What to Pack for a Pacific Northwest Adventure (Oregon and Washington)
What to Pack for a Pacific Northwest Adventure: A Year-Round Guide to Exploring Oregon & Washington (and Eating Really Good Food)
The Pacific Northwest (PNW)—home to epic mountain ranges, misty forests, glittering coastlines, and some of the best food on the planet (yes, we’re talking to you, Portland and Seattle). Whether you’re hiking through the Columbia River Gorge, tasting craft beer in Portland, or feasting on fresh seafood in Seattle, there’s something magical about this region. But how do you pack for it all?
You’re not just navigating rainforests and alpine lakes—you’re also stopping in bustling cities for food, culture, and maybe a little bit of hipster flair. But don’t worry, I’ve got you covered. Here’s what to pack for every season, where to fly into, and why each season deserves your attention. And hey, I’ve thrown in some fun facts because who doesn’t like learning while packing?
Where to Fly Into: Portland, OR vs. Seattle, WA
Portland (PDX) and Seattle (SEA) are the two main gateways to the PNW. If you’re flying into Oregon, Portland International Airport (PDX) is your best bet. It’s about 30 minutes to downtown, and from there, you can easily access a ton of hikes, craft breweries, and the Portland food scene. Plus, it’s only a short drive to the Columbia River Gorge, Mount Hood, and even to the Oregon coast.
Flying into Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) will give you quick access to Mount Rainier, the San Juan Islands, and the beautiful Olympic Peninsula. Seattle is also a vibrant city full of food, culture, and iconic spots like Pike Place Market, and is perfect if you’re more of an urban explorer who enjoys hiking and drinking coffee in between.
What to Pack for Every Season in the PNW: A Year-Round Breakdown
Spring (March-May): Rain, Blooms, and Brunch
Packing Essentials:
- Waterproof jacket (because, yes, it’s going to rain at least once every day)
- Layered clothing: Pack light sweaters, long sleeves, and a jacket. You’ll be wearing them all at once sometimes.
- Hiking boots: Muddy trails are a thing. Be prepared. And waterproof boots are key.
- Sunglasses: You’ll catch the occasional sunny break (don’t let it fool you).
- Small backpack for day hikes and city explorations.
Why Visit in Spring: Spring in the PNW is a magical time. The mountains are still covered in snow (great for snowshoeing and spring skiing), the flowers are blooming, and the weather is pretty unpredictable (think rain showers followed by sunbreaks). Not to mention, fewer tourists compared to summer, so you can hike Mount Hood without having to share your view with 100 strangers. Plus, the food scene is on fire right now—think fresh asparagus, early strawberries, and pastries that could make you consider changing your life’s ambition to “baker.”
Fun Fact: Did you know the PNW is home to the Cherry Blossom Festival in Seattle? It’s a celebration of the stunning cherry blossoms in the city’s parks, and it’s basically an Instagram dream. If you’re lucky, you’ll catch the trees in full bloom.
Summer (June-August): Sun, Trails, and Seafood
Packing Essentials:
- Lightweight hiking gear: You’ll be sweating, but let’s keep it stylish, yeah? Here is a great list!
- Sunscreen (don’t be fooled by the cloudy days)
- Shorts & T-shirts: You’ll have plenty of sunny days, but mornings and evenings can be chilly, so bring a layer for those.
- Reliable day pack: If you’re hiking, you’re going to want something that can handle some rain (it’s still the PNW, after all).
- Swimsuit: For when you find that perfect alpine lake to cool off in. Yes, there are hidden gems everywhere.
Why Visit in Summer: Ah, summer. The weather is generally clear and dry, and the hiking trails are calling your name. Whether you’re tackling the Pacific Crest Trail, strolling around Portland’s famous food trucks, or getting your face full of fresh oysters in Seattle, this is the season when the PNW shows off. You can kayak in Lake Chelan, bike through Portland’s Rose Garden, or hike around Mount Rainier—summer is when the great outdoors really shines. And of course, there’s the food. You’re in seafood heaven, especially in Seattle, where you’ll find some of the freshest fish and seafood you’ve ever tasted.
Fun Fact: Oregon and Washington are home to some of the best craft breweries in the world. Portland has more breweries per capita than any other city, so you’re basically required to try one (or twenty).
Fall (September-November): Crisp Air, Cozy Vibes, and Wine Tasting
Packing Essentials:
- Fleece jacket or hoodie: The mornings get cooler, but it’s still warm enough during the day for layers.
- Puffy jacket: Depending on where you are visiting, you will definitely want a thicker jacket.
- Waterproof boots: The rains start again, but it’s still hiking season.
- Hat and gloves: Especially if you’re venturing into the mountains.
- Sunglasses: Depending on when you visit, there will be some sunny days sprinkled in.
Why Visit in Fall: Fall in the PNW is a dream for leaf peepers and wine lovers. The foliage in places like Columbia River Gorge and Mount Hood is absolutely stunning. As the temperatures cool, the outdoor activities don’t stop. You can still hike and enjoy the crisp mountain air, or head to Woodinville Wine Country near Seattle or the Willamette Valley near Portland for some of the best wine-tasting experiences in the U.S. Fall is also the season for fresh apples, pumpkin-flavored everything, and tons of harvest festivals. And of course, there are fewer crowds, so you get to enjoy the beauty of the PNW without the summer rush.
Fun Fact: Washington produces more apples than any other state in the U.S., and Oregon’s Willamette Valley is known for being one of the best wine regions for Pinot Noir. So, if you’re into those, you’re in for a treat!
Winter (December-February): Snow, Hot Springs, and Cozy Cafés
Packing Essentials:
- Warm jacket and thermal layers: Trust me, it can get cold in the mountains.
- Snow boots: If you’re heading to the snow-covered mountains, make sure your boots are waterproof and insulated.
- Thermal socks and gloves: Keep those extremities warm.
- Ski gear: If you’re hitting the slopes at Mount Hood or Crystal Mountain, don’t forget your gear (or rent it when you get there).
Why Visit in Winter: Winter is perfect for snow sports—whether it’s skiing, snowboarding, or snowshoeing. If you’re more into the après-ski life, you’ll be enjoying hot cocoa by a roaring fire in a cozy mountain lodge. But if the snow isn’t your thing, there’s still a lot to love about the PNW in winter. Portland and Seattle are great for holiday lights, winter markets, and indulging in all things comfort food (hello, chowder and craft beer). Plus, the hot springs in places like Mount Hood Wilderness make for a perfect winter getaway when you want to relax and warm up after a day of outdoor exploration. This is super dependent on where you go and you could wear similar outfits as the Fall packing essentials.
Fun Fact: Mount Baker in Washington holds the record for the most snow ever recorded in a season—1,140 inches of snow! So, if you’re looking to ski or snowboard in a winter wonderland, this is the place to be.
Helpful Tips for Your PNW Adventure
- Layer, layer, layer: The weather can change in a heartbeat. Be prepared for four seasons in one day—especially in the mountains.
- Plan for rain, even in summer: A waterproof jacket, umbrella, and a waterproof phone case are your best friends.
- Embrace the fog: The PNW is known for its misty mornings, so don’t let it ruin your plans. It’s actually kind of magical.
- Don’t skip the food scene: Whether it’s food trucks in Portland, fresh seafood in Seattle, or wine in Oregon, eating your way through the region is an adventure of its own.
Final Thoughts: The PNW Awaits
No matter when you visit, the Pacific Northwest is a destination that offers year-round adventure and culinary delights. Whether you’re tackling the outdoors or enjoying the city, this region has something for everyone. Pack smart, layer up, and don’t forget to leave room for all the amazing food and drinks you’re about to try.
