What to Pack for New Hampshire: Trail to Town, Any Season
From Lake Winnipesaukee docks to Mount Washington ridgelines, pack breathable layers, a rain shell, sturdy boots, microspikes in winter, and bug spray for ticks, plus one flannel for Main Street dinners.
Updated on October 24, 2025
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Packing for New Hampshire can feel like planning for two trips at once: lazy lake mornings and alpine wind by afternoon. Consider a simple formula of comfort with polish, built on modular layers that move from Main Street to mountain hut. This guide shows what locals rely on, what to skip, and how to stay ready without overstuffing your bag.
Style here leans practical New England: tidy, outdoorsy, and low drama. Clean lines, deeper hues, and shoes that handle distance fit in at farmers markets, covered bridges, and casual dinners. Days are about movement. Evenings need only one quiet upgrade to feel put together in Portsmouth, Hanover, or a village inn bar. Aim for neat, not fancy.
Weather is a shape-shifter. Summer runs humid at 68–86°F around lakes, yet ridge lines can cool fast once clouds build. Fall brings bright days at 41–68°F with sharp breezes, while spring flips from 32–59°F and mud underfoot. Winter is real, from -4°F in the Whites to around 23–32°F in towns. Pack a light shell and a warm layer even on sunny days.
The guide ahead starts with a layering plan that works across valleys and peaks, then pairs it with the right footwear and weatherproof shells. From there we cover navigation and safety basics, seasonal add-ons like microspikes and insect repellent, what to skip, and packing strategies for hiking days, lake time, ski trips, and short or long stays, whether you go carry-on or checked.
Part 1: Packing Essentials
Packing List
Adults
Clothing
Footwear
Essentials
Kids Clothing
Kids Footwear
Infant Clothing & Outerwear
Infant Sleep & Feeding
Daily Day Bag Checklist — New Hampshire
What you'll carry for a typical day exploring the city.
Part 2: Style & Weather
From Lakes to Peaks: New Hampshire Weather Guide
New Hampshire swings from hot, humid lake summers (68-86°F) to crisp spring rains and explosive fall foliage (41-68°F), with cold, snowy winters that hit -4°F in alpine zones. Sharp microclimate contrasts between lowland lakeshores and the White Mountains mean rapid temperature swings, sudden storms, and chilly nights—pack layered, waterproof, and ready for self-sufficiency.
Monthly Temperature Guide
| Month | High | Low |
|---|---|---|
| Jan | 28°F | 14°F |
| Feb | 32°F | 16°F |
| Mar | 39°F | 23°F |
| Apr | 52°F | 34°F |
| May | 64°F | 45°F |
| Jun | 75°F | 55°F |
| Jul | 81°F | 61°F |
| Aug | 79°F | 59°F |
| Sep | 70°F | 52°F |
| Oct | 57°F | 41°F |
| Nov | 45°F | 30°F |
| Dec | 34°F | 19°F |
Seasonal Insights
spring
Spring 32-59°F: mud, showers and cool nights. Pack a merino base, fleece mid-layer and waterproof shell. Wear waterproof hiking boots or trail shoes with gaiters; carry a pack rain cover and insect repellent for grassy trails.
summer
Summer brings humid 68-86°F lake days and sudden thunderstorms. Pack moisture-wicking tops, a light layer for cool evenings, quick-dry shorts and waterproof sandals; bring tick repellent and plan morning hikes to avoid afternoon heat and bugs.
fall
Fall delivers vivid 41-68°F days and brisk, windy ridge conditions. Layer a long-sleeve base, a light insulating mid and a windproof shell; bring a warm hat, extra socks and sturdy boots for leaf-covered roots. Time hikes for midday light.
winter
Winter 23-32°F lowlands, down to -4°F in the White Mountains. Layer merino base, insulating mid and waterproof insulated parka; warm gloves, hat and insulated boots are essential. Carry microspikes, headlamp and a winter roadside kit; expect slow travel.
New Hampshire Style Compass
From sticky summer lake afternoons to sub-zero White Mountain nights, New Hampshire style is utilitarian and quietly refined. Prioritize modular layering, weatherproof shells, and durable fabrics that transition from Main Street to trailhead. Think merino next to denim, lightweight shells over fleece, and footwear built for rocky terrain and slippery town streets.
The Local Dress Code
Expect casual New England dress: functional, modest, and outdoors-forward. Towns favor layered practical pieces and neat smart-casual for restaurants; modest attire is customary for historic sites and places of worship. Avoid flashy formalwear unless dining at upscale venues.
Practical New England style that moves from lake days to alpine summits: modular layering, trail-ready footwear, and town-ready pieces for variable 0–30°C conditions across seasons.
Style at a Glance
- • Layer modularly: merino base, fleece mid, waterproof shell
- • Functional fits — slim bases, relaxed mid-layers, trim shells
- • Prioritize trail-ready footwear with town-leather options
- • Mix technical fabrics with denim or heavy cotton for towns
- • Pack insect protection and waterproofing for spring–summer
Color Palette
Shopping in the City
Shop for layering basics, technical outerwear, and durable footwear before remote trips; small towns have essentials but limited specialty stock. Focus on performance fabrics, traction-ready soles, and compact packs.
Brands to Look For
LL Bean: Regional classic for durable outerwear, packable rain shells, and casual town footwear built to handle New England weather and gravel streets. ($$ - $$$)
Patagonia: Trusted technical layers and shells with responsible materials—good for alpine hikes, breathable rain protection, and insulating mid-layers. ($$$ - $$$$)
Darn Tough: High-durability merino socks made for long days on rocky trails and wet conditions—small investment that pays off in comfort and blister prevention. ($ - $$)
White Mountain Outfitters: Local outfitter specializing in traction devices, navigation gear, and trail-ready footwear — useful when planning multi-day White Mountain treks. ($$ - $$$)
Portsmouth Clothier: Town boutique offering smart-casual pieces—denim, sweaters, and leather sneakers for Main Street dining and market strolls. ($$ - $$$)
Where to Shop
North Conway: Outdoor stores, hiking gear, traction devices and trail footwear
Portsmouth Downtown: Boutiques, leather sneakers, and smart-casual pieces
Concord / Manchester: General stores and chains for basics and emergency supplies
Neighborhood Vibes
Portsmouth: Coastal, slightly preppy and polished — lightweight layers, breathable knits, and casual loafers or leather sneakers suit waterfront strolls and dinner on Main Street.
Hanover: College-town practical with tailored casuals — denim, merino pullovers, and neat insulated vests are common for campus walks, cafés, and riverside paths.
White Mountains: Essentially technical: performance base layers, insulating mid-layers, waterproof shells, and ankle-support boots. Pack for sudden temperature swings and alpine wind.
Seasonal Outfit Formulas
spring
Trail-Ready Layering — Day hikes in melting trails and cool ridge winds.
- • Merino base layer: Breathable, odor-resistant next-to-skin layer
- • Convertible hiking pants
- • Waterproof shell
- • Hiking boots
- • Daypack with rain cover
Village Stroll — Cafés, farmers markets, and short walks along Main Street.
- • Cotton-merino sweater
- • Straight denim
- • Leather sneakers: Clean, comfortable for cobbles and shops
- • Light quilted vest
summer
Lake Day Comfort — Hot, humid 20–30°C lake afternoons and boating.
Foliage-Recon in Summer — Trail approach and short summit for photography and views.
fall
Foliage Drive Layering — Cool 5–20°C days for leaf-peeping and roadside views.
Short Summit Hike — Brisk ridge walks with gusty winds and quick temp drops.
winter
Alpine Winter Trek — Cold alpine hikes with -10 to -20°C peaks and wind.
Town Winter Weekend — Short stay in Portsmouth or Concord with cold lowland nights.
Footwear Guidelines
- • Primary hiking boots with ankle support for White Mountain trails
- • Waterproof trail runners for wet, rocky day hikes and faster approaches
- • Insulated winter boots with aggressive tread and room for warm socks
- • Casual leather sneakers or boots for towns and evenings
Accessory Guidelines
- • Pack a compact daypack with integrated rain cover
- • Carry microspikes or traction devices in winter and icy conditions
- • Bring merino socks and insect-repellent-treated clothing for summer
- • Include a warm hat and lightweight gloves for alpine mornings
- • Use a slim crossbody or packable belt pouch for town valuables
What to Wear for New Hampshire Adventures
Hiking the White Mountains
Alpine hikes demand layered, technical gear - temperatures drop fast with elevation and services are sparse.
Leaf-Peeping Drives & Walks
Foliage season draws crowds to scenic NH roads - timed drives and short walks reward crisp views but need windproof layers.
Lake Days: Swimming & Paddling
New Hampshire lakes offer hot summer swims and calm paddles - insect protection and quick-change layers keep you comfortable.
Skiing & Snowboarding
Alpine resorts have groomed runs and backcountry-access options - prioritize insulation, traction, and resort arrival timing for lift lines.
Main Streets, Markets & Breweries
New Hampshire towns favor practical, casual layers - dress for walking and variable weather when exploring markets, shops, and craft breweries.
Camping & Backcountry Hut Stays
Remote campsites and Appalachian-style huts require self-reliance - pack for weather swings, bear-safe food storage, and limited services.
Part 3: Expert Tips
What Not to Pack for New Hampshire
Save luggage space and avoid common overpacking mistakes by leaving these items behind.
- • Stiletto heels or fragile dress heels: Uneven cobblestone Main Streets and rocky trailheads make stilettos unsafe and impractical. Swap them for waterproof leather boots or compact rubber-soled flats that transition town-to-trail and provide traction.
- • One single heavy coat for the whole trip: Relying on one bulky parka ignores New Hampshire's layering needs: alpine lows can hit -20°C while valleys stay milder. Pack merino base layers, an insulating mid-layer, and a waterproof shell instead.
- • Only lightweight sneakers for long hikes: Light sneakers lack ankle support and stiff soles needed for White Mountains' steep, rocky trails. Choose sturdy hiking boots or grippy trail runners and consider microspikes for winter conditions.
- • Navigation electronics without paper backup: Cell signal is limited on many mountain routes, so GPS-only plans can fail. Bring a paper map, compass, offline maps, and an emergency whistle or PLB as reliable navigation and safety backups.
- • Excessive beachwear for a mountain- or fall-focused trip: If your itinerary centers on foliage drives or alpine hikes, bulky bikinis and multiple beach cover-ups waste space. Bring one quick-dry swimsuit for lakes and prioritize layers for 5–20°C fall weather.
- • Flip-flops and thin-soled sandals for hiking: Thin sandals offer no protection from rocks, mud, ticks, or cold water crossings. Instead, pack water shoes for lakes and waterproof trail runners or hiking boots for mixed New Hampshire terrain.
- • Loud, high-fashion-only jewelry and heavy perfume: Flashy jewelry can snag on branches and noisy bangles annoy roommates in huts; strong fragrances may attract insects. Opt for minimal, quiet pieces and bring scent-free toiletries and insect repellent.
- • Full-size hair dryers and extra bulky electronics: Mountain huts and remote rentals may lack spare outlets; heavy devices add weight. Pack travel-size styling tools or plan to use lodging amenities and bring a compact power bank and USB car charger.
- • Oversized, non-breathable fashion puffers for active days: Huge fashion puffers trap sweat on hikes and offer poor layering mobility. Choose a packable down or synthetic jacket paired with a breathable waterproof shell for alpine -10 to -20°C conditions.
New Hampshire Insider Packing Tips
Local wisdom and practical advice gathered from seasoned travelers and residents.
- • Layer for valleys and peaks: Pack modular layers: three base layers, two mid-layers and a waterproof shell. Valley temps can be 15–25°C while peaks drop sharply—bring an insulating layer for sudden 0–5°C alpine chills.
- • Traction for icy trails: Bring microspikes or mini-crampons for White Mountain hikes—winter and early spring trails can hit -10 to -20°C above treeline and hide ice on steep, rocky sections. Why: prevent slips and extended rescues.
- • Waterproof everything: A waterproof, breathable shell and pack rain cover are musts—spring and fall storms are sudden. Why: small towns may lack gear shops and wet gear ruins multi-day treks and hut reservations if you can't dry it.
- • Tick and insect defense: Treat clothing with permethrin and pack DEET insect repellent for summer lake and forest days—ticks are active in warm 20–30°C months. Why: prevent Lyme risk and avoid ruined hikes or long post-trip checks.
- • Offline navigation & power: Download offline maps and carry a paper topo and compass—cell coverage vanishes in the White Mountains. Pack a 10,000mAh power bank and a car charger for long drives on narrow rural roads.
- • Footwear for trail and town: Bring sturdy ankle-support boots for rocky White Mountain trails plus a pair of waterproof casual shoes for Main Street and brewery stops. Why: avoid blisters and a soggy afternoon in town.
- • Lake kit and water shoes: For summer lake days pack quick-dry swimwear, a light towel, and water shoes for rocky shores. Include a small dry bag for electronics—sudden storms and boat splashes are common on 20–30°C afternoons.
- • Winter driving essentials: If driving in winter pack chains or confirm winter tires—rural roads and backroads develop black ice and snowbanks. Keep shovel, warm blanket, hot drink thermos and extra gloves; cell coverage may be spotty.
- • Pack a compact first-aid kit: Include blister care, bandages, a small tourniquet, ibuprofen, altitude-aware meds if heading high, and a lightweight bivy or emergency blanket. Why: remote huts and trails may lack quick medical access.
- • Smart quantities for layering: Adopt the 3-2-1 layering rule: three base layers, two mid-layers, one shell. Carry merino or synthetic fabrics to manage humidity and quick-dry—this minimizes weight for short trips and long road itineraries.
- • Bear-aware food storage: Use bear-proof canisters or hang food at backcountry sites and secure coolers at campgrounds—black bears frequent rural areas. Why: prevent dangerous encounters and campground closures; follow local rules.
- • Dress for town and trail: Blend practical and casual: merino base, fleece mid, tailored shell, and denim or leather shoes for Main Street. Why: you'll move from trailheads to breweries and historic sites with limited time to swap outfits.
New Hampshire Traveler FAQs
Common questions from fellow travelers, answered with local insight and practical experience.
How should I layer for sudden elevation changes?
What footwear works for White Mountain trails and town?
Do I need traction devices for winter hikes in New Hampshire?
How do I avoid ticks and mosquitoes during summer hikes?
How much road time and driving prep should I expect in rural New Hampshire?
What should I pack for lake days and paddling in summer?
Packing mistakes and fixes for New Hampshire
Learn from others' experiences to avoid these common packing pitfalls and travel more comfortably.
Underestimating alpine cold and layering needs
Peaks can be much colder than valleys; White Mountain summits drop rapidly and may hit -10 to -20°C. Fix: pack modular layers—base, fleece/down mid, waterproof shell, hat, gloves and microspikes for traction.
Relying only on phone signal for navigation and emergencies
Cell coverage fades fast in mountain and lake regions; relying only on phones risks being stranded. Fix: download offline maps, carry a paper map and compass, pack headlamp, whistle, and consider a PLB or emergency beacon.
Packing only lightweight sneakers for rocky White Mountain hikes
Light sneakers lack ankle support and soles for steep, rocky White Mountain trails and gravel rural roads. Fix: bring sturdy hiking boots or durable trail runners with lugged soles, gaiters if muddy, plus blister care and broken-in footwear.
Skipping insect protection during humid summer and spring
Ticks and mosquitoes thrive along lakeshores and trails in humid 20–30°C summers and spring. Fix: pack EPA‑approved repellent, permethrin-treated clothing, long sleeves, tuck pants into socks, and perform tick checks after hikes.
Overpacking formalwear instead of practical town and trail outfits
New Hampshire towns favor casual, outdoorsy dress; overpacking formalwear wastes space and leaves you shoe‑mismatched for uneven Main Streets. Fix: bring one smart-casual outfit, versatile leather shoes, functional layers and ditch stilettos.
Ready for Your Adventure
You're ready for New Hampshire. From hot 20–30°C lake days to -20°C White Mountain winters, plan modular layers that move from trail to Main Street, bring microspikes or traction devices for icy hikes, and carry offline maps and a basic emergency kit for limited coverage. Embrace the casual New England outdoor style—merino and waterproof shells—and trust your prep: go explore with confidence.
