What To Wear In Spain (In Every Season)

What you wear during your trip to Spain is going to vary dramatically based on two key factors;

• Where in Spain you’re going
• When you’re going to Spain

What you’ll wear in Madrid in the summer months, for example, is very different to what you’ll wear in Madrid in winter and what you wear in Madrid in winter is different again to what you’ll wear if you’re visiting the Canary Islands in winter.

As such we’ve broken down each of the items you’ll want to consider packing and subsequently wearing below, with notes to help guide you based on those two factors to ensure that you’re packing light but packing everything you’re likely to need for an incredible Spanish getaway.

Shorts & Skirts

If you’re visiting mainland Spain in summer, then a pair of shorts or a skirt is likely going to be essential.

However, if you’re visiting mainland Spain in spring or autumn, then a pair of shorts or a skirt is going to be more of a personal choice based on the expected weather conditions during your trip.

Meanwhile, if you’re visiting the Canary Islands then we’d recommend packing a pair of shorts or skirts regardless of when you’re travelling.

That’s because the Canary Islands although geo-politically part of Spain, are actually closer to Africa and subsequently have higher year-round temperatures.

For the majority, we personally both prefer to wear shorts since they are practical for both daytime and evening activities.

We look for a pair that’s got good pockets (ideally with zips) so we can store a bank card and our mobile phone in them safely and access them quickly as and when required.

While denim shorts are an option, they aren’t ideal if you get caught in the rain (which can happen in the Spring and Fall months) since they take a long time to dry.

Instead, we look for a pair made of cotton, ideally with some stretch in the waist (especially if you’re staying all-inclusive).

🧍‍♂️Best choice for men: These Wrangler Classic Cargo Shorts (buy it on Amazon) are ideal for men and come in a range of colours.

🧍‍♀️Best choice for women: These leightweight casual drawstring shorts (buy it on Amazon) are perfect for women.

Trousers & Leggings

It’s a good idea to pack a pair of trousers or leggings regardless of both when and where you’re going in Spain.

However, what type of trousers you choose will be more dependent on those factors.

For example, if you’re looking to wear trousers during the daytime in the summer then we recommend choosing a lightweight, loose fabric such as linen or cotton.

These fabrics will help keep you cool and are perfect for sightseeing or spending time outdoors.

However, if you’re visiting Spain during the cooler months or are looking to wear your trousers in the evenings, then you may want to look for a pair that are typically made from thicker fabrics such as; denim jeans, cargo pants or even joggers.

As well as the fabric choice, you’ll also want to consider the trouser style.

For example, if you’re planning on doing a lot of hiking or sightseeing then you’ll likely want to look for breathable and durable trousers that have ample pocket space.

However, if you’re planning on spending time in a more formal setting, such as restaurants or at the theatre, then you’ll want to go for more fitted options such as skinny jeans or smart trousers.

🧍‍♂️Best choice for men: These affordable athletic fit pants (buy it on Amazon) are ideal for men and come in a range of colours.

🧍‍♀️Best choice for women: These high wasited leggings with pockets (buy it on Amazon) are perfect for exploring the city streets.

T-Shirts

T-shirts are a great base layer to pack for your trip to Spain, however, the type of t-shirt may vary depending on the weather and the activities you will be participating in.

For summer trips, we recommend short-sleeved tops. These can be worn on their own or layered under a light cardigan for added warmth when required.

Meanwhile, for winter trips, we recommend packing a mix of long-sleeved and short-sleeved tops since the weather will likely be significantly milder.

🧍‍♂️Best choice for men: These t-shirts (buy it on Amazon) are affordable and available in a variety of colours and necklines depening on your needs.

🧍‍♀️Best choice for women: This casual loose fit v-neck top (buy it on Amazon) is available in a wide range of colours.

Tank Tops

Tank tops are a fantastic choice if you’re visiting mainland Spain in the summer months when the average temperatures are higher.

However, they can also be a great option to wear in the Canary Islands such as Lanzarote and Grand Canaria year-round (since these islands have a higher climate when compared to mainland Spain).

Tank tops are a comfortable and stylish way to stay cool and comfortable in the heat, and they can be easily paired with shorts, skirts, or skirts for a variety of casual, relaxed looks.

However, tank tops and short sleeve t-shirts also come with more responsibility in the sun when compared to t-shirts since the skin on your shoulders is particularly vulnerable to sun exposure.

We, therefore, recommend that you pack a high-factor sunscreen and apply it to your body (especially to your shoulders) regularly.

It’s also important to note that if you’re visiting selected religious sites while in Spain, you maybe asked to cover your shoulders in order to enter.

As such it’s a good idea to either pack a t-shirt or research what you’re doing / where you’re going in advance.

🧍‍♂️Best choice for men: This affordable Hanes vest (buy it on Amazon) is simple, stylish and comes in a range of colours.

🧍‍♀️Best choice for women: This casual loose fit tank top (buy it on Amazon) can be dressed up or down depending on the occation.

Button Up Shirt / Blouse

Alongside t-shirts and vests, we also recommend packing at least one more formal shirt.

In most cases, this will come in the form of a button-up which can be paired with a skirt or a pair of trousers for more formal evenings.

Of course, button-up shirts are also a great choice for higher daytime temperatures too since they are frequently made of breathable, light materials.

🧍‍♂️Best choice for men: This casual linen short-sleeve shirt (buy it on Amazon) is simple, stylish and comes in a range of colours.

🧍‍♀️Best choice for women: This white classic-fit shirt (buy it on Amazon) is perfect for pairing with either a pair of jeans or a skirt.

Dresses, Jumpsuits & Playsuits

Dresses, jumpsuits, and playsuits are all great choices when visiting Spain for both daytime and evening wear, especially if you’re visiting during the warmer months.

These types of garments are versatile, comfortable, and stylish, and they can be easily dressed up or down to suit the occasion making them perfect for those travelling with hand luggage only.

During the daytime jumpsuits or playsuits are often practical and stylish choices for sightseeing, shopping, or heading to the beach.

However, we wouldn’t recommend them if you’re going to be taking part in any outdoor activities such as hiking.

These casual one-pieces are comfortable to wear in warm weather and can be easily paired with sandals or sneakers for a relaxed yet stylish look.

If you’re looking to wear these items in the daytime then we recommend looking for a lightweight and breathable fabric, such as linen or cotton, to help keep you cool and comfortable.

If you’re planning on dining out at a nice restaurant, attending a theatre performance, or going out for a night on the town, then dresses especially can be made more formal with the addition of heels and accessories to create a sophisticated, yet stylish look.

🧍‍♀️Best choice for women: This striped jumpsuit (buy it on Amazon) is perfect for a more casual look. Meanwhile this dress (buy it on Amazon) is perfect for a more formal evening out.

Jackets & Cardigans

Regardless of when you’re visiting Spain, it can often be a good idea to pack a light jacket or cardigan. The exact density and style of such will, however, likely depend on when you’re visiting the country and what you plan to experience while you’re there.

Spain can get quite chilly during the winter, especially in the more mountainous regions, so having a warm coat or jacket to layer is essential to stay cosy and warm.

We recommend looking for a jacket that is made from a thick and insulating fabric, such as wool or down, and that has a hood or other features that can help to protect you from any wind and / or rain.

Meanwhile, if you’re visiting Spain during the spring or fall, a light jacket or cardigan can be a good choice to keep you comfortable during the cooler evenings or when the weather is more variable.

These seasons can be a great time to visit Spain, as the daytime temperatures are often mild and there are fewer crowds when compared to the peak summer season.

A lightweight jacket or cardigan can be easily packed in your luggage and can provide just the right amount of warmth as and when you need it.

Even if you’re visiting Spain during the summer months, you may still want to pack a light jacket or cardigan, (especially if you’re heading out to the Canary Islands as the evenings there can be especially cool).

Even though the weather is generally warm and sunny in mainland Spain during the summer, the temperatures can drop significantly, so it’s a good idea to be prepared.

🧍‍♂️Best choice for men: This affordable Hanes pullover (buy it on Amazon) is simple, stylish and comes in a range of colours.

🧍‍♀️Best choice for women: This thin zip up jacket (buy it on Amazon) is ideal for throwing on over your outfit if it gets a little cold.

Footwear

When choosing what footwear to pack for your trip to Spain, it’s important to consider the type of holiday you’re going on and subsequently the activities you’ll be taking part in as well as the weather conditions you’ll likely be facing.

Whether you’re planning on doing a lot of walking, participating in outdoor activities, or just need comfortable shoes for sightseeing, there are a few key factors to consider when selecting the right pair of shoes for your trip.

One important factor to consider is the type of terrain you’ll be walking on.

If you’re visiting the major cities of Spain such as; Alicante, San Sebastian, Madrid or Barcelona then a pair of comfortable and stylish walking shoes may be a good choice.

We recommend looking for shoes with a sturdy and supportive soles, and that have ample cushioning to help reduce fatigue and keep your feet comfortable. Sneakers, loafers, and oxfords are all good options for city walking.

However, if you’re planning on participating in outdoor activities, such as hiking the Sierra Nevada then it’s important to choose a pair of sturdy and supportive hiking boots with good traction and ankle support.

If all you plan to do during your trip to Spain is head to the beach, then you’ll likely want to pack some sandals, flip flops and / or water shoes that are comfortable, durable, and easy to put on and take off along with a pair of trainers or more formal shoes for an evening.

🧍‍♂️Best choice for men: These Sketchers classic fit sneakers (buy it on Amazon) are both incredibly comfortable and stylish.

🧍‍♀️Best choice for women: These low-rise Converse (buy it on Amazon) are super comfortable and come in a range of colours.

Coat

Depending on the time of year and the region you’re visiting in Spain a coat can be a practical and necessary item to have in your luggage.

However, the type of coat you might need is likely going to vary depending on where in Spain you’re going and the region.

For example, if you’re visiting mainland Spain during the winter months then it’s a good idea to pack a heavy coat to keep you warm and cosy during your trip.

Spain can get quite chilly during the winter, especially in the more mountainous regions, as such having a warm coat is essential to stay comfortable and to protect you from the elements.

We recommend looking for a coat that is made from a thick and insulating fabric, such as wool or down, and that has a hood or other features to protect you from any wind and rain you might experience.

If on the other hand, you’re visiting Spain during the rainy season, it’s a good idea to pack a rain jacket to keep you dry.

A rain jacket is a lightweight and significantly more compact alternative to a heavy coat, and it can be easily packed in your luggage without taking up too much space.

We recommend looking for a rain jacket that is made from waterproof materials that are designed to keep you both dry and comfortable.

🧍‍♂️Best choice for men: This puffer coat (buy it on Amazon) is a great option if you're visiting Spain in winter. Meanwhile, this lightweight waterproof coat (buy it on Amazon) is perfect for rainy days.

🧍‍♀️Best choice for women: This puffer coat (buy it on Amazon) is a great option if you're visiting Spain in winter. Meanwhile, this lightweight waterproof coat (buy it on Amazon) is perfect for rainy days.

Hat

If you’re visiting mainland Spain in the summer months, or the Canary Islands at any time of the year, it’s a good idea to pack a sunhat to protect your head and face from the strong UV rays.

However, if you’re visiting mainland Spain in the winter months then it’s a good idea to pack a woolly hat instead. This will help to keep your head and ears warm as you continue to explore all that the country has to offer.

Spain can get quite chilly during the winter, especially in the more mountainous regions, so having a warm hat is essential to stay comfortable and cosy.

We recommend looking for a hat that is made from a thick and insulating fabric, such as wool or fleece, and that covers your ears to provide maximum warmth.

If however, you’re visiting Spain in the spring or fall, the weather can be more variable, so it’s a good idea to check the weather forecast before you travel to determine which type of hat to pack.

If it’s going to be warm and sunny, a sunhat may be a good choice, while if it’s going to be cooler and cloudy, a woolly hat may be more suitable.

🧍‍♂️Best choice for men: This sun hat (buy it on Amazon) is a fantastic choice for the summer. Meanwhile, this wooly hat (buy it on Amazon) is a great choice if you're visiting Spain during the colder months.

🧍‍♀️Best choice for women: This sun hat (buy it on Amazon) is a fantastic choice for the summer. Meanwhile, this wooly hat (buy it on Amazon) is a great choice if you're visiting Spain during the colder months.

Sunglasses

If you’re planning on visiting Spain during the warmer months when sunny days are more common then we highly recommend packing a pair of sunglasses.

However, even if you’re not visiting Spain in the summer it might still be worth adding sunglasses to your Spanish packing list.

That’s because Spain is known for its Mediterranean climate, which means that it experiences plenty of sunshine and warm temperatures throughout the year.

Having a pair of sunglasses can be a practical and stylish way to protect your eyes from the sun’s rays and keep you comfortable during your trip.

🧍‍♂️Best choice for men: These polarized sunglasses (buy it on Amazon) have a semi-rimless fram which is complimentary on most face shapes.

🧍‍♀️Best choice for women: These Ray-Ban aviator sunglasses (buy it on Amazon) have long been a statement piece and are available in three different colours.

Bathing Suit

A bathing suit is an essential item to include on your Spain packing list, especially if you’re planning on visiting any beach towns or spending time near the water.

Spain is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, and there will no doubt be many opportunities to enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and other water-based activities during your trip.

In addition to being practical, a bathing suit can also be a stylish and comfortable choice for warm weather.

🧍‍♂️Best choice for men: These mens beach shorts (buy it on Amazon) are available in a wide range of colours and are incredibly affordable.

🧍‍♀️Best choice for women: This stylish womens one piece (buy it on Amazon) is available in several colours and has adjustable straps for a comfortable fit.

Travel Bag

Alongside your traditional suitcase (unless flying hand luggage only) you’re also likely going to want a travel bag.

This could be either a small daypack, a backpack, a tote bag or even a fanny pack – which bag(s) is right for you will likely depend on what you’re doing during your trip.

What your travel bag contains will likely vary dramatically depending on where and when you’re visiting Spain, some of our go-to travel essentials include;

• Credit cards
• Travel insurance details
• First aid kit
• Mobile phone charger / power bank
• Camera
• Memory card
• Map
• Guide book
• Suncream

Of course, if you are flying carry-on only, then you’re going to want to be conscious of the airline’s requirements. As such you’ll likely want to unpack once you’ve arrived at your accommodation and then use that bag as your day bag to save you from wasting any space or weight on bringing another one.

On the other hand, if you’re bringing a suitcase then you’ll be able to bring one or more bags to suit your needs.

However, keep in mind that many of the historical cities within Spain will have a vast number of cobblestone streets that can make moving luggage incredibly difficult – as such taking a taxi from the airport (where applicable) can often be favourable over public transport in many cases.

🧍‍♂️Best choice for men: This crossbody bag (buy it on Amazon) comes in four different styles and is made from heavy duty fabric.

🧍‍♀️Best choice for women: This stylish backpack (buy it on Amazon) has four compartments and a USB charging port.

Scarf

If you’re visiting mainland Spain during the cooler months then a scarf can be a useful clothing accessory to help keep you warm.

Scarves can be worn around your neck, head, or shoulders to provide an extra layer of insulation and to protect against the cold.

Depending on what activities you’re planning on doing during your trip to Spain will likely depend on what type of scarf you want.

Wool and cashmere scarves are generally more expensive but are also very warm and durable making them a suitable choice for exploring the city.

Meanwhile, synthetic materials, such as acrylic or polyester, can be a more affordable option and are often treated with moisture-wicking or quick-drying properties given this they are great for hiking and outdoor adventures.

🧍‍♂️Best choice for men: This plaid scarf (buy it on Amazon) is available in a variety of different colours and is very affordable.

🧍‍♀️Best choice for women: This stylish scarf (buy it on Amazon) is available in multiple different colours and styles.

Gloves

If you are visiting mainland Spain in the winter months, it’s also a good idea to pack a pair of gloves to keep your hands warm and protected against the cold.

There are many different types of gloves to choose from including; leather, wool, and synthetic materials.

Leather gloves are generally more expensive but are also very durable and can be treated to be water-resistant.

Meanwhile, gloves made from wool are naturally insulating and can be warm even when wet.

Finally, synthetic materials, such as polyester or nylon, can be a more affordable option and are often treated with moisture-wicking or quick-drying properties to help keep your hands dry.

When packing gloves for a trip to mainland Spain in the winter, consider the type of activities you will be participating in and the weather conditions you will be facing.

A lightweight, versatile pair of gloves can be a good choice for everyday wear, while a heavier, more insulated pair of gloves may be more appropriate for colder, windier weather.

🧍‍♂️Best choice for men: These thin winter gloves (buy it on Amazon) allow you to keep warm and use your smart phone screen without removing them.

🧍‍♀️Best choice for women: These stylish gloves (buy it on Amazon) is available in multiple different colours and styles.