No matter where you’re going, choosing what to pack for your trip has got to be one of the highlights of planning a new adventure. When it comes to Spain, one of the most popular destinations in Europe for travellers, you run the risk of a very long list, thanks to Spain’s diverse range of climates, terrains and activities.
A packing list you might make for the south of Spain in the summer would be completely different to the packing list you’d make for the north of Spain during the summer, or the south during the winter! And, the packing list you’d make for hiking the Camino de Santiago would be completely different to the packing list you’d make for lounging on the beach in the Canary Islands.
So, how do you decide what to pack?
Luckily for you, this guide has you covered. I’m currently travelling in Spain for the sixth time this year (yes, even for me, that’s a lot!), so I’m well experienced in packing for a trip to Spain to say the least. I also spent a few months living in the south of Spain in 2020/2021 on the Erasmus+ programme and, more recently, have travelled to Barcelona, Extremadura, Valencia and Madrid.
So, here’s a guide to creating the perfect Spain packing list.
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Things to Think About Before You Pack
Before choosing your bag and how you’re going to pack it, think about how much luggage you want to take with you on your trip to Spain. Do you prefer to pack light, or will you take check-in luggage? If you take check-in luggage, there will be an extra cost on flights and sometimes trains in Spain, too.
If you’ll be ride sharing, like BlaBlaCar, there often isn’t enough room for large bags.
I’m also a big fan of packing cubes, because they help to keep your things organised, the clean clothes from the dirty clothes, the fancy clothes from the hiking clothes, etc.
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What Kind of Bag or Suitcase to Take to Spain
What kind of bag should you choose when you’re packing for a trip to Spain? Well, that will depend a lot on the kind of trip you’re taking, but if you want to take a rolling suitcase do remember that a lot of Spanish cities have uneven pavements, cobblestone streets, and a distinct lack of disabled access (aka elevators, escalators and dipped pavements that will help you with your wheelie bag).
I personally always travel with a backpack, but that’s just preference, and I tend to move around a lot. If you’re not going to be doing much travelling, or you prefer Ubers over taking the metro anyway, then a rolling suitcase isn’t a bad idea.
Also, if you’re packing heavy, go for a rolling suitcase – carrying a huge, huge backpack around is no fun!
Spain in the Summer
Of course, one of the biggest factors to consider when creating your packing list for Spain is the weather. Spain is quite a large country (by European standards, at least!) and it has a varied climate. During the summer season, the weather will be very different from the north to the south, and everything in between.
Northern Spain tends to be mild to warm during the summer; it’s lush and green in the northern regions and can rain even during the summer months.
Southern Spain gets roasting hot during the summer months, especially inland from the coast. In Andalusia it’s common to see highs of 45 degrees.
Spain in the Winter
At this time of year, the temperature in Spain seems to depend more on the altitude than anything. Madrid, 600m up, can get bitterly cold and sometimes even sees snow during the winter, whereas the sea-level cities like Seville, Barcelona or Valencia generally stay more mild. I wouldn’t say any of Spain gets warm weather all year round, but then I am very sensitive to the cold!
The best part about Spain in the winter is that, in most places, it stays sunny, even when it’s cold. Madrid is one of the sunniest cities in Europe, with over 300 days of sunshine per year.
Spain Packing List
I’ve broken this Spain packing list down into different sections, based on how I pack. Even when I’m only taking hand luggage, in my head my “hand luggage” is my smaller bag with all of my essentials in it. In my larger carry-on bag, I pack anything I won’t need during the trip so that I don’t have to be opening and re-packing it throughout the journey.
What to Pack in Your Hand Luggage
- Money/wallet/cards, however you like to keep them
- Passport
- Boarding passes and any other travel information you need
- Information about health/travel insurance
- Reusable water bottle (click here for my favourite one on Amazon)
- Phone charger
- Plug socket converter
- Power bank (this is the one I use)
- A book / Kindle / any other entertainment for the journey
- Sunglasses
Clothes to Pack for Spain
- Underwear
- Socks
- Bras, if you use them
- Tank tops (more during summer, less during winter)
- T-shirts
- A linen shirt or over shirt
- Long-sleeved shirts or t-shirts
- A light jacket
- A heavier jacket (winter only)
- A light rain jacket (for winter or for the north)
- 2 pairs of comfortable shoes (but wear one for the journey)
- Flip flops or sliders
- Trousers (more for winter, less for summer)
- Shorts (more for summer, less for winter)
- Clothes to sleep in
- Workout clothes (if you plan to use them)
- Bathing suits (I’d always bring at least one, even if you don’t plan to go to the beach)
Toiletries to Pack for Spain
Of course, what you take in your toiletries bag will depend on your personal needs, but here’s a list you can add to or delete from as you wish!
I usually separate my liquids and take them in my own clear plastic bag to make it easier to go through airport security.
🛍 Get the toiletries bag I use here
Liquids
- Toothpaste
- Shampoo
- Conditioner
- Face wash
- Body wash
- Moisturiser
- Any face serums, creams or masks
- Gel or creme to style your hair
- Deodorant
- Sunscreen
- Lip balm
- Perfume
- Insect repellent & cream for bug bites (depending on your planned activities)
Non-liquids
- Toothbrush
- Makeup
- Hair brush
- Hair ties/scrunchies/bands
- Cotton pads
- Razor
- Tweezers
- Nail scissors
- Tampons/pads/cup
- Any prescription medications
- Painkillers (I always carry them with me, just in case)
Additional Items to Pack for Spain
- A sunhat or a winter hat (again depending on the season)
- Bath towel (only if you’re staying in hostels)
- A beach towel (if you’re going to the beach)
- Something to hold your dirty laundry
- Snacks
- A laptop or tablet
- Hair dryer and or straighteners
- Glasses
FAQs About Packing for Spain
What type of clothes should I pack for Spain in the summer?
For summer trips, especially in southern Spain, pack light and breathable clothing, as temperatures can soar, reaching up to 45°C. Shorts, tank tops, lightweight dresses, and linen shirts are ideal. Bring a hat and sunscreen for sun protection, as well as a light jacket if you’re visiting northern areas where it can be cooler.
Is it better to travel with a backpack or a suitcase in Spain?
A backpack is ideal if you’re moving around frequently or exploring cities with cobblestone streets. However, if you plan to stay in one place or prefer a more organized packing experience, a rolling suitcase may be more convenient. Just be prepared for uneven pavements!
How do I pack for both hot and cold regions in Spain?
If your itinerary includes both warm and cooler regions, layers will be your best friend. Pack lightweight, breathable items for warmer areas and bring a warmer jacket or sweater for the north or mountainous regions.
Do I need to bring an adapter for Spain?
Yes, Spain uses the Type C and F plugs, with a standard voltage of 230V. If you’re coming from outside of Europe, you’ll probably need a plug adapter.
Can I pack light and only take carry-on luggage to Spain?
100%! Packing light is ideal if you’re traveling on budget airlines or plan to use public transportation often. Besides, Spain has a wide variety of stores if you need to buy extra toiletries or clothes.
Conclusion
Remember to consider the season, regions you’ll be visiting, and your planned activities. A well-thought-out packing list will keep you comfortable and prepared, whether you’re hiking in the north, lounging on a beach in the Canary Islands, or exploring Madrid’s bustling streets.