Know the weather before you pack
Spain’s climate varies hugely by region. In Andalusia (cities like Seville, Córdoba or Málaga), summers can easily reach 38–40 °C, while in winter mornings can drop to 5–7 °C. The sun is strong, but houses often have little heating, so pack both light clothes and something warm for evenings. In Madrid and central Spain, the air is dry — you’ll need layers in winter and breathable clothes in summer. Meanwhile, in northern areas like Galicia or the Basque Country, temperatures are milder but rain is frequent between October and April. A light waterproof jacket and shoes that can handle wet streets are essential. Wherever you go, layering is your best strategy — the weather can shift a lot in one day.
Dress smart and local
Spanish style is casual yet tidy. People dress by season, so even in warm regions you won’t see locals wearing shorts in January. For your internship, think smart casual: a couple of shirts or blouses, neutral trousers or skirts, and clean sneakers or simple shoes. You’ll blend in better and be ready for work without overpacking. Remember, comfort is key — you’ll walk a lot in Spain.
Documents and essentials
Bring your passport or ID, visa or residence permit (if needed), health insurance, and a copy of your Learning or Training Agreement. Keep both printed and digital versions stored safely in the cloud. It’s also smart to carry €100–200 in cash for your first few days since some small shops may not take cards. Make sure you have your accommodation details and emergency contacts handy too.
Tech and daily basics
Spain uses Type C/E plugs (230 V), so pack one or two adapters depending on your country. Avoid heavy appliances like hairdryers — they’re cheap to buy locally, and the voltage can differ. Your laptop, charger, and phone are enough, but a small power strip can be very useful in shared apartments.
Toiletries and health
Bring only what you need for the first week — you’ll find everything in local supermarkets and farmacias. If you take prescription medication, bring a note from your doctor and enough supply for your stay. Sunscreen is essential for most of the year, even in winter, and especially in the south. A small first-aid kit with painkillers and plasters is also handy.
Life in your accommodation
Check what’s included before arriving: many student flats provide bed linen and towels, but not all. A quick-dry microfiber towel is perfect if you need your own. Bring a reusable shopping bag, a water bottle, and lightweight clothes that dry easily — most Spanish apartments don’t have dryers. Small touches like these will make your first week much smoother.
Final advice
Don’t overthink it — Spain is modern and affordable, and you can buy almost anything you forget once you arrive. Focus on clothes that can mix and match, practical shoes, and the documents you can’t replace. Pack light, travel smart, and leave room for souvenirs — and memories. Whatever the season or city, you’ll be ready to enjoy your Spanish adventure from day one.
You can find much more useful information in the other posts on our blog!
