MileHacker Logo
What to Pack & Bring

What to Pack & Bring

North Rhine Westphalia, Germany

Spring & Autumn Layers

Layers come recommended for these seasons. Temperatures fluctuate throughout the day, making adaptable clothing sensible. Mornings can start cool, with afternoons warming up, only to cool again after sunset. A waterproof outer layer protects against unexpected rain showers.

Spring/Autumn Attire

Summer & Winter Wear

Be ready for diverse temperatures throughout the year.

Summer/Winter Attire

Footwear Recommendations

Walking Shoes

Comfortable walking shoes are absolutely necessary. Much of Aachen’s city center receives best exploration on foot. This includes cobbled streets in the old town.

Essential for City Exploration

Waterproof Shoes

Highly recommended for spring, autumn, and winter. They deal with rain or damp conditions. A sudden downpour can quickly dampen your day without proper footwear.

Stay Dry

Dressier Shoes

Pack these if you plan evenings out at nicer restaurants or events. Sandals are suitable for summer, but ensure they remain comfortable for walking.

Evening Ready

Essential Documents

Document Checklist

Having your documents organized prevents issues. Keep them secure and accessible.

  • Passport and Visa Documentation: Carry your valid passport and visa if required. Keep photocopies and digital copies (stored securely in cloud storage or email) of your passport's main page and visa. Keep these separate from your physical passport.
  • Travel Insurance Policy Information: Bring a printout and digital copy of your travel insurance policy. Include emergency contact numbers and policy details.
  • International Driving Permit (if applicable): If planning to rent a car, an International Driving Permit (IDP) comes recommended with your valid home country driver's license for non-EU citizens.
  • Vaccination Records and Health Documentation: While typically not checked at entry, a copy of your vaccination record and any important medical information (e.g., conditions, allergies) can prove useful for personal health emergencies.
  • Printed and Digital Copies of Reservations: Confirmation emails or printouts for flights, accommodation, car rentals, and any pre-booked tours or train tickets.
  • Emergency Contact Information: Prepare a list of emergency contacts (family, friends, bank, travel insurance). Keep this on your phone and as a physical copy. Include contact details for your country's embassy or consulate in Germany.
  • Student/Senior/Press IDs for Discounts (if applicable): Bring an International Student Identity Card (ISIC) for student discounts. Any senior citizen identification might yield potential senior discounts. Press credentials are useful if traveling for journalistic purposes.
  • General Tip: Always carry a copy of your passport and travel insurance policy separate from the originals. A digital copy on your phone or in cloud storage provides another layer of security.

Technology & Electronics

Power & Connectivity

Stay connected and powered up. Germany uses specific plugs and voltage.

Tech Essentials

  • You need a Type F (Schuko) or Type C Plug adapter. Germany uses a voltage of 230V and a frequency of 50Hz. A Universal travel adapter with surge protection comes highly recommended.
  • Most modern smartphones work. Consider purchasing a local prepaid SIM card from providers like Telekom, Vodafone, or O2 upon arrival, or explore eSIM options like Airalo. Check roaming plans with your home provider.
  • Pack your preferred camera (DSLR, mirrorless, compact, or Smartphone). Bring extra batteries and memory cards. A Lightweight tripod helps for stable shots. For gear, B&H Photo has options.

Portable Power & Apps

Keep your devices charged and navigate with ease. Backup solutions for important data are also .

Convenience Apps

  • A High-capacity power bank is invaluable. It keeps your phone and other USB-powered devices charged while you sightsee all day. Explore options at Amazon.
  • Navigation: Google Maps, Apple Maps. Download offline maps for areas you plan to visit. Public Transport: DB Navigator (for trains), Moovit (for local buses), mobil.nrw (for regional transport).
  • Translation: Google Translate offers a helpful offline download feature. Communication/Ride-sharing: WhatsApp receives wide use in Germany. Free Now is useful for licensed taxis.

Data Backup & Security

Cloud Storage

Use services like Google Drive, Dropbox, or iCloud for backing up photos and important documents. This protects your memories and information.

VPN Services

For secure internet access, especially on public Wi-Fi, consider a VPN. NordVPN and ExpressVPN are popular choices.

Physical Backups

Consider carrying a small USB drive with copies of essential documents (scanned passport, visa, insurance). This provides an offline backup.

Health & Wellness Items

Personal Health Kit

Prepare a small kit for common ailments. This helps you manage minor issues and enjoy your trip.

First Aid Contents

  • Include basic items in your First aid kit: Band-aids, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers (e.g., Ibuprofen, paracetamol), Anti-diarrhea medication, antihistamines, and Hydrocortisone cream for insect bites or rashes.
  • Bring an adequate supply of all prescription medications. Carry a copy of your prescription or a doctor's note, especially for controlled substances. Keep medications in their original packaging.
  • Pack cold and flu remedies, indigestion tablets, and Motion sickness medication if you are prone to it on buses or trains.

Prevention & Hygiene

Maintain well-being during your travels. Consider personal hygiene essentials.

Wellness Tips

  • Insect Repellent & Sun Protection: Not a major concern in Aachen city, but Insect repellent is useful for evenings outdoors in summer. For sun protection, Sunscreen (SPF 30+), Sunglasses, and a Wide-brimmed hat are recommended.
  • Water Purification: Not necessary. Tap water in Aachen is safe and potable. Carry a Reusable water bottle.
  • Personal Hygiene Essentials: Most common toiletries are available in Germany. Bring travel-sized amounts of any specific brands or products you cannot live without.

Altitude & Motion Sickness

Altitude

  • Aachen does not sit at high altitude, so altitude sickness is not a concern.
  • The city's elevation is relatively low.
  • Visitors will not face any issues related to high altitudes.

Motion Sickness

  • Motion sickness remedies might prove useful for bus trips through winding roads if you are prone to it.
  • Some regional routes might have curves.
  • Consider medication if you commonly experience travel sickness.

Activity-Specific Equipment

Hiking Gear

Plan serious hikes in the Eifel? Pack proper Hiking boots and Trekking poles.

  • Sturdy hiking boots
  • Optional trekking poles
  • Moisture-wicking shirts
  • Comfortable trousers

Thermal Baths Attire

A Swimsuit is mandatory. A swimming cap is not generally required but can prove useful for long hair.

  • Swimsuit
  • Optional swimming cap
  • Towel (can be rented at Carolus Thermen)
  • Personal toiletries

Cycling Essentials

Bicycles are easily found via bike-sharing programs or rental shops. Comfortable hiking shoes are good for varied terrain.

  • Bike rental (local)
  • Helmet (recommended)
  • Comfortable clothing
  • Small backpack

Rent vs. Bring Decision

Rent Options

  • Bicycles: Easily found via bike-sharing programs or rental shops.
  • Towels: Available at thermal baths for a fee.
  • Umbrella: Can be purchased locally if forgotten.
  • Basic toiletries: Readily available at supermarkets/pharmacies.

Bring Options

  • Hiking Shoes: Your own comfortable, well-fitting hiking shoes are recommended for extensive walks.
  • Specialized Medications: Any unique prescription or over-the-counter medications.
  • Favorite personal hygiene items: Specific brands you cannot live without.
  • Special dietary supplements/snacks: If you have unique dietary needs.

Miscellaneous Must-Haves

Travel Comfort & Security

These items often improve travel comfort and security.

Comfort & Security Essentials

Sustainable Travel Items

Contribute to responsible tourism with these eco-friendly choices.

Eco-Friendly Packing

  • Reusable Water Bottle: Fill with tap water to reduce plastic waste.
  • Reusable Shopping Bag: For markets and shopping, as plastic bags are often charged.
  • Reusable Cutlery Set: For picnics or street food.
  • Rechargeable Batteries: For any electronics that need them, minimizing waste.

Destination-Specific Items

Souvenir Bag

For Aachener Printen!

Guidebook

For insights.

Binoculars

For Cathedral details.

Phrasebook

Basic German phrases.

Cultural Immersion & Practicality

Cultural Considerations

  • Modesty: When visiting churches or Aachen Cathedral, modest attire (covering shoulders and knees) receives appreciation.
  • Formal Events: Attending a concert at Theater Aachen or a fine dining restaurant may call for smart casual or semi-formal attire. Check venue dress code.
  • Tipping: Not mandatory but customary for good service (5-10% in restaurants).

Practical Additions

  • Physical Map: A backup for digital navigation.
  • Journal and Pen: For jotting down memories or important notes.
  • Multi-port USB Charger: To charge several devices from one outlet.

Packing Pro Tips

Roll your clothes tightly when packing. This saves space and helps reduce wrinkles.

Pack heavier items at the bottom of your luggage for better weight distribution and stability.