What to Pack and Wear in Napa Valley

So you've planned the ultimate Napa Valley vacation, now you need to figure out what to pack and how to prep for days filled with world-class wines, vineyard-view hikes, and farm-fresh cuisine. Here are a few travel tips and some ideas for what you should have in your suitcase, no matter the season.

Napa Valley Fashion and Packing Tips

Layer, layer, layer: Since the temperature varies throughout the day (even in the summer), layering is your best bet for staying comfortable.

Spring / Summer: You'll be comfortable in a sundress with a cardigan and sandals. Don’t forget your sunglasses, sunhat, and sunblock.

Fall / Winter: You'll need an extra layer, like a scarf, sweater, and boots. Don't forget to pack an umbrella or raincoat, just in case it rains.

Don’t wear perfumes or heavy lotions when wine tasting as it can muddle your sense of smell and affect your ability to fully enjoy the flavors of the wine. (It can also detract from the tasting experience of those around you.)

Wine Country Casual

Can I wear jeans to a winery? Yes! Jeans are acceptable year-round – we call it wine country casual. A more upscale winery might call for darker denim, and be sure to dress in layers as many winery experiences take place outdoors and tours often take guests through wine caves and chilled cellar areas.

What is wine country casual attire? Wine country casual is a stylish blend of sophistication and laid-back elegance, no matter the occasion or the season. Whether you're heading out for wine tasting, a concert, dinner, or a hike through the hills, wine country casual is effortlessly chic.

Sundresses, blouses and skirts, nice jeans, wedges, sandals
Golf shirts, khaki pants, nice jeans, dressy shorts, stylish sneakers, boat shoes

Packing Essentials

Everyone has their own style, but there are a few things you won’t want to leave home without.

Jacket: Temperatures vary from day to evening – even in the summer. This diurnal shift is part of the magic that yields incredible grape harvests in Napa Valley, so layers are key. Have a lightweight outer layer ready – something easy to throw on during the crisp mornings and the cool nights.

Sunglasses: No one likes squinting into the sun while admiring vineyard views. Be sure to have your favorite pair (or two) of shades.

Flat shoes: Opt for chic sneakers, flats, platforms, or wedges for ease of travel across uneven winery pathways.

Tote: Bring a reusable bag, stylish purse, or chic satchel to carry all your extras – plus any picnic provisions, bottles of wine, or new finds from a shopping excursion.

Water bottle: Stay hydrated throughout your wine tasting adventures with a reusable water bottle. Fill up your bottle at the hotel and keep it with you on your drive or bike ride to the wineries.

INSIDER TIP: If you forget any essentials, not to worry! There are plenty of shopping destinations to pick up a few items. Check out Napa Premium Outlets, First Street Napa clothing boutiques, and local boutiques dotting Downtown St. Helena and Calistoga.

Napa Valley Weather

The Mediterranean climate of the Napa Valley not only allows for optimal grape growing conditions, it also provides near-perfect weather year-round. The southern part of the valley is much cooler than the northern part and temperatures can vary widely from day to night.