Packing For a Fall Trip to Austria
Thanks to its gorgeous fall colors, Austria is one of the best destinations to visit during the season. It’s also off-peak, so you’ll enjoy discounts on accomodation. And since the Austrian Mountains are covered in snow, you can ski and snowboard too. If you’re wondering what to pack for your fall trip to Austria, we’ve got you covered. Read on to discover what to expect in terms of weather and activities, and what’s best to pack.
Fall Climate in Austria
Fall in Austria begins in September and lasts until November. During the season, temperatures average between 50–59°F. Depending on the region, you may experience light rain as well. The weather is usually pleasant, making it an ideal time to explore the outdoors and countryside. Austria is famous for its mountains, but there’s river valleys and wine regions to explore as well. Fans of winter sports can head up to the Alps, where the peaks are covered in snow by November. If you plan on leaf-peeping, fall colors tend to peak from late October to early November.
Fall Activities in Austria
Hiking is a great activity to enjoy in Austria during the fall. The weather is mild and the scenery is breathtaking. The season is also a popular time to visit local wineries and enjoy wine tasting. In the cities and towns, there’s lots of culture and history to soak up. You can visit the Beethoven Museum in Vienna or visit Mozart’s birthplace in Salzburg. During the October months, you can witness Austria’s famous cattle drives in the Alpine region. The fall season also plays host to numerous harvest festivals. And every year on October 26, the country celebrates its National Day.
What to Pack for Your Fall Trip to Austria
The items you need for your fall trip to Austria will depend on which region you’re visiting, how long you’re staying, and what activities you plan on doing. Still, there are a few essentials that won’t let you down. We’ve compiled them into a list below to help you figure out what to pack. Customize it as you see fit to ensure you have everything you need for your upcoming vacation.
Tick Protection
Depending on the region of Austria you’re visiting, you may need to consider tick protection. The Austrian forests, for example, are a high-risk area. Ticks are most active in summer but survive until the snow falls, so it's possible you may encounter some. Be sure to check with your accommodation beforehand to assess any potential risk. Hikers should pack suitable repellent just in case. Be sure to also wear long workout clothes while hiking. Lighter colors will help make any ticks easier to spot.
Activewear
If you’re planning on doing any hiking in Austria, you’ll need a set of workout clothes. Since the weather is cooler, you may want to go for yoga pants or leggings instead of shorts. It’s a good idea to take a long-sleeve shirt or fleece vest with you, too. If you have access to laundry on your trip, your workout set can double as a comfy plane outfit.
Clothing
Austrians tend to dress more formally, especially in the cities. If you want to fit in, it’s best to leave your t-shirts, leggings, and baseball caps for sportier activities. Both slacks and dark wash jeans are versatile and stylish options. Many women also wear dresses and skirts. Pack a few matching shirts and a couple of sweaters for layering options. You’ll also want a lightweight jacket. A denim jacket is a good choice, but you can also go for a waterproof parka in case of rain.
Shoes
When it comes to footwear, go for versatile options to save on packing space. We suggest a semi-formal pair to match your fancier outfits. Austria has many cobbled streets, so heels might not be the best bet. Brogues are a classic alternative, since they’re both smart and comfy. Sneakers are another great pair of shoes to have in your luggage. You can wear them on the plane, but also for walking and hiking. You may also want to pack a pair of sandals or slides in case you visit a thermal spa or pool. These are also handy to have for walking around your accommodation.
Scarves
Shawls and wraps are some of the most useful travel accessories for fall. Not only are they a stylish way to keep warm when the temperature dips, they also double up as blankets for the plane. And since they’re so lightweight, they won’t take up too much of your packing space. They also offer versatility when it comes to style. There are so many ways to wrap a scarf around your neck; you can even rock one as a shawl.
We hope this list helps you with packing for your Austria trip. Customize it however you see fit to be sure you include everything necessary. Once you have an itinerary planned out, it’ll be easier to know what to take. It’s also a good idea to check the weather forecast before you go. That way, you’ll be sure you have something to keep you warm and dry. No matter the conditions, you’re sure to have a wonderful fall experience.