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What to Pack

What to Pack

Austria

Spring April-May Attire

Temperatures are mild. Mornings and evenings are cool. Pack light sweaters, cardigans, and Long-sleeved shirts. Jeans or comfortable trousers are good choices.

Outerwear & Layering

Summer June-August Attire

These are the warmest months. Light, breathable clothing like cotton or linen is appropriate. Shorts, skirts, and t-shirts are suitable. Evenings may see temperatures drop, especially if it rained.

Evenings & Rain Gear

  • Pack a light sweater, cardigan, or denim jacket for evenings.
  • A Lightweight rain jacket and small, Compact travel umbrella are useful for thunderstorms.
  • Layering: T-shirt as a base, with a light long-sleeved shirt or light jacket for evenings.

Footwear Section

Comfortable Walking Shoes

This is the most important item. Salzburg's Altstadt has charming but uneven cobblestone streets. Supportive and Comfortable shoes are needed. Much walking is present.

High priority for comfort.

Waterproof Shoes/Boots

Highly recommended for spring, autumn, and winter. Protection for your feet from rain, slush, or snow is present. In winter, insulated, Waterproof boots with good grip are needed.

Useful for wet conditions.

Hiking Boots

If mountain excursions or longer trails outside the city are planned, dedicated Hiking boots offer necessary ankle support and grip.

For outdoor adventures.

Essential Documents

Documents

These are your most important travel documents. Keep your passport secure, ideally in a Money belt or Secure travel wallet. Make digital and physical copies, storing them separately from originals.

  • Passport & Visa Documentation: Digital and physical copies are important.
  • Travel Insurance Policy: Policy number, emergency contacts, coverage summary.
  • International Driving Permit (IDP): Needed if driving and non-EU/EEA license.
  • Vaccination Records & Health Documentation: Useful, doctor's note for conditions.
  • Printed/Digital Reservations: Hotel, flight, tour, car rental copies.
  • Emergency Contact Info: Family, embassy, bank lost/stolen card number.
  • Student/Senior/Press IDs: For discounts where applicable (ISIC card is good).
  • Check visa requirements for your nationality carefully.

Technology & Electronics

Power & Connectivity

Modern travel often means bringing along a suite of electronics. Austria uses Type F (Schuko) or Type C sockets, standard across mainland Europe. Voltage is 230V, frequency 50Hz.

Adapter Needs

Mobile Phone & Camera

Your mobile phone should be compatible with European GSM networks. Most modern smartphones are compatible. Consider local SIM cards or eSIM plans for cost-effective data and calls.

Photography Gear

  • A versatile mirrorless or DSLR with zoom lens is suitable.
  • A high-quality Smartphone camera or compact point-and-shoot camera is sufficient.
  • Extra batteries, memory cards, and a Portable charger are crucial.

Data Backup & Security

Cloud Storage

Use services like Google Drive, Dropbox, or iCloud for automatic backup of photos and documents.

External Hard Drive

For larger volumes of photos, a Small external hard drive is useful for daily backups.

Offline Resources

Download offline maps of Salzburg and any necessary apps for use without data.

Health & Wellness Items

First Aid & OTC Meds

Having a small personal supply of health and wellness items prepares for minor issues. This ensures preferred specific items are present. A tailored First aid kit for common travel ailments is good.

Kit Contents

  • Plasters, antiseptic wipes, sterile gauze pads, medical tape.
  • Preferred over-the-counter pain relievers (Ibuprofen, Acetaminophen), antihistamines.
  • Antidiarrheal medication, anti-nausea tablets, stomach settlers. Blister plasters or Moleskin.

Personal Needs & Climate Protection

All prescription medications should be in original packaging with clear labels. A copy of your prescription is useful. For controlled substances, a doctor's note explaining the medication is present.

Climate & Hygiene

Altitude & Motion Sickness

Altitude Sensitivity

  • If sensitive to altitude (e.g., Untersberg cable car), consider remedies.
  • Staying hydrated is an important general measure.

Motion Sickness

  • If prone to motion sickness, bring tablets for bus tours or mountain drives.
  • Ginger-based remedies are often present for mild cases.
  • Looking at the horizon may lessen symptoms during movement.

Activity-Specific Equipment

Hiking Essentials

A Small daypack (20-30 liters) is useful for day hikes. Hiking poles offer stability. A physical map or GPS app with offline maps is helpful.

  • Hiking pants or shorts.
  • Moisture-wicking fabrics.
  • Layered tops.
  • Sturdy, comfortable shoes.

Winter Sports Gear

Waterproof and insulated Ski jacket and Ski pants are essential. Thermal base layers and a mid-layer fleece add warmth. Goggles, a Helmet, and warm, waterproof Gloves are needed.

  • Ski/Snowboard equipment: Often better to rent locally.
  • Book rentals in advance during peak season.
  • Bringing own gear makes sense for serious enthusiasts.
  • Quality thermal layers are useful even if renting.

Swimming & Photography

For summer visits, pack a Swimsuit for hotel pools or nearby lakes. A Quick-drying travel towel is convenient. For photography beyond basics, extra lenses are good.

Rent vs Buy Decision Matrix

When to Rent Equipment

  • Ski/Snowboard Equipment: More practical and cost-effective to rent at local resorts.
  • Bicycles: City bike sharing programs or private rental shops for casual city cycling.
  • Specialized Hiking Boots: Can be rented for serious alpine trekking if you prefer not to bring your own.
  • Car Rental: Useful for extensive travel outside Salzburg, not for city exploration.

When to Bring Equipment

  • Personal Hiking Boots: Many hikers prefer their own broken-in boots for comfort.
  • Specialized Ski/Snowboard Gear: For serious enthusiasts with specific preferences.
  • Any niche personal item: Items that may be difficult or expensive to purchase locally.
  • Camera equipment: Bringing your own lenses and accessories tailored to your photography.

Miscellaneous Must-Haves

Comfort & Convenience

A few extra items greatly heighten travel comfort, security, and convenience in Salzburg. Comfort items for transportation are distinguished.

Travel Comfort

Security & Reusable Items

Security items are important. A Money belt keeps valuables secure from pickpockets. An RFID-blocking wallet protects card data. Small Luggage locks are suitable for Backpacks or luggage.

Personal Safety

Destination-Specific & Niche Items

Comfortable Scarf

An extra layer, sun protection, or modesty cover for churches.

Dietary Snacks

Bring a supply if you have allergies or strict dietary needs.

Personal Care Products

Pack enough if specific brands are not widely available.

Basic OTC Meds

Your preferred brands save time and ensure familiarity.

Packing Pro Tips

Preparation Before Departure

  • Charge all your devices before leaving.
  • Download any offline maps or apps while internet connection is strong.
  • A small, Lightweight daypack is ideal for daily essentials.

General Advice

  • Consider weather conditions and planned activities for packing.
  • Lay out everything you plan to pack to visualize space.
  • Check airline luggage restrictions for weight and size.

Packing Smart

Bring versatile items.

Consider multi-use clothing and accessories to save space.