WHAT TO WEAR IN SAN DIEGO IN DECEMBER

THE ULTIMATE PACKING LIST FOR A WINTER IN SAN DIEGO

Depending on what you like, Winter in San Diego might be your favorite time of the year… or it could be your least favorite. However, if you are reading this, then you are most likely either living in San Diego because you wanted to get away from those freezing winters or you will be visiting San Diego this Christmas in order TO get away from the cold winter. 

Thankfully, San Diegans don’t dress up too much considering they live in flip flops and beachwear most of the time. Usually, their main goal is to feel comfortable while still looking cute. 

So, you may be asking yourself, hmmm but what should I wear in San Diego in December time? This article will discuss the key items to bring for your winter trip to San Diego.

WHAT IS THE WEATHER LIKE IN SAN DIEGO?

Winter in San Diego is one of the best times of the year. You get a mix of some warm days along with some cool days. It is less crowded in the winter. You can be fashionable and enjoy the Christmas spirit around you.

As previously stated, the weather varies from warm days to cold nights in San Diego. So, you do need to be prepared to pack for both. Just as in most other places, layers will become your friend for cold winter nights in San Diego.

It’s ok to be a little s-elfish and pack some extra clothes for your trip to San Diego. Alright, now hold on for deer life as we go over my winter travel items for exploring San Diego. Ok enough jokes!  

CLOTHING ITEMS YOU SHOULD PACK AND WEAR 

#1. T-SHIRTS AND TOPS

Pack a mix of three to five short-sleevedand long-sleeved shirts. Try to coordinate your items, so that you can mix and match your tops with different bottoms and jackets. Check out some of the items below for ideas.

#2. JACKETS

It is definitely necessary to bring a good jacket when traveling to San Diego in December. The weather can change quickly during the winter. Pack a lightweight or cardigan for the warmer days, a rain jacket, and then a warm fuzzy jacket. 
Cardigan/Light Jacket: This is a cute lightweight jacket that comes in multiple colors. It is perfect because it is a little longer than normal, so it will keep you warmer on those colder winter nights in San Diego.

Rain jacket: A rain jacket is good for wherever you go, San Diego included. The weather could always turn no matter where you are. I recommend packing a bright colored rain jacket as it will stand out in photos.

Warm puffy jacket: This jacket is great for throwing on during those cold nights. Pictured below you will see me in a red puffy jacket. It helps block the wind and keeps me warm.

LAYERS WILL BE KEY!

Just like any other place you travel too, layers are super important. It will help you keep warm during those cold weather days and layers are super easy to shed when needed. 

#4. PANTS

I personally recommend you bring one pair of pants that are versatile a pair of jeans and then one pair of “cute” pants.

Jeans: These American Eagle jeans are the perfect fit for anyone. Dark jeans are so versatile and can again be dressed up for a fancy night out or can be made casual. 
Cute pants: The Trouser pants are super “in” right now and are considered to be your cute pants. This trouser pant comes in multiple colors, so pick your favorite!

#5. DRESS IT UP

Packing a dress is absolutely necessary. It is so versatile, it can be dressed up or dressed down. A dress works no matter what the weather is.

#6. UNDERGARMENTS

You never want to forget these items! Make sure to pack enough clean undies for the trip! If you are looking for more athletic underwear that doesn’t give you a cameltoe then check out Jivathletics.

#7. ACCESSORIES

Accessories are one of the best ways to “dress up” and outfit without trying too hard. It is the key to fashion! Most of the time you can get away with fewer clothing items and more accessory items. 

Scarf: A scarf is a perfect item to keep you warm if needed and to make an outfit stand out!
Beanie: Don’t let those ears get cold! For those ladies with long hair, check out this beanie that allows you to put your ponytail through it.

Hat: This is the perfect item to dress an outfit up or make it look extra cute! Wear it on the plane so that it saves room in your bag and doesn’t get smushed!

Crossbody purse: This is perfect for traveling. You don’t want to be carrying around a huge clunky purse. Find a cute crossbody bag like this one and only carry your essential items when going out at night.

#8. WALKING SHOES 

Walking shoes will be key when visiting San Diego. This city is very outdoor centric and you will find yourself walking to multiple places. I recommend wearing these Adidas sneakers. They are super comfortable and can go with all outfits!

#9. CUTE SHOES

Boots are always a winter staple shoe. Even in San Diego. Get some ankle boots (with a lower heel) that are comfortable like these ones! Just like walking shoes, they will go with anything!

BONUS WINTER ITEMS!

Check out these items if you are looking for something a little more creative and fun!

#10. CHRISTMAS SWEATER

If you plan to visit San Diego in the winter then I highly recommend that you pack one of those Ho-ho-ho Christmas sweaters or some fun cat Christmas sweater. You never know when you will be invited to a Christmas party!

#11. CHRISTMAS PAJAMAS

You should particularly pack matching Christmas/holiday-themed pajamas if you will be traveling to San Diego during the month of December. Do I dare you to even wear them on the plane? 😉

Regardless of whether you are a San Diego resident, traveling for the month of December or have San Diego travel plans, this holiday season-you should get some sort of festive gear. People always get a good laugh out of it! You won’t regret the decision!

Check out some fun San Diego Christmas activities including events in downtown San Diego!

EXTRAS/ESSENTIALS FOR ANY TRAVELER 

#12. Earplane Earplugs: These items are great! If you struggle with equalizing your ears during air travel you will want to purchase these items. They are cheap and they are key to helping decrease any ear pain.

#13.Portable charger: One of the travel tips I share with everyone is to bring a portable charger with you. It is small to pack, you can charge on the go, and it is easily rechargeable. 

#14. Sunscreen: Sunscreen is a year-round item as well. It may be cold out in San Diego during the winter months, but usually, the sun is still shining. Reapply the sunscreen on your face twice a day, especially if you are outside.

#17. PACKING CUBES: If you have never tried packing cubes before, you should! Despite what you may think, packing cubes actually save space in your suitcase. These are a great first set of packing cubes.  Looking for some fun things to do in San Diego? I recommend hiking Torrey Pines State Park!

FINAL THOUGHTS ON HOW TO PACK FOR SAN DIEGO IN DECEMBER

I hope this will help for your next trip to San Diego! Another travel tip I love to share with others is, attempt to fit everything into a carry-on. It will make your trip much smoother. There is less to carry and less chance of your luggage getting lost. No one likes that! 

Alright, enjoy looking cute, while still partaking in the “chill beach attire” Pack light, bring an item with a pop of color and enjoy your visit! Comment below if you have a favorite travel tip or winter weather wear item!

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