Our best advice is not to overthink packing for any trip. Unless you’re going off the grid, you can find whatever you need when you arrive. This article should provide a good starting point with recommendations about what pack for your trip. We include our favorite travel clothes, shoes, luggage, and accessories. The idea is to break down all the travel essentials for your trip to Japan and give you an idea of what you should carry in your suitcase or backpack.

What’s The Weather Like in Japan?

Let’s discuss the weather! You may be surprised that Japan’s climate varies significantly from north to south. The country is an archipelago with over 3,000 islands and islets, stretching from a high latitude in the north to a low latitude in the south. As it is a series of islands, the surrounding sea currents significantly impact the country’s climate.

The weather on the northern island of Hokkaido is dominated by snow in the winter, especially at resorts like Niseko and Furano, and mild summer temperatures are present. The island of Honshu, Japan’s largest and most populous island, has a humid subtropical climate with all four seasons. Further south on the Ryukyu islands, see nearly tropical weather and temperatures.

Nearly all of Japan sees a lot of precipitation. It is influenced by monsoon circulation. Cold currents from the Northwest drive winter in winter storms. While in the summer, humid winds from the tropical southeast blow over the islands. This is most notable during early summer and autumn when Japan receives typhoons and torrential rains.

Japan experiences a lot of precipitation throughout the year, which explains why nearly 70% of the country is forested. Yes, it’s not all cityscape. The natural parts of Japan are breathtaking, and we highly recommend a hiking trip along the Kumano Kodo! So bringing a rain jacket or umbrella for travel is a good idea.

It’s best to check the weather a week before your trip to get an idea of what the temperatures will be like during your trip. Also, make sure to check all of the regions you plan to visit. Japan is a vast country, and the weather in the north may be much different than in the south.

The Essential Documents To Pack

• Passport – This is obvious, but you won’t make it far without a passport.
• Credit Cards – We use several travel credit cards offering purchase protection, rewards, and no foreign transaction fees.
• Visa – Make sure you have a visa if required.
• Driving License – If you plan to rent a car, you will need your driver’s license, plus it never hurts to have a second form of I.D.
• IDP – If you’d like to drive a car in Japan, it is required to have an IDP. This is a booklet with multiple language translations of your license. It must contain a Japanese translation.
• JR Pass—If you plan on traveling extensively around Japan, a JR Pass is crucial to saving money!

What Luggage To Bring To Japan

Hardshell Suitcase

Travel Backpack

I have two bag recommendations for a trip to Japan. You can opt for a traditional hardshell suitcase with four wheels or a travel backpack. Suitcases with four wheels are best as the ability to roll sideways down the aisle of a train or a sidewalk makes life a lot easier. Japan has an excellent rail network that makes it easy to travel.

We prefer hardshell as it does a better job at protection and security. Our favorite hardshell suitcase is the Delsey Helium Aero 25″. Travel backpacks are great for young backpackers, digital nomads, or minimalists! They are also great if you want to save on any checked bag fees your air carrier may charge.

Peak Design Packing Cubes are phenomenal at organizing and separating dirty clothes. They also make one of our favorite bags, the Peak Design Travel Backpack. It’s a smart bag with a minimalist style that works for everyone, from young backpackers to modern business travelers.

What To Wear In Japan

What you wear in Japan depends on your plans, destination, and season. The weather and your clothes depend a lot on the season. Budget and travel style have a significant impact, too — a well-heeled traveler staying in luxury hotels will have a much different packing list than a backpacker.

No one-size-fits-all rules exist, as a snowboarding trip to Niseko is wildly different from photographing the cherry blossoms or sightseeing in Kyoto. We suggest casual clothing with comfortable footwear. The key to packing is clothes that can serve multiple purposes.

We like to pack clothes in classic, versatile colors that allow us to mix and match outfits. You can adjust to various weather and climates by throwing in some layers. A traveler should be able to dress for almost any setting or weather if done right.

It’s also important to always pack a shell jacket, as rain and snow are frequent throughout the year. You’ll almost always see rain or snow if you visit the country for over two weeks. Finally, don’t forget to pack some athletic clothes for a Japan trip! There are many amazing adventures and outdoor activities to enjoy around the region.

It’s good etiquette to cover your legs and shoulders when visiting temples and shrines. The Japanese would never tell a foreigner to cover up, but it’s more of a sign of respect by the traveler. If you have plans to visit religious sites in Japan, pack some appropriate clothing.

The Japanese are well known for their boldness in fashion. Street styles from Japan and their adoption of kawaii and cosplay have global impacts. It’s a place where you can take some fashion risks. This is most pronounced in young Japanese, who face less social pressure to conform, as most Japanese dress neatly and conservatively. You’re going to see some outlandish and fun outfits in Japan, primarily in cities like Osaka and Tokyo.

Generally, most people visit Japan in the summer, so prepare for hot and humid temperatures. Below we share the staples and make some recommendations on our personal favorites. Please consider this a guideline as we recommend everyone dress and pack to match their style.

T-Shirt or V Neck

A classic tee will never go out of style. We suggest sticking with solid colors like black, white, or grey. We recommend you keep it simple when it comes to tees. Our favorite color is a light heather grey as it’s easy to stain white. We love the quality and ease of ordering from Bombas if you’re after a classic cotton tee.

However, a Merino wool shirt is a worthy investment and one of the best pieces of travel clothes. Wool shirts stay fresh longer and do an excellent job at temperature management. I’ve tested a lot of wool shirts out, and my favorite for travel so far is from Unbound Merino. Men can also check out Western Rise for their StrongCore Merino Tee.

Travel Shorts

You’ll want some shorts for your Japan trip if it’s summertime. Shorts are also easy to pack as they take up less space in your luggage and can be easily washed.

I like to pack two or three pairs for versatility, such as gym shorts, Bermuda shorts, and technical travel shorts. Shorts are one of those items I find acceptable as cheap cotton items. We’ve tested a lot of travel shorts out and only been impressed by a handful.

Our recommendations for men’s shorts are the Western Rise Evolution, Quicksilver Amphibian, and Outlier OG Freeway. Recommendations for women include the Lululemon Cinchable Shorts, prAna Elle Short, Vuori Dash, prAna Kanab, and Patagonia Baggies.

Activewear

Many outdoor activities in Japan require some activewear to enjoy. So, when you’re wondering what to wear in Japan, consider packing at least one active outfit. Not to mention, it’s great to stay in shape while traveling. Several daypacks for travel will work nicely on a hike or in the city.

As for the shoes, we’re pretty loyal to the ultra trail running Salomon Speedcross shoes, but we recommend the more versatile Adidas Ultraboost for everything else. Regarding clothing, we love Vuori Shorts and Outdoor Research Echo Shirts. Pack a sports bra if you like one for activities; our favorites are from Handful (*Use code TWP20 for 20% off! ).

Jeans

Jeans are a fashion staple but aren’t the best packing or most comfortable travel pants. However, travelers have options such as DU/ER jeans. The organic cotton jeans look sharp, but a subtle blend of polyester and spandex allows the jeans to stretch and resist wrinkles.

Fit is exceptional, with a slim fit throughout the leg. You can comfortably wear the jeans on long travel days without any discomfort. Thanks to the synthetic blend, they’re great for lengthy trips as there is no need to wash the jeans.

We find the summer to be too hot for jeans in Japan, but we love wearing them in the other three seasons. Most notable with pants and jeans is that they should be worn when visiting temples and shrines as a sign of respect.

Travel Pants

A pair of chinos or travel pants are great for traveling around Japan. Our first choice is a reliable pair of “travel pants” with synthetic materials. These pants are often stain-resistant, dry quickly, weigh less, remain fresh for multiple wears, and are more comfortable than traditional pants or chinos.

We love that these technical pants, previously only made for hiking, now resemble chinos. It’s a classic pant that goes with a sweater, dress shirt, t-shirt, or blouse. When choosing a color, try to match the destination and season. However, light tan pants tend to be the most versatile.

For women, we suggest the Kuhl Freeflex Pants for outdoor adventures and the Everlane Utility Barrel Pants for a more stylish city/town look. Men should check out the KUHL Renegade Rock Pants for outdoor adventures and the Western Rise Evolution 2.0 Pants for everything else.

Wool Sweater

Sweaters are a great travel outfit staple. They’re comfortable, stylish, and warm. This very much depends on the season and destination. However, for most of Honshu in the winter, a warm sweater is enough to survive comfortably. I have several sweaters, but my favorites are organic materials like wool or alpaca. It’s become my favorite travel souvenir, and I treasure my Scottish wool and Peruvian alpaca sweaters.

Shell Jacket

No matter the season, a rain jacket is crucial for traveling around Japan (and the rest of the world). Japan receives a lot of precipitation every season, particularly in early summer and fall. We suggest a hard-shell hiking jacket for the outdoors/hiking.

They are lightweight, durable, packable, waterproof, and windproof. Any rain jacket will do, but the top-dollar ones designed for the outdoors will hold up and help in inclement weather. They also do an exceptional job at blocking the wind, which can be unrelenting.

Down Jacket

The Japanese wear a surprising amount of Western styles, particularly when it comes to outdoor wear. One of the most common staples is the down jacket, as it’s perfect for winter. Montbell is a Japanese outdoor brand, and you’ll see their jackets everywhere.

Like the Japanese, we’re big fans of packable down jackets. It is one of the most versatile travel items we carry in our luggage. It can handle cold winter weather when layered, but it’s also light enough to be worn on a cool evening. We find they’re handy in the shoulder seasons around spring and fall. Summers are hot, and unless you have plans to climb Mt. Fuji, you likely won’t need the warmth of a down jacket.

Swimsuit

We always pack a swimsuit. However, Japan is among the few countries we’ve never worn swimwear. Japanese culture has long loved communal bathing with thousands of onsens and sentos across the country. We worked on a guide to visiting the Japanese Sentos in Tokyo with the business association (no other reason we’d ever have a photo inside).

You can’t skip one of these cultural institutions on a trip to Japan. However, there is a caveat, and it is all done nude. Swimsuits are not permitted in onsens unless it’s private. We hope to check out Okinawa and some of the country’s beautiful beaches soon. For a fantastic women’s swimsuit brand, we recommend Londre and Carve Designs. They make high-quality swimsuits for women. Vuori makes fantastic lightweight Cruise Board Shorts in various prints and colors.

Wool Underwear

You can never have enough underwear or socks. We love wool undergarments on the road as they dry quicker and have antimicrobial qualities. This means they stay fresh longer and keep you more comfortable. After a lot of testing, our favorites are from Icebreaker. They make several versions and cuts for men and women to match personal tastes.

What’s best about wool underwear is that they can be washed in a bathroom sink at night only to dry by morning the next day, so you could feasibly travel with only one or two pairs of underwear. They are pricey, so we can’t don’t recommend everyone replace every pair. We still travel around with several regular cotton undies, but a couple of pairs of these for dirty clothes emergencies come in handy.

Wool Socks

We’ve learned to love our feet with a good pair of socks. You will want to keep your feet dry while walking around. Most importantly, wool socks stay fresh for several days as they have natural antimicrobial properties.

We travel with several pairs of wool socks on any trip. They make every style and cut, so finding the pair you need is easy. Our recommendations for socks are Darn Tough, Smartwool, and REI Co-op. If you still want some classic cotton socks, check out Bombas.

Comfortable Shoes

On every packing list for Japan should be a pair of comfortable shoes. Hitting the sidewalk and letting a city unfurl around you is one of the best ways to get familiar with a new city, especially in Japan. We love to wear our Allbirds, and consider them one of the best shoes for Japan!

Leather Boots

Regarding cool temperatures in Japan, we love to wear our Blundstones, as they are among the best shoes for Japan in the winter and fall. Women can wear them with chinos and a blouse, while men can pair them with just about anything from jeans to a suit. Boots are seasonal, and we’ll leave them at home for a trip to Japan in the summer.

Sunglasses

A stylish pair of sunglasses is an excellent addition to a travel outfit. Everyone owns at least one pair of sunglasses. However, it’s best to ensure they have UV protection for the health of your eyes. We always travel with two pairs of sunglasses as we’re pretty active.

A pair of Smith Optics for hiking and outdoor adventures and a couple of stylish sunglasses to wear at the beach or around town for the day. As sunglass snobs, we love the classic styles of Persol and Rayban. There are no better fashion accessories that are critical to your eye health. We cannot imagine traveling anywhere without a pair of sunglasses.

Men’s Packing List for Japan

Dress Shirt

Men should pack at least one or two dress shirts for a trip to Japan. We suggest you stick with a classic color like blue or white that will never go out of style. A solid dress shirt has more structure and feels appropriate for nice evenings. The type or age of the travelers doesn’t matter either, as almost everyone will find use in a dress shirt.

Since they aren’t worn during the heat of the day, a classic cotton dress shirt works. Spier & Mackay, Taylor Stitch, and Banana Republic dress shirts offer great value and look sharp. However, we love the versatility and casual comfort of the Western Rise Limitless Shirt — they specialize in fashionable travel clothes for men.

Women’s Packing List For Japan

Versatile Dress

I’m not suggesting you wear a Kimono, although it’s a great thing to do in Japan. However, a comfortable sundress for summer in Japan is a tremendous idea. Not only is it more comfortable, but it’s also cute. Ladies, it’s the perfect time to bust out your favorite summer dress.

Some great websites for dress shopping are Salty Crush and Free People. My only recommendation is no ridiculous gowns that you see on social media. Dresses are a travel staple and occupy almost no room in your suitcase.

Romper, Playsuit, or Overalls

Rompers are our favorite travel outfits for women because they’re stylish, comfortable, and practical. You can’t go wrong here, and we suggest throwing at least one or two rompers in your suitcase for Japan. They’re great for a night and super cute for casual days. We love Patagonia’s Fleetwith Romper and prAna Railay for travel, but you can shop on Free People and Lulus for more great options.

Don’t Forget To Pack Items For Japan

Japan Guidebook

As Lonely Planet Pathfinders who used to go on assignments for the guidebook company, we love to have a physical guidebook when traveling. We spend enough time attached to our phones in everyday life and planning our trips. Once we reach a destination like Japan, we put the phone away and pick up a guidebook to help with our trip.

Daypack

You’ll need something to stash your photography gear, hand sanitizers, papers, phones, and anything else for a full day out when traveling. We’ve tested out a ton of daypacks and backpacks over the years, and our favorite is from Peak Design. As photographers, we always need a daypack for travel, but we leave it in the hotel room most days when exploring Japan.

Toiletry Bag

We suggest you keep your toiletries organized and separated from your clothes. It almost feels like a toiletry bag is essential for any trip. Plus, it’s not uncommon to find extremely small or cramped bathrooms in Japan.

Buying a hanging toiletry bag is an excellent option if you are limited on counter space. This bag style tends to have a better organization system with various sections for storage than the traditional option. We love the Peak Design Wash Pouch. It contains a hidden hook to hang and features terrific organization.

Water bottle

It is important to travel with fresh water in hand as it is easy to get dehydrated when out. We like to use insulated stainless steel water bottles because they keep drinks cool. Carrying a water bottle is great for the environment as it reduces plastic waste.

Our favorite is the Grayl GeoPress purifier bottle. A purifier helps save money, reduces plastic waste, and guarantees that our water is safe and free of viruses and other waterborne illnesses. Purification is unnecessary in Japan, but we always have it for an impromptu trip to somewhere more remote, and they’re great for hiking.

Packing Cubes

Packing cubes are phenomenal for the organization of any backpack or suitcase. They are one of those packing essentials that should be in every bag as they keep all of your clothes and toiletries organized. Cubes also keep clothes folded and protect them from wrinkles. Our favorite packing cubes are currently from Peak Design. It’s a slick design, and each cube has a divider to separate clean from dirty clothes. This saves the need for additional cubes and makes organization easier.

Jewelry Case

We don’t travel with all our best jewelry for obvious reasons, but that doesn’t mean we don’t travel with any jewelry in Japan. We love having necklaces, bracelets, rings, and earrings when we dress up on the road. A travel jewelry box is the best way to keep this jewelry safe and organized!

Passport Wallet

A travel passport wallet is an affordable travel essential. Your passport is a vital travel document you must carry for a decade. Protect your passport in a wallet to ensure its longevity and save the headache of replacing it. Several options can protect the passport or replace your wallet. We recommend a great wallet from Herschel Supply Co.

Ear Plugs

These are small but essential travel necessities for Japan as they can be crucial to your sleep. Whether flying in business class or a hostel, a good pair of earplugs will help you sleep. You also never know if you may have noisy neighbors or have a room on the ground. When you need them, they are a lifesaver.

Electronics To Pack For Japan

Kindle Paperwhite

While I love having a good real book when I travel, sometimes it’s just not practical because of the weight — keep them at home. If you plan to island-hop, you’ll want to pack fairly light. A Kindle is an essential travel accessory for travelers who love to read. As much as we love an actual book, they are too heavy and take up too much room in my suitcase. We recently upgraded to the Kindle Paperwhite and love it. It’s small, has touchscreen functions, and has a backlight to read at night without a harsh glare.

Anker Power Bank

I love traveling with a power bank to ensure my electronics never die. I usually don’t need to use it on long flights as some new international flights provide entertainment systems with USB ports! (Always make sure your charging cable is handy when boarding the plane.)

We also find a charging point during layovers, but getting to a new city without your hotel reservations and map can be a significant pain. I recommend purchasing this power bank because it’s a great value with solid reviews.

You Need This on Your Japan Packing List

Travel Insurance

We never travel without travel insurance with Heymondo. With all the risks of travel in a foreign country and insurance coverage, we never have to worry about a good health plan. Heymondo offers incredible flexibility and great plans! You never know if the worst could happen while you’re abroad, and your insurance plan at home often will not cover medical emergencies abroad. Having peace of mind with a good backup plan helps us sleep at night.

From exploring ancient ruins to lounging on pristine beaches, Greece offers a diverse range of activities, each calling for a specific attire. Whether it’s breathable linen shirts, flowy sundresses, or comfortable walking shoes, this guide has all the recommendations to ensure visitors are both stylish and feeling good while embarking on their Grecian adventures.

We were out of our element the first time we landed in Santorini. We were on a European backpacking trip, and little did we know how posh and romantic the island was for travelers. Now, we make annual trips to Greece and safely say we know how to pack our bags and have mastered what to wear in Greece.

Quick Tips For Packing For Greece

Greece is an easy destination to pack for, as the weather doesn’t change much throughout the day. The Greek Isles are relaxed, but you’ll still want to pack some nice clothes for trendy islands like Santorini, Mykonos, Paros, or Hydra.

• Linen shirts are standard and rarely feel out of place. Men can wear these shirts every day in the summer.
• Pack light if you plan to island-hop, as the ferries often require a lot of moving. You’re more likely to regret packing too much than too little.
• Mesh/breathable packing cubes help separate damp and dirty clothes from clean ones.
• Sun protection, whether sunblock, hats, or UPF clothing, is always a good idea.
• Adventure clothes such as hiking footwear and active clothes are great for activities.
• Wear lightweight clothes as the heat and sun can be intense in the summer.
• Swimsuits and beach clothes are the most worn items in a suitcase.

What Luggage To Bring For Greece?

Hardshell Suitcase

Travel Backpack

I have two bag recommendations for a trip to Greece. You can opt for a traditional hardshell suitcase with four wheels or a travel backpack. Our favorite hardshell suitcase is the Delsey Helium Aero.

Travel backpacks are great for young backpackers, digital nomads, or minimalists! If paying for taxis or car rentals makes you hesitant, you should book accommodation near public transport or have a backpack. Our favorites are the Peak Design Travel Backpack and the NOMATIC Backpack, but read about the best backpacks for Europe if you’d like to learn more.

What to Wear in Greece

Linen Shirt

There is probably no look more synonymous in Greece than a linen shirt. It’s our favorite item to wear when visiting Greece. Linen is as practical as it is stylish. It’s great as it tends to dry faster, feel lighter, and cope with sweat better than its cotton counterparts. The fabric has a long history with Greece and was even worn by the ancient Greeks several millennia ago.

Pair a linen shirt with sandals, shorts, jeans, or shoes, or even go barefoot. It will always work. A versatile piece of clothing that looks good for both sexes and works at the beach or a restaurant. It’s tough to find decent linen shirts online since you can’t test them out before buying, but I love the quality of Everlane’s linen shirts.

Relaxed Pants

Greeks care about their appearance, but their dress is generally more casual than in Western Europe. We love to wear a pair of relaxed pants in a light neutral color on the islands. There are various options, but we prefer natural fibers such as hemp or linen that handle the heat well and have a classic look.

Tasha’s favorite pair of pants is prAna’s Fernie Beach Pant, but they often go out of stock as they are so popular. The pants are airy and made from a Fair Trade TENCEL fabric, but you’ll have to keep checking their website. Free People has some fantastic flowy beach pant selections as well.

For men, Prana makes the excellent Vaha Pant. They are perfect for beach destinations and blend well for a stylish beach look with a linen shirt. They’re lightweight and made from hemp, lasting for multiple wears without a wash.

Travel Shorts

Greece gets hot in the summer. You’ll want some shorts for your trip. They’re also easy to pack as they take up less space in your luggage and can be easily washed. We love to have a pair of shorts for days out exploring ancient ruins, hikes, or early morning runs. With the hot temperatures,

Men shouldn’t worry about being informal. Greek men have no problem wearing shorts because pants would be almost unbearable during the day come July. We like travel shorts made from a synthetic material as they does a better job at handling heat.

We have two recommendations for travel shorts. Men can check out the Western Rise Evolution Shorts; they’re super comfortable, lightweight, and have fantastic features like zippered security pockets. Tash loves her Lululemon Cinchable Waist Shorts. Wear whatever suits your style, but we recommend they do not involve cargo pockets.

Swimsuit

You’re going to Greece! A swimsuit is a must unless you’re on some of the famous nudist beaches. If you’re heading to the Mediterranean, the number one thing you need is a swimsuit! We like to travel in two swimsuits to know we always have an extra dry one.

When it comes to bathing suits, we have two great recommendations. For a fantastic women’s swimsuit brand, we recommend Londre. They make high-quality swimsuits that are stylish yet supportive. Picture Organics makes fantastic lightweight Cruise Board Shorts in various prints and colors. They’re super comfortable, quickly dry, and the cut is perfect. We do not like board shorts that are too long or loose, as they look sloppy.

Warm Fleece

Greece gets cold, too! A warm fleece or lightweight jacket is perfect for that evening stroll along the sea. While the summer months generally remain warm all day and night, it’s still nice for long-haul flights. You’ll likely face cool weather if you visit Greece in the shoulder seasons. For those days, warm clothes are nice to have for chilly evenings.

Patagonia’s Better Sweater is our favorite fleece for the beach. It has a classic, relaxed cut with a timeless look for a walk on the beach or an evening bonfire. It’s a double-sided fleece that provides plenty of warmth while remaining soft and comfortable.

Sunglasses

The white-washed buildings of Greece see plenty of sunshine, so a stylish pair of sunglasses is a great addition to an outfit. Everyone owns at least one pair of sunglasses. However, it’s best to ensure they have UV protection for the health of your eyes.

We always travel with two pairs of sunglasses, one for activities and one for style. Smith Optics Lodown 2.0 makes excellent active sunglasses that look sharp enough to wear around a posh seaside town. If you’ve seen the photos in this post, you likely noticed one of these sunglasses. For a more formal and stylish brand, we love Persol and Rayban for their timeless style.

Sandals

Sandals are meant only for the beach in Europe, especially for men. However, with all of the gorgeous beaches in Greece, sandals are acceptable beach attire everywhere, and they’re far more comfortable on the sand. For nights out on the town, we advise men to wear shoes. However, stylish sandals are great for women, no matter the time. Greece is very laid-back, and most islands cater to tourists in the hot summer so you won’t feel out of place.

We both travel with sandals from Olukai that have lasted for years. They are sandals with leather accents and feel stylish enough. They’re super comfortable, too, and they get us around the beach. Women should also check out the Sanuk Yoga Sling for an affordable, lightweight, stylish sandal.

Travel Underwear

It would be best to pack several pairs of sports/travel underwear. Generally, we’ll pack five to seven pairs of underwear for a typical trip. We recommend several pairs of underwear made from wool or synthetic material.

These materials are antimicrobial, so they stay fresh longer and can dry quickly overnight if you hand wash them. It’s best not to wear your typical cheap cotton undies, especially for women. Women’s hygiene can be delicate, so antimicrobial undies are lifesaving when you’re active in the heat.

Simple Sneaker

For everything outside of the beach, a simple sneaker is great! Many brands make light and airy sneakers that aren’t overly flashy, match a wide range of outfits for Greece, comfortable for all-day wear, and remain cool in hot weather. We’ve tried various travel shoes over the years and love Allbirds Tree Runner in warm weather.

Women’s Packing List Items for Greece

Tank Top

A few comfortable tank tops and shirts are a must-have when considering what to wear in Greece. They’re perfect for the hot Greek summer and can be worn under a blouse or alone with a skirt or capris. Packaging solid colors that can pair with everything is always a good idea. We recommend you pick up new ones if they’re a little old before your trip. That way, they look fresh and aren’t pilling. The ones in the photo above are off Amazon and super comfortable.

Flowy Skirt

When planning my Greece outfits, there is nothing higher on my packing list than a flowy skirt. I wore the yellow one in the photo above on so many nights out in Greece, and it was always the perfect item that went with anything! The one above is from Free People, but they sell out of it often, so you’ll have to browse their site. There are similar flowy skirts on Amazon in different colors.

Cute Summer Dress

When thinking about what to wear in Santorini, or any other Greek island, a Greek summer dress is essential. A loose-flowing dress is a great wardrobe choice when walking around the islands or cute seaside towns. Unless it’s winter or you’re in Athens, we’d leave the jeans behind as they’re heavy, restrictive, and hot in the sun.

I love to wear a cute summer dress in Greece during the summer months. Choose a classic dress like an exposed shoulder top or a slip dress, and go with light colors for the classic Greek Isles look. You can also opt for a more bohemian beach style, which I love! My favorite dresses come from Salty Crush, like the one above at a vineyard in Corfu.

Romper/Playsuit

Rompers are our favorite travel outfits for women because they’re stylish, comfortable, and practical. You can’t go wrong here, and we suggest throwing at least one or two rompers in your suitcase for Greece. They’re great for a night and super cute for casual days. We love Patagonia’s Fleetwith Romper and prAna Railay for travel, but you can shop on Free People for more great options.

Beach Cover Up

When thinking about what to pack for Greece you cannot forget about a cover up. A cover-up is one of those vacation clothes you should always travel with. Not only do they look cute, but they will also protect you from the sun’s harsh rays. Many establishments don’t allow beachgoers to wear just a swimsuit, so a cover-up is essential when heading to a taverna near the beach.

Black Flats

A pair of black flats is always great to have in a suitcase. They’re stylish and comfortable and take up minimal luggage space. Avoid heels; many towns in Greece have uneven streets, and you don’t want to break an ankle trying to look good. Just let the locals impress you with their skills of walking in heels.

Sunhat

If you are considering what to pack for Greece, I recommend picking up a stylish beach hat! Try to keep it in a practical size that travels well and doesn’t crease in a suitcase. If you pack a large hat, it will always be in your way, and you’ll likely ditch it by the end of your trip.

Sports Bras

Greece has several great hikes and adventure activities. I always bring sports bras when I’m traveling. It’s easy to forget to bring a sports bra as you might not be headed to the gym, but they’re tremendous for active or hot summer days. I love sports bras from Handful! Of course, you should pack your usual undergarments like bras and underwear; it’s easier to forget a sports bra. *Use code TWP20 for 20% off on Handful!

What to Wear In Greece For Men

T-Shirt

One of our favorite menswear companies, Western Rise, creates tremendous travel shirts. They utilize synthetic and natural materials for travel apparel that holds up to the rigors of travel. The X Cotton Tee looks like a classic cotton tee, but the synthetic materials in the fabric allow it to stretch and resist odors. However, their latest wool shirt, the StrongCore Merino Tee, brings all the advantages of natural wool. Wool is a worthy investment and makes for one of the best pieces of travel clothes. Wool shirts stay fresh longer and do an excellent job at temperature management.

Dress Shirt & Chinos

You’d look pretty ridiculous wearing a graphic T-shirt or a flannel out to a nice meal in Greece. The islands and the mainland have excellent restaurants and a great culinary scene. Men in Greece are known for their style and always look clean-cut for a night out.

We suggest every man travels with at least one nice outfit that fits their style. Pair awesome travel pants from Western Rise or Bluffworks with a simple dress shirt, or wear a travel suit. A nice outfit is always a solid choice of what to wear in Greece for men.

Loafers

Loafers are a good shoe to have in the summer for a more relaxed look by the seaside. It’s perfect for a night out at a local Taverna while you listen to live music. Although, I’ve gotten away with a simple sneaker for almost all settings around Greece! The important thing with footwear is that it looks clean and simple.

Beard Trimmer

Greek men love their beards, seriously. Taking good care of their hygiene is very important, and you’ll find most men with trimmed beards and clean necklines. I always love to travel with a facial trimmer, which helps me manage my facial hair. While you’re at it, I’d suggest getting a fresh haircut before you leave on your trip.

Accessories to Pack for Greece

Beach Tote

You’ll likely want a beach bag for your beach days. This is to throw in anything like towels, a book, a speaker, sunglasses, snacks, and sunscreen. Alternatively, we often use our daypacks for trips to the beach. However, a classic tote that everyone has in their closet also helps for shopping trips at the local market. They also travel well as they can fold flat and lie in your luggage.

Leaf Shave Safety Razor

Alright, I know this is not a Greek clothing item, but I wanted to mention it as I love this travel razor and bring it with me on all my trips! Leaf Shave razors are an excellent option for the bathroom to help reduce waste. Never buy those cheap plastic razors again. Leaf Shave razors use recyclable steel razors that are compact and far more affordable than disposable razors.

Sunscreen

Skin cancer is for real! Don’t forget your SPF during the summer. We recommend ordering some online before leaving the house, as you need them underneath the sun. Most of the islands have limited imports and charge high prices.

The main brand we find around Greece is Nivea, and it’s not my favorite sunscreen, so we like to bring our own. We highly recommend getting an eco-friendly sun cream that does not contain harmful chemicals. They’re mineral-based and usually only cost a few dollars more to help protect our seas.

Travel Towel

We always recommend packing a travel towel when you’re on the road. Greece is no exception. If you head to the beach or want a hike, having a towel in your day bag never hurts. Consider a towel essential for your Greece packing list. A towel is one of those things you’ll likely regret not packing!

Greece Guidebook

We love to have a physical guidebook when traveling. We spend enough time attached to our phones in everyday life and planning our trips. Once we reach a destination like Greece, we put the phone away and pick up a guidebook to help with our trip.

Belt Bag

Do yourself a favor and get a travel belt bag for any trip! It’s become a travel essential as a great spot to stash everything you need for a day out without needing a clumsy bag or backpack. My favorite is the Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag; I’m not alone!

These small belt bags are perfect for going through the airport or venturing around a new island. Plus, they are much more secure than a traditional purse, as the way they wrap around the torso would detract from any pickpockets.

Toiletry Bag

Keeping your toiletries organized and separated from your clothes. It almost feels like a toiletry bag is essential for any trip. Plus, it’s not uncommon to find small or cramped bathrooms in Greece.

Buying a hanging toiletry bag is an excellent option if you are limited on counter space. This bag style tends to have a better organization system with various sections for storage than the traditional option. We love the Peak Design Wash Pouch. It contains a hidden hook to hang and features terrific organization.

Packing Cubes

Packing cubes are phenomenal for the organization of any backpack or suitcase. They are one of those packing essentials that should be in every bag as they keep all of your clothes and toiletries organized. Cubes also keep clothes folded and protect them from wrinkles.

Our favorite packing cubes are currently from Peak Design. It’s a slick design, and each cube has a divider to separate clean from dirty clothes. This saves the need for additional cubes and makes organization easier.

Jewelry Case

We don’t travel with all our best jewelry for obvious reasons, but that doesn’t mean we don’t travel with any jewelry in Greece. We love having necklaces, bracelets, rings, and earrings when we dress up on the road. A travel jewelry box is the best way to keep this jewelry safe and organized!

Passport Wallet

A travel passport wallet is an affordable travel essential. Your passport is a vital travel document you must carry for a decade. Protect your passport in a wallet to ensure its longevity and save the headache of replacing it. Several options can protect the passport or replace your wallet. We recommend a great wallet from Herschel Supply Co.

Travel Adaptor

A universal power adaptor is essential for any trip to Greece. We recommend picking up one before arriving in the country. Once in Greece, finding one that is not overpriced or poor quality can be challenging.

Also, I never want to be searching for an adaptor when I have just come off a long day of travel and need to plug in my computer. I want to have it with me and ready to go. We’ve tried a bundle of adapters, but this one from Ceptics has to be our favorite in our travels. It has multiple plugs and USB ports. It also works as a surge protector.

Kindle Paperwhite

While I love having a good real book when I travel, sometimes it’s just not practical because of the weight — keep them at home. If you plan to island-hop, you’ll want to pack pretty light. A Kindle is an essential travel accessory for travelers who love to read. As much as we love an actual book, they are too heavy and take up too much room in my suitcase. We recently upgraded to the Kindle Paperwhite and love it. It’s small, has touchscreen functions, and has a backlight to read at night without a harsh glare.

Power Bank

I love traveling with a power bank to ensure my electronics never die. I usually don’t need to use it on long flights as some new international flights provide entertainment systems with USB ports! (Always make sure your charging cable is handy when boarding the plane)

We also find a charging point during layovers, but getting to a new city without your hotel reservations and map can be a significant pain. I recommend purchasing this power bank because it’s a great value with solid reviews.

You Need This To Travel in Greece!

Travel Insurance

We never travel without travel insurance with Heymondo. With all the risks of travel in a foreign country and insurance coverage, we never have to worry about a good health plan. Heymondo offers incredible flexibility and great plans!

You never know if the worst could happen while you’re abroad, and your insurance plan at home often will not cover medical emergencies abroad. Having peace of mind with a good backup plan helps us sleep at night.

what To Wear in Greece to not look like a Tourist

Heavy Items

Leave heavy items at home like a hair dryer, books, and multiple shoes at home. You may find yourself carrying luggage up a flight of steps, on a ferry, or along a cobbled street, and you’ll regret any heavy luggage.

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Heels

Most of the towns and cities are set along hills with old cobbled streets or uneven surfaces. Unless you’re staying within a resort, you’ll just put your ankles at risk by wearing heels.

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Silly Travel Accessories

Don’t fall for silly travel accessories that are unnecessary expenses like a neck wallet, jet lag pills, charcoal tablets, or a female urination device. If you plan on investing in travel accessories, stick with the classics.

Useful investments for travel are quality luggage, packing cubes, a toiletry bag, a power bank, adapters, or noise-canceling headphones. We use eye masks and earplugs all the time as well!

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Heavy Boots

There are some great hikes in the mountains and hilly countryside in Greece, but you can leave the hiking boots at home. Instead, opt for a lightweight trail running shoe that eats up less space and can be used at the gym or run.

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The Kitchen Sink

It’s really easy to overpack when you’re getting ready for a trip. When you travel, you’ll often gravitate towards only a few staple items. This means you end up reaching for the same items over and over because they’re the most practical, fitting, or stylish.

Try to think about what you wear in a week for everyday life. Also, don’t forget Greece has plenty of shops and stylish boutiques for shopping.

READ MORE GREECE TRAVEL TIPS

I hope you enjoyed this Greece packing list! Hopefully, you found it useful. Here are a few relevant articles for more travel around Greece!

• The Best Things to do in Paros
• The Best Things to do in Naxos
• The Best Things to do in Crete
• The Best Things to do in Santorini
• The Best Things to do in Rhodes
• The Best Things to do in Mykonos
• The Best Things to do in Corfu

However, the Egyptian dress code can get confusing. After all, it’s a hot desert country, but it’s also a conservative, predominately Muslim country. That means packing for Egypt can become difficult. That’s okay – we’re here to help with this Egypt packing list and tips.

Tips On Packing for Egypt

How conservative is Egypt?

When thinking about how to dress in Egypt, it’s best to research beforehand. Egypt is a predominately Muslim country. I saw every kind of dress code in Egypt. Cairo seemed more liberal in the younger neighborhoods, but most people dress conservatively in Giza and other parts.

Tourists seemed to have their dress code at the main sites. Places like the Temple of Karnack, the Great Pyramids, and the Temple of Philae saw shorts, tight pants, high heels, and short dresses. However, as soon as you step out of these tourist sites and into the actual streets, you’ll see women in hijabs and abayas and men in traditional thobes.

We recommend you dress to match the culture as a guest in their country. We view it as a sign of respect. It means no short shorts, short dresses, or cleavage showing. If you do decide to dress provocatively, you’ll feel more out of place than if you didn’t.

I wore a modest knee-length dress that showed a bit of my upper chest (not cleavage – just chest), with my long blonde hair down, and I felt entirely out of place with people staring at me while walking around neighborhoods in Cairo. The exception to this is at beach resorts along the Red Sea. Here, it’s perfectly acceptable to wear bathing suits, cover-ups, and shorts.

Should I Pack formal clothes?

Of course, you don’t need to dress super fancy when considering what to wear to Egypt. However, if you plan to sail on a Nile Cruise, I suggest you pack at least two “smart” outfit choices. On our cruise, we noticed people dressed up at night. The question all depends on your plans, but in general, most people would benefit from at least one nice outfit. If you plan a nice resort or cruise, add it to the list!

When is the best time to visit Egypt?

Egypt is a hot place year-round, but sometimes it will be much more comfortable than when it is boiling, and all you’ll want is the AC. The high season in Egypt corresponds with cooler weather from mid-October to March.

April is when things get warmer, and May is when Egypt starts to see some properly warm temperatures. The average temperature is 25°C, but the highs can soar up to 32°C. Come July and August, you will wish for constant heat relief. Temperatures can easily reach 34°C with an average of 28°C.

There’s hardly any rain, and the temperature barely drops below 22°C. You can read about our recommendation for the best time to visit Egypt. Egypt is always going to be hot, so prepare for that. The good news is that the humidity isn’t terrible, and if you head towards the Red Sea, you’ll see cooler weather.

Women’s Clothes For Egpyt

Sundress

Try wearing a cute dress in Egypt to walk around the ancient sites and snap photos. I loved wearing light and flowy dresses in Egypt, but they needed not to be too revealing. I chose to wear dresses that were past the knee and showed no cleavage or shoulders.

One of my favorites for our trip is the Scotch & Soda Safari Dress. It’s perfect for Egypt and all-around Africa travel! I love that the dress is made specifically for travel and anti-wrinkle. You can also check out some recommendations I have for safari dresses.

Blouse or Tunic

A blouse or tunic is always good to pack in your suitcase. I would suggest bringing one nice and one casual that you don’t mind getting a little sweaty. You’ll want a top for an evening out exploring with tons of restaurants in Aswan, Cairo, or Luxor. You can see the blouse I wore above to the Pyramids, which felt appropriate for walking around Cairo.

Loose Pants

I love wearing relaxed pants when we travel. The Women’s Summit Pant is made from hemp and recycled polyester while offering 50+ UPF protection. They are perfect for Egypt as they’re comfortable and conservative. Harem or loose pants are fantastic, but we suggest packing cuffed pants as the city and tourist sites are often dusty — it’s a desert. Another suggestion is the Trailhead Pants (pictured in all these photos). They are super comfortable, durable, and eco-friendly.

Lightweight Long Sleeve Shirt

Egypt is a conservative country, and I prefer to cover up with a long-sleeved shirt when exploring cities, temples, and natural landscapes. It’s also a great form of sun protection, which can be very intense. Many of the temples have absolutely no shade.

We can recommend both men and women pack a linen shirt. They’re practical as they have anti-microbial properties and will stay fresh longer when you sweat. Best of all, linen shirts are a timeless look for any age or gender.

Tee Shirt

Almost every shirt you pack for Egypt should be loose and light. It gets bloody HOT in Northern Africa, and trust me, the last thing you will want to wear is a skin-tight blacktop. If you like to wear a classic T-shirt, consider wearing light colors like white or grey. I have recently fallen in love with Unbound Merino Wool Shirts. Wool shirts are superior to cotton shirts and make for phenomenal travel shirts.

Swimsuit

Just because you’re in a predominantly Muslim country doesn’t mean you can’t wear a bathing suit when you are on the coast. I would recommend bringing a few bathing suits to enjoy the Red Sea. My favorite bathing suits lately have been made by Andie Swim.

Sports Bra

This one is for the ladies! You do no need to push up bras while running around the desert. I travel with several sports bras and enjoy their comfort and support. With the hot Egyptian heat, they can get real sweaty fast here. So, having technical fabric underneath my clothes is appreciated. My absolute favorite sports bra brand is Handful! *Use code TWP20 for 20% off!

Men’s Clothes For Egypt

T-Shirt or V Neck

A classic tee will never go out of style. We suggest sticking with solid colors like tan, white, or grey. There’s also a v-neck option for a more stylish look, but it all depends on personal preference. Western Rise makes our favorite men’s shirts for travel. The X Cotton Tee is an excellent synthetic option, while the StrongCore Merino Tee has all of our favorite features of wool. Unbound Merino also makes some fantastic wool clothing for men.

Lightweight Long-Sleeved Shirt

Pack one synthetic and one linen shirt for a trip to Egypt. Synthetic shirts are great for days visiting dusty sites and hot days as they handle the heat and resist stains. Our safari shirt post has some great recommendations, but the Columbia Tamiami is our favorite. In contrast, a linen shirt is comfortable and looks great. They’re also practical as they have anti-microbial properties and will stay fresh longer when you sweat.

Pair a linen shirt with sandals, shorts, jeans, or shoes. It will always work. It’s versatile clothing that looks good for both sexes and works at the beach, museum, archaeological site, or restaurant. It’s tough to find decent linen shirts online, but I love the quality of Everlane Linen Shirts.

Travel Pants

Pack a pair of long pants made from lightweight material that offer decent ventilation. You can opt for hiking like the Sahara pants from REI pictured above. These pants are made from a lightweight synthetic material that breathes well in the heat. We recommend them when visiting in the off-season or shoulder months when daytime temperatures can still be scorching.

However, when the weather feels more manageable in the high season, I highly recommend travel pants from Western Rise. The Evolution Pants are the one pair of pants I pack in my luggage for every trip—they’re pretty much the perfect travel pants.

Swim Trunks

As we’ve shared, you’ll want a bathing suit if you visit the Red Sea. A lot of resorts and some cruises feature a pool, too. Cameron loves Quicksilver’s Amphibian shorts. The material looks like heavy cotton but is super lightweight and durable. Best of all, they look great on the beach or in town.

What To Wear In Egypt

Breathable Shoes

When thinking about what to wear in Egypt, we recommend you pack a pair of breathable shoes to walk around Egypt. The heat is intense. Wear breathable and comfortable shoes if you don’t want your feet to feel sweaty and stinky. City streets and archaeological sites can be dusty, so closed-toe shoes are a nice thing to wear.

Allbirds Tree Runners are excellent for their breathability and are among some of the best shoes to wear in Egypt. We love Allbirds, and their sustainable initiatives and shoes have lasted far longer than we would have guessed. Another great option for a lightweight travel shoe is Tropicfeel. They are excellent travel shoes that breathe well and double as water shoes.

Buff Headwear

I love my Buff Headwear band. I usually wear it to keep my hair back when it’s sweltering, but it’s also served its purpose as a scarf and wet rag. Buffs last for years and aren’t only helpful in Egypt. It’s been one of my top travel accessory investments ever!

A Scarf or Shawl

Egypt is a conservative country; you may want a headscarf for some religious sites. They are lightweight and easy to travel with, so there is no reason not to have a scarf or shawl. They are always good to have when you need to cover your head before walking into a Mosque.

I also like wearing scarves around my head while just walking around. As a blonde, I tend to get unwanted attention, and a scarf helps negate the attention. It also serves as an excellent protection from the desert winds and dust.

Travel Towel

We always recommend bringing a travel towel when you’re on the road; Egypt is no exception. You’ll often need your towel if you plan on staying in hostels or more budget accommodation. Also, if you head to the beach or want to take a hike, having a towel in your day bag never hurts. Consider a towel an essential Egypt packing list item.

The biggest complaint about travel towels is that they often feel nothing like the plush cotton towels at home and in hotels. However, with the PackTowl, you can forget about all of that because they set out to create a towel that mimics its cotton counterparts with the technical features of a travel towel.

Windbreaker

If you plan to go to some coastal cities, a light windbreaker jacket will help, especially in the winter. We suggest you travel with a lightweight windbreaker that can pack easily in a suitcase. We have a number of recommendations for travel jackets in this post.

Warm Fleece

Depending on the season, it can get cold in Egypt. Some nights in Cairo are cool, and a fleece jacket is a perfect thing to have. Consider a fleece a necessity on your Egypt packing list or at least one warm item. A great option for

The fleece has a classic, relaxed cut with a timeless look for a walk or sitting around an evening bonfire. It’s a double-sided fleece that provides plenty of warmth while remaining soft and comfortable. They also make an excellent gift for travelers as they’re a wardrobe staple.

A Good Sunhat

If you are considering what to pack for Egypt, I recommend picking up a stylish sunhat! You’ll want a hat for walking around in the hot sun all day. Unlike the traditional tarboosh above, I’d recommend a hat with a brim. If you’re traveling around much of Africa, we have some great recommendations on safari hats that serve many functions.

Sandals

You’ll find many people wearing sandals in Egypt, and they are great for beach destinations. You don’t want to live in your shoes your whole trip, and sandals are perfect for letting your feet breathe. A good pair of sandals is great for being comfortable on long travel days and under the hot sun of Northern Africa. The sandals in the photo are Sanuk Yoga Slings, some of my favorite sandals.

Sunglasses

Protect your eyes from the sun in Egypt since the sun reflects off the desert landscape. There are many sunglasses options; everyone should own at least a pair. It’s best to ensure they have UV protection for the health of your eyes.

Electronics to Bring to Egypt

Smartphone

We live in a digital age, and I hate to say this, but our phones are our lifelines in Africa. They are our maps, news sources, and online social lives, and yes, they are even used as our telephones to get around.

When we get to a new country, we always get a local SIM card and top it up with data and airtime to call the local numbers in case of emergencies. Data is cheap in Egypt, and it was nice to stay connected. Our phone helped us the most in Cairo, and we had to keep calling Ubers to get around. It would have become a pain if I was constantly searching for WiFi to complete the task. If you want to have your data sorted before you land, consider getting an eSIM.

Camera

A high-quality camera is an essential packing item for Egypt if you want some great shots during your vacation. We travel with many cameras, but the one we recommend to everyone who wants to take their photography seriously is the Fujifilm X-T5.

Please note that drones are not allowed in Egypt. We’ve heard many stories of travelers having them confiscated at points of entry, so we wouldn’t recommend taking any chances or messing with the Egyptian authorities.

Travel Adapter

Remember that Egypt uses the Europlug. Make sure you find a suitable adapter like the one I have to keep you charged. Otherwise, you may be paying for a cheap one once you land. I would recommend getting a good one online before arriving. Finding a decent travel adapter for a reasonable price can be tough when you’re likely already running low on juice.

Kindle Paperwhite

While I love having a good book when I travel, sometimes it’s impractical because of the weight. I’ve recently switched to a Kindle Paperwhite, which is small and compact, plus it has a backlight for reading at night without a harsh glare. The Paperwhite version is excellent as it mimics an actual book, and you can read it in the harsh sun while on the Red Sea.

Extra Items to Bring to Egypt

Hand Sanitizer

Walking around and participating in everyday activities in Egypt can get pretty dirty. It was also a reoccurring theme to find hand soap nowhere. You can’t go wrong with bringing some hand sanitizer and eco-friendly baby wipes in your bag.

Sunscreen

Skin cancer is for real! Don’t forget your SPF when traveling around Africa, as you’re close to the Equator. We recommend ordering some online before leaving the house as you will need it underneath the African sun, and it can be tough to find in grocery stores in Egypt (and when you do find it, the pricing will be insane).

We highly recommend getting an eco-friendly sun cream that does not contain harmful chemicals. They’re mineral-based and usually only cost a few dollars more to help protect our oceans. If you’re not going to swim in the sea, go with a reliable name brand.

Electrolyte Tablets

Dehydration in Egypt is a genuine concern. These electrolyte tablets should get your body back to normal should you fall sick. You may not need a whole bottle, so take a few in a bag or pill holder to save luggage space.

Snorkeling Equipment

The Red Sea is a snorkeler and divers paradise. If you’re into snorkeling, pick up fins, a mask, and a snorkel so you don’t get stuck paying to rent the setup every time. We travel around the world with our gear – I’m serious. My fins fit right in my suitcase, while the mask and snorkel sit comfortably in any backpack or bag.

Both of our masks are Aqualung masks, and we use them for snorkeling and diving. I have Oceanic fins and use them everywhere, while Cam loves Hammerhead’s brand for his underwater gear. Alternatively, if you’re staying at a resort or hotel on your vacation, check to see if they have free equipment you can use!

Daypack

Our daypack was handy every day in Egypt. You’ll need something to stash your photography gear, hand sanitizers, papers, phones, and anything else for a full day out when traveling. Our favorite daypack as photographers is the Peak Design Everyday Backpack or NOMATIC Backpack. Or you can check out some of our favorite day packs here.

Our Recommendation For Travel Insurance

We don’t travel without travel insurance, and neither should you. You never know what can happen in a foreign country, and it’s best to be prepared. HeyMondo offers excellent short and long-term travel insurance policies.

HeyMondo

Don’t worry if you are wondering what to wear in the Maldives like I was before arriving. The Maldives is a laid-back destination. A pair of flip-flops and sunscreen go a long way. However, just in case you need some guidance, I wanted to write this Maldives packing list to help.

What to Wear in The Maldives – Quick Tidbits

• The best time to travel to the Maldives is from November and April. High season really picks up in December and is pretty crazy until March. Monsoon season runs from May to October.
• The weather in the Maldives is pretty much perfect. Not too humid and not cold. You’ll be comfortable wearing your swimsuit and cover-up around during the day and a dress or beach clothes at night.
• The Maldives is a dream destination, but it does still see rain. Many resorts and hotels will provide you with an umbrella but it never hurts to have a rain jacket.
• A few of the Maldivian islands have great surf. If you’re a surfer remember your surf essentials.
• The Maldives is also one of the best places in the world to go diving. If you have a BCD, regulator, mask, fins and all the other essentials it could be worth bringing it with you. Dive shops will charge you more to rent their equipment.
• Please be conscious of the environment when applying sunscreen. Over-the-counter sunscreens containing harmful chemicals that are harmful to marine life. Respect the environment you are going to enjoy for vacation and only wear reef-safe sunscreen in the ocean.

What Luggage To Bring For Maldives?

Hardshell Suitcase

Travel Backpack

I have two bag recommendations for a trip to the Maldives. You can either opt for a traditional hardshell suitcase that has four wheels or a travel backpack.

Suitcases with four wheels are best as the ability to roll sideways through the airport or a sidewalk makes life a lot easier. We prefer hardshell as it does a better job at protection and security. Our favorite hardshell suitcase is the Delsey Helium Aero 25″.

Travel backpacks are great for young backpackers, digital nomads, or minimalists! They are also great if you want to save on any checked bag fees your air carrier might charge you. Our favorites are the Peak Design Travel Backpack and the NOMATIC Backpack.

Maldives Packing List Essentials

Reef Safe Sunblock

Before we dig into what to wear in Maldives, let’s talk sun protection. Few resorts in the Maldives will provide you with sunscreen, and they will charge a premium to purchase some at their gift shop. It’s best to make sure to bring yours from home to save time and money. No joke – we saw one place charging $60 for a bottle of Sun Bum!

We choose eco-friendly sunscreen when we go into the ocean. Traditional sunscreen contributes to the degradation of coral reefs. We’ve tested several natural sunscreens and love the Sun Bum line. Consider packing a travel-sized bottle if you’re traveling to the Maldives with a carry-on.

Sandals

Sandals or flip-flops are never a bad idea at beach destinations and should every traveler’s Maldives packing list. My favorite brand is Rainbow Sandals, as they last forever and are super comfortable once the leather forms to your foot.

My other favorite, more fashionable sandals for women at the beach are Plaka. Plaka sandals are handwoven women’s sandals with a stiff rubber sole that is good to wear anywhere in the summer. All of these sandals are hand-made and water-resistant, and have a great casual look. I have a pair in almost all of their styles! 

Lastly, I truly love my Sanuk Yoga Sling sandals. The bottom of the shoe is made out of yoga mat material and is super cushy. Walking on these sandals feels like walking on a yoga mat!

Swimsuit

A swimsuit is a staple men’s and women’s travel clothing item, and you’re definitely going to need a bathing suit for your Maldives trip. You’ll likely spend most of your time outside in the sun or underwater, so a few bathing suits are essential. When I travel, I always bring at least two swimsuits to have a dry one.

I may have gone a little over the top and brought eight bathing suits for this trip and went photo crazy in all of them. It was a few too many. If you’re after a new bathing suit, my favorite women’s swimsuit brands are Andie Swimsuits and Londre Bodywear.

For men, it’s easy to get by with two pairs of swim trunks for the whole trip! Cameron has the new Quicksilver’s Amphibian shorts. The material looks like tough fabric, but they’re super lightweight and durable. Best of all, they look great on the beach and around the resort.

Sun Hat

You aren’t going to get Instagram famous in the Maldives without a big floppy sunhat! Seriously, I think every girl I saw had a sunhat, and I was jealous I didn’t have one. Don’t be me and bring one for your trip. Not just for Instagram, but because they are beneficial for keeping the sun out of your face.

Sunglasses

Make sure to protect your eyes from the sun on your Maldives trip! You are close to the equator, and the sun is harsh. I can’t even go outside without sunglasses and always have them in my travel bag.

Smith Optics ChromaPop sunglasses have color-enhancing lenses and are my favorite sunglasses. Polarized glasses enhance vision in bright environments and removef glare from windshields and the water.

Travel Insurance

We never travel without travel insurance. You never know what can happen when you travel, and it’s better to be safe than sorry. You’ll want to be covered, especially if you’re partaking in water-based activities like scuba diving or snorkeling. We recommend Heymondo Insurance.

Travel Adapter

The Maldives uses the British Type G adaptor. A universal adaptor is never a bad idea when traveling, so make sure you find a good one like the one I have to keep you charged.

Maldives Packing List – Clothes to Bring

Yoga Pants

I pack at least two pairs of yoga pants in my suitcase, and the Maldives is no exception. Yoga on the beach, on your back porch, or in your overwater bungalow will improve your days! Some places even have free sunset or sunrise yoga sessions. Packing a travel yoga mat is a good idea, but many resorts have them these days!

Our favorite brand for women’s yoga pants is Handful (*Use code TWP20 for 20% off! ). They offer many features, such as temperature-regulating technology that keeps you cool when hot and warm when cold. They are quick-drying and are tight around the booty to give an extra lift. The top has a “squeeze play” high waist that provides excellent coverage and is comfortable around your curves as you move. (Use code TWP15 for 15% off!) If you’re a guy, check out prAna’s Vaha pants!

Beach Cover-Up

A beach cover-up or sarong is essential when traveling to The Maldives. A cover-up is one of those vacation clothes you should always pack for beach destinations. Not only do they look cute, but they will also protect you from the sun’s harsh rays. It’s great for walking around the resort as you may not want to eat lunch in your bathing suit.

Nice Maldives Outfit

One thing we have to stress about any Maldives outfit ideas is that the Maldives are as casual or formal as you want them to be. No one style fits all, and everyone does something different every night. For those wishing to dress up, you’ll have the opportunity every night at dinner.

Women should consider bringing at least a few light and flowy dresses or rompers, while men should have a casual beach outfit to wear out. I love the company Salty Crush for dresses, an Australian company that creates beautiful bohemian pieces.

T-Shirt or V Neck

A classic tee will never go out of style. We suggest sticking with solid colors like white or grey. There’s also the option of a v neck for a more stylish look, but it all depends on personal preference.

Cameron prefers the grey as it’s super easy to stain the white ones. Bombas, an excellent travel clothing brand, makes some of our favorite basic t-shirts ever!

Relaxed Pants

If you’re wondering what to wear in the Maldives, get a pair of relaxed beach pants. Our favorite pair of pants made by prAna. Their women’s Summit Pants are made out of hemp and recycled polyester and offer 50+ UPF protection. They’re the women’s version of the men’s Vaha Pant we recommended earlier.

They are perfect for beach destinations, especially if you find yourself in more conservative areas. These pants are lightweight and weigh nothing in a carry-on bag. I could live in these pants if it were acceptable to wear them for breakfast, lunch, and dinner out. While in the Maldives, they are a wardrobe staple for nighttime as they are appropriate to wear barefoot to a nice resort restaurant, to a bar, or for a walk along the beach.

Shorts

Pack at least one pair of shorts for your time in the Maldives. I prefer jean shorts, but also really love Lululemon Cinchable Waist High-Rise Woven Shorts and bring them everywhere as they go with everything, or flowy loose black shorts that I can easily pull over a bathing suit for ultimate comfort.

Clothing for Males

Most of this Maldives packing list focuses on items for beach days and resort stays. However if you plan to spend a lot of time on local islands (not resorts) or go into Male, the capital, it’s best to dress conservatively.

When dressing in the Maldives, it’s important to keep in mind the local culture and customs. The Maldives is a conservative country, which is easy to forget when you are lounging at resort all day. However, outside the resorts it’s important to dress respectably and keep shoulders, chest, and legs covered. This goes for men too.

SPF Sun Protection Shirt

If you’re going to be spending a lot of time outside (which I am assuming you will be in the Maldives) I would highly, highly recommend bringing a sun protection shirt. These shirts have lightweight UPF 50+ Sun Protection and will keep you protected while you spend time in the sun, snorkeling, swimming, paddleboarding, or doing anything outside your room. The sun in The Maldives is strong. Don’t underestimate it.

Maldives Packing List – Important Extras

Dry Bag

Dry bags are great if you’re going to spend time at the beach or find yourself out on a boat. They will protect your phone and any other electronics from the ocean, or more importantly if it starts to rain. We found them essential when we went out on our diving trips.

Camera Gear

Chances are you’ll want a camera for your trip to The Maldives. Our favorite pocket-sized point-and-shoot camera for quick trips is the Sony RX100V. It takes fantastic photos and videos and is the size of your palm.

We bought this camera specifically for our trip to the beach earlier in the year as we could easily add on underwater housing for an affordable price. It came in handy when snorkeling with sea turtles, black-tipped reef sharks, mantas, and stingrays in the Maldives. Check out our other travel cameras here. We also traveled with the Fujifilm Series, which produced most of the photos in this article.

GoPro

We like to throw a GoPro on our beach packing list since they are waterproof. Just attach it to a wrist strap, so it doesn’t get lost! The Indian Ocean may have swallowed one of our cameras before. You can always consider a floaty case to help with loss prevention.

Beach Bag

No matter what, you will need a beach bag when heading to beach destinations. It is to throw in anything from towels to books to sunscreen. Depending on the size of your beach party, you may only need one medium-sized tube. For family beachgoers, I recommend a large yet durable beach tote like this one. Many resorts will provide you with a beach bag, but we found them relatively small and not stable.

Kindle Paperwhite

Check out some of the best-sellers right now and pick up a copy. I like to read on days when I feel like sunbathing and relaxing, every day in the Maldives. Cameron is pretty impatient so having a book to read on the beach provides some much-needed entertainment. I’ve recently upgraded to the Kindle Paperwhite and love it. It’s small, has touchscreen functions, and a backlight so that I can read at night without a harsh glare.

Fins/Mask/Snorkel

If you are a snorkel lover like us, it might be worth it for you to bring fins to the Maldives. Would you believe we travel around the world with our fins, mask, and snorkel? It’s true!

We were a little surprised that the resorts will still charge you to rent snorkel equipment each day despite already paying an arm and a leg in the Maldives. The cost may be as little as $5 a day, but having our gear saves us the hassle of dealing with rentals, paying, and putting our mouths around used snorkels. I have an Aqualung mask that works excellent and Dive Oceanic fins that fit well in my suitcase.

Tennis Shoes

Just because you’re going to one of the world’s dreamiest beach destinations doesn’t mean you shouldn’t stay active. If you don’t want to abandon the workout routine, bring your sneakers so you can still keep up with the beach body. See more of the best women’s travel shoes here and men’s travel shoes here.

Floatables

You’re not anyone on Instagram until you take a photo with a bright pink flamingo floaty in the baby blue water of the Maldives. Nowadays, you get anything from Unicorn floaties to giant parrots to float in the water.

These floaties were all over the Maldives. You can buy them at resort gift shops, but you’ll get a better deal online beforehand and packing it with you. Just make sure to bring it back home with you. The Maldives can’t handle any plastic waste left behind.

Things to Know Before Traveling to the Maldives

• Should You Bring a Drone? Although drone footage in the Maldives looks amazing and flying a drone is legal, I wouldn’t bother bringing a drone to The Maldives. Most resorts have a strict no fly policy nowadays. So unless you have pre-approval to fly your drone at a resort (we did, for just a few minutes), or you are staying on local islands it’s not really worth bringing a drone.
• Should You Bring Snorkle Gear? Most resorts have snorkel gear for free for guests or for a small charge. So you don’t have to bring your own. We like to have our own fins and masks as we are in and out of the water a lot and it beats always having to check in and out rental gear with the hotel/resort.
• Should You Bring Dive Gear? Most dive gear in the Maldives is included in a dive package, so bringing your own is not necessary. However must die-hard divers prefer their own gear.
• Bring Cash: USD is widely accepted around the Maldives, and it never hurts to have any on you.
• Medication: Bring any personal medication you need. There is a small pharmacy in the arrivals section of the Velana International Airport. However it is limited, and most of these drugs come from India and might be much different than what you are used to. Almost all private islands and resorts have a medical doctor on stand-by should any problems arise.
• Seaplane Allowance: If you are taking a seaplane, there will be a weight allowance. The allowance is 25 kg, which includes 20 kg of checked-in luggage and 5 kg of hand luggage per person. The weight of any bag should not exceed 32 kg. The per kg charge for baggage above 25 kg is USD 5.00/- plus applicable taxes.

Things Not to Bring to the Maldives

• Alcohol: Is not allowed to be brought into the Maldives. If you have any from a duty free shop you will have to leave it with customs at the airport and you can pick it up on the way out of the Maldives
• Pork Products: The Maldives is a Muslim country, and no pork products are to be imported.
• Heels: There’s no need in the Maldives. Even at night you’ll be walking to and from dinner in the sand.
• Suits/Super Fancy Clothes: Unless you are attending a destination wedding there’s no need for suits or fancy clothes. Of course, people dress up for dinner, but more “beach chic.” Think lined shirts and loose flowy dresses.

Where to Stay in the Maldives?

Budget: Cinnamon Ellaidhoo is an excellent property for those that want to do the Maldivian resort thing while still staying on budget. We were at Ellaidhoo for three nights and loved our time here. The house reef is fantastic, and every time we went out to snorkel, we discovered some new, bright fish. It’s also very far away from Male and the hustle and bustle of the countries capital.  Check prices here!

Mid Range: We had a fantastic time at Kurumba Maldives. This resort is only a five-minute speedboat ride away from the Male Airport. Meaning you could arrive in the Maldives and be at your resort a few minutes later, saving on additional airfare and time. It’s also the first resort ever in the Maldives, but it’s elegantly maintained, and they have a great dive shop. Check prices here!

Luxury: Velassaru was our favorite resort in the Maldives. They are a 20-minute speedboat ride away from the capital, so it’s a quick transfer in and out. The food here is to die for, and the overwater bungalows are more extensive than my entire old apartment. You won’t regret a stay here! Check prices on Agoda.

There are no hard and fast rules. However, conservative dress in Arabic culture will attract less unwanted attention and respect. Most visit the country in the winter when the weather is comfortable and mild, with warm days and cool evenings. Loose and light clothing that covers the skin is the best way to pack and will keep you the most comfortable.

How Conservative is Morocco?

When thinking about what to wear in Morocco, you probably wonder what is culturally appropriate. Tourists have their dress code at the tourist sites. Places like the Marrakech and Fez see shorts, tight pants, high heels, and short dresses. However, as soon as you step out of these tourist sites and into the streets, you’ll see women in hijabs and abayas, and men in traditional djellaba.

We recommend you dress to match the culture as a guest in their country. We view it as a sign of respect. It means no short shorts, short dresses, tight dresses, or cleavage showing. If you do decide to dress provocatively, you’ll feel more out of place than if you didn’t, especially in Morocco. As a woman, I noticed men tend to stare even in loose pants and a loose, long-sleeved shirt. (Granted, it could be my blonde hair.)

We suggest the middle ground for the dress. Women don’t need to wear a headscarf, but a low-cut shirt or tight leggings may not be the best idea. Dressing cute, comfortably, and modestly is straightforward without disrespecting or offending cultural norms. Keeping your knees and shoulders covered is best as a sign of respect.

The exception is at the beach or hotel pools. Here, it’s perfectly acceptable to wear bathing suits, cover-ups, and shorts. It’s a tourist spot, and it does not enter locals’ everyday lives. We have more tips on travel around Morocco in another article on our website.

What to Wear

Sandals

Many people wear sandals in Morocco, which are great for hot destinations. You don’t want to live in your shoes your whole trip, and sandals are perfect for letting your feet breathe. A good pair of sandals is great for being comfortable on long travel days and under the hot sun of Northern Africa.

I love to travel with Tevas, which get me through anything and are great for walking comfort. Check out the Sanuk Yoga Sling if you are after an affordable, cute sandal. We spend 90% of our time in a pair of sandals traveling around. We only opt for our shoes in specific city neighborhoods with dirty streets and hikes in the Rif and Atlas Mountains.

Breathable Shoes

It’s best to bring a pair of lightweight shoes. The heat in Northern Africa and Morocco can be very intense. If you don’t want your feet always to feel sweaty, we recommend you wear breathable shoes. Most travelers will appreciate the protection of shoes over sandals, as the medina streets can be dirty. We love Allbird Tree Runners and ON Cloud 5 sneakers for hot-weather destinations. Allbirds are sustainable shoes that are highly versatile with outfits. At the same time, the ON Cloud sneakers are super comfortable trainers.

Lightweight Long Sleeve Shirt

We like to pack a combination of long and short-sleeved shirts. Long sleeves are great for sun protection, and we wore them on desert walks in the Sahara or Atlas Mountains. Synthetic materials are popular for sunshirts, but organic materials like hemp, linen, or rapeseed are other options.

Linen is an excellent option for your trip as it has a timeless look. Pair a linen shirt with sandals, shorts, jeans, or shoes. Linen is versatile clothing that looks good on both sexes and works at the beach, museum, archaeological site, or restaurant. It’s tough to find decent linen shirts online, but I love the quality of Everlane linen shirts. If you prefer a technical shirt, check out these safari shirts for travel in Africa.

Short Sleeve Shirt

A classic tee will never go out of style and should be essential when considering what to wear in Morocco. We suggest you keep it simple when it comes to tees. No one needs a fancy designer tee as a base layer. Cameron prefers the grey as it’s easy to stain the white ones. Wool shirts stay fresh longer and do an excellent job at temperature management. I’ve tested a lot of wool shirts out, and my favorite for travel so far is from Unbound Merino.

Travel Pants

While the weather was warm during the day, we spent plenty of time in pants. We always recommend traveling with a pair of pants as they are better for more conservative environments like visiting a mosque or a nice meal out.

Natasha loves the PrAna’s Summit Pants for travel around Africa and the Mediterranean. They are made from recycled nylon stretch fabric and offer 50+ UPF protection. Coalatree Trailhead pants are another excellent option for women or men. We love that they have cuffed ankles that resist dirty streets.

For male travelers, it’s nearly impossible to beat the Western Rise Evolution Pants. The technical fabric allows the pants to breathe, stretch, and resist stains and wrinkles. As a significant bonus, they’re super comfortable and have become Cameron’s daily pants for life and travel—perfect for traveling around the country.

Down Jacket

While we may have just mentioned some items for hot weather, Morocco also experiences cold weather. If you plan to travel to the Sahara desert, you will need a jacket to keep warm at night. The average nighttime temperature in the Saharan desert is -4 C or 25 F. Yes, it’s that cold! Another popular destination with cold weather is Chefchaouen in the Rif Mountains.

We recommend checking the climate and season before you head off on your trip. If you travel around Morocco extensively, you’ll most likely encounter a few cold evenings. During the high season, we recommend you bring a packable down jacket to Morocco. The Patagonia Down Sweater is a classic down jacket if you’re after an easy recommendation.

Windbreaker

If you plan to visit some coastal cities, a light windbreaker or fleece jacket will help, especially in the winter. We always travel with a lightweight jacket, as even planes can be cold. However, a light windbreaker that doesn’t take up much room is best.

Travel Shorts

Morocco receives some seriously hot weather. You can learn more about the weather in our article about the best time to visit. You’ll want some shorts for your trip. They’re also easy to pack, taking up less space in your luggage, and can be easily washed. We love to have a pair of shorts for days out exploring ancient ruins, hikes, or early morning runs. We have two recommendations for travel shorts.

Men can check out the Western Rise Evolution Shorts; they’re super comfortable, lightweight, and have fantastic features like zippered security pockets. Tash loves her Lululemon Cinchable Waist Shorts. Wear whatever suits your style, but we recommend women air on the conservative side with their short choice. Locals, for the most part, do not wear shorts at all.

Sundress

Wear a cute dress for a more feminine look. I loved wearing light and flowy dresses, but they needed not to be too revealing. Dresses past the knee with no cleavage or shoulders showing are ideal. One of my favorites for this trip is the Scotch & Soda Safari Dress. It’s perfect for Morocco and all-around Africa travel! What I love about these pieces is that they are specifically made for travel and are anti-wrinkle. The photo is from a recent trip to Egypt, but it’s a similar climate and culture.

Swimsuit

Just because you’re in a Muslim country doesn’t mean you can’t wear a bathing suit at your riad or the beach. I would recommend bringing one for the summer months. Especially if your hotel has a pool, you will go to coastal towns like Essaouira or surf in Taghazout.

For women, Tasha’s favorite bathing suits lately have been made by Andie Swim. Cameron loves Quicksilver’s Amphibian shorts. The material looks like heavy cotton, but they’re lightweight and durable. Best of all, they look great on the beach or in town.

Sunglasses

Morocco has a lot of sunshine, and you’ll need sunglasses to protect your eyes. We’ve had our Smith Chromapop sunglasses for a while and can’t recommend them enough. The Chromopop lens technology is like seeing the world with fresh eyes. They enhance contrast, reduce glare, and reflect light for superb vision while driving, walking around town, or out on the water.

A Good Sunhat

If you are considering what to pack for Morocco, I recommend picking a stylish sunhat! You’ll want hats for walking around in the hot sun all day, and I recommend a hat with a brim. We have some great recommendations if you’re traveling around much of Africa.

Scarf, shemagh, Or Bandana

Morocco is conservative, and you may want a headscarf for some religious sites. Scarves and shawls are lightweight and easy to travel with, so there is no reason not to have one. They are always good to have when you need to cover your head before walking into a Mosque. I also like wearing scarves around my head while just walking around. As a blonde, I tend to get unwanted attention, and a scarf helps negate the attention. It also serves as a superb protection from desert winds and dust.

Travel Towel

We always recommend bringing a travel towel when you’re on the road; Morocco is no exception. You’ll often need your towel if you plan on staying in hostels or more budget accommodation. Also, if you head to the beach or want to hike, having a towel in your day bag never hurts. Consider a towel an essential Morocco packing list item.

Accessories To Pack For Morocco

Hand Sanitizer

Walking around and participating in everyday activities in Morocco can get pretty dirty. It was also a recurring theme to find hand soap nowhere. Traditional dining in Morocco is with your hands and bread, although you’ll find cutlery at most establishments that cater to tourists. You can’t go wrong with bringing some hand sanitizer and eco-friendly baby wipes in your bag.

Sunscreen

Skin cancer is for real! Remember your SPF when traveling around Africa, as you’re close to the Equator. We recommend ordering some online before leaving the house, as you will need it underneath the African sun. It can be tough to find in grocery stores in Morocco (and when you do find it, the pricing will be insane). We highly recommend getting an eco-friendly sun cream that does not contain harmful chemicals.

Pillow and Sheets

It is unnecessary when packing for Morocco, but it comes in handy when you get to a room and find the conditions less desirable. A sleeping bag liner or a sleeping bag also does a great job! If you plan to backpack around Morocco and stay in hostels, it’s a good idea to pack this.

Daypack

Our daypack was handy every day in Morocco. You’ll need something to stash your photography gear, hand sanitizers, papers, phones, and anything else for a full day out when traveling. Our favorite daypack as photographers is the Peak Design Everyday Backpack.

Electronics

Smartphone

We live in a digital age, and I hate to say this, but our phones are our lifelines in Africa. They are our maps, news sources, and online social lives; they are even used as telephones to get around. It is a fact that if you are in Marrakech or Fez, then you will get lost in the medina.

Forget to ask any local for directions without paying them some tip. So, don’t forget your phone to help you get around. When we get to a new country, we always get a local SIM card and top it up with data and airtime to call the local numbers in case of emergencies. Data is cheap in Morocco, and it was nice to stay connected.

Camera

A high-quality camera is an essential packing item for Morocco if you want some great shots during your vacation. We travel with many cameras, but the one we recommend to everyone who wants to take their photography seriously is the Fujifilm X-T4.

Please note that drones are not allowed in Morocco. We’ve heard many stories of travelers having them confiscated at points of entry, so we wouldn’t recommend taking any chances or messing with the Moroccan authorities.

Travel Adapter

Remember that Morocco uses the Europlug. Ensure you find a suitable electrical adapter like the one I have to keep you charged. Otherwise, you may be paying for a cheap one once you land. I would recommend getting a good one online before arriving. Finding a decent travel adapter for a reasonable price can be tough when you’re likely already running low on juice.

All that weather does make for some wonderful sights. It’s tough not to love the country’s verdant rolling hills, crumbling castles, dramatic coastlines, welcoming locals, and charming farms. It’s often said in the country there is no bad weather, just the wrong clothes.

Tips For Packing For Ireland

We recommend everyone bring several staple items for a trip. Ireland is well known for being wet, so the weather will play a significant role in what you throw in your backpack or suitcase. Simple wardrobe choices feel right at home in Ireland. There is always the odd exception, like a night out to the Abbey Theatre in Dublin or an excellent meal in Galway.

We spend most of our time in Ireland wearing a sweater, jeans, boots, and a handy rain jacket. Most travelers, ourselves included, will spend their time outside exploring Ireland’s countryside. It’s filled with old walking paths, castles, cozy pubs, sheep, and quaint towns; it’s the perfect place to lose yourself.

• Rain gear is always a good idea to pack: a rain jacket, umbrella, and weatherproof boots.
• Packing cubes help separate damp and dirty clothes from clean ones.
• Three pairs of shoes are the maximum you should pack—a nice, casual, and athletic shoe/boot.
• Ireland is a relaxed place, so there is no need for fancy clothes unless you’re staying at one of the famed golf resorts.
• It’s almost always sweater weather, so pack your favorite wool sweater or cardigan.
• A scarf and hat are a great way to warm up if there is a chill in the air.
• It’s not always cold. Summers can be warm and have fantastic weather. Be sure to check the weather beforehand and pack some clothes for warm weather. We’ve had glorious weather on trips and miserable weather that made us question our trip to Ireland altogether.

The Weather in Ireland

reland has a cool, damp, and rainy oceanic climate year-round. Temperatures do not change much throughout the year. It’s just as rare to have a hot day in the summer as snow in the winter. This is good news for packing as you won’t have to worry about various climates. It’s best to check the weather a week before your trip to get an idea of what the temperatures will be like during your trip. We have an article about the best time to visit Ireland if you’d like a more in-depth overview.

Seasons in Ireland

What to Wear in Ireland?

Wool Sweater

If there is one article of clothing made for travel in Ireland, it’s the wool sweater. A sweater makes a great travel outfit staple. They’re comfortable, stylish, and warm. The season doesn’t matter, as most of Ireland is temperate and remains fresh year-round. You can expect comfortable daytime temperatures and chilly evenings in the summer.

I have several sweaters, but my favorites are organic materials like wool or Alpaca. Ireland has some terrific wool and sweater producers, but it may take a bit of digging. In recent years, most tourist shops often sell cheap foreign-produced versions. We put in some legwork, and Tasha got hers from Cottage Handcrafts in Connemara in the photo above.

Rain Jacket

Right after you pack your wool sweater, reach for a rain jacket. If we were taking bets, we’d wager you’ll see some rain during your trip to Ireland. It doesn’t get that green without plenty of rain. The rain varies a lot in Ireland. Some days, it may only be an afternoon shower, while other storms can last for days.

We suggest a packable rain jacket made for the outdoors/hiking. These jackets are lightweight, durable, packable, waterproof, and windproof. Any rain jacket will do, but the top-dollar ones designed for the outdoors will hold up and help in inclement weather. They also do an exceptional job of blocking the wind, which can be unrelenting.

Flannel Shirt

Flannel shirts are fabulous mid-layers for both men and women. A nice flannel provides warmth, comfort, and style. They’re super easy to style for a relaxed outdoor look. A cozy flannel is perfect for travel days, sightseeing, or casual hikes. Most of Ireland is very casual, and you’ll feel at home in a flannel or sweater.

Down Jacket

In the summer, travelers can probably get by with a wool sweater and rain jacket to stay warm. Outside of the summer, a down jacket is an excellent idea. We recommend a packable down jacket on a trip with cool weather since they’re versatile. For a destination like Ireland, a it’s a great way to keep warm without wasting too much space in your luggage. If you prefer a more stylish jacket option, a peacoat is a classic wardrobe choice, but it’s cumbersome, so you’ll need to wear it on the plane.

T-Shirt

A classic tee will never go out of style. We suggest sticking with solid colors like black, white, or grey. Hiking on a sunny day can be pretty warm, and we often shed layers. A classic cotton tee shirt is adequate if you have plans for casual hikes or walks around the village. However, a merino wool shirt is a worthy investment and one of the best pieces of travel clothes.

Wools shirts stay fresh longer and do an excellent job at temperature management. I’ve tested a lot of wool shirts out, and my favorite for travel so far is from Unbound Merino. Cameron prefers the grey as it’s super easy to stain the white ones.

Jeans

Jeans are an Ireland fashion staple but aren’t the best packing or most comfortable travel pants. However, travelers have options such as DU/ER jeans. The organic cotton jeans look sharp, but a subtle blend of polyester and spandex allows the jeans to stretch and resist wrinkles perfect for travel. Thanks to the synthetic blend, they’re great for lengthy trips as there is no need to wash the jeans.

Technical Pants

A pair of chinos or travel pants are great for traveling around Ireland. Our first choice is a reliable pair of “travel pants” with synthetic materials. These pants are often stain-resistant, dry quickly, weigh less, remain fresh for multiple wears, and are more comfortable than traditional pants or chinos.

We love that these technical pants, previously only made for hiking, now resemble chinos. It’s a classic pant that goes with a sweater, dress shirt, t-shirt, or blouse. For women, we suggest the Kuhl Freeflex Pants for outdoor adventures and the Everlane Utility Barrel Pants for a more stylish city/town look. Men should check out the KUHL Renegade Rock Pants for outdoor adventures and the Western Rise Evolution 2.0 Pants for everything else.

Scarf

A scarf is a travel staple and a great wardrobe choice for women and men traveling in Ireland. They act as an accessory to your outfit and are super comfortable, adding warmth. Ireland is known for its windy days, so the scarf protects your neck. They can spice up an outfit you’ve already worn three days in a row and can be thrown into a bag or purse to pull out when the sun sets and the weather gets chilly.

Sneakers

Hitting the sidewalk and letting the city or town unfurl around you is one of the best ways to get familiar with a new destination. A comfortable pair of shoes for both men and women are essential when packing your bag for Ireland. I wouldn’t recommend those terrible clunky hiking shoes or athletic shoes many tourists like to bring. Since most of Ireland’s towns and cities are lovely for walking around, we suggest packing good walking shoes.

Boots

Pack a pair of boots to help cope with all the wet weather. Locals like to wear “Wellies” or Wellington Boots, big rubber boots. We’re always happy in regular boots because we stay off farms and bogs. I’m a leather boot fiend and love classic boots. Our go-to boot for travel is are a pair of Blundstone boots.

Travel Underwear

Generally, we’ll pack five to seven pairs of underwear for a typical trip. We recommend several pairs of underwear made from wool or a synthetic material. These materials are antimicrobial, so they stay fresh longer and can dry quickly overnight if you hand wash them.

Wool Socks

We’ve learned to love our feet with a good pair of socks. You will want to keep your feet dry while walking around. Most importantly, wool socks stay fresh for several days as they have natural antimicrobial properties. We travel with several pairs of wool socks on any trip. Our recommendations for socks are Darn Tough and Smartwool.

Sunglasses

A stylish pair of sunglasses is an excellent addition to an outfit. Everyone owns at least one pair of sunglasses. However, it’s best to ensure they have UV protection for the health of your eyes. We always travel with two pairs of sunglasses as we’re pretty active. A pair for hiking and outdoor adventures and a couple of stylish sunglasses to wear at the beach or around town for the day.

Ireland Packing List for Women

Overcoat

If you want a stylish look that will keep you warm, I’d suggest picking up a peacoat. An overcoat is excellent for providing warmth and looking great. While we love our down jackets for their warmth and convenience, they aren’t the best-looking things in the world, and you’d look pretty silly wearing one with a dress or suit.

Long Sleeve Cardigan

A cardigan is one of my favorite items to wear in Ireland. A cardigan has a great relaxed style and look and keeps you warm. They’re also light enough to eat up minimal room in the suitcase. I pack one during any season in Ireland as you can wear it with a coat in winter, and it’s rarely too warm in the summer.

Blouse

While Ireland is casual, people are still presentable in public. Most women wear a nice dress shirt, blouse, or sweater on colder days. They’ll bust out the summer dress if you get a rare warm summer day. Most women should avoid graphic tees or short-sleeved shirts; instead, wear a light blouse. It’s a perfect item to wear in the summer as the right blouse is super cool and comfortable.

Fleece Lined Leggings

It can get quite cold in Ireland, especially come late October until about April. This is when I often turn to fleece-lined leggings that look great while walking around cities like Dublin or Galway but keep me extra warm. Fleece-lined leggings are perfect to wear like regular leggings and go with any sweater or jacket you have!

Romper/Jumpsuit

Rompers are probably one of my favorite travel outfits for Ireland because they’re stylish, comfortable, and practical. You can’t go wrong here, and I’d suggest throwing at least one or two rompers in your suitcase for Ireland. They’re great for a night out on the town in Dublin and surprisingly superb for Irish attire. We love Patagonia’s Fleetwith Romper for travel!

Black Flats

A pair of black flats is always great to have in a suitcase. They’re stylish, comfortable, and take up minimal luggage space. My tip, stay away from heels, many towns have cobblestone streets, and you don’t want to break an ankle trying to look good. Just let the locals impress you with their skills of walking in heels.

Men’s Ireland Packing List

Overcoat

Just like women, a stylish overcoat will keep you warm. While we love our down jackets for their warmth and convenience, they aren’t the best-looking things in the world, and you’d look pretty silly wearing one with a dress or suit.

Dress Shirt/Chinos

You’d look pretty ridiculous wearing a T-shirt or a flannel out to a nice meal in Glasgow. It’s a great idea to travel with at least one nice outfit that fits your style. Your travel plans in Ireland will also have an enormous impact. Western Rise makes travel-specific men’s dress clothes that are wrinkle and stain-resistant. They also make a great gift!

Henley

A henley is a great clothing choice for Ireland. It’s lightweight yet provides some warmth from the wind, and it’s more appropriate than a long-sleeved graphic shirt or technical clothing.

What To Pack

Daypack

You’ll need something to stash your photography gear, hand sanitizers, papers, phones, and anything else for a full day out when traveling. We’ve tested out a ton of daypacks and backpacks over the years.

Toiletry Bag

Keeping your toiletries organized and separated from your clothes is always a good idea. It almost feels like a toiletry bag is essential for any trip. Plus, it’s not uncommon to find small or cramped bathrooms in Ireland. Buying a hanging toiletry bag is a great option if you are limited on counter space. This bag style tends to have a better organization system with various sections for storage than the traditional option. We love the Peak Design Wash Pouch. It contains a hidden hook to hang and features terrific organization.

Travel Adaptor

Your electronics packing list for Ireland will include an adaptor. We always keep one handy in our carry-on bags, so we can charge electronics on arrival or at the airport. For the United Kingdom, you’ll need the British “Type G” three-prong adaptor. However, most of Europe uses Type C, F, and E adaptors. Check out the one I have, which is good for Europe.

Camera

A high-quality camera is an essential packing item for Ireland if you want some great shots while on your vacation We travel with a bunch of cameras. Still, the one we universally recommend is the RX 100. They make several models at different price points, but it’s a simple-to-use point-and-shoot camera that anyone can operate. It also takes superb images with a 20mp resolution and full manual controls.

Travel Towel

We always pack a travel towel when we’re on the road. It’s one of the best travel essentials for international travel you can buy. They pack up small, antimicrobial, and lightweight, so they will save you from always needing a new towel or constantly washing yours. A towel is necessary for backpackers as hostels often do not supply a towel. However, they’re also excellent for those not on a budget for excursions and tours.

Kindle Paperwhite

A Kindle is an essential travel accessory for travelers who love to read. As much as we love an actual book, they are too heavy and take up too much room in my suitcase. We recently upgraded to the Kindle Paperwhite and love it. It’s small, has touchscreen functions, and has a backlight to read at night without a harsh glare. It’s tough to beat the feeling of warming up next to a wood stove with a cuppa tea and a good book.

Ireland Guidebook

We spend enough time attached to our phones in everyday life and planning our trips. Once we reach a destination like Ireland, we put the phone away and pick up a guidebook to help with our trip.

Packing Cubes

Packing cubes are phenomenal for the organization of any backpack or suitcase. They are one of those packing essentials that should be in every bag as they keep all of your clothes and toiletries organized. Cubes also keep clothes folded and protect them from wrinkles. Our favorite packing cubes are currently from Peak Design.

Passport Holder

For the women, I suggest traveling with an anti-theft black and stylish purse to hold belongings. Cameron has an excellent passport wallet with his passport and credit cards, so he never leaves it anywhere.

Essential Documents To Pack

• Passport – This is obvious, but you won’t make it very far without a passport.
• Credit Cards – We always use several travel credit cards that offer purchase protection, rewards, and no foreign transaction fees.
• Visa – Make sure you have a visa if you need one.
• Debit Cards – It’s good to carry euros in Ireland. We never bother with money exchanges that provide awful exchange rates. Instead, we rely on the ATM when we arrive. Charles Schwab, Ally, and Capital One offer low or no foreign transaction fees. Keep in mind the Republic of Ireland uses Euro, and Northern Ireland uses the Great British Pound.
• Driving License – If you plan to rent a car, you will need your driver’s license, plus it never hurts to have a second form of I.D. If your license is not in English, you may need an IDP translation to English.

What Luggage To Bring To Ireland?

Hardshell Suitcase

Travel Backpack

I have two bag recommendations for a trip to Europe. You can opt for a traditional hardshell suitcase with four wheels or a travel backpack. Suitcases with four wheels are best as the ability to roll sideways down the aisle of a train or a sidewalk makes life a lot easier. We prefer hardshell as it does a better job at protection and security. Our favorite hardshell suitcase is the Delsey Helium Aero 25″.

Travel backpacks are great for young backpackers, digital nomads, or minimalists! They are also great if you want to save on any checked bag fees your air carrier may charge you. If paying for taxis or car rentals makes you hesitant, you’ll want to book accommodation near public transport or have a backpack. Our favorites are the Peak Design Travel Backpack and the NOMATIC Backpack but read about the best backpacks for Europe if you’d like to learn more.

Nomatic Backpack Review: The BEST Travel Backpack?

Summary

It’s best not to forget things like medications, toiletries, and other personal items you might need when traveling. However, pharmacies are readily available in every Irish city and town. However, this is a general Ireland packing list for all to go off of. Remember that Ireland isn’t the end of the world, and if you forget something, it’s likely you’ll be able to find it when you get there. Enjoy your trip! Sláinte! 

Plus, it has the most welcoming locals and one heck of a culture — kilts, clans, and bagpipes are fantastic. It’s the perfect place to lose yourself in nature. In this post, we’ll share some packing suggestions and what to wear in Scotland. Ultimately, you should be able to build your packing list for Scotland.

What Should You Wear In Scotland?

There are several staple items that I recommend everyone pack for their trip to Scotland. Scotland is well known for its wild weather, and that will play a significant role in what you throw in your backpack or suitcase. As one should expect on an extended trip to Scotland, we’ve seen the craziest wind and rain in the Scottish Highlands.

Layers are not usually the most fashionable thing to wear, but they fend off the Scottish weather. Pack a sweater, rain jacket, water-resistant pants, leather boots, and a hat as a standard outfit. The outfit is the perfect complement and, when done right, looks nice out exploring the mountains.

The odd exception is like a night out in Edinburgh, a fine meal in a castle, or an international festival. Scotland has some beautiful resorts, and the cities have many events, shows, and restaurants, so having a nice outfit or two is a good idea.

That would mean a dress for women and men should pack chinos or even a suit. It all depends on your age, plans, and personal style. However, most days in the country are very relaxed, so pack practically.

What’s The Weather Like in Scotland?

It’s often said of the weather in Scotland that you can receive all four seasons in just one day. It can be sunny and hot in the morning, but it can be cold rain with a strong wind and perhaps even hail by noon. The weather here is notorious, but on average, it’s a very moderate climate with four seasons.

Thanks to the Gulf Stream, summers are never hot, nor are winters frigid. The average summertime temperature ranges from 15°C (59°F) to 17°C (63 °F). While in the winter, the average temperatures float around 5°C (41°F).

Scotland is relatively easy to pack for a trip once you cover the need for rain protection. Travelers to Scotland will spend most of their time outside, so focus on comfort. On an extended trip, you’ll likely see all types of weather, including a glorious sunny day or two!

It’s important not to let the poor weather deter you. There’s no such thing as bad weather, only the wrong clothes.

Seasons in Scotland

Tips To Pack For Scotland

• Rain gear is always a good idea to pack, which means a rain jacket, umbrella, and weatherproof boots.
• Packing cubes help separate damp and dirty clothes from clean ones.
• Three pairs of shoes are the max you should pack—a nice shoe, casual, and athletic shoe/boot.
• Scotland is a relaxed place, so there is no need for fancy clothes unless you’re staying at one of the famed golf resorts.
• It’s almost always sweater weather, so pack your favorite wool sweater or cardigan.
• A scarf and hat are a great way to warm up if a chill in the air.
• It’s not always cold. Summers can be warm and have amazing weather. Be sure to check the weather beforehand and pack some warm-weather clothes. We’ve had amazing weather on trips and weather that makes us question Scotland altogether.

27 Best Places to Visit in Scotland

Essential Documents To Pack

• Passport – This is obvious, but you won’t make it far without a passport.
• Credit Cards – We use several travel credit cards offering purchase protection, rewards, and no foreign transaction fees.
• Visa – Make sure you have a visa if you need one.
• Debit Cards – It’s good to carry Pounds in Scotland. We never bother with money exchanges that provide awful exchange rates. Instead, we rely on the ATM when we arrive. Charles Schwab, Ally, and Capital One offer low or no foreign transaction fees.
• Driving License – If you plan to rent a car, you will need your driver’s license, plus it never hurts to have a second form of I.D. You may need an IDP translation to English if your license is not in English.

What Luggage To Bring For Scotland?

Hardshell Suitcase

Travel Backpack

I have two bag recommendations for a trip to Scotland. You can opt for a traditional hardshell suitcase with four wheels or a travel backpack. Suitcases with four wheels are best as the ability to roll sideways down the aisle of a train or a sidewalk makes life a lot easier.

We prefer hardshell as it does a better job at protection and security. Our favorite hardshell suitcase is the Delsey Helium Aero 25″. Travel backpacks are great for young backpackers, digital nomads, or minimalists! They are also great if you want to save on any checked bag fees your air carrier may charge. Packing cubes are phenomenal at organizing and separating dirty clothes, and our favorites are from Peak Design.

If paying for taxis or car rentals makes you hesitant, you’ll want to book accommodation near public transport or have a backpack. Our favorites are the Osprey travel backpacks, men’s Farpoint, and women’s Fairview. For more suggestions, read our post on the best backpacks for Europe.

What to Pack for Scotland

Wool Sweater

If there is one article of clothing made for travel in Scotland, it’s the wool sweater. Sweaters can make a great travel outfit staple. They’re comfortable, stylish, and warm. The season doesn’t matter, as most of Scotland is temperate and remains cool year-round. It means comfortable daytime temperatures during the day and chilly evenings in the summer.

Scotland has some terrific wool and sweater producers, but it may take a bit of digging. We purchased wool sweaters from independent retailers in Edinburgh, but a good one is tough to find. Most major tourist shops sell cheap Chinese versions. So it’s best to have at least one sweater packed in the suitcase for your trip.

Flannel Shirt

It’s tough to say what’s more comfortable, a flannel shirt or a wool sweater. While flannel shirts originate from Wales, their classic plaid pattern is Scottish, so it does feel fitting to wear one in Scotland. A flannel strikes the perfect balance of practicality and style while in Scotland.

You won’t find many Scots wearing them in the city streets, but these shirts are perfect for exploring the country’s awe-inspiring landscapes. One could argue that the Scottish Highlands are some of the most beautiful landscapes on earth. Patagonia’s Fjord Flannel is one of their signature products and a wardrobe staple.

T-Shirt or V Neck

A classic tee will never go out of style. It’s best to stick with solid colors like black, white, or grey. There’s also the option of a v-neck for a more stylish look, but it all depends on personal preference. Scotland may not be known for its warm weather, but it does see some lovely summer days. Hiking on a sunny day in the Scottish highlands can be pretty warm, and you’ll want to shed layers quickly.

A wool shirt is a worthy investment and one of the best pieces of travel clothes. Wool shirts stay fresh longer and do an excellent job at temperature management. I’ve tested a lot of wool shirts out, and my favorite for travel so far is from Unbound Merino. Men should also check out Western Rise for their wool shirts, as they’re tremendous.

We suggest you keep it simple when it comes to tees. No one needs a fancy designer tee as a base layer. Cameron prefers the grey as it’s easy to stain the white ones. We love the quality and ease of ordering from Bombas if you’re after a classic cotton tee.

Jeans

Jeans go with anything; despite the notion they are “American” casual, the right pair is attractive. For the most part, the Scots do not care what you wear, but showing up to the pub in damp outdoor wear isn’t usual. Jeans are a fashion staple but aren’t the best packing pants. However, travelers have options, such as DU/ER jeans. The organic cotton jeans look sharp, but the blend of polyester and spandex allows the jeans to stretch.

Fit is exceptional, with a slim fit throughout the leg. You can comfortably wear the jeans on long travel days without any discomfort. Thanks to the synthetic blend, they’re great for lengthy trips as there is no need to wash the jeans. An easy favorite for anyone seeking new travel clothes.

Hiking Pants or Shorts

Technical pants like hiking pants are water-resistant and dry quickly, not to mention they’re comfortable on long walks. Traditionally, these pants were pretty ugly, but now times are changing, and pants look similar to chinos or khakis. If you plan to spend time outside in the Scottish countryside, I suggest adding these to your Scottish attire.

We have two excellent recommendations for pants from Kuhl: the men’s Renegade Rock Pants and the women’s Freeflex Pants. These pants won’t hold up in truly heinous weather, so if hunkering down for a few hours isn’t your cup of tea, consider these rain pants from Outdoor Research or softshell pants from Arc’teryx.

Chinos

If you plan to spend time in Edinburgh, I’d suggest you have some clothes that are appropriate for city exploring. A pair of chinos works on both sexes. It’s a classic look that works well in Scotland when combined with a sweater. I always pack a pair of these pants in my bag! Western Rise specializes in men’s travel clothes and makes some awesome pants, shirts, and travel clothes. Their travel clothes are all comfortable, wrinkle-resistant, and stain-resistant. Amazing for travel!

Rain Jacket

Right after you pack your wool sweater, reach for a rain jacket. If we were taking bets, we’d make a substantial wager you’ll see some rain during your trip to Scotland. It doesn’t get that green without plenty of rain.

We suggest a packable rain jacket made for the outdoors/hiking. Hiking jackets are lightweight, durable, packable, waterproof, and windproof. Any rain jacket will do, but the top-dollar ones designed for the outdoors will hold up and help in inclement weather. They also do an exceptional job at blocking the wind, which can be unrelenting.

Down Jacket

In the summer, travelers can probably get by with a wool sweater and rain jacket to stay warm. Outside of the summer, a down jacket is an excellent idea. We recommend a packable down jacket on a trip with cool weather since they’re versatile.

With a destination like Scotland, they are a great way to keep warm without eating up too much space in your luggage. If you prefer a more stylish jacket option, a peacoat is a classic wardrobe choice, but it’s cumbersome, so you’ll need to wear it on the plane.

Thermal Layers

It is a wee bit chilly in Scotland from about late September to April, and thermals will help retain heat. Most days, you’ll be fine without thermals, but on those days where the weather is truly foul, they’re a lifesaver. If you plan to travel to Scotland outside the summer months, it may be a good idea to pack a set.

We recommend they fit snugly, and they are a noncotton material like nylon or wool for base layers. We’ve had a lot of base layers, but our favorites are wool-based layers from Helly Hansen, Smartwool, Black Diamond, and yak wool from Kora.

Fleece Leggings

As mentioned it gets chilly in Scotland, especially come October until about April. While thermals are fantastic they are meant to be worn under your main layer. That’s when I turn to fleece-lined leggings in chilly weather. Fleece lined leggings are perfect to wear like regular leggings, and go with any sweater or jacket you have!

These are great for warmth, and abrasion resistance and even have hidden reflective in hem turn ups to always stay visible. These are tightly knitted to look sharp on the outside, but fleece-lined on the inside. If you get the odd snowday, these are also perfect! The Crash tights come in different colors, but my favorite is the solid black since they go with everything.

Scarf and Hat

A scarf and hat are travel staples and a great wardrobe choice for women and men traveling in Scotland. They act as an accessory to your outfit, and they’re super comfortable with an added layer of warmth. Scotland is known for its windy days, so a scarf and hat are lovely at protecting your neck and head.

Scarves are incredibly fabulous for travelers: They can spice up an outfit that you’ve already worn three days in a row and can be thrown into a bag or purse to pull out when the sun sets and the weather gets chilly.

Sneakers

Hitting the sidewalk and letting the city or town unfurl around you is one of the best ways to get familiar with a new destination. A comfortable pair of shoes for both men and women are essential when packing your bag for Scotland.

I wouldn’t recommend those terrible clunky hiking shoes or athletic shoes many tourists like to bring. Since most of Scotland’s towns and cities are wonderful for walking around, we suggest packing good walking shoes. Our favorite travel sneakers are Allbirds Wool Runners because they’re sustainable, cozy, simple, and super comfortable. You can read our in-depth review of Allbirds here.

Leather Boots

These are great all year round as you can never go wrong with a pair of leather boots. Women can wear them with a pair of chinos and a blouse, while men can pair them with just about anything from jeans, chinos, and even a suit.

It’s wet and boggy in Scotland, and you can expect a lot of rainy weather so packing a pair of good hiking boots for hikes is crucial for protecting your feet. Locals like to wear “Wellies” or Wellington Boots which are big rubber boots. We were fine in a decent pair of boots because we stayed off farms and the really deep stuff.

I’m a leather boot fiend and love a classic boot. If you’re looking for the best boots for Scotland, check out an affordable option like Clark’s or Timberland for leather boots. If you want quality boots to last a lifetime check out Chippewa, Danner, or Red Wing boots manufactured in the United States.

Wool Socks

We’ve learned to love our feet with a good pair of socks. You will want to keep your feet nice and dry while you walk around. Most importantly, wool socks stay fresh for several days as they have natural antimicrobial properties. We travel with a couple of wool socks from Darn Tough, Smartwool, and Farm To Feet.

Scotland Packing List for Women

Peacoat

If you want a stylish look that will keep you warm, I’d suggest picking up a peacoat. A peacoat is excellent for providing warmth and looking great. While we love our down jackets for their warmth and convenience, they aren’t the best looking things in the world, and you’d look pretty silly wearing one with a dress or suit.

Long Sleeve Cardigan

A cardigan is one of my favorite items to wear in Scotland. A cardigan has a great relaxed style and look, plus it keeps you warm. They’re also light enough to eat up minimal room in the suitcase. I pack one during any season in Scotland as you can wear it with a coat in winter, and it’s rarely too warm in the summer.

Blouse

While Scotland is casual, people are still presentable in public. You’ll see most women will wear a nice dress shirt, blouse, or sweater on colder days. Should you get the rare warm summer day, they’ll bust out the summer dress. Most women should shy away from graphic tees or short-sleeved shirts; instead, wear a light blouse. It’s a perfect item to wear in the summer as the fitting blouse is super cool and comfortable.

Dress Or Jumpsuit

There are plenty of reasons to get dressed up in Scotland. While the majority of Scotland is a laidback place there are still wonderful restaurants, bars, theaters, and resorts. No matter the destination we always recommend women pack a dress or a romper.

Rompers are probably one of my favorite travel outfits because they’re stylish, comfortable, and practical. You really can’t go wrong here, and I’d suggest throwing at least one or two rompers in your suitcase for Scotland. We love Patagonia’s Fleetwith Romper and Salty Crush dresses for travel!

Black Flats

A pair of black flats is always great to have in a suitcase. They’re stylish comfortable, and they take up minimal space in your luggage. My tip, stay away from heels, many towns have cobblestone streets, and you don’t want to break an ankle trying to look good. Just let the locals impress you with their skills of walking in heels.

Sports Bras

Scotland has several great hikes and adventure activities. I always bring a sports bra when I’m traveling. It’s easy to forget to bring a sports bra as you might not head to the gym, but they’re tremendous for active days. We love sports bras from Handful (Use code TWP20 for 20% off)! Of course, you should pack your usual undergarments like bras and underwear; it’s just easier to forget a sports bra.

Men’s Scotland Packing List

Peacoat

A stylish peacoat will keep you warm. While we love our down jackets for their warmth and convenience, they aren’t the best looking things in the world, and you’d look pretty silly wearing one with a dress or suit.

Dress Shirt/Chinos

You’d look pretty ridiculous wearing a T-shirt or a flannel out to a nice meal in Glasgow. It’s a great idea to travel with at least one nice outfit that fits your style. Your travel plans in Scotland will also have an enormous impact. Western Rise makes travel-specific men’s dress clothes that are wrinkle and stain-resistant. They also make a great gift!

Henley

A henley is a great clothing choice for Scotland. It’s lightweight yet provides some warmth from the wind, and it’s more appropriate than a long sleeve graphic shirt or technical clothing.

Accessories For Scotland

Travel Adaptor

You will need an adaptor for your electronics on your packing list for Scotland. We always keep one handy in our carry-on bags; we can charge electronics on arrival or at the airport. You’ll need the British “Type G” three-prong adaptor for the United Kingdom. However, most of Europe uses the Type C, F, and E adaptor. Check out the one I have, which is suitable for all of Europe.

Sunglasses

Despite preconceived notions, Scotland does occasionally have sunny days. There are a lot of options for sunglasses, and everyone should own at least one pair. It’s best to make sure they do have UV protection for the health of your eyes. We made our first investment in quality polarized sunglasses with a pair of SMITH Optics Lowdown 2. Of course, there are always more affordable options!

Daypack

You’ll need something to stash your photography gear, hand sanitizers, papers, phones, and anything else that you need for a full day out when traveling. As photographers and digital nomads our favorite daypack is from Peak Design.

Travel Towel

We always recommend bringing a travel towel when you’re on the road. Scotland is no exception. If you plan on staying in hostels or more budget accommodation, you’ll often need your towel. Consider a towel essential for your Scotland packing list.

Camera

A high-quality camera is an essential packing item for Scotland if you want some great shots while on your vacation We travel with many cameras. Still, the one we universally recommend is the RX 100. They make several models at different price points, but it’s simple to use a point-and-shoot camera that anyone can operate. It also takes superb images with a 20mp resolution and full manual controls

Kindle Paperwhite

While I love having a perfect book when I sometimes travel, it’s just not practical because of the weight. I’ve recently switched to a Kindle Paperwhite, which is small and compact, plus it has a backlight for reading at night without a harsh glare. It’s tough to beat the feeling of warming up next to a wood stove with a cuppa tea and a good book.

 Portable Charger

I love traveling with a power bank to make sure my phone never dies. Most of the time, I don’t need to use it on long flights as some of the more excellent airlines provide entertainment systems with USB ports! We also make sure to find a charging point during layovers, but getting to a new city without your hotel reservations and map can be a significant pain in the ass.

Scotland Guidebook

We spend enough time attached to our phones in everyday life and planning our trips. Once we reach a destination like Scotland, we put the phone away and pick up a guidebook to help with our trip.

Travel Pillow

We’ve suffered through enough red-eye flights never to forget to pack a travel pillow for international flights. My favorite travel pillow is the Cabeau Evolution Pillow, but we break down more of our favorite travel pillows here.

Packing Cubes

Packing cubes are great for any backpack or suitcase. They keep all of your clothes and toiletries organized. I’ve had these Eagle Creek cubes for three years now and think they were worth the investment to stay organized and create space in my luggage.

Passport Holder

For the women, I suggest traveling with an anti-theft purse that is black and stylish to hold belongings. Cameron has an excellent passport wallet with his passport and credit cards, so he never leaves it anywhere.

Hanging Toiletry Bag

It’s always a good idea to keep your toiletries organized and separated from your clothes. So we love always travel with a toiletry bag; however, Scottish bathrooms can be cramped and small. If you find limited counter space, a great option is to buy a hanging toiletry bag. This bag style tends to have a better organization system with various sections for storage than the traditional option.

You Need This To Travel in Scotland!

Travel Insurance

We never travel without travel insurance with Hey Mondo.  Natasha is a bit of a worrywart and would rather stay safe than sorry. Heymondo offers incredible flexibility and great plans! You never know if the worse could happen while you’re abroad, and your insurance plan at home often will not cover medical emergencies abroad. Having the peace of mind that we have a good backup plan helps us sleep at night.

What Not to Wear in Scotland?

Fanny Pack

It shouldn’t need to be said, but please do not wear a fanny pack.

Athletic Wear

We touched on this earlier, but athletic clothes are meant for the gym or being active. Walking around in a pair of athletic shorts, tank top, or running shoes isn’t common in Scotland, especially in cities. Please don’t get me wrong, you can wear what you want when it’s hot out, but you’ll be pegged as a tourist.

Shorts

For the most part, you’ll find shorts on very few Scottish, as in almost none. That being said, attitudes are changing, and with global warming, I’m sure they’ll warm up to the idea, pun intended.

White Athletic Socks

Europeans don’t often wear white socks. Try to wear patterns, black socks, or to match your socks to your pants.

Packing For Scottish Weather

Scotland is a tiny country; however, regions can vary significantly in weather conditions between short distances. It all has to do with the notoriously unpredictable weather in Scotland.

What to wear in Scotland in the Spring?

The springtime can be one of the best seasons to visit Scotland as temperatures are mild and range from 7°C (45°F) to 13 °C (55°F). It’s an excellent time to catch some sun, but showers are still frequent. As always, you don’t want to be caught without a rain jacket.

What to wear in Scotland in the Summer?

As should be expected, this is the warmest time of year in Scotland. You can expect long summer days as Scotland is extremely high North. Temperatures range on average from 15°C (59°F) to 17°C (63 °F). It’s always a good idea to have some warm weather clothing for outdoor activities during this time.

What to wear in Scotland in the Fall?

Autumn weather is probably the most varied time of year in Scotland and can go from mild and sunny to cold and rainy in a matter of hours. It’s why many people ask us what to wear in Scotland in September. On average temperatures range from 8°C (46°F) to 14°C (57°F).

What to wear in Scotland in the Winter?

Scotland’s weather doesn’t vary all that much. In the wintertime, the average temperature high floats around 5°C (41°F), just above freezing. Snow does fall, but it’s mild in most of the low-lying areas of Scotland. The highlands do receive snow in the higher elevations.

A Few Tips For Your Scotland Trip

When is the Best Time to Visit Scotland?

In my opinion, the best times to visit Scotland is June and September – but it all depends on what you want! June-August is the high season, especially on the North Coast 500 Route, but it is also summer in Scotland, and the cities are buzzing with locals and tourists alike. It’s also the best chance for sunny weather in Scotland.

However, my favorite time to travel to Scotland is during the fall months. It’s during September when you get the last of summer and beautiful food products in season. The cherry on top is that tourism is slowing down and you don’t have so many people at some popular sights.

Freedom to Roam

One thing to know when you take your trip to Scotland is there is no such thing as trespassing. Everyone has the right to roam along the countryside, including farms. The “freedom to roam” is the public’s right to access public or privately owned land for recreation.

It doesn’t include houses, gardens, or military bases, so don’t go squatting on someone’s porch, but it does allow people to enjoy the land and inland water for their well-being. The only stipulation is that you must do so responsibly and safely.

So, mind the sheep and close the gate!

Just a Wee Drink

There are two things you need to know about the people of Scotland. They are some of the friendliest people on earth, and they like to drink. Don’t be surprised when you hear the classic line “oh, it’s just a wee drink” or “how ’bout a wee dram o’ whisky.”

Although Scotch is of national pride and a great spirit, it is not what the Scottish drink every day. The most popular drink these days is gin and beer. So, we got to make friends and relive our days of African safari with some gin & tonics.

What To Pack for Scotland Summary

It’s best not to forget things like medications, toiletries, and other personal items you might need when you travel. However, this is a general Scotland packing list for all to go off of.

Remember that Scotland isn’t the end of the world, and if you forget something when thinking about what to wear in Scotland, it’s likely you’ll be able to find it when you get there. Especially in cities like Edinburgh and Glasgow – you can get anything there that you can back home!

First, we suggest you consider the length of your trip and what time of year you’re heading to Iceland. The key to packing for Iceland is to dress for the weather, from chilly to downright freezing. No matter the time of year, it’s best to pack a shell jacket, down jacket, warm base layer, and a decent pair of boots.

Don’t let any poor weather deter you, though. There’s no bad weather in Iceland, just the wrong clothes. With this packing list, we’re here to help you with what to wear in Iceland.

What to Pack for Iceland Tips

• A lightweight hiking jacket or shell jacket is a staple that should be in every traveler’s luggage, no matter the season. You will 100% want a waterproof jacket in Iceland.
• Packing cubes are excellent at separating dirty clothes from clean clothes or wet from dry. Opt for a packing cube with mesh that will allow wet clothes to dry.
• We love to pack wool base layers such as thermals, socks, and underwear to help fight off the cold.
• A good pair of boots for Iceland is vital as you’ll likely deal with inclement weather and sharp volcanic rock.
• Packing rain pants is always a good idea. We usually try to avoid packing them as they are bulky, but they can be true lifesavers in Iceland.
• A soft side duffel bag or backpack is best if you plan to drive the Ring Road. They’re easier to carry and can squeeze in the back of a car or van.
• When traveling with a warm parka or heavy winter jacket, it’s a good idea to wear the jacket on the plane to save space in your luggage.
• A good toque/hat and gloves are a great way to stay warm without much space.
• Sun protection is a good idea in the summer, so bring sunblock, sunglasses, and possibly UPF clothing.
• Remember that Iceland isn’t the end of the world, and if you forget something, it’s likely you’ll be able to find it in Iceland, though you will probably pay a premium for it.
• We have traveled Iceland three separate times now. On our most recent trip in June, I was optimistic and brought shorts and more “summery” clothing. I never wore any of it. As you’ll see from these photos, we wore many of the same clothing items every day.
• One of my top Iceland travel tips is to check the weather in Iceland on Vedur.is. We found them to give the most accurate forecasts.

The Weather in Iceland

The weather and time of year will have the most significant impact on what you wear in Iceland. Temperatures vary widely, and the seasons can be drastically different. If you need more info, read about the best time of year to visit Iceland.

Iceland’s Seasons

Iceland Packing List Essentials

• Passport – This is obvious, but you won’t make it far without a passport.
• Credit Cards – We use several travel credit cards offering purchase protection, rewards, and no foreign transaction fees.
• Visa – Make sure you have a visa if you need one.
• Debit Cards – It’s good to carry a few Króna in Iceland. We never bother with money exchanges that provide awful exchange rates. Instead, we rely on the ATM when we arrive. Charles Schwab, Ally, and Capital One offer low or no foreign transaction fees. That being said, almost everywhere, and we mean everywhere, accepts cards. On our last trip to Iceland, we never pulled out any cash.
• Driving License – If you plan to rent a car, you will need your driver’s license; a second form of identification never hurts. To drive, you must have a valid license for the last year. An IDP is required if the license is not in the Latin alphabet.

What to Wear in Iceland

Before you pack for Iceland, it’s good to determine what you’ll need for your trip. Travel plans have an enormous impact on this. Whether camping, hiking, horseback riding, sailing, ATV tours, or skiing, Iceland is all about adventures. You’ll likely need some outdoor gear that is well-suited for movement and offers protection from the elements.

There are several staple items that I would recommend everyone bring for their trip to Iceland. Pack functionality with clothes that can serve multiple purposes. Layers are key in Iceland, as the weather and temperatures can change significantly in one day. The right outfit and layers can handle just about any environment or climate.

Wool Sweater

When wondering what to pack for Iceland, you can’t forget this item. If one article of clothing is made for travel in Iceland, it’s the wool sweater. You’ll always want a sweater on your packing list, as the season does not matter. Iceland remains cool year-round, and it’s a great mid-layer in the winter.

A wool sweater is a great travel outfit staple and a classic piece for your closet at home. They’re comfortable, stylish, and warm. I have several sweaters, but my favorites are made with organic materials like wool. Collecting sweaters has become my favorite travel souvenir, and I treasure my Scottish wool and Peruvian Alpaca sweaters.

Iceland has some terrific wool and sweater producers, but you’ll have to pay top dollar to own one. It’s the most common souvenir from Iceland, but they vary significantly in quality and price. We shopped around and found they range from $150 to $400+, with the lower-priced sweaters being mass-produced by a machine abroad.

Shell Jacket

Right after you pack your wool sweater, we suggest you reach for a shell jacket. If we were taking bets, we’d make a substantial wager you’ll see some rain during your trip to Iceland. Iceland is notorious for its wind and rain, and a good shell jacket will help protect you from the elements.

We suggest a packable rain jacket for the outdoors/hiking. Any rain jacket will do, but the top-dollar ones designed for the outdoors will hold up and help in inclement weather. They are lightweight, durable, packable, waterproof, and windproof — the wind may be the most important as it can be unrelenting.

If you’re hesitant to invest in a shell jacket, you can always opt for an affordable poncho. We wouldn’t want to hike in one as they’re terrible at ventilation, but they’re adequate if you only have sightseeing plans. Plus, they can save you when the weather takes a turn for the worst.

Down Jacket

A packable down jacket is an outdoor staple and perfect for any trip to Iceland, no matter the season. They’re warm and provide decent protection against wind. Although down jackets were created for outdoor sports, their comfort and practicality have made them perfect for daily life.

It’s a rare day when the weather is too warm in Iceland to warrant a down jacket. Down jackets are lightweight by design and easy to pack in a backpack or suitcase. We always have one in our luggage on any extended trip.

Goose Down Parka

You’ll freeze your ass off in the winter months if you don’t have the right gear. That being said, Iceland remains manageable for most of the year. In general, you will be able to get by with a lightweight down jacket or a great fleece jacket, as they are warm and lightweight.

However, some places are icy in the winter months in Iceland. We’ve always appreciated a good parka if we plan to watch the Aurora, which often involves standing in the cold at night.

As much as you may want to bring a few different winter jackets for options, it’s best to settle on just one since winter jackets are cumbersome. We have many winter jackets, but our warmest are Triple Fat Goose down parkas.

Flannel Shirt

You’ll never feel out of place in Iceland wearing a flannel. The super comfy top keeps you warm and works as a fabulous mid-layer. As even the summer months are cool in Iceland, it’s always good to pack one.

They’re super easy to style for a relaxed outdoor look, and we often spend our evenings or days lounging around in a flannel. You’re not going to find locals wearing flannel, but the relaxed style matches their sensibilities. When the temperature drops, pairing a flannel with a nice vest is a good look and adds warmth.

Hiking Shirt

At least one hiking shirt that is quick, dry, and anti-microbial should be on your Iceland packing list. This can be either a synthetic blend or a wool shirt. Staying dry is essential when hiking in cold temperatures, as moisture will remove the heat from your body. Plus, if your clothes get soaked, the shirt will dry overnight.

Synthetics are a bit cheaper and lighter, but they are made from plastic and contain chemicals. That being said, they offer exceptional performance. Our favorite synthetic hiking shirts are the Outdoor Research Echo Series. They make a hooded version that is light enough to be worn in the heat with full sun protection! It’s up to your preference on the sleeve length, but we prefer long sleeves in Iceland as it’s never too hot.

Wool shirts are another exceptional option and the more sustainable option. We love wool shirts, and on our last trip, we packed them in addition to our synthetic shirts. Wool shirts are super comfortable and do an incredible job at temperature regulation. Most importantly, as a travel shirt, wool does a much better job of resisting odors. We regularly wear our wool shirts multiple times between washes.

Travel Shirt

A couple of t-shirts are an easy, no-brainer to pack for your trip to Iceland. As you spend the majority of a trip in an outdoor jacket, there is no need for fancy tops or dresses. We love to wear wool travel shirts as they do a better job at moisture management, temperature regulation, and odor resistance. So, they’re pretty much the perfect shirt for Iceland.

We love them for all the same reasons as wool hiking shirts. However, many shirts have an athletic fit that doesn’t always look the best for daily wear. That’s why we have fallen in love with Unbound Merino. They make wool clothes with casual styles for travel. Wool shirts are super soft, and the heavier fabric is more attractive than cotton shirts.

Jeans

Jeans are a fashion staple but aren’t the best packing pants. However, travelers have options, such as DU/ER jeans. The organic cotton jeans look sharp, but the blend of polyester and spandex allows the jeans to stretch. They look like quality stone-washed denim without the weight and stiff feeling.

Fit is exceptional, with a slim fit throughout the leg. You can comfortably wear the jeans on long travel days without any discomfort. Thanks to the synthetic blend, they’re great for lengthy trips as there is no need to wash the jeans. An easy favorite for those when you’re out exploring Iceland, the added water resistance is a huge bonus.

Hiking Pants

With the often wet weather in Iceland, we suggest some technical pants made from synthetic material. Most of these pants are designed for hiking but look casual, such as the Kuhl Renegade and Freeflex pants.

Technical pants are water-resistant, quick-dry, and comfortable. Iceland is all about the landscapes and spending time outside, so a pair of hiking pants should be in your suitcase. If you want to know our favorite hiking pants, we suggest the Fjallraven Keb Trouser. Or you can always hike in shorts!

Rain Pants

In all our time traveling, we’ve never felt a need for rain pants aside from Iceland and Antarctica/Patagonia. While technical hiking pants can easily handle light or brief rain showers, the torrential downpours that hammer Iceland require something more robust.

That’s why we highly recommend rain pants if you’re on a tight schedule and can’t afford to spend a day inside during a trip to Iceland. Amazon has some affordable options if you’re not a serious backcountry enthusiast who needs performance rain pants.

Performance Underwear

You can never have enough underwear or socks. We love wool undergarments on the road as they dry quicker and have antimicrobial qualities. This means they stay fresh longer and keep you more comfortable. After a lot of testing, our favorites are from Icebreaker. They make several versions and cuts for men and women to match personal tastes.

What’s best about wool underwear is that they can be washed in a bathroom sink at night only to dry by morning the next day, so you could feasibly travel with only one or two pairs of underwear. They are pricey, so we can’t don’t recommend everyone replace every pair. We still travel around with several regular cotton undies, but a couple of pairs of these for dirty clothes emergencies come in handy.

Wool Socks

We’ve learned to love our feet with a good pair of socks. You will want to keep your feet dry with all the wet weather in Iceland. Most importantly, wool socks stay fresh for several days as they have natural antimicrobial properties.

We travel with several pairs of wool socks on any trip. They make every style and cut, so finding your desired pair is easy. Our recommendations for socks are Darn Tough, Smartwool, and REI Co-op. If you still want some classic cotton socks, check out Bombas.

Thermal Layers

Thermal underwear is essential to remain warm and dry. Your base layer is the first key to wicking away moisture and keeping your body heat from escaping. We always wear quality base layers when active in cold temperatures like hiking, snowboarding, scrambling, or camping.

For the base layer, we recommend they fit snugly and are made from a noncotton material like nylon or wool. We wear wool thermals from Helly Hansen and Smartwool. You won’t need thermal layers in Iceland during the summer, but it’s a great item to pack for the Fall and Winter. Fall temperatures don’t always warrant thermals; however, it is Northern Lights season, so they’re a welcome layer of warmth on those cold nights.

Bathing Suit

When wondering what to pack for Iceland, a swimsuit may not be on your list – though it should not be forgotten! Soaking in geothermal water is essential to Icelandic culture. Geothermal pools, secret hot springs, five-star spas, and public pools all present an awesome opportunity to get wet.

For a fantastic women’s swimsuit brand, we recommend Londre and Carve Designs. They make high-quality swimsuits for women. Many of their pieces are stylish yet supportive, and I wore them nearly every day while enjoying places like the Vok Baths, Sky Lagoon, Reykjadalur Hot Springs, Myvatn Nature Baths, and Hvammsvik.

Vuori makes fantastic lightweight Cruise Board Shorts in various prints and colors. They’re super comfortable, quickly dry, and the cut is perfect. We don’t like board shorts that are too long or loose, as they look sloppy.

Travel Shoes

A comfortable pair of shoes is always nice when packing your bag for Iceland. You’ll probably spend plenty of days in hiking boots, but it’s nice to give your feet a break.

A comfortable pair of travel shoes that are easy to stash in the bag is a great idea. We love Allbirds as a lightweight shoe, but any comfortable casual shoe will work. A more casual shoe is great for heading to dinner or exploring one of Iceland’s charming towns or the capital city of Reykjavik.

Leather Boots

Another excellent suggestion for footwear is a pair of leather boots. Pack a pair of lightweight hiking boots or leather boots to help cope with all the wet weather. As Iceland is an outdoor destination, you’ll want it to be practical and comfortable.

We recommend boots with a thick sole to protect your feet from sharp volcanic rocks and that the boots have some form of weatherproofing. It’s up to your style preference and plans, but a leather or synthetic hiking boot works best.

We’re active and love hiking, so we packed trail runners and Blundstones on our last trip. The one thing you need to know about footwear is to pack one shoe for casual wear and one that is weatherproof and matches your travel plans.

Scarf, Hat, Gloves

Scarves are a travel staple and a great wardrobe choice for traveling in Iceland. They act as an accessory to your outfit and are super comfortable for an added layer of warmth. Top that off with a good toque and appropriate gloves for the season. It’s three simple things that can make you so much warmer.

They’re all wonderful to have readily available on those blustery Icelandic days. Our favorite part about these three items is they take up little to no room in your luggage. We always recommend these items for cool weather destinations.

What to Pack for Iceland: Accessories

Sunglasses

A stylish pair of sunglasses is an excellent addition to an outfit. Everyone owns at least one pair of sunglasses. However, it’s best to ensure they have UV protection for the health of your eyes. We always travel with two pairs of sunglasses as we’re pretty active. A pair of Smith Optics for hiking and outdoor adventures and a couple of stylish sunglasses to wear at the beach or around town for the day. My stylish ones are Persol, and my Active ones are always the Smith Lowdowns.

Hiking Backpack

A daypack should be enough to hold your belongings if you’re not going on an overnight backpacking adventure. No matter the hike, you will want a daypack to store your belongings. My daypack usually consists of a shell jacket, down jacket, hiking poles, snacks, water, gloves, chapstick, a buff, a camera, a first aid kit, navigation, and an emergency blanket.

While not everyone needs an alpine pack, the key to take away is to opt for the correct size pack. I love a versatile size around the 30L mark if you only have one pack. The size gives enough room for gear-heavy days, but it’s light enough for light short treks or walking around town. Of course, a nice backpack will do the job if you don’t have plans for extensive hikes. I can get around on almost any size day hike with a small 10L multi-sport vest.

Travel Towel

We always recommend you pack a travel towel on the road. Everyone needs a towel in Iceland because of the public pools and hot springs. If you go to a public pool, you will have to shower before entering, and although you can often rent towels, it’s best to have your towel. Plus, you’ll want if you have plans to visit any of the country’s natural hot springs, like the Reykjadalur Hot Spring River.

The biggest complaint about travel towels is that they often feel nothing like the plush cotton towels we are accustomed to at home and in hotels. We picked up the PackTowl you can forget about because they set out to create a towel that mimics its cotton counterparts with the technical features of a travel towel.

Rechargeable Headlamp

A headlamp is always a great idea for packing your bag. We find it most helpful on night walks, searching for the Northern Lights, and at campsites as we drove around the Ring Road in our camper van. So a headlamp for Iceland is super handy. A great option is a rechargeable headlamp like the BioLite 330 or 150.

Travel Adaptor

A universal power adaptor is an essential travel accessory for any trip to Iceland. We recommend picking up one before arriving at your destination. Once at your destination, finding one that is not overpriced or poor quality can be challenging.

Also, I never want to be searching for an adaptor when I have just come off a long travel day and need to plug in my computer. I want to have it with me and ready to go. We’ve tried a bund of adapters, but this one from Ceptics has to be our favorite in our travels. It has multiple plugs and USB ports. It also works as a surge protector.

Kindle Paperwhite

A Kindle is an essential travel accessory for travelers who love to read. As much as we love an actual book, they are too heavy and take up too much room in my suitcase. We recently upgraded to the Kindle Paperwhite and loved it. It’s small, has touchscreen functions, and has a backlight to read at night without a harsh glare. We can’t think of a better way to disconnect in Iclenad than with a good book.

Grayl GeoPress Water Filter & Purifier

A travel water bottle is at the top of our list regarding travel essentials. And when it comes to water bottles, our favorite is the Grayl GeoPress purifier bottle. It saves money, reduces plastic waste, and ensures our water is safe and free of viruses and other waterborne illnesses.

The Grayl bottle is not only practical but also innovative in design. A press-like system effectively filters out sediment, bacteria, and heavy metals, leaving only clean and safe water. Its wide-mouth top makes it easy to drink and fill, and its sleek design fits comfortably in any bag or backpack.

Yes, the water in Iceland is excellent to drink from the tap. However, we would never recommend drinking water from a stream or pond due to livestock without purification/filtration.

Toiletry Bag

Keeping your toiletries organized and separated from your clothes is a great idea. It almost feels like a toiletry bag is essential for any trip. Plus, it’s not uncommon to find small or cramped bathrooms in Iceland.

Buying a hanging toiletry bag is an excellent option if you are limited on counter space. This bag style tends to have a better organization system with various sections for storage than the traditional option. We love the Peak Design Wash Pouch. It contains a hidden hook to hang and features terrific organization.

Power Bank

I love traveling with a power bank to ensure my electronics never die. I usually don’t need to use it on long flights as some new international flights provide entertainment systems with USB ports! (Always make sure your charging cable is handy when boarding the plane)

We also find a charging point during layovers, but getting to a new city without your hotel reservations and map can be a significant pain. I recommend purchasing this power bank because it’s a great value with solid reviews.

Packing Cubes

Packing cubes are phenomenal for the organization of any backpack or suitcase. They are one of those packing essentials that should be in every bag as they keep all of your clothes and toiletries organized. Cubes also keep clothes folded and protect them from wrinkles.

Our favorite packing cubes are from Peak Design. It’s a slick design, and each cube has a divider to separate clean from dirty clothes. This saves the need for additional cubes and makes organization easier.

You Need This To Travel in Iceland!

Travel Insurance

We never travel without travel insurance with Heymondo. With all the risks of travel in a foreign country and insurance coverage, we never have to worry about a good health plan. Heymondo offers incredible flexibility and great plans!

You never know if the worst could happen while you’re abroad, and your insurance plan at home often will not cover medical emergencies abroad. Having the peace of mind with a good backup plan helps us sleep at night.

What Not to Wear in Iceland?

• Cotton Clothing — Iceland is a great place to wear synthetic materials and organic fibers that offer more technical features. We love wool and nylon or polyester for clothing!
• Shorts — You’ll find shorts on very few Europeans. For the most part, Iceland never gets warm enough for you to bust out the shorts. Unless you have plans for trail running or some strenuous hikes, I’d leave them at home.
• Sweatpants — Okay, this should go without saying, but sweatpants are never really that appropriate in public. It seems to be the accepted norm in North America, but everywhere else in the world, they are for home and the gym and that’s it.

A Few Tips For A Trip to Iceland

Reykjavik is an Unconventional Capital City

Even though we used to live in New York City, we’re not city people anymore. We prefer to be off hiking, on a beach, or doing anything else, not in a busy city. However, Reykjavik is not the usual European city, and we enjoyed spending time in the charming city.

There are no high rises and few business suits, just a laid-back atmosphere surrounded by the ocean and mountains. If you only have a few days in Iceland, you can base yourself in Reykjavik and take day trips or catch the local bus to places like Esjan & Glymur.

In my opinion, Reykjavik deserves at least one day of exploration unless you’re there during one of its epic festivals – then definitely stay longer!

Credit Cards!

Never once did we use cash in Iceland. Credit cards are accepted everywhere – even at public bathroom stalls. Of course, it never hurts to have cash on you, but I wouldn’t convert much of it to Icelandic Kroner. If you need tips for travel banking we have a post.

We suggest you carry around 5,000 ISK to get out of any unknown situations. Make sure to get yourself a credit card that doesn’t have any foreign transaction fees and provides you travel rewards for using it. Here are a few of our favorite credit cards for travel.

Book a Camper!

A campervan is the best way to get around Iceland on a budget. While a camper is slightly more expensive than a car, you can sleep and cook in it! You don’t have to search for hotels or deal with expensive restaurants in Iceland.

Plus, you sleep in nature every night and still use a heater if you wish! If you want to travel with a Happy Campers van as we did, read our full review. You can easily book using this link, but make sure to book well in advance during the high season.

Iceland is Expensive!

Iceland is expensive. One of the most expensive countries in the entire world. Make sure that you plan accordingly and stay in line with your budget. It’s certainly possible to do Iceland on a budget of less than $100 if you are camping, cooking all your meals, traveling by public transport, or scoring a good deal on a rental.

The good news is that nature is free, and you’ll be able to see Iceland’s beauty without paying for it. So yes – it’s completely doable to have an affordable Iceland vacation.

If you plan on drinking, pick your duty-free alcohol before you leave the airport. A pint of beer can easily run you $15-$20!

Packing for Italy does come with some difficulties. Appearance is essential in Italy, but you’ll want to balance practicality with styles as the cities and towns are best explored on foot. To make it more difficult, the climate and seasons across the country vary a lot.

We have now visited Italy over ten times, always in a different season and different destination, and find that the best solution is to keep it simple with clothes and prepare for various activities and social functions. Staple items in your wardrobe can be mixed and matched to create a variety of outfits. In Italy, we stand at the espresso bar, don’t order cappuccinos after noon, and dress to kill.

What’s The Weather Like in Italy?

Most of Italy enjoys a Mediterranean climate with mild and rainy winters. Summer in Italy is sunny, hot, and dry. However, with 4,000 miles of coastline and rugged mountains, the weather varies significantly from the beaches of Sicily in the south to the Dolomites in the north.

In the Dolomites and northern Italy, summers are hot, with temperatures in the mid-20sC (80F) on the valley floors. High altitudes and towns receive cooler weather. Winter in the mountains sees a good mix of sunshine and snow with temperatures around freezing.

Central Italy, Rome, Tuscany, and Umbria have hot summer temperatures around 30C (90F). Winter weather sees temperatures around 5-10C (40-50F) and frequent rain showers. There is also the occasional dusting of snow, mainly on mountains and hilltops.

Southern Italy’s weather patterns are very similar to Central Italy, but everything is just a bit warmer. This means even more mild winters and hotter summers. The region rarely has snow or ice.

It’s best to check the weather a week before your trip to get an idea of what the temperatures will be like during your trip. Also, make sure to check all of the regions you plan to visit. Italy is a vast country, and the weather in the north may be much different than in the south.

Seasons in Italy

Quick Tips On Packing For Italy

• Appearance and style are important to Italians. However, they don’t all look like the inside of a fashion magazine. Instead, staple items are what you’ll find most people wear in Italy.
• Pack light if you plan to travel around Italy on your own. Narrow staircases, cobblestone streets, and uneven sidewalks are very common!
• A fantastic outfit is always nice to have in Italy. Ladies can pack that gorgeous cocktail dress and men a stylish suit. Nothing beats a good night out in Italy!
• Adventure clothes such as hiking footwear and sportswear are great for activities.
• A conservative outfit is needed if you plan to visit churches and cathedrals. That means both men and women cover their knees and shoulders to enter.
• Linen shirts rarely feel out of place. Men can wear these shirts every day in the summer. Perfect for the Amalfi Coast or Sicily.
• Packing cubes help separate damp and dirty clothes from clean ones.
• Sun protection is always a good idea, whether sunblock, hats, or UPF clothing.
• Three pairs of shoes are the max you should pack. A dressy shoe, sandals, and athletic shoes for activities or hikes.
• How to dress in Italy depends on where you are traveling. Italy has many different styles, and what you typically might wear in Sicily varies significantly from what you should pack for Milan. Keep your Italian destinations in mind when packing for Italy.

What Luggage To Bring To Italy?

Hardshell Suitcase

Travel Backpack

I have two bag recommendations for a trip to Italy. You can opt for a traditional hardshell suitcase with four wheels or a travel backpack. Suitcases with four wheels are best as the ability to roll sideways down the aisle of a train or a sidewalk makes life a lot easier.

We prefer hardshell as it does a better job at protection and security. Our favorite hardshell suitcase is the Delsey Helium Aero 25″. Italy can measure its history in millennia, so roads and populations are naturally dense and congested. This means it can be challenging to get around with a clunky suitcase if you have plans to take public transport.

Travel backpacks are great for young backpackers, digital nomads, or minimalists! They are also great if you want to save on any checked bag fees your air carrier may charge. Packing cubes are phenomenal at organizing and separating dirty clothes, and our favorites are from Peak Design.

If paying for taxis or car rentals makes you hesitant, you’ll want to book accommodation near public transport or have a backpack. The Osprey travel backpacks, men’s Farpoint, and women’s Fairview are our favorites. For more suggestions, read our post on the best backpacks for Europe.

The Essential Documents To Pack

• Passport – This is obvious, but you won’t make it far without a passport.
• Credit Cards – We use several travel credit cards that offer purchase protection, rewards, and no foreign transaction fees.
• Visa – Make sure you have a visa if you need one. USA, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand all receive a free 90-day visa on arrival to the Schengen Area.
• Debit Cards – It’s good to carry euros in Italy. We never bother with money exchanges that provide awful exchange rates. Instead, we rely on the ATM when we arrive. Charles Schwab, Ally, and Capital One offer low or no foreign transaction fees.
• Driving License – If you plan to rent a car, you need your driver’s license. Plus, having a second form of I.D. never hurts.
• IDP – Besides a driving license, you may need an IDP. However, this is super subjective to the rental agency. I’ve rented a car numerous times with and without it.

What to Wear In Italy

You can apply some easy rules, though. Italians do not dress as casually as North Americans, but that doesn’t mean you must wear a suit or dress daily. We suggest casual clothing with comfortable footwear. The key to packing is clothes that can serve multiple purposes.

We like to pack clothes in classic, versatile colors that allow us to mix and match outfits. You can adjust to various weather and climates by throwing in some layers. A traveler should be able to dress for almost any setting or weather if done right.

What To Wear In Summer

Dressing well in the summertime isn’t rocket science. We both choose timeless clothing items when traveling around Italy and Europe. I opt for an effortless dress with a classic cut in neutral colors.

Combine that with a small handbag, black flats, and a nice pair of sunglasses you’ve got the perfect summer outfit. Men have it easy, as Cameron loves to wear either chinos or jeans with a classic white T-shirt or dress shirt and an accessory like a nice watch.

What To Wear In Winter

Sticking to the classics is always the best way to tackle the winter weather. We like to bring two coats for the winter because we’re active travelers. We both pack our favorite down jackets for hiking or winter activities.

For walking around cities, we both like a classic black overcoat. Maybe it’s the New Yorker left in us. Other staples like a lovely scarf and the proper boots can make your outfit and keep you warm.

T-Shirt or V Neck

A classic tee will never go out of style. We suggest sticking with solid colors like black, white, or grey. We recommend you keep it simple when it comes to tees. Our favorite color is a light heather grey as it’s easy to stain white. One of our favorite menswear companies, Western Rise, creates tremendous travel shirts. They utilize synthetic and natural materials for travel apparel that holds up to the rigors of travel.

The X Cotton Tee looks like a classic cotton tee, but the synthetic materials in the fabric allow it to stretch and resist odors. However, their latest wool shirt, the StrongCore Merino Tee, brings all the advantages of natural wool. Wool is a worthy investment and makes for one of the best pieces of travel clothes. Wool shirts stay fresh longer and do an excellent job at temperature management. Women should check out Unbound Merino for their wool t-shirts.

Travel Shorts

You’ll want some shorts for your trip to Italy if it’s summertime. Italians are not opposed to shorts, especially given the heatwaves in recent years. Shorts are also easy to pack as they take up less space in your luggage and can be easily washed.

I like to pack two or three pairs for versatility, such as gym, Bermuda, and technical travel shorts. Shorts are one of those items I find acceptable as cheap cotton items. We’ve tested a lot of travel shorts out and only been impressed by a handful.

Our recommendations for men’s shorts are the Western Rise Evolution, Quicksilver Amphibian, and Outlier OG Freeway. Recommendations for women include the prAna Elle Short, Lululemon Cinchable Waist Shorts, prAna Kanab, and Patagonia Baggies. We suggest whatever suits your style and recommend they do not involve cargo pockets.

Activewear

Many outdoor activities in Italy require some activewear to enjoy. So, when you’re wondering what to wear in Italy, consider packing at least one active outfit. Not to mention, it’s great to stay in shape while traveling. Bring a good hiking backpack or vest to hike in the Dolomites. The photo above is from the Path of the Gods on the Amalfi Coast, so activewear is not limited to Northern Italy.

Several daypacks for travel will work nicely on a hike or in the city. As for the shoes, we’re pretty loyal to the ultra trail running Salomon Speedcross shoes, but we recommend the more versatile adidas Ultraboost for everything else. Regarding clothing, we love Outdoor Research Echo Shirts. Women won’t forget a sports bra; our favorites are from Handful (Use code TWP20 for 20% off).

Linen Shirt

I love the look of linen when traveling around the Mediterranean, and it’s popular with Italians. Linen is as practical as it is stylish. It’s great as it tends to dry faster, feel lighter, and cope with sweat better than its cotton counterparts. The fabric has a long history with Italy and was even worn by the ancient Romans.

Pair a linen shirt with sandals, shorts, jeans, or shoes, or even go barefoot. It’s a versatile shirt that looks great on both sexes and works at the beach or a restaurant. They’re the perfect shirt for summer in Southern Italy. It’s tough to find decent linen shirts online, but we love the quality of Everlane’s linen shirts.

Jeans

Jeans are a fashion staple but aren’t the best packing or most comfortable travel pants. However, travelers have options such as DU/ER jeans. The organic cotton jeans look sharp, but a subtle blend of polyester and spandex allows the jeans to stretch and resist wrinkles.

Fit is exceptional, with a slim fit throughout the leg. You can comfortably wear the jeans on long travel days without any discomfort. Thanks to the synthetic blend, they’re great for lengthy trips as there is no need to wash the jeans.

Travel Pants

A pair of chinos or travel pants are great for traveling around Italy. Our first choice is a reliable pair of “travel pants” with synthetic materials. These pants are often stain-resistant, dry quickly, weigh less, remain fresh for multiple wears, and are more comfortable than traditional pants or chinos.

We love that these technical pants, previously only made for hiking, now resemble chinos. It’s a classic pant that goes with a sweater, dress shirt, t-shirt, or blouse. When choosing a color, try to match the destination and season. However, light tan pants tend to be the most versatile.

For women, we suggest the Kuhl Freeflex Pants for outdoor adventures and the Everlane Utility Barrel Pants for a more stylish city/town look. As for a beach look in Italy, the best we have found is the Fernie Pants from prAna. Men should check out the KUHL Renegade Rock Pants for outdoor adventures and the Western Rise Evolution 2.0 Pants for everything else, beach pants are always the staple prAna Vaha pants. Cameron spends most of his days in clothing from Western Rise, and men can not go wrong with their wardrobe staples.

swimsuit

Italy has some of the best beaches and seaside towns in the world. When you add the fantastic spas, hot springs, rivers, and pools, there is no shortage of places to swim in Italy. A swimsuit is an obvious addition to any packing list.

For a fantastic women’s swimsuit brand, we recommend Left on Friday (use code Natasha10 for 10% off) and Carve Designs. They make high-quality swimsuits for women. Many of their pieces are stylish yet supportive. So if you plan to go surfing, bodyboarding, kitesurfing, or play beach volleyball and want to ensure your ta-tas stay intact, these swimsuits are for you.

Vuori makes fantastic lightweight Cruise Board Shorts in various prints and colors. They’re super comfortable, quickly dry, and the cut is perfect. We don’t like board shorts that are too long or loose, as they look sloppy.

Wool Sweater

Sweaters are a great travel outfit staple for Italy. They’re comfortable, stylish, and warm. We love to pack a comfy sweater for Italy during the fall and winter. However, leaving it at home is easy when traveling in the summer. We suggest a light sweater for the Dolomites in the summer.

I have several sweaters, but my favorites are organic materials like wool or Alpaca. It’s become my favorite travel souvenir, and I treasure my Scottish wool and Peruvian Alpaca sweaters.

Travel Jacket

If you plan to head to the Italian Alps, having something with a bit of warmth is never a bad idea. A light windbreaker jacket will help, especially in the summer when it can still be chilly. We suggest a hard-shell hiking jacket for the outdoors/hiking.

They are lightweight, durable, packable, waterproof, and windproof. Any rain jacket will do, but the top-dollar ones designed for the outdoors will hold up and help in inclement weather. They also do an exceptional job at blocking the wind, which can be unrelenting.

Wool Underwear

You can never have enough underwear or socks. We love wool undergarments on the road as they dry quicker and have antimicrobial qualities. This means they stay fresh longer and keep you more comfortable. After a lot of testing, our favorites are from Icebreaker. They make several versions and cuts for men and women to match personal tastes.

What’s best about wool underwear is that they can be washed in a bathroom sink at night only to dry by morning the next day, so you could feasibly travel with only one or two pairs of underwear. They are pricey, so we can’t don’t recommend everyone replace every pair. We still travel around with several regular cotton undies, but a couple of pairs of these for dirty clothes emergencies come in handy.

Wool Socks

We’ve learned to love our feet with a good pair of socks. You will want to keep your feet dry while walking around. Most importantly, wool socks stay fresh for several days as they have natural antimicrobial properties.

We travel with several pairs of wool socks on any trip. They make every style and cut, so finding your desired pair is easy. Our recommendations for socks are Darn Tough, Smartwool, and REI Co-op. If you still want some classic cotton socks, check out Bombas.

Comfortable Shoes

On every packing list for Italy should be a pair of comfortable shoes. Hitting the sidewalk and letting a city unfurl around you is one of the best ways to get familiar with a beautiful European city. A comfortable pair of shoes is essential when packing your bag for Italy. However, I wouldn’t recommend packing clunky hiking shoes or athletic shoes many tourists like to bring. You’ll stand out like a sore thumb in Italy.

Italians are not opposed to sneakers, just trainers outside the gym, so opting for a pair of casual sneakers is excellent. Considering most towns and cities in Italy are walkable, be prepared to spend time in them. We love to wear our Allbirds, but any comfortable casual shoe will work.

Sandals

Sandals are meant for the beaches in Italy, especially for men. However, with all of the gorgeous beaches in Italy, sandals are acceptable beach attire, and they’re far more comfortable on the sand. For nights out on the town, we advise men to wear shoes. However, stylish sandals are great for women, no matter the time. We both travel with sandals from Olukai that have lasted for years.

They are sandals with leather accents and feel stylish enough. They’re super comfortable, too, and they get us around the beach. Women should also check out the Sanuk Yoga Sling for an affordable, lightweight, stylish sandal.

Leather Boots

Regarding cool temperatures in Italy, we love to wear our Blundstones. Women can wear them with chinos and a blouse, while men can pair them with just about anything from jeans to a suit.

You’ll be ready to climb the Alps, stroll through The Louvre, or eat to your heart’s content in Italy with the proper boots. Boots are seasonal, and I’ll leave mine at home for a trip to Italy in the summer. However, any other time of year, Chelsea boots are the perfect footwear.

Sunglasses

A stylish pair of sunglasses is an excellent addition to an Italian outfit. Everyone owns at least one pair of sunglasses. However, it’s best to ensure they have UV protection for the health of your eyes. We always travel with two pairs of sunglasses as we’re pretty active. A pair of Smith Optics for hiking and outdoor adventures and a couple of stylish sunglasses to wear at the beach or around town for the day.

As sunglass snobs, we love the classic styles of Persols and Raybans. There are no better fashion accessories that are critical to your eye health. We cannot imagine traveling anywhere without a pair of sunglasses.

What Women Should Wear In Italy

Versatile Dress

For those hot Italian summers, a comfortable sundress is a tremendous idea. Not only is it more comfortable, but it’s also cute. Ladies, it’s the perfect time to bust out your favorite summer dress. My favorite sites for dress shopping are Salty Crush and Free People.

My only recommendation is to avoid the ridiculous gowns that you see on social media. Another great option is a black dress for nights out. Dresses are a travel staple and occupy almost no room in your suitcase.

Romper/Overalls

Rompers are our favorite travel outfits for women because they’re stylish, comfortable, and practical. You can’t go wrong here, and we suggest throwing at least one or two rompers in your suitcase for Italy. They’re great for a night and super cute for casual days. We love Patagonia’s Fleetwith Romper and prAna Railay for travel, but you can shop on Free People for more great options.

Tank Tops

A few comfortable tank tops or camis are perfect for summer. Pack solid colors so that they can work with everything. They’re super functional clothes worn under a blouse or alone with jeans or capris. Recently, Tasha has started traveling with Honeylove bodysuits and loves them for travel. Classic colors like black and white go with any bottom – pant, skirt, or shorts and look sleek when abroad!

Sunhat

It gets sunny in Italy; unless you’re walking around museums, you will be outside most of the day. Make sure to protect your face with a nice sun hat. Try to keep it in a suitable size that travels well. If you pack a large hat, it will always be in your way, and you’ll likely ditch it by the end of your trip.

Black Flats

A pair of black flats is always great to have in a suitcase. They’re stylish and comfortable and take up minimal luggage space. Stay away from heels; many towns in Italy have uneven streets, and you don’t want to break an ankle trying to look good. Just let the locals impress you with their skills of walking in heels.

Handbag

Italians love their accessories, and that does not stop with the handbag. It’s a good idea to bring a medium-sized bag that can hold a few essentials and still have a little room for souvenirs. The Le Pilage is an iconic travel tote from the luxury bag brand Longchamp. It’s a classic carry that offers as much function as it does style. Thanks to its use of nylon and structure, the bag can fold to the size of a paperback book.

A Shawl

There are many churches in Italy, so a shawl is a great item to cover your shoulders when entering a cathedral or church. This is important if you visit the Vatican or Italy’s religious sites. Shawls or scarves are fabulous for travelers. They can spice up an outfit you’ve already worn three days in a row and can be thrown into a bag or purse to pull out when the sun sets and the weather gets chilly.

What Men Should Wear In Italy

Dress Shirt & Chinos

Italian men are often just as well dressed as women—pack at least one dress shirt for a trip to Italy. Wear these in conjunction with linen shirts. A solid dress shirt has more structure and feels more appropriate for nice evenings and restaurants. The type or age of the travelers doesn’t matter either, as almost everyone will find use in a dress shirt.

Bluffworks makes travel dress shirts that resist wrinkles but lack a cotton shirt’s structure. A classic cotton dress shirt works since they aren’t worn during the day’s heat. Spier & Mackay, Taylor Stitch, and Banana Republic dress shirts offer great value and look sharp. If you’re worried about that heat, try a Liberty print dress shirt for a comfortable summer look.

Suit

If there ever were a destination that demands a suit, it would be Italy. Whether standing at a cafe bar, tasting Sangiovese, sitting down for a fantastic meal, or catching a show at the Teatro Alla Scala, there is no denying it’s best done in a suit. Just like out of an old Italian film, having a suit for those special evenings or days in Italy is a must.

For Italian summer fashion, linen suits are loved by locals, and you’ll look right at home in one. However, it’s well known that blue is the most versatile suit color. Just make sure it is well-fitted. Of course, you won’t fit a suit in a backpack.

Consider this an essential for travelers in a proper suitcase. I wouldn’t say it’s the finest suit in the world, but Bluffworks makes a pretty sharp-looking travel suit that can admirably survive travel demands. I buy my real suits from Spier & Mackay for a half-canvas or full-canvas construction that falls wonderfully.

Italy Packing List for Summer

Travel Towel

We always recommend bringing a travel towel when you’re on the road. Italy is no exception. Backpackers will need one if they plan to stay in hostels. Also, if you head to the beach or on a hike, having a towel in your day bag never hurts. Consider a towel one of your necessities for backpacking Italy.

The biggest complaint about travel towels is that they often feel nothing like the plush cotton ones we are accustomed to at home and in hotels. However, with the PackTowl, you can forget about all of that because they set out to create a towel that mimics its cotton counterparts with the technical features of a travel towel.

Sunscreen

Skin cancer is for real! Don’t forget your SPF during the summer. Order some online before leaving the house, as you need it underneath the sun. Sunscreen is one of those things to remember to pack when traveling to Italy, as it’s easy to forget.

We highly recommend getting an eco-friendly sun cream; Sun Bum is our favorite and does not contain harmful chemicals. They’re mineral-based and usually only cost a few dollars more to help protect our oceans. If you’re not swimming in the ocean or lakes, go with a reliable name brand. You can learn more about eco-friendly travel products here!

Canvas Beach Tote

No matter what, you will need a beach bag when heading to the beach. This is to throw in anything like towels, books, speakers, sunglasses, snacks, and sunscreen. As full-time travelers, we often use our daypacks for trips to the beach since a travel tote is unnecessary.

However, it’s tough to beat a standard canvas tote as they travel well and can fold flat/lie in your luggage. They aren’t just great for the beach but tremendous for local markets and shopping. As more travelers stay in Airbnb rentals, they cook and visit local markets on the road.

Winter Italy Packing List Items

Overcoat

It depends on where you’re traveling, but most of Italy’s cities are stylish. Overcoats are great jackets to wear in Italy. They provide warmth and look fabulous. While we love our down jackets and parkas for their warmth and convenience, they aren’t the best looking, and you’d look pretty silly wearing one with a dress or suit.

Thermal Layers

Thermal underwear is essential to remain warm and dry. Your base layer is the first key to wicking away moisture and keeping your body heat from escaping. We always wear quality base layers when active in cold temperatures like hiking, snowboarding, scrambling, or camping.

For the base layer, we recommend they fit snugly and are made from a noncotton material like nylon or wool. We wear wool thermals from Helly Hansen, Smartwool, and yak wool from Kora. When not traveling, we snowboard around 75 days every season, so we know thermals well. Helly Hansen’s Lifa Base Layers are the best bang for your buck and will last forever.

Scarf, Hat, Gloves

This is a travel staple and a great wardrobe choice for women and men traveling in Italy. They act as an accessory to your outfit and are super comfortable, giving you an added layer of warmth. Regarding fashion and comfort, cool weather in Italy is all about layering.

With such a varied climate, you must consider your itinerary and time of year. In most of Italy’s cities, I’d suggest a stylish pair of gloves with e-tips. If you get lost, the e-tips or e-touch is essential as you’ll often have to look at your phone when exploring a new city for directions.

Accessories For Italy

Italian Guidebook

We spend enough time attached to our phones in everyday life and planning our trips. Once we reach a destination like Italy, we put the phone away and pick up a guidebook to help with our trip.

Daypack

You’ll need something to stash your photography gear, hand sanitizers, papers, phones, and anything else for a full day out when traveling. We’ve tested out a ton of daypacks and backpacks over the years, and our favorite is from Peak Design.

Granted, the most Italian way of doing things is not to carry a backpack. As photographers, we always need a daypack for travel, but we leave it in the hotel room most days when exploring Italy.

Toiletry Bag

We suggest you keep your toiletries organized and separated from your clothes. It almost feels like a toiletry bag is essential for any trip. Plus, it’s not uncommon to find small or cramped bathrooms in Italy.

Buying a hanging toiletry bag is an excellent option if you are limited on counter space. This bag style tends to have a better organization system with various sections for storage than the traditional option. We love the Peak Design Wash Pouch. It contains a hidden hook to hang and features terrific organization.

Water bottle

It is important to travel with fresh water in hand as it is easy to get dehydrated when out. We like to use insulated stainless steel water bottles because they keep drinks cool. Carrying a water bottle is great for the environment as it reduces plastic waste.

Our favorite is the Grayl GeoPress purifier bottle. A purifier helps save money, reduces plastic waste, and guarantees that our water is safe and free of viruses and other waterborne illnesses. Purification is unnecessary in most of Italy, but we always have it for an impromptu trip to somewhere more remote, and they’re great for hiking.

Leaf Shave Safety Razor

Alright, alright, I know this is not a clothing item but I wanted to mention it as I love this travel razor and bring it with me on literally all my trips!

Leaf Shave razors are an excellent option for the bathroom to help reduce waste. Never buy those cheap plastic razors again; invest in a lifelong earth-friendly product good for trips – or when you travel! Leaf Shave razors use recyclable steel razors that are compact and far more affordable than disposable razors.

Not only are the razors far more attractive in your bathroom, but they perform much better. They can achieve a far closer shave which means less razor burn. The one downside is they are far easier to cause a knick, but with some care and practice, they’re easy to use.

Packing Cubes

Packing cubes are phenomenal for the organization of any backpack or suitcase. They are one of those packing essentials that should be in every bag as they keep all of your clothes and toiletries organized. Cubes also keep clothes folded and protect them from wrinkles.

Our favorite packing cubes are currently from Peak Design. It’s a slick design, and each cube has a divider to separate clean from dirty clothes. This saves the need for additional cubes and makes organization easier.

Jewelry Case

We don’t travel with all our best jewelry for obvious reasons, but that doesn’t mean we don’t travel with any jewelry in Italy. We love having necklaces, bracelets, rings, and earrings when we dress up on the road. A travel jewelry box is the best way to keep this jewelry safe and organized!

Passport Wallet

A travel passport wallet is an affordable travel essential. Your passport is a vital travel document you must carry for a decade. Protect your passport in a wallet to ensure its longevity and save the headache of replacing it. Several options can protect the passport or replace your wallet. We recommend a great wallet from Herschel Supply Co.

Earplugs

These are small but essential travel necessities for Italy as they can be crucial to your sleep. Whether flying in business class or in a hostel, a good pair of earplugs will help you sleep. You also never know if you may have noisy neighbors or have a room on the ground. When you need them, they are a lifesaver.

Electronics To Pack For Italy

Travel Adaptor

A universal power adaptor is essential for any trip to Italy. We recommend picking up one before arriving in the country. Once in Italy, finding one that is not overpriced or poor quality can be challenging.

Also, I never want to be searching for an adaptor when I have just come off a long travel day and need to plug in my computer. I want to have it with me and ready to go. We’ve tried a bunch of adapters, but this one from Ceptics has to be our favorite in our travels. It has multiple plugs and USB ports. It also works as a surge protector.

Kindle Paperwhite

While I love having a good real book when I travel, sometimes it’s just not practical because of the weight — keep them at home. If you plan to island-hop, you’ll want to pack fairly light. A Kindle is an essential travel accessory for travelers who love to read. As much as we love an actual book, they are too heavy and take up too much room in my suitcase. We love the Kindle Paperwhite as it’s small and has a backlight to read at night without a harsh glare.

Anker Power Bank

I love traveling with a power bank to ensure my electronics never die. I usually don’t need to use it on long flights as some new international flights provide entertainment systems with USB ports! Always make sure your charging cable is handy when boarding the plane.

We also find a charging point during layovers, but getting to a new city without your hotel reservations and map can be a significant pain. I recommend purchasing this power bank because it’s a great value with solid reviews.

You Need This To Travel in Italy!

Travel Insurance

We never travel without travel insurance with Heymondo. With all the risks of travel in a foreign country and insurance coverage, we never have to worry about a good health plan. Heymondo offers incredible flexibility and great plans!

You never know if the worst could happen while you’re abroad, and your insurance plan at home often will not cover medical emergencies abroad. Having peace of mind with a good backup plan helps us sleep at night.

What Not to Pack For Italy

You’ll likely be spotted as a tourist anyway, so don’t stress over how to dress in Italy. It’s also worth noting there are many regional differences as the country is culturally diverse. You won’t know the cultural norms unless you’re a repeat visitor.

There aren’t any rules on clothing in Italy, and we’ve rarely felt out of place. The idea of being treated as an “Ugly American” tourist has much to do with the individual travelers and their attitudes. Approach Italy open-mindedly, and you’ll receive the same treatment no matter what you wear.

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Tons of Cash

If I can give you just one packing tip for Italy, it would be to chill out on the cash. Travel to Italy with enough money to get you by for a day or so. We don’t recommend you travel with excessive cash in your luggage.

ATMs are prevalent everywhere and often give a flat exchange rate. Also, avoid ATMs that official banks do not operate as they utilize shady menus and practices to provide garbage exchange rates. This saves you the liability of walking around with tons of cash.

Travel Banking Tips

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Bright Neon Colors

Before I left for my first trip worldwide, I colored my hair brown to “blend in.” While I wanted to blend in, I still brought hot pink and lime green shirts to Denmark, Germany, and Holland. I stuck out like a sore thumb. Neutral colors work best. And don’t color your hair darker, like twenty-year-old me!

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Flashy Jewelry

When you travel anywhere, we suggest leaving valuable jewelry at home. When you travel with expensive items, save them for special occasions and store them in the hotel safe. Sometimes, we store large sums of cash or expensive items in the hotel’s master safe.

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White Athletic Socks

Italians do not wear tall white socks or mid-calf socks with shorts. Try to wear patterns and black socks, or match your socks to your pants and shoes.

What To Pack for Italy

You don’t need to pack everything on this list! There are no hard rules here, and packing doesn’t need to be stressful, nor do you need to buy all new stuff. We have a lot of suggestions, and we’re certain you’ve got similar items in your closet at home. Many obvious things are missing, like a toothbrush, cosmetics, or your passport!

I advise packing a few wardrobe staples and going easy on the luggage. It will keep your luggage light while having a multitude of outfits for different occasions. The key is finding versatile items and having an idea of the season/climate of your trip. Everyone has a different style and plans!

Tips For Visting Italy

Check out a handful of tips for your first trip to Italy, or you can catch more on our full blog post for more great tips.

Once you get outside South Africa and African capital cities, it will be hard to replenish your wardrobe and even a little challenging to stock up on essentials, so you will want to ensure you arrive with the necessities. Many African cities have all the modern conveniences you would come to expect anywhere in the world. However, it can be challenging to find a lot of items in the more rural areas where many travelers head.

This Africa packing list is a guide for everyday travel around Africa. We traversed the continent, visiting nearly 20 countries, and have spent almost two years traveling around Africa. After all that time, we have nailed down what to pack for Southern, North, and Eastern Africa.

Tips For Your Africa Packing List

Africa is a huge and vast continent, and naturally, the climate varies a LOT based on the season and location. You have probably seen the movies about Africa where people are decked out in khaki, a pith safari hat, and binoculars. However, the truth is you probably won’t need any of that gear unless you are in the bush or on safari. Don’t worry if that is you – we have safari clothes covered here!

• Pack light if you plan to backpack, as travel days can be long in Africa. You’re more likely to regret packing too much than too little.
• Mesh/breathable packing cubes help separate damp and dirty clothes from clean ones.
• Sun protection is always a good idea, whether that is sunblock, hats, or UPF clothing.
• Adventure clothes such as hiking footwear and active clothes are great.
• Bring any essential toiletries or medications you may need.
• Shower sandals are always handy to have to protect your feet.
• Dark shades of blue attract the dreaded tsetse fly, found throughout pockets of Africa. So it’s best to try and avoid this color.
• Africa has some tremendous diving and reefs, but we suggest you pack reef-safe sunscreen to help preserve the reefs.
• Most of Africa dresses conservatively, so it’s best to dress sensibly and leave the booty shorts at home.
• Be sure to note what time of year you are traveling to Africa. The rainy season in Southern Africa varies greatly from the rainy season in Eastern Africa. If you are traveling during the rainy season a rain jacket is essential.

What To Wear in Africa

Hiking Shoes or Boots

A reliable pair of shoes is perhaps the most essential thing to pack in your bag. An excellent recommendation for a boot or shoe is the Merrell Moab. They’re dependable, comfortable, and, most importantly, a good value. If you want more classic options, we have a post on the best safari boots.

A good pair of shoes is worth their weight in gold because if you are anywhere outside South Africa, a quality pair of hiking shoes will be hard to come by. If you plan to walk around a lot, get thick rubber-soled shoes, as acacia thorns are prone to stab through thin shoes.

Shower Shoes

Some shower shoes to escape nasty floors are vital unless you’re staying only in five-star resorts and safari lodges. It also helps with the journey to shower if you’re camping, as you’ll often be walking around a lot outside. We even stayed at a few high-end safari lodges that were rustic with outdoor bathrooms, where we appreciated having sandals.

Sandals

You won’t want to live in hiking shoes, and you certainly don’t want to live in rubber shower shoes. A good pair of sandals is great for comfort on long travel days and under the hot African sun, like in Namibia or Egypt. Like the locals, we spend 90% of our time in a pair of sandals when traveling around Africa.

I travel with my Rainbow leather flip-flops as well as my Teva Hurricanes, which get me through anything. he only time we opt for our boots is on bush walks, long hikes, and dirty streets.

Sarong

You will 100% be able to buy this from the local women and markets. African Batik fabric prints are all over the continent, and many cultures love to dress in fantastic colors. Sarongs are great for just about anything. You can use them to cover up at the beach, dry off after a shower, or wear them as a cute skirt. It’s even common for men to wear them at night when relaxing.

Keep in mind most Africans dress conservatively, so it’s best to have a decent length in the sarong. You do not need to pack this as it’s easy to find, but if you want one before you land, you can grab one easily online.

Hiking Pants

Lightweight pants made from synthetic material are tremendous to have in your pack. It’s what we wear most days when traveling around Africa as they’re comfortable, antibacterial, and protect our legs from mosquitos (malaria). We recommend neutral-colored pants as they’re great at hiding dirt and can match most shirt colors. What’s great is they’re useful beyond Africa as they are a travel staple, and we pack a pair everywhere we travel.

We love the pants from Kuhl. The Men’s Renegade and Women’s Freeflex are tremendous pairs of hiking pants at a reasonable price. They’re durable for how lightweight they are, perfect if you’re doing volunteer work or on more of an adventure. They also happen to be some of our favorite pants for safari.

Loose Pants

I love to wear relaxed pants when I travel. I’ve tried a bunch of pants and have fallen in love with a lightweight hiking pants called the Trailhead from Coalatree. Another great other option is the prAna Summit pants. These pants are seriously amazing! Packing loose or relaxed cotton pants would also be a good idea.

They are perfect for Africa, especially in the more conservative countries when it’s hot out. The men are lucky with the prAna Vaha pants. They are made from a hemp blend, the perfect material that feels stylish and comfortable.

Comfortable Shorts

A pair of comfortable shorts will keep you cool in the African heat. We consider them to be a staple men’s and women’s travel clothing item. The vast majority of days, you can find us in shorts as they are much more comfortable than pants. The standard outfit for us in Africa was a pair of shorts, a T-shirt, and sandals, if we’re honest.

If you’re worried about Malaria, remember that most mosquito bites occur at dusk and nighttime. So we’d often switch to pants in the evening, along with a good layer of insect repellant. Trail shorts are perfect for travel in Africa as they provide sun protection, and many contain insect repellants. Their stretchable fabric makes them ideal for sitting in a vehicle or bus for long hours throughout the day.

Lightweight Long Sleeve Shirt

I wear a long sleeve almost every night in Africa. Malaria is a real threat in most of Sub-Saharan Africa, and it’s best treated by prevention rather than medication. Every evening in malaria-prone regions, we wear long-sleeve shirts and pants to cover our skin as mosquitos bite in the evenings.

Long sleeves are also great for sun protection, and we wore them on desert walks in Namibia and a canoe safari on the Zambezi River. Temperatures aren’t always hot, as morning and the mountains can often be very cool a long-sleeved shirt provides more versatility. They’re also stylish and a classic look to sport in Africa.

Lightweight Shirts

On an average day, we spend our time in a classic tee-shirt. It’s pretty hot in Africa, and it’s tough to beat the comfort of a short-sleeve shirt. Our absolute favorite technical shirts are the Outdoor Research Echo shirt. That being said, almost every shirt you pack for Africa should be loose and light-colored. It gets bloody HOT in Africa, and the last thing you want to wear is a skin-tight blacktop.

One Nice Outfit

Just because you’re traveling to Africa does not mean it’s all villages and wild bush. We found plenty of reasons to dress nice, from concerts, bars, restaurants, and vibrant art scenes. We’ve found plenty of bars and restaurants, especially if you’re in many major cities, from Cape Town to Nairobi or Accra.

I would recommend throwing at least one dress into your Africa packing list. Of course, if you find a local fashion designer, it’s always great to support local businesses!

Swimsuit

Outside of big cities, it will be hard to find a swimsuit. For women, one of the best brands for swimsuits I’ve found is Londre. They make amazing swimsuits that fit as nicely as they look. Many of their pieces are stylish yet supportive. They’re perfect if you plan to go surfing, bodyboarding, kitesurfing, or go snorkeling while in Africa. Cameron loves Quicksilver’s Amphibian shorts. The material looks like heavy cotton but is super lightweight and durable. Best of all, they look great on the beach or in town.

Warm Fleece

This all depends on where you are traveling, but you might be surprised to find out that Africa can get chilly in the evenings and mornings. We saw freezing temperatures in South Africa, snowboarded in Lesotho, and had to bundle up for the perpetual spring of East Africa.

Check the climate before you head off on your trip, and if you’re traveling extensively, you’ll encounter cold evenings. Consider it a necessity on your Africa packing list or at least something warm. When we spent an entire year in Africa, we were thankful to have both a great fleece and a down jacket too.

Shell Jacket

A great item in Africa is a shell jacket designed to protect you from the wind and rain. They’re tremendous at protection from the elements like rain, wind, sleet, and even snow. Of course, there are days when no jacket will protect you from the torrential downpours of the rainy season, like in the photo above in Zambia.

I have several shell jackets that I cycle throughout the year, but the one I reach for the most is my Arc’teryx Zeta LT Jacket. The LT line from Arc’teryx is a lightweight line, and it packs down well in my backpack. I can even wear it in the winter as a waterproof shell over my down jacket. If you want more help, we post on our favorite hiking jackets.

Sports Bras

Nothing fancy here, but for the most part, you aren’t winning any fashion awards in the bush. I love Handful’s sports bras. They fit incredibly well, have removable pads, can be worn in multiple ways, and are smooth, non-chafing, and quick-drying. Seriously, they are the best sports bras I’ve ever owned! *Use code TWP20 for 20% off!

Sports Underwear

You should try to pack several pairs of sports underwear. Generally, we’ll pack five to seven pairs of underwear for a typical trip. We recommend several pairs of underwear made from wool or synthetic material. These materials are antimicrobial, so they stay fresh longer and can dry quickly overnight if you hand wash them. It’s best not to wear your typical cheap cotton undies for women. Women’s hygiene is vital, so antimicrobial undies, when active in the heat they are a lifesaver.

Buff

I love my buff. I usually wear it to keep my hair back. A barber can be pretty tough to find in Africa, but it’s also served its purpose as a scarf, face covering (dust), and wet rag. Buffs last for years and aren’t only helpful in Africa. It’s been one of my top travel accessory investments ever!

Sunglasses

Protect your eyes from the sun in Africa since you’re near the equator. There are many sunglasses options, and everyone should own at least a pair. It’s best to make sure they have UV protection for the health of your eyes. We made our first investment in quality polarized sunglasses with a pair of SMITH Optics Lowdown 2. Truthfully, not everyone needs to invest $150 in a pair of sunglasses. Our first trip to Africa was with $5 pairs from the side of the road.

What To Pack For Africa

Camera with Telephoto Lens

If you can swing the money and are going on an African safari, I highly recommend investing in a proper camera. Those lions don’t look quite as majestic on an iPad. If it’s your first time on safari or traveling around Africa we have a great post on the best safari cameras.

Smartphone

We live in a digital age, and I hate to say this, but our phones are our lifelines in Africa. They are our maps, news sources, and online social lives; yes, they are even used as telephones to get around. We always get a local SIM card when we arrive in a new country. Data is cheap in most of Africa, so there is no excuse not to get a SIM card. Granted, sometimes it can be more hassle than it is worth.

Travel Adaptor

One of the last things when considering what to pack when visiting Africa is an adaptor. Most of Southern Africa uses the plug M. We arrived in Johannesburg without this adaptor and were stuck venturing around the city at night looking for one (not ideal). The further north you go the more you will see the British “type G” plugs. I would recommend getting a good one on Amazon before arriving.

Sunscreen

Skin cancer is for real! Don’t forget your SPF when traveling around Africa as you’re close to the Equator. We recommend ordering some online before leaving the house as you will need it underneath the African sun and it can be very hard to find in grocery stores in Africa (and when you do find it the pricing will be insane).

We highly recommend getting an eco-friendly sun cream that does not contain harmful chemicals. They’re mineral-based and usually only cost a few dollars more to help protect our oceans. If you’re not going to swim in the ocean just go with a reliable name brand.

Grayl Water Bottle

It’s not advisable to drink tap water in most of Africa, so we carry a Grayl Water Purifier. This is a purifier, not a filter. The Grayl water bottle system purifies water vs. filters. Purification removes viruses and virtually removes all threat of waterborne illnesses.

We previously used the Lifestraw Go and had good experiences with the bottle for the most part. However, it is a filter and not a purifier, which is effective, but not perfect. Luckily, we’ve never had food poisoning in Africa (shocking!). However, we distinctly remember our entire hostel in Morocco getting sick from the water, but not us, thanks to our filters.

Hand Sanitizer

Walking around and taking part in everyday activities in Africa can get pretty dirty. It was also a reoccurring theme to find hand soap nowhere. You can’t go wrong bringing some hand sanitizer and baby wipes in your bag.

Insect Repellant

We recommend packing a bottle of insect repellant with DEET so you’ll scare away those annoying biting demons. It reduces the chances of Malaria or Yellow Fever. DEET can destroy plastics, so mind your sunglasses or camera when applying. It’s good to bring a small bottle, but it’s easy to find great insect repellent all over Africa as it’s commonly used to prevent malaria.

Electrolyte Tablets

Dehydration in Africa is a real concern and should be taken seriously. These tablets should get your body back to normal should you fall sick. You may not need a whole bottle, so take a few in a plastic bag or pill holder to save luggage space in case you need them.

Pillow and Sheets

Certainly not a necessity when packing for Africa, but it comes in handy when you get to a room and find the conditions are…less desirable. A sleeping bag liner or even a sleeping bag also does a great job!

Dental Floss

If you cherish your teeth, pack extra floss before you get to Africa. Toothpaste and toothbrushes can be found just about anywhere. However, we had a hard time finding dental floss.

Contact Solution

I have terrible eyesight, but I also hate wearing glasses. Contact solution isn’t easy to find in Africa, and when you do find them they will be expensive. If you wear contacts, add some to your Africa packing list.

Guide Book

Sometimes, it’s nice just to have an actual book in your hands when traveling. We recommend picking up a Lonely Planet to get you through the wireless nights.

Medical Packing List for Africa

Medication For Malaria

Many people think that malaria is similar to the flu and isn’t that serious – this is not the case. Malaria is very serious and, if not treated, can even lead to death. Research and determine if you are traveling to a malaria zone on your African trip.

Most of South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, and Northern Africa are unaffected by malaria. Malaria is a vector-borne illness spread by mosquitos, requiring water to live and reproduce. It’s very rare to find Malaria in arid climates.

I advise waiting until you land in Africa to get your malaria medicine; it is cheaper, and I find the information to be better than Western doctors who can barely diagnose the symptoms. If you don’t have the time to get medicine after you land in Africa make sure you have enough for your entire trip before your departure.

Two different types of medication are used for malaria prevention: Malarone and Doxycycline. It’s best for those on a short trip to take some form of malaria prevention, as both come with their side effects.

In all our time in Africa, we have only taken prevention for about two weeks while in Malawi because of its high risk. For numerous months on end, taking a drug posed too much risk to our bodies. Some volunteer programs require their members to take some form of medication regularly. It’s also worth picking up the treatment over the counter when you land in Africa (Mozambique and Malawi sell it OTC).

The key to malaria prevention is to avoid mosquito bites first! Wear long sleeves in the evening/night, spray insect repellant, and use a mosquito net at night.

Additional Medicine

If you forget medicine at home, don’t panic! Pharmacies are located in many of the towns and cities around the continent. We were able to find everything we needed when we landed in Johannesburg. However, having a decent first aid kit is a good idea if you’ll be remote, like some Peace Corps volunteers.

• Diarrhea Medicine (Pepto Bismal)
• Acetaminophen (Tylenol)
• Antihistamine
• Antiseptic cream
• Butterfly Suture (This came in handy one night in the bush…)
• Calamine Lotion
• Burn Cream
• Mosquito repellant
• Antibiotic (You can get this OTC outside of the US)

You Should Get This!

We never travel without travel insurance from Heymondo. Natasha is a bit of a worrywart and would rather stay safe than sorry. Heymondo offers incredible flexibility and great plans!

You never know if the worst could happen while you’re abroad, and often, your insurance plan at home will not cover medical emergencies abroad. Having the peace of mind that we have a good backup plan helps us sleep at night.

How To Wash Your Clothes in Africa?

You’ll always be able to find local women who will wash your clothes for you. For a small fee, they will hand wash, hang dry, and many times iron your clothing for an affordable price. It’s a great way to support local families as women can do the work at home.

I highly recommend seeking them out. We do so by asking our accommodation staff for recommendations, many times it was one of their close relatives who did it for us. For our camping times when no one was around, we often used our Scrubba.

Africa Packing List Summary

All of these items I have and have tried and tested throughout Africa. Whatever you bring, remember that you will be able to find most things you need in Africa (especially in the capital cities), but outside of them, you will have a very tough time.

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