For many people, a vacation is the perfect time to relax and forget about all of the stresses of everyday life. But if you’re the kind of person who likes to plan ahead, you may find yourself stressing out over what to wear on your trip. Part of this anxiety stems from the fact that most people don’t know where they’re going until after they’ve already booked their flights! So if you’re wondering what to wear on vacation in Puerto Rico, don’t worry: we’ll tell you everything you need to know about packing for your trip. If you’ve got a vacation to Puerto Rico coming up, you’re probably wondering what you should wear. Puerto Rico is a tropical island so it’s important to know what to pack in your suitcase to make sure that you’re comfortable throughout your entire trip.
What to Wear on Vacation in Puerto Rico
It’s the perfect time of year to go on vacation!
But before you pack your bags, make sure you’re prepared.
You’re going on vacation, and you want to make sure you look your best. But what are the best clothes to pack?
There are many factors that go into this decision. Are you going somewhere cold, or hot? Do you want to be comfortable but still look good? Do you have a lot of money to spend on new clothes?
These are all important questions to ask yourself before packing your suitcase. If you’re going somewhere hot, a pair of shorts and a tank top is probably the best bet. If it’s cold somewhere else, consider bringing some long-sleeved shirts and jackets.
In general, remember that dressing for warmth is more important than dressing for style when traveling!
Lightweight clothes – Puerto Rico’s weather is hot and very humid year round, so try to dress as comfortable and as light as possible. Shorts… lots of shorts! – With an average of 85°F to 95°F, it is likely you will want to wear shorts every day – plus, it’s time to tan those legs!
Now that winter is approaching, a vacation in some warm destination is starting to sound like a pleasant idea. Puerto Rico, set on the warm Caribbean waters and grazed with constant tropical breezes, can be that perfect warm destination and it is just an easy and quick step away from the mainland USA.
Still, you should know that packing for a trip to Puerto Rico is done a bit different, or in other words, a bit more tropical. Here are 19 items you should not forget to pack for your next trip to the Island of Enchantment:
First things first… try to pack as light as possible. You want to be comfortable and able to move around with ease. You can pack all this in a decent sized carry on bag:
Lightweight clothes – Puerto Rico’s weather is hot and very humid year round, so try to dress as comfortable and as light as possible.
Shorts… lots of shorts! – With an average of 85°F to 95°F, it is likely you will want to wear shorts every day – plus, it’s time to tan those legs! Still, pack one pair of long pants/jeans for any casual occasion.
Sandals – You’ll see it’s quite common to see people walking the city with their sandals/flip flops. It’s just comfortable and great for the hot weather.
Swimwear- You WILL go to the beach. Enough said.
Sunglasses – Protect your eyes and look cool, you’re in paradise!
Sunblock – Get one with strong UV protection, Puerto Rico’s tropical sun has no mercy.
Suntan lotion– Well, if you’re into getting really tanned, this will just speedup the process.
Aloe Vera lotion – In case you took your tanning a step too far. Will help soothe the burning sensation. Believe me, it’s not a pretty sensation, especially if on your back.
Beach bag (or day pack) and beach towel – You know, to put all these things I’ve mentioned before and to look very cool, casual, and even sexy while laying on the sand.
Light sweater/jacket – It is highly unlikely you will use it unless you go during “winter” (notice the quotes, since winter in Puerto Rico is still hot!). But, nights might get in the low 70s or high 60s… I know, I know… this is still so tropical!
Toiletries and medicines – Pack only the essential. There are pharmacies at every corner where you’ll find anything else.
Evening wear– For some reason, women (and men) love to dress up when going out at night for dinner or to the nightclub (this is mostly in the San Juan area). Don’t just stand out from the crowd by wearing any random travel attire. Do dress up a bit and you’ll see how awesome a night in Puerto Rico can be!
Camera – Um, yes, the country is beautiful, so you should take lots of pictures to show your friends back at home and make them jealous.
ID / Passport / Documents – If you’re an American citizen, you don’t need a passport to go to Puerto Rico; just a photo ID will suffice. For kids, usually a birth certificate is good for travel.
Some extra items for the adventurous ones:
Mosquito net– If you’ll go camping or stay at a parador deep in the mountains, you’ll probably need this – especially in the rainy season.
Mosquito repellent – No one like to get bitten by mosquitoes, right?
Camping gear– You can buy these at any big box store or camping store for a relatively cheaper price, but if you have your preferred camping equipment, bring it.
Hiking boots– There are lots of excellent hiking trails, so get your feel comfortable because you will walk a lot.
Waterproof Jacket – During the rainy season, it does rain a lot! Hint: Puerto Rico has the only tropical rainforest in the United States National Forest System. Know which one it is? El Yunque.
Forgot to pack something?
Don’t worry, there are all major stores found in the US readily available in Puerto Rico. For sure, whatever you will need, you’ll find there.
While you’re packing, don’t forget to get a travel insurance policy from RoamRight. Get coverage for situations that may result in a cancelled trip, or for medical emergencies that may happen while you’re away from home.
What to Wear in Puerto Rico
Top style tips for Puerto Rico
Casual clothes in lightweight natural fabrics (cotton, silk and linen) will work best – it is warm and sunny but not unbearably hot all year round.
However, the nights tend to be a little cooler so a sweater or wrap is worth popping in your case. Ensure you also bring a versatile travel jacket. We love the SCOTTeVEST travel jacket because it has over 23 pockets, removable sleeves and RFID protection.
Go for comfort and style.
Daytime essentials include t-shirts, camisoles, sarong and shorts as most people spend their time on the beach or by the pool.
And remember your sunhat, sunglasses, and sunscreen (we love the Riemann P20 range for 10 hour protection).
Mosquitoes can be a problem, so take insect/mosquito repellent and cover up with long sleeves and pants when you can, particularly in the evenings if you are outdoors. Avoid wearing any scent or perfume.
Shoes to pack for Puerto Rico
Our advice would be to pack some flat sandals for the beach, We love the Lindsay Phillips Switch Flops range – using interchangeable shoe and flip-flop bases with snap-on decorations, you can change your look from day to evening in an instant whilst still packing light.
If you plan to explore the island, take some lightweight comfy shoes for walking. We love Hotter shoes, for total comfort along with style.
Clothing tips for women
Keep swimwear to the beach and pool, and cover up with a kaftan or sarong when walking around public areas.
For evenings, dress is casual; ladies tend to wear short summer sundresses – and take a pashmina as just after a downpour it cools very quickly, but only temporarily.
A few well-chosen pieces of costume jewelry will transform any outfit.
And a pashmina is a versatile piece that will dress up any outfit, as well as providing cover from the sun or a chilly breeze.
Clothing tips for men
If you’re looking for versatile and stylish beachwear, try the Madda Fella range of shirts, shorts, polos and swimwear.
For evenings, dress is casual; long shorts or pants and short-sleeved shirts.
Pack for the weather
Rain is common during May, June, July, August, September, October, November and December – August and November having the most. A light raincoat and/or travel umbrella will come in handy. You do still get lots of sunshine though, and will dry quickly with the high temperatures.
We love the Weather+ app – it gives an accurate 6 day forecast for day and night, which when you’re planning from home is really helpful. You can keep all the places you’ve been to too – a nice way to remember your trip 🙂 Download for iPad/iPhone or Android
Regions of Puerto Rico
If you are keen on doing a jungle hike be sure to pack suitable footwear (sturdy sneakers or walking shoes). Don’t do it in slip-ons or flip flops!
Other things to pack
A lightweight day sack or beach bag will come in handy to carry your sightseeing essentials.
The tap water is officially safe to drink, but may not be to your taste. You may prefer bottled water, so consider carrying a LifeStraw Filtration Water Bottle instead – fill up from any source and get clean, safe drinking water without wasting plastic bottles.
Look after your mobile phone with a phone bunjee – it protects against loss, theft and damage.
To use electrical gadgets you may need a travel adapter plug, and also a step up voltage converter if your devices are not designed for local voltage (120V).
If you’re aiming to travel with just carry-on baggage, try the CabinMax soft-sided rucksack – it’s light, roomy and has plenty of pockets to keep your stuff organized.
Avoid paying unexpected baggage fees – use an accurate luggage scale to ensure you keep within the weight allowance. Don’t forget to leave room for souvenirs on the way home! Puerto Rican coffee is some of the best in the world, or for something different how about a papier mache mask to hang on your wall.
What to Wear on Vacation in Spain
It’s time to get ready for your upcoming trip. Whether it’s a weekend getaway or a week-long vacation, you want to be sure that you’re prepared for any occasion.
But what do you wear?
In this blog post, we’ll tell you what to wear in Spain and how to pack for your trip so that you can feel confident and comfortable while exploring one of the most beautiful countries in Europe.
There are a lot of things to consider when you’re packing for your next vacation. You want to make sure you have everything you need to be comfortable, but you also want to make sure that you don’t bring too much stuff with you.
Even if it’s just for a weekend trip, there are some essentials that everyone should have in their bag. Here are five things that every vacationer should keep with them during their travels:
If you need other ideas, these are some of the common Spain fashion trends they see around the city during the day:
- Denim skirts.
- Shorts of any kind.
- Flowy pants and skirts.
- Long and short sundresses.
- Fun jumpsuits.
Depending on where you go, looking like a local in Spain can have many different meanings. You might be planning your Barcelona bike adventure, winding along the warm paths and watching endless beach volleyball matches. Or maybe you’re excited to watch the sunset over San Sebastián’s bay-front, or you’re headed to Madrid to see the baroque Royal Palace. (Or even something else—there’s a ton to do!)
Madrid, Spain
For example, in Madrid, you’ll want to explore the city by foot and witness all the beautiful architecture. Pack comfortably!
Wherever you’re headed, we’ve gathered information on how to fit in with Spain fashion, and even included some tips from two new expats who are currently finding their Spanish style in San Sebastián and Madrid. Let’s get rid of that packing anxiety with our best tips on how to feel at home in Spain.
Spain fashion trends: 5 tips to help you blend in
- Presentation Matters
In Spain, no matter where you are, locals present themselves with much care and self-expression. You could say that Spanish style is to be well put together. Fore example, athletic clothing is rarely seen outside of the gym as well as sweat pants, yoga pants or loungewear.
Tip one? Looking presentable is whatever that means to you. Presentation can be confidence, it can be wearing your favorite shirt, and it can also be getting out of your comfort zone. Traveling in Spain can be an opportunity to explore your style.
Santa Cruz, Sevilla, Spain
The Spanish dress code? Wear what you feel best in.
Wear what makes you feel confident and comfortable. You know that head up shoulders back feeling? This is an opportunity to feel this way every day- so wear what makes you feel – YOU.
- All the Sandals
Prepare yourself, you’re about to develop a sandal obsession. Spaniards have fantastic taste in sandals. One new Spanish-style trend is platform sandals, which add a bit of height and conformability. The best part about the sandals in Spain is they’re all totally unique to each person, so bring your favorite pair or go buy some that stand out, either way you’ll fit right in to Spain fashion.
Another tip—Spaniards match their shoes with their activities. For example, flip flops are mostly seen at the beach, however, nicer lifestyle sandals are seen throughout the city.
Madrid, Spain
Summer fashion in Spain: your shoe should match the occasion!
- Show off some sneakers
Sneakers are also a staple piece when traveling in Spain, which makes exploring much more comfortable. Nicer sneakers are paired with EVERYTHING. This includes dresses, skirts, shorts, jeans you name it. Currently, platform sneakers can be frequently seen throughout the day.
Remember, presentation is valued by Spaniards, which means running shoes are seen at the gym and lifestyle sneakers are worn around the city. One thing to keep in mind is packing shoes for the nightlife!
The Spain dress code for a night involves dressing up! You’ll see heels, nice sandals, dress shoes, loafers, leather shoes or nice sneakers. Whether you’re visiting a club or bar you can’t go wrong dressing up.
crowd at a bar
It’s best to be overdressed.
- As for your closet…
The best advice when packing for Spain, bring your top five favorite pieces of clothing- that shirt you wear on a first date, or the dress you always pick out for a party. Stay away from everything else. When you start packing clothing that you don’t wear at home, guess what… it will probably stay in your suitcase.
Imagine yourself enjoying gelato on the streets of Seville or walking through a spacious park in Alicante. Bring what you would feel confident in. If you’re worried you don’t have enough… all the more reason to find some Spain fashion that you can add to your collection!
Self-expression is valued in Spain so bring bright colors, outfits that you stand out in, and leave room in your suitcase to pick something up when you’re there.
[Related: Fashion Design Internships Abroad in Spain]
- Accessories, Accessories, Accessories.
You might want to think about switching it up from a purse to a crossbody fanny pack or mini backpack, which can be seen throughout the streets of Spain. A mini backpack is big enough for your wallet, keys, and sunglasses. Just make sure you watch your back for pickpockets.
Crossbody fanny packs are also a new purse alternative. They are sold along the streets in Madrid so you can buy one there or hop online now.
Monestir de Montserrat, Spain
Pack something that would make you feel beautiful if you were to jump into this picture!
Final Spain fashion trends to help you prepare!
Just remember to wear what makes you feel confident and comfortable. Hopefully, these Spain fashion trends can expand your wardrobe and give you the same feeling your favorite pair of jeans does. If you need other ideas, these are some of the common Spain fashion trends they see around the city during the day:
Denim skirts
Shorts of any kind
Flowy pants and skirts
Long and short sundresses
Fun jumpsuits
As for the nightlife, Spaniards love to dress up, here are a few suggestions:
Bring a pair of classic heels
A nice dress or top
A button-up shirt
Leather shoe, dress shoe, or nice sneaker
If you’re still unsure of what to bring, leave some room in your suitcase and go find a few things that make you feel you!
Girls taking a selfie
The key to looking like a local is wearing what makes you feel unique.
Feel more comfortable about your upcoming trip to Spain?
Now it’s time to decide what the heck you’re going to do while traveling in Spain. Consider getting your TEFL certification, interning, volunteering, or studying abroad, and instead of trying to look like a local, you’ll be able to become one (almost!).
Remember at the end of the day, Spain is a place of individuality and boldness so wear what you love and you’ll fit right in. Oh, and don’t forget to plan your return adventure.
Espero que tengas un buen viaje!
What to Pack for Spain Vacations: Year Round Packing List
what-to-pack-for-spain-vacations-a-seasonal-guide
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If you’re wondering about what to wear in Spain, these three travelers have the inside scoop! We have expat Brandy from It’s One World Travel who’s lived in Spain the last seven years; Lola from Miss Filatelista lived in and explored the country for nearly a year; and seasoned traveler Sebrin from The Clumsy Traveler. Read on to find out the essentials on their packing list when traveling to Madrid, Barcelona, San Sebastian, Valencia, Seville and other parts of Spain.
What to Wear in Spain: Packing List
What to wear in Spain will vary based on the season and the autonomous community that you’ll be visiting. While Spanish weather and scenery may vary local style choices are based on comfort, color, and coordination. Once you’ve researched the weather, you can focus on creating a capsule travel wardrobe.
If you ever get the chance to witness a Spanish wedding you’ll see women in fashionable fancy ensembles, often combined with tocados, like a British fascinator.
Everyday style isn’t quite as avant-garde but Spanish women do like to have fun with fashion and express their personalities through their outfits. Keep this in mind when deciding what to wear in Spain.
If you forget to add something to your Spain packing list, don’t worry; most cities have a Zara or Mango where you’ll be able to stock up on Spanish duds for a fraction of the cost at home.
Spain Packing Tips
Pack comfortable, durable items that can be mixed and matched into cute outfits. Some of Spain’s most historic sites like the Moorish Alhambra palace in Granada, trekking along the seaside cliffs in San Sebastian, and visiting Gaudi’s masterpiece Parc Guell, require hours of walking.
Comfortable footwear is a must for Spain, but you can also pack a low chunky heel that can be worn out at night or for less strenuous activities.
These experts are giving you the inside scoop on their twenty-one top picks for the most comfortable shoes. Take a look!
Weather in Spain varies and it’s never a bad idea to have a lightweight scarf in your bag and on your Spain packing list. The temperature is different throughout the country. You’ll need cold weather accessories in Madrid, the central mountain areas, and the far north. In the south, you’ll need a lightweight jacket and an umbrella.
If you’re traveling to various climates in Spain, you’ll want to think of layers while building your Spain packing list. A tee shirt and jeans with low heeled booties are a great option during spring, but in the fall you may need a thick pair of socks and knit hat in the Basque Country, or a chunky cardigan layered with a heavy scarf in Galicia and an umbrella, it rains a lot there!
Read to find out how to choose the best and warmest long underwear for women!
When creating your Spain packing list, choose one base neutral colored pair of shoes–black or brown. Organize the rest of the items around what would look good with those shoes and function for the activities you’ve planned.
Having a minimalist travel wardrobe is key for a light Spain packing list. Spain is full of mainstream and unique mom and pop shops so bring fewer accessories so you have room to buy new wearable souvenirs during your trip.
Which luggage accessories and packing organizers will work best for you?
I always include aromatherapy oils on my Spain packing list. I use the natural scents instead of perfume and choose mood boasting aromas that help keep me calm and relaxed during hectic travel situations.
I also keep one in my bag and sniff it if I ever come across something foul smelling or want to smell nice unexpectedly–like when meeting a handsome Spanish barista. I use ADORAtherapy as they’re all natural, wearable on the skin, and come in travel size containers with easy to use roll-on applicators.
These are the best travel containers because you pack only what you need!
Spain Clothing Style
Style in Spain is similar to any western country, so that makes it easier to choose what to pack for Spain. Trends are no longer unique to countries due to fast fashion stores, like Spanish brands Mango and Zara.
Whatever you’d wear at home is probably equally acceptable here, but you’re on vacation so you’ll want to pack fun, memorable outfits that will photograph well.
In major cities, like Madrid and Barcelona, you’ll see women who are incredibly stylish and look like they’ve walked right out of a photo shoot. But you’ll also see lots of bohemian, preppy, punk, and conservative looks.
Personal style in Spain can vary and you’re sure to find all sorts of fashions, be inspired by your surroundings. Don’t be afraid to compliment a Spanish woman if you like something she’s wearing. She’ll probably tell you where you can get it!
When in doubt, a safe choice is wearing jeans paired with a nice top and classic flats. When visiting cathedrals, bring along a shawl or scarf to cover up and respect local religion.
If you’re planning to go out at night, then plan to dress up a bit. If you’re staying in a beach town, you can go for a more casual look.
The key to packing light is to use packing cubes to compress your clothing as shown in this video!
Plan for what to wear in Spain with this packing guide:
What to Wear in Spain in Fall
Fall is the perfect time to discover the great outdoors in Spain. The country has many mountain ranges boasting beautiful hikes! Warm tapas are made for this season and the weather will still be warm enough to enjoy your meal outdoors and watch the changing leaves.
Temperatures drop in Spain during autumn, which is from September to November, but it varies according to the location. In the north in Galicia, it can be very cold this season; in Madrid and the south, you can feel the heat until mid-October. That’s when it starts to be cold again.
Start by reading these general tips on packing for autumn travel:
How to Pack for Trips with Mixed Weather
How to Layer Clothes
Use a Summer Dress to Pack Light in Fall
Best Shoes for Traveling in Spring and Fall
Spain Packing List for Fall
Fall is much brighter than gloomy winter in Spain and a perfect time to wear warm hues like orange, reds, and yellows and layer with cozy separates like flannel shirts, leather pants, and denim jackets.
You likely won’t need a full hat-gloves-scarf set but a floppy wool hat and stylish blanket scarf should be enough to keep you cozy, especially at night.
Here are eight different ways to wear a scarf when you travel!
Avoid adding a bulky winter jacket to your Spain packing list by wearing lots of layers instead. A faux fur vest will keep you warm and stylish as you explore Spain.
You’ll miss out on lots of beautiful sites if you skip out on walking to and from your destinations due to the cold. Pack appropriately and always bring more layers than you think you’ll need. Don’t forget comfy shoes!
Discover our top 10 brands for the best thermal underwear for women!
When choosing what to wear in Spain, go for a tee as your base with a cardigan or button up shirt as a layering item. If it gets too warm you can wear your jacket just with the base, or if it gets too cold you can wrap up the layering item and close up your coat for extra warmth.
It is not practical or comfortable to wear heels in Spain, regardless of the season. Most local women don’t wear them out at night either so you still feel stylish and appropriate in booties or flats. Keep this in mind for your Spain packing list!
Shop the best ankle boots for fall and travel with them for just about any cold weather destination all year long!
what-to-pack-for-Spain-vacations
Sweater | Denim | Shirt | Blouse | Dress | Shirtdress | Jeans | Jeans | Jacket | Raincoat | Sweater | Skirt | Boots | Flats | Vest | Bag
What to Wear in Spain in Winter
Winter in Spain occurs from December to mid-March. There is a misconception that Spain is always warm. I was even told I wouldn’t need a winter jacket in Madrid. This is not true! Temperatures may not get crazy low in Madrid, and snow is really rare, but wind chill and rain call for weatherproof accessories.
Not only does it snow in parts of the country, but in January to February there’s a lot of rain showers in the north. Occasionally dry and drafty, you’d better layer up if you’re visiting in winter. A sturdy and travel-sized umbrella can quickly become your best travel mate, so add these to your Spain packing list.
Start by reading these general tips on packing for winter travel:
Capsule Wardrobe for Winter
How to Pack for Cold Weather
How to Stay Warm in Cold Weather (without the bulk)
The Best Travel Shoes for Winter
Spain Packing List for Winter
When deciding what to wear in Spain, pack at least a pair of jeans and a pair of thick leggings. If you plan to explore the north of Spain where some of the most fantastic cities are – like Bilbao, San Sebastian, and Asturias you may even want to layer your leggings underneath your jeans. Barcelona around the holidays can be so mild that you might only need a trench coat and thin wool scarf in the morning but just a sweater in the afternoon.
Spain’s many islands, like Ibiza, Mallorca, and the Canary Islands, also stay quite moderate in the winter, and can even be warm at times. You may not exactly need to add a swimsuit to your Spain packing list but you can probably at least take a walk on the beach or have dinner at an outdoor terrace near the sea.
These tips on how to stay warm in cold weather are a must-read!
Andalusia’s many historic cities are wonderful to explore in the winter due to mild temperatures but the weather can fluctuate a lot during the day, especially if you’re traveling to higher altitudes, so having a scarf in your bag is never a bad idea. And it makes for a fashionable accessory.
The cold weather accessories that you need to pack for a comfortable and cozy winter trip to Spain will depend entirely on your destination. If you aren’t sure about the weather, or are visiting multiple climates, pack a basic set of hat, scarves, gloves.
Accessories can be both practical and stylish and we’re going to show you how with these fashionable winter accessories for women!
If you like to wear shorts, skirts, or dresses, make sure to add at least one pair of thick tights to your Spain packing list to keep your legs from freezing at night. You can always buy warmer items once you are in Spain if the weather calls for it. It can be wet throughout the country in the winter months you may want to avoid packing your favorite pair of sneakers. Faux leather ankle booties with sturdy soles that can be worn for both daytime explorations and nights out and make a great addition to your outfit.
If you plan to spend time outdoors hiking, or exploring Spain’s many vineyards, a stylish pair of hiking boots will make it easier to tread through mud. Rain boots are an option too but generally a pain to pack and not really necessary as you can seek shelter indoors during bursts of rain.
Find out how to choose hiking boots and the five styles TFG readers voted as their favorites!
Thick socks are a lifesaver when trying to keep feet warm in damp weather. Pack a few pairs as they make take time to dry after a good soak and have fun by packing a few different style lengths, knits, patterns, and colors. Your socks sometimes may be the only variety in your daily outfits if you’re wearing the same coat and accessories every day!
Depending on your destination will determine what kind of outerwear you need to add to your Spain packing list. Women can be seen wearing fur jackets, while down jackets are popular for younger people. In Madrid and the north of Spain, you will need a long wool coat or down jacket.
In the south of Spain, you’ll be fine with a trench coat or military style coat worn over layers. Even if you’re coming to Spain from a warmer climate, wear your jacket on your flight to save space in your luggage.
Need a coat? Here are the best down jackets to wear over your layers!
what-to-pack-for-Spain-vacations
Blouse | Sleeveless | Sweater | Long Sleeve | Dress | Shirtdress | Leggings | Jeans | Jacket 1 | Jacket 2 | Top | Skirt | Boots | Flat | Hat | Bag
What to Wear in Spain in Spring
Spring is one of the most beautiful times to visit Spain. The weather is warm, but not too hot, flowers bloom in abandon, and the streets come to life with music and delicious farm fresh foods. It’s a great season for upping your style.
If you have the chance to visit a feria in Andalucia or see the patios of Cordoba you’ll get to immerse yourself in the Spanish celebrations of spring.
Madrid is also amazing to visit in the spring with trips to the famous art museums, Rastro market, and boat rides at Retiro park.
While March and April can still be chilly, it starts to warm up in May. It will still be cold during the first weeks of the season, so make sure you have a warm jacket on your Spain packing list. Warmth comes with the sun, but as soon as it disappears you can feel the draft, so it’s best to layer your clothing when choosing what to wear in Spain.
Start by reading these general tips on packing for spring travel:
How to Pack for Trips with Mixed Weather
How to Layer a Summer Dress for Spring
How to Pack for Europe in Spring
Best Shoes for Traveling in Spring and Fall
Spain Packing List for Spring
Have fun with your travel outfits in the spring. Bright colors, pastels, and florals are appropriate for this season, as everyone mimics nature’s vivid colors. Long tunic tops are paired with leggings, replacing trousers and denim.
Florals are always a good idea for your Spain packing list. Try pairing a floral skirt with a striped blouse or Flamenco inspired polka dot skirt with a sheer tank to play with textures, fabrics, and patterns for a truly Spanish inspired ensemble.
Here’s what TFG readers voted on the best leggings for women who travel!
A versatile maxi dress is an ideal look for spring for exploring La Rioja vineyards, historic Granada, or the many medieval pueblos like Ronda, Toledo, Avila, and others.
Weather may be wet so opt for plastic or rubber sandals over leather goods so you don’t destroy your favorite pair. Ballet flats or converse are also super comfortable for sightseeing all day in Spain.
We’ve got a round up of cute and comfortable ballet flats to wear at home and abroad!
Dining out is popular in this fair weather, but make sure you bring along a scarf or a jacket. March can still be quite chilly so a denim jacket or blanket scarf can be a lifesaver when the weather gets crisp.
By May, the weather is already heating up and you won’t need a jacket, but will want to make sure you’ve included a swimsuit on your Spain packing list, especially if you’re heading to Malaga or Valencia!
Find out why we love these lightweight jackets for travel!
what-to-pack-for-Spain-vacations
Top | Sleeveless | Tank | Longsleeve | Dress | Shirtdress | Leggings | Shorts | Jacket | Sweater | Top | Skirt | Sandals | Flat | Hat | Bag
What to Wear in Spain in Summer
Spain is a vast country with different cities, vibes and ideals. But one thing is for sure: Spain in the summer is hot, hot, hot! Pair that with the millions of tourists visiting this season and it is near stifling.
Cities in the center of the country, like Madrid and Seville, can reach up to 113º F, while coastal cities are closer to 90’s. It’s also not completely unheard of to experience some rain in the beginning of June. If you have flexible travel dates, aim to go around this time. August is definitely the hottest month with record-breaking temperatures, no rain, and lots of crowds. Your Spain packing list will feature a lot of light pieces.
Start by reading these general tips on packing for summer travel:
Capsule Wardrobe for Summer
Top Summer Dresses Perfect for Europe
Lightweight Jackets for Easy Layers
Best Walking Shoes for Europe’s Cobblestone Streets
Spain Packing List for Summer
Spain is a very playful and colorful location, rich in culture and traditions that are reflected in modern fashion. During the summer, you’re going to want to choose breathable and comfortable clothing to beat the heat.
But have fun with it! Wear a flirty sun dress, some cute cut off shorts, off-the-shoulder tops or a bright, colorful tee. Your wardrobe should be fun and frisky to reflect your destination.
For added versatility, these are popular convertible travel dress styles!
Sun dresses, shorts, tank tops and even crop tops are perfectly acceptable ways to dress throughout Spain. If you plan on going into any museums or churches, just be sure your stomach and shoulders are covered so as not to offend.
The evening brings a reprise from the heat, but you still won’t need any pants. Dresses or shorts with a blouse is commonplace for the club or bar scene. Again, be sure to cover up based on your surroundings.
Take a look at these sundress outfits that transform an everyday summer dress!
what-to-pack-for-Spain-vacations
Sunglasses | Travel Guide | Cross Body Bag | Scarf
Spain Travel Essentials
The perfect accessories to add color to any outfit are a handbag and a scarf. You can use your handbag, belts, and scarves to brighten up an otherwise neutral outfit. Don’t forget the perfect daytime accessory: sunglasses.
The perfect travel bag for your Spain packing list is a crossbody bag. To take your look from day to night, use a removable chain or strap to transform it from a crossbody into an elegant clutch.
You must add sandals to your Spain packing list for casual beach/city days and sneakers for active wear or additional support. If you’re planning on going to a nice dinner or dancing flamenco, bring appropriate fancy shoes.
Spain Luggage Tips
So the hard part’s out of the way; after much turmoil you’ve finally perfected your travel wardrobe and created a Spain packing list, now it’s time to get packing! Which luggage will work best for you?
Depending on how many days or weeks you’re traveling, you may want to use packing organizers, which allow optimum use of the space in your luggage, keeping everything organized and in place during your travels, and making the task of unpacking and repacking simple and stress-free.
As you’re headed to fashionable Europe, use an equally stylish carry-on, such as the Osprey Ozone, which is a personal favorite. Keep in mind that most of Europe’s budget airlines have a carry-on bag allowance of 55cm x 40cm x 20cm. Always check your airlines individual baggage rules and regulations in advance.
Spain Accommodations
Like any major tourist destination in Europe, accommodations are aplenty here in Spain. From villas and luxury hotels to hostels and homestays, you have plenty of options to choose from. If you want to make it a real summer trip, try staying on a boat and travel from one beach city to the next.
We love Airbnb for accommodation in Spain. Sign up here for a free $40 credit! I prefer to book “the entire home” instead of opting for shared accommodation on Airbnb.
Aside from safety, I also like to feel like I’m living in the destination. It’s a small taste of local life plus you get more amenities than you would at a hotel such as a kitchen and washing machine.
If you prefer the convenience and comfort of a hotel room, I like using both Agoda.com and Hotels.com. Tip: Hotels.com gives you a free night for every ten nights you book!
For hostels, we recommend Hostelworld and Hostelbookers. Always read the reviews before booking to get the best idea if the hostel is right for you. Some are quiet and family friendly while others are known for their party atmosphere.
Spain Transportation
Major cities like Madrid, Seville and Barcelona have incredible public transportation. From taxis to buses, you will find affordable transportation throughout. It’s also very easy to get from city to city. Road tripping in your own car, trains, buses and even airplanes fly to several destinations within the country.
What To Do in Spain
History and beautiful beaches are just about everywhere in Spain. And with such a diverse range of landscapes, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. If you’re looking to escape the typical tourists traps, try a day trip from Barcelona to Montserrat or Lloret de Mar.
A trip to Avila or Toledo is the perfect spot to visit from Madrid. You can even fly to the less known Canary Islands for your very own private adventure. Or you can drive from Barcelona to Gibraltar and see where the wind takes you!
If you’re looking to have a typical Spanish-style experience enjoy a flamenco show, run with the bulls in Pamplona, throw tomatoes at La Tomatina, go surfing in Mundaka, see Gaudí in Barcelona or party it up in Ibiza.
The nightlife scene in Madrid is vibrant, with most clubs getting busy around 1 AM and partiers staying until 6 AM dancing and socializing. Some clubs may have dress codes but you’ll see your fair share of locals dressed super casually, even in tee shirts and sneakers. Barcelona tends to be a bit more upscale and Ibiza is the place to see and be seen in your most stylish dresses.
If clubs aren’t your scene, don’t worry there are endless Spanish tapas and wine bars where you can spend lazy nights enjoying delicious food and beautiful Spanish guitar music. Here your outfit can be what you’ve worn sightseeing all day, or more dressed up, it’s really up to your personal preference.
More often than not you may feel overdressed but as long as you feel good in what you’re wearing and have a good time, that’s all anyone will care about.
These are a few popular Spain guidebooks:
Lonely Planet Spain
Rick Steves Spain
Fodors Essential Spain
Spain Safety Tips
Petty theft in Spain is very prevalent. In fact, the country is ranked #1 in the world for travel insurance claims. Always keep an eye on your things, and remember to pack them securely.
Make your clothing theft-proof and choose items with strong zippers. Jeans are handy for this reason: you can put important items, like your wallet and phone, in your front pockets, where it’s very difficult for a wandering hand to snatch it. Add items like the Secret Stash Bra Pocket and Underwear with Pockets to your packing list.
And be mindful of purse snatchers! They either slash the bottom of your bag so the content fall out or slash the strap. Wear your purse strap across your body and the zipper towards the front.
