What to Pack for Spain: Complete Packing List

What to Pack for Spain 2026: Complete Packing List

Spain packing varies wildly by region — beach essentials for Andalusia, layers for Madrid year-round, and dressy options for tapas-bar evenings everywhere.

Quick Pack List Summary

Spain packing varies wildly by region — beach essentials for Andalusia, layers for Madrid year-round, and dressy options for tapas-bar evenings everywhere.

Spain Packing List by Category

Essentials

EU Type C/F plug adapter

Passport + photocopies

€100-150 cash for tapas bars + tips

Crossbody bag

Reusable water bottle

Sunscreen SPF 50+ (Spanish sun intense)

Clothing (Summer May-Sep)

Lightweight + breathable — Seville/Cordoba 40°C+ in July-August

Linen pants + sundresses

Comfortable sandals + walking sneakers

Swimsuit + cover-up for Mediterranean/Atlantic beaches

Wide-brimmed hat + sunglasses

Long-sleeve cotton shirt for sun protection during day

Light scarf or cardigan for AC restaurants

Clothing (Fall/Winter Oct-Apr)

Wool coat + scarf for Madrid (0-10°C winter)

Light jacket for Andalusia (12-18°C winter)

Waterproof shoes for occasional rain

Layers for indoor heating vs. cool outside

Tapas + Nightlife

Smart casual outfit (Spaniards dress up to go out, even casual tapas)

Comfortable shoes that double as evening wear

Light cardigan for late-night chill (dinner starts 10pm)

What NOT to Pack

Heels for cobblestone old towns — Granada, Seville, Toledo all impossible

Heavy backpack (small crossbody enough)

Hair dryer (all hotels provide)

Excessive cash (cards widely accepted)

Pro Tip: Spaniards eat late (lunch 2-4pm, dinner 9-11pm) and dress up for it. “Smart casual” beats athleisure. Siesta closures (2-5pm) mean plan museum visits early or late afternoon.

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

Spain Packing FAQ

What should I wear in Spain?

Smart casual — Spaniards dress up even for casual tapas. Light fabrics in summer; layers in spring/fall; warm coat in Madrid winter.

Is Spain hot in summer?

Yes — Seville, Cordoba, Madrid hit 38-42°C in July-August. Coastal areas (Barcelona, Valencia) cooler 25-30°C. Plan major sightseeing for morning + evening.

Do you need cash in Spain?

Cards widely accepted but small tapas bars + markets prefer cash. Carry €50-100 in small bills.

What shoes for Spain?

Comfortable sneakers + sandals for walking. Cobblestone old towns (Granada, Seville) destroy heels. Bring one dressy pair for nightlife.

Is Spain safe?

Generally yes — watch for pickpockets in Barcelona Las Ramblas + Madrid Sol + tourist sites. Wear crossbody bag in front.