Portugal Packing List: The Essentials

I love a good list. If you’re anything like me, you make a packing list for your trips that you double and triple check before take off. Forgetting an essential item can often throw a wrench in your plans. I’ve put together a packing list that I followed before heading across the Atlantic for about 10 days. This list was made to accommodate backpackers + 1 personal carry-on. If you plan on taking a suitcase or another form of luggage, plan accordingly. And if you’re trying to decide on how to pack your things, I would recommend taking a large “hiking” or “travel” backpack, especially if you’re going solo. Being able to have all of my luggage with me at all times really made my travel much more seamless. I bypassed baggage claims with connecting flights and didn’t have to worry about the whereabouts of my belongings. Also, many streets in Portugal were hilly and/or cobblestoned a.k.a not ideal for rolling around a suitcase. Here are some of the main things I brought with me and how I organized them. (This packing list is not comprehensive but includes things I was glad I brought along with me.)

Main Bag

• Shower shoes: If you are staying in a hostel (but not a bad idea for any place), make sure you bring these with you. I picked up some flip flops from Target for about $3 USD

• Laundry bag: In the interest of saving space, there were items I rewore but there are obviously some clothes you will need to wash before wearing again. Make sure you bring a bad to separate your clean clothes from your dirty clothes.

  • There are laundromats available in Portugal if you are worried about saving space or having enough clothes to wear.

• Swim suit: Even if you are visiting during the winter like me, think twice about bringing swimwear. When you’re in the south of Portugal, a swimming opportunity may present itself, even if it includes a wet suit.

• Clothes: Bring basics that you can layer and mix and match.

  • I brought 1 pair of jeans, a black turtle neck, a white turtle neck, 1 sweater, a skirt, a dress, 2 smaller jackets, a button down, and leggings

• Organizing: Packing cubes are a great way to compress and organize your belongings. It saved me from digging through my backpack looking for something. Make sure to keep your toiletries in a specified toiletry bag as well. There are many great hanging bags available and will save you if a lid pops off.

Carry-On

• Basic toiletries: I would recommend bringing dry shampoo, deodorant, and a toothbrush in your carry-on bag. If your luggage were to get lost, then you wouldn’t be down and out. It’s also great to freshen up in the airport bathroom during a long layover.

• Outlet converter: Make sure you’re able to charge your devices.

• Battery pack: I actually didn’t bring this but ended up buying one over there. Constantly checking your battery percentage while you’re out and about is a doozy. Give yourself peace of mind and have this on hand.

• Passport (of course 🙂)

• Debit and credit card: I never had any trouble finding an ATM within a few blocks of where I was. Most places do take card but some smaller shops and restaurants require cash.

• Umbrella: This was another thing I did not bring with me but ended up buying while I was there. It’s always best to be prepared. It rained in both Porto and Lisbon at a moment’s notice. (Next week’s post will be about visiting Portugal during the winter season.)

• Sunscreen

• Snacks: There’s no shortage of delicious food in Portugal. Having something to snack is never a bad idea though. Especially if you plan on taking a day trip away from the city or just don’t feel like leaving your Airbnb.

Consider This

If you know you’ll be spending a lot of time out on the water or in the elements, consider bringing a dry bag for your phone and essentials. Also, make room for a small towel just in case your hostel doesn’t provide towels or you go for an impromptu dip. The hostel I stayed at in Porto provided towels but at an extra cost. If you are staying in hostels to save money, and not so much for the social aspect, bring an eye mask and ear plugs to make sure you’re well rested before the next day’s adventure. There will obviously be things that you will have on your person. Make sure one of those things is comfortable, broken in shoes. Your feet will thank you!

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Anything you would add to this list? Let me know.

See you next week!