The 10 Key Items to Pack for Portland, Oregon

Though the city is known for its overcast skies and year-round showers, you actually won’t see many umbrellas on the misty sidewalks of downtown Portland. Instead, locals stay dry in hooded outerwear, like this snap-button raincoat from Herschel Supply Co. If you already have a waterproof jacket without a hood, add one to your outfit with this portable option from The Grommet, and save the travel umbrella for another trip.   

Layering with fleece is a Portlander’s surefire way to stay warm indoors and out. Each one of Everlane’s ReNew fleece sweatshirts is made from 35 recycled plastic bottles, and the feel is much softer than the material suggests. You’ll stay comfy while going easy on the environment—another way to feel like a true Oregonian.   

Mixing activewear with more formal items is always on-trend in Portland. These Lululemon leggings, made with reflective but breathable fabric, are perfect for trekking the Wildwood Trail, then transitioning to dinner afterward at a local hot spot. Built-in storage offers hidden ways to quickly access your keys, cards, and smartphone on the trails and in town.  

Portland is a great place to break out funky footwear. Jeffrey Campbell’s water-resistant, chunky-heeled boots come in a sleek Chelsea cut and a variety of unexpected (and super-shiny) colors. With these pull-ons, you'll help “Keep Portland Weird”—and keep your feet dry.

The city’s beloved sporting goods company is the name-brand label donned by locals in day-to-day life, as well as when hiking, camping, and skiing. Their lightweight, packable day pack is ideal for downtown sightseeing and exploring Oregon’s wilderness.  

Though full-on thunderstorms are few and far between, Oregon’s near-constant drizzle of rain can even leave locals a little chilled. If you buy one special accessory for your trip to Portland, make it a pair of quality socks, like this light-but-warm merino wool pick. It’s the simplest way to stay comfortable on your trip!

If your trip itinerary includes a hike up Multnomah Falls’ 13 switchbacks or an afternoon in Forest Park’s 5,000-plus acres, be sure to pack proper footwear. Made with breathable waterproof fabric and cushioned footbeds, Under Armour’s hiking boots look and act tough, but feel like walking on clouds.

Gray skies can mean limited visibility for drivers. The Stockholm-based Bookman Urban Visibility makes wearable lights and reflectors to help keep pedestrians and cyclists (i.e. you) safe. 

Reusable bottles are always appreciated in this Earth-loving city. S’well offers many BPA-free and condensation-proof options that work for both sampling cold brew and staying hydrated on the hiking trails.

Teruo Kurosaki’s guide book with a local cult following features full-color photos and comprehensive lists for everything you may want to see on your Portland vacation. The latest food carts, restaurants, independent labels and bookstores, LGBTQ-owned businesses, urban breweries and wineries, and the best local coffee roasters are all covered, as well as mini-itineraries for trips just outside the city, including the Oregon Coast. It’s the best book to help you hit all of Portland’s must-see destinations.