Greece: What to Pack!

Ah, the country of Greece. This Mediterranean climate is suitable for wearing light, breezy clothing. The basic rule for packing for travel is usually to pack clothes that are “comfortable and casual”. Save the dressier clothes for nice dinners and going out.

Sandals are a great footwear accessory as the climate calls for them. The sandy beaches require sandals as the sand can be extremely hot and sea creatures, pebbles, etc live on the sand! However, it is important to remember that many touristy sights in Greece are at the top of hills and mountains so sneakers are a must for sight-seeing days!

Some, but minimal, long sleeved clothing and sweatshirts are great to have at night as the weather can be cool on the Greek Islands and mountainous areas when the sun goes down. Also, sight-seeing in museums, churches and other buildings with air conditioning can be chilly. If you do happen to be traveling to one of the thousand islands of Greece, don’t forget your swimsuit!

Something else to keep in mind when packing for vacation activities in Greece is that many mosques and churches do not allow tourists with bare legs and arms inside the building. It has been recommended by tourists to carry a sarong style scarf with you, which can easily be used to tie around your legs or drape over your shoulders. The sarong can even double as a beach cover-up. This is obviously a very popular trend because sarongs are sold almost everywhere in Greece. This fashion accessory is light enough to carry around all day and doesn’t take up much room in your suitcase either!

Additionally, here are some key items that should be on your Checklist:

• plenty of sunscreen
• sun hat or other covering
• sunglasses
• filtered water bottle (staying hydrated is important on your trip)
• power adapters (make sure your electronics are compatible)
• traveler guides/ maps/ phrasebook
• a camera/ batteries
• insect repellent (mosquitoes can be a problem in some areas of Greece)

Lastly, in regards to the universal plug or converter, remember that Greece uses 220V. Many of today’s electronics are dual voltage 110V and 220V so make sure you only need a plug adaptor and not a full converter. Knowing this little fact could save you time, money and space in your suitcase/carry on!

… And don’t forget to stop at your Passport Health location to pick up a malaria kit which includes appropriate repellents containing DEET, as well as a kit for traveler’s diarrhea including antibiotics and re-hydration powders, just in case you need it.

When you get to Greece, what is the FIRST thing you want to do?