Have you already packed your suitcase for Germany? Stop for a minute and check out this helpful packing list that includes must-have travel items for your trip to Germany. For rain, for sun, for snow, for Oktoberfest, for different seasons in Germany, sometimes all in one day, this Germany packing list is an essential element in planning your trip to Germany.
You can also print this list and use it while packing, just cross out the listed items after packing. And don’t worry, if you forget something at home, you will be able to buy most of your items in the many shops in Germany (as well as unique gifts to take home).
Travel basics:
- Airline Tickets – If you have e-tickets, please print the email confirmation)
- Passport : must be valid for 6 months after the date of entry)
- Wallet – While any old wallet will work, many people are more comfortable with money belts, especially in the high season (summer and during Christmas markets) when the possibility of petty theft is greatest
- Cash – ideally euros, you don’t need much to get started. Just enough to buy a ride and some snacks before finding a Geldautomats (or ATM) for the lowest fees
- Smartphone – This indispensable item has become everything for many travelers: map, camera, guidebook, wallet, etc. Take into account roaming charges with your company and find out if it is necessary to unlock it to use a foreign SIM card (the best solution for a long stay in Germany). Wi-Fi is plentiful in Germany, although even more limited than in places like the United States.
- Driver’s license (if you want to rent a car)
- Contact Numbers – Keep your emergency numbers somewhere outside of your wallet. Include personal contacts in your country of origin, number of your banking institutions, government agencies such as embassies, etc. This can be invaluable in the event of loss or theft of your credit card / passport
- Copy of medical history and prescription for any medications you are transporting – this can help if you have any questions at customs
- Medicines – Although most of the things you leave can be bought in Germany, you should know that some common over-the-counter products are not available. You need to go to the pharmacy for things as simple as antacids and they will probably carry different brands that you are used to. If there’s something you can’t live without, bring it with you.
- Toiletries : toothbrush, toothpaste, lotions, shampoo, shower gel, razor, shaving cream, etc.
- Phrasebook : While the number of people who speak English is always increasing and very high in places like Berlin, it is always better to know a few key phrases in German
- Maps
- Adapters: Electrical plugs in Germany are one of two types of European standard electrical plugs: Europlug “Type C” and Schuko “Type E” and “Type F”. Also note that the voltage is higher than North America at 220-240 volts
- Camera
- Batteries
- Charger
It is always good to have:
- Travel pillow
- Small first aid kit
- Sewing kit
- Sunglasses
- Ear plugs
- Wrinkle-free spray
- Mascara
- Travel alarm clock
- Converter
- Diary / Notebook / Blog
What clothes to pack for Germany
Summer or winter, rain or shine – be sure to pack the following essential clothing for your trip to Germany:
- Good Walking Shoes : While that seems to translate into sneakers for most Americans, keep in mind that most Europeans prefer real shoes and boots. For those who wear heels, keep in mind that the country’s many cobbled streets make such footwear a challenge.
- Layers – The weather in Germany can change quite quickly.
- Raincoat or umbrella
- Scarf : Men and women wear scarves all year round, especially in the fall and winter.
- Sunglasses
Packing list for German winters
German winters can be very cold with temperatures ranging between 33 F and 45 F. Prepare for snow, rain, hail, and freezing winds:
- Warm sweaters
- Winter jacket
- Gloves
- Scarf
- Boots – tough enough to withstand icy conditions
- Hand warmers
- Hat / cap : something that covers your ears
- Warm socks
- Long johns
Packing list for German summers
On the other hand, German summers can be quite hot. Temperatures range from 68 F to 86 F, but it can also be rainy and cool. Be sure to pack the following:
- T-shirts / Tank tops
- Skirts / Shorts
- Light sweaters
- Light raincoat
- Long pants / jeans
- Swimsuit
- Flip flops
- Sneakers
- Sun hat
- Sunscreen
Oktoberfest packing list
Oktoberfest is best when you wear the piece. Find out where to buy Tracht (traditional clothing) and what to wear:
Lederhosen : This actually only refers to traditional Bavarian pants, but the whole ensemble usually includes a white or colorful plaid shirt with sturdy buttons, knitted socks up to the knee, Haferlshuhe that ties the side, and even a jacket and hat.
Dirndls : skirt ( Rock ), bodice ( Mieder ), apron ( Schürze ) and blouse ( Bluse ) in traditional colors ranging from black to blue to soft pink with a charming Edelweiß (alpine flower) decoration
