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What to Pack & Bring

What to Pack & Bring

Schleswig Holstein, Germany

Spring & Summer Attire

Spring (April-May) requires layers: a Light jacket, sweaters, long-sleeved shirts, and long pants. A Water-resistant jacket or umbrella is useful. Summer (June-August) suggests light, breathable cotton or linen clothing, with a light sweater for evenings. A Swimsuit is good for Travemünde.

Summer Essentials

  • T-shirts, shorts, skirts, dresses.
  • Light sweater or jacket for cooler evenings.
  • A compact umbrella for unexpected showers.

Autumn & Winter Attire

Autumn (September-October) calls for warmer clothing, similar to spring, with a medium-weight jacket, sweaters, and long pants. A waterproof outer layer remains important. Winter (November-March) needs your warmest clothing, including a Heavy winter coat and thermal layers.

Winter Necessities

  • Scarf, Gloves, and a Warm hat for cold weather.
  • Warm trousers or thermal layers.
  • Windproof outer layers for Baltic breezes.

Footwear Recommendations

Walking Shoes

Comfortable Walking shoes or Sneakers are a must. Lübeck's Old Town has many cobblestone streets and uneven surfaces.

Break them in before your trip to prevent blisters.

Summer Footwear

For warmer days, Sandals or breathable shoes are fine, but ensure they provide enough support for long walks.

Prioritize comfort and support for city exploration.

Winter Boots

For potential snow or ice, waterproof, insulated boots with good grip are beneficial.

Good traction is important on potentially slippery surfaces.

Essential Documents

Important Travel Papers

Always have both physical and digital copies.

  • Passport & Visa: Original passport and any required visa.
  • Travel Insurance: Policy information, including emergency contacts.
  • International Driving Permit: If planning to drive, along with your national license.
  • Health Documentation: Vaccination records and prescription medication lists.
  • Reservations: Printed and digital copies of flight, hotel, and tour confirmations.
  • Emergency Contacts: List of family, embassy, and bank numbers.
  • ID for Discounts: Student, senior, or press IDs for potential savings.
  • Digital Backups: Store copies in cloud storage or email.

Technology & Electronics

Power & Connectivity

Germany uses 230V at 50Hz, with Type F (Schuko) or Type C (Europlug) outlets. A Universal travel adapter with EU compatibility is needed. Most modern smartphones work in Germany; consider a local SIM card or an eSIM from Airalo for data.

Stay Connected

  • Power Adapter: Type F/C plug.
  • SIM Card: Local German SIM (Telekom, Vodafone, O2) or eSIM (e.g., Airalo).
  • Portable chargers and power banks: Essential for charging devices on the go.

Photography & Apps

A good Smartphone camera often works for casual photos. For enthusiasts, a mirrorless or DSLR camera with a versatile lens is ideal. Consider B&H Photo for gear. A Compact tripod for night shots. Cloud storage for backups.

Recommended Apps

  • Navigation: Google Maps or Apple Maps; DB Navigator for trains.
  • Translation: Google Translate or DeepL.
  • Public Transport: "Lübeck Mobil" app, Moovit, or Google Maps. WhatsApp for communication.

Data Backup & Security

Cloud Storage

Use services like Google Drive or Dropbox for photos and copies of important documents.

VPN Services

Consider a VPN for secure internet access, especially on public Wi-Fi. Check out NordVPN or ExpressVPN.

Device Security

Keep devices password-protected and use two-factor authentication where possible.

Health & Wellness Items

Personal First Aid Kit

Prepare a small kit to address common travel ailments. Include essentials for minor injuries and discomforts. For comprehensive kits, explore Adventure Medical Kits.

Kit Contents

Personal Care & Protection

Bring enough prescription medications with documentation. Pack over-the-counter remedies for common issues. While Lübeck's tap water is safe, a Reusable water bottle is good for the environment.

Protection Essentials

Special Health Concerns

Motion Sickness

  • If prone to motion sickness, pack appropriate medication for bus or boat rides.
  • Consider ginger chews or acupressure bands for ferry trips to Travemünde.
  • Always have any necessary personal medications on hand.

Altitude Sickness

  • Lübeck is at sea level, so altitude sickness is not a concern.
  • Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of tap water, which is safe.
  • Eat regular meals to maintain energy levels during active days.

Activity-Specific Equipment

Walking & Hiking

Lübeck is a city best explored on foot. For extensive walking or light hiking in surrounding areas, certain footwear is .

Cycling

Lübeck offers good cycling infrastructure. Renting a bike is often more practical than bringing your own.

  • Comfortable cycling clothes (if not renting).
  • Water bottle for hydration.
  • Helmet (recommended, not mandatory).
  • Small bike repair kit (if on long tours).

Swimming Travemünde

If visiting Lübeck's seaside district, Travemünde, during summer, swimming gear is necessary.

Rent vs. Bring Decision

Items to Rent Often Better

  • Bicycles: Easily rented in Lübeck; more convenient than bringing your own for a short trip.
  • Boats: River cruises are already provided by local operators.
  • Specialty Outdoor Gear: For specific activities (e.g., kayaking) rentals are available.
  • Child Strollers: Many travel-friendly rental services exist.

Items to Bring Generally Preferable

  • Personal Hiking Boots: Ensures comfort and fit for extensive walking.
  • Prescription Medications: Custom and essential for your health.
  • Specific Toiletries: If you have allergies or brand preferences.
  • Camera Gear: If you require specific photography equipment.

Miscellaneous Must-Haves

Travel Comfort & Security

Enhance your travel experience with these items for comfort during transit and to keep your valuables safe.

Essential Extras

Eco-Friendly & Local Items

Reduce your environmental impact and adapt to local customs with these reusable items. Lübeck generally has high accessibility standards.

Sustainable Choices

Sustainable Travel Items

Reusable Water Bottle

Fill up with safe tap water.

Reusable Shopping Bag

Avoid plastic bag fees.

Portable Utensil Set

Reduce single-use plastic waste.

Solar Charger

For eco-friendly device charging.

Destination-Specific Items

For City Exploration

  • A good camera for Lübeck's impressive historic architecture.
  • A physical map of the Old Town to complement digital navigation.
  • Comfortable walking shoes are paramount due to cobblestone streets.

For Coastal Visits Travemünde

  • Swimwear and a beach towel for sunny days at Travemünde.
  • A windbreaker for breezy coastal conditions.
  • Binoculars for bird watching or observing ships.

Packing Pro Tip:

Pack light for ease of movement, especially if navigating cobblestone streets. Utilize packing cubes for efficient organization.

Roll clothes to save space and minimize wrinkles.