Manchester, New Hampshire in Fall: What to Wear

Got a fall trip planned to Manchester, NH? Manchester can be fun to visit in the fall, but you'll want to make sure you're dressed right. The weather is mild and dry, with temperatures averaging around 61°F (that's 16°C). So what should you wear so you can stay comfy and fit in with the local vibe?

To make the most of your trip to Manchester, a good rule of thumb is to pack comfortable clothing that you can layer. Loose-fitting clothing in breathable fabrics will keep you cool in warmer weather, while a light jacket or cardigan will come in handy for cooler days or evenings. For footwear, comfortable walking shoes are a must. You'll be doing a lot of walking to take in all the sights, so you want to make sure your shoes won't give you blisters.

In just a second, I'll share my specific recommendations for exactly what to wear in Manchester in fall—whether you're skiing or snowboarding at Waterville Valley Resort, visiting the Currier Museum of Art, strolling through the Mills Falls Historic District, or hiking in the White Mountains.

🔗 What should women wear in Manchester, New Hampshire in fall?

Manchester in fall is generally mild, and there are a few key items you'll want to pack. Here's what I definitely wouldn't go without: stylish hat, denim jacket, walking boots, long-sleeved shirts, and cardigans. With these essentials, you’ll be all set to experience everything Manchester has to offer.

🔗 Stylish hat

A good hat can be the difference between a great Manchester trip and a terrible one. Not only do hats help you look your best in photos, but they also make you feel more confident and put-together as you explore, adding a touch of style to any outfit. To choose the right hat, consider both function and fashion. A wide-brimmed straw hat is perfect for protecting your face from the sun (a good idea in all weather!) while a trilby is ideal for nights out on the town. No matter what your plans are in Manchester, just know there's a hat for the occasion.

This is the kind of thing I mean:

🔗 Denim jacket

A denim jacket is great to have in Manchester. They are stylish and can be dressed up or down, making them perfect for any occasion. Denim jackets are also very versatile. They can be worn over a dress for a night out or with jeans and a t-shirt for a casual day exploring. Best of all, denim jackets are lightweight and easy to pack, making them ideal for travel. When choosing a denim jacket for Manchester, look for one that is comfortable and flattering. A classic denim jacket will never go out of style and can be worn year after year. For a more unique look, try a distressed denim jacket or one with embellishments such as embroidery or beads.

Any of these should work:

🔗 Walking boots

Walking boots are a must-have item for Manchester, especially if your trip involves hiking or spending time outdoors. They provide support and stability on uneven terrain, and they also protect your feet from rocks, roots, and other hazards. When choosing walking boots, it's important to pick a pair that fits well and provides enough support for your ankles. It's also a good idea to get them ahead of time and break them in before you go on your trip, so you can avoid blisters when you're there.

This is the kind of thing I mean:

🔗 Long-sleeved shirts

Long-sleeved shirts are an essential part of any travel wardrobe. They can be dressed up or down, and they offer sun protection on bright days. When choosing a long-sleeved shirt for Manchester, it's important to look for one that is comfortable and breathable. A lightweight cotton shirt is a good option, as it will keep you cool in warm weather and can be layered under a sweater or jacket when the temperature drops. It's also a good idea to choose a shirt in a neutral color that can be easily paired with other items in your suitcase.

These are some of my favorites:

🔗 Cardigans

A cardigan is the perfect piece of clothing to pack for a trip to Manchester in fall. They are lightweight, versatile, and easy to care for. Cardigans can be dressed up or down, and they work well in both warm and cool weather. When choosing a cardigan for travel, natural fibers such as cotton or wool are great (though synthetic equivalents can work well too). You mostly just want to look for fabric that breathes well so it will keep you comfortable in all types of weather.

Need some inspiration? Start here:

🔗 What should men wear in Manchester, New Hampshire in fall?

For guys, here's the list of essentials I recommend you start with: sweaters, loafers or dress shoes, stylish hat, light jacket, and collared shirts. With these in your suitcase, I guarantee you will enjoy your trip to Manchester in comfort and style.

🔗 Sweaters

Sweaters are super versatile and can be dressed up or down, making them ideal for both day and evening wear in Manchester. They also take up less space than other types of warm clothing, so you can pack more sweaters into your suitcase without sacrificing style. When choosing sweaters for travel, look for ones that are made of wrinkle-resistant fabric, such as Merino wool or cashmere. These materials will help to keep you warm without adding bulk.

These are some of my favorites:

🔗 Loafers or dress shoes

While most people focus on packing their casual clothes and shoes for travel, it's important to remember to pack a pair or two of dressier shoes as well. Loafers and dress shoes can come in handy for a number of different occasions, from wedding receptions to nights out on the town. And while you might not want to spend a lot of money on shoes that you'll only be wearing occasionally, it's still worth investing in a good quality pair that will be comfortable and last for years to come.

This is the kind of thing I mean:

🔗 Stylish hat

A good hat can be the difference between a great Manchester trip and a terrible one. Not only do hats help you look your best in photos, but they also make you feel more confident and put-together as you explore, adding a touch of style to any outfit. To choose the right hat, consider both function and fashion. A wide-brimmed straw hat is perfect for protecting your face from the sun (a good idea in all weather!) while a trilby is ideal for nights out on the town. No matter what your plans are in Manchester, just know there's a hat for the occasion.

Why not treat yourself before you go:

🔗 Light jacket

A light jacket is always a good idea to pack for Manchester, even if the weather is forecast to be warm. You never know when the weather will change or you'll end up in an air-conditioned place. They're also useful for protection from the sun and wind. And of course, it can get chilly in the evenings. But not all light jackets are created equal. For example, denim jackets are great for everyday wear but they're not always packable because they can be bulky. A better option is something like a nylon windbreaker which can be rolled up into a small bundle.

Here are a few of my top picks:

🔗 Collared shirts

A lot of people think that collared shirts are only for work, but they can actually be really handy when traveling too. For one thing, they can help you dress up if you need to go someplace nice for dinner or a show. But how can you tell which collared shirts are worth packing? You can never go wrong with ones that are made from light, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen.

Any of these should work:

I hope these recommendations for what to wear in Manchester, New Hampshire will help make your fall visit unforgettable. Now that you have a better idea of what clothing to take, it's time to pack your suitcase—and then go ahead and enjoy everything Manchester has to offer!