Spain Packing List (25 Things You Might Forget to Bring) (2024)

👉 Jump to: Spain Packing List | Clothing to Pack | Packing Tips | FAQ | Get Printable Checklist

Having an awesome Spain packing list is a key ingredient for a flawless experience in the country. You don’t want to forget important items, and figuring out what to wear in Spain takes some extra consideration.

I’m here to help! I traveled all around southern and northern Spain for upwards of two months and have the inside scoop on what to bring.

There are lots of different places to visit in Spain from San Sebastian to the Canary Islands. In this article, I break down everything you need to help you have fun no matter where or when you visit.

Disclosure: Travel Lemming is an independent reader-supported blog. You can support us by purchasing via the affiliate links on this page, which may earn us commissions. See our Advertising Policy for further explanation. Thank you!

Spain Packing Checklist

🖨️Get a printable version of this checklist

Large Travel Backpack

Our Pick

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Osprey Porter Travel Pack

The Osprey Porter is top of the line for its functionality and sleek look. Plus, it comes with a lifetime guarantee so you are always protected on your travels.

Full Review

To explore Spain with ease, you’ll need a large travel backpack that you trust with your life. After all, it will be your core piece of travel equipment.

The Osprey Sojourn Porter Travel Pack is the gold standard of travel backpacks for its utilitarian design that makes it easy to carry a month’s worth of clothes and gear on your back.

👉 Pro Tip: Wanna learn more about this awesome backpack? Nate has taken it to over 61 countries! Check out his honest Osprey Sojourn Porter 46 review for all the details.

Travel Insurance

Sky’s Choice

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Travel Insurance from World Nomads

World Nomads offers simple and flexible travel insurance. I’ve personally always used World Nomads. After 10+ countries, I keep using them!

Though we can’t provide insurance advice, you may want to research if travel insurance for Spain is right for you.I use World Nomads for my travel insurance while in Spain, and have had a good experience.

Reusable Water Bottle with Filter

Our Pick

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LifeStraw Go Water Filter Bottle

Getting this traveler’s fav filtered water bottle is an investment in your future adventures. It saves so much money and time on buying disposable water bottles.

A reusable water bottle with a filter can actually save you a decent amount of money when you’re wandering around Spain. Buying water bottle after water bottle isn’t just uneconomical when you’re traveling, and it’s not environmentally friendly.

When it comes to reusable water bottles, the LifeStraw Go Water Filter Bottle is top-of-the-line. It has one of the most advanced filtration systems in the game and lasts for a really long time.

First Aid Kit

Our Pick

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First Aid Emergency Kit

This all-inclusive kit makes your trip 100x safer. From headaches to open wounds, it has you covered when visiting Spain.

No ultimate packing list is complete without a first aid kit. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve gotten a little cut or had a headache I couldn’t get rid of while traveling. In those moments, you’ll be thanking your lucky stars for being prepared with first aid.

I would go for the classic First Aid Emergency Kit for your trip to Spain because it comes with everything from burn cream to Aspirin.

Hanging Toiletry Bag

Our Pick

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BAGSMART Hanging Toiletry Bag

I love this hanging toiletry bag because the inside is water resistant and it stores tons of items in a small, convenient place.

Having a toiletry bag that hangs up is a little thing that can make a big improvement to your Spain trip. I mean, it’s pretty nasty to leave all your shower stuff to soak up dirty water on the ground.

This BAGSMART Hanging Toiletry Bag is perfect. It’s cute, keeps all your bathroom things organized, and it’s even water resistant so it doesn’t get drenched in the shower.

International Power Adapter

Our Pick

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EPICKA Universal Power Adapter

There’s nothing more frustrating than dead electronics on a vacation. Make sure you bring a high-quality power adapter that works in Europe, like this EPIKA Universal Power Adapter.

One of the biggest “must have” items to bring to Spain is an international power adapter.

Spain uses Type F sockets and plugs. Like much of Europe, Spain’s round pin style outlets are also compatible with Type C and E plugs. However, you will need an adapter to convert from US/Canada (Type A & B) or from UK (Type G) devices.

I use this EPICKA Universal Power Adapter when I’m traveling. It has four USB outlets, a regular plug, and it charges up to six devices at once. Plus, this adapter can be used for any type of plug in the world!

Day Pack

Our Pick

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Osprey Daylite

If it’s a bag, I’m coming to Osprey for it. You just can’t beat their quality. Especially when it comes to their Daylite Packs.

One of the most important things on your packing list is going to be a day pack. Every day trip, tour, or even just exploration of a new city will depend on it.

Once again, Osprey is my absolute favorite type of backpack. I’ve taken my Osprey Daylite Pack to over 10 countries and it’s still my go-to for every adventure.

Virtual Private Network (VPN)

Our Pick

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Express VPN

Best pricing of the year
Express VPN is my favorite virtual private network to have with me on my travels. It’s super affordable and I can use it on my phone, laptop, and tablet with just one subscription.

Virtual crime is no joke, especially when you’re traveling around a foreign country and using a bunch of random WiFi networks. Even in a safe country like Spain, it’s very possible to get your information or identity stolen.

Thankfully, investing in an affordable virtual private network, like Express VPN, is a super easy way to avoid that risk. You can also use it to watch shows on Netflix and Hulu that are regionally restricted, which is a fun added benefit.

Plus, a VPN is an essential item for digital nomads if you’re planning to do remote work while in Spain.

Portable Power Bank

Our Pick

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Anker Portable Charger

Having this powerful Anker Portable Charger is a blessing on longer journeys when you need to keep your phone charged.

You never know when you’ll need an extra boost of power during your trip to Spain. Rather than be left without a phone in a foreign country, you can just keep a charged portable power bank on hand.

I used the Anker Portable Charger for three months in Europe, which was great. It held its charge for a long time and charged up my phone super fast.

Hidden Money Belt

Our Pick

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Alpha Keeper Money Belt

I like to keep this covert belt hidden under my clothes as a backup supply of emergency cash just in case anything happens.

I wouldn’t recommend using a money belt as your primary place to store money and cards when you’re traveling in Spain. But, it can be a good place to put hidden cash back up in an emergency.

The Alpha Keeper Money Belt is ideal for concealing your stash. It’s very flat but it still has enough room to hold plenty of stuff.

Luggage Locks

Our Pick

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SURE LOCK TSA Compatible Travel Luggage Locks

If you buy a sturdy pair of luggage locks, then you won’t have to get them again for years. That’s why I went for these TSA-compatible travel locks.

Small locks are another thing that seems small but ends up being very useful on a trip to Spain. Whether you want your checked luggage secure or need to keep your stuff safe at a hostel, these handy locks are the way to go.

To avoid any issues at the airport, you’ll want to get locks that are TSA-compatible, like the SURE LOCK. These locks are sturdy and can last through years of your bag getting tossed around.

Eco-Friendly Sunscreen

Our Pick

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Thrive Natural Body Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50

This vegan, ocean-friendly sunscreen will keep your skin protected on every outdoor activity in Spain. Plus it doesn’t leave behind any pasty residue.

Summer is one of the best seasons to visit Spain thanks to the delightful warm weather. But don’t forget to lather up with eco-friendly sunscreen before you face that powerful Spanish sun.

The top-quality Thrive Natural Body Mineral Sunscreen is a great go-to – just make sure you do a patch test for any allergic reaction on your skin first before lathering it everywhere.

Portable Door Lock

Our Pick

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Addalock Portable Door Lock

Even though Spain remains one of the safest countries in Europe, this portable door lock will give you that extra layer of protection. You never know.

Spain is a very safe country, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t take precautions. The reality is that when you’re staying in a hotel or Airbnb, you never know who might have a key to that door.

So, I wouldn’t feel right giving you guys an ultimate packing list without telling you about this Addalock Portable Door Lock. It’s a low-cost purchase that will make all your future travels a lot safer.

eReader

Our Pick

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Kindle Paperwhite

I love reading when I’m traveling, but carrying around bulky books just isn’t compatible. That’s why I’ve brought my Kindle eReader on every trip I’ve ever taken.

There is no better time to get reading done than on a 7+ hour flight to Spain. However, you really don’t want to be lugging around books your whole trip. That’s why the Kindle Paperwhite is such a lifesaver for fellow bookworm travelers.

Laundry Bag

Our Pick

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Miamica Travel Laundry Bag

This laundry bag is one of the best for travel. It’s packable, lightweight, and even machine washable so you can throw it in with your clothes to keep them smelling fresh.

This is one of the things that I forgot and completely regretted on my first big trip. It’s always those little things that get you!

The Miamica Travel Laundry Bag is a simple way to handle laundry on a trip to Spain. It fits perfectly in your bag like a packing cube and you can just throw it in the wash with your clothes.

Camera

Our Pick

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Canon EOS Rebel T7

Ever since I got my Canon EOS Rebel, I never travel without it. After looking back on some of the photos I took across Spain, I can say firsthand that you’ll definitely want a trusty camera.

When I went on my first trip abroad, I didn’t bring a camera with me and it was a terrible decision. You don’t want to make that mistake when you’re discovering the beautiful Spanish cities and countryside.

For the standard traveler, I’d recommend investing in a Canon EOS Rebel T7. After shooting with it on three continents, I can safely say it’s an incredible camera with lots of ways to upgrade it.

Waterproof Document Bag

Our Pick

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COLCASE Waterproof/Fireproof Document Bag

You don’t want to find out how stressful it is for your travel documents to be destroyed on a trip. Save yourself a major headache and keep all your stuff in this water and fireproof document bag.

This is another one of those packing list items that you don’t think about until it’s too late. Don’t ruin your beach vacation with ruined passports or travel documents. Just tuck them away in this COLCASE Waterproof/Fireproof Document Bag instead.

Bluetooth Headphones

Our Pick

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TOZO Bluetooth Wireless Waterproof Headphones

These Tozo headphones last for days straight, so they’re a miracle for flights. Plus, these headphones are even waterproof. Perfect for splashing around on a beach holiday.

Anyone with a modern iPhone knows the struggle of getting caught with a dying phone when you’re listening to music with plug-in headaches. These days, I wouldn’t go anywhere without my TOZO headphones. They’re even waterproof, so you don’t have to worry about them getting wet at the beach or in the rain.

Other Spain Essentials to Pack

For more, check out our full list of travel essentials to pack for any trip.

Clothing to Pack for Spain

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The question of what to wear in Spain is a major consideration for travelers. You want to bring clothes that are easy to carry and comfortable. But you should also dress to impress as you’re embracing the Spanish culture. Let’s break it down and make it all a little less daunting.

So what clothing should you pack for Spain? Here is a quick clothing checklist for Spain:

  • 2-3 pairs of shorts
  • 1 pair of jeans or pants
  • 1 pair of leggings or athletic wear
  • 4-5 casual shirts
  • 1-2 dressier shirts
  • 1 skirt
  • A few dresses
  • 2 bathing suits
  • A light jacket (or rain jacket depending on the season)
  • 1 pair of flip-flops for the beach/hostel showers
  • 1 pair of sneakers or hiking boots
  • 1 pair of dress shoes (heels/sandals)
  • 1 pair of sunglasses
  • 7 pairs of underwear
  • 5 pairs of socks

I know that’s a lot to take in when you’re scrambling to grab clothes and pack a bag. Need some more information about what to wear in Spain? No worries, here you go.

Flip Flops

Our Pick

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Women’s NewDenBer Water-Resistant Flip Flops

These flops from NewDenBer are a requirement for days by the beach. However, I always use them when I’m staying at a hotel or hostel too.

Our Pick

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Men’s Reef Phantoms Water Resistant Flip-Flops

The men’s Reef Phantoms are sturdy without being cumbersome in a suitcase or travel backpack.

Flip flops are a controversial item when it comes to what you should wear in Spain. You won’t see many people walking around the streets with them and you shouldn’t wear them in general.

However, they are a must-have if you’re spending a lot of time at the beach. I also wear them in the shower of Airbnbs, hotels, or hostels for sanitary reasons.

These NewDenBer Water Resistant Flip Flops for women and Reef Phantoms Flip-Flops for men will get the job done.

Light Jacket / Rain Jacket

Our Pick

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Women’s Hount Packable Waterproof Rain Jacket

This Hount waterproof jacket is the ultimate solution for staying warm abroad without taking up all the room in your bag.

Our Pick

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Men’s Little Donkey Andy Waterproof Rain Jacket

Little Donkey Andy’s rain jackets are durable and big enough to fit over layers. There are also over 20 different colors and styles to choose from.

Most people don’t picture their Spanish vacation with rainy days, but it’s very possible if you’re visiting during the winter and fall seasons. Even in the summer and spring, the nights can get cool in certain regions.

Be prepared by taking along a lightweight, waterproof jacket. Like this Women’s Hount Packable Waterproof Rain Jacket or this Men’s Little Donkey Andy Waterproof Rain Jacket.

Sunglasses

Our Pick

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Women’s BUTABY Sunglasses

When it comes to things like sunglasses that are easily lost or broken on a trip abroad, I always go for something like these BUTABY glasses. They’re simple, cute, and super affordable for any budget.

Our Pick

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Men’s Carfia Metal Sunglasses

These men’s sunglasses are designed to be ultra-comfortable, long-lasting, and reduce glare. Which you’ll definitely need when facing the intense Spanish sunshine.

Sunglasses are definitely something you will need to wear in Spain. Especially during the summer months when the sun gets super powerful without a cloud in the sky. However, glasses are easy to lose. Go for an affordable pair like these BUTABY Sunglasses for women or the Carfia Metal Sunglasses for men.

Sneakers

Our Pick

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Women’s New Balance FuelCore Sneakers

The sneakers you bring on a trip to Spain are one of the most important items in your bag. That should tell you how much faith I have in these simple, packable women’s sneakers.

Our Pick

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Men’s Adidas Lite Racer Adapt Running Shoe

These lightweight Adidas running shoes seem like they were practically made for traveling. They’re breathable for hot weather and the neutral colors are easy to match with lots of things.

When you set off on an outdoor adventure in Spain, you’ll need a pair of comfortable and packable sneakers. It’s a taller order than you might think.

These Women’s New Balance FuelCore Sneakers and Men’s Adidas Lite Racer Adapt Running Shoes are perfect for traveling in Spain. They fold into an easy-to-pack shape and are ultra-permeable for those hot days in the sun.

Bathing Suits

Our Pick

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Women’s CUPSHE One Piece Swimsuit

The CUPSHE one-piece combines sexiness and functionality for those crowded days in Spain’s beach towns.

Our Pick

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Men’s Kanu Surf Swim Trunks

These versatile men’s swim trunks have a flattering fit for most builds and come in a wide range of sizes.

Spain has some of the most beautiful beaches on the continent. You’ll want an attractive, but functional, bathing suit to enjoy them all. Such as the Men’s Kanu Surf Swim Trunks or Women’s CUPSHE One Piece Swimsuit.

Cross-Body Bag

Our Pick

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Peak Gear Crossbody Purse

The Peak bag is a manageable, yet stylish, way to carry around all the essentials when you’re out exploring Spain. It’s big enough to hold anything, but not oversized and awkward.

When you’re wandering around Spain, you need a simple bag that goes with everything you could possibly wear. That’s why this Peak Gear Crossbody Purse is an excellent choice for traveling. It’s roomy, tasteful, and even has an RFID Pocket to protect against electronic theft.

👉 Get a Printable Version of this Checklist Here

Spain Packing Tips

Use Packing Cubes

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One of the most useful travel tips I ever received was to always use packing cubes. Now, I refuse to travel anywhere without them. It saves packing space and makes it simple to organize a closet’s worth of stuff in a cohesive way.

Pack Light To Leave Room for Souvenirs

In Spain, you’ll be surrounded by tempting souvenirs and clothing pieces to purchase. So avoid overpacking and make sure you leave enough room in your bag to accommodate them.

Make A List And Check It Twice

Forgetting something when you pack for Spain is inevitable if you don’t write down your packing list. I mean, look at how much is in this article! Once you have the list written down, double-check that you have every item there before zipping up your bag for good. That extra look might save you a huge headache.

Ziplock Bags Can Be Incredibly Useful

When I’m traveling to a new country like Spain, I bring a few ziplock bags along with me. They’re multi-useful. But I tend to use them to save little ticket stubs or other seemingly inconsequential mementos that would be a pain to carry otherwise.

Try Scented Sachets To Keep Your Bag Smelling Fresh

Traveling isn’t always as luxurious as it’s made out to be. Especially if you’re traveling long-term in Europe’s best backpacking locations.

To avoid your bag developing an unpleasant aroma, use little scented sachets to keep your backpack refreshed. They’re also great for throwing in your laundry bag.

Consider The Season And Location You’re Visiting

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Your packing list for Spain will change depending on when and where you are visiting. For a winter packing list, Spain will be rainier and have less predictable weather. This means you’ll need layers and even a rain jacket in the winter months. The climate in San Sebastian is different from that of southern Spain.

Consider the Spanish weather you’re in for before packing a bag.

Bring A Couple of Dressy Outfits

While most times I’d recommend sticking with strictly casual clothes for traveling, that’s not the case for Spain. Deciding what to wear in Spain is a whole consideration in itself.

Spanish women dress to the nines and it’s fun to be a part of it with fancier attire. So consider what outfits you will wear to enjoy the nightlife when you pack for Spain.

👉 Read Next: 10 Days in Spain (The Perfect Itinerary)

FAQs About Packing for Spain

What should I pack for a trip to Spain?

You should pack a versatile collection of casual, easy-to-carry clothes and some fancier outfits for a trip to Spain. Going out and getting dressed up is a part of the culture in Spain, so having a nice evening outfit is a must. You should also bring along medical supplies, international power adapters, and toiletry essentials.

Your packing list for a trip to Spain will change slightly depending on where and when you’re going.

How do people in Spain dress in June?

In June, people in Spain wear shorts, tank tops, summer dresses, and lightweight clothes. These types of garments won’t get bogged down by the increasingly hot weather. However, people in Spain tend to get dressed up a bit more than Americans do. Most locals won’t be wearing flip-flops or gym clothes around town even in the heat of the summer.

How should I pack for a 7-day trip to Spain?

You should bring seven different outfits on a week-long trip to Spain. Including your flight clothes, bring four outfits for everyday wear and two going-out ensembles. However, the clothes you choose depend on the season and region you’re visiting.

***

🖨️Get a printable version of this checklist

That’s it for my Spain packing list! If it’s your first time visiting Europe, don’t forget to read our guide to the best time to travel to Europe. There are a lot of things to learn about the regional seasons before you book a trip.

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Spain Packing List (25 Things You Might Forget to Bring) (2024)
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