Like an estimated 18 million brits this year, I am heading to Spain for my holidays. Why? The Iberian Peninsula is an unforgettable destination, filled with sunshine, history, and diverse culture. Whether you’re exploring the bustling streets of Madrid or relaxing along the Mediterranean coast, Spain holidays offer something for everyone.
While you’re probably already dreaming about the food and the sights, a well-packed suitcase will allow you to focus on the experience, rather than worrying about forgotten items or unsuitable clothing.
Weather & Clothing Tips for Spain
Spain’s climate and temperatures varies widely depending on region and season:
- Andalusia (e.g. Seville, Granada): Hot and dry, with summer highs often exceeding 35°C. Pack light, breathable fabrics, sunhats, and strong SPF.
- Galicia & the north: Expect cooler, wetter conditions, especially in spring and autumn. Bring a light waterproof jacket and shoes with grip.
- The Canary Islands: Mild year-round, but evenings can get cool and it can be windy. Layers are your best friend.
- Layering is key: A cardigan, shawl or light jacket can make cooler evenings much more comfortable. You can wear this on the plane to save space.
Cultural note: When visiting churches or monasteries, it’s respectful to wear clothing that covers shoulders and knees. A lightweight scarf can be a versatile addition.
Spain Travel Safety: Protecting Valuables
Cities like Barcelona, Seville, and Madrid are amazing to explore, but also known for pickpocketing in tourist areas like Las Ramblas in Barcelona. Stay aware:
- Wear a crossbody or anti-theft travel bag.
- Keep phones, cash, and passports in zipped compartments.
- Use hotel safes where possible.
- Be extra cautious in crowded markets, metro stations, or while queuing for attractions.
Tip: If travelling with a backpack, swing it around to your front in crowded places.
Ultimate Spain Packing Checklist
Here’s a helpful checklist to get you started, broken down by category for clarity:
Clothes/Accessories
- Lightweight tops & shorts/skirts
- Comfortable walking shoes/sandals
- Evening layers (jumper, cardigan) than can match multiple outfits
- Sunhat or cap
- Swimwear
- Shawl/sarong (for churches or beach cover-up)
- Sunglasses or raincoat depending on forecast
- Beach bag, towel, flip-flops if appropriate
Toiletries
- High SPF sunscreen (especially for fair British skin)
- After-sun lotion
- Travel-sized shampoo/conditioner
- Toothbrush/paste
- Deodorant
- Razor & shaving cream (must go in hold)
- Lip balm with SPF
Documents
- Passport (+ photocopy or digital backup)
- EHIC/GHIC card (for healthcare cover)
- Travel insurance details
- Accommodation/booking confirmations
Tech
- Phone & charger
- Type C or F plug adapter (I take a 4 way extension to maximise charging space)
- Portable power bank
- Headphones/earbuds
- E-reader or entertainment for flights
Health & First Aid
- Prescription medication (in original packaging)
- Painkillers (e.g. paracetamol or ibuprofen)
- Travel sickness tablets
- Plasters/blister pads
- Hand sanitiser
- Face masks (optional, but still required in some clinics or pharmacies)
Obviously now your phone covers essentials for your trip like map, guidebook, camera and phrasebook.
UK Traveller Tips for Spain
If you’re travelling from the UK, here are a few extra things to know:
- You no longer need to unpack your hand luggage at security at UK airports, but restrictions still apply. It just makes life easier.
- Plug Type: Spain uses Type C or F plugs. Your UK plugs won’t work without an adapter.
- Healthcare: Bring your EHIC/GHIC card for public healthcare access. It doesn’t replace travel insurance, but helps with urgent medical needs.
- British citizens do not need a visa for short visits to Spain (within 90 days in any 180-day period)
- Spain has excellent public transport, download Renfe’s app for train tickets or check local bus schedules via Moovit.
- Local emergency numbers: Spain uses 112 for police/fire/ambulance).
- Phone Use & Roaming Charges Post-Brexit: Since the UK left the EU, free EU roaming is no longer guaranteed. Some UK mobile networks now charge for data, calls, or texts in Spain, while others still offer free roaming as part of your plan. If this is the case for you, turn off data roaming in advance, and use Wi-Fi in your hotel, bars, etc. Download offline maps of your destination using Google Maps so you can navigate without using mobile data
- Make sure you have a card that has 0% on foreign transactions. ATMs are easy to find, but check exchange fees in advance.
- It’s a quick flight, but be prepared for delays on your flight.
Language Tips
While English is spoken in tourist areas, even learning a few basic Spanish phrases (or using a translation app) goes a long way. Try:
- “Hola”: Hello
- “Buenos días”: Good morning
- “Buenas tardes”: Good afternoon
- “Buenas noches”: Good evening/Good night
- “Adiós”: Goodbye
- “Por favor” – Please
- “Gracias” – Thank you
- “¿Hablas inglés?”: Do you speak English?
- “No entiendo”: I don’t understand
- “¿Dónde está el baño?” – Where is the toilet?
Final Thoughts
Being smart with your packing list helps you travel lighter, safer, and more confidently. With this guide, you’re well on your way to soaking up the best of Spain, whether you’re sipping sangria in the sun or hiking the Basque coast.
