Packing for Greece
 

I always have a sweater with me (I need one on the plane if nothing else). I've been to Greece three times in summer and don't think I wore one much but I'd never travel there (or anywhere) without at least one light sweater. I would not take a rain coat. High summer in Greece (or Italy or Spain) is about the only time I don't have jeans with me, I usually have one pair of very light long slacks (usually the kind sold in hiking stores, North Face, etc.) but rarely ware them (again, on the plane maybe). Just lots of lightweight skirts/skorts, dresses.

Lilly you don't give exact dates OR length of trip which makes it harder to give the most helpful answers -- you require guessing on our part. i clicked on your name thinking perhaps you'd provided details earlier, but the best i got was "A thursday morning in June" and "10-12 days". Details DO help. For the basics of How Hot Will it Get by Day and How cool by night ... Have you thought of googling 10-day weather forecast Athens??? It will give u an idea, of the Highs -- tho the islands will be several degrees cooler, and a constant breeze of course.

I just got back from Greece yesterday (I am still on Greek time; woke up at 2 am today).... from May 31 - June 17 ... and it was Much warmer than previous trips I've taken during this period. But it wouldn't have helped to go earlier... for other problems. Like everywhere else in the world (despite claims of "clilmate change is a hoax"), Greece weather has been very upsy-downsy .... much of May was unusually rainy. This time, at least half the june days got up to 90°F from about noon to 5-6 pm. And this coming week, the highs seem to be 93-94 in Athens = 90 in islands. Herewith my wardrobe re-thinks:

• 2 lightweight cardigans, usually very useful over the shoulders after sunset. Only 3 times in 18 days. Take ONE, just because you'll need on plane
• TOPS - A 3/4 length cotton shirt i normally wear to dinner 3-4 times -- never wore it. Had 4-5 knit SS -- wish at at least 2 had been sleeveless tanks.
• LEGS - 2 ltweight cotton trousers; wore 1 pair on plane to/from; other never. 3 cropped cotton capri + 1 knee-length knit pair - wore always.
• OTHER -- If u have lightweight loose sundress, sub for a top/capri ... I also had a loose-fit print jersey trouser I used for 2 dressier evenings w black top.
• FEET - STURDY Sneakers, wear on plane. SANDALS - the Sturdy type, not fawncy. Skip the flip-flops to save space.

ALWAYS-TAKE -- Sleep Mask -- a "What-IF" Zip-Lock Bag -- with rubber bands, Large Safety pins, PAPER tape, my BEST instant spot remover.

Hi and thank you for the information. Generally, I'm a bit coy with dates because I don't necessarily want to advertise when I'll be out of the country for safety reasons. My packing list is as follows: 3 sundresses, 2 pairs of shorts, 1 skirt, 1 3/4 sleeve top, 2 tanks, 2 t-shirts, 1 cotton blouse and running/swimming garments. My concern was how cool it may get at night, so I think I will bring a longish cashmere sweater and a couple of cotton scarves. Since we'll be ferrying between islands and in case of rain, a light rain shell may also be useful.

You can say the month of the year. I don't think that's a big security risk :-)

I would not bring 3 sundresses, 2 is plenty. I wouldn't bring a skirt since you have 2 or 3 dresses.

Don't you want something to sleep in? What are you wearing on your feet?

You need some kind of sweater/jacket on the plane ride, they can be freezing, so that piece could do double-duty for breezy evenings.

Yup that's how it works... If you want to pack that light you HAVE to be willing to wear the same clothes over and over again. Whether you launder them or not in between is your choice :-)

She won't say when they are going but the OP stated "finally approaching" and is taking "sundresses" so I'm guessing yes to summer-time.

ODIN -- She;s only going for about 10 days and probably starting next week -- Weather predictions are for above 90 all days, including in Islands, and not down to the 80s until 7 pm or so, she'll never use a cashmere sweater OR rain gear -- maybe a lite cotton cardigan as I found useful a few times..

As for launry, the tone of "how do people possibly manage?" that gives me a glimpse into how the haute bourgoisie still live.... yes, we do wear a tank top several times and no, our small lodgings (with wonderful balconies overlooking the sea) do not have uniformed staff in lobby, or in-house laundry services ... but they do have a tiny rack on that balcony, where a T-shirt or top will dry in less than 2 hours of a morning, while we're off swimming. Amaxingly no one can tell that it was hand-laundered.

Read up on the toilet situation in Greece.

Take some air fresheners. ;)

Unless someone has a 'sweat' problem (and seriously some people do) or tends to be on the sloppy side (again, I know people who are always spilling things on themselves) then re-wearing clothes is not a problem. Mix and match if boredom is a problem. And bring things that look OK when you wash them in the sink. I bring small containers of actual laundry soap which I find works better than using shampoo or body wash (which is what I used to do, it does work but laundry soap works better and it only takes a few drops really).

I find those options WAY more appealing than lugging a big suitcase - or then spending time taking clothes to be laundered.

I always plan to do laundry, preferably one of the wash and fold places.

Otherwise an apt. with a washer and dryer.

I pack enough clothes to go lis 8 days without laundry, though I have a couple of Ex Officio underwear for day to day.

But I do perspire a lot, in warm weather, because I'm walking a lot and carrying heavy photo gear around.

I don't remember what I did for my 10-11 day trip. Usually if you google laundry in x, a TA thread comes up. Could always ask the hotel where you're staying if there are laundromats at least nearby. Full service hotels of course will charge a couple of Euros per piece, making it kind of pricey.

I vacation twice a year in Mexico where there are similar temps to what's mentioned here. I pack a lot more clothes that the OP. Things get sweaty (not smelly, just wet) so I change several times a day. I need more clothes than this pack list regardless the length of the trip. I don't drag a big suitcase around, but I can't/don't want to go carry-on only either.

And I'm still wondering where are the sandals, sneakers, or shoes? Those take up a lot of room in a small rollaboard.

Sandals will be more comfortable in the heat but if you anticipate doing any amount of walking, you might want something with tread.

And there are unpaved areas on the islands. So hiking shoes with soles which don't flex, might be useful if you have to trod on rocky surfaces, like hiking up or down a hill.

But if you're going to lounge in the sun somewhere, then it won't matter.

FWIW, I prefer to travel with skirts rather than dresses -- skirts give me more mix-and-match options for tops (which I can use with skirts and slacks) than dresses and the tops are easier to wash than dresses.

That's a good point about the skirt vs. dresses. I'll bring either a denim short skirt or a knee length cotton skirt. I really appreciate all of the input. Thank you!

Those 3 pairs of footwear are perfect, thanks for answering. I take the same but would also toss in a pair of rubber flip flops (for beach, shower, pool, as slippers in the room). They don't take up much room and come in handy. I'd bring both those skirts :-) and cut back one sundress!

I'm enjoying reading what others consider necessities for their trips to the Greek Islands. As a male I only need shorts and a few t-shirts, which can be washed in the bathroom sink and hung out to quickly dry in the Greek sunshine and wind. Paros does have a few mosquitos, so it's a good idea to have long-sleeves to wear in the evenings.

Hello,

Greece is a wonderful destination, and I have been there 3 times (each time during summer months). The heat was so high that I could not stand wearing almost anything besides a very thin summer dress. My advice, don't get the sweater because it will take precious space. Maybe it's a good idea to check the weather report before you fly so it's more accurate. I didn't experience rain in Greece in neither one of my trips there.

I hope you will have a great trip!
Schedule

I have been checking on the weather and I think you're right - skip the rain jacket. I'll probably wear the sweater for the flight, so I won't sacrifice precious luggage space. The dresses are all lightweight and it may be overkill to pack four of them, while wearing one for travel, but I know that when it's really hot, I often change multiple times a day.

I have nothing helpful to offer, other than that I wish I was going to Greece! Have only been to Santorini once, for 5 nights in September, and LOVED it.

I'm in awe of you folks who can pack with such discipline. I'm (over)packing now for a weekend wedding trip, and I know I'm taking too much, but I like having options for clothing when there are three special events, so I fill my checked bag with as much as it will hold. DH will roll his eyes at the weight of my bag, but he'll get over it.

We may do a day trip to Santorini, but didn't work it into this trip's itinerary opting for Mykonos as our expensive, over-saturated with tourists island. I imagine September is an ideal time to visit Greece and once I'm retired from teaching, I hope to experience it myself! As far as packing goes, on my first trip abroad my luggage was the heaviest (by far) of my group of 7 and I've since vowed to not ever be that person again. 20+ trips to Europe later, I've mastered the carry-on only method. Summer is easy, but winter is definitely more challenging. Enjoy your weekend!

hmmm, you only have dresses and shorts and skirts (no pants or capris?). I don't care to fly in a skirts and would want at least one pair of something that could cover my legs along. hey how did those 3 sundresses become 4 and 1 to travel = 5 -lol- just teasing you.

Because the dresses take so little room I can add another! I'm not really a pants girl and don't think I'll miss them if the temperature is 85+. The sweater I'm bringing for the plane has doubled as a robe and blanket so that'll have to suffice if the airline doesn't offer blankets. Plus, I'll have a cotton scarf/wrap. PS - Did you notice I added another pair of shoes?!?

I just hate sitting on a plane in a skirt, i think those seats are creepy. And don't get me started on the bathroom -lol. Why I like to cover up a bit more for travel. I wouldn't be wearing pants around Greece in 85 degree weather. Besides planes are often like an ice box (nearly froze my trip to Mexico last month dressed in summer clothes!).

Sure another pair of shoes is great although I would have chosen more useful flip flops over more stylish espadrilles. I always err on the side of more shoes and less clothing pieces. My theory is you can always re-wear a top an extra time, but if something goes horribly wrong and you only have one (or even two) pair of shoes you'd kinda screwed.

Perfect!

Wear/ take what you are comfortable in!

You can buy flip flops anywhere, if you're so inclined. Personally, I have no idea how adults walk around wearing those things on sidewalks and streets. They are unsafe, and so bad for your feet and your hygiene. Makes me cringe when I see people traveling in those things, etc. Unless you're on the beach.

Hi, we just spent just over 2 weeks in Greece.. May 26- June 12 .. We visited Paros,( my second time , hubbys first ) Naxos( 3rd time) and Mykonos ( 4th time ) ...

Never needed a sweater of any type.. it was hot. even at night.
Did take and wear my running shoes for morning walks ( couldnt walk much in heat of day , lol ) and evening walks.. roads can be uneven and even unpaved in some places we stayed.
Did not need pants or slacks.. but since Greece was only a portion of our 5 week trip, I did have some with me for plane ride. I would never bring them to greece in summer otherwise.. Stretchy leggings are comfier than slacks for a long plane ride anyways.

I would not bring a denim skirt.. denim is so hot and heavy.. stick to light and gauzy ( bonus light and gauzy is easier to sink wash, dries in a few hours, and as noted its less weight in luggage)

I had more clothes than 2 weeks in greece needed.. as mentioned Greece was only a portion of our trip.. but all I wore was a bathing suit ( brought two) , a beach cover up, 2 sundresses, 2 skirts, one pair of shorts, and assorted lightweight tops.. flip flops , runners, and I brought some dressier flat sandals.. never wore them there though.. Did purchase one more sundress on Naxos for 25 euros..( super lightweight gauzy cotton.. I was just so hot)

I don't pack something to sleep in.. its hot.. ( and for portions of trip its not so hot..hotel beds seem to provide sheets and blankets..lol) To sit out on various decks and have morning coffee I did have a sarong. ( this is a perfect travel item .. it can be draped around your head and shoulders on plane for warmth and light blocking to sleep, it can be worn as a beach cover up, it can be a bathrobe, and it can also be tied to my shoulder bag and used as a shawl if needed or in the case of one church we visited to cover bare shoulders as requested.

We dont do clubs etc.. if one is into that then I guess you might need more clothe

I like these types of posts. I am debating a Greece trip next August maybe and I never know what to take. I'm a causal dresser and don't really wash clothes. When I've tried something just doesn't go right unless I have access to both a washer and dryer. I did do fine in Italy Amalfi coast in August and did rewear clothes but not all as I do sweat.

I just spent two weeks in Greece with a 22x14x9 carry on and another bag that fit under the seat. I packed everything in 2 quart Ziploc freezer bags. I ordered the 2 quart size from Amazon....I've never seen them in a store. Place some items in, close it and leave about 1-2" open. Sit on the bag on a hard service to let out the air and then close the remaining 1-2". You'll be amazed how much you can fit in the suitcase if you do this. You can also purchase bags with little pumps to remove the air.

I am very paranoid about arriving somewhere without my clothes. The first time I went to Italy my bag was not on the carousel. We found it on a cart that an employee was filling up to take to unclaimed baggage. I have no idea why it never made it around. Anyhow, I'm convinced there is nothing sold over a size 2 there, so I would have been SOL. So now, it's carry on only.

My 22x14x9 bag is expandable, so I check it on the way home.

I usually stay somewhere that at least has a washer. And I also hand wash some things. I usually pack lightweight items. As someone said above, you hang your clothes on the rack outside and they are dry in 2 hours or less, especially on the Greek Islands.

Have a wonderful trip!!!

For MoBro...
You're obviously talking cheap beach flip flops, that's why you think bad things. The kind I have I can't just "buy anywhere". My "flip flops" are orthopedic, I can walk for a couple miles in them, they are leather and nice looking. But I also have rubber ones (again a good brand Haviannas not cheapies) to use as bedroom slippers, for the pool, for the beach, in a questionable shower stall.

well I am not comfortable to sleep naked in strange places. What if the fire alarm goes off in the night someone knocks on your door or whatever? And I don't like to sleep in something that's 'dirty' from being worn outdoors. My Mexico trip weather is similar to what we're talking about Greece (no sweater needed, no pants needed!) and i keep one extra tank top and gauze shorts to use as pajamas. It's nice to have something cool and clean to slip into after shedding daytime clothes soaked with sweat.

The ones you buy "in a pinch" and you are describing don't fit, aren't supportive, and I agree are appropriate for the beach, pool, shower shoes.

I call these "flip flops" because of their style. I'm talking about ones like these: https://www.thewalkingcompany.com/p/...4000?pid=29461

Yes, I have to wear decent arch supports-- in particular Birkenstocks-- or my plantar fasciitis will flare up.
I have a collection of different Birks. They last a long time and fit my feet perfectly.

I don't like the slapping sound that some sandals make, and I don't like the between-the-toes thingie.

I love these, for around the house and/or traveling to a beach destination:
https://www.birkenstock.com/us/arizo...a-u_color=3856

people need good shoes to travel with is my only point. birks kill my feet. i'd die in those. i'd fall down in espadrilles. it's just so individual. but i do think footwear's an essential part of smart packing... per the topic of this thread!

I just got back from Paros, Naxos and Santorini. Take a light sweater for the evening. In Greece it is totally acceptable to wash clothes out. I did on a daily basis which cuts down on packing. I packed a lot of Under Armor type material tops and they went a long way