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Spain packing list: essentials for your Spanish adventure

A Spain packing list isn’t just about cramming your suitcase with as many outfits as possible. We know, it’s tempting to have that perfect linen outfit for the sunny streets of Seville, the best hiking gear for Basque Country, and something chic for the capital of Madrid. But packing smart means understanding the climate, terrain, season, culture and types of activities you’ll experience. 

Having the right gear – good walking shoes, an umbrella in the winter, or a sun hat in summer – can make all the difference. Let’s dive into what you need to pack for your Spanish adventure – minus the overstuffed luggage drama. ¡Vamos!

What to pack for your Spain vacation: The essentials

Colorful suitcases are lined up against a wall, perfect for frequent flyers looking for travel inspiration.

Spanish locals are very stylish, so when packing for Spain try to fill your suitcase with clothing that is comfortable yet chic, versatile yet practical. But you don’t need to pack your entire wardrobe – just don’t skip these essentials.

  • Comfortable shoes and walking shoes: Spain is best explored on foot, so arrive ready to strut down Madrid’s grand boulevards, get lost in Seville’s old town, or hike up to the Alhambra in Granada. Look for walking shoes that are both stylish and sturdy enough to handle cobblestones.
  • Pack light but smart: The golden rule of travel? Pack light. Spain is chic but laid-back, so plan to wash and recycle outfits. Bring versatile clothing like tank tops that can double as layers. A quick dry towel can be good for beach days, picnics, or unexpected spills.
  • Sun protection is essential: Spain is perfectly sun-kissed year-round, especially in the south. No matter the season, pack a hat, sunglasses, and plenty of sunscreen.
  • Travel insurance: Whether it’s a delayed flight, lost luggage, or an unexpected mishap – travel insurance is your safety net (that you’ll hopefully never need).

READ NEXT: This Is The Best Time To Visit Spain

What to pack for 5 days in Spain

Let’s look at a sample packing list for Spain. Here’s what we suggest for a 5-day trip to Spain, which if you’re going for longer just add a few more shirts and underwear – then plan to do washing along the way.

Clothing

  • 3-5 tops: Consider short-sleeve shirts and long shirts you can layer.
  • 2 bottoms: Jeans or lightweight pants, and one pair of shorts or a skirt for warmer days.
  • 1-2 dresses (optional): Something for sunny days, and something chic to dance the night away!
  • 1 jacket or cardigan: Even in summer, carry a lightweight layer for cooler evenings or air-conditioned spaces.
  • 1 rain jacket: Especially useful in the north of Spain, in winter or during unpredictable weather.
  • Underwear and socks: Enough for 5 days, or fewer if you plan to do laundry.
  • Light scarf: If you’re visiting religious sights in the summer, carry a scarf to cover bare shoulders.

Shoes

  • Walking shoes: Essential for exploring cobblestone streets.
  • Casual sandals or flats: Great for warmer weather or casual outings. Alternative, pack a chic sandal or shoe for evenings out.

Accessories

  • Sun protection: Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Nonnegotiable!
  • Refillable water bottle: Stay hydrated as you explore.
  • Crossbody bag or daypack: For your essentials like a wallet, map, or snacks.

Other essentials

  • Travel-size toiletries: Toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, etc.
  • Quick dry towel: Handy for beaches etc.
  • Power adapter: Spain uses Type C or F plugs, so make sure your devices are compatible.

READ NEXT: These are the 15 best places to visit in Spain 

Is It okay to wear jeans in Spain?

A suitcase with a pair of shoes, a pair of jeans, a pair of sneakers, a pair of flip flops.

Yes! Jeans are a staple in Spain, just like in most parts of the world. You’ll see locals strutting around in jeans across the country, though in the big cities Spaniards are quite stylish. You can dress up your jeans with nice top or blouse to blend in.

READ NEXT: Camino de Santiago: the ancient pilgrimage route of Spain 

Seasonal Spain packing tips

Avoid jet lag on vacation with a gentle walk

Snow in Spain? Yes. Rainy days? Of course. Blasting summer heat? Si! Spain is a surprisingly large country with many climates and shifting seasons mean you can experience it all. Whether you’re soaking up the Andalusian sun or dodging raindrops in the Basque Country, here’s how to tailor your packing to Spain’s times of year.

Packing for the summer months in Spain

Summer in Spain is all about sun, fun, and maybe a little sweat. Temperatures in Southern Spain can hit scorching highs, so keep your wardrobe light and breezy.

Essentials: Tank tops, shorts, flowy dresses, and breathable fabrics like cotton or linen.
Footwear: Sandals or lightweight walking shoes for exploring under the blazing sun.
Don’t forget: A refillable water bottle to stay hydrated and a fan (yes, an actual hand fan—it’s both functional and fabulously Spanish – a souvenir you can buy and use!).

What to pack for cooler times of year in Spain

If your trip to Spain falls in autumn, winter, or early spring, pack for layers. Coastal areas like Barcelona stay relatively mild, but inland cities like Madrid can get quite chilly. And let’s not forget the wet winters of the north.

Essentials: Long-sleeve shirts, cozy sweaters, and a rain jacket for those unpredictable drizzles. T-shirts and shorts in case the sun comes out!
Footwear: Waterproof shoes or sturdy sneakers to handle damp streets.
Pro tip: Bring a scarf or shawl to layer up—it’s easy to pack and adds warmth without bulk.

People walking through a square in a Spanish city

READ NEXT: Brilliant places in Spain for a sunny winter getaway 

Things to pack for specific activities

Spain is somewhere you go for a fly-and-flop vacation by the sea, explore the tapas bar scene, or chase adventure. 

Beach days

If you’re planning to spend time on the beaches of Southern Spain or the Costa Brava, you’ll need to add a swimsuit, flip-flops, and a quick dry towel. Don’t forget that hat, sunglasses, and plenty of sunscreen (trust us, that Spanish sun is no joke). Add a tote bag to your suitcase to carry your beach gear and snacks!

Hiking and outdoor adventures

For nature lovers, Spain offers hiking trails galore, from the Pyrenees to coastal trails. If you plan to walk, pack athletic walking shoes or lightweight hiking boots, then consider moisture-wicking clothing, and a compact windbreaker. Don’t forget a reusable water bottle!

READ NEXT: How to spend 48 hours in Barcelona, Spain 

Diners at outdoor tables on a whitewashed street in Spain

Other Spain packing list essentials and tips

It’s the little things that can save the day, so double check you’ve packed a universal power adapter, any essential medications, a mini first-aid kit with paracetamol and some band-aids.

Our final tip is to consider when packing is the local culture. Spaniards dress smart, so you won’t see them out and about running errands in gym gear. Our other cultural tip is around the siesta. Many shops and restaurants close in the afternoon, so it might be worth having some snacks hidden in your suitcase!

READ NEXT: Discover the best of Spain and Portugal

That’s everything we think you’ll need on your Spain packing list. Anything else we should add? Leave us a comment…

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