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Welcome to our Barcelona Series! Here in this series you will learn everything you need to have a perfect time in Barcelona.  We are all about eating, drinking and living local and there is no place we like to do all of that better than Barcelona!

Here is what you can expect from this series:

Top Tips for First Time Visitors to Barcelona 

Ultimate Barcelona Packing List – You’re Here!

Unique Things to Do in Barcelona 

Classic Old School Barcelona Restaurants

Top Modern Barcelona Restaurants

Eat Local in El Born

Barcelona’s Transport System

Drink Local in Barcelona

What is the One Quintessential Barcelona Thing You Have to Do?

Ultimate Barcelona Packing List

Your plane tickets to Barcelona are purchased, your passports are ready to be stamped, and your bag is…. empty!  That empty void called your suitcase is just staring at you. There is no packing list in sight. You leave tomorrow morning bright and early and you still have not packed a single item.

Panic begins to set in as you come to the realization that you have no idea what to pack.

Let’s be honest, we all procrastinate when it comes to packing. I know I do; I’m a chronic night-before-you-leave kind of packer.  Ashley, on the other hand, waits to the last minute but she has been creating a packing list in her head for at least a week.  

Me?  You can bet I have been avoiding my bag and any thought of a packing list or packing like the plague. I don’t like packing; it can be hard, stressful, and downright a pain in your rear.

Wouldn’t be nice though if someone wrote an ultimate Barcelona packing list to make life easier?

We thought so too!

And that is what we have here! Is that not why you read all of our articles so feverishly!? Because you know, you can trust us to make your life that much easier..

Also, we just happen to be self-proclaimed Barcelona experts! We’ve lived in Barcelona.  We have written 2, 3 and 5-day itineraries to the city.   We also have written an entire culinary guidebook about Barcelona, and you just read our Top Tips for First Time Visitors to Barcelona.

Well, guess what? We can help you with your ultimate packing list to Barcelona as well!

So, breath.  Enjoy that feeling of great relief flowing over your entire body.

You still look worried, though.  You say you just realized that we don’t know what season you’ll be galavanting off to Barcelona in….

Again, breath, relax, because Ashley and I have got you covered with this ultimate Barcelona packing list.

This packing list will cover spring, summer, fall and winter for you. Yup, we care about you so much, that we are going to cover all of the seasons! And lucky for you, we’re a guy and girl dynamic duo so we have both men and women covered.

Now, enjoy our ultimate Barcelona packing list!

Ultimate Barcelona Packing List Essentials

These packing list essentials will be perfect for whenever you are visiting Barcelona.  We would suggest bringing neutral colors so that you can then jazz things up with your seasonal extras and accessories!  Plus these essentials aren’t just great for Barcelona but wherever you may travel!

Women’s Packing List Essentials

A. Skirt

Skirts are perfect because they are comfy and still look good.  Barcelona is a very fashionable city and you don’t see too many people dressing down.  While they are not into super dressy fashion like you might see in Italy or France they dress with a flair.  Choose a fun skirt that even in a neutral catches the eye!

B. Dressy Top

I always pack a dressy top, usually sleeveless, that I can wear with jeans or tucked into a skirt.  I love a looser fitting top that will breathe too.  The key to this looking dressy is that the top is made of a nice material!

C. PJ’s

I am partial to Victoria’s Secret satin pj’s.  They work if it is hot or cold and they are great to relax in!

D. Jeans

This one should be self-explanatory.  I feel that everyone packs a pair of jeans no matter what (except Alex..).  They can work for night or day.  You can dress them up or you can go super casual.  Jeans are the perfect item to pack.  Personally, I am a fan of black jeans because I have a tendency to spill on myself…

E. One Comfy T-Shirt

I am not a huge t-shirt person but there can be no denying that sometimes you just need a comfy shirt to wear around.  I am partial to the one I designed (I hope for obvious reasons…) but go for a comfy shirt in a neutral color that you can wear with shorts, jeans, skirts, or even sleep in.  A comfy t-shirt should probably just be part of your arsenal no matter what!

G. Dress

I live in dresses.  I used to wear dresses to my classes in college and people used to ask me all the time why I was so dressed up. The thing is they didn’t realize that all I did was roll out of bed and put on a dress.  Dresses are low maintenance and can easily be dressed up or down and numerous dresses always make my packing list.  Make sure you pack one that you can wear around touring all day and dress up in the evening! (And beware of one that wrinkles easily!)

L. Shoes

I travel in flats.  I hardly ever bring any other shoes besides flats and I am addicted to these Lucky Brand flats. They are great for walking around as they are comfy and they can easily be paired with a dress for a night out!

Now on to the actual packing…

I. Ebags EXO

This is my new favorite bag to travel with.  I love the hard case and the fact that it has a lock which is not only TSA approved but perfect for locking up valuables when you head out.  It is also durable but still light and they have an app to track your luggage if it gets lost.

Have I mentioned that it also comes in red??

K. Packing Cubes

The best invention ever when it comes to packing is packing cubes.  We cannot stress enough how much these guys are lifesavers!  First of all, they keep your clothes organized so you don’t have to dig through your entire suitcase just to find something.  Second, they compress your clothes too so you have more room!  What is not to love?

Camera Bags: Kelly Moore Bag (H) and the Gatta Bag (J)

As for purses and bags, I love my two camera bags which can also double as a laptop bag (my Kelly Moore bag) and a regular purse (my Gatta Bag).  Gotta love bags that not only protect my cameras but do double duty!

Extra Bags: Herschel Backpack (F) and Our IPoA Tote Bag

If I decide to bring a backpack or a tote bag for going to the beach I grab either my Herschel backpack or my “Eat Local in Barcelona” inspired canvas tote!  Both are slim and can be easily packed in my suitcase but are large enough for everything you need to take to the beach.

Shop Now! Skirt,  Dressy Top, PJ’s, Jeans, T-Shirt, Dress, Suitcase, Packing Cubes, Kelly Moore Camera Bags, Gatta Bag, Herschel Backpack, Tote Bag.

Men’s Packing List Essentials

A. T-Shirts

I am a t-shirt guy plain and simple, especially when it comes to being on the move. They will always be on any of my packing lists despite Ashley’s feeling towards t-shirts (as in they are too casual). I bring them for one reason only though and that is comfort. Barcelona can be hot and humid plus no matter the season you will be walking a lot. Sometimes you just need a comfy IPoA t-shirt to wear around. I also love wearing t-shirts around the house.

B. Dress Shirt

One of the first things you will notice about Barcelona is that the locals are stylish. I mean really stylish; they can make a white t-shirt and khaki shorts look good. You are going to want to have a few nice dress shirts that you can throw on when you go out. I make sure to always have a good mix of nice dress shirts on my packing list. You never know when you need to look good and by the way, in Barcelona, you always need to look good.

C. Chinos

Pants on a packing list seems obvious but people forget pants all the time. Even in summer when it is muggy and hot you want to make sure you have pants to go to one of the nice restaurants in Barcelona. Even if that means just one pair. I personally wear some type of chinos, usually a dark pair or a khaki pair. Jeans work as well but I personally don’t like jeans.  A nice pair of dark chinos can go a long way.

D. Collared Shirt

In addition to a dress shirt, you are also going to want to pack a more casual collared shirt. I love Reyn Spooners and at least one always makes my packing list. They are traditional Hawaiian shirts (actually from Hawaii) that are not campy. Let’s just say Hawaiians actually wear them. I know this might not be for everybody so any shirt with a collar will work. It is just a way to look nice but still enjoy some comfort.

E. Tie

I am old school kind of guy and always think it is nice to have a tie or a bowtie on you. I would put a tie or a bowtie on any packing list for me. There is just something classic about wearing a tie or a bowtie when going to a nice dinner. I personally like the look and think it always smart to keep one on you just in case. Also, they do not take up much space or weight.

Sleepwear

This really up to you. I usually bring a pair of basketball shorts and that is it. Nothing fancy 🙂

Shoes

F. Everyday Shoes

Bring a pair of shoes that are comfortable and that you enjoy wearing. I am partial to Blundstone boots. They are good looking and very versatile. I also am hard on shoes and need a pair that can stand up to various activities, everything from hiking, field work, and just walking around a city. Whatever works for you just make sure to have something that keeps your feet comfortable and looks stylish.

G. Dress Shoes

I like dressing up and it is nice to have a nice pair of dress shoes to wear out at night. I favor any dress shoe coming from J. Peterman. They have some really nice high-quality dress shoes. Like I always say, you never know when you need to look good. Dress shoes are a must on any packing list!

Shop Now! T-Shirt, Dress Shirt, Chinos, Collared Shirt, Tie, Blundstone Boots, and Dress Shoes.

Toiletries

Bring the usual suspects; you know what you need to keep clean.

Also always “pack” travel insurance!  Seriously, you may never know when you need it and it covers not just flights and things but accidents and even your luggage or laptops and cameras if they get stolen.  We always use World Nomads!  It is super easy to purchase and to extend if you decide you want to move to Barcelona ;).  Guys, we cannot stress this enough – BUY TRAVEL INSURANCE!

Spring Packing List Add-Ons

Spring is an interesting time of year to travel; this is when the weather cannot make up its mind. One day it can be nice and sunny and the other day can be rainy. Spring likes to keep us travelers on their toes.  That is why layering is so important in the spring!

Women’s Spring Packing List

A. Lightweight Trench Coat

I have always loved trench coats (perhaps due to my love of Carmen San Diego) and while rain isn’t my favorite, any excuse to wear my trench coat works for me.  Spring in Barcelona is a lovely time but you can definitely still get rain.  That is why I always bring my London Fog Trench Coat.  I love this jacket not just because it’s a trench coat but because it also has a detachable liner.  That way I can wear it whether it is absolutely freezing or if I just need a light cover up.  This jacket always makes my spring packing list.  As Alex says, spring is all about layers!

B. Scarves

Scarves are the best to travel with.  They don’t take up a lot of space and you can wear them in all types of situations.  I usually bring one long cozy one that I can tie into an infinity scarf or wrap around my head if it starts raining a la Audrey Hepburn in “Breakfast at Tiffany’s.”  

I also like to bring a lightweight one to accessorize with.  Some of our favorite scarves are from Speakeasy Travel Supply which was created by fellow travel bloggers!  Their scarves are perfect to not only accessorize with (and support a small business) but they also are made for travelers with pockets to hold your passport and money!

C. Sweater

The weather can be varied in spring which is why layering is key.  I always throw a lightweight striped sweater into my bag when I travel in spring.  I love that I can throw it over basically any top and wear it with shorts, skirts, jeans, what have you!

D. Jumpsuit

I never thought I would be a jumpsuit person but honestly, they are perfect for some springtime frolicking.  They also are flattering on all different body types and are incredibly versatile.  Dress them up with a bright scarf and nice shoes and some earrings or keep it casual and throw that striped sweater over it for a lazy afternoon look!

E. Long Sleeve Shirt

Like your comfy t-shirt, this long sleeve shirt is perfect with jeans or even over your jumpsuit.  Layer it underneath your trench coat and with a scarf and you are set for whatever the spring weather may send your way!

F. Shoes: Ankle Boots

I love me some ankle boots and when they also keep my feet from getting soaking wet from the rain that is even better.  Seriously, once you find a fashionable pair of waterproof ankle boots you are set for spring!  

Shop Spring! Trench Coat, Cozy Scarf, Bright Scarf, Striped Sweater, Jumpsuit, Long Sleeve Shirt, and Ankle Boots

Men’s Spring Packing List

A. Light Jacket

It likes to rain in spring so you are going to need something to keep you dry. I would suggest going to any outdoor store and picking up a light rain jacket. They might be a little more pricey but it will be worth it when you are dry!

B. Bright Button Down

They love color in Barcelona and there is no better season to bring a bright button down than spring.  Opt for a fun color to break up the dark colors of all your outerwear and embrace the new season.  

C. Pullover

A high-quality wool pullover will be your new best friend, whether you are hiking just outside the city or just walking around the cobblestone alleys. Wool is durable and stays warm even when wet and a pullover looks great pulled over a nice button down. Also, they can be stylish and you can blend in with the locals. Pullovers are a great item for layering!

D. Fedora

Hats are a wonder during spring rainstorms plus they are undeniably fashionable.  A fedora is a nice hipster yet fashionable touch and you won’t be alone in Barcelona wearing one.  

E. Scarf

Spring can be chilly but still have its warm streaks. So having a nice light scarf is a good way to help you keep warm. Also, scarves will have you blend in with the locals. Everybody wears scarves in Barcelona.  

Shop Spring! Light Jacket, Bright Button Down, Pullover, Fedora, and a Scarf

Summer Packing List Add-Ons

Summer in Barcelona is HOT and you need to be prepared for the heat.  There really isn’t air conditioning anywhere so one of the best ways to keep cool is by choosing the right clothes.  You do not want to be stuck in clothes that can’t breathe.  Honestly, you can probably leave your jeans at home for this one…

Women’s Summer Packing List

A. Swimsuit

It’s summer and the Mediterranean is calling your name!  Not only does Barcelona have miles of beaches to relax on but they also have a wide variety of water activities to take part in.  Rent a SUP board and take to the water or spend the day out on a sailboat!  Either way, you are going to need an awesome swimsuit 🙂  

B. Lightweight Dress

Have I mentioned I love dresses?  In summer, I live in dresses, especially in Barcelona.  You are going to want a nice lightweight airy dress.  This dress is perfect for wandering around and exploring and also as a swimsuit coverup.  Plus it is bright and vibrant just in the style of the city in summer!

C. Dress for Going Out

Barcelona has amazing nightlife and you are going to want to go out and party!  From nightclubs to wine bars to goblets of gin and tonics until the sun rises this dress is perfect for any nightlife situation you find yourself in!

D. Linen Shorts

Linen is my favorite summer material and linen shorts are a must have while exploring Barcelona.  It is all about light and cool, people!

E. Romper

Here is another item of clothing I never thought would be something I would wear but I LOVE rompers for the summer.  They are light, comfy and still look stylish.  Seriously, we all need to get rompers (except maybe the guys…)

F. Shoes: Sandals

Sandals are a must in Barcelona in the summer.  Plus being Californian they almost always make our packing list no matter the season.  For the summer in Barcelona though, you are going to want a pair of sandals that you can dress up for a night out and dress down for the beach.  Versatility is key when it comes to packing shoes!

Shop Summer! Swimsuit, Lightweight Dress, Dress for Going Out, Linen Shorts, Romper, and Sandals

Men’s Summer Packing List 

A. Board Shorts

Barcelona has great beaches to spend the hot summer days. A great pair of board shorts will make your life happy. I grew up at a beach so I have gone through a few pair. My favorite by far are Hurley Phantom board shorts. They are light and quick dry and by far the best pair I have ever owned.

B. Shorts

Being a California beach kid I grew up with shorts. I like shorts that are versatile and that can be dressed up. I generally pack a khaki pair and a dark gray pair and then wear them constantly.  

C. T-shirts

Lightweight t-shirts are a key when it comes to blistering Barcelona summers. I tend to go with just plain color tees that can go with anything. I like to be versatile.

D. Sunglasses

Get yourself a nice pair of sunglasses. I suggest spending the money because they will protect your eyes better. I love Ray Ban’s Wayfarer Sunglasses.  They are stylish, durable and fold up nicely to make them easy to pack.

E. Sandals

I wear flip flops year round but for a summer packing list, you need sandals. My favorite are Rainbows. They are high quality and durable and I can walk long distances in them. I would suggest buying them before your trip to break them in a little bit.

Shop Summer!  Board shorts, Shorts, Light T-Shirts, Sunglasses, and Rainbow Sandals

Fall Packing List Add-Ons

Fall is our favorite time to travel. The weather starts to cool down from the humid summer but you don’t have to deal with rain as much especially in the early fall. The nights do get chilly so you will need to keep warm but you can still enjoy a glass of wine outside in a plaza!

Women’s Fall Packing List

A. Sweater

The weather is cooling down, leaves are falling and it’s definitely sweater weather.  There is something about that crisp fall air that makes me want to put on a cozy sweater and drink cafe amb llet all day!  

B. Tights/Leggings

Tights and leggings are a must for fall travel.  You can still wear your dresses and skirts but you might just want to be a little bit warmer.  I love ones with patterns to liven up all of the neutrals!

C. Long Sleeve Dress

A little black long sleeve dress is what you need to pack for fall.  With flats and fun stockings, you will have a comfy, classic and super stylish look for anything from visiting the Picasso Museum to la hora de vermut to tapas hopping in Poble Sec.  

D. Rain Jacket

The weather can be tricky in fall and you will probably want to pack a light rain jacket.  I am a huge fan of the longer kind to protect you as much as possible.  And this jacket won’t take up too much room in your luggage either!  

E. Chambray Top

Chambray is one of my favorite style of long sleeve shirts.  You can wear it with jeans, over a dress or with a skirt.  It is a very versatile top and is a perfect fall piece!   

F. Shoes: Boots

Boots are perfect for fall.  I love calf high boots for fall.  I just see myself crunching leaves as I stroll up the Passeig de Gràcia to admire the works of Guadì.  Boots also go perfectly with sweater dresses, jeans, and chambray!  

Shop Fall! Sweater, Tights, Long Sleeve Dress, Rain Jacket, Chambray Top, and Boots

Men’s Fall Packing List

A. Jeans

In the fall I suggest packing jeans in addition to your chinos because they are heavier and will keep you warmer. I love my Levi 501 jeans and they are the ones I pack when I decide to bring jeans. I suggest a nice dark color so that you can dress them up with a blazer for a nice dinner out.

B. Medium Weight Sweater

I much prefer to add a sweater to my packing list than a sweatshirt purely for style. I think they look nicer and are more versatile. They can be casual or dressed up and a good wool one will keep you toasty during the cool fall nights.

C. Chambray Button Down

Chambray is a fantastic material to bring with you for fall.  You can opt for a light or heavier chambray shirt depending on temperature and they look great dressed up or dressed down.  

D. Blazer

Blazers are classic and can be worn casual with jeans or dressed up.  Versatility is key.  Plus the blazer can be worn over the chambray, your classic button down, or your fleece sweater.  

E. Bowtie

Honestly, you should probably always travel with a bowtie but I love them for fall.  They also will look great with your blazer and bowties really work with the chambray button down as well, especially when you bring one with a pattern.  

Shop Fall! Jeans, Medium Weight Sweater, Chambray Button Down, Blazer, and Bowtie

Winter Packing List Add-ons

Winter in Barcelona can range from mild to freezing.  It all just depends on your luck.  It still is a Mediterranean climate though so you don’t have to worry about snow (which is a relief because we DO NOT know how to dress for snow – that whole being Californian and never living in the snow thing…)  Once again layers are going to come into play with your packing list for winter.

Women’s Winter Packing List

A. Leather Jacket

I never travel without a leather jacket in winter.  It is my winter staple.  They are durable, waterproof and stylish.  What more can you want out of a winter coat?  Also, you definitely want to invest in a real leather jacket.  It makes a world of difference and will last you forever!

B. Peacoat

Do you want a little more warmth?  On the days that a leather coat doesn’t cut it and the weather is frigid I go straight for a wool peacoat.  To be honest half my closet at home is peacoats and trench coats.  I love my coats!  I love bundling up in a peacoat and it is the perfect stylish coat for Barcelona especially if it comes in red!

C. Heavy Sweater

It is all about heavy layers for your winter packing list and you will definitely want to bring a heavy sweater with you.  Look for one that is comfy and cozy and will work well with jeans and your jackets.  

D. Hat

A hat is essential for winter wear especially if you hate umbrellas as much as I do.  And I love hats.  I always like to travel with a couple although they can be hard to pack.  The best idea though is to wear your hat on the plane and then you don’t have to worry about packing it!

E. Winter Dress

A cozy winter dress is exactly what the doctor ordered for your winter Barcelona packing list!  There is nothing like being comfy and cozy in a nice winter dress with a glass of a deep inky red wine from Prìorat.  I can picture it now!  

F. Shoes: Rain Boots

If it rains you are going to want rain boots.  Barcelona is full of cobblestone streets especially in the older districts and that can mean a lot of puddles.  Stay dry with a stylish pair of rain boots! 

Shop Winter! Leather Jacket, Peacoat, Heavy Sweater, Hat, Winter Dress, Rain Boots

Men’s Winter Packing List

A. Long Sleeve Shirt

I’m all about layers when it comes to the cold winter months, you could even call me layer obsessed. I make sure I have some kind of long sleeve shirt that I can wear under the rest of my clothing.  I personally would suggest the wonderful IPoA long sleeve tee for your packing list.

B. Sweater

Can you tell that I love fleeces and sweaters? Well, I love them! Because they are a stylish alternative to a big puffy jacket. You can dress them up and if you get a good wool one then you are golden and it will last you years.

C. Overcoat

Our third and final layer is a nice overcoat. I prefer a long overcoat but even a short overcoat would work. Layer this on top of what you are already wearing and it will keep you nice and warm even on rainy winter days.

D. Scarf

Invest in a nice big winter scarf that you can wrap around your face before you head to Barcelona and it will protect you on those chilly, windy Barcelona nights!  Plus you will look just like a local.  

E. Beanie and Gloves

There is something about the comforts of a quality warm beanie. I have been known to sport one all year round and they are the perfect hat for winter.  Plus they are super easy to throw into your bag!  I also am all about getting a nice pair of gloves.  Not snow gloves but just a nice pair that will keep your hands warm, especially leather!  

Shop Winter! Long Sleeve T-Shirt, Sweater, Overcoat, Scarf, Beanie and Gloves

Now you should be all ready to pack for your trip to Barcelona during any season with this ultimate packing list! Barcelona is an amazing city and has so much to offer. Don’t let your trip be ruined because you packed the wrong clothes. We both suggest looking at the weather before going anywhere so that you know what to expect. Also, pack a couple outfits for each extreme just in case. It’s something that I have always believed in doing.  

 
I hope that you enjoyed this ultimate Barcelona packing list. If you guys enjoyed it please let us know in the comments below. If you have something add let us know!

Also, don’t forget to check out and pick up a copy of our 200-page culinary guidebook “Eat Local in Barcelona.” It has everything you need to eat like a local and never have a bad meal in Barcelona!

Read On to Read the Rest of the Series!

Top Tips for First Time Visitors to Barcelona

Ultimate Barcelona Packing List – You’re Here! 

Unique Things to Do in Barcelona 

Classic Old School Barcelona Restaurants

Top Modern Barcelona Restaurants

Eat Local in El Born

Barcelona’s Transport System

Drink Local in Barcelona 

What is the One Quintessential Barcelona Thing You Have to Do?

 

Heading to Barcelona soon?  Don’t forget to buy travel insurance!  Sure you may not use it but its always good to have.  We recommend World Nomads which we have been using for years and have always made us feel secure as we travel around the world!

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Ashley

Ashley is a passionate traveler and all around geek who loves to nerd out over ancient ruins. Her passion for history and art drives her to explore the hidden depths of a culture and share them through her photography and writing.