San Francisco, California in Fall: What to Wear

Got a fall trip planned to San Francisco, CA? San Francisco 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 68°F (that's 20°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 San Francisco, 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 San Francisco in fall—whether you're visiting the Golden Gate Bridge, exploring Alcatraz Island, riding a cable car, checking out Chinatown, or visiting the Palace of Fine Arts.

🔗 What should women wear in San Francisco, California in fall?

San Francisco 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: pashmina, lightweight pants, comfortable flats or loafers, sweaters, and light jacket. With these essentials, you’ll be all set to experience everything San Francisco has to offer.

🔗 Pashmina

A pashmina is a must-have accessory for a trip to San Francisco. They can be used as a scarf, sarong, blanket, or even a headscarf. They are light and easy to pack, yet they provide warmth and color to any outfit. Pashminas come in a variety of colors and patterns, so it's easy to find one that compliments your personal style. When choosing a pashmina, look for one that is made from natural fibers such as wool or cashmere. These fibers are not only more durable, but they will also breathe better and keep you covered without making you sweat.

These are some of my favorites:

🔗 Lightweight pants

If you're planning a trip to San Francisco that involves any sort of physical activity—hiking, climbing, biking, etc.—you'll want to pack a pair or two of lightweight pants. They're much more comfortable than jeans or khakis when you're sweating, and they'll dry much faster if you get caught in a rain shower. You can also roll them up and stuff them into your backpack or suitcase without taking up too much space.

Here are some of my favorites:

🔗 Comfortable flats or loafers

Packing the right shoes for San Francisco can make the difference between a comfortable trip and a difficult one. While there are many factors to consider when packing your shoes, comfort is always the most important. Flats or loafers are a great option for travel, as they can be easily slipped on and off at security checkpoints and are generally super comfortable to walk in.

Here are a few of my top picks:

🔗 Sweaters

Sweaters are super versatile and can be dressed up or down, making them ideal for both day and evening wear in San Francisco. 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 are some of my favorites:

🔗 Light jacket

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

Why not grab yourself something new before you go:

🔗 What should men wear in San Francisco, California in fall?

For guys, here's the list of essentials I recommend you start with: cardigans, collared shirts, lightweight comfortable shoes, lightweight pants, and stylish hat. With these in your suitcase, I guarantee you will enjoy your trip to San Francisco in comfort and style.

🔗 Cardigans

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

These options are both stylish and comfy:

🔗 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.

Here are some options I'd recommend:

🔗 Lightweight comfortable shoes

Traveling can be tough on your feet. You're constantly on the move, walking through airports and down crowded streets. And even if you're just sitting on a plane or in a car, your feet can start to swell after hours of being confined in one position. That's why it's important to pack comfortable, lightweight shoes that won't add too much weight to your luggage. But how do you know which shoes are right for San Francisco? Look for ones made from breathable materials like mesh or canvas. They should also have good arch support and a cushioned sole to help reduce fatigue.

Here's a few ideas to get you started:

🔗 Lightweight pants

If you're planning a trip to San Francisco that involves any sort of physical activity—hiking, climbing, biking, etc.—you'll want to pack a pair or two of lightweight pants. They're much more comfortable than jeans or khakis when you're sweating, and they'll dry much faster if you get caught in a rain shower. You can also roll them up and stuff them into your backpack or suitcase without taking up too much space.

Need some inspiration? Start here:

🔗 Stylish hat

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

Here are some of my favorites:

I hope these recommendations for what to wear in San Francisco, California 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 San Francisco has to offer!