Packing for London sounds easy until you’re halfway across the world, knee-deep in a puddle, with zero clue how to dry your socks and no way to charge your phone. Trust me, I’ve been there. I learned the hard way that what you pack can make or break your trip to the UK’s bustling capital.
Whether it’s your first trip to London or your tenth, there are a few smart buys that will make your holiday even more enjoyable. These aren’t just the obvious London essentials you’ll find on every London packing list. These are the clever, often-overlooked things to buy for London from Amazon that’ll make your life so much easier once you land.
That’s where Amazon comes in. It’s fast, it’s easy, and it has pretty much everything. These 15 useful things to buy from Amazon for London cover the whole year, summer, winter and everything in between. Just click, pack, and go. No last-minute stress shopping at Heathrow required.
This is the list you want so you’re not that tourist stuck in the rain without an umbrella. If you’re wondering what to pack for London, start with the essentials that’ll keep you dry, charged, and comfortable from morning Tube rides to late-night pub crawls.
You might also find this article useful Planning A Trip To London: 12 BIG Mistakes To Avoid.
15 Useful Things To Buy From Amazon Before Visiting London
1. Compact Windproof Travel Umbrella
It rains in London. A lot. But not in a dramatic, thunderstorm kind of way it’s more like surprise drizzle followed by blustery mist. A compact, windproof umbrella is a total lifesaver. Just make sure it’s sturdy enough not to flip inside-out the second the wind picks up (speaking from experience).
I personally always love a red or yellow umbrellas as they photography really well against a grey sky but that’s just my choice. An umbrella , whatever color, is essential.
Spring can be the most challenging time to pack for this might help What To Wear In London In Spring.
Check Out This Umbrella on Amazon
2. UK Plug Adapter with USB Ports
The UK uses different plugs (Type G), and your US electronics won’t fit without an adapter. I recommend grabbing one with built-in USB ports so you can charge multiple things at once, especially helpful in hotel rooms where outlets are limited.
Also note that most of your US electronics are unlikely to work without a voltage convertor. UK uses 230V while the US uses 110V. Check to see if the item is dual voltage or buy a convertor or leave the item at home.
3. Comfy Waterproof Shoes for Walking
London is a walking city. Whether you’re exploring Notting Hill, wandering along the Thames, or conquering every floor of the British Museum, your feet will be doing serious mileage. Waterproof sneakers or boots are a must, even in summer, there’s always a rogue puddle waiting to soak your socks or some cobblestones to catch you off guard.
Having comfortable shoes will make or break your holiday so think ahead a little.
These shoes are lightweight, waterproof and slip resistant
4. Lightweight Rain Jacket
A good rain jacket is a year-round staple in London. Look for one that’s waterproof (not just water-resistant), lightweight, breathable and packable. Bonus if it has a hood, umbrellas are great, but sometimes the wind just laughs at them to be honest.
Again I love a red or yellow coat as they stand out and look good in photos but that’s purely aesthetic.
This jacket will work well for London.
5. Crossbody Anti-Theft Bag
The Tube during rush hour is no joke. Keep your valuables close with a slim, zippered crossbody bag that sits securely in front of you. Anti-theft features like RFID-blocking or locking zippers are a bonus, especially in busy areas like Camden Market or Piccadilly Circus.
I have to say London in general I have always found very safe compared to some other capital cities but taking precautions is smart.
6. Reusable Water Bottle with Filter
Tap water in London is clean and drinkable so don’t waste your money on bottled water. A reusable bottle with a built-in filter is perfect for filling up on the go and staying hydrated between attractions.
London doesn’t have many drinking fountains so places to fill up your bottle can be few and far between. My London friends tell me they just always order a glass of tap water when they eat and pour that in.
Take A Look At These Water Bottles
7. Contactless Wallet or Coin Purse
Contactless payment is everywhere in London, buses, shops, even public toilets (yep). But you’ll still need coins now and then, especially for markets or older cafés. A slim wallet that holds cards and coins keeps you covered either way.
8. Power Bank (Because Google Maps Eats Battery)
You’ll rely on your phone a lot, navigation, photos, restaurant reviews, you name it. A portable charger ensures you won’t be stuck at 4% while trying to find your way back to the hotel after a pub dinner in Soho. Make sure whichever you get is compactable with UK voltage.
Check The Price Of This Power Bank
9. Travel-size Umbrella Holder or Wet Bag
Yes I now this sounds niche, but hear me out: carrying a soaking wet umbrella into shops or restaurants is the worst. A small waterproof bag keeps the rest of your stuff dry. You can also use it for wet clothes, snacks, or anything you want to keep separate in your day bag.
You will thank me for this one later.
10. Noise-Cancelling Earbuds (for the Tube + Flights)
From screaming jet engines to chatter on the Victoria Line, having a little peace and quiet is golden. If you have sensory issues London can be a lot. Noise-cancelling earbuds are perfect for long-haul flights, city buses, or zoning out in Hyde Park.
11. Pack of Clear Zip Bags (for Heathrow security rules)
UK airports have strict liquid rules, and security can be extra picky. Bring your own clear quart-size zip bags so you’re not scrambling at the airport for the freebie ones (which, let’s be real, usually rip). Here are the rules on travelling with liquids.
12. Basic First Aid Kit or Travel Pharmacy
There’s nothing worse than trying to find blister plasters or ibuprofen when you’re jet-lagged and your feet are killing you. A mini travel pharmacy with basics like plasters, cold meds, and pain relief is a lifesaver.
This has all you need and comes in many designs
13. Cute London-Themed Tote Bag (for shopping & the vibes)
London has a bag tax, and stores charge for plastic or paper bags. A reusable tote saves you money and you won’t feel our of place as most people have them. Bonus if it has a cute London design, you’ll end up using it at home too.
14. Adjustable Phone Lanyard Strap
Keep your phone secure and easily accessible while exploring London with an adjustable phone lanyard. It will ensure you don’t drop our phone or it isn’t snatched form your hand. Most fit most phones and are versatile enough to hold other essentials like AirPods or keys.
This strap seems really robust.
15. Travel-Sized Stain Remover Pen
Let’s be real, between meat pies, curry chips, and gravy, spills will happen. A stain remover pen is one of those genius little things that takes up no room but can save your outfit in seconds. I dont go anywhere without one.
London is the kind of city that surprises you in the best way. One minute you’re ducking into a cozy pub, the next you’re standing in front of the Tower of London with your umbrella turned inside out. That’s part of the charm.
But a little prep goes a long way. These Amazon London essentials will allow you to focus on the good stuff (like where to find the best afternoon tea) rather than what if it rains. From practical items like plug adapters and power banks to clever, London-specific finds, these are the things to buy from Amazon before London to make your trip smooth, stylish, and low-stress.
So if you’re asking yourself what to pack for London, or searching for things to buy from Amazon before London, start here. One Amazon order later, and you’ll be ready for whatever the city throws at you, rain, cobblestones, and all.
Here is a Epic 3 day itinerary you can steal.
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