Love it or loathe it, packing is a necessary part of proper trip preparation. Thankfully, Portugal is a destination that doesn’t require too much forward planning (you can leave your skis and safari gear at home), so don’t worry if you do find yourself succumbing to the last-minute suitcase scramble. We’re big fans of a pre-trip packing list to aid with organisation and have compiled some suggestions of what to pack for Portugal to help kickstart your holiday prep…
Travel Essentials:
- Passport, driver’s license, travel documents, travel credit card (obvious but an extra reminder never hurts)
- Sunglasses and sunhat: Portugal enjoys bright sunshine all year round, so sunglasses can come in handy even during the winter months
- Sun cream: especially important for spring and summer
- Phone and camera or GoPro (along with all necessary chargers)
- European plug adapter
- Comfortable trainers for city exploration and hiking boots (with comfy socks) if you’re opting for more adventurous activities
- Swimwear, sarong/beach towel and flips-flops/sliders: Portugal boasts more than its fair share of beautiful beaches
- Toiletries and personal medication (there are plenty of supermarkets and farmácias on hand if you forget any, or wish to save space in your suitcase)
- Insect repellent and bite relief cream
Other Useful Items:
- Reusable water bottle to reduce plastic waste
- Bum bag/daypack for adventuring during the day
- Waterproof jacket and umbrella: showers can occur in any season thanks to its Atlantic climate
- Money belt to store your euros, travel credit card and ID
- Rash guard if you plan on surfing, but also good for preventing sunburn while swimming or snorkelling
- Portable battery pack
Summer:
- Lightweight clothing suitable for toasty temperatures, such as shorts, skirts, t-shirts
- A jumper/cardigan/jacket and trousers/a longer skirt for the evenings and to protect against mozzie bites
Winter:
- Warmer clothing for the cooler climes of these seasons
- Comfortable trainers or boots (rather than sandals)
- A coat, gloves, woolly hat and scarf, especially if visiting the north of the country where it’s chillier
Spring & Autumn:
- If you’re travelling during the shoulder seasons, it might be warm enough for shorts and t-shirts during the day, with nippier weather setting in as the sun goes down
- It’s best to ere on the side of caution and pack layers that work for all eventualities
