Greece in the summertime is hard to match. Crystal-clear water, black-sand beaches, friendly locals, fine wine, and world-class cuisine await you in this Mediterranean paradise.
To make your trip as carefree and fun as possible, you must pack the right things without weighing down your bags with unnecessary items. Here are six essentials to put in your suitcase before you embark on your vacation to Greece.
- Sun Protection
The Greek islands are hot and sunny in the summer months. Whether you’re soaking up the rays onboard a Greece cruise or hiking to view the ancient ruins, you will need plenty of protection from the sun.
Sunscreen is a must-have. A broad-spectrum sunscreen protects from UVA and UVB rays. While all sunscreens must protect you from UVB rays, UVA rays are also associated with skin cancer. Therefore, it’s best to have a product that guards against both types. Choose an SPF of 30 or higher.
Sunglasses shield your eyes from the harsh glare of the sea and bright colors throughout the islands. Choose lenses with UV protection, and feel free to have fun with the shape and style. You can also benefit from wearing a broad-brimmed hat to protect your face and neck from the hot sun.
- Comfortable Shoes
You’ll spend much time strolling the beaches, hiking through ancient architecture and walking along cobblestone streets. Fancy, uncomfortable or high-heeled shoes won’t do much good in Greece and probably won’t leave your suitcase.
Choose cool and comfortable footwear that provides support during long days on your feet. You can find lots of stylish and supportive sandals, so you can look and feel good.
- Lightweight Clothing
You can skip the heavy jeans and bulky sweatshirts on a summertime excursion to Greece. Your best bet for comfort is in lightweight clothing. Think tank tops, linen shirts and pants, chinos, and summer dresses.
A light wrap or shawl is good if you are out on a chilly evening or need to protect your shoulders after too much sun. A lightweight shirt with long sleeves and a jacket are suitable for breezy evenings. They can also dress up an outfit for an upscale dinner.
- Swimwear
No trip or cruise to Greece would be complete without a visit to the beach. Bring along your favorite suit (or two). A stylish coverup can transition you from water to land. Don’t forget swim shoes or flip-flops to slip on when you leave the water. If you have room in your suitcase, pack a favorite beach towel.
- Day Bag
You may be out and about all day after leaving your cabin or hotel. A comfortable day bag can hold your necessities, saving you from running back for this or that. Choose one with security features such as RFID-blocking slots and compartment locks. A cross-body bag helps balance the weight while keeping it secure.
Features such as small pockets, a water-bottle holder and a place for your phone and sunglasses make it easy to pack and carry your day bag — plus, you won’t waste time digging for your wallet or room key.
- Camera and Charger
You’ll take plenty of pictures during your Greece vacation, so be sure you have the right equipment. Whether packing a professional camera or using your phone, throw a charger or extra camera battery in your bag. You’ll be glad to have them if you drain your battery during a long day of sightseeing. Having a charger for your phone is a safety measure, too. It prevents you from getting caught somewhere with a dead phone.
Your summertime excursion to Greece will be a fun-filled, adventurous trip that will create lifetime memories. Enjoy all that this beautiful Mediterranean country has to offer. Packing the essentials can save you from trying to buy them once you arrive. It also gives you more free time to enjoy Greece’s sights, sounds and people.