Table of Contents

17 Elevation Spain Packing List Items for 2022 + What to Wear & NOT to bring

17 Top Spain Packing List Items for 2022 + What to Wear & NOT to bring

seen in: national geographic, cnn, travel + leisure, new york times

the guardian, lonely planet, usa today, forbes

Espana is a wondrous mix of the old and new. To help navigate this great land, I put this packing checklist together.

At the end you'll also meet a section on what to wear in Spain too as a list of items NOT to bring and other FAQs.

Spaniards have style and taste — and that goes for every attribute of their lives. To fit in, make sure you pack accordingly, and don't forget your appetite, endurance, and appreciation of life's simple pleasures.

Flamenco Dancer Spain
Traditional Spanish Flamenco dancing dress.

What to Pack for Spain – 17 Essentials

  • i. Neck Wallet

    Pickpockets are extremely mutual in Spain, particularly if you program on heading to Madrid, Barcelona, Seville or anywhere with large crowds. A quality neck wallet makes it next to impossible to become a target of thieves. This one is sturdy yet inexpensive, RFID safe, can hands fit your prison cell telephone, cash, ATM cards, and passport without feeling too beefy. To be actress vigilant, wear this pouch tucked under your shirt (like my hubby does) and you won't run across a problem.

    Available on HeroTravelSupply.com with an exclusive 15% disbelieve using the coupon code "HERO".

    Neck Wallet

    Or View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 2. Spain Ability adapter

    Spain'south electrical outlets telephone call for 220V, 50 Hz — and blazon F prongs (with the rounded tip). This is different than the U.S., so bring along a ability adapter that will work with your devices. If you're visiting other countries, I highly recommend you go an international power adapter (like the one pictured) that works in practically every country. This one likewise comes with a lifetime replacement guarantee!

    Power Adaptor

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 3. Lipstick-Sized Portable Charger

    This external battery pack is a fantastic way to keep an easy device-accuse on hand at all times. It uses the USB cord that nearly devices come with to transfer charge, and is roughly the size of a tube of lipstick! This makes it piece of cake to conduct around with you for those times when your device needs to be charged but yous don't want to go dorsum to your room to look for information technology to charge via an outlet. This pocket-size but powerful charger is a must-have.

    charger

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 4. Gorgeous Outfit

    A nighttime out in Spain is the perfect excuse to wear a killer outfit. I love this jumpsuit because information technology looks great on virtually all trunk types and it doesn't wrinkle easily when packed in your suitcase. Y'all tin clothing it to dinner and head out dancing without needing to change. I love the open back design, and the price is unbeatable.

    jumpsuit

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • five. Packing Cubes

    Packing cubes are a Total GAME CHANGER for organizing your suitcase. They help compact your items while keeping them compartmentalized then that you know exactly where your different wear items are. In one case you lot've tried these you volition never travel without them considering they make traveling so much less stressful! These ones even take an alphabetize menu feature on the back then that you tin write EXACTLY what's in each cube.

    Hero Packing cubes

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 6. Jet Lag relief

    Don't allow jet lag weigh you downwards and end you from enjoying those beginning few days of your trip. This homeopathic, natural jet lag preventative and relief supplement works wonders. If you lot take it according to the instructions, it tin really help speed up the recovery process from traveling, and yous'll make it feeling refreshed and set to explore Spain and its wonders.

    Jet lag remedy pills

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • seven. Virtual Private Network (VPN)

    Through some recent bad experiences where I had my credit card number stolen while staying at an Airbnb in Paris I've learned that a VPN is essential for any travel.

    A proficient VPN (like NordVPN) gives you an added layer of security so that you can keep all your sensitive data such as passwords, credit cards and even your identity from being hacked. I've learned that whenever you go on someone else's WiFi whether it'southward at a buffet, airport, Airbnb, or hotel, you're potentially putting your data at risk. With a VPN, you can protect any device with the push of a push.

    Virtual Private Network (VPN)

    View NordVPN.com Options ➜

  • 8. Pashmina Shawl/Scarf

    A scarf will help you lot two-fold in Espana: for whatever seasonal changes, where an actress layer is called for, and when you demand to embrace a upwardly in the historic churches or other religious sites you'll be visiting. Pack a lighter 1 for the warmer months and heavier one for the rest of the twelvemonth. This is a bully opportunity to accessorize, besides, so have reward of Spain's trend to exist fashion-forrad and apparel up your whole outfit with a squeamish-looking scarf!

    shawl

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 9. Hanging toiletry bag

    The merely way to properly describe this toiletry purse is "SEXY". Honestly, I take never had a dearest matter with a bag quite like I exercise with this one by Vetelli! They say it'southward for men, but honestly (as a woman) I don't care. We all need certain toiletries from home while traveling, and keeping them clean, organized, and spill-free during the ride can save a lot of problem and hassle— and I have never found such a quality bag so inexpensive. Plus it makes organization and re-packing a cakewalk.

    hanging toiletry bag

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • x. Deodorant Wipes

    Deodorant wipes are fantastic because Spain is hot and if you lot're planning any full day trips y'all are inevitably going to become sweaty and stinky. Instead of stressing on whether your body odor is too much, only carry along a few of these little puppies. You can bust 1 out when you are in the bathroom and with one quick wipe, you will feel refreshed and stink-free. I love this brand because they aroma amazing and are total of essential oils and other non-toxic ingredients.

    deoderant wipes

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 11. Travel Insurance for Espana

    Travel Insurance is and so important when heading overseas, and TravelInsurance.com is our pinnacle option for finding the perfect policy for your needs. Travel insurance will cover your costs if your luggage gets lost or stolen, or if cancellations to your flights occur… But mayhap near importantly, information technology will front end a medical beak if past chance you terminate up needing to see a doctor for an accident, injury or other kind of emergency. We simply don't travel without information technology.

    Travel Insurance logo

    Compare policies at TravelInsurance.com ➜

  • 12. Comfortable flats

    Footwear is definitely noticed in this country — and flip flops are not acceptable beyond the beach. Additionally, y'all will find that driving in sandals is actually illegal, so go along that in mind if you program to hire or drive a automobile while in Kingdom of spain. Given the amount of walking y'all'll exist doing on a daily basis, a solid pair of comfy flats, both stylish and supportive, will be a helpful addition to your wardrobe here.

    Comfortable flats

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 13. Stylish Backpack

    In Spain, mode matters. And yet, y'all are probably going to be leaving your hotel early and spending a lot of time walking, visiting museums, taking buses, trains and many other modes of public transportation. A stylish (even so extremely inexpensive) backpack like this one fits all the essentials, has a comfortable design for those long days, and it's fashionable enough that you won't experience like a tourist.

    lather bag

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 14. Activated charcoal

    Spain is known for remarkable food and delicious wines — and trust me, it will not disappoint! This said, we highly recommend bringing activated charcoal but in case yous end upwards with a bout of food poisoning or traveler'southward diarrhea. These activated charcoal tablets quickly absorb any toxins that may be in your system and can assist remedy your upset stomach apace and easily with no harmful side effects. In our experience, you will be dorsum on your anxiety within a few hours, rather than spending days of your vacation in bed recovering.

    Pro Tip: Be sure to consume at high-turnover restaurants and avoid pre-made sandwiches – peculiarly those that might have been sitting around for days or without proper refrigeration.

    charcoal

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • fifteen. Quick-dry towel

    This item is a true travel staple item for a reason: y'all never know what your accommodations will be like in some circumstances, and you never know when you'll need a meaty, quick-dry towel while you're traveling in Espana. Even if you know you're staying in a place that will provide adequate, make clean towels, it'southward still wise to accept a packable version.

    Microfiber Towel

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • xvi. Water bottle with built-in filter

    H2o quality is tough to predict in many parts of Europe – Spain tends to take good water in about areas, but in other towns it'due south not wise to potable the tap water. Bringing a h2o bottle with you lot is a skilful idea regardless, merely bringing a bottle with a congenital-in filter means you'll e'er have control over whether the h2o you're drinking is safety for consumption.

    water bottle

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 17. Solid shampoo

    When flying to Spain you lot'll have to carefully mensurate amounts of liquids and cram them all into advisable quart-sized bags for security checkpoints if you lot're carrying them onto the plane. Any production that can cut down on the liquids you have to pack is a great choice, and this solid shampoo by Lush is no exception. If you're skeptical of solid shampoo, this i won't let yous down – it works just likewise as the liquid variety.

    Solid Shampoo

    View on Amazon.com ➜

What to wear in Espana

How to locals dress in Spain? From fiestas to the flamenco, Pablo Picasso, and Antoni Gaudí, Spain is a vibrant country with a lot to offer. Whether you are visiting the major cities like Barcelona or Madrid or planning a coastal getaway in Andalusia or the Canary Islands, you lot will find that Spaniards accept a great sense of manner.

Bring dress that are well fitted in muted colors. Dress on the conservative side and cull versatile outfits that tin can be worn in museums and churches during the 24-hour interval and and so to restaurants, concerts, and dancing at nighttime.

What should WOMEN vesture in Espana? – (Click to expand)

Beneath is a sample women'due south clothing list. (All items link to Amazon.com for your convenience).

Women in Kingdom of spain take a great sense of style, with a smart coincidental wait that is on the conservative side. Start by packing footwear which is comfy and tin can easily be worn for many hours such every bit fashion sneakers. Many local women wear talocrural joint boots from fall to early spring and wedge heels during the summer evenings. Skinny jeans are very pop in any season and the trendy broad leg plants look great in spring and summertime. On meridian, bring camis to pair with long sweaters, cardigans, or a nice blouse. During the warmer months add some way to your outfits by packing jumpsuits and long maxi dresses. For outside, pack a light hooded jacket and retro band shades. Lastly, boho earrings make swell accessories for any outfit along with leather ring bracelets.

What should MEN wear in Kingdom of spain? – (Click to expand)

Below is a sample women's vesture list. (All items link to Amazon.com for your convenience).

Up your style when visiting Espana. Offset with a pair of comfortable shoes to clothing in the 24-hour interval and leather wingtip shoes in the evening. Pants are worn in every season even when information technology is hot outside so pack a few pairs such every bit skinny fit jeans and/or tapered trousers. A nifty leather money belt protects you from pickpocketers by beingness able to store your cash inside the chugalug. On top, choose brusk sleeve wearing apparel shirts and polos for warmer months and oxford long sleeves and cardigans for the cooler months. Bring clothes that are well fitted and in muted colors without graphics. Outside wear a light hooded jacket with sunglasses. If it is cold pack beanie hat and scarf. Bring an RFID minimalist wallet for your credit cards and pack it in a rucksack for day exploring.

Packing for the Seasons in Spain

There's a prevailing myth that the weather in Spain is perfect all year round. While many parts of the state enjoy wonderful weather much of the fourth dimension, every part of Kingdom of spain endures some rougher atmospheric condition and seasonal changes. The gold rule is to do some research on the specific region you'll be visiting, only the guidelines below should exist more than enough for most travelers.

Jump – March, April, May:

Jump in Spain is lovely, and a hot fourth dimension for tourism. When winter finally lets go, the air warms and the weather stays balmy, so sun is plentiful. In certain parts of Kingdom of spain it'southward not uncommon to have a few days that are warm enough for embankment fourth dimension, but don't plan on spending all of your time sunbathing in a bikini.

Most of Espana enjoys breezes and temps comfortable plenty to dine exterior without a jacket, but recall that pelting is not uncommon in jump.

Pack a expert pelting jacket and a windproof travel umbrella and so that you'll be prepared should you be caught in a rainshower. A layering shawl is platonic to protect you lot from the arctic of cooler evenings. Temperatures average between 55°F and 65°F (13°C to 18°C) with earlier months being the coldest.

SUMMER – June, July, Baronial, part of September:

This flavour brings heat to the whole country, though the northern areas are much milder than the southern regions. Rain tin still be expected, especially in the north, and then bring a rain jacket and a good umbrella!

Pack light layers to ward off occasional breezes and to protect your skin from the sun, but await to tolerate some college oestrus, besides. A sunhat, sunglasses, and beachwear (swimsuit, swimsuit cover up, flip flops) are definitely appropriate – just keep beachwear at the embankment and the pool. Summer is kind of a shoulder-season to the 2 primary jump and autumn tourist seasons, but you can expect to still encounter a lot of tourists. Temperatures average between lxx°F and 85°F (21°C to 29°C).

FALL – September, Oct, Nov:

A magical and balmy time in Kingdom of spain, the fall brings some crispness to the air and the changing of the leaves. When packing for a fall trip, be sure to include a light jacket and a scarf or shawl – you'll want to have something to ward off the evening chills that can too continue you cozy on colder days.

Crowds are prevalent since the weather is so squeamish (this is a high-flavor, after all), so you lot'll meet throngs of eager visitors at attractions.

Sometimes winter tends to sneak in a scrap early, so it's a good thought to cheque local weather condition forecasts right earlier you get and to pack accordingly. Temperatures average betwixt 55°F and seventy°F (thirteen°C to 21°C) with after months in the colder ranges.

WINTER – Dec, January, February, part of March:

Winters in Kingdom of spain tend to exist drier than other places in Europe, and are fairly mild with regard to conditions. Obviously, this is the coldest season of the year, so pack accordingly, and don't forget to bring layering items that tin can be mixed and matched and then that you tin avoid bringing besides much clothing!

Y'all may just need a fleece or a mid-weight jacket if you're used to the cold, merely if you come from a identify where cold is uncommon you may want to opt for a heavier coat and a lid and gloves. Certainly if you're planning to ski or accept part in other snowfall sports while on your trip, you'll need to pack advisable gear. Temperatures boilerplate between 45°F and 50°F (vii°C to 10°C).

How to apparel for dissimilar activities in Espana – (Click to expand)

Religious Sites – Catholicism has been very prominent in Spain for hundreds of years and every bit a result, beautiful churches and cathedrals tin can be establish throughout the country. Santiago de Compostela Cathedral is known as one of the greatest works of compages and Seville Cathedral is the largest gothic cathedral in the globe. Every bit these are religious sites, it is important to pay attention to the apparel code and wearable outfits that are more on the bourgeois side. Both men and women need to have their shoulders covered. If you practice cull to wear shorts (though non recommended), ensure that it goes beneath the knee. Anything that exposes cleavage, the midriff or back should be avoided. Just proceed in mind that locals normally salve shorts for the embankment and then pants are always a better option along with shoes instead of sandals.

Gourmet Food – From Spanish tapas to the coastal seafood, charcuterie, and roasts, the cuisine in Espana is packed with flavour. Kingdom of spain is a gourmet nutrient destination with some restaurants fifty-fifty gaining a Michelin star (many of which are located in San Sebastian). El Celler de Can Roc, Akelarre, and Arzak are some of the elevation rated and have three Michelin stars. Whether you lot are at a fine dining eating house or out for a night of tapas, take a smart casual arroyo to how you wearing apparel. For casual restaurants, men can clothing dark fitted jeans with a t-shirt and blazer and for fancier restaurants, go with trousers and a clothes shirt. For footwear, choose a nice pair of leather shoes. Women can wear maxi or cocktail dresses with a pair of wedge heels. For colder months, wear ankle boots, with black skinny pants, a blouse and nice sweater. Makeup and jewelry are also mutual for a night out.

Beaches – From pulverization sand beaches to crystal clear waters, Spain has enough of beaches for a relaxing holiday. Costa Brava, Gran Canaria, Majorca, and Costa Del Sol are just some parts of Kingdom of spain offering fantastic beaches. Finally, these are places where you lot can dress in shorts! Getting to the embankment though, you lot will want to alloy in with locals so wear a flowing clothes overtop or shorts and a tank. For women, bikinis are the most pop choice. Men tend to wear swim shorts that become above the knee and are more than fitted. Watch out for pickpocketing though as beachgoers are a prime number target. Practise not take whatever valuables with you lot and by bringing an RFID wallet to throw in a bag with many pockets. It's likewise a good idea to bring a microfibre towel that is lightweight for packing and apace dries.

Football game (Soccer) – Football is the most pop sport in Espana where information technology's practically considered a religion and some of the worlds best clubs like Real Madrid and FC Barcelona compete. If you are already a fan of the game, wear your favorite teams' bailiwick of jersey. If you desire to go the actress mile, throw on some confront paint! If yous just want to experience Spanish football game, pick a side and apparel in their colors. Information technology'due south easiest if y'all pick the domicile team to avoid unwanted comments from passionate fans. Jeans are the about pop choice for bottom wear and don't forget to bring a pair of sunglasses.

What NOT to bring to Spain:

  • 1.DON'T Accept flip flops with the intention of wearing them anywhere other than the beach

    You lot'll be among a mode frontward crowd in Espana, and then it'southward best to dress the role. Blending in and being respectful will require a step up in the wardrobe, and that includes keeping those flip flops strictly at the beach.

  • 2.DON'T BRING a hairdryer

    Fifty-fifty with an adaptor, some of your more powerful appliances won't do and so well with the electrical conversion. It'southward best to leave your hair dryer at home. Many accommodations volition provide 1. Otherwise just accept advantage of the arid climate and air-dry your hair.

  • three.DON'T BRING valuables

    Crime can exist a problem in the touristy parts of Spain's major cities, and even in some smaller cities and towns. Leave valuables at home or locked in a safe at your accommodations – you really won't need them anyhow. When carrying coin and passport, information technology's also best to use a Passport Pouch.

  • 4.DON'T TAKE books – opt for a Kindle

    Books take upward a lot of space and weight, but a Kindle will allow you to read without the extra load. If you must have print books, yous tin can look upward spots along the way (like cafes and hostels) to bandy out an old book for a new i — meaning less to deport.

  • five.DON'T PACK then much that y'all don't take space for souvenirs

    Spain has some magnificent shopping, and y'all'll definitely desire to bring home some items that you purchase. Whether it's an extra bottle of wine or some bottles of Espana's incredible olive oil, you lot'll want some room to spare in your checked luggage.

  • 6.DON'T PACK immodest habiliment

    Spain is mode-frontwards, but it's also a stride where most people are fairly religious or at least conservative with their clothing. You may run across some people wearing shorts but it'due south uncommon, and you lot certainly won't see short shorts or other revealing clothing anywhere simply the beach.

What clothing should I NOT article of clothing in Spain? – (Click to aggrandize)

The people of Spain have a great sense of style. To non stand out equally a tourist, wearing apparel on the conservative side and never article of clothing shorts or sandals unless you are going to the beach. Avert baggy clothing, sweatpants, sweatshirts, work out clothing, graphic tees, brilliant colors, baseball game caps, and sneakers. You will be doing enough of exploring effectually Spain, so do non bring any shoes that are uncomfortable for walking. Women should also avoid tops with plunging necklines, crop tops, brusque dresses, and shorts. Lastly, never wear an opposing teams jersey in a urban center.

FAQs most traveling in Kingdom of spain

  • one. What is the weather similar in Kingdom of spain?

    Spain has hot summers and cool, dry winters, then plan your trip and your outfits accordingly. Espana's loftier seasons for tourism are in the spring and fall, just really, in that location isn't much of a "bad" fourth dimension to visit. Southern Spain tin get as well unbearably hot for some, while Northern Spain is considerably cooler. One thing to annotation is that many residents of Kingdom of spain take their vacations in the month of August and then quite a few shops and restaurants may be closed during the heat of that month.

    Spain Beach Tourism
  • 2. What kinds of transportation are available in Spain?

    Taxis are common in the major cities of Spain. If you want to venture out on your ain, brand sure yous're comfortable with manual transmissions, every bit that's what you'll discover in near rental cars, and remember the strict Spanish laws regarding footwear while driving! You tin detect bicycle-sharing systems in cities like Barcelona. But overall, walking is a pleasant and efficient mode to come across the cities.

  • 3. Is a visa required to visit Spain?

    For American citizens, a visa is not required for stays under 90 days. However, your passport needs to be valid for at least three months beyond your planned divergence date.

  • 4. How much of a time departure tin I expect?

    Depending on where y'all are in Spain, yous'll be Western European Time or Primal European Time — five or 6 hours ahead, respectively, of east coast time in the U.S.

    Spanish square night
  • 5. Is it safe to drink the h2o in Kingdom of spain?

    The water is safety to potable in the urban areas of Spain and some more adult towns. If you get more than remote, you may want to bring bottled water with you, or but carry a refillable water bottle with a congenital-in filter and so that you don't have to worry nearly the quality of the water wherever you go!

  • half-dozen. How is the healthcare?

    Healthcare in the state is very high-quality, and pretty easy to admission. It is important, still, to brand sure you check with your insurance regarding coverage or add together a supplemental policy to cover the fourth dimension yous'll exist traveling in Spain.

  • 7. What's the food like?

    Spain is well known for tapas, or pocket-sized plates. They are shareable and delectable, from patatas bravas (potatoes) to omelets to croquettes. Yous'll likely have heard of Paella as well – a rice and seafood dish that is simple simply delicious. Paella is local to the Valencia region and tin can be widely found at that place, but it's not quite equally mutual in other regions. Fret not – there are many other astonishing dishes to look frontwards to! The country is also known for its Jamón ibérico, or anile ham, which is a effeminateness everyone should attempt at least once. Dinner is much later than Americans are used to – these lighter tapas meals frequently start later 9 pm.

    Spanish Paella
  • 8. What are typical accommodations like in Espana?

    You have a range of options to choose from in Espana — from 5 star resorts to boutique hotels to budget hostels. 1 choice to keep in mind is abode-sharing platforms like Airbnb. You can notice slap-up deals in the center of the action, and they're frequently much easier on your budget.

  • 9. What kinds of things are there to do?

    Depending on your interests, you take endless options in Espana.

    Whether you desire to go full-tourist and cheque out The Sagrada Familia or spend the afternoon with a chilled bottle of cava and a plate of aged manchego cheese, brand certain that y'all dull downwards and relish.

    At that place are beaches to relax on, gardens to roam and churches to see, streets to walk and shops to explore. Grab your Alone Planet Guidebook and enjoy the journey.

    Spanish architecture church
  • 10. Do shops really close for siesta?

    Depending on where you are, the customs may or may not accept advantage of the afternoon
    siesta. In the major cities, you'll find that things continue to operate more or less as normal. At that place's even
    been argue over irresolute the working hours for Spaniards — ending the solar day at vi pm rather than 7 pm, effectively eliminating the do. However, in the smaller towns it's more common for businesses to close down from about 2 pm to 5 pm, and you should plan accordingly.

  • eleven. Tin I get dinner at 7 pm, or exercise I really take to await until the Castilian swallow at nine pm?

    Yes, you can typically still discover some places to eat at "regular" dinner times, but they will be adequately empty (aside from those catering specifically to tourists).
    Notwithstanding, some restaurants exercise change their opening times and won't open until later (eight or 9 pm). Then if y'all have your heart set on a spot, information technology's best to check ahead of time. And if yous want to encounter how the urban center really lives, look a couple more than hours – snack on some Jamón and wine while you're waiting!

    Spanish Jamon
  • 12. What kind of power outlets are in Kingdom of spain? Exercise I demand an adapter?

    Plugs are type F with the standard voltage around 220 V and 50 Hz frequency, so bring a Spain power adapter – it'southward essential if y'all programme to charge anything while you're in that location.

Spain Travel Packing List

Equally a summary, hither is our recommended ten mean solar day packing list for Espana (including what to clothing):

  • One comport-on case
  • One normal suitcase
  • One or 2 pairs of fashionable walking flats
  • Two sundresses or nicer outfits
  • Three or 4 modest but fashionable tops
  • 1 or two pairs of squeamish pants
  • One shawl or pashmina
  • Underwear and socks
  • Four of 5 T-shirts
  • I swimsuit
  • One swimsuit cover-up
  • One sunhat
  • One fabled going-out outfit
  • One pair of stylish closed-toe shoes
  • Fashionable boots
  • One concealable passport pouch
  • Dainty-looking daybag
  • RFID-blocking wallet
  • One compact portable charger
  • Two power adapters for Espana
  • Headphones
  • Headphone splitter
  • Espana guidebook
  • Virtual Private Network
  • Kindle or other eReader
  • Toiletries
  • Hanging toiletry bag
  • Jet Lag relief pills
  • Deodorant Wipes
  • One Windproof Umbrella
  • Packing cubes
  • Musquito wristbands
  • Insect Repellent
  • Travel insurance
  • Credit cards (ideally with zero transaction fees)
  • Passport
  • Visa (if applicable)
  • Small amount of cash