Your Go-To Spain Study Abroad Packing List for Every Season

Excited to study abroad in Spain, but less excited to pack for your international adventure? We know the feeling, which is why we’ve put together a CIEE-approved, go-to study abroad packing list for Spain. We’ve got you covered no matter when or where you travel throughout Spain with CIEE Study Abroad!  

Check out our ultimate study abroad packing checklist:

Your All-Season Essentials  

Whether you plan to live and learn in Spain during the winter, spring, summer, or fall, the following items are a must.

In fact, we recommend you safely pack these essentials in your carry-on to ensure they arrive with you in Spain: 

• Passport + a photocopy (just in case) 
• Visa + a photocopy  
• A second form of valid ID (e.g., driver’s license or government-issued ID) 
• Cash (Spain uses the Euro) and a credit card accepted in Spain 
• Plane tickets  
• Proof of health insurance 
• Proof of CIEE enrollment 
• Prescription medications, enough for the stay if possible 
• Preferred over-the-counter medications 
• Prescription eyewear 
• A reusable water bottle that you can fill up at the airport and use when on the go in Spain 

You will also be glad you packed: 

• Comfortable walking shoes, ideally closed-toe and waterproof 
• Camera to capture Spain in high-def 
• Adapters to charge your current tech in Spain’s electrical outlets 

The southern regions of Spain, such as Andalusia, have a Mediterranean climate and tend to be milder during the winter with temperatures averaging around 14°C (57°F) in cities like Seville or Malaga. However, temperatures can drop to around 8°C (46°F) at night.  

Your wintertime Spain study abroad packing list should ideally include: 

• Warm clothing: Spain can be quite chilly in the winter, especially in the evenings and early mornings, so pack warm layers such as sweaters, long-sleeve shirts, thermals, a coat or jacket, as well as a scarf, gloves, and a hat. 
• Rain gear: Winter can get rainy, so pack an umbrella or a waterproof jacket with a hood. 
• Swimwear: The Mediterranean region of Spain is known for its beaches and warm weather, even in the winter. If you plan on visiting the beach during your stay, you’ll want to pack a swimsuit. Toss in a towel, too. 
• Sunscreen: The sun shines on Spain in all seasons, so don’t forget to protect your skin. 

Your Spring Style 

If you’ll be participating in one of CIEE Spain’s spring programs, we’ve got good news: though the springtime weather varies by region, it’s generally pleasant with mild temperatures and increasing daylight hours.  

Your springtime Spain study abroad packing list should feature: 

• Light clothing: Spring in Spain is generally mild but can get warm during the day, so pack light layers such as t-shirts, shorts, and dresses. 
• Rain gear: Expect unexpected rain showers. Bring a lightweight rain jacket and an umbrella. 
• Swimwear: If you plan on visiting the beach during your stay – and we definitely recommend that you do – then pack a swimsuit. 
• Sunscreen: Protect your skin while enjoying Spain’s beautiful spring. Bring sunscreen. 
• Insect repellent: With spring comes bugs, so it's good to have insect repellent on hand for your outdoor excursions. 

Your Summer Selection 

If you’ll be attending one of our highly popular summer programs, then lucky you! 

Your summertime Spain study abroad packing list should include: 

• Light clothing: Lightweight clothing such as t-shirts, shorts, and dresses are perfect for the hot summer days. Pack breathable, light-colored clothes suitable for the heat. 
• Swimwear: Will you be visiting the beach? Of course, you will! Don’t forget your favorite swimsuit and beach towel. 
• Sun hat and sunglasses: Spain’s summer sun can be intense, so pack a hat and sunglasses to protect your face and eyes. 
• Sunscreen: You will likely spend a lot of time in the beautiful summer sun, so bring sunscreen to stay skin-safe.  
• A small fan or a portable USB-powered fan: Some spots may not have air conditioning, but how nice it will feel to have a reliable fan to cool yourself? 

Your Fall Fit 

If you’re taking advantage of one of our fall programs, expect Spain’s weather to be generally mild and pleasant, with temperatures gradually cooling down as the season progresses.  

Your fall Spain study abroad packing list should ideally feature: 

• Layered clothing: Spain’s weather in the fall can vary quite a bit, so it's important to have layers. Pack items like a light jacket, sweater, long-sleeve shirts, and pants. 
• Rain gear: The occasional rain shower can pop up this time of year, so pack a lightweight rain jacket and an umbrella. 
• Swimwear: You can hit Spain’s beaches with gusto, even in the fall. So, bring a swimsuit and beach towel. 
• Sunscreen: You will likely spend a good amount of time outdoors, whether walking in the city or out on an excursion. Bring sunscreen to avoid getting burned. 

Start packing for Spain! 

With this Spain study abroad packing list handy, you’re ready to pack up for the experience of a lifetime!