What to Pack & Bring: Basque Country

Seasonal Clothing

Layering helps with variable weather. A Waterproof jacket is always useful. A small umbrella is also a good idea. Casual clothing is appropriate for sightseeing.

Spring/Autumn

Light sweaters, long-sleeved shirts, jeans, comfortable trousers.
Medium-weight jacket or warm cardigan for cooler mornings and evenings.
A Small umbrella for unexpected rain.

Summer & Winter Attire

Pack according to specific season needs. Even in summer, evenings can be cool. Winter requires warm, protective layers.

Summer / Winter

Summer: T-shirts, light long-sleeved shirts, shorts or light trousers, swimwear.
Winter: Wool sweaters, thermal underwear, heavy waterproof/windproof coat, scarf, hat, gloves.
Modest attire (shoulders/knees covered) for religious sites, though not strictly enforced.

Footwear Recommendations

City Exploration

Comfortable, broken-in walking shoes are essential for cobbled streets and hilly terrain. Consider a pair like Brooks Ghost 15.

Many miles of walking await.

Hiking Trails

If planning trails, Sturdy hiking boots with good ankle support are recommended.

Secure footing for varied paths.

Beach & Casual

Sandals or flip-flops are suitable for beach areas.

Easy wear for coastal relaxation.

Essential Documents

Documentation

Carry essential documents for a smooth trip. Keep digital and printed copies of all important papers.

Passport and visa documentation: Carry your original passport, valid for 3 months beyond departure.
Travel insurance policy information: Digital and printed copies of your policy, with emergency contacts.
International driving permit (if applicable) for non-EU citizens renting cars.
Vaccination records and health documentation: Useful for emergencies.

Printed and digital copies of reservations: Flights, accommodation, tours, car rentals.
Emergency contact information: List of family, embassy, insurance, bank contacts, separate from your phone.
Student/senior/press IDs for discounts (if applicable): ISIC can offer museum discounts.
Store digital copies on your phone and in a cloud service.

Technology & Electronics

Power & Connectivity

Stay connected and powered up with the right gear. Spain uses Type F (Schuko) or Type C outlets at 230V, 50Hz.

Electrical Needs

A Power adapter or Universal travel adapter with USB ports is highly recommended. Find one like this: TESSAN Universal Travel Adapter.
Most modern smartphones are compatible. Consider a local SIM card (Vodafone, Orange, Movistar) or eSIM for cost-effective data.
A Portable charger or power bank is useful for long sightseeing days. Anker PowerCore is a reliable brand.

Photography & Apps

Capture your journey and navigate with ease using recommended photography gear and mobile applications.

Digital Tools

A quality camera (mirrorless or DSLR) captures diverse landscapes. Bring extra memory cards and batteries.
Recommended apps: Google Maps (offline maps), Google Translate (offline packs), Renfe (train tickets), local public transport apps, TheFork (reservations).
Backup solutions: Use cloud storage (Google Drive, Dropbox) for photos and digital document copies.

Online Security

VPN Services

Consider a VPN for secure browsing on public Wi-Fi. NordVPN and ExpressVPN are popular choices.

ESIMs

For connectivity without physical SIMs, consider Airalo if your phone supports eSIMs.

Electronics Retailers

For camera and electronics purchases, B&H Photo can provide gear before you leave.

Health & Wellness Items

First Aid & Medications

Prepare for common health needs and personal comfort. A basic first aid kit is always a good idea.

Basic Medical Kit

Band-aids, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers (Ibuprofen/paracetamol), anti-diarrhea medication.
Prescription medications in original packaging with a doctor's note for controlled substances.
Over-the-counter medications for common issues: cold/flu, antacids, motion sickness tablets.

Outdoor Health

Protect yourself from sun and insects, especially during outdoor activities. Ensure hydration with safe water sources.

Sun & Hydration

Insect repellent (less critical in cities, but useful in rural areas).
High SPF sunscreen, Sunglasses, and a hat.
LifeStraw Personal Water Filter for extensive backcountry hiking, though tap water is safe generally.

Travel Wellness

Altitude Concerns

Altitude sickness is not a significant concern for most visitors as elevations are generally moderate.
A comprehensive Travel first aid kit, such as Johnson & Johnson Travel First Aid, covers common minor ailments.

Motion Sickness

Motion sickness remedies might be useful for winding mountain roads or boat trips.
Natural remedies like ginger or over-the-counter medications are options.
Focus on the horizon or get fresh air if feeling unwell during journeys.

Activity-Specific Equipment

Hiking Essentials

For planned hikes, appropriate footwear and gear are .

Proper hiking boots or sturdy walking shoes.
Trekking poles (optional, can be rented locally).
A Small daypack for water, snacks, and layers.
Moisture-wicking tops; avoid cotton for intense hikes.

Surfing Gear

The Basque coast is a popular surfing destination. Gear can be rented.

A Wetsuit (water can be cool even in summer).
Surf wax.
Surfboards can be rented widely at local surf shops.
Beach towel and swimwear.

Cycling Equipment

Explore cities and coastal paths by bicycle.

Bicycles are widely available for rent in major cities and tourist areas.
Helmets are recommended for safety.
Comfortable clothing suitable for cycling.
A small backpack for personal items.

Gear Acquisition

Benefits of Renting

Cost-effective for single-use or specialized gear (e.g., surfboards).
Reduces luggage weight and travel hassle.
Access to well-maintained, appropriate local equipment.
Environmentally conscious choice.

Benefits of Bringing

Familiarity and comfort with your own gear.
Cost savings for frequently used items over many trips.
Guaranteed quality and fit for personal items.
Essential for niche medications or specific brands of toiletries.

Miscellaneous Must-Haves

Comfort & Security

These items contribute to your comfort, security, and convenience throughout your journey.

Travel Essentials

Travel pillow, Eye mask, and Earplugs for flights or noisy accommodations. A Trtl Pillow is a good choice.
An RFID-blocking wallet for credit cards and passport.
A small Padlock for hostel lockers. Travelambo offers a good wallet option: Travelambo Wallet.
A sturdy umbrella or Lightweight rain jacket is useful even in summer.

Reusable & Specialty Items

Contribute to sustainable travel and ensure you have all unique items you might need.

Sustainable Travel & Personal Needs

A Reusable water bottle. A Hydro Flask bottle is durable.
A Reusable shopping bag, such as a Baggu bag.
A Travel cutlery set.
Niche medications or very specific brands of toiletries may be harder to find locally.

Packing Gear Comparison

Backpack

Osprey Farpoint 40 provides comfort, organization, and durability for travel.

Rain Jacket

Columbia Watertight II offers waterproofing and breathability.

Walking Shoes

Brooks Ghost 15 provides comfort and grip for long walks.

Power Adapter

TESSAN Universal Travel Adapter for compatibility and multiple USB ports.

Other Useful Items

Power and Chargers

Anker PowerCore 20000 provides capacity and charging speed.
Consider a specific Camera equipment if photography is a focus.
A Smartphone is sufficient for most daily photography.

Bags and Footwear

A durable Backpack or travel bag.
Comfortable Sneakers for everyday use.
Specialty Travel gear if you have specific needs.

Packing Pro Tips

Pack comfortable shoes. You will likely walk many miles exploring the cities and towns. Cobblestone streets can be hard on your feet.

A waterproof outer layer is highly recommended for all seasons.

What to Pack & Bring