Are you planning a trip to Madrid and feeling overwhelmed with what to pack? Look no further! In this post, you will find essential tips on what to pack for Madrid. From comfortable walking shoes to a versatile wardrobe that can take you from exploring historic landmarks to indulging in delicious tapas, this packing guide has got you covered.
Say adiós to packing stress, chill and get ready for your trip.
Clothing - What to wear in Madrid?
When it comes to dressing for Madrid, considering the diverse seasons and weather types is crucial. From the scorching summers to the chilly winters, Madrid experiences a wide range of temperatures throughout the year.
Whether you’re visiting during the sunny spring or the crisp autumn, knowing what to wear can make or break your experience in the Spanish capital. We’ll dive into the essential wardrobe pieces for each season, helping you stay stylish and comfortable no matter the weather in Madrid. So, you might not need every item on this list, just take what makes sense for the season you’re visiting Madrid.
Jackets
When planning for a trip to Madrid, it’s essential to pack the right jackets or coats to suit the varying seasons and weather conditions.
- A short denim jacket is a versatile choice that works well for mild days in the spring or autumn.
- A long puffer jacket is perfect for the chilly winters, providing warmth and insulation against the cold.
- For the transitional seasons like fall and spring, a soft-shell jacket offers protection against wind and light rain.
Being prepared with these different types of jackets ensures comfort and style while exploring the lively streets of Madrid throughout the year.
Jackets for women
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All Seasons
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Spring, Summer & Autumn
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Winter Wear
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$57.99
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$89.99
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Jackets for men
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All Seasons
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Winter Wear
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$59.99
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$30.99
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$69.98
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Sweaters and long sleeves
When visiting Madrid, it’s important to pack a variety of long sleeves to adapt to the changing seasons and weather conditions.
- A hoodie is a versatile choice for cooler days or evenings, providing warmth and comfort.
- A button-down shirt offers a more polished look for casual outings or dining at upscale restaurants.
- The merino long sleeve t-shirt is perfect for layering during both mild and cold weather, as it regulates body temperature effectively.
Packing these 3 items is a smart choice, even in spring and summer. When we visited in summer, some evenings were quite chilly, and I was very happy to add a warm layer underneath my shirt. So, be prepared for Madrid’s diverse climate by including these different long sleeve options in your travel wardrobe.
Sweaters and long sleeves for women
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$28.99
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Sweaters and long sleeves for men
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$29.99
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$25.87
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T-shirts and tops
It’s essential to pack a variety of t-shirts and tops suitable for different seasons and weather conditions.
- A linen shirt with short sleeves is perfect for hot summers in Madrid, keeping you cool and stylish while exploring the city.
- A classic short-sleeve t-shirt is a versatile option for mild weather or layering during spring and autumn.
- For scorching hot days, a sleeveless top is a chic choice to stay comfortable and trendy.
Investing in a mix of these tops ensures you’re prepared for the milder spring days and the hot summer days. Or they add that much-needed extra layer on those colder days.
T-shirts and tops for women
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$28.99
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$24.99
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$17.10
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T-shirts and tops for men
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N/A
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$45.00
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Trousers and shorts
What trousers and shorts are the best option for this trip?
- Opt for loose linen pants to stay cool during the hot summers
- A pair of leggings can be versatile for layering in both cool and warm weather. They don’t take up a lot of space, and you can use them to go to the gym in your hotel, so you can keep up with your fitness.
- Jeans provide warmth for the chilly winter months. They are also a go-to choice for a casual night out.
- For a relaxed and casual look, pack a pair of stylish shorts, perfect for exploring the vibrant city streets during the spring and autumn seasons.
Taking a mix of trousers and shorts gives you the possibility to switch whenever you like. As you’ll probably be walking a lot when exploring, make sure to choose comfortable fabrics.
Trousers and shorts for women
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$35.99
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$36.99
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$27.99
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Trousers and shorts for men
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Dresses and skirts for the city
If you like wearing dresses and skirts, make sure to pick something that suits your activities. A midi or long dress or skirt might be a more versatile option when visiting a big city. It’s so much more comfortable to move around freely, hopping on and off buses, wine and dine and do whatever you like to do, in a dress or skirt with a comfortable fit.
- A maxi sun dress is ideal for those warm summer days in the city. Adding a jacket and some accessories can turn your sun dress into evening wear.
- For a casual day out exploring Madrid’s attractions, a comfortable short sleeve dress is a great choice. You can pair it with sneakers to easily explore the parks and neighbourhoods of Madrid on foot.
- A knit dress can be perfect for the cooler months.
Casual dresses
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Summer
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Spring, Summer & Autumn
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Winter
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$45.99
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$37.99
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$49.99
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Casual skirts
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Spring & Summer
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Spring, Summer & Autumn
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Autumn & Winter
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$30.98
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$32.99
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$35.99
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Underwear
You probably know exactly what underwear you’re going to take on your trip. If you have any doubt, a merino shortie can be a great choice due to its breathable and moisture-wicking properties. In the hot summer months, lightweight and breathable fabrics are so comfortable to wear, they help you to stay cool and dry. For the colder seasons, layering with thermal underwear can provide extra warmth.
Regardless of the season, opting for comfortable underwear will make your time exploring the city much more pleasant.
These shorties are super comfortable. They're super soft and they stay in the right shape and place!
The merino underwear for men is made out of the same fabric. It's comfortable and it always has the perfect temperature.
Swimwear
When considering swimwear for your Madrid trip, a tankini swimsuit for women and swim shorts for men with inner lining are excellent choices. These pieces are not only stylish, but also incredibly comfortable, making them ideal for a spa day or swimming activities.
- The tankini offers the convenience of a two-piece design while providing ample coverage and support.
- If you’re looking for something a bit more feminine and with perfect tummy control, a high-waisted bathing suit might be the way to go.
- For a more active look, opt for a comfortable sporty bikini.
- Swim shorts with inner lining for men ensure both comfort and modesty, allowing for unrestricted movement while swimming.
Swimwear for women
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Good coverage
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Top pick
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Sporty
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$36.99
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$35.99
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Swimwear for men
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Simple & good
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Sporty
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Top pick
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$19.90
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$32.99
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Shoes
First, shoes have to fit just perfectly, so we always opt for buying or shoes in store, so you can test them out. When planning what shoes to wear for Madrid, the most important thing to consider is comfort.
- In hot summer months, a comfortable sandal is ideal for exploring the city’s streets and parks. Make sure to choose a pair that doesn’t make your feet hurt. Leather can be a good option.
- A sporty sneaker is a versatile option for mild spring and autumn weather, providing both style and comfort for long walks.
- For winter days or outdoor adventures, sturdy hiking boots offer support and protection against rain or occasional snow.
Shoes for women
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41,24€
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Shoes for men
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$54.95
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Toiletries, make-up and medical kit
When packing your suitcase, don’t forget to bring the right toiletries, make-up, and medical essentials.
- Make sure to include a toiletry bag filled with travel-sized shampoo, conditioner, body wash, toothpaste, a toothbrush, day cream, cotton swabs, a brush and your favourite perfume.
- A first aid kit with band-aids, pain relievers, antiseptic wipes, and any necessary medications is crucial.
- And for the ladies, don’t forget a small make-up bag with essentials like foundation, mascara, lipstick, and compact powder for touch-ups on the go.
Staying organized with these essentials will make your stay more hassle-free.
Deodorant and perfume
Packing the right scents help you to stay fresh during your trip.
- Opt for a natural deodorant roll-on to combat the warm Spanish sun.
- Not sure which fragrant to bring, or do you want to try something new? In summer, I opt for Dolce & Gabbana Light Blue perfume, which is very refreshing and smell a bit like citrus fruits.
- Choosing a perfume is very personal, so go with something that makes you feel good.
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Unisex
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Women
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Men
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£7.49
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$106.00
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Tooth care
Don’t forget to include your tooth brush, paste and dental floss, so you can show off that bright smile on all the holiday pictures.
- A bamboo toothbrush with a travel case is a sustainable and eco-friendly choice, ideal for travel.
- Biodegradable dental floss picks help you maintain your dental health.
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$8.99
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$6.98
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$5.49
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Soap and shampoo
Also include items for body care that are not only practical but also eco-friendly.
- Don’t forget to pack a natural soap to cleanse your skin gently and effectively.
- A shampoo bar is perfect for reducing waste and space in your luggage, while ensuring your hair stays healthy.
- Additionally, bring along a leakproof soap box to store these items securely and prevent any mess in your travel bag.
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$6.00
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$12.99
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$4.99
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Toiletry bag
All these items for body care are easily packed and transported in a handy toiletry bag. Selecting the right toiletry bag helps you to stay organized.
- Consider a compact toiletry bag if you prefer travelling light with only essential items.
- Opt for a toiletry bag with a hanging hook for convenience in small bathrooms.
- Alternatively, choose a spacious bag that can store full-size bottles if you plan to bring along a variety of products.
- For your make-up, a waterproof bag with multiple pockets is useful to store your diverse items.
The choice ultimately depends on your personal preferences and the specific toiletries you deem necessary for your travels.
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Compact
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Top pick
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With jewellery organizer
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Make-up bag
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$19.99
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$27.99
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$23.99
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Additional toiletry items
Include some essential toiletry items for your personal care needs. Along with the basics, remember to pack a day cream to keep your skin hydrated, cotton swabs for various uses, nail clippers, and a hairbrush to keep your hair in place.
Don’t forget specific items like a lens case and product for your contact lenses if needed to ensure you have everything for your daily care routine.
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$17.99
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$2.56
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$6.44
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$9.99
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First aid kit and medication
Pack a well-rounded medical kit that includes basic supplies such as bandages, antiseptic wipes, adhesive tape, and over-the-counter medications for common ailments like headaches and stomach issues.
Add any personal medication you use regularly. Of course, you can always find a doctor and a pharmacy in the city if you need one, it’s just handy to come prepared.
This small first aid kit contains everything to get you started with small wounds or bruises.
Electronics
Bring along some electronic essentials to enhance your travel experience. We used to take a big camera and extra lenses with us on our trips, but we don’t do that any more for 2 main reasons;
- It’s too bulky and not fun to walk around with.
- We invested in a phone with a good camera, so when can take high-quality pictures with our phone.
So, we scrapped the big camera off our packing list. These are our electronics essentials:
- Don’t forget to pack your iPhone (or other phone with a good camera) for staying connected, capturing memories, and navigating the city with ease.
- Include a Sony noise-canceling headphone for uninterrupted music or enjoyment while on the go. It’s also very handy to block out excessive noise.
- Bring an e-reader to relax and dive into your favourite books during downtime.
- Lastly, ensure you pack a power bank to keep all your devices charged up throughout your adventures in Madrid.
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£965.22
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N/A
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Backpack or suitcase?
Choosing the right luggage depends on a lot of what makes you feel comfortable.
- Opt for a backpack if you intend to travel light and easily navigate the city’s streets and public transport.
- Consider a suitcase equipped with 360° wheels if you need to pack more items without struggling with manoeuvrability.
- Lastly, a small daypack is essential for your daily explorations, keeping your essentials close at hand while you’re moving from A to B.
Backpack & suitcase
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Easy carry for men
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Easy carry for women
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Roll instead of carry
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Day Pack
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$172.84
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$169.99
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Extra luggage items
When preparing for a trip, also think about additional items that can enhance your travel experience.
- Consider using packing cubes to compress and organize your clothes efficiently in your luggage.
- A padlock is also a handy accessory for keeping your valuables secure in your bags or in your room.
- Additionally, a money belt is a clever way to outsmart pickpockets and safeguard your cash and important documents while exploring. These extra luggage items can provide peace of mind and convenience during your travels.
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$24.99
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Wrapping it up - What to pack for Madrid
In conclusion, deciding what to pack for Madrid is a personal endeavour, so it depends on your individual preferences and needs.
- One thing is for sure, choosing comfortable clothing and supportive footwear can significantly elevate your travel experience as you explore the city.
- Consider the varying seasons and weather conditions in Madrid when selecting your wardrobe.
- Don’t forget to pack a handy medical kit for emergencies and essential travel items to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey.
- Ultimately, packing smartly and thoughtfully sets the foundation for a hassle-free adventure.
If you want some more inspiration, have a look at our Madrid itinerary and our guide on where to stay in Madrid.
Choosing the right accommodation for your budget and travel style can really enhance your Madrid experience.
- Choose a high-quality hostel if you travel on a budget or want to mingle with other travellers.
- Pick one of the quirky boutique hotels for a personal approach.
- Go with a luxury hotel if you really want to pamper yourself.
So, I hope you have an awesome trip. If you want to discover more of Spain, have a look at these amazing Spain itineraries. Happy travels!
