December Packing List for Amsterdam — What to Wear & Bring

Essentials

If you only pack a few things, pack these.

• Thermal Base LayersEssential

  With Amsterdam's average December low of 37°F, thermal base layers are essential for staying warm when exploring festive markets near Dam Square.

• Heavy Wool SweatersEssential

  Heavy wool sweaters are crucial for layering against Amsterdam's cold December temperatures (37-45°F), offering significant warmth for outdoor activities.

• Insulated Waterproof ParkaEssential

  Given Amsterdam's 13 average precip days in December, an insulated, waterproof, and windproof parka is paramount for protection from the damp cold along the canals.

• Warm Lined TrousersEssential

  Warm-lined trousers are necessary to combat the damp and cold conditions in Amsterdam during December, especially during long walks on cobblestone streets.

• Waterproof Insulated BootsEssential

  Absolutely essential for navigating Amsterdam's pervasive cobblestone streets and wet conditions (13 precip days) in December's 37-45°F weather.

• Thermal SocksEssential

  Thermal socks are critical for retaining warmth and keeping feet dry during long days of exploring Amsterdam in December's cold and damp climate.

• Insulated Waterproof BootsEssential

  Amsterdam's December light festival (Amsterdam Light Festival) along the canals means hours outdoors in 45°F rain — insulated waterproof boots are essential.

• Winter Hat (wool/fleece)Essential

  A warm hat is vital for protecting against the cold and strong winds, particularly when experiencing Amsterdam's chilling canal breezes in December.

• Waterproof Gloves/MittensEssential

  Keeping hands warm and dry is paramount in Amsterdam's December weather, essential if cycling or visiting outdoor light festivals.

• Thick Winter ScarfEssential

  A thick winter scarf offers crucial protection against the biting winds and dampness prevalent in Amsterdam during December, especially near the Rijksmuseum.

• Compact UmbrellaEssential

  With 13 average precip days in December, a compact umbrella is a non-negotiable item for sudden and frequent rain showers across Amsterdam.

Clothing

• Thermal Base LayersEssential

  With Amsterdam's average December low of 37°F, thermal base layers are essential for staying warm when exploring festive markets near Dam Square.

• Heavy Wool SweatersEssential

  Heavy wool sweaters are crucial for layering against Amsterdam's cold December temperatures (37-45°F), offering significant warmth for outdoor activities.

• Insulated Waterproof ParkaEssential

  Given Amsterdam's 13 average precip days in December, an insulated, waterproof, and windproof parka is paramount for protection from the damp cold along the canals.

• Warm Lined TrousersEssential

  Warm-lined trousers are necessary to combat the damp and cold conditions in Amsterdam during December, especially during long walks on cobblestone streets.

Footwear

• Waterproof Insulated BootsEssential

  Absolutely essential for navigating Amsterdam's pervasive cobblestone streets and wet conditions (13 precip days) in December's 37-45°F weather.

• Thermal SocksEssential

  Thermal socks are critical for retaining warmth and keeping feet dry during long days of exploring Amsterdam in December's cold and damp climate.

• Insulated Waterproof BootsEssential

  Amsterdam's December light festival (Amsterdam Light Festival) along the canals means hours outdoors in 45°F rain — insulated waterproof boots are essential.

Accessories

• Winter Hat (wool/fleece)Essential

  A warm hat is vital for protecting against the cold and strong winds, particularly when experiencing Amsterdam's chilling canal breezes in December.

• Waterproof Gloves/MittensEssential

  Keeping hands warm and dry is paramount in Amsterdam's December weather, essential if cycling or visiting outdoor light festivals.

• Thick Winter ScarfEssential

  A thick winter scarf offers crucial protection against the biting winds and dampness prevalent in Amsterdam during December, especially near the Rijksmuseum.

Gear

• Compact UmbrellaEssential

  With 13 average precip days in December, a compact umbrella is a non-negotiable item for sudden and frequent rain showers across Amsterdam.

• Rain TrousersRecommended

  Amsterdam's December Amsterdam Light Festival brings 13 rain days of outdoor canal-side viewing — rain trousers are essential for staying dry during evening walks along the Keizersgracht.

• Hand WarmersRecommended

  December canal walks in 45°F weather with wind chill make disposable hand warmers a must for the Amsterdam Light Festival's outdoor viewing routes.