Top 10 Things to Have When Visiting Times Square, NYC

Top 10 Things to Have When Visiting Times Square, NYC
Your Ultimate Packing Guide for the Heart of the Big Apple

Times Square. The electric pulse of New York City. A beacon of light, energy, Broadway magic, and iconic American hustle. With more than 300,000 visitors each day, it’s no secret that Times Square is a must-see for anyone stepping foot in NYC. But here’s the thing: this bustling, crowded, always-on part of the city can either be magical or overwhelming depending on one key factor—how well you’re prepared.

To make the most out of your Times Square experience, you’ll want to come equipped with more than just excitement. Here are the Top 10 Things to Have When Visiting Times Square, especially if you're aiming for comfort, security, and unforgettable memories.

1. Comfortable Walking Shoes

#walkingshoes #NYCtravel #TimesSquare #comfort

Let’s start with your feet. You’ll be walking—a lot. Times Square itself spans several city blocks and connects you to the Broadway Theater District, Fifth Avenue shopping, Bryant Park, and more. The key is cushioned, breathable walking shoes that support long hours of standing and navigating concrete jungle sidewalks.

Pro Tip: Skip fashion for function. Even your comfiest sneakers will outperform sandals or trendy boots in this setting.

2. Portable Phone Charger

#phonecharger #travelgadgets #touristessentials #NYCtrip

Between snapping selfies with costumed characters, navigating Google Maps, and sharing reels of the neon lights, your phone will be in overdrive. Battery anxiety in a place like Times Square is real.

What to Look For:
Choose a compact power bank that can fully charge your phone at least once, preferably with fast charging capability.

Bonus Tip: Opt for one with multiple ports so you and a friend can power up together.

3. Compact Travel Umbrella

#travelumbrella #NYCweather #citytravel #raingear

New York’s weather is famously unpredictable. A clear sunny morning can turn into a rainy afternoon in minutes. A compact, wind-resistant umbrella is your best line of defense against sudden downpours.

Why It Matters in Times Square:
With minimal shelter and massive crowds, getting caught in the rain here means being completely exposed and soaked. A small umbrella fits in your bag and keeps you dry without being a hazard to others.

4. Crossbody Anti-Theft Bag

#antitheftbag #travelbag #NYCtrip #security

Times Square is safe, but it’s also crowded and touristy—two qualities that attract pickpockets. A crossbody anti-theft bag ensures your belongings stay secure while allowing hands-free exploration.

Look For:

• RFID-blocking compartments

• Locking zippers

• Slash-proof straps

Style meets peace of mind.

5. Reusable Water Bottle

#waterbottle #hydration #sightseeing #touristessentials

Walking around New York in any season can be dehydrating. Whether it’s the summer heat or dry winter air, a reusable water bottle keeps you refreshed and reduces plastic waste.

Best Bet:
A collapsible silicone bottle or an insulated stainless-steel version that fits easily in your bag.

Bonus: NYC tap water is some of the cleanest in the U.S. Refill for free at water fountains and restaurants.

6. Noise-Canceling Earbuds

#earbuds #NYCnoise #travelaccessories #music

New York City is loud. And Times Square is its beating, blaring heart. From honking taxis to street performers, auditory overload is inevitable.

Solution:
Noise-canceling earbuds allow you to enjoy your music or podcasts in peace—or simply block out the chaos when needed.

Use Cases:

• While waiting in long lines

• On the subway ride to and from

• For a little mid-day mindfulness escape

7. Sunglasses with UV Protection

#sunglasses #UVprotection #touristgear #comfort

The towering digital billboards of Times Square aren’t just bright—they reflect off glass, metal, and windows in every direction. Sunglasses with UV protection don’t just keep your eyes comfy, they shield them from long-term damage.

Style Tip:
Pack a lightweight, fashionable pair that complements your travel outfits while serving function. Polarized lenses are a plus!

8. Lightweight Jacket

#jacket #travelgear #touriststyle #citytravel

Even in summer, indoor spaces like restaurants and Broadway theaters crank up the AC. And come fall or spring, NYC weather can shift suddenly. A lightweight, packable jacket ensures you're comfortable day to night.

Ideal Types:

• A windbreaker

• A soft-shell jacket

• A breathable waterproof layer (perfect if paired with your travel umbrella)

9. MetroCard or Contactless Payment Card

#MetroCard #NYCsubway #travelcard #publictransport

Getting to Times Square and around NYC efficiently means one thing: public transit. A MetroCard or contactless-enabled payment card is your key to the subway system and buses.

Fast Facts:

• The 42nd Street–Times Square subway station is one of the largest in the city.

• OMNY (One Metro New York) allows you to use a tap-to-pay credit/debit card or smartphone.

Why It Matters:
Avoid long lines at vending machines or fumbling for cash. Transit cards let you glide in and out of the chaos like a local.

10. Mini Travel Guidebook or Map

#travelguide #NYCmap #citynavigation #touristessentials

While smartphones are great, nothing beats having a small travel guidebook or printed map when exploring a place like Times Square. You might want a break from your screen, or find yourself with low battery.

What to Include:

• Subway maps

• Landmark highlights

• Food and drink suggestions

• Broadway showtimes

• Restroom locations (crucial in crowded areas!)

Bonus Tips for Times Square Success

While the items above are your core essentials, here are a few pro tips to elevate your visit even more:

✓ Pack Light, But Smart

Your bag should be light enough to carry for hours, yet stocked with essentials. Avoid overpacking. Prioritize multipurpose items like your crossbody bag with multiple compartments.

✓ Arrive Early (or Late)

For photos and fewer crowds, visit early in the morning. For full light show vibes, come after dark. Midday sees the heaviest congestion.

✓ Be Broadway-Ready

Spontaneously grabbing a Broadway ticket? Most theaters have dress codes leaning toward business casual. Your lightweight jacket and sunglasses can help you transition seamlessly from sightseeing to theater night.

✓ Watch Out for Costumed Characters

Those Elmos, Spider-Men, and Mickeys roaming Times Square aren’t part of an official welcome committee. If you take a photo with them, they’ll expect a tip. Proceed with caution.

✓ Don’t Just Stay in Times Square

It’s easy to get lost in the lights, but NYC is so much more than this commercial crossroads. Use your travel guide and MetroCard to explore nearby gems like Bryant Park, Hell’s Kitchen, or the Museum of Modern Art.

Final Thoughts

Times Square is exhilarating, iconic, and unforgettable—but only if you're prepared. By bringing the Top 10 Essentials outlined in this guide, you’re setting yourself up for comfort, safety, and a stress-free New York City experience. From the right footwear to your hydration game, every item plays a role in how well your day unfolds.

So pack smart, travel light, and let the bright lights of Times Square leave you in awe—not in discomfort.

Tags
#walkingshoes #NYCtravel #TimesSquare #comfort #phonecharger #travelgadgets #touristessentials #travelumbrella #NYCweather #citytravel #raingear #antitheftbag #travelbag #NYCtrip #security #waterbottle #hydration #sightseeing #earbuds #NYCnoise #travelaccessories #music #sunglasses #UVprotection #touristgear #jacket #travelgear #touriststyle #MetroCard #NYCsubway #travelcard #publictransport #travelguide #NYCmap #citynavigation