What to pack for a summer trip to Austria
Short answer: Austria in summer offers 20 to 30 degrees in the valleys, cool mountains and afternoon showers. Pack light T-shirts, a warm jumper, a rain jacket, good shoes and comfortable underwear for long days by the lakes and in the mountains.
Summer weather in Austria
In Vienna, Salzburg and Innsbruck the summer temperature is often between 22 and 30 degrees. It is cooler in the mountains, where the temperature drops by about 0.6 degrees for every 100 metres of altitude. Thunderstorms often build in the afternoon, especially in the Alps. A light rain jacket and a warm jumper are therefore worth bringing even on warm days. The lakes in the Salzkammergut and Carinthia often reach swimming temperatures of 20 to 25 degrees.
The cities of Vienna and Salzburg
In the cities you can wear ordinary summer clothing, though many people dress a little smarter than in northern Europe, especially for concerts and coffee houses. For the opera and classical concerts smart clothing is appropriate, while jeans and a nice shirt are fine for an ordinary evening out. In churches you are expected to cover your shoulders. Good shoes are important, because the old towns are cobbled and you will walk a lot.
Underwear for long days
On long days on foot or cycling along the Danube you quickly notice if your underwear rubs. Choose underwear with flat seams and a soft fabric that wicks moisture in the heat. See bamboo underpants for men. A few extra pairs are welcome so you always have a dry set ready. Also take a look at bamboo underwear for men for a wider range of styles.
Hiking in the mountains
Many visitors combine cities and mountains, for example with hikes in Tyrol or around the Grossglockner. For that you need hiking boots, hiking socks, a T-shirt that wicks sweat, a fleece and a waterproof jacket. Set off early so you are back down before the afternoon showers. Check the forecast with a local weather service. If you have knee or heart problems, talk to your doctor before longer hikes.
Sleeping on warm nights
Many hotels and guesthouses in Austria have no air conditioning, and city nights can be warm in July and August. In the mountains the nights are cool. Light nightwear that you can combine with a duvet or a jumper suits both. A soft T-shirt is enough for many people. See night T-shirt for men. Open the window at night if you can, and close the shutters during the day.
Packing list for one week
For a week in Austria you can manage with five T-shirts, a shirt, a jumper, a fleece, a rain jacket, a pair of long trousers, a pair of shorts, swimwear, hiking boots, walking shoes, a smarter pair of shoes, five to seven pairs of socks, underwear for every day and nightwear. Add a sun hat, sun cream and a water bottle. Do a little washing along the way if you want to travel light.
Frequently asked questions
How warm is Austria in summer
In the valleys and cities usually 22 to 30 degrees. It is cooler in the mountains.
Should you dress smartly for concerts in Vienna
For the opera and classical concerts smart clothing is appropriate. For an ordinary evening, jeans and a shirt are fine.
When do thunderstorms arrive in the Alps
Often in the afternoon. Start hikes early so you are back down in time.
You can find the full range at Bamboo-Clothing.com.
