Packing to Move to Spain? Here's What to Bring

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If you’re getting ready to move to Spain, whether for work, study, or adventure, congratulations! Six years ago I was in your shoes as I was preparing to move to Spain after over a decade living in the UK, and this was not my first move to a new country. So I’ve become something of a packing expert, especially when it comes to long-term stays. Whether you're moving for a few months or a year, packing efficiently and thoughtfully can make all the difference.

Here’s my advice on what you need to know to pack smart for your move to Spain:

What to pack to live in Spain?

It’s easy to assume that Spain is warm year-round, but the climate varies significantly depending on the region. So here are some general tips you will need to tailor based on your destination.

  • Layering is essential: Spain can get hot in the summer and chilly in the winter even in places like Barcelona. As I write this article it’s the end of September, and the weather has been pretty weird, with several days of rain followed by warmer days. That’s why no matter where you plan to move in Spain lightweight layers like T-shirts, long-sleeve shirts, and sweaters will help you adapt to the changing temperatures.

  • Rain gear is a must: If you’re heading to the northern parts of Spain (like Galicia or the Basque Country), it’s best to bring an umbrella and a rain jacket. These areas see more rain than southern Spain.

  • Comfortable shoes: Spain’s cities are very walkable. Invest in a comfortable pair of shoes that you can wear for exploring, walking to work, or navigating the city.

  • Warm coat for winter: If you're moving to a place like Madrid or a northern city like Bilbao, pack a good winter coat. The temperatures can drop significantly in winter. The picture below is me in Madrid in January, it was pretty cold, I wish I had brought a warmer jacket at the time!

Extra Items to Bring to Pack Smart:

  • Packing cubes: Great for keeping your luggage organized and maximizing space.

  • Shrink-wrap bags: Perfect for compressing bulky clothing, saving space in your suitcase.

Packing List of Items to Bring to Move to Spain

Carry-On Items

  • Passport

  • Second form of ID

  • Computer & Charger

  • Phone & Charger

  • Headphones

  • Downloaded movies

  • Eye Mask & Earplugs

  • Face Lotion

  • Toothbrush & Toothpaste

  • Spare Outfit

  • Hand sanitizer

  • Prescription Meds (it is EXTREMELY difficult to get prescription meds in Europe, so stock up before you leave!)

  • Cash & Credit cards

  • Makeup/ Face wipes

  • Socks for comfort

Suitcase Items

  • 1-2 large suitcases

  • 1 carry-on luggage (for weekend trips)

  • 1 bagpack

Bottoms

  • 2 pairs of jeans

  • 3 pairs of "fun" daytime pants

  • 3 going-out pants

  • 2 pairs of shorts

  • 2 skirts

  • 3 leggings

  • 2 pairs of wearable sweatpants

  • 1 pair of "biker" workout shorts

Tops

  • 1 black/1 white turtleneck

  • 2 white tank tops

  • 3 simple long-sleeve shirts

  • 4 T-shirts

  • 10 going-out tops (flimsy, lightweight tops that don't take up much space)

Sweaters/Outerwear

  • 1 zip-up hoodie

  • 2 casual hoodies (plain)

  • 1 fun knit sweater

  • 1 jean jacket

  • 1 puffer/raincoat

  • 1 leather/faux leather jacket (for going out)

  • 1 "nicer" jacket (trench, blazer, colored puffer, bomber)

Makeup/Beauty

  • Face lotion (buy body lotion locally if needed)

  • Face wash

  • Basic makeup + one fun eyeshadow palette

  • 6 makeup brushes & beauty blender

  • Makeup remover and/or wipes

  • Chargers for electronics

  • Converter (multi-use for global travel)

  • Feminine hygiene products (you can buy locally, but bring to feel prepared)

  • Hairbrush

Shoes

  • 1 pair of black boots (e.g., Doc Martens)

  • 1 pair of sneakers

  • 1 pair of booties or going-out shoes

  • 1 pair of sandals

  • Optional: 1 pair of nicer heels (if space allows)

Accessories

  • 1 scarf (doubles as a blanket for flights)

  • 1 case for jewelry

  • 1 cross-body bag (e.g., fanny pack)

  • 1 small purse with a zipper

  • 1 backpack or tote bag

  • 1 silky scarf (you can buy more abroad)

Underwear/Socks

  • Bring extra underwear (especially if unsure of washer/dryer availability)

  • Bras (consider a nude strapless bra and bralettes for comfort)

  • Socks (bring plenty to avoid losing pairs)

  • 3 bathing suits (may vary based on climate)

Workout Gear

  • Sports bras, workout tanks, etc.

Things Not to Bring to Move to Spain

Think of your move to Spain as an opporunity to start fresh. Try to only bring things that are essentials, and either donate, sell, or throw things that get in the way. Trust me, at first it is hard be you will save a lot of money and feel so much lighter afterwards, especially if you are a self confessed hoarder like me!

  • Too many clothes: Make sure to facture in the fact that you will probably end up bying a lot of things in Spain, so don’t bother bringing too many clothes.

  • Large volumes of books: They are heavy and take up a lot of space. Bring an e-reader or just a couple of favorites, and buy books locally or digitally.

  • Furniture and large decorative items: This will save you a lot of money in shipping cost! It’s better to buy what you need locally.

  • Large stock of shampoos, soaps, etc.: All these are readily available in Spain. Bring just enough for the first few weeks.

  • Non-compatible electronics: Spain uses 220V, so if your hairdryer or electronics aren’t dual-voltage, they won’t work properly. Buy these items locally to avoid damaging them.

  • Packaged food, spices, and snacks: While bringing some comfort foods is fine, avoid packing large amounts.

  • Excessive cash: It’s safer to bring limited amounts and use bank transfers or local ATMs.

  • Specialty appliances: Your new place likely comes with kitchen basics, and you can buy any additional gadgets you need locally. Don’t bring coffee makers, toasters, or blenders even you love the one you own at the moment.

Documents Required for Spain Visa

When you arrive at the airport in Spain you will be required to show your documentation proving your Spanish visa is in order so make sure to have it all at hand, as well as any additional important documents you will need whilst living in Spain.

  • Passport and visa: Make multiple photocopies and store them in different places for safekeeping.

  • Health insurance information: Whether it’s through international coverage or a local provider, ensure you have proof of insurance.

  • Driver's license: If you plan on renting or driving a car in Spain.

  • Copies of important documents: Bring extra copies of your visa, passport, and any official documents.

📜 Living in Spain Planning Guide 📜

Before Moving to Spain

🔍 Research the visa process, residence permits, and other essential documentation early on.

💡 Did you know it’s mandatory to have official documents translated by a sworn translator? Consider hiring a translation service like Translyt for handling any official documents.

💡 Important: If you're moving from a non-European country, private health insurance is required for your visa application.

🧑‍⚕️ Finalize your local health insurance plan with Innoinsure for comprehensive coverage, or opt for the digital insurance services of Feather or ASSSA.

If you are a digital nomad or need travel insurance, SafetyWing provides flexible coverage for individuals living abroad.

🐕 If your pets have joined you, use Petplan for their health insurance and well-being.

Once in Spain

🏠 Use platforms like Spotahome get 15% off with code: CTSPAIN15 or Flatio to find your new home in Spain. They offer verified listings and short- to long-term rental options.

Are you on a tight budget? Check out Trusted Housesitters for free accommodation in exchange for pet sitting (Get 12% off annual memberships with code 12TRUST).

💸 Money Transfers: Set up a reliable currency exchange and transfer service like XE Money Transfer to avoid high banking fees when transferring funds internationally.

🚗 Need a rental car? Use DiscoverCars to easily compare and find the best deals for car rentals in Spain.

💡 Can you live and work in Spain without speaking Spanish?

The answer is YES! But learning Spanish will make your life so much easier. Start learning Spanish using Preply’s language tutor to learn the basics, and expect to see massive improvements within the first few months.

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Laetitia woue

Laetitia is the author of Coming to Spain and has been living in Spain for over six years. She is passionate about traveling throughout Spain and helping others overcome their limiting beliefs to achieve their dream of moving to Spain. Through her writing and resources, she provides practical advice and insights to support and guide individuals in making their dream of living in Spain a reality.

Item Quantity Pack in Item Type
Passport 1 Carry-on Important Documents
Second form of ID 1 Carry-on Important Documents
Laptop and Charger 1 Carry-on Electronics
Phone and Charger 1 Carry-on Electronics
Headphones 1 Carry-on Electronics
Downloaded Movies Pre-download Carry-on Entertainment
Eye Mask and Earplugs 1 Carry-on Travel Accessories
Face Lotion 1 Carry-on Personal Care
Toothbrush and Toothpaste 1 Carry-on Personal Care
Spare Outfit 1 Carry-on Clothing
Hand Sanitizer 1 Carry-on Personal Care
Prescription Medications Enough for duration Carry-on Personal Care
Cash and Credit Cards 1 set Carry-on Important Documents
Makeup/ Face Wipes 1 pack Carry-on Personal Care
Fuzzy Socks 1 pair Carry-on Comfort
2 Pairs of Jeans 2 Suitcase Clothing
3 Pairs of Daytime Pants 3 Suitcase Clothing
3 Pairs of Going Out Pants 3 Suitcase Clothing
2 Pairs of Shorts 2 Suitcase Clothing
2 Skirts 2 Suitcase Clothing
3 Leggings 3 Suitcase Clothing
2 Wearable Sweatpants 2 Suitcase Clothing
1 Pair of Workout Shorts 1 Suitcase Clothing
1 Black HeatTech Turtleneck 1 Suitcase Clothing
1 White HeatTech Turtleneck 1 Suitcase Clothing
2 White Tank Tops 2 Suitcase Clothing
3 Simple Long Sleeves 3 Suitcase Clothing
4 Tee Shirts 4 Suitcase Clothing
10 Going Out Tops 10 Suitcase Clothing
1 Zip-up Hoodie 1 Suitcase Clothing
2 Casual Hoodies 2 Suitcase Clothing
1 Fun Knit Sweater 1 Suitcase Clothing
1 Jean Jacket 1 Suitcase Clothing
1 Puffer/Raincoat 1 Suitcase Clothing
1 Leather Jacket 1 Suitcase Clothing
1 Nicer Jacket (Blazer, Trench, etc.) 1 Suitcase Clothing
Basic Makeup Essentials Suitcase Personal Care
Makeup Brushes and Beauty Blender 6 brushes Suitcase Personal Care
Chargers for Electronics All necessary Suitcase Electronics
Converter 1 Suitcase Electronics
Nail Clipper, Razor, Tweezer All necessary Suitcase Personal Care
Feminine Hygiene Products All necessary Suitcase Personal Care
Hair Brush 1