How should I pack for a school trip to Washington D.C?

The trip lasts four days in May. Does anybody know how the weather is in D.C. in May? Also, ideas for plane entertainment are appreciated. We will be doing plenty of walking, but also fun things. Is it better to over-pack and be on the safe side or pack lightly for a school trip? Thanks.

The weather can be anywhere from the 60-90 degrees in May, so I would pack 2 pairs of shorts, 2 pairs of pants, bring short sleeve shirts, and light jackets, wind breakers type. Bring really comfortable shoes. Also don't try and carry around a lot of things, because when you go into each museum bags are check, so the less you have the less you are likely to get stopped and hold up the group. What I would do is make a list of the things you want to be and save the shopping for the last day. This is mostly for girls. If it is a school trip, see if you can find out who your roommates will be, and have each one bring something different, one bring the hair dryer and curling iron, one bring the shampoo and conditioner, one bring pony tails holders, because you will probably be on a time crunch and there won't be enough outlets for more than one or two hair dryers at a time. Good Luck.

Check the weather before you go. May tends to be hot (and a little humid), but sometimes a little chilly at night. You should pack comfortable clothes. If you are going to the Mall, dress in layers. it can get chilly in some of the Smithsonians, but the Mall itself is always hot (unless it is the dead of winter, then it is bitter cold). You should wear clothes that are nice. Not too dressy, but not too casual.

My first suggestion is to go to your public library and check out a guide book on Washington DC so you will know something about what you are going to see. That makes everything more interesting.

May will be in the low 70's and you may get some rain. Do not dress sloppy but you do not have to be in fancy clothes. Just dress like you may meet important people.

Do not overpack. You will need comfortable walking shoes. Make sure you bring your camera and battery charger. Make sure you have an extra memory stick for the camera.

Comfy walking shoes. You will do a ton of walking in DC.

I went on a trip to Washington D.C. for my senior trip in May of 2005. Definitely prepare for spring weather. Bring jeans and a jacket, but also pack shorts and short sleeves just in case it's warm. It's always better to layer.

One extra piece of advice.......D.C. can be a scary place after dark...especially for someone who's never been before. Our whole class was walking back to our hotel just as it got dark and we were being followed by a homeless person! Creepy.......

Good luck though!

Layers is a good idea. Comfortable shoes, sunscreen, Camera, and as little as you have to while sight seeing. Bags are checked and there is too much walking around to have to tote all your stuff. A lightweight jacket that can be tucked away easily is a good idea. But most of all pack a hearty appetite for history. Washington DC is full of it and it is an amazing view. Have a wonderful trip and have lots of fun.