Need to know what to pack for Spain? I got you! As an American and Spain resident for over 15 years, I am handing you this list of what to bring – so that it makes sense for your travel style. This minimalist, ultimate packing list for Spain is for you. Whether you’re going to the scorching Seville in southern Spain in the summer or the rainiest region in the winter, I cover that and everything in between. Say goodbye to overpacking and say hello to the essential items that you need to keep your luggage light.

Ultimate Spain Packing List

Clothing to Bring to Spain

Essential Clothing Items to Bring to Spain in Winter

It’s important to remember that the north of Spain is colder and the south is warmer. This goes for any time of the year.

• Medium to heavy jacket or coat
• Base layers
• Long-sleeved tops
• Sweaters and Long-Sleeved Tops
• Winter Leggings: pairing them with winter leggings or thermal tights.
• Warm Scarf: A wool or cashmere scarf will keep you warm
• Thermal Base Layers (for all regions)
• Cardigan Sweater or Hoodie: layering and adjusting your warmth level
• Gloves and Mittens: (not necessary in south or Barcelona)
• Warm Hat: (not necessary in south or Barcelona)
• Medium-Weight Pants
• Comfortable Sneakers or shoes

Essential Clothing Items to Bring to Spain in Spring

• Lightweight Jackets
• Layered Tops
• T-Shirts and Tank Tops
• Comfortable Jeans
• Casual Dresses
• Lightweight Scarves
• Spring Skirts
• Comfortable Walking Shoes
• Sunglasses
• Hat or Cap
• Undergarments (underwear and bra)
• Lightweight Pajamas

Essential Clothing Items to Bring to Spain in Summer

• Lightweight and breathable tops (linen, light cotton, modal, etc.)
• Sleeveless tops
• Shorts and skirts
• Comfortable and stylish sandals
• Swimsuits and cover-ups
• Sunglasses and sunhat
• Light cardigan or shawl for cooler evenings (Northern Spain or a freak night)
• Dresses for both casual and dressy occasions
• Underwear
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Sunscreen and a reusable water bottle

Essential Clothing Items to Bring to Spain in Fall

• Light sweaters
• Long-sleeved tops
• Jeans or trousers
• Stylish dresses
• Cardigans or jackets
• Scarves for layering
• Closed-toe shoes or boots
• Casual skirts
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Undergarments
• Cozy pajamas

Footwear to Bring to Spain

Depending on the season and region, you might want to bring this:

• Comfortable walking shoes: Comfortable shoes like a leather shoe or sneakers
• Flip flops or beach sandals: If you’re hitting the beach or hotel pool
• Stylish sandals: For the summer
• Dressy shoes: If you plan on dining at upscale restaurants or attending events
• Hiking or sport shoes: If you’re planning on hiking or outdoor activities
• Flip flops or “house slippers”: For the hotel or home

Toiletries and Personal Care for Spain

Electronics and Gadgets to Bring to Spain

• Smartphone and charger
• Earphones or headphones
• Power bank
• Universal adapter
• Travel Adapter: Make it compatible with Spanish power outlets, Spain uses a round two-pin adapter
• Laptop and charger (optional)
• Camera (optional)
• Lightweight e-reader like a Kindle (optional)

Travel Documents and Essentials to Bring to Spain

• Passport
• Visas (if necessary)
• International driver’s license (If you want to rent a car)
• Travel insurance documents
• Flight/train tickets
• Physical and electronic copies of important documents
• Money belt or secure pouch
• Physical map or offline digital maps

Other Essentials for Spain

• Water bottle: I like a double-wall steel bottle for the summer to keep water cold
• Reusable shopping bag: These are handy because you can fold them easily and take them out when you don’t have a bottle
• Travel-sized sewing kit
• Travel-sized laundry detergent packets (for washing clothes on the go)
• Insect repellent
• Travel pillow and eye mask (for flights or long journeys)
• Travel umbrella: For unexpected rain showers
• Wipes: Not just for babies’ butts, but for washing your hands in a pinch
• Travel Towel: Bamboo or microfiber towel
• Ziplock Bags: For organizing snacks and keeping small items like chargers together
• Mini First Aid Kit: Tylenol, aspirin, band-aids, and antiseptic wipes
• Portable Phone Charger: Ensure you stay connected by having a backup power source for your devices
• Travel Journal, agenda, pen: For people who like planning and/or reflecting
• Local SIM Card: If you have an unlocked phone, a local SIM card can be handy for data and communication
• Snacks: Granola bars, nuts, gummy bears, etc. to keep in your handbag in case you get stuck with the munchies

That’s it! What do think of my complete packing list for Spain? Am I missing something? Let me know in the comments, I read them all!