Are you a heavy packer? Do you always feel like you need to bring every possible item just IN CASE you might need it during your trip? Let me tell you from experience, I’ve been there. I learned the hard way that for a few reasons this isn’t the best way to pack for your trip abroad!

The thing is, you will probably want to shop (and buy) a lot of things while in Spain – there are shops on every corner full of trendy clothes and the prices are probably lower than your average stores back home. So, plan to leave extra space in your bag for this, and refrain from shopping for an entire new wardrobe before you travel!

Simple Packing Strategies:

Bring clothes you can layer, Valencia is hot during the day but cools off at night! Remember you can always do laundry after a week or even a few days, so you won’t need everything you own! Another thing to consider are toiletries and personal items. Stash personal items in a safe and secure place, and only bring smaller toiletry items as they take up space or weight in your suitcase- and you can always buy them when you get there!

What type of suitcase should I bring?

Bring one medium/large suitcase – remember, you will have to carry it yourself! The easiest type to carry are the hardcover suitcases with 4 wheels so you don’t have to drag it, it stays well-balanced, and it’s sturdy enough to set a bag on top without it falling off.

If you plan to go on any weekend trips, you might want to bring a large backpack or a second small 4-wheel suitcase (which fits as a carry-on).

Reminder: Make sure you know the limits for luggage size and weight before you travel! If you are over the limit you will get charged a crazy fee at the airport!

Packing List Checklist (Suggestions):

Clothes:

Bring Layers – Valencia is hot during the day but cools off at night!
Light jacket
Scarf
Sweaters/cardigans/sweatshirts
T-shirts or tank tops for during the day or at night
A couple pairs of pants
A few going out outfits
Girls: Summer dresses or skirts
Plenty of socks and underwear
Pajamas
Swim suit
Swim suit cover-up or beach clothes
Workout clothes

Shoes + Accessories:

Flip flops
Flat sandals
Comfortable walking shoes/tennis shoes/flats
Shoes for going out – wedges or walkable heels (you will be walking everywhere so no need for stilettos!)
Small purse/cross-body bag that can close (with zipper)
Backpack/large bag to carry books or computer
Glasses/contacts
Sunglasses
Water bottle you can refill

Personal Items:

Passport
Copy of passport (keep in a separate place)
Debit/credit cards/cash – with access to withdraw cash abroad
Phone + charger
Computer/ipad + charger
Converter and/or adapter
Hairdryer/straightener

*It is better to just buy these when you arrive since sometimes they can break from using a converter. If you can’t live without them even for a day then try to bring small ones and plan to buy them when you arrive!

Small toiletries

REMEMBER: You can buy pretty much anything you need other than your passport and credit cards!

If you are interested in studying Spanish during your trip, take a look at our Spanish courses. Why not make the most of your visit here and return home with a new language and a guaranteed novel and unforgettable experience.