Ultimate Female Travel Packing List for Austin in Spring

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This female travel packing list for Austin in spring has been written by Jillian Mirandi. See all packing list posts here.

Springtime in Austin is the perfect time for a girlfriend’s getaway. Or any getaway for that matter. Whether you’re visiting for a stop on your backpacking trip or wanting to escape your normal life for a week, there is so much happening in Austin in spring that you are sure to have a great time.

From biking, hiking, food trucks, walking the city, and the University of Texas to shopping, bar hopping in the sun, wineries, tacos, $1 mimosas, BBQ, and crazy nightlife, there is something for everybody. The city is a melting pot of people, flavors, and flare from across Texas, L.A., New England, the Midwest, Mexico, and more – truly making it a city of happy, laid-back individuals. 

Make sure you are prepared for your trip with this ultimate female travel packing list for Austin in spring.

Spring Weather in Austin

Austin’s climate in the spring is perfect for just about any outdoor adventure. The days are generally warm and pleasant but it can get much cooler in the evenings so layers are key for your Austin packing list for spring!

March: The weather is warm during the day at 73°F (23°C) but cooler in the evenings at 52°F (11°C) so make sure you add a light jacket to your packing list.

April: Things start to warm up in April and you can expect the temperature to rise to 80°F (27°C) during the day and 59°F (15°C) during the evenings. Come prepared for rain because it can get wet and stormy!

May: May is warm and breezy with highs of 88°F (31°C) and lows of 66°F (19°C). May is the wettest month in Austin so pack appropriately.

Packing List for Austin in Spring

Austin Packing List: Clothing

Athletic pants (1) – Essential for biking or hiking. Tons of people wear tight, black athletic pants around town during the day (including outdoor bars, and restaurants).

Jeans (1 ) – I brought a pair of dark wash skinny jeans that I could wear with flats or boots. I chose the darker wash because it looks a bit more dressy for night and won’t show spills as easily! I wore the same jeans for four days in a row (they keep their shape well), but if this grosses you out, you can always handwash them halfway through your trip and wear your athletic pants while they dry.

• Editor’s note: Take a look at some other travel pants options if you prefer to avoid traveling with jeans.

• Check out our hand-washing essentials if you’re planning on doing washing on your trip to Austin.

Basic t-shirts (3) – T-shirts are great for layering in the TX spring and can be dressed up at night. I would recommend bringing at least one in black. 

Cardigans (2) – Again, for layering. I suggest one black, wrinkle-free, ¾ sleeve that will match everything and one in a more fun print or color.

Casual button-down shirt (1) – Good to wear from day to night, especially if you’re planning on a low-key evening. 

Nicer blouse or “going out shirt” (1-2) – A good idea if you plan on going to a nicer restaurant or a cocktail bar in the evenings. Overall, it’s fine to be casual but people do dress up a bit if they are going somewhere a bit nicer.

Bras (1-2) – I suggest black and neutral, but depending on your wardrobe, just one may work. Pick support and comfort over looks so that they’ll work for any activity.

Light Jacket – Don’t let the warm weather during the day fool you, it can get chilly at night and you’ll want to be prepared.

Panties, Socks, Pajamas – These need little explanation.

Austin Packing List: Shoes

Sneakers – You will need these for hiking/biking/walking around the lake. I didn’t bring sneakers and I regretted it!

Cute flats or sandals – Acceptable everywhere and better than boots on warmer days. 

Cowboy boots – They serve multiple purposes and are acceptable everywhere from checking out the city during the day to hitting the bar scene. Wear these on the plane to save room in your suitcase.

• While cowboy boots may be super fun, they are not essential. You may want to bring boots with more support for walking or simply wear your sneakers when walking around town. If you are struggling to decide on what shoes to bring, check out our blog post, How to Choose Your Travel Shoes.

Austin Packing List: Accessories

Scarf – Contrary to popular belief (or at least mine), Austinites love scarves! Bring one that matches all of your outfits to layer with (and easily store in a purse when not needed).

Statement necklace – To easily dress up a day outfit for dinner or a night out.

Sunglasses – Any type work, but I prefer the aviator type to go with the cowboy boots (can you tell there’s a theme here?). Bring whatever works for you.

Austin Packing List: Toiletries

Everyday toiletries – I found the water a bit harsh (FYI for sensitive skin and hair).

Baby powder – To put in flats… also good to prevent underarm sweat stains.

Makeup – Keep it simple and natural especially if you’re traveling towards the end of spring when things are really heating up.

Curling iron or wand – I recommend 1 ¼ inch to make big, loose waves. The women in Austin rock this look. My opinion is that it looks flattering on everyone and works well when it gets humid!

Hairspray – To keep those waves in place (travel kind so you can still take carry-on).

Sunscreen – Even in February, my fair-skinned friends got very red after a short time in the sun.

Tums – There is TONS of amazing food in Austin and we ate A LOT. I am very sensitive and was totally fine, but it would be good to have just in case (think tacos for breakfast, lunches from food trucks, and traditional homestyle BBQ for dinner…).

• You may not need to pack as many toiletry items as Jillian. If you like to do your hair and make-up every day and you have space for all your tools, bring them. But if you prefer a more low-key look usually, chances are you won’t be curling your hair when traveling. If you want to size down your toiletry bag, check out this blog post, How to Pack Liquid Toiletries.

Austin Packing List: Tech Gear

Phone – You don’t need to buy a fancy camera if you don’t have one. The camera on most smartphones these days is perfectly fine and will capture the sights beautifully.

eReader/iPad – This is great for the plane (there’s not a ton of direct flights to Austin I learned), before bed, and when hanging out in one of the many outdoor spots. 

Chargers – You don’t want to forget these!

Extra Info for Your Trip to Austin in Spring

Getting Around

The main public transport in Austin is bus. These are relatively inexpensive. Purchase a seven-day pass if you’re staying in Austin for more than a few days. There is also a metro rail which although may not stop at the most popular stops, you will be able to catch a connecting bus to your destination.

The easiest way to get around Austin is by car. You can rent a car or use a ridesharing service. Just be aware that there will very likely be traffic! Take this into account when you have reservations to get to even when taking public transport. Austin is a rapidly growing city and the infrastructure is not growing at the same rate. 

You can also rent a bike if the weather is not too hot! This is a great way to see the city.

Sample the Local Food

Austin is well known for its amazing food scene from breakfast tacos to Tex-Mex and barbeques. If there is somewhere you really want to go, make sure you book well in advance to secure your reservation. 

There are a few well-known places that don’t take reservations and you will end up waiting in a queue. Arrive early and be prepared to wait a bit. You can always get a snack from one of the many food trucks while you wait.

Live Music Capital of the World 

It would be a shame to visit the live music capital of the world and not experience some of the music scene. You could even plan your trip around one of the many music festivals hosted in Austin. 

Alternatively, if you are looking to avoid the crowds, plan your trip when you know no big festivals are happening. There are 100s of live music venues all around the city, so you will still be able to experience some awesome live music!

Is there anything missing from this female travel packing list for Austin in spring? Let us know in the comments below.

*Article originally submitted in 2013, updated last in Feb 2024.

About the author: Jillian is a native New Englander living on the NH seacoast. Studying in London and as an international studies and business major, Jillian fell in love with different cultures, food, and adventure – both in the U.S. and abroad. She travels, eats, and experiences as much as possible whether it be road trips to the mountains, visiting friends and family, flying to faraway lands, or tacking a few extra days onto business trips.. shh!!