August In Austria: Packing List For Comfortable Exploring

If you're heading to Austria in August, you'll want to pack for warm weather. Think lightweight, breathable clothing in conservative styles and dark, solid colours. Avoid revealing outfits and opt for knee-length skirts or dresses, long trousers and collared shirts. Pack a light jacket or cardigan for the evenings, which can be cool, and a raincoat for unexpected showers. And don't forget comfortable, flat shoes for walking on cobbled streets!

Pack for the heat

August is one of the hottest months in Austria, so you'll need to pack accordingly. The key is to bring lightweight, breathable clothing that will keep you cool in the summer heat. Here are some essential items to include in your suitcase:

• Linen and cotton fabrics: Look for items made from natural, breathable fabrics such as cotton and linen. These materials will help keep you cool and comfortable in the warm Austrian summer.
• Polished t-shirts and blouses: Pack a few polished t-shirts in neutral tones, as well as pretty linen blouses. These can be dressed up or down, depending on the occasion.
• Modest clothing: While you want to stay cool, it's important to remember that Austrians tend to dress in a sophisticated and fairly conservative way. Avoid overly revealing clothing, and opt for more modest options instead.
• Lightweight pants and shorts: Bring a pair of lightweight, quick-drying pants for comfort in Austria's warm summer weather. You can also pack a pair of stylish shorts, but avoid denim cut-offs. Bermuda shorts or linen shorts are more chic options.
• Skirts and dresses: Maxi or midi skirts are perfect for a more elegant look, while stylish sundresses will keep you comfortable during the day. For evenings, pack a few dressier options that offer more coverage, such as a midi or knee-length dress.
• Rain gear: Even in the summer, Austria can experience thunderstorms and rain. Bring a packable rain jacket that's breathable and has a protective hood.
• Cardigan or light jacket: For cooler mornings and evenings, a light cardigan or jacket will provide an extra layer of warmth.
• Comfortable shoes: You'll likely be doing a lot of walking in Austria, so comfortable, supportive footwear is essential. Opt for stylish sneakers or sandals during the day, and a pair of chic ballet flats or sandals for the evening.
• Accessories: Don't forget to pack a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun!

Remember to check the weather forecast before your trip and pack accordingly. With these essential items in your suitcase, you'll be ready to beat the Austrian heat in style!

Prepare for rain

While August is one of the sunniest months in Vienna, Austria, it's always a good idea to be prepared for rain. Here are some tips to help you prepare for rainy days during your visit:

• Pack a lightweight raincoat or a thin jacket: Even during the summer months, it's a good idea to carry a light raincoat or a thin jacket with you. This will help protect you from unexpected rain showers.
• Bring an umbrella: A travel umbrella can come in handy not only for rain but also for providing shade on sunny days.
• Choose comfortable and stylish flat shoes: Opt for shoes with good grip and avoid sneakers. The cobbled streets of Austria can be slippery when wet, so it's important to wear shoes with a good grip.
• Pack quick-dry clothing: If you get caught in the rain, quick-dry clothing will help you stay comfortable. Consider packing clothing made from lightweight and breathable materials that dry quickly.
• Be prepared for cooler temperatures: Even in summer, the evenings can be cool, especially after rainfall. Bring a lightweight sweater or scarf to layer up if needed.
• Check the weather forecast: Stay updated with the local weather forecast to anticipate any changes. This will help you plan your activities and dress accordingly.
• Protect your belongings: Carry a small backpack or shoulder bag to keep your essentials safe and dry. Make sure it's waterproof or water-resistant to protect your belongings from the rain.

Wear conservative clothing

When packing for Austria in August, it is important to remember that Austrians tend to wear clothing that is quite formal and stylish. The general rule of thumb is to dress conservatively, especially if you are visiting anywhere other than Vienna.

Conservative fashion is characterised by modesty, subtlety, and elegance. It is a thoughtful approach to fashion, where coverage, fabric choice, and silhouette are carefully considered. In conservative countries such as Austria, this style of dress adapts to fit the context, whether professional, cultural, or personal.

• Opt for longer sleeves and hemlines. Knee-length skirts, long sleeve tops, and midi dresses are good choices.
• Choose clothing that shows less skin. Avoid revealing attire that exposes the midriff, belly button, lower back, or excessive chest area.
• Go for a relaxed and loose fit. Conservative clothing should not be too body-hugging but should offer a great silhouette.
• Dress appropriately for the place, event, and people you will encounter. Avoid very short hemlines and plunging necklines, especially in more conservative areas or when visiting religious sites.
• Provide balance in your outfit. You can add a touch of personality with colour, pattern, or texture while still maintaining a conservative look.
• Favour neutral or dark colours such as black, maroon, navy blue, white, and beige.
• Avoid athletic wear, baseball caps, and baggy jeans.
• For shoes, comfortable and stylish flat shoes are best. Avoid sneakers and sandals.

By following these guidelines, you can dress conservatively and respectfully during your visit to Austria in August while still expressing your personal style and staying cool in the summer heat.

Avoid shorts and cutoffs

When packing for a trip to Austria in August, it's important to consider the local fashion and cultural expectations. While you might be tempted to reach for your shorts and cutoffs, here's why you should avoid them:

Conservative Culture

Austria, with its strong Catholic roots, tends to lean towards conservative dressing. In general, Austrians dress in a sophisticated and fairly conservative manner, and revealing clothing is often frowned upon. While younger generations, particularly in Vienna, are more likely to embrace modern trends, the older population, which makes up a significant portion of the country, adheres to traditional values. As a result, you may want to avoid wearing very short shorts or cutoffs to respect the local culture and avoid standing out as a tourist.

Alternative Clothing Options

Instead of shorts, consider packing skirts, dresses, or trousers. These options will help you blend in with the locals, who typically favour more modest and conservative styles. Skirts and dresses are popular choices among Austrian women, offering a comfortable and stylish alternative to shorts. If you prefer trousers, opt for lightweight, tailored bottoms such as linen pants or capris, which provide a balance between style and comfort.

Respecting Religious Spaces

While Austria's churches don't have specific dress codes requiring you to cover your shoulders and knees, it is respectful to dress modestly when visiting these religious spaces. Shorts, especially short or revealing ones, may not be considered appropriate attire for visiting churches or holy places. By choosing alternative clothing options, you can ensure you're dressed respectfully for these cultural and religious sites.

Weather Considerations

Although Austria experiences hot summers, the evenings can still be cool. Packing a pair of lightweight trousers or a thin jacket can be a good idea to layer up when the temperature drops. Additionally, the summer months can bring unexpected rainstorms, so a light raincoat or umbrella will come in handy.

Blending In with the Locals

If you're aiming to blend in with the locals and avoid being targeted by tourist scams, it's best to avoid clothing that screams "tourist." Shorts, especially those that are particularly short or revealing, will quickly identify you as an outsider. Opting for more conservative and modest clothing choices will help you fit in with the local fashion and avoid unwanted attention.

Pack for the mountains

If you're planning to spend time in the mountains, you'll want to bring some hiking gear. However, if you're also visiting cities, you might want to bring something a bit more "general" for the cities or for fine dining in the evenings.

For hiking, it's important to wear good hiking shoes or boots. Make sure you've broken them in before the trip to avoid blisters. You'll also want to pack several pairs of hiking socks. In addition to your hiking gear, bring some regular clothes that can serve as casual dress for the cities.

The weather in the mountains can be unpredictable, so it's a good idea to pack for both warm and cool weather. Bring a mix of short- and long-sleeved shirts, as well as a light jacket or sweater. Don't forget to pack a hat, sunscreen, and insect repellent, especially if you plan to hike in the forests.

If you're planning to stay in a mountain hut, bring a sleeping bag and a lightweight headlamp.

Clothing tips for women

Austrian women generally avoid wearing jeans, especially during the day. Instead, they opt for dresses, skirts, and blouses. So, make sure to pack some skirts or dresses, as well as a lightweight cardigan or pashmina for the evenings.

Clothing tips for men

Austrian men also tend to avoid jeans, so it's best to pack smarter trousers or pants.

Frequently asked questions