MileHacker Logo
What to Pack & Bring

What to Pack & Bring

Southeast England, England

Season-Specific Clothing

Layering proves useful due to the variable weather. A waterproof outer layer remains an item for any time of year. Summer (June-Aug): lightweight trousers/shorts, t-shirts, light sweaters. Shoulder Seasons (Apr-May, Sep-Oct): long-sleeved tops, sweaters, medium-weight jackets.

Winter & General Principle

Cultural & Activity Attire

Dover holds no specific modesty requirements for general tourism. Comfortable and practical clothing generally suit most situations. When visiting churches or other religious sites, dressing respectfully shows good manners. This might mean covering shoulders and knees. Strict dress codes are uncommon.

Activity-Specific Attire

  • Hiking/Walking: Sturdy, Comfortable walking shoes or boots are helpful. Wear moisture-wicking Socks. Layers are useful.
  • Religious Site Visits: Dressing modestly is polite, like covering shoulders and knees.
  • Formal Events/Fine Dining: Smart casual attire generally suits nicer restaurants (trousers/skirt, collared shirt/blouse, neat shoes).

Footwear Recommendations

General Sightseeing

Comfortable walking shoes or trainers are required for navigating the town and general sightseeing.

Urban & Town Exploration

Hiking the White Cliffs

For hiking, especially along the White Cliffs, Waterproof hiking boots are highly recommended. Paths can be muddy and slippery after rain.

Trails & Uneven Terrain

Occasional Upscale

If you plan to visit upscale restaurants or attend formal events, a smarter pair of shoes can be useful.

Dining & Events

Essential Documents

Critical Documents to Carry

Ensure you hold all required documents, with backups. A Travel document organiser helps keep everything in one place.

  • Passport & Visa Documentation: Carry originals; hold digital and physical copies separate from originals.
  • Travel Insurance Policy: Policy number, emergency contact, coverage summary (physical/digital copies).
  • International Driving Permit: If applicable (non-EU/EEA license and driving in UK).
  • Vaccination Records/Health Docs: Useful for medical emergencies.
  • Reservations: Printed and digital copies of accommodation, transport (ferry, train, bus), and tour bookings.
  • Emergency Contacts: Local emergency numbers (999, 111), embassy details, personal contacts (written down and in phone).
  • IDs for Discounts: Student/Senior/Press IDs for potential discounts at attractions/transport.
  • Passport-sized Photos: For visa applications or other purposes.

Technology & Electronics

Power & Connectivity

The UK uses Type G plug sockets (three rectangular pins). Standard voltage is 230V, frequency 50Hz. Most modern electronics are dual voltage. A Universal travel adapter with an UK plug is required for charging. Mobile phones operate on UK networks (GSM).

SIM Cards & Power Banks

  • SIM Card Options: Purchase a local SIM card (Vodafone, EE, O2, Three, Giffgaff) for cheaper data/calls, or use an eSIM (Airalo). Check roaming plans with home provider.
  • Portable Chargers: A High-capacity power bank ensures devices do not run out of power during long days.
  • Power Adapter: A universal adapter for UK Type G plug sockets is critical.

Apps & Camera Gear

Modern travel often relies on electronics. Pack the right gear to stay connected and powered up. Routinely back up your photos and other important data using cloud storage (Google Drive, Dropbox) or an External hard drive.

Recommended Apps & Camera Equipment

  • Camera Equipment: Pack your standard Travel camera, extra batteries, and memory cards. A Portable tripod helps with stable landscape shots. Check B&H Photo for gear.
  • Navigation Apps: Google Maps/Apple Maps, AllTrails for hiking.
  • Transport Apps: Stagecoach Bus app (real-time), National Rail Enquiries.
  • Translation & Ride-Sharing: Google Translate (offline download). Uber operates, but local taxi apps are often more reliable. Consider NordVPN or ExpressVPN for secure browsing.

Data Backup & Security

Cloud Storage

Regularly back up photos and data to services like Google Drive or Dropbox.

External Hard Drive

Carry an External hard drive as a physical backup for important data.

Device Security

Protect your devices with strong passwords and consider a VPN (Virtual Private Network) for public Wi-Fi.

Health & Wellness Items

Personal Health Kit

Prepare a personal health kit to manage minor ailments or specific medical needs during your trip. Most common toiletries are readily available in UK supermarkets and pharmacies.

Essential Kit Contents

  • First Aid Kit: Standard items like plasters (Band-aids), antiseptic wipes, pain relievers (paracetamol/Ibuprofen), Anti-diarrhea medication, allergy medication. For coastal walks, blister plasters and strapping tape.
  • Prescription Medications: Pack in original packaging with a copy of your prescription or doctor's note.
  • Over-the-Counter Meds: Remedies for cold/flu, indigestion, motion sickness tablets (especially for ferry journeys).

Protection from Elements

Ensure your routine vaccinations are current. These include Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR), Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis, Polio, Chickenpox, and your annual Flu shot. Consult your doctor or a travel clinic before your trip for individual health needs.

Sun & Insect Protection

Special Health Considerations

Altitude Sickness

  • Not a concern: Dover is at sea level, so altitude sickness is not relevant.
  • Focus on other health factors: Direct altitude effects are not a factor in Dover.
  • Enjoy your low-altitude travels without this worry.

Motion Sickness

  • Ferry Travel: If prone to seasickness, bring motion sickness tablets. The English Channel can experience choppy waters.
  • Bus/Car Travel: Winding rural roads may affect some individuals.
  • Preparation: Over-the-counter remedies are available in UK pharmacies.

Activity-Specific Equipment

Hiking Gear

For walks along the White Cliffs and other trails.

Photography Equipment

Capture Dover's dramatic landscapes and historical sites.

  • Your preferred Travel camera.
  • Extra camera batteries.
  • Sufficient memory cards.
  • A Portable tripod for stable shots of the White Cliffs (especially in low light).

Cycling Gear

For exploring Dover and surrounding areas by bicycle.

  • Bicycle rental available locally for extensive cycling.
  • Helmet (recommended for safety).
  • High-visibility clothing.
  • No specific "unique to Dover" items.

Rent vs. Bring Decision Matrix

Consider Renting

  • Bicycles: Rent locally if you plan extensive cycling; saves hassle of transport.
  • Car Rental: Great for freedom and wider Kent exploration. Available from major companies in Dover/nearby towns.
  • Specialty Items: For very niche or heavy equipment, rental may be better.
  • Short-Term Needs: Rent for items you only use for a day or two.

Consider Bringing

  • Personal Gear: Items like Travel gear (daypack, trekking poles) you use often and trust.
  • Electronics: Your personal phone, camera, and chargers are best brought.
  • Prescription Meds: Always bring these; difficult to replace abroad.
  • Comfort Items: Neck pillows, eye masks, and earplugs for travel comfort.

Miscellaneous Must-Haves

Comfort & Security

These additional items can enhance your comfort and security while traveling. Most common items are widely available in the UK.

Travel Essentials

Reusable & Dover-Specific Items

These items help with sustainability and make your Dover experience more comfortable. Warm layers, waterproof clothing, and sturdy walking shoes are paramount.

Environmentally Friendly & Local Needs

  • Reusable Water Bottle: For refilling from safe tap water, reducing plastic waste.
  • Reusable Shopping Bag: Avoid plastic bag charges in shops.
  • Reusable Coffee Cup: For hot drinks, cutting down on disposable cups.
  • Region-Specific: Warm layers, waterproof clothing, and Sturdy walking shoes for the coastal and historical nature of Dover.

Sustainable Travel Items

Reusable Water Bottle

Reduce plastic waste, refill from taps.

Reusable Shopping Bag

Avoid plastic bag charges.

Portable Charger

Keep devices charged on the go.

Comfortable Walking Shoes

Walk more, use less transport.

Dover-Specific Packing Considerations

Coastal & Weather Essentials

  • Windproof Jacket: Essential due to strong coastal winds.
  • Waterproof Outerwear: For unexpected rain showers at any time of year.
  • Sun Protection: Even on cloudy days, UV exposure exists, especially on the White Cliffs.

Activity-Focused Items

  • Sturdy Footwear: Waterproof hiking boots are ideal for cliff walks.
  • Binoculars: For birdwatching or viewing France from the cliffs.
  • Camera with Extra Battery: Capture the dramatic scenery.

Packing Pro Tips

Roll your clothes to maximize space and reduce wrinkles. Use packing cubes to organize items and compress clothing, making it easier to find what you need.

Place heavier items at the bottom of your bag near the wheels to distribute weight evenly. Wear your heaviest shoes and coat on travel days to save luggage space and weight.