Close your eyes, and you can see it…Sunlight on the water, a plate of paella and a promenade stretching towards the next cove. Spain has nearly 5000 kilometres of coastline on the mainland alone, and 179 islands including the Balearics in the Mediterranean and the Canary Islands off the west coast of Africa. When it comes to getting your fix of sand between your toes, you’re spoiled for choice. Here are five tips for packing for a Spanish coastal trip, whether you’re planning to sunbathe, surf, or explore by boat.
Pack for the activities you enjoy
Match your kit to the activities you have planned on the water. If you’re a surfer heading to an iconic surf region in Spain, you’ll need the right swimwear to enjoy your time safely. The Atlantic off the coast of northern Spain feels coldest from winter into spring, so you might consider packing a full wetsuit rather than just a bikini or shorts and a rash guard.
During boat trips, wind can make the weather feel cooler than it is, so still pack protective clothing. A secure cap with a neck cover will protect sensitive skin from the mid-day sun. Swimming shoes with grippy soles also protect your feet when exploring rock pools or pebbled beaches.
Bring comfortable footwear for walking
Reserve your open-toe shoes for soft sandy beaches. Cobbled lanes, sloping harbour roads and clifftop paths can be a hazard for your ankles in sandals or flip-flops. A supportive pair of walking shoes or trainers with decent tread is a must-have.
Keep Sun Protection Within Reach
Somewhere like Spain, UV rays still reach your skin on cooler or overcast days, and water magnifies light. Check Spain’s Ultraviolet Index in the area you’re visiting and pack broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30. If you sweat easily or plan to swim in the sea often, you’ll need to reapply more, so try to bring several bottles. Add sunglasses and a hat to your bag for shade on the go, and you’re all set.
Pack lighter by choosing clothes you can wear on repeat
When you’re travelling on a budget, it’s natural to book somewhere with affordable flights. Popular destinations for cheap Spain holidays, like Alicante, Majorca and Ibiza, often have flights for under £100. The downside of bargain prices is usually luggage limitations. You’ll need to pack efficiently, with a compact mix-and-match wardrobe to meet your luggage allowance.
Think about which shirts match the shorts you’re bringing, or which jacket goes with all your dresses. If you have standalone outfits, they might be taking up unnecessary space.
Leave Room for things you might bring back
Leave some space in your suitcase for keepsakes rather than filling every corner before you leave. Spain’s coastal towns offer plenty of tempting finds, from locally made ceramics and woven bags to regional food products like cured meats that travel well. Before you leave, weighing your luggage again helps avoid unexpected luggage charges from new buys.
Pack with purpose to make the most of Spain’s coast
The best suitcase for a Spanish coastal escape isn’t necessarily the fullest one. A little room for souvenirs you’ll find on your trip will level up your holiday. Meanwhile, packing versatile clothing and strategic accessories will improve your comfort the most (alongside a healthy stock of sun protection).
