The Ultimate Nashville Packing List

THE LUGGAGE

When it comes to packing, it’s all about the right bag for the right job. If you’ve been making do with a beat up old duffle or an ancient carry-on with a sticky wheel, you’ll be amazed at how a new bag makes travel so effortless. Every smart traveler should have three key pieces of luggage: a weekender bag for quickie getaways, a carry-on suitcase for week-long trips, and a larger suitcase for longer stays or travelers that overdo it on souvenirs. (Guilty!) For a weekender, we’re fans of the Away Everywhere bag. This little dynamo has separate pockets for your laptop, pens, reading materials, and phone, plus a waterproof umbrella compartment—genius when you visit a rainy destination. For a one-week trip, it’s hard to beat Away’s Carry-On—it changed the suitcase game with an ejectable battery for phone charging, smooth spinner wheels, and a lifetime warranty. And for any trips lasting two weeks or longer, go for the Travelpro Platinum Elite. There’s a reason flight crews swear by this luggage brand. This checked bag has gliding spinner wheels, a telescoped handle, and two-inches of zippered expansion. Consider yourself packed.

THE PACKING GEAR

Every packing hurdle is made easier with this trio of travel gear. Got a hotel room or cruise ship cabin with little counter space? This hanging toiletry bag will give you elbow room at the sink plus provide dedicated pockets for all your creams, gels, and sprays. Hang it on the bathroom door or over the towel rack to keep everything upright, protected, and in place. If you have an issue with overpacking—who doesn’t?—then packing cubes are a game-changer. This four-piece set will keep all your things, from underpants to electronics, organized and condensed, saving you precious suitcase space. And rather than depend on the freebie toiletries at the hotel (that harsh hotel soap will zap all the moisture from your skin), bring your own tried-and-true toiletries in these TSA-approved squeeze bottles.

THE IN-FLIGHT ESSENTIALS

Only travel amateurs get on a flight without bringing the essentials. A sleep mask not only blocks out cabin lights—it provides the privacy you need to get some Zs. The Trtl travel pillow is a travel editors’ favorite for keeping your neck and head comfortable as you nod off. And Comrad compression socks’ moisture-wicking technology keeps feet comfy and protects you from deep vein thrombosis. (Yikes!) Fly like a pro with these packing essentials.

NASHVILLE OUTFIT INSPIRATION

Let’s just get this out of the way—yes, you will spot your fair share of Nashville locals in cowboy hats and boots. And yes, you could get away with wearing them (at the right venue, of course) without looking like a tourist. That said, they’re just not a smart use of your suitcase’s limited space. Sure, they’re cute for nights out at honky tonk bars, but they’re not well-suited to long days spent walking around the hilly city. Instead, follow the local’s lead when it comes to Western- and rock-and-roll inspired picks that are both cute and comfortable. Nashville’s style is relaxed but trendy, so you’d do well to pack a few pairs of quality denim as well as breezy sundresses and a low-heel bootie that can be paired with both. Men will find that Nashville natives rock staples like dark denim, leather boots and jackets, and quality flannels. If you really want to break out your cowboy boots, wear them on the plane.

Women’s Outfits

Men’s Outfits

THE 3 PAIRS OF SHOES YOU’LL NEED FOR EXPLORING NASHVILLE

Between strolling Nashville’s hilly neighborhoods, going out at night to iconic venues like Tootsie’s, and biking your way around the city on a pedal-powered tavern, Nashville requires a few pairs of shoes. Ladies will want to pack walking-appropriate sneakers that pair well with not only jeans, but also skirts and sundresses. A strappy-yet-comfortable sandal does well for warm days and strolls around the Grand Ole Opry, while a suede, Western-inspired bootie will take you wherever your night leads. As for gents, a pair of rugged leather boots will fit right in with Nashville’s dapper crowd. It’s always good to have a pair of sneakers and dress shoes on hand as well. The first is ideal for visits to the Nashville Zoo, while the latter is a better pick for nights out on Honky Tonk Row—a spattering of the city’s most well-known bars on Broadway between First and Fifth avenues.

Women’s Shoes

WHAT TO PACK FOR LAS VEGAS

Click items to view travel editor-approved options

Clothing

• Underwear
• Bras
• Socks
• T-shirts
• Tops
• Pants
• Jeans
• Cover-ups

Clothing cont'd

• Shorts
• Dresses
• Skirts
• Leggings
• Lightweight Raincoat
• Swimsuits
• PJs

Shoes & Accessories

• Walking shoes
• Heels
• Sandals
• Sneakers
• Purse
• Hats
• Hair accessories

Accessories cont'd

• Glasses
• Sunglasses
• Jewelry
• Belts
• Lightweight scarf
• Fold-down tote
• Umbrella
• Money belt

Toiletries

• Toothbrush
• Toothpaste
• Dental floss
• Deodorant
• Face wash
• Body wash
• Shampoo
• Conditioner
• Sunscreen
• Lip balm

Toiletries cont.

• Makeup
• Moisturizer
• Contact lenses
• Contact lens solution
• Razor
• Shaving cream
• Brush and comb
• Ear plugs
• Eye mask

Toiletries cont.

• Tissues
• Hair styling tools
• Tampons and pads
• Condoms
• Hand sanitizer
• Bandages
• Bug spray
• Medication
• Vitamins
• Pain relievers
• Stain remover

Tech

• Phone
• Portable charger
• Headphones
• Laptop
• Tablet or E-reader
• Device chargers
• Power adaptors
• Camera
• Memory card
• Selfie stick

Other Essentials

• Wallet
• Passport
• Keys
• Medical insurance card
• Snacks
• Gum
• Water bottle (empty)
• Books
• Travel blanket or wrap
• Travel pillow
• Laundry bag

Helpful Printouts

• Emergency contacts
• Boarding pass
• Hotel and car rental reservations
• Maps and directions
• Bank and credit card contact info
• Copies of passport and ID

NASHVILLE’S WEATHER AND SEASONS

Like other cities in the Upper South, Nashville enjoys a pretty agreeable climate. Visitors will find hot, humid summers (but nothing too unbearable) and mild winters with little snow accumulation. Spring is the most unpredictable of Music City’s seasons. Some months, like May, can dump upwards of five inches of rain, and most of the region’s tornados also hit during this time. That said, Nashville delights no matter the season. Year-round you’ll find festivals celebrating everything that makes the city great, including country music, whiskey, and even hot chicken. A good rule of thumb when packing for your trip is to prepare for every element with adequate layers. With a midweight jacket, flannel shirt, and umbrella in tow, you can rarely go wrong.

Note: Below is a packing forecast, not a traditional forecast. A packing forecast focuses on how cold it’s likely to be in the early mornings and evenings based on historical data. Note that precipitation is an average per day, and not the entire month. We recommend using this together with a traditional forecast as you get closer to your departure date. This data comes from our friends at Weather Underground.

JANUARY

• Plan for day temps between 23° F and 40° F
• Temps will drop near 16° F at night and into the early mornings
• Expect 0.17 inches of precipitation in January

What to Wear in Nashville in January: This month is Nashville’s coldest with midday temps that drop into the 30s. Highs can, however, hop into the 60s, so pack a warm coat and layers that can easily be stowed in a backpack or tote.

Recommendations: Women’s winter jacket, women’s gold pullover sweater, stitched scarf

FEBRUARY

• Plan for day temps between 33°F and 49° F
• Temps will drop near 22° F at night and into the early mornings
• Expect 0.56 inches of precipitation in February

What to Wear in Nashville in February: Weather this month is really a mixed bag; temps could take a swing toward spring and soar into the 60s, or a cold bout could bring through rain or even a little snow. Prep for all the elements by packing a water- and windproof coat, ample layers, and a trusty umbrella.

Recommendations: Bubble umbrella, men’s waterproof coat, men’s waterproof boots

MARCH

• Plan for day temps between 36° F and 51° F
• Temps will drop near 26° F at night and into the early mornings
• Expect 0.17 inches of precipitation in March

What to Wear in Nashville in March: Weather is on the up and up come March. Expect days that hover in the high 50s and 60s. You’ll likely no longer need a parka, but still be sure to pack a light jacket.

Recommendations: Women’s black skinny jeans, women’s denim jacket, women’s relaxed T-shirt 

APRIL

• Plan for day temps between 38° F and 56° F
• Temps will drop near 30° F at night and into the early mornings
• Expect 0.20 inches of precipitation in April

What to Wear in Nashville in April:  Weather can still be unpredictable come April, but with average daytime temps in the 60s and 70s and comedy, food, and music festivals aplenty, the month kicks off Music City’s peak tourist season. Pack breathable layers—Nashville’s humidity level hovers around 70 percent the whole year—and you’ll be good to go.

Recommendations: Men’s twill pants, Adidas sneakers, men’s short-sleeved chambray

MAY

• Plan for day temps between 64° F and 76° F
• Temps will drop near 48° F at night and into the early mornings
• Expect 0.20 inches of precipitation in May

What to Wear in Nashville in May: With average temps in the high 70s, May is one of the loveliest times to touchdown in Nashville. Pack your sunnies, comfy footwear (you’ll walk a lot), and some airy skirts and sundresses.

Recommendations: Lace-up sandals, cat-eye sunglasses, floral midi skirt

JUNE

• Plan for day temps between 72° F and 80° F
• Temps will drop near 60° F at night and into the early mornings
• Expect 0.15 inches of precipitation in June

What to Wear in Nashville in June: This month is when Music City’s high humidity really starts to rear its ugly head. To combat the stickiness, pack lots of light pieces like breezy sundresses and swingy tops.

Recommendations: Denim belt skirt, tunic dress, swingy tunic top

JULY

• Plan for day temps between 72° F and 80° F
• Temps will drop near 60° F at night and into the early mornings
• Expect 0.15 inches of precipitation in June

What to Wear in Nashville in July: Now that Nashville has fully descended into summer, things get hot, hot, hot. With daytime temperatures soaring into the 80s and 90s, don’t step foot outside until you make sure you have a water bottle, sunscreen, and sunglasses on hand.

Recommendations: Tortoiseshell sunglasses, S’well water bottle, sunscreen

AUGUST

• Plan for day temps between 72° F and 80° F
• Temps will drop near 60° F at night and into the early mornings
• Expect 0.15 inches of precipitation in June

What to Wear in Nashville in August: August is still peak summer in Nashville, and like in other southern cities, that means heat and humidity are here to stay. Pack light t-shirts, shorts, and sandals to contend with balmy temps.

Recommendations: Men’s pocket t-shirt, men’s chino shorts, ankle socks

SEPTEMBER

• Plan for day temps between 72° F and 80° F
• Temps will drop near 60° F at night and into the early mornings
• Expect 0.15 inches of precipitation in June

What to Wear in Nashville in September: Summer’s high temps continue through September. If you plan on attending one of the city’s multi-day music festivals or outdoor food and wine events, make sure you have plenty of water and sunscreen on hand. A cap wouldn’t hurt, either.

Recommendations: Gingham dress, chic sunglasses, midi dress

OCTOBER

• Plan for day temps between 72° F and 80° F
• Temps will drop near 60° F at night and into the early mornings
• Expect 0.15 inches of precipitation in June

What to Wear in Nashville in October: With mild temperatures ranging anywhere from the 50s to the 70s, October is a lovely time to visit Nashville. You’ll catch the trees shedding their summer green for fiery autumnal shades (make sure you have time for a ride down the Natchez Parkway), but you’ll still fare well with just a light coat come nightfall.

Recommendations: Men’s field coat, men’s ripped jeans, women’s boxy jacket

NOVEMBER

• Plan for day temps between 72° F and 80° F
• Temps will drop near 60° F at night and into the early mornings
• Expect 0.15 inches of precipitation in June

What to Wear in Nashville in November: Daytime temps rarely fall below the 40s in November, but cold snaps are common. Plan to dress in layers; pack jeans, light sweaters, and some short sleeve shirts for the odd warm day.

Recommendations: Pullover sweater, straight-rise jeans, denim jacket

DECEMBER

• Plan for day temps between 34° F and 45° F
• Temps will drop near 20° F at night and into the early mornings
• Expect 0.19 inches of precipitation in December

What to Wear in Nashville in December: Anticipating December’s forecast can be a little tricky; you could have a cold front one day and a warm front the day following. Luckily, snowfall doesn’t start until January, but you will want to bring a rain jacket as it’s likely to rain.

Recommendations: Women’s rain jacket, men’s crewneck sweatshirt, men’s water repellent jacket

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT PACKING FOR NASHVILLE

Which Nashville neighborhoods are the best to visit?

This is nearly an impossible question to answer. Nashville’s nabes each offer their own diversions. You can go antique shopping on 8th Avenue/Melrose; bar-hop Downtown (Lower Broadway) or in SoBro (south of Broadway); stroll Victorian-home-lined streets in Germantown; sit down for a fancy dinner in The Gulch; or get your caffeine fix in 12South. Before you decide, check out a full list of Nashville’s neighborhoods here.

I’m visiting the Music City in January; do I need to pack a jacket?

Short answer: Yes! Long answer: With daytime temps that can dip into the 30s, January is Nashville’s coldest month. While you won’t need an Arctic-level parka, you’ll definitely want to pack at least a midweight coat that can contend with occasional snow flurries.

What is the best outfit to wear going dancing in Nashville?

Duck into any bar on Lower Broadway and you’ll see people sporting every type of fashion from country to rock-and-roll. While it’s always wise to check a venue’s website ahead of time for dress code regulations, there’s really no uniform for a night out in Nashville. If you’re comfortable in jeans and a tee, go for it. More of a glamour gal? That’s fair game too.

I heard it always rains in Nashville; what is the best umbrella to pack?

With an average of 47 inches of precipitation each year, Nashville ranks as the 10th-most rainy city in the U.S. To combat downpours, you’ll want to have a trusty travel umbrella on hand. While dozens of umbrellas tout themselves as windproof, the Magictec Umbrella has hundreds of five-star reviews backing up its claim that it can withstand up to 55 MPH gusts. Best of all, you can snag one for less than $20 on Amazon.

What should I wear to visit the Country Music Hall of Fame or the Grand Ole Opry?

Neither the Country Music Hall of Fame nor the Grand Ole Opry have dress codes. In fact, the latter states on its website that “you’ll see everything from faded jeans to business suits, cowboy hats to your Sunday best. Just remember a rule we take very seriously…you have to wear something!” For women, we’d go with a simple jeans and tee outfit, slightly dressed up with a Western bootie and fun belt. For men, a simple henley, pair of jeans, and Doc Martens boots will not only suit your Country Music Hall of Fame tour, but also a casual dinner and drinks afterward.

What should I wear to Tootsies? What should I wear to see live music on Music Row?

Going out for a night of boot stompin’ live music? Iconic Tootsies doesn’t have a strict dress code, so you can wear whatever you’re comfortable in. We’re enamored with this eyelet midi dress which pairs perfectly with a jean jacket and espadrilles. Dudes can opt for khakis, a flannel, and an Americana-inspired boot like a pair from Frye, one of the States’ leading leather manufacturers.

What should I wear to the Nashville Zoo or to The Adventure Science Center?

The cornerstone of your zoo outfit should be a comfortable pair of shoes—it’s time to tuck away your boots and opt for sneakers. From the ankles up, the options are really endless, but we always suggest bringing a pair of sunglasses and sunscreen if the weather calls for it.

What should I wear on a Nashville walking tour? What should I wear to see street art? What should I wear sightseeing?

Looking to take a new profile pic or Instagram shot on your walking tour of Nashville? Keep things cool and casual while searching for street art or learning about the city’s civil right’s movement. A mini backpack will hold all your essentials like a water bottle, sunglasses, and wallet.

What should I wear to go shopping in Nashville’s Green Hills, 12 South or Germantown neighborhoods?

A shopping trip calls for comfort and cuteness. Take a page out of Nashville natives’ books. For women, a flowy midi dress and flat suede sandals are a surefire way to look chic while shopping. Men can keep things cool and casual with slim jeans and a flannel shirt.

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