Clothing for July/August

Hello,my husband and I are heading to Portugal for 3 weeks from July 20th,We are just backpacking and hope to spend time in the north as well as the centre and south,so just about the entire country.With just a backpack I am wondering what sort of clothes we will need,it is obviously going to be very warm but will we expect cool weather in the north so perhaps a jacket or not.I would be most grateful for any tips,kindest cheers,Carol.

I've been to Porto twice in July/August and while there have been warm days there have also been cool wet days as well. I'd recommend a jacket or a light pullover since Portugal is affected by Atlantic weather fronts all year round so if you're there for more than a few days, particularly in the north, you can expect at least a couple of days that are far from "very warm".

Just want to underline what said above (Atlantic weather on westfacing coasts in Europe - from Portugal to Norway) since OP may be under the impression that south of Europe - all of it - is hot and dry in the summer.
Although July/August actually - STATISTICALLY - are dry month in NPortugal - the only 2, then be prepared that you may not get the "statistical weather" this year (or any other) - in other words: it can become VERY wet!

Yep statistically weather is totally unpredictable.
But you may need something to cover up, for the Northern evenings as it can be cooler than expected.

Suggest a light-weight sweater and rain jacket. For details and photos of our visit to Portugal last September see the "Portugal" section of Our Travel Journals: http://www.evcal.org . For average monthly temperature and rainfall almost anywhere in the world wee http://www.weatherbase.com .

Agree with Ribeira Sacra. You will need just a little something to cover up.
A linen coat etc, for the nights.

Thanks so much,really looking forward to the trip,have tickets to Mark Knopfler in Lisbon,so can't wait.kindest cheers,Carol.