So, it's time for you to prepare for your internship and figure out what to pack for Spain! Deciding how to fit everything in your suitcase for both professional and casual settings can be stressful. You want to look sharp at your internship but also want comfortable clothes for weekend travel adventures. On top of all that, you also need to bring a few personal belongings to remind you of home, but you've only got limited space in your suitcase.
This guide should help you get started. If you get to Madrid and realize you have forgotten something, there are plenty of shops where you can buy anything else you might need.
1. Clothing and footwear
When it comes to what to pack for a trip to Spain, make sure to pack your clothing first, as this takes up the most room. You'll see a variety of styles in Spain, and the key is for you to wear what you feel comfortable in. Generally, Spanish people like to dress well and make an effort. This is especially true in the workplace, so make sure that you're prepared and pack the right clothes based on the weather for the time of year you'll be there. Make sure to pack the following:
- Comfortable shoes: There's plenty to see, and the city is easy to get around on foot if you have comfortable shoes.
- Smart shoes: These will be useful for work and for going out in the evening.
- Layers: Depending on the time of year, you'll need a coat. Spain has very hot summers and cold winters. Check the weather forecast before you leave home.
- Work-appropriate attire: When in doubt, it's always better to dress more formally. To save space, bring capsule clothing that mix and match well.
- Casual clothes: Don't forget to pack some jeans and T-shirts for your time outside of the office.
- Backpack: Interns love to travel on the weekends. Therefore, it's useful to bring a smaller backpack you can travel around with.
2. Apartment goods
The Intern Group’s accommodation includes a private room in a shared apartment. Though your room will include bedding, towels, and common kitchen appliances, you might wonder what to pack for Spain to make your apartment feel more like home. We recommend you pack the following:
- Electric appliances you use regularly: This includes hair dryers and straighteners, for instance.
- Your favorite food from home: Spain has fantastic cuisine, but if you have a favorite snack from your country (and space in your suitcase), bring some to Spain to help with homesickness.
- Plug adaptor: The Spanish system is compatible with most European plug sockets, but if you're traveling from further afield, bring an adaptor.
3. Medicines and toiletries
There are plenty of pharmacies in Spain, but if you have any prescription medicines, don’t forget to bring enough to last your entire stay. Some specific medicines and hygiene products to bring include:
- Prescriptions and birth control: If you’re taking medicine daily, make sure to bring enough with you to Spain before you start your internship.
- Feminine products: Though feminine products are easily found in any grocery or drug store in Madrid, they may be different from the ones you’re used to back home.
- Hygiene items: You might want to bring your favorite shampoos, lotions, and makeup from home, as you might not be able to find the same products in Spain.
4. Technology
From being able to communicate with people back home to regularly updating Instagram, technology is something you don’t want to be without. Here are things to remember to pack:
- Cell phone: If you can unblock your phone then you can buy a SIM card in Spain for about 20 Euros. You can pay per minute or GB and know how much you are spending. Whatever you do, don’t buy a SIM card at the airport because they are overpriced.
- Laptop: In some instances, you may be asked to use your own computer at your internship. You will be notified about this via email if this is the case.
- Camera: Whether it’s your phone, a point-and-shoot, or a fancy DSLR for photography lovers, don’t forget to pack it to capture all your favorite moments around Spain.
- Chargers: These include chargers for your cell phone and laptop and battery chargers for your camera or other tech and appliances you choose to bring.
5. Money
Before coming to Spain, make sure to call your bank to notify them of your travels. We recommend packing the following:
- At least two bank cards: When traveling abroad, it’s always smart to pack two cards with you in case one gets lost or stolen. To be on the safe side, it’s good to have these cards stored in two separate places.
- Cash: Before arrival, it’s good to exchange some money into euros at your bank so that you have some cash when you arrive. We recommend not changing currency in airports, as they have bad exchange rates.
6. Forms of Identification
In Spain, you should carry identification at all times. Not only will you need it to enter the country, but you’ll also need it when going to museums, bars, and other sorts of outings. Forms of identification that you should pack include the following:
- Passport: To enter Spain, you’ll need to show your passport and visa (if necessary) at Customs. Once you settle into your apartment, keep your passport in a safe place.
- Driver’s license: Though this isn’t necessary, it may be an easier form of identification to carry around with you along with a copy of your passport.
- Student ID: If you have a student ID, you can receive many discounts for students.
7. Miscellaneous
Now that all of the important things are packed, you might be wondering what to pack for Spain that will make you feel more comfortable abroad. Don’t forget to pack the following:
- Books: Whether you like physical books or digital ones, a good way to unwind after a day at your internship is by reading.
- Things needed to do your favorite hobbies: From drawing to playing a sport, don’t forget to bring anything necessary to do those things in Spain.
