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.
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Written by
John Morrison is the founder and lead travel writer at Packzup. Over the past decade he has explored destinations across Africa, the Americas, Asia, Europe, the Middle East, and Oceania — always self-funded, never on a press trip.