December Packing List for Memphis — What to Wear & Bring

Essentials

If you only pack a few things, pack these.

• Mid-weight wool coatEssential

  Memphis's Mississippi Riverfront can get chilly when lows hit 35°F, making a wool coat essential for evening walks.

• Thermal base layersEssential

  These are vital for early morning excursions in Memphis when temperatures drop to 35°F.

• Sturdy leather bootsEssential

  Ideal for navigating Beale Street's pavement during those 10 days of potential rain.

• Insulated ankle bootsEssential

  Protect against the wind off the Mississippi River when it hits 35°F.

• Water-resistant shoesEssential

  Necessary to handle the ~10 days of precipitation expected throughout Memphis this December.

• Knit scarfEssential

  The riverfront breeze can be biting when temperatures drop to 35°F.

• Compact umbrellaEssential

  To stay dry during the ~10 days of precipitation expected throughout Memphis this December.

Clothing

• Mid-weight wool coatEssential

  Memphis's Mississippi Riverfront can get chilly when lows hit 35°F, making a wool coat essential for evening walks.

• Flannel or denim shirtsRecommended

  Layering with flannel is perfect for the 52°F highs in Memphis while capturing that local blues aesthetic.

• Thermal base layersEssential

  These are vital for early morning excursions in Memphis when temperatures drop to 35°F.

• Corduroy trousersRecommended

  These are great for exploring the Cooper-Young neighborhood in the mild 52°F weather.

Footwear

• Sturdy leather bootsEssential

  Ideal for navigating Beale Street's pavement during those 10 days of potential rain.

• Walking sneakersRecommended

  Essential for touring Sun Studio when temperatures reach a pleasant 52°F.

• Insulated ankle bootsEssential

  Protect against the wind off the Mississippi River when it hits 35°F.

• Water-resistant shoesEssential

  Necessary to handle the ~10 days of precipitation expected throughout Memphis this December.

Accessories

• Knit scarfEssential

  The riverfront breeze can be biting when temperatures drop to 35°F.

• BeanieRecommended

  Keeps you warm during outdoor music on Beale Street when it hits 35°F at night.

• Leather glovesRecommended

  Essential for keeping hands warm while walking through downtown Memphis in the 35°F morning air.

• SunglassesOptional

  Perfect for bright, sunny afternoons when Memphis highs reach 52°F.

Gear

• Compact umbrellaEssential

  To stay dry during the ~10 days of precipitation expected throughout Memphis this December.

• Portable power bankOptional

  Keep your phone charged while navigating Memphis's historic districts in the 52°F weather.

• Hand warmersRecommended

  Perfect for staying comfortable during outdoor music events in Memphis when temperatures dip to 35°F.

• Reusable water bottleRecommended

  Stay hydrated while walking between landmarks like Sun Studio during the 52°F days.