In need of a Charleston getaway with your significant other this Fall? Charleston is the ideal spot for a romantic getaway, and pretty low maintenance when it comes to making a packing list. Let’s explore some of the items you’ll need in your carry on and some non-essentials that might be worth exploring.
- Walking shoes
Whether you plan on staying in historic Downtown Charleston or just outside, a good pair of walking/running shoes will be essential for your trip. Even if you’re not planning on walking the city from one side to the other, it is important to have a pair of closed toe, comfortable shoes handy. For starters, some of Charleston’s most picturesque streets (like Chalmers or Philadelphia Alley) are uneven, cobble stoned works of art, but definitely require lots of attention and a steady foot to avoid a stumble. Another important factor is the touring that you plan to do while in town. Palmetto Carriage Works offers fantastic hour-long historic horse & carriage tours of the city during the day, and Haunted History tours by night. While the tour itself is seated, you’ll want to be sure you have your sneakers or boots on for the tour of the barn after the tour. It’s truly a hidden gem in Charleston and definitely worth a visit, with the proper footwear.
- Clothing layers
Since Fall weather in Charleston can either mean sweltering summer heat or cool breeze light sweater weather depending on the day… or hour, it’s best to check the weather the day before your trip, and when in doubt, pack layers. If for no other reason, you’ll be able to bring your sweater to dinner at the Peninsula Grill to combat the undoubtedly high flowing air conditioning.
- Sunscreen/Bug Spray
As fall weather can be unpredictable, it’s best to come prepared with a good quality sunscreen for the daytime and plenty of bug spray for the evenings. Fall is known for “no-see-um” season which can be problematic for the traveler without the proper bug spray. Regular bug spray will likely help, but to avoid the pesky gnats we call no-see-ums, the best kind to use is one that is specifically made to keep them away. This is our favorite brand.
- A Smartwatch or Step Counter
If you’re like us and enjoy knowing how much of a city you explored by foot, a step counter or smartwatch is a fun way to track your progress on a trip. There is so much to see and do on foot in Charleston, you’ll be surprised how far one day can take you by merely walking around to the various attractions. Even better, Charleston is a fun city to jog, so if exercise normally makes its way onto your travel itinerary, definitely consider a morning or evening jog around the battery at White Point Garden and Rainbow Row for a picturesque view (and to move the needle on your smartwatch.)
The packing list can go on for days, but as long as you remember the essentials and think about other items that might be important to you and your SO, you are bound to have a fantastic Fall trip to Charleston, SC.