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What to Pack & Bring

What to Pack & Bring

Spain

Summer & Shoulder Season Attire

Summer (June-August): Pack lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton and linen. Think shorts, skirts, light dresses, and t-shirts. Swimwear is essential for coastal areas. Evenings can be cooler near the coast, so a light cardigan. Inland, evenings stay warm. Sun protection, including Wide-brimmed hats and Sunglasses, is a priority.

Spring & Autumn Layers

  • Layers are good for these shoulder seasons. Days are pleasant, but mornings and evenings cool.
  • Pack Long-sleeved shirts, light sweaters or cardigans, jeans or comfortable trousers.
  • A Waterproof light jacket or Umbrella may be useful for rain showers, especially in April and October.

Winter & Cultural Attire

Winter (December-February): Winters are mild but chilly. Pack jeans or trousers, long-sleeved shirts, and sweaters. A warm jacket is good for evenings and early mornings, or inland visits. A scarf and light Gloves add comfort.

Cultural & Activity-Specific

  • Cultural Dress: Spain is relaxed. For churches or religious sites, cover shoulders and knees. A Light scarf or shawl works well.
  • Hiking: Comfortable, breathable activewear. Wicking fabrics.
  • Swimming: Swimsuit and a cover-up.

Footwear Recommendations

General Sightseeing

Comfortable walking shoes or Sneakers are essential. Expect walking on paved streets, sometimes uneven cobblestones in historic centers. Well-cushioned travel sneakers perform well.

Ideal for city walks

Summer Footwear

Sandals or open-toed shoes suit warm weather. Ensure they are comfortable for walking. Flip-flops are practical for beach and pool areas.

Beach and warm weather friendly

Hiking & Trails

Sturdy Walking shoes or light hiking boots work for trails in natural parks like Sierra Espuña or Calblanque.

Trail-ready footwear

Essential Documents

Organized & Secure Documents

Keeping your documents organized and secure simplifies your travel. Having both physical and digital copies is a good practice.

  • Passport and visa documentation: Carry your original passport.
  • Travel insurance policy information: Printed and digital copies with emergency contacts.
  • International driving permit (if applicable): For non-EU/EEA drivers, with your domestic license.
  • Vaccination records and health documentation: Copy of important medical records, medication list.
  • Printed and digital copies of reservations: Flights, hotels, car rentals, tours.
  • Emergency contact information: Family/friends, embassy/consulate, travel insurance line.
  • Student/senior/press IDs for discounts (if applicable): ISIC, European Youth Card, press card.
  • Store copies separately from originals.

Technology & Electronics

Power & Connectivity

Spain uses 230V, 50Hz, with plug types F (two round pins with side grounding clips) and C (two round pins). If your devices are from different plug types (US, UK, Australia), a Type C/F power adapter is needed. A Universal travel adapter works for other destinations too. Most modern phone and laptop chargers are dual voltage (100-240V).

Mobile Phone & SIMs

  • Most modern smartphones are compatible with European GSM networks. Check if your phone is unlocked.
  • Local SIM cards are available from Vodafone, Orange, Movistar. Purchase at airports or phone shops.
  • ESIMs are supported by many phones for easy activation and switching without a physical card.

Camera & Charging

A mirrorless or DSLR camera captures high-quality photos. For convenience, a Smartphone with a good camera often suffices. A Lightweight travel tripod assists with stable shots. Portable chargers and power banks are vital for keeping devices charged while out.

Essential Travel Apps

  • Navigation: Google Maps for directions. Citymapper for public transit if available.
  • Translation: Google Translate (offline packs available).
  • Ride-sharing: Cabify and Bolt operate in Murcia city and Cartagena.

Data Backup & Online Security

Cloud Storage

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

Physical Backup

A Small external hard drive for large media files.

VPN Services

Protect your data on public Wi-Fi. Consider NordVPN or ExpressVPN.

Health & Wellness Items

Personal Health Supplies

Pack smart for your health to manage minor ailments or emergencies effectively.

First Aid Kit Contents

Medications & Sun Protection

Carry all prescription medications in original packaging with a doctor's prescription or letter. This avoids customs issues or helps with refills.

Over-the-Counter & Sun Needs

  • Remedies for cold/flu, indigestion, and motion sickness (if prone to it on boat trips).
  • High-SPF sunscreen and After-sun lotion are essential for Murcia's climate.
  • Insect repellent is good for summer evenings or natural areas.

Special Considerations

Altitude Sickness

  • Altitude sickness is not a concern; Murcia is not a high-altitude destination.
  • Water purification: Generally not necessary for tap water in Murcia.
  • A Portable water filter might be considered for extensive remote hiking, but not typical.

Personal Hygiene & Motion Sickness

  • Motion sickness remedies: Relevant for boat trips on the Mar Menor or along the coast.
  • Personal hygiene: Common toiletries are available. Bring specific brands or sensitive skin products.
  • Travel-sized versions are convenient.

Activity-Specific Equipment

Hiking Gear

A Small backpack for day trips, Comfortable hiking shoes, and a refillable water bottle are useful. Trekking poles assist with challenging terrain.

  • Daypack
  • Hiking shoes
  • Water bottle
  • Trekking poles

Water Sports Gear

For snorkeling/diving, some prefer their own Mask and snorkel for comfort and hygiene. Fins are often rented. For cycling, a Helmet usually comes with rentals. Padded shorts for long rides.

  • Mask & Snorkel
  • Helmet (for cycling)
  • Padded shorts
  • GoPro (for underwater)

Beach Essentials

Beyond swimwear, a Quick-dry towel and a small Waterproof bag for electronics are useful. Renting equipment locally for activities like cycling, snorkeling, or water sports is often more convenient than bringing it from home.

  • Quick-dry towel
  • Waterproof bag
  • Swimwear
  • Sunscreen

Rent vs. Bring Equipment

Good to Rent Locally

  • Bicycles for casual rides.
  • Snorkeling/diving fins.
  • Water sports equipment (paddleboards, kayaks).
  • This saves luggage space.

Consider Bringing

  • Personal mask and snorkel for hygiene.
  • Specialized camera gear.
  • Your own Water filter for remote hiking.
  • Comfortable personal Travel gear.

Miscellaneous Must-Haves

Comfort & Security

Small items that boost comfort, security, and convenience during your trip.

Travel Comfort & Security

Reusable Items & Local Essentials

Reduce waste and increase convenience with these items.

Eco-Friendly & Region-Specific

Sustainable Travel Items

Reusable Water Bottle

Fill from tap water.

Foldable Shopping Bag

For markets and groceries.

Reusable Cutlery

Reduces single-use plastics.

Universal Adapter

Versatile for all devices.

Destination-Specific Considerations

Items to Consider

  • Spanish phrasebook or translation app.
  • No highly specialized items beyond general Travel gear.
  • Extra beach or water sports equipment for Mar Menor (rentals also available).

Difficult to Find Locally

  • Specific dietary items (gluten-free brands, certain protein powders).
  • Niche health supplements.
  • Bring a sufficient supply of these if important.

Packing Pro Tip

A small, collapsible Daypack is highly recommended. Carry water, snacks, a light jacket, and souvenirs on daily excursions.

Consider packing cubes to keep your luggage organized and maximize space.