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What to Pack & Bring

What to Pack & Bring

Lanzarote, Canary Islands

Clothing Guide

Pack light fabrics like cotton, linen, and blends for daytime warmth. T-shirts, shorts, summer dresses, and light trousers are suitable.

Evening Wear & Layering

  • Evenings: A light sweater, cardigan, or thin jacket is advisable for comfort as temperatures may drop.
  • Winter (Dec-Feb): A warmer jacket or thicker fleece for evenings, especially for outdoor dining.
  • Layering: This approach supports adaptation to temperature changes or when exploring different island elevations.

Activity Specific Attire

Lanzarote is a relaxed tourist destination. Casual beachwear is acceptable on beaches and around resorts. Smart casual attire suits towns, restaurants, or cultural sites.

Special Activities

  • Hiking: Comfortable, sturdy Hiking shoes with ankle support are suggested for volcanic rock.
  • Swimming: Multiple Swimsuits, a cover-up, and a Quick-drying beach towel.
  • Religious Sites: Respectful attire (shoulders/knees covered) is advisable if attending a service.

Footwear Essentials

General Walking

Comfortable Sandals, Sneakers, or Walking shoes are ideal for everyday wear and strolling the promenade.

Prioritize comfort for extensive walking.

Beach / Pool

Flip-flops or Water shoes are suitable for poolside and short walks on the sand. Water shoes are useful for rocky beaches.

Protects feet on varied coastal terrain.

Volcanic Areas / Hiking

Closed-toe shoes with good grip are necessary due to uneven volcanic terrain. Do not attempt hikes in open-toed sandals.

Essential for safety and comfort on trails.

Essential Documents

Important Papers

Keep these documents secure and easily accessible, both in physical and digital formats.

  • Passport and visa documentation (if applicable).
  • Travel insurance policy information, including emergency contacts.
  • International driving permit (if planning to drive).
  • European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) / Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC).
  • Copies of flight, accommodation, and tour reservations.
  • Emergency contact information (next of kin, bank, credit card companies).
  • Photocopies/digital copies of all important documents, stored separately.
  • Student/senior/press IDs for potential discounts.

Technology & Electronics

Power & Connectivity

Prepare your devices for international use. Spain uses Type C and F electrical outlets (two round pins). The voltage is 230V at 50Hz.

Device Prep

Camera & Apps

For capturing Lanzarote's unique volcanic landscapes and vibrant colors, a Wide-angle lens is quite useful. A Waterproof camera or Waterproof phone case suits water activities.

Recommended Apps & Backup

  • Google Maps (download offline maps).
  • Google Translate (download Spanish language pack).
  • VPNs such as NordVPN or ExpressVPN for secure Wi-Fi use.

Data Backup & Security

Cloud Storage

Use services like Google Drive or Dropbox for important data.

External Drives

Consider an External hard drive (E.g., SanDisk SSD) for photos.

WhatsApp & Local Weather

WhatsApp is common for communication. Local weather apps are also useful.

Health & Wellness Items

Personal Health Kit

A well-stocked personal health kit addresses minor ailments and maintains comfort.

Kit Contents

  • A basic First aid kit with Band-Aids, antiseptic wipes, and pain relievers (Ibuprofen).
  • Prescription medications in original packaging, with a copy of your prescription and doctor's note.
  • Over-the-counter medications for common issues like colds, indigestion, or Motion sickness.

Sun & Insect Protection

Lanzarote's high UV index calls for constant protection. Insects are not a major issue, but preparation is still sensible.

Protection Essentials

Travel Comfort

Motion Sickness

  • If prone to seasickness on boat trips, pack appropriate medication.
  • Roads can be winding in volcanic areas; consider if you experience motion sickness in cars.
  • Over-the-counter remedies are generally available in pharmacies.

Water Quality

  • Tap water is generally safe to drink but is desalinated, often with a distinct taste.
  • Many visitors prefer bottled water for taste.
  • A Personal water filter bottle can improve taste and cut plastic waste.

Activity-Specific Equipment

Snorkeling / Diving

Bringing your own snorkel, mask, and fins (e.g., Cressi Palau Snorkel Set) offers comfort and hygiene for frequent use.

  • Numerous dive centers offer full equipment rentals.
  • Renting can be simpler for casual use.
  • Bringing your own saves cost for frequent activity.
  • Fit and quality are personalized with your own gear.

Hiking

A Small daypack (E.g., Osprey Daylite Plus) is useful for carrying water, snacks, and a Light jacket on day hikes.

  • Supports carrying hydration and essentials.
  • Allows for layering as temperatures change.
  • Frees hands for trail navigation.
  • Protects items from dust and elements.

Cycling

If you plan long rides, consider padded cycling shorts for comfort. Bicycles are readily available for rent from various shops.

  • Road bikes, mountain bikes, and e-bikes are rented.
  • Lanzarote is a popular cycling destination.
  • Varied terrain suits all skill levels.
  • Rentals offer convenience over bringing your own.

Rent vs. Bring Decision Matrix

Consider Bringing

  • Personal snorkeling gear for comfort and hygiene if frequent use is planned.
  • Your own cycling shoes and pedals if you have specific preferences.
  • Specialized diving computer or mask if accustomed to your own.
  • Children's specific safety seats or strollers if rental quality is a concern.

Consider Renting

  • Bicycles: Readily available and often simpler than transporting your own.
  • Diving equipment: Full sets are available from numerous dive centers.
  • Surfboards/Paddleboards: Local shops offer diverse options.
  • Kayaks: Often available for rent directly at beaches or water sports centers.

Miscellaneous Must-Haves

Comfort & Security

These items contribute to comfort, security, and convenience during your travels.

Enhance Your Journey

Eco-Friendly & Practical

Reduce your environmental footprint and enhance daily convenience with these items.

Sustainable & Handy

Region-Specific Essentials

High SPF Sunscreen

Important due to the strong sun. Bring ample supply.

Sturdy Shoes

Closed-toe footwear for volcanic terrain exploration.

Light Windbreaker

Helpful for breezy days and cooler evenings.

Specialty Toiletries

Pack specific brands or dietary supplements if needed.

Items for Convenience

Digital Essentials

  • Phone, tablet, or e-reader for entertainment.
  • Headphones for music or audiobooks.
  • A physical book or journal for downtime.

Practical Gear

  • A small, packable bag for day trips.
  • A small umbrella for rare, brief showers.
  • Extra pair of sunglasses, given the strong sun.

Packing Pro Tips

Roll your clothes to save space and minimize wrinkles. Use packing cubes to organize your belongings and separate different types of clothing or items.

Place heavier items at the bottom of your suitcase, closer to the wheels, to maintain balance and avoid wrinkling lighter garments. Wear your bulkiest shoes on the flight to save luggage space.