What to Pack for Southern Spain in December: Layers for Easy Winter Sunshine

Not sure what to pack for Southern Spain in December? This complete Southern Spain packing list will help you prepare for a warm winter escape.

Southern Spain in December is the perfect escape from cold, grey winters. Think sunny days, crisp evenings, festive lights, and the scent of orange trees in the air. From the architectural wonders of Seville and Granada to the coastal calm of Cadiz or Almeria, it’s all about balancing style, comfort, and weather versatility.

Pin

You’ll need light layers, a stylish coat, and some warm touches for evenings. December in Andalusia can surprise you with both sunshine and a sudden breeze, so pack smart and travel light but well-prepared.

📝Note: This article is all about what to pack for Southern Spain in December. Here you can find a huge and comprehensive list. Feel free to adapt to your needs, and share your tips in the comments!

Weather & Travel Context 🌦️

• Average highs: 15–18°C / 59–64°F
• Average lows: 6–10°C / 43–50°F
• Rain: Light showers, 4–6 days/month
• Snow: Rare, except in Sierra Nevada
• Vibe: Casual-chic, festive, laid-back but stylish

What to Pack for Southern Spain in December

🧳 Luggage & Packing Tools

• Medium suitcase – Ideal for layered outfits 🧳
• Carry-on backpack – Perfect for trains or weekend side trips 🎒
• Duffel bag – Handy for countryside getaways 👜
• Daypack – For daily adventures or hikes 🎒
• Packing cubes – Organize day-to-night options 📦
• Shoe bags – Protect clothes from dirty soles 👞
• Waterproof toiletry bag – Prevent leaks 🧴
• Document holder – Passports, tickets, ID 📁
• Reusable tote – Great for markets or beach 🛍️
• Laundry bag – Keep used items separate 🧺
• Luggage scale – Avoid surprise fees ⚖️
• Travel lock – Useful for public transport 🔒
• Neck pouch – Secure valuables in crowds 🎟️
• Travel towel – If you’re visiting spas or budget spots 🧼
• Neck pillow – For long travel days 🛏️
• Sleep mask – Especially for early sunrises 😴

👗 Clothes

• Long-sleeve tops (3–4) – Perfect for sunny afternoons 👕
• Sweaters (2–3) – Layer with jackets 🧶
• Blouses or shirts (2–3) – Dress up with jeans 👚
• Blazer or cardigan – Stylish & practical 🧥
• Jeans or trousers (2–3) – Go from walking tours to tapas 👖
• Midi skirt or dress – Pair with tights for warmth 👗
• Leggings – For layering or lounging 🧘
• Lightweight coat – Down or wool for chilly nights 🧥
• Rain jacket – Compact & water-resistant 🌧️
• Activewear – Great for hiking or travel days 🚶
• Pajamas – Long sleeves for colder mornings 💤
• Swimsuit – For hotel spas or Sierra Nevada resorts 👙
• Underwear (7+) – Everyday essentials 👙
• Bras (2–3) – Include a sports bra 👚
• Warm socks (5–7) – Great for walks & cozy nights 🧦
• Tights – For layering with dresses or skirts 🧤

💆 Skincare

• Hydrating cleanser – Combat dry winter air 🧴
• Refreshing toner – Balances after sun 💧
• Light moisturizer – Keep skin soft 🧴
• Sunscreen – Essential even in December ☀️
• Makeup remover – Gentle and travel-friendly 🧻
• Face exfoliator – Use once a week 🧽
• Eye cream – Prevent dryness 👁️
• Hydrating mist – For dry climates 💦
• Sheet masks – Travel spa moments 🧖
• SPF lip balm – For sun and wind 💋
• Spot treatment – Just in case 🩹

💄 Makeup

• BB cream – Light coverage + hydration 💁
• Concealer – For tired eyes or blemishes 👁️
• Pressed powder – Control shine 💨
• Blush – Add healthy winter color 🌺
• Highlighter – Subtle glow ✨
• Bronzer – Warm up your look 🌞
• Neutral eyeshadow palette – Versatile tones 🎨
• Waterproof eyeliner – Stay put on misty days 🖊️
• Mascara – Open up your eyes 💧
• Brow pencil or gel – Frame naturally 👁️
• Lipstick or balm – Hydrate & color 💄
• Setting spray – Lock it all in 🌬️
• Brushes – Compact set 🖌️

💇 Hair Care

• Brush or comb – Detangle and go 💇
• Hair ties & clips – For windy towns 🌬️
• Travel-size shampoo & conditioner – Hydrating 🧴
• Dry shampoo – Quick refresh 💁
• Heat protectant – For blow-dry or styling 🔥
• Anti-frizz serum – Calm winter static 💧
• Mini dryer – Most hotels have one 💨
• Flat iron or curler – Compact tool 🌀
• Stylish hat or beanie – Warm and photogenic 🧢
• Hair accessories – Barrettes, bands, or bows 🎀

👟 Shoes & Accessories

• Comfortable walking shoes – Cobblestone approved 👟
• Ankle boots – Stylish and practical 👢
• Flats or slip-ons – For sunny days 👠
• Wool scarf – Lightweight but warm 🧣
• Gloves – Thin, cozy pair 🧤
• Hat or beret – Sun or chill protection 🧢
• Umbrella – For surprise showers ☔
• Sunglasses – Andalusian sun is strong 😎
• Jewelry – Minimal, mixable pieces 💍
• Crossbody bag – Safety and style 👜

📑 Documents & Essentials

• Passport + copies – Required for ID 🛂
• Visa (if applicable) – Schengen rules 📝
• ID card – Optional for EU citizens 🪪
• Travel insurance – Must-have 🧾
• Tickets & confirmations – Print or offline 🧾
• Cash & credit card – Use both 💶
• Emergency contact list – Save offline 📇
• Offline maps – Helpful in small towns 🗺️
• Notebook & pen – Notes, thoughts, journaling 🖊️
• Travel wallet – Keep things together 👛
• Hotel safe pouch – Secure valuables 🔐

🚑 First Aid

• Blister pads – City and nature walks 🩹
• Antiseptic wipes – Always good to have 🧼
• Bandages/gauze – Light wound care 🩺
• Tweezers – Multipurpose ✂️
• Small scissors – TSA-safe ✂️
• Digital thermometer – In case 🌡️
• Cotton/Q-tips – Handy for many things ☁️

🧼 Health & Hygiene

• Prescription meds – Full supply 💊
• Pain relief – For walking or travel days 🤕
• Cold/allergy meds – Dry air can hit 🤧
• Motion sickness pills – If you’re coastal cruising 🚗
• Daily vitamins – Stay energized 💊
• Feminine hygiene – Bring your preference 🩸
• Hand sanitizer – Always useful 👐
• Antibacterial wipes – Flights, trains, surfaces 🧽
• Eye drops – Dry city air 👁️
• Contact lens supplies – If needed 👓
• Compact mirror – For quick checks 🪞
• Toothbrush + paste – Keep your smile fresh 🪥
• Floss – Don’t forget it 🦷
• Deodorant – Roll-on or stick 🧼
• Razor – Compact or disposable 🪒
• Nail kit – Clippers and file 💅
• Perfume – Travel-sized scent 🌸
• Tissues – For sudden sniffles 🧻

📱 Tech & Electronics

• Smartphone – Essential for navigation & pics 📱
• Tablet or laptop – Optional 💻
• Camera – For Alhambra or Seville snaps 📸
• Chargers – Don’t forget them 🔌
• Power bank – Stay charged on day trips 🔋
• Plug adapter – EU Type C/F ⚡
• Cloud/USB backup – Save your memories 💾
• Offline apps – Maps, tickets, translator 🗺️
• SIM/eSIM – Stay connected affordably 🌐
• E-reader – Perfect for slow travel 📖
• Headphones – Music or calls 🎧
• Waterproof phone case – In case of showers 📱

🎧 Entertainment

• Books – Set in Spain for extra fun 📚
• Movies/series – Download ahead 🎬
• Podcasts/music – For travel moments 🎶
• Journal – Capture your memories 📓
• Travel games – Cards or compact 🃏
• Magazine – For pool or café time ☕

🎁 Extras

• Snacks – For trains or long walks 🍫
• Reusable water bottle – Eco-friendly 💧
• Shopping bag – Souvenir-ready 🛍️
• Laundry soap – For sink washes 🧼
• Sewing kit – Small fixes 🧵
• Whistle – For safety when solo 🔊
• Lint roller – For darker layers 👕
• Footrest – Add comfort to travel ✈️
• Shoe deodorizer – Stay fresh 👃
• Melatonin – Jet lag helper 😴

🌍 Travel Tips

• Layer smart – Sunny midday, chilly evenings 🌞🌙
• Siesta hours – Some shops close mid-day 🕒
• Bring comfy shoes – Cobblestones are everywhere 👟
• Tap water is safe – Refill your bottle 💧
• Eat local – Try churros, jamón, and tapas 🍽️

🛂 Visa Tips

• Spain = Schengen Zone 🛂
• Apply early if needed 🗓️
• Print your return ticket and hotel bookings 📄
• Customs rules – Know the limits 🧾
• Passport photos – Handy for transit or SIM 📷

⭐ Must-Haves

• Passport – With 6+ months validity 🌍
• Travel insurance – Just in case 🛡️
• Phone + SIM or eSIM – Stay connected 📱
• Cash & cards – Some places prefer cash 💶
• Plug adapter – EU standard ⚡
• Health kit – Cold meds, painkillers, etc. 🧼
• Offline maps – For navigation 🗺️
• Reservations – Save them to your device 🧾
• Day bag – Light, safe, and versatile 👜
• Water bottle – Easy to refill 💧

👍 Good-to-Have

• Blanket scarf – Stylish warmth 🧣
• Backup charger – Just in case 🔌
• Travel steamer – Freshen up outfits 🧺
• Extra tote – For holiday shopping 🎁
• Eye mask + earplugs – For deeper sleep 😴
• SIM/eSIM – Save on roaming 🌐
• Luggage tags – Quick ID 📛