Packing List For Spain 2025

Are you spending time in Spain and want to know what to pack? Here is a list of all the things I’ve found handy for my own journeys to Spain, as well as everything you can leave at home.

Madrid © Nicolas Vigier

Spain has a history and culture to rival anywhere in the world yet, from food to football, the country puts its own unique stamp on everything it does. Economic troubles have not dented the Spanish lust for life – its incredible nightlife and festivals or the generosity of its people. And visitors are treated to almost year-round sunny beaches, centuries of art and architecture, and the unique personality of each city and region. Spain is a country with character.

Preparing For Your Trip To Spain

Some of the most important things you’ll need for Spain aren’t in your luggage at all. Be sure to sort these fundamentals well before you plan to leave.

• Flight Ticket – Book with an airline well in advance, as costs increase nearer to departure date. The best time to book a flight is three months ahead, using a comparison site like Skyscanner. Keep a print out of all tickets within easy reach, as you may be asked to show a return flight on arrival.
• Bus and Train Tickets – You can also save cash by planning other transport in advance, especially if you plan to see a lot of Spain. The Spanish train system is now one of the best in Europe and speeding from city to city is a joy.
  • The Trainline is a great place to book both trains and coaches. The site is easy to use and will highlight the cheapest tickets without any sneaky fees or markup. Install the app on your phone, to book and manage tickets on the go.
  • An Interrail pass is ideal for EU nationals making a lot of train journeys across Spain. Non-EU visitors should go for the Eurail Spain Pass instead. Prices for both passes vary depending on the age of the traveller and the number of days required.
  • There are full details about Spanish coach operators and booking facilities via Omio. You can also go directly to the largest provider coach provider ALSA or the German-based Flixbus.
• Accommodation – The availability and cost of accommodation is also more favourable around three months in advance. Use a comparison site like Booking.com to shop for the best deals.
• Passport – Your passport should have at least six months before expiry and plenty of blank pages – especially if you’re coming from outside the EU. Damage can cause serious problems for you at the airport, so get a strong passport cover to protect it. It’s also a convenient place to gather tickets and other travel documents.
• Do I Need A Visa For Spain? – As part of the Schengen Area, EU citizens are entitled to free movement into Spain. Americans, Australians, Canadians, and others do NOT need a visa for less than 90 days. Full visa details and other nationalities are Spain’s official tourism website.
• Activities – It’s always worth pre-planning some Spanish holiday adventures. A quick look at the Barcelona activities offered by GetYourGuide should spark some inspiration. There are real reviews to find out exactly what to expect and many include the option to cancel, if your plans change.

Can I Use My Mobile Phone In Spain?

EU residents should be able to use their mobile phone contract in Spain at no extra cost, with the same minutes and data use abroad as at home. Check with your network before you leave to make sure you are set up and to find out if your contract comes with any limitations.

For non-EU visitors, pre-purchasing an eSIM is generally the simplest way to use your phone in a country not covered by your existing plan. Most contemporary smartphones have the facility built-in and the set-up is reasonably straightforward.

You can pre-purchase a European eSIM via Klook and get everything set up for when you arrive in Spain. The site has full instructions and a detailed list of supported devices. eSIMs are generally data only, but you can use WhatsApp or similar to make calls. Wi-Fi calling is sometimes available.

If you still need a physical SIM, you can purchase cards at airport kiosks, branded provider stores – usually found in shopping malls, convenience stores, and some supermarkets. The major Spanish providers are:

• Movistar: Known for its extensive coverage, particularly in rural areas,
• Vodafone: A popular international provider with various prepaid plans,
• Orange: Another major player with competitive data packages,
• Yoigo: Offers good value data plans.

Discuss your needs with a member of staff, who will help you get set up. Make sure your phone is unlocked before you travel and take your passport as proof of ID. You can buy a cheap phone if your device is still in contract.

Though some cities have put in networks of public Wi-Fi in Spain, you may find yourself falling back on a 4G data plan in many situations. The wiman site and app lists over 500,000 free Wi-Fi hotspots in Spain and our recommendation is to head to McDonald’s or an Apple store for the least complicated experience.

Travel Insurance For Spain

Considering travel insurance for your trip? World Nomads offers coverage for more than 150 adventure activities as well as emergency medical, lost luggage, trip cancellation and more.

What Do You Need To Pack For Spain?

The shops in Spain are very good, and the cost of living is cheaper than many other European countries, so it probably pays to buy any holiday shopping once you’ve arrived. You’ll have no trouble getting what you need. Regardless, the best advice is to usually pack less.

So far, Spain has resisted the move to longer opening hours seen in other European cities, maintaining instead local norms and customs. Although larger supermarkets stay open all day until 10pm, it is still common for other places (even banks) to close for the lunchtime siesta, which varies depending on where you are. Nor should you assume that anywhere will be trading on Sundays, even the biggest stores. The best advice is to plan any shopping for either first thing on a weekday or late afternoon.

• You Won’t Need Non-Prescription Medication – Spanish chemists are called ‘pharmacías’ and are easily recognised by a green, neon cross familiar to anyone who has been to France. They also offer a similar range of basic medical services to their French equivalents. Check opening hours as most will be closed during lunch and on Sundays, and possibly also Saturday afternoons.
• You Won’t Need Toiletries – Most of the big supermarket chains like Carrefour and Mercadona, stock reasonably-priced toiletries, so there’s no need to bring tampons, deodorant, toothpaste, shampoo and shower gel, razors, or loo roll. For more upmarket and specialised personal care products, try a ‘perfumería’ like Douglas.

What Clothes To Pack For Spain

Whilst it is generally sunny in Spain, it does get cold, especially in high-altitude regions like Madrid. You can also expect rain in many regions. On the other hand, temperatures can get excessively hot at certain times of year, particularly in the central parts of the country. Unless you’re going in winter, you won’t need a lot of warm clothes. If you find that you do once you’ve arrived, the shops will have everything you need. So, pack to stay cool but include a light sweater or blanket and something to keep you dry if it rains.

• Lightweight, Breathable Clothing – Spain can get quite hot, especially during summer (June to August), so breathable T-shirts, dresses, and shorts is essential for comfort during sightseeing and outdoor activities. Pack durable shorts or skirts that cope with daily use and frequent washing. Lightweight options should be comfortable throughout the year, but include trousers if you’re visiting in winter.
• Shorts with zipper pockets will help you stay cool and keep valuables safe.
• You’ll get by with a few t-shirts, but take at least one light, long-sleeved top, especially from October through to April. Under Armor t-shirts are light and will help you stay dry. Protect exposed skin against the sun or if you’re spending time in the country.
• Layered Clothing – While Spain is generally warm, it can get cooler in the evenings or in regions with a more temperate climate, such as Galicia or the Basque Country, in northern Spain. A light sweater or jacket will keep you warm when the temperatures drop. Pack light but keep something warm and waterproof for chilly or wet weather.
• A couple of pairs of jeans should suffice for the coldest months of the year.
• A waterproof jacket is a good idea for many regions, regardless of the time of year. A ‘cag in a bag’ is light and doesn’t take up much space in your day bag.
• Smart-Casual Attire – Spaniards tend to dress well, especially in cities like Madrid, Barcelona, and Seville. A nice outfit for dinner or an evening out is a good idea if you plan to dine in more upscale restaurants or visit cultural venues.
• Hat Or Cap – The Spanish sun can be intense, especially in southern Spain (like Andalusia), so a hat will help protect your face and neck from sun exposure and stop you going loco.
• Sunglasses – A good pair of shades will screen out harmful rays. Check Amazon for quality sunglasses at a reasonable price.
• Scarf Or Shawl – A shawl is handy for cooler evenings or to cover your shoulders when visiting churches or other religious sites that require modest attire.
• What Underwear To Pack – Under Armor underwear could make the difference in keeping you cool, especially if you’re on the move a lot.
  • A lubricant like KY Jelly or BodyGlide will reduce the chafing brought on by heat and lots of walking.
• What Footwear To Pack – You’ll likely do a lot of walking, whether you’re exploring the cobblestone streets of old cities like Barcelona or Madrid, hiking in the mountains, or visiting coastal towns. Comfortable shoes are a must. Blisters can ruin a trip, so solid footwear is essential. Search Amazon for deals on men’s walking shoes and quality hiking footwear for women.
  • Keen CNX hiking shoes feel better than sandals in hot weather and your feet will thank you.
  • Comfortable Walking Shoes – As mentioned above, whether you’re visiting museums, strolling through historic sites, or walking around cities, comfortable shoes are essential. Consider shoes with good arch support if you’re walking a lot.
  • Flip-Flops Or Sandals – A pair of sandals or flip-flops are perfect for the beach or relaxing in your resort.
  • Avoid blisters and smelly feet by making sure trainers or sneakers have plenty of ventilation.
  • Also, get socks with plenty of protection for your toes.
• Swimwear To Pack – Most people visit Spain for the beaches, so pack quality bikinis or trunks even if you’re not headed to the coast. Any chance to get cool in a pool will be welcome.

Health And Grooming Items To Pack For Spain

Most accommodation comes with shampoo, conditioner, and body wash, and you can buy standard toiletries, such as toothpaste and deodorant locally. However, you may prefer to bring your favourite brands with you.

• Sunscreen – Cover any exposed skin with sunscreen thoroughly and frequently. Neutrogena SPF 45 Drytouch is water resistant for about an hour and is absorbed into skin instantly.
• Insect Repellent – If you’re visiting rural or coastal areas, particularly during the warmer months, mosquitoes can be an issue, so a good insect repellent is helpful.
• Moisturiser – A revitalising face moisturiser is a real pick-me-up for travellers at the end of a demanding day. Perhaps it’s my imagination but brands like CeraVe Moisturizing Lotion and Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cream seem to do the job more effectively than generic makes.
• Tissues – A packet of tissues can be useful for endless little emergencies. Carry a small bottle of hand sanitiser too.
• Refillable Water Bottle – This is important. Spain can be brutally hot and it’s vital to stay hydrated at all times. A full water bottle means you always have refreshment on hand. The Nalgene OTF is durable and easy to use, and was especially designed for travellers.
• Travel First Aid Kit – A small, well-designed first aid kit with plasters and disinfectant means you can quickly treat cuts and scratches and stop them getting infected. Be sure to include pain relief medication, for headaches and any physical discomfort you might experience while trekking.
• Quick Dry Towel – Even if towels are supplied where you’re staying, it’s still a good idea to bring your own, especially for the beach. Sunland towels are non-bulky and lightweight, so easy to pack and carry around.
• Antihistamine Tablets – In addition to counteracting pollen allergies and ticklish noses, I find that popping an antihistamine before a long flight helps with symptoms brought on by cabin air.
• Ear Plugs – These are essential for any long journey and will save your sanity when there’s an all-night party in the street outside or you’re sharing your room with a snorer. Moldex ear plugs are cheap but do the job perfectly.

Electronic Devices To Pack For Spain

• Mobile Phone Accessories To Pack – See our section above on Spanish SIM cards and data. Here are a few other things to pack:
  • If your domestic mobile is locked, buy a cheap handset especially for the trip.
  • Don’t forget your phone charger!
  • A solid case will protect your phone from the rough and tumble of travel. The Otterbox range of Defender cases will withstand whatever you try to throw at it.
  • As you can’t predict when you’ll next have access to a power source, keep a fully-charged power bank in your day pack.
  • Check your travel insurance includes full cover for smartphones – see above. Insurance often only pays a set limit for high-value items, so don’t assume.
  • Back up your photos and data to a cloud service like iCloud or Google, and copy valuable material to a storage device like an SD card. Keep this somewhere safe. It doesn’t hurt to also back everything up to a laptop if you have one with you.
• Camera – A dedicated camera has some advantages over using your phone. You won’t drain your battery for one. The Canon Powershot is compact, straightforward to use, and well priced.
  • GoPro is a great alternative for first-person and action video. They’re waterproof too, so you an take risks with them you wouldn’t with your smartphone.
  • Memory cards are notoriously unreliable, so make sure you pack plenty, check them and swap them out regularly, and backup images as soon as you can.
  • Waterproof Camera Case – If you plan on visiting waterfalls or doing water-related activities, having a waterproof camera or case will protect your gear from splashes.
• Plug Adaptors – If all you need to charge are USB devices, it might be useful to get a Småhagel 3-port USB charger from IKEA.
  • Spain mainly uses the same 2-pin plug configuration as many other European countries. Known as a ‘Type F’ or ‘Schuko’ plug, it has rounded terminals and grounding pins on the side. The related ‘Type C’ plug will also work in these sockets. It shares the same 230V / 50 Hz power as the UK but if you’re travelling from the US, you might need an adaptor with a build-in voltage converter for things like hairdryers.
  • The safest solution is to get a universal power adaptor. If you’re using expensive items like laptops, check it has surge protection.
• Noise-Cancelling Headphones – A comfortable set of noise-cancelling headphones to soundtrack your trip can really improve long flights and bus journeys.
• Kindle – There’s nothing better than a Kindle reader for killing dead time in airports or during transit. They hold a complete library yet add minimal weight to your luggage. Don’t forget your charger!

Special Items For Specific Activities

• Spanish Phrasebook – English is widely spoken in Spanish resorts, but there are circumstances where you’ll be glad you packed a phrasebook. If it hadn’t been for my Lonely Planet Spanish Phrasebook, I might still be stuck in Zaragoza. Get familiar with pronunciation before you go and learn the basic greetings.
• Journal – I have several journals from time spent in Spain, stuffed with maps and drawings and details. Any brand will do but I love Leuchtturm1917’s A5 dotted notebooks. They’re not cheap but I think they’re worth it. Don’t forget to bring some pens!
• Hiking Gear – (e.g., boots, poles): If you plan to visit Spain’s national parks or hike in areas like the Pyrenees or Camino de Santiago, sturdy hiking gear, including sturdy boots and trekking poles, will make your adventure more comfortable.
• Snorkel Gear – If you’re heading to the Mediterranean coast or the Canary Islands, bring your own snorkelling gear to ensure it fits well and is in good condition.
• Travel Umbrella – Spain can experience sudden rain showers, especially in the northern regions like Barcelona or Bilbao, so an umbrella can be a lifesaver.

Other Documents To Prepare For A Visit To Spain

• Document Scans – Keep photos of important documents, such as your passport, credit and debit cards, and insurance, and any other important documents, saved as JPEGs to an online account like Gmail, iCloud, or Dropbox. If anything gets lost, you’ll have what you need on your phone or via an internet connection. Similarly, keep a list of emergency contacts, such as banks and medical numbers.
• Student Card – If you’re under 30 or a student, get an International Student Identity Card. You’ll get discounts in many galleries and museums, as well as a huge list of other travel savings.
• Driving Licence – You can use a foreign driving licence in Spain, as long as you are over 18 with insurance, registration, and passport. But, as with other European countries, there are certain vehicle requirements, which are subject to change. Check with the RAC website for full details for driving in Spain.

Luggage For A Visit To Spain

• Backpack or Suitcase – A reliable backpack, such as an Osprey, will hold all your stuff while keeping you comfortable. The harness should give full support on your hips rather than your shoulders. Try to road test in a shop before you buy. Also check Amazon for bargain backpacks.
  • If you prefer a suitcase, go for high-quality luggage that fits all your gear with some extra space for any extras you pick up abroad. Take airline restrictions into consideration when you buy.
  • You’ll need a day bag for things like a water bottle, sunscreen, and battery pack.
  • Travel Wallet – A sturdy travel wallet keeps your cash, cards, and other valuables safely hidden. The Lewis N. Clark RFID Security Wallet will hold your passport and other essentials, but still feel comfortably under your clothing.
• Travel Cubes – Group your luggage into easily-identifiable travel cubes, so you can easily reach what you’re looking for, rather than having to dump everything out of your suitcase. You can use Ziploc or carrier bags, but nice, sturdy cubes will keep your luggage organised and save lots of time.
• Wash Bag – A waterproof bag for toiletries is a must and a well-designed bag will give you access to exactly what you need. The Magictodoor travel kit is a thoughtfully designed wash bag at a reasonable price. Whatever you use needs to protect the rest of your luggage from messy leaks.
  • Airports have a 100 mL limit on carry-on liquids, so transfer liquids into smaller containers in a transparent cosmetics bag. Pack any larger bottles securely in with your hold luggage.
• Laundry Bag – Have a dedicated laundry bag for keeping your dirty clothes separate from clean ones during your trip.
• Ziplock Bags – Ziplock bags are handy for storing wet clothes, snacks, or keeping electronics safe from water damage.
• Luggage Locks – Some secure luggage locks will keep your bags safe from unwanted meddling. Make sure locks are TSA-approved when travelling from the United States.

Other Health Considerations For A Visit To Spain

• Medical Insurance – Unexpected medical bills can make a holiday extremely expensive, so make sure that your travel insurance includes full cover – see above. EU citizens should get the free European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), which gives access to the same state-provided healthcare as any Spanish citizen. The EHIC smartphone app guides you through the whole process and helps navigate any bureaucracy.
  • Travellers from outside the European Union should make sure they understand what is required by their insurance provider before departing for Spain. Keep any contact details close to hand and contact them as soon as necessary for advice. Keep any receipts to claim against.
  • Dial 112 for the emergency services. You should be connected with somebody who speaks English.
• Vaccinations – Spain is a safe country and it is generally enough to be up to date with routine vaccinations, although you may want to consider a Tetanus jab and, for high-risk individuals, Hepatitis A and B. Get advice from a doctor or nurse about 6 weeks before you leave.
  • The biggest health risk in Spain is from the heat. Stay alert to the temperature and get out of the sun when it gets too hot. Drink plenty of water and protect skin and eyes at all times. Notice how the Spanish take it easy during the hottest parts of the day.
  • Though there’s less risk than in more moderate climates, be careful to protect against tick-borne diseases if you are planning to hike or camp in the countryside. Cover exposed limbs and use insect repellent.
  • Consult the FitForTravel website for up-to-date travel advice in Spain.
• Prescription Medicines – If you need any prescription medicines, make sure you have enough to cover your visit. Keep them sealed, if possible, in the original package with the prescription label attached, or carry written documentation.
• Non-Prescription Medicines – Spanish pharmacías are excellent, on par with their French equivalents. These offer a full range of services and can stand in for a trip to the doctor, as the staff is highly trained (and will often speak English). They are easily identified by the green neon cross outside but, like many shops in Spain, the opening hours of an individual pharmacía will vary. So ask at your accommodation or check Google Maps for what is available locally and when they are open.
• Allergy Card – Select Wisely sells cards for major allergies in a huge variety of languages, so you can carry a statement in Spanish to warn restaurants of any allergies or food preferences.

Money For Visiting Spain

The best strategy for travel in Spain is to use a combination of debit and credit cards, with hard currency as appropriate. Don’t carry too much cash at any one time. Travellers cheques are best avoided, though pre-paid cards designed for travel are increasingly worth investigation. Contactless payments are widespread.

Tell your bank before you travel, otherwise you may find your cards won’t work. Make sure you have chip-and-PIN cards with a four-digit code from either the Visa or Mastercard families, as other cards are less common in Spain. Your bank may offer a card designed specifically for travel, so it makes sense to ask. But, just because they worked overseas in the past, don’t assume they still do. All banks will have a breakdown of transaction fees abroad which is worth clarifying before you leave.

As a member of the European Union, the Spanish currency is the Euro. You should be able to get a favourable rate of exchange before you leave home. Shop around for the market rate and low commission. Buy about €100 in advance and keep it on you.

Once you’ve arrived, use ATMs instead of changing money, especially at airports and other tourist areas. It will be cheaper to withdraw money with a debit card, especially with a no-fee card. Find out if your bank has branches in Spain or is partnered with a local equivalent. This will almost certainly mean cheaper withdrawals. Or make use of the ATMs in major banks and post offices, which offer to exchange at the market rate. They are easy to understand and will usually ask which language you prefer when you put your card in. When offered, always choose to withdraw funds at the EUR rate rather than your own currency. Same goes for restaurants and shops.

All cards have a contact number on the back. Keep a record of this and other card details, in case it gets lost or stolen. If you have problems, try the card with a few different banks, then call the number to get it unfrozen. Make sure you have full access to online banking. It’s also a good idea to carry a back-up card from a different account.

The Best Time To Visit Spain

Although Spain is renowned for its consistent temperature and climate, the most comfortable times to visit are the spring months of March to May and from September to November when things start to cool down again. Ironically the time to avoid is probably summer when it gets prohibitively hot and accommodation prices start to spike. Also note that accommodation will be more expensive during Easter.

Every year, thousands of holidaymakers pick up a winter bargain between December and February. The south is still warm at this time of year, though you shouldn’t assume it will always remain dry. High-altitude cities like Madrid can be very cold during the winter.

Planning What To Do And Where To Go In Spain

• Spain Guidebook – Despite the wealth of information online, a guidebook remains an invaluable tool for advanced planning. It can really help to read through thoroughly, marking up everything that interests you. I tend to go for Lonely Planet Spain or the equivalent if I’m visiting a specific city or region. I also make notes in the margins of my guidebook as I travel.
• Spanish Maps – You can usually pick up free maps in places like hotels and tourist information centres. The coverage is often ad-driven, so pick up a few to cross reference. Download a Google Map for offline use when you have access to free Wi-Fi, so you don’t waste precious MBs on your data plan.