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

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. 

And 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 my ultimate Spain packing list to help you have fun no matter where or when you visit.

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Spain Packing Checklist

Large Travel Backpack 

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 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 Porter 46 review for all the details. 

Travel Insurance

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

Reusable Water Bottle with Filter

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

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 

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

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 

One of the most important things on your Spain packing list is your 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)

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 a essential item for digital nomads if you’re planning to do remote work while in Spain.

Portable Power Bank

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

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

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

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

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

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

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 

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

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.  

Face Masks

As of November 2022, face masks aren’t required in most places in Spain. However, you will need one on public transportation. So, bring along a pack of these Levenis Breathable Disposable KN95 Masks just in case. 

Bluetooth Headphones

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

• Passport with cover 
• Vaccination record
• Toothbrush/Hairbrush
• Makeup
• Travel-size toiletries
• Ear plugs
• Wrinkle release spray
• Extra chargers
• Packable, quick-dry towel 
• Travel umbrella 
• Airplane neck pillow
• Melatonin

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

Clothing to Pack for Spain

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

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

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. So, 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

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

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

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 

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. 

Spain Packing Tips

Use Packing Cubes 

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 Spain packing list. I mean, look at how much stuff 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 

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. Meaning 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)

Spain Packing List FAQs 

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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.