San Francisco. A set of walkie talkies, with extra batteries, is a wise investment for the travel-savvy. Roaming charges of cell phones will not apply and you will not need to search for a phone. \\The streets of San Francisco are more confusing than other cities, so getting lost is easier. A walkie-talkie will prevent a catastrophic outing.

I have lived in San Francisco almost 50 years and my wardrobe is the same all year long. From shorts, tank top and Birkenstock's, to long pants, long sleeved shirts, windbreaker type jacket with hood (water resistant, a plus for those foggy nights or early mornings) all in one day. If you are going to be going out to eat in the higher priced range, bring a jacket and a tie. The ones they hand out at the restaurants (that require them) are not the best. Women - nice slacks (or even better) a skirt and blouse, even with sandals, are usually fine. This is the best place to just walk and look. I am still amazed at how often I turn a corner and my breath is taken away by the beauty of a new view of the city by the bay. And, this is very important, never call it 'Frisco!

Do not pack just shorts and a tshirt! It is not that sunny or warm especially in the winter. Even if you are going in the summer, pack pants and a sweatshirt! It gets cold!!

Do not come to San Francisco expecting Bay Watch-like weather. Expect cold windy mornings; it warms up at noon, and cools down again at night. Layers! Dress in layers. Come to San Francisco for the culture; if you come for the weather you'll be sad.