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Packing Smart

Packing Smart

Northern Greece, Greece

Summer & Shoulder Season Attire

For summer (June-August), pack lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton and linen. Shorts, t-shirts, light dresses, and skirts are suitable for daytime. A Swimsuit suits beach visits to Halkidiki. A light cardigan or Scarf is useful for evenings. Sun protection clothing is also a consideration. For spring (April-May) & autumn (September-October), layers work well.

Layering Essentials

  • T-shirts and Long-sleeved shirts.
  • Light sweaters, jeans or trousers.
  • Light to medium-weight jacket, preferably waterproof.

Winter & Cultural Attire

For winter (November-March), pack warm clothing. A warm coat, sweaters, long-sleeved tops, and sturdy trousers are necessary. A Waterproof jacket and an Umbrella are important for rain. Include a scarf, hat, and Gloves for colder days. Thermal layers may be useful for very cold spells.

Modesty for Religious Sites

  • When visiting churches and monasteries, men and women should dress modestly.
  • Shoulders and knees must remain covered.
  • Carrying a Light scarf or sarong helps for spontaneous visits.

Footwear Recommendations

Comfortable Walking Shoes

Thessaloniki features many cobblestone streets and historical sites. Comfortable, Supportive walking shoes are necessary. Consider Skechers Go Walk Joy Sneaker. You will walk a lot.

Ideal for city exploration.

Sandals & Flip-flops

Sandals or flip-flops are ideal for summer, especially for beach trips.

Good for warm weather and beach.

Dressier Shoes

Pack a pair for evenings out, if you plan to visit nicer restaurants or bars.

For smarter evening occasions.

Essential Documents

Travel Papers

Hold both physical and digital copies of all essential documents. This protects you if your originals are lost or stolen.

  • Passport & Visa Documentation: Carry valid passport (and visa if necessary). Photocopies and digital copies are wise.
  • Travel Insurance Policy: Printed copy of policy details and emergency contacts.
  • International Driving Permit (IDP): If renting a car and not from an EU country. Carry with home license.
  • Vaccination Records & Health Docs: For general health info and prescriptions (with doctor's letter).
  • Reservations: Printed and digital copies for flights, hotels, car rental, tours.
  • Emergency Contacts: List of family/friends back home, embassy/consulate info.
  • Student/Senior/Press IDs: For potential discounts at museums and attractions.
  • Digital Copies: Store on cloud storage or email to yourself.

Technology & Electronics

Power & Connectivity

Greece uses 230V, 50Hz. Plug Types C, E, and F are standard. A Universal travel adapter is necessary for non-European devices. Check if your devices are dual voltage (100-240V) to avoid needing a Voltage converter. Most modern phone chargers and laptop power supplies are dual voltage.

Mobile & SIM Cards

  • Most modern smartphones are globally compatible (GSM).
  • Local SIM cards present affordable data and calls (Cosmote, Vodafone, Nova). Passport needed for registration.
  • Ensure your phone is unlocked before travel to use a local SIM. Consider an ESIM from Airalo.

Gadgets & Apps

A versatile camera, like the Sony Alpha a6100, works well for cityscapes and historical sites. A Portable tripod is useful for low-light shots. A Portable charger, like the Anker PowerCore 20100, keeps devices charged. For VPN services, NordVPN or ExpressVPN are options.

Recommended Apps

  • Google Maps for navigation (download offline maps).
  • Google Translate (with offline Greek language pack).
  • FREENOW for taxi-hailing.

Data Backup & Security

Cloud Storage

Use Google Drive, Dropbox, or iCloud for photos and copies of important documents.

Physical Backup

A Portable hard drive or USB stick presents additional photo backup.

Device Security

Keep devices secure. Enable passcode and remote wipe features. Consider screen protectors for phones.

Health & Wellness Items

Personal First-Aid Kit

A small Personal first-aid kit and necessary medications are wise additions. Pharmacies are available, but immediate access saves time.

Kit Contents

Medications & Protection

Carry all prescription medications in their original labeled containers. A copy of your prescription or a letter from your doctor details the medication and dosage, especially for controlled substances. Bring enough medication for your entire trip, plus a few extra days. Keep them in your carry-on luggage.

Seasonal Protection

Special Health Concerns

Altitude Sickness

  • Thessaloniki itself stands at sea level.
  • Altitude sickness is not a concern within the city.
  • Relevant only if planning high-altitude hikes outside the city.

Motion Sickness

Activity-Specific Equipment

Hiking Gear

Pack gear relevant to your planned adventures. This avoids needing to purchase or rent items upon arrival. For hiking, Adventure Medical Kits are excellent.

Photography Essentials

Capture your memories with the right equipment. B&H Photo presents options for camera gear.

Beach & Water Gear

If visiting beaches, these items make your trip more enjoyable.

Rent vs. Bring Decisions

Items to Rent Locally

  • Car/Scooter: Generally better to rent locally due to convenience and transport cost.
  • Bicycles: Available for rent, especially along the waterfront.
  • Snorkeling Gear: Rent at some Halkidiki beaches, though your own Compact set presents comfort.
  • Heavy Gear: Avoid packing overly bulky or heavy items for a general trip.

Items to Bring Consider

  • Specialized Tech: Specific camera lenses or unique electronic gadgets.
  • Personal Medications: Prescriptions or specific OTC items.
  • Favorite Toiletries: Preferred brands for sensitive skin or specific needs.
  • Quality Insect Repellent: Can be expensive or less effective locally.

Miscellaneous Must-Haves

Comfort & Security

These items improve comfort, security, and convenience during your travels. For long flights or bus journeys, a Neck pillow, Eye mask, and Earplugs promote restful travel. Pacsafe provides anti-theft bags.

Security Items

Reusable Items

Bring these items to minimize waste and maximize convenience. Most common personal hygiene items are readily available in supermarkets and pharmacies. Bring your preferred brands of specialized items (e.g., specific hair products, contact lens solution, particular skincare) if you have sensitive skin or specific needs. Travel sizes work well.

Eco-Friendly Packing

Sustainable Travel Items

Reusable Water Bottle

Fill up from safe tap water.

Reusable Shopping Bag

For markets and groceries.

Solid Toiletries

Reduce plastic bottle waste.

Minimizing Waste

Choose eco-friendly options.

Destination-Specific Items

For Urban Exploration

  • A good guidebook for historical context.
  • Physical map in addition to digital.
  • Comfortable shoes for extensive walking.

For Cultural Immersion

  • Basic Greek phrasebook or app.
  • Camera for capturing Byzantine art.
  • An open mind for new culinary experiences.

Packing Pro Tips

Remember to pack light. You can always purchase most items in Thessaloniki if you forget something.

Roll clothes to save space. Use packing cubes for organization. Weigh your luggage before departure.