MileHacker Logo
What to Pack for Hamburg

What to Pack for Hamburg

Hamburg Germany Travel Guide

Summer & Shoulder Season Attire

Pack light layers like t-shirts, shorts, and light trousers for summer. Bring a Light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings. Spring/Autumn calls for medium-weight sweaters and Long-sleeved shirts.

Essential Outerwear

  • A Rain jacket or Small umbrella is useful for pop-up showers.
  • A scarf adds warmth and style during the off-peak periods.
  • A waterproof outer layer is a must, as rain is common.

Winter & Cultural Considerations

Warm layers are needed for winter. Bring a heavy, Waterproof winter coat, sweaters, long-sleeved shirts, and thermal underwear. A hat, Gloves, and a Warm scarf are needed.

Dress Code & Activities

  • Modest attire appreciated when visiting churches, but casual wear is normally fine.
  • Comfortable walking shoes are required for urban discovery.
  • For Elbphilharmonie concerts or fine dining, smart relaxed to formal attire may be appropriate.

Footwear Recommendations

Walking Shoes

Comfortable, broken-in walking shoes are absolutely required for extensive city exploration on cobbled streets.

Good arch support helps.

Waterproof Footwear

Waterproof going on foot shoes are highly recommended due to the risk of rain in Hamburg.

Essential for rainy weather.

Winter Boots

If traveling in winter, Waterproof boots with good grip are useful for wet or icy pavements.

For cold and lacking grip conditions.

Essential Travel Documents

Organizing Your Important Papers

Keeping your papers in order and safe is a part of travel. Have both physical and digital copies.

  • Passport and Visa Papers (carry a passport that is not expired and getting a visa letter).
  • Travel Insurance Policy Information (printed and digital copies).
  • International Driving Permit (IDP) with original license (if renting a car).
  • Vaccination Records and Health Documentation (prescription copies, doctor's notes).
  • Printed and Digital Copies of Reservations (flights, accommodation, tours).
  • Emergency Contact Information (family, embassy, insurance).
  • Student/Senior/Press IDs for Discounts (ISIC, etc.).
  • Consider Pacsafe anti-theft solutions for important documents.

Your Tech & Connectivity

Power and Charging

Germany requires A TYPE f adapter (Schuko) or Type C plugs. The standard voltage is 230V at 50Hz. Bring a suitable Travel adapter. The majority of new electronics support dual voltage, but check your device chargers.

Charging Essentials

Connectivity & Apps

Most modern smartphones are compatible with Germany's GSM network. Consider purchasing a local SIM card or an ESIM upon arrival from providers like Telekom, Vodafone, O2, or ALDI TALK for affordable data and calls.

Recommended Tools

  • Ensure your phone is unlocked before you travel. Connect with A vpn like NordVPN or ExpressVPN for secure browsing.
  • HVV app for public transport; Google/Apple Maps for navigation.
  • DeepL/Google Translate for language assistance.

Data Backup & Security

Cloud Storage

Use cloud storage services (e.g., Google Photos, Dropbox) to back up photos and important documents. This protects your memories and information if devices are lost or stolen.

Device Security

Keep devices password-protected. Consider using "Find My Device" features. VPN services like NordVPN encrypt your internet connection.

Physical Security

Use Small travel locks for luggage and an RFID-blocking wallet for cards.

Health & Wellness Essentials

Personal First Aid & Meds

A small, personalized health kit provides peace of mind. Include basic items for minor ailments and any personal prescription medications.

Kit Contents

Sun & Insect Protection

In summer, sun protection items are useful. Insect repellent may be helpful in parks or near water during summer evenings.

Protection Items

Personal Hygiene Essentials

Daily Care Items

  • Toothbrush, toothpaste, floss.
  • Shampoo, conditioner, soap.
  • Hand sanitizer.

Specialty Items

  • Deodorant.
  • Moisturizer.
  • Any niche personal care items or preferred brands.

Activity-Specific Gear

General Tourism

Most general tourism in Hamburg does not require specialized gear.

  • Good walking shoes.
  • Weather-appropriate clothing layers.
  • A rain jacket.
  • Small daypack.

Water Activities

If you plan to kayak on the Alster or take boat tours, rentals are readily available.

  • Swimwear (for Alster swimming in summer).
  • Waterproof bag for essentials.
  • Sun hat.
  • Small towel.

Cycling

Bicycles are easily rented through services like StadtRAD Hamburg or private rental shops.

  • Comfortable attire for cycling.
  • Helmets are not mandatory but recommended.
  • Small backpack.
  • Water bottle.

Items to Rent vs. Bring

Consider Renting

  • Bicycles: Easily available via StadtRAD Hamburg or private shops.
  • Kayaks/Paddleboards: For Alster Lake activities.
  • Specialty cold weather gear: If not traveling frequently to chilly climates.
  • Car: If mostly staying in the city, public transport is usually sufficient.

Better to Bring

  • Prescription Medications: Always carry your own supply.
  • Comfortable Walking Shoes: Essential for city exploration.
  • Preferred Toiletries: Especially niche personal care products.
  • Travel Adapters/Power Banks: Your specific charging needs.

Miscellaneous Must-Haves

Comfort & Security

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

Travel Aids

Reusable & Region-Specific Items

Germany embraces environmental consciousness, so reusable items are a good choice. A good umbrella or rainproof jacket is always advisable.

Eco-Friendly & Practical

  • Reusable water bottle (for safe tap water).
  • Reusable shopping bag (to avoid plastic bag fees).
  • Perhaps Reusable utensils.
  • A good umbrella or impervious to water jacket for changeable weather.

Items Difficult to Purchase Locally or expensive

Niche Personal Care

If you have specific brands not widely available.

Specific Snacks

If you crave a certain snack from home.

Specialty Tech Gear

Camera gear, specific electronics from B&H Photo, or local SIM alternatives like Airalo.

Travel Document Holders

A protected journeys document organizer.

Language & Communication

Basic German Phrases

  • Learn "Bitte" (please) and "Danke" (thank you).
  • "Entschuldigung" (excuse me/sorry).
  • Local people appreciate the effort.

Translation Tools

  • Utilize translation apps like DeepL or Google Translate.
  • Some apps offer real-time translation features.
  • A small phrasebook can also be helpful.

Packing Pro Tips

Roll clothes to make more space and avoid wrinkles. Use packing cubes for better organization within your luggage.

Place heavier items at the bottom of your suitcase. Distribute weight evenly to ease carrying.