What to Pack for Germany: Complete Packing List

What to Pack for Germany 2026: Complete Packing List

Germany packing depends heavily on city + season — Berlin’s casual edge vs. Bavarian tradition vs. Christmas markets cold. Practical layers + waterproof outerwear are universal.

Quick Pack List Summary

Germany packing depends heavily on city + season — Berlin’s casual edge vs. Bavarian tradition vs. Christmas markets cold. Practical layers + waterproof outerwear are universal.

Germany Packing List by Category

Essentials

EU Type C/F plug adapter

Passport + photocopies

€100-200 cash (many small establishments cash-only)

Crossbody bag

Reusable water bottle

Compact umbrella

Clothing (Summer May-Sep)

T-shirts + long pants (Munich 25-30°C, Berlin 20-25°C)

Light jacket for evenings

Comfortable walking shoes (Berlin walks are LONG)

Sun hat + sunglasses

Swimsuit for lake swimming (Bavaria, Hamburg)

Clothing (Fall/Winter Oct-Mar)

Warm wool coat + thermal layers — Christmas markets stand in freezing cold

Waterproof boots

Wool scarf + gloves + beanie

Hand warmers for outdoor markets

Long underwear for January-February (regularly -5 to -10°C)

For Beer Halls + Berghain

Smart casual for restaurants

All-black for Berlin clubs (Berghain bouncers + dress code)

Comfortable closed shoes (no sneakers at upscale Munich)

Tech

Phone with DB Navigator app (train booking)

SIM/eSIM (Vodafone €15/month) — many cafes lack WiFi

Power bank

What NOT to Pack

Hair dryer (provided)

Sandals in winter (snow common Nov-Mar)

Excessive American clothes — German style is muted

Pro Tip: Berlin clubs (Berghain especially) have strict dress codes: all black, comfortable shoes, no group of more than 3, look like you’re a regular. Munich beer halls (Hofbräuhaus) are casual but no flip-flops.

Planning your Germany trip? See our Germany travel guide, best time to visit, destinations index, or our Ultimate Bucket List.

Germany Packing FAQ

What should I wear in Germany?

Layers — weather changes quickly. Smart casual for cities, warm + waterproof for Christmas markets, all-black for Berlin clubs.

Do you need cash in Germany?

Yes — bakeries, restaurants, taxis often cash-only. Many bars in Berlin still cash-only. Carry €100-200 in small bills.

How cold is Germany in winter?

Berlin/Munich average 0-5°C with snow regular November-February. Christmas markets stand in -5 to -10°C — bring layers.

What plug adapter for Germany?

EU Type F (or Type C — both work). Same as France, Italy, Spain.

Can you wear shorts in Germany?

Yes in summer cities; no in churches; questionable in upscale restaurants or beer halls. Berliner Sommer 2-3 weeks of true heat justifies them.