The most important body part for sightseeing is your feet. If your feet are unhappy then you will be as well, and pounding the Big Apple pavement all day can take its toll. To avoid blisters and sore feet, pack well-cushioned walking shoes that are already worn in, and breathable, moisture-wicking socks. Though New York City is full of stylish footwear, save your high heels for dinner and a Broadway show, when you will not be walking for hours.
New York City's weather is seasonal, and can be unpredictable. When sightseeing, you will almost always be dressing in layers for flexibility as you walk from place to place, inside and outside.
In the winter, conditions range from slushy to freezing, with temperatures from the low 20s to high 30s. Wear warm layers: wrap up well for outside, but be prepared to shed your coat as interiors tend to be amply heated and you will get warm with all of the walking. Pack long pants, tights and thick socks, long-sleeved shirts and cozy sweaters, and a winter jacket or coat. Top with with accessories like wool hats, warm scarves and gloves or mittens.
Summers are hot and sticky, from the mid 60s to upwards of 90 degrees. Dress in light layers: t-shirts, tank tops or sundresses, shorts or light pants so you are cool and comfortable in the humid heat, and thin sweaters or long-sleeved shirts for AC'ed interiors. Bring a light rain jacket for pop-up thundershowers or unexpected cool mornings. Finally, bring a hat and a pair of sunglasses to shade your eyes and face from the hot sun.
The spring and fall bring cool weather: crisp mornings and evenings and comfortable afternoons, with occasional rain and temperatures ranging from the low 40s to high 60s. If you will be visiting during either season, bring a medium-weight jacket, jeans or long pants, light scarves, thin gloves and a hat. Layer t-shirts under sweaters and long-sleeved shirts.
Just remember: when packing, put comfort and common sense first. In all seasons, pack outfits made of breathable material and that are comfortable for all-day wear, instead of something trendy that is overly complicated and uncomfortable.
You certainly do not want to be lugging around five different bags containing cameras, tourist books, umbrellas and items your purchased throughout the day. Instead, bring a large backpack or all-purpose bag that can be securely closed and that you can strap over one or both shoulders. This will leave your hands free to eat a slice of thin-crust pizza, navigate through the subway or snap a quick picture of Times Square.
