What to Wear in Salem, Oregon in Fall (Ultimate Guide)

Got a fall trip planned to Salem, OR? Salem 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 64°F (that's 18°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 Salem, 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. And if you plan on doing any sightseeing, be sure to wear comfortable shoes. Nothing like a nasty blister to ruin a good vacation, right?

In just a second, I'll share my specific recommendations for exactly what to wear in Salem in fall—whether you're visiting the Oregon State Capitol, going on a ghost tour, exploring the Willamette Heritage Center, or visiting the Salem Art Museum.

🔗 What should women wear in Salem, Oregon in fall?

Salem 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, cardigans, sneakers or loafers, jeans, and light jacket. With these essentials, you’ll be all set to experience everything Salem has to offer.

🔗 Stylish hat

A good hat can be the difference between a great Salem 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 Salem, just know there's a hat for the occasion.

If you're stuck for ideas, here are some of my favorites:

🔗 Cardigans

A cardigan is the perfect piece of clothing to pack for a trip to Salem 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.

If you're stuck for ideas, here are some of my favorites:

🔗 Sneakers or loafers

Sneakers or loafers are essential for visiting Salem. They're comfortable, versatile, and easy to pack. And, when you're on your feet all day, they can help prevent aches and pains. But how do you know which sneakers or loafers to pack? If you'll be doing a lot of walking, opt for a sneaker with good arch support and cushioning. And don't forget style! Sneakers and loafers come in countless colors and designs, so pick something that goes with the rest of your outfits.

These options are both stylish and comfy:

🔗 Jeans

You just cannot go wrong with a good pair of jeans. They're comfortable, versatile, and easy to care for—not to mention they always look great. Whatever you're doing in Salem, jeans will always come in handy. Of course, not all jeans are created equal. Be sure to choose a pair that's comfortable and flattering. If you'll be doing a lot of walking, look for a light-weight denim that won't weigh you down. And if you're hoping to dress up for a nice dinner out, a dark wash denim will always do the trick.

Why not treat yourself before you go:

🔗 Light jacket

A light jacket is always a good idea to pack for Salem, 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.

These would be perfect:

🔗 What should men wear in Salem, Oregon in fall?

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

🔗 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.

Need some inspiration? Start here:

🔗 Sweaters

Sweaters are super versatile and can be dressed up or down, making them ideal for both day and evening wear in Salem. 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.

Here's a few ideas to get you started:

🔗 Light jacket

A light jacket is always a good idea to pack for Salem, 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 some of my favorites:

🔗 Stylish hat

A good hat can be the difference between a great Salem 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 Salem, just know there's a hat for the occasion.

These are some of my favorites:

🔗 Jeans or khakis

Jeans or khakis are surprisingly versatile when traveling. They can be dressed up or down, depending on the occasion, and they're perfect for cool evenings or air-conditioned restaurants and shops. When choosing jeans or khakis, look for comfortable styles with a bit of stretch. Darker washes tend to be more versatile, but feel free to pack a pair in a light denim or white if you know you'll have the opportunity to wear them.

These are some of my favorites:

I hope these recommendations for what to wear in Salem, Oregon 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 Salem has to offer!