What to Pack for Brussels. Clothes, Accessories, Essentials

Spring April-May Attire

Layers are essential. Temperatures usually range from 8-16°C (46-61°F).

Packing List:

Light jacket or trench coat.
Sweaters or cardigans, and Long-sleeved shirts.
An Umbrella or Rain jacket for sudden showers.

Summer June-August Essentials

Light, breathable clothing works best. Temperatures average 14-23°C (57-73°F).

Clothing to Consider:

T-shirts, blouses, lightweight pants or shorts, and dresses.
A light jacket or cardigan for cooler evenings.
Comfortable walking shoes for touring the city.

Footwear Recommendations

Walking Shoes

Essential for navigating the city's streets and cobblestones. Prioritize support and cushioning.

Sneakers or sturdy walking boots.

Waterproof Footwear

Recommended during wetter seasons (autumn, winter, spring) to keep your feet dry.

Waterproof boots.

Dressier Shoes

Pack these if you plan to visit upscale restaurants or evening events. Casual wear is acceptable in most places.

For smarter occasions.

Essential Documents for Travel

Organize Your Documents

Organize your documents carefully. Keep originals secure and bring copies separately. This Planning reduces stress.

Passport and Visa Documentation: Bring originals, plus photocopies or digital copies stored separately.
Travel Insurance Policy: Keep policy number, emergency contacts, and what's covered (printed and digital).
International Driving Permit (IDP): If driving and your license is non-EU/EEA.
Health Documentation: Prescription medication list and doctor's note (if applicable).

Printed/Digital Reservations: Flights, accommodation, tours, car rental.
Emergency Contact Info: Family, embassy, travel insurance, bank details (for lost cards).
Student/Senior/Press IDs: For potential discounts (ISIC, EYC).
Carry prescription medications in original packaging.

Technology & Electronics

Power & Connectivity

Stay connected and powered up with the right electronic gear.

Adapter & SIM Card Info:

Voltage: Belgium requires 230V, 50Hz. Plug Type: A TWO-PIN plug with a ground and F. A Type E/F adapter is mandatory.
SIM Cards: Purchase local SIMs (Proximus, Orange, Base) at the airport or city stores. Passport/ID required for registration.
eSIM: Many Providers offer eSIM options for easier activation.

Devices & Apps

Maximize your travel experience with recommended tech accessories and applications.

Travel Tech:

Portable Chargers: Highly beneficial for long sightseeing days and navigation.
Camera Equipment: Standard photography gear. Check Retailers for particular items.
Backup Solutions: Use cloud storage (Google Drive, Dropbox) or an External hard drive.

Recommended Apps for Travel

Navigation

Google Maps, Citymapper (for public transport).

Translation

Google Translate, DeepL.

Local Services

STIB/MIVB app, Uber, Bolt, Deliveroo, Uber Eats.

Health & Wellness Items

First Aid & Medications

A small, well-stocked health kit ensures you handle minor ailments without searching for a pharmacy.

Kit Contents:

Standard First aid kit with Band-aids, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers (Ibuprofen).
Prescription Medications: Bring a sufficient supply in original packaging with a doctor's note.
Over-the-Counter: Antihistamines, antidiarrheals, cold/flu remedies.

Seasonal & Personal Care

Prepare for climate specifics and keep your personal essentials handy.

Climate & Hygiene:

Insect Repellent: Useful in summer near parks.
Sun Protection: Sunscreen, hat, Sunglasses in summer.
Personal Hygiene: Bring specific preferred brands; most common items are available locally.

Altitude & Motion Sickness

Altitude Sickness:

Not relevant for Brussels due to its low elevation.
No specific precautions needed for elevation.
Focus on alternative health preparations.

Motion Sickness:

Motion sickness remedies are beneficial if you experience travel sickness on buses or trains.
Pack your preferred brand of motion sickness tablets.

Activity-Specific Equipment

Photography Gear

Your camera for taking photos of the city's beauty is the most important "specialty" item.

Standard photography gear is suitable.
Be aware that tripods may be restricted in some museums.
A good lens for architecture and street photography.
Extra memory cards and batteries.

Outdoor Activities

Generally, no purpose-built kit is required for Brussels itself. However, for day trips:

If you plan day trips to the Ardennes for hiking or kayaking.
Appropriate outdoor clothing and footwear.
Consider a small daypack.
Waterproof outer layer for unexpected weather.

Rent vs. Bring

Most specialized equipment is available for rent locally.

Bicycles are easily rented in Brussels.
No other specialized gear is typically required for tourists.
Renting Cars for day trips from major companies is simple.
Consider renting instead of bringing bulky gear.

Rent vs. Buy Decision Matrix

Advantages of Renting:

Less luggage to transport, lighter packing.
Access to well-maintained, destination-appropriate gear.
Reduced cost for items used infrequently.
No worries about damage or loss of personal equipment.

Disadvantages of Renting:

Availability issues during peak seasons.
Cost can accumulate for long rental periods.
Quality of rental gear can vary.
Time spent on pickup and return procedures.

Miscellaneous Must-Haves

Comfort & Security

These items increase comfort, security, and convenience during your travels.

Travel Comforts:

Neck pillow, Eye mask: For long flights, train journeys, or public transport.
Small padlock: Useful for hostel lockers.
Money belt or RFID wallet: Secure valuables against pickpocketing.
Region-Specific: No unique region-specific essentials beyond general travel items.

Sustainable & Personal Items

Embrace sustainable travel practices and remember items difficult to find locally.

Eco-Friendly & Personal:

Reusable water bottle: Fill with safe tap water to stay hydrated and reduce plastic waste.
Reusable shopping bag: Useful for purchases, as plastic bags may incur a fee.
Reusable utensils: A compact set aids in reducing single-use plastic when enjoying street food.
Items Difficult to Find: Bring specific preferred brands or items you rely on that might not be widely available.

Sustainable Travel Items

Reusable Water Bottle

Stay hydrated, reduce plastic waste.

Reusable Shopping Bag

For purchases, avoid plastic bag fees.

Reusable Coffee Cup

For your daily dose of coffee.

Reusable Utensil Set

Enjoy street food sustainably.

Destination-Specific Items

Brussels General:

A good guidebook or reliable travel app.
Offline maps downloaded to your Smartphone.
Some small Euro denominations for markets or small purchases.

Optional Items:

(Not applicable) No snorkeling or similar activities.
(Not applicable) No camping equipment needed for getting around the city.
Binoculars for detailed architectural viewing (optional).

Packing Pro Tips:

Roll your clothes to save space and minimize wrinkles.

Pack an extra set of clothes in your carry-on in case of lost luggage.

What to Pack for Brussels