Packing List Germany for Fall: What to Bring & Wear in Autumn

“What’s the weather like in Germany in November? Can I still wear dresses in September?”

“Do I need a jacket already in October?”

And the classic: “Wait… what do I pack for Oktoberfest?!”

We get these questions from our international friends all the time—especially those planning their first trip to Germany in the fall. 

And honestly? We totally get it. Autumn in Germany is glorious, but also a bit unpredictable. As two German natives who actually live here, we know exactly what the weather feels like — and what clothes work in real life (not just on Pinterest).

So to save you the stress (and suitcase regrets), we created this no-fluff, local-expert guide to packing for Germany in the fall.

✅ We’ll cover:

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Germany in the Fall: What’s the Weather Like?

Let’s be honest: fall in Germany is one of the most beautiful seasons to visit. But also? It’s unpredictable as heck.

As two German natives who grew up with this weather, we can say: pack for everything. September might start out sunny and warm, but by November, we’re deep into fleece-lining, scarf-wrapping, and moaning about “how early it gets dark.”

Here’s what to expect, month by month:

September – Mild & Festive

👀 Pro tip: This is the month people under-pack for the most. It looks sunny, but German sun can be sneaky cold. Don’t forget a layer!

October – Colorful & Crisp

💡Good to know: By mid-October, mornings can feel straight-up cold. Don’t skip the scarf!

November – Cold, Moody & Quiet

🎒 Local tip: November is low season, so it’s a great time to visit if you’re ok with cold and want fewer crowds — just pack warm and be ready for drizzle.

So what’s the bottom line?

Clothes to Pack for Fall in Germany

This is where most first-time visitors either pack way too much (hi, 4 coats) or totally miss the mark (hello, sandals and summer dresses in October 😬). Fall in Germany is about layers, practicality, and keeping your feet dry and warm.

Here’s what we recommend as two locals who live through this transition every year.

Layers Are Your Best Friend

Germany in fall = the art of layering. You’ll start the day in 8°C fog and end it sipping wine in 17°C sun.

What we always pack:

✅ Tip: If you’re visiting in November, swap the windbreaker for a proper coat with a warm lining.

Bottoms That Work for Fall Weather

We rarely wear shorts past early September — fall is jeans and tights season.

Pack:

🎒Want to blend in? Germans love darker tones in fall — think navy, burgundy, forest green, charcoal.

Shoes That Can Handle Cobblestones and Rain

Footwear is one of the most important packing decisions — seriously.

Cobblestones, puddles, and miles of walking will destroy your feet if you bring the wrong pair. And in general, German cities like Frankfurt, Munich, and Berlin are super walkable — you’ll likely spend most of your day on foot, even when public transport is available.

What to bring:

💡 What we skip: white sneakers (get dirty fast), heels (hello twisted ankle), and open shoes.

Essential Accessories for German Fall Days

You’ll see most locals wearing scarves by mid-September — not just for fashion, but function.

Don’t forget:

🎒 Local tip: Public transport is warm — you’ll want to shed layers easily when hopping on a train or bus.

What to Pack for Oktoberfest

If you’re visiting Germany in late September, chances are you’re heading to Oktoberfest in Munich — and yes, it needs its own little packing checklist.

Here’s the quick version of what to bring:

💡 Extra tip: Bring cash. Some vendors still don’t take cards.

Read now

🚀 Want the full details?

Check out our full post:
👉 How to plan a trip to Oktoberfest?

Read now →

Toiletries and Essentials to Bring

You can find most basics in Germany, but if you want to avoid hunting down a pharmacy or drug store on day one (been there 🙃), it’s smart to pack your go-to items.

Here’s what we always pack — and recommend for fall travel:

Must-Have Toiletries

💡 Local tip: You’ll find “DM” and “Rossmann” drugstores everywhere in Germany. Drug store items are very cheap in Germany and good quality.

Practical Travel Essentials

🎒 Travel tip: We always bring a small zippered pouch for organizing these items in our daypacks — saves time and digging.

Tech, Documents and Practical Items

Even if you’re packing light, there are a few non-negotiables that you’ll absolutely need for a smooth trip to Germany. This is the stuff you’ll kick yourself for forgetting (we’ve both done it, more than once).

Travel Documents

Tech Essentials

⚡ Don’t forget: Plug sockets in Germany might be different from what you’re used to. Make sure to pack a travel power adapter so you can charge your devices without trouble 👉 Read More About German Plug Sockets

Daypack or Small Bag for Sightseeing

You’ll be out and about for hours in Germany — exploring castles, walking through parks, hopping between U-Bahn stops, or just getting lost in a Christmas market preview (yes, even in November). So a smart, comfortable day bag is key.

What Kind of Bag to Bring

We usually skip big totes or floppy shoulder bags — they slide off, get heavy fast, and aren’t great for long days.

What We Keep Inside Our Bag

🎒 Local tip: Some museums don’t allow big backpacks inside — always check at the entrance. Crossbody bags* are often easier for city days.

Final Fall Packing Checklist for Germany

Here’s our master list — the result of years of traveling, countless packing mistakes we made, and all the little things our international friends always thank us for.

✅ Copy it, print it, screenshot it — and pack with zero stress.

Clothes

Shoes

Toiletries & Personal Care

Tech & Travel Essentials

Daypack Items

Oktoberfest-Specific (if you’re going)

Final Thoughts: What You Really Need for Germany in Fall

If there’s one thing we’ve learned — as German natives and serial over-packers turned minimalists — it’s this:

Fall in Germany is all about smart layers, comfy shoes, and expecting the unexpected.

Whether you’re dancing on benches at Oktoberfest in late September, wandering through golden vineyards in October, or sipping mulled wine before the Christmas lights go up in November… you’ll enjoy it so much more if you’re dressed for it.

So don’t stress the small stuff. If you forget something, you’ll find it here — but with this list, you’re more than ready to blend in with the locals, stay warm, and have an unforgettable trip.

📌 Your Next Steps:

👉 Heading to Oktoberfest? Be sure to read our complete guide: How to plan a trip to Oktoberfest

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