What to Pack for Barcelona: An Essential Style Guide to Look Like a Local

What to Pack for Barcelona…For all the Other Kids with the Pumped Up Kicks!

“What to pack for Barcelona?” is a tricky question for sure. And I’ll admit it I used to be one of those ladies who scoffed at fashion and thought that it was a superficial waste of time.

No Joke! I wouldn’t even worry about things to pack for Barcelona because my whole mantra was, “Well, they have stores there so who cares about packing and Barcelona fashion?”

That was until I realized that I didn’t dislike fashion. I disliked myself. Yup, My mind was blown. 

I started to see that fashion is a form of self-expression; the only way that people can judge you when they first meet you. Therefore why not dress well and make a good impression?

So if you’re planning a Barcelona itinerary, remember to try and blend in by dressing like a local. Sure you’ll get lost and look like a total tourist. But it doesn’t hurt to be an incognito tourist in the metro, where pickpockets are scoping out their next victim.

So read on to find out what is on my ultimate Barcelona packing list for women (my new best friend that I love so much because you’re actually reading my blog. Yup, these spirit fingers are for you)! You’ll figure out what you need to pack for Barcelona and how to look less like a tourist and more like a local.

This post may contain affiliate links. Please see my disclosure for more information. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases.

Just Don’t Let Online Shopping Lead to This!

What to Wear in Barcelona: 12 Essential Barcelona Travel Hacks

1. Backpack and Lock

A backpack with a lock may NOT win you any beauty contests, but who cares. Sometimes fashion takes a backseat to safety.

No Trust Me! I had my wallet stolen in Barcelona and it was a nightmare. Thank God I didn’t have all my cash and credit cards on me at the time, but it was still a very anti-fun experience.

Therefore heed my Barcelona travel tips and put a lock on your backpack, especially when walking through the metro alone and can’t really see who’s behind you.

And if you’re gonna use a lock, why not make it a fun? The one above is a combination lock while the one below is a cute elephant lock with a key. This one is fabulous if you don’t lose the key, which is something that I would totally do.

⭐️ Rating: 4/5 (344 Reviews) Price: $7.89 Details: Read more on Amazon!

Also Girl with the Passport travel fail 3,622: I wore a bright pink backpack that screamed out, “free money” to criminals.

That’s why I suggest a fashionable, neutral backpack that will make pickpockets assume you’re a super savvy local.

⭐️ Rating: 4.6/5 (18,609 Reviews) Price: $26.99 Details: Read more on Amazon!

PS: Why is it so difficult to find a cute, Anti-theft bag? They are all super ugly or make you look like a scared tourist. Lol. Like, come on?

This one is cute though. Plus, it’s waterproof and anti theft so a perfect travel carry on for your next trip to Barcelona. Use this when you are enjoying the best things to do in Barcelona on your own.

2. Comfortable Shoes

“I love getting blisters and watching my heels bleed!” said no one ever. Okay! This one is kind of obvious but I think the real challenge is finding a pair of comfortable shoes that don’t make you look like a tourist who’s wearing something that their orthopedist prescribed.

And unless you are older and have a back problem, velcro is not a good look. So what is the shoe solution?

⭐️ Rating: 4.4/5 (37,723 Reviews) Price: $20.99 Details: Read more on Amazon!

If you wanna rock the sneaker look, I am all about rocking the converse as you scope out all the free things to do in Barcelona. These sneaks are comfy, come in a ton of different colors, are fashionable, and easily slip on and off (perfect for slipping your shoes on and off at aiport security).

But what if you want something a little nicer? I totally get it. You’re wearing a dress and converse clearly won’t cut it. And heels are out because you’ll be doing a ton of walking through some of the best Barcelona Spain attractions.

That’s Where These Shoes Come in:

⭐️ Rating: 4.3/5 (3,698 Reviews) Price: $40 Details: Read more on Amazon!

They have it all! They are cute, comfy, available in an assortment of colors, and are pretty reasonably priced too. Seriously some of the best shoes for Barcelona.

3. Pack an Umbrella or Raincoat, and Backpack Cover When Visiting Barcelona in Autumn and Spring

Not sure What to Pack for Barcelona in October? Or What to Pack for Barcelona in April? That’s Okay. All you need to now is that Autumn and Spring can be rather rainy in Barcelona. Therefore, definitely pack some rain gear so that all your electronics don’t shrivel up and die during a freak rainstorm.

Typically, I pack a raincoat and backpack cover since umbrellas are annoying. Not only do I have the propensity to whack people on the face with them,  but when it’s windy, they flip inside out and become totally useless.

That’s Why:

⭐️ Rating: 4.4/5 (6,543 Reviews) Price: $46.99 Details: Read more on Amazon!

This raincoat is my jam and will leave you singing in the rain. Okay, not really but at least you’ll look nice while trudging through the rain in Barcelona.

PS: This coat looks better in a darker color but of course, Amazon picks the gross colors. And don’t forget your backpack rain cover since your raincoat obviously won;t protect your backpack.

4. Shorts But Only at the Beach

Who wears short shorts? You may wear short shorts…just not outside of Barcelona Spain beaches. I have no clue why but locals have an aversion to shorts and liberal forms of  dress in general, so if you’re gonna wear shorts save them for the beach, where the general rule of thumb is the less clothes the better.

But What if it’s Insanely Hot Out and You Feel Like You’re Gonna Melt?

⭐️ Rating: 4/5 (11,612 Reviews) Price: $44.99 Details: Read more on Amazon!

Then this dress is where it’s at! It’s long and flowy and perfect for girls of any size and shape. Plus, the length gives it a more modest feel, perfect for the city of Barcelona.

Really want to blend in with the locals? The get a dress with more neutral tones since locals tend to avoid vibrant colors and patterns.

Bonus (Because this dress is perfect for some of the best restaurants in Barcelona Spain): I’ll put this dress on my Barcelona packing list too since it looks great and costs $16! Amazing right? I’ve worn this dress all over my Instagram feed and have gotten a ton of compliments.

⭐️ Rating: /5 ( Reviews) Price: $ Details: Read more on Amazon!

FYI: This isn’t my exact dress, because Amazon was being grumpy, but this one is super cute too. My dress has sleeves and a skirt that is white with a lemon pattern. But this one is the same brand and so lovely that I might buy this one too!

Pack a Nice Skirt Too!

⭐️ Rating: 4.2/5 (8,629 Reviews) Price: $14.99 Details: Read more on Amazon!

Not only is this skirt super comfy, but it’s fun and looks great too, which is important since Barcelona is a very fashionable city. That’s why you don’t see too many people schlubbing it up in a ratty pair of sweatpants.

PS: In case it gets chilly, I always pack a pair of leggings that I can wear under my dress, as well as a nice cardigan, just in case the Barcelona Spain weather gets chilly.

5. Cover Up in Town but Flaunt it at the Beach

While shorts and revealing clothes are a fashion faux pas in the city: The beach is a totally different story. The dress code here is generally the more revealing the better.

However I wouldn’t feel comfortable rocking a thong bikini. But you may be totally different. So go ahead and wear whatever makes you feel beautiful.

Flaunt what your mama gave you! Because It’s not about what other people think but about how you feel about yourself. So rock out and own that beach like the girl boss that you are.

Me?

⭐️ Rating: 4.3/5 (6,886 Reviews) Price: $27.19 Details: Read more on Amazon!

I love the bathing suit above, in black. It’s sexy enough to make me feel good but not so sexy that I feel like my boob will pop out and poke someone in the eye. The perfect amount of coverage mixed with a sprinkling of sex appeal.

Need a cover up for your swimsuit?

⭐️ Rating: 4.2/5 (7,041 Reviews) Price: $26.99 Details: Read more on Amazon!

You and me both. I’m not a huge fan of walking around in my bathing suit cause it makes me feel almost naked. But I also don’t wanna stroll up to the beach in groddy old gym clothes.

Therefore I rock this coverup like it’s my job and feel totally comfortable walking down the beach. Just be careful because the crochet pattern has a ton of holes that can get caught on things.

6. Leave the Tye Dye and Vibrant Colors Behind

I didn’t get this memo on my first time in Barcelona. Therefore, I wore a neon green fleece and a bright pink backpack. Yeah, total party foul.

Generally speaking locals prefer subdued colors like blue, grey or brown, especially during the winter and fall. And if they do use color, it’s typically a pop of color from a signature accesory.

But this is just a suggestion. Feel free to wear what you want. Just remember that if you wear a bunch of super bright colors, it’s a dead giveaway that you’re a total tourist.

That’s Why I Love this Shirt!

⭐️ Rating: 4.4/5 (9,810 Reviews) Price: $12.99 Details: Read more on Amazon!

It has a feminine fit that is a bit baggy but still attractive. I also love the inspiring quote and the neutral color that pairs well with a colorful scarf or necklace.

Plus it’s only $11 and I’ve worn it a bunch of times and it hasn’t worn out. I would pack a dressier top too!

⭐️ Rating: 4.3/5 (1,557 Reviews) Price: $25.99 Details: Read more on Amazon!

Something neutral and sleeveless, that you can tuck into your skirt. I personally love a looser, breathable top that is made of high-quality material, like this top here. Get it in black though since it’s way cuter!

7. Bring Sunscreen and a Hat

⭐️ Rating: 4.1/5 (2,701 Reviews) Price: $17.99 Details: Read more on Amazon!

What, you haven’t met Casper the friendly ghost? Yeah, that’s me, your pasty white friend with the passport. But it’s not just me. The sun in Barcelona is a bit strong no matter who you are.

Therefore I suggest bringing sunscreen and a nice hat because yes you’ll be walking around, exploring a ton of Barcelona Spain attractions. And no, you don’t want to look like Larry the lobster in all of your Instagram photos.

“I was worried that it was going to feel cheap and be TOO floppy but the brim is floppy with enough strength to be a little moldable. It’s well made and just perfect for floating in the pool all summer.”

Heather (read more reviews now!)

Plus hats are an accessory that always make Instagram photos look super cute. I personally love the hat below and have received a ton of compliments on it. It’s a feminine hat, with a wide brim that provides sun protection without making you look like you’re wearing a dinner plate on your head.

8. Selfie Stick Free is the Way to Be!

In general, I’m not a huge fan of selfie sticks. As a solo traveler, I suck it up and get up at the crack of dawn. I’ll then wipe the remnants of sleep deprivation from my face, grab my tripod, and take photos while everyone else is still sleeping.

If this doesn’t work for you that’s totally cool. But just know that in Barcelona, a selfie stick is the unmistakable sign of a tourist. Plus, they’ ve been banned at Barcelona points of interest like Casa Amatller, the Casa Lleó I Morera, the Picasso Museum and the Catalunya National Art Museum.

Therefore prepare yourself for the socially awkward moment when you’ll need to ask a total stranger to take your picture. You could also bring your own tripod because, like me, you’re not confident in another person’s ability to take your picture.

No, I’m not anal retentive or anything (Note the intense sarcasm). 

⭐️ Rating: 4.6/5 (74,661 Reviews) Price: $35.99 Details: Read more on Amazon!

If you need one, this tripod is light, easy to use, inexpensive, and perfect for someone who isn’t a professional photographer. But remember that you get what you pay for so don’t expect professional equipment.

9. Money Belt

⭐️ Rating: 4.6/5 (10,547 Reviews) Price: $23.92 Details: Read more on Amazon!

As you know from my tale of woe, pickpockets are everywhere in Barcelona, especially in busy, touristy areas. Therefore,  protect yourself and your valuables.

“Used this for a month of travel in foreign countries. Soft on skin and love the dividers that separate the credit or debit cards from foreign or usa currencies.”

Joy (read more reviews now!)

For me, the best way to protect my passport, cash, cellphone, and credit cards is with a money belt that I can easily hide under my shirt. Just make sure that it has RFID blocking sleeves to protect you from thieves who try and steal your information electronically.

Yeah not the sexiest item on this Barcelona packing list but who cares. Nothing ruins a vacation faster than identity theft.

10. Lipstick-Sized Portable Charger

⭐️ Rating: 4.5/5 (29,179 Reviews) Price: $17.99 Details: Read more on Amazon!

Raise your hand if you have electronics with you on vacation? (This girl’s hand shoots up) I’ll admit it, I’m very tech-dependent and would probably fall down a well or get eaten by a bear if I didn’t have my GPS with me at all times.

“I bought this little charger to go into a small survival kit. It does exactly what I wanted to do and gives me an extra charge out in the field. Great for a phone or a headlamp. If you’re using it for a back up for your phone, you were only get one charge.”

Peter (read more reviews now!)

That’s why if the battery on my phone dies, it’s like a Defcon 5 state of emergency. But never fear that’s where a handy, pint-sized portable charger comes in. So take a deep calming breath, namaste it up, and relax because this gadget will recharge multiple devices and save you a trip back to your hotel.

The Best Part Though? This little charger is teeny weeny and can easily be stored in your day bag; a fact that keeps your hopes of becoming the ultimate minimalist packer very much alive.

11. Shawl

⭐️ Rating: 4.5/5 (2,110 Reviews) Price: $22.99 Details: Read more on Amazon!

I feel like a shawl is ALWAYS a good idea. You can use it as a pillow or as an extra layer of warmth when you’re cold. And if you’re hot? Pssh, no worries. You have layers so just take it off and you’re good to go.

But shawls are even better in Barcelona! Why? In many areas in Barcelona, you should dress more conservatively. That’s why a shawl comes in handy.

“I love this. Lite weight. Good for air conditioned places to keep warm.”

James (read more reviews now!)

Just throw it over your shirt or dress and you’re instantly covered up (perfect for Barcelona’s many churches, like La Sagrada Familia, where your shoulders and chest should be covered).

It’s also handy at night when a damp, ocean breeze rolls through Barcelona, creating a slight chill in the air.

12. Deodorant Wipes

⭐️ Rating: 4.5/5 (1,295 Reviews) Price: $16.49 Details: Read more on Amazon!

One of the best travel items ever! No joke, these lightly scented gems of freshness are perfect after a long-haul flight. I mean, you can’t always shower at your hotel right away since well, you might not be able to check in.

Therefore rather than sit around and wait for the shower, just use one of these wipes to feel a whole lot less stinky. And added bonus? They are lightly scented sheets (no gag-inducing floral odors) leave no sticky residues, are easy to pack, and work well with sensitive skin. So yeah, they’re re a total keeper.

13. Quick Dry Towel

⭐️ Rating: 4.6/5 (9,411 Reviews) Price: $8.99 Details: Read more on Amazon!

One of the must haves when packing for Barcelona is a quick dry towel. Trust me… This travel hack will change your packing style. The thing is not only does this towel work great for its actual purpose in a hostel where you may or may not always get the best linen. It also is great when visiting Barcelona’s beaches.

“I absolutely love these towels. I travel frequently, and our climate in the Pacific Northwest is very humid. These towels dries so fast, unlike most other towels you would find in the store. I’m slowly expanding my collection of these towels because the range of sizes has been fantastic. and they are so soft. These towels are also great for my curly hair.”

Haley (read more reviews now!)

It fits very snuggly inside your bag so you can easily take it without needing a big bulky backpack. It also dries insanely fast which is a big bonus when you pack it up and head back home.

It also doubles as a picnic blanket should you need it. Plus it washes super easily after use. A travel towel has so many uses that I rarely head out on one of my trips without one.

14. Collapsible Water Bottle

⭐️ Rating: 4/5 (990 Reviews) Price: $15.59 Details: Read more on Amazon!

Getting a collapsible water bottle is a total game changer when you come to Barcelona. During summer (and sometimes in the other seasons too!), Barcelona becomes insanely hot. Keeping hydrated is really important and honestly speaking, you can’t keep buying water bottles wherever you go. Not only does it become expensive, it is not environmentally friendly nor is it practical. 

“This bottle is an ideal choice for travel. It’s light, collapses easily and is sturdy. It can even clip on to your backpack. The color selection is great. This was a great help on a recent trip to Spain.”

Andrea (read more reviews now!)

So what do you do? Buy a collapsible water  bottle that you can refill wherever you go. Barcelona’s tap water is potable so you won’t have an issue anywhere. When not in use, just fold up the bottle and put it away. It hardly takes any space! Pretty handy right? So what are you waiting for? Buy your collapsible water bottle now!

Feel Like You Might Forget Something? No Worries! Print Out this Barcelona Packing List and You Won’t Forget a Thing!

Bare in mind, what to pack for Barcelona can vary greatly, depending on when you visit. Therefore, I’ve created a handy little cheat sheet for you, below, that details all the changes you should make to your Barcelona wardrobe, depending on the season of your visit.

So check it and use it as a rough guide for your future Barcelona travels. 

What to Pack for Barcelona in the Winter

(December through February temperatures are between 50 °F and 60 °F)

• Remove the Bathing Suit and Coverup
• Pack a Warn Jacket
• Opt for Sweater Dresses
• Pack a Chunky Knit Sweater
• Pack a Pair of Boots
• Pack Extra socks to keep your feet warm
• Sunglasses are a must

What to Pack for Barcelona in the Spring

(March through May temperatures are between 50°F and 70°F)

• Remove the Bathing Suit and Coverup
• Weather can vary wildly so pack lots of layers
• Wear florals to match the season
• Pack a raincoat (rainboots if you need them)
• Also, add a nice leather jacket. Like the one below, only in black. Best leather jacket EVER.
• Sunglasses are a must

What to Pack for Barcelona in the Summer

(May through September where temperatures are between 60°F and 80°F)

• Only Wear Shorts to the Beach
• Pack a bathing suit and coverup
• Pack cotton, linen, silk, and rayon since they are more breathable
• Sunglasses are a must
• No long sleeve layers. Pack loose fitting tank tops instead
• Switch out leggings for tights

What to Pack for Barcelona in the Autumn

(October and November where temperatures are between 50°F and 60°F)

• Remove the Bathing Suit and Coverup
• Sunglasses are a must
• waterproof jacket
• backpack cover
• rainboots
• Pack purple, maroon and emerald green colors

What To Pack For Barcelona FAQ

What To Wear In Barcelona At Night?

Barcelona tends to dress up for the nights. So think of smart formals for both men and women. Generally speaking men wear collared shirts and formal shoes. Women on the other hand wear dresses though not everyone dons heels. Even the beach clubs have smart formals as their dress code. So don’t be caught off guard.

Does Barcelona Get Cold At Night?

It really depends on when you visit. In December – January, you will find that the nights are downright chilly. The temperature ranges from 6-12C. So you definitely need a jacket or a nice thick cardigan when you head out. In summers, the temperature is chilly. In fact, it isn’t uncommon to find that the night temperatures are around 20-24C. A light cardigan would suffice for these days.

What Not To Carry To Barcelona?

Barcelona is notorious for pickpockets. The best thing to do is blend in as much as you can. So avoid anything that is ultra gaudy or flashy. Try to stick to neutral colors. The locals also tend to dress up. So if you want to fit in, classy chic outfits are your go to!

There you have it! My semi-little, Barcelona packing guide for women. Sorry guys, I’m not a dude and have no clue what a Barcelona packing list for men should look like.

But, check it out, let me know what you think, and give me a shout out in the comments below. I promise,I’ll try and get back to you ASAP!

Until Next Time! OXOXIO!

Additional Resources You’ll Love

Unique Barcelona Souvenirs Everyone Will Love!

How to Prepare for Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona Solo Travel Guide