croatia travel wardrobe

Ultimate packing list for vacation in Croatia

Are you getting ready for your Croatia trip? Make sure you read this post on what to bring and what to wear in Croatia. We cover all the essential things that should make your Croatia packing list.

With airlines charging a fortune for an extra bag, it’s essential to keep a packing list for a vacation in Croatia as short as possible. We will help you figure out what to bring and what not to bring for your vacation in Croatia .

Table of Contents

What to bring to Croatia: A packing list for a vacation in Croatia

The choice of luggage depends a lot on the type of traveler you are, and also on the type of activities you are planning to do.

I’ve arrived in Croatia seventeen years ago with a load of 135 kg, including a container of frozen pea soup that I made a day before at my Canadian home. This is not how anybody should travel. But considering that I was permanently moving to Croatia, I think I traveled pretty lightly . Back then I traveled with a wheeled suitcase . It was a hard-sided Samsonite suitcase. This kind of suitcase is resistant yet light-weighted and has spinner wheels and a safety lock. If you like to maximize your luggage space when traveling, definitely consider buying one of Samsonite’s wheeled suitcases .

We currently travel with carry-on luggage. While its volume is limited, and we need to carefully plan what we’ll bring with us, we still find that in terms of comfortable travel, there isn’t a better luggage option. We’ve got America Tourister Moonlight (ours is bright yellow!) and the LEVEL8 Elegance carry-on (ours is olive green!). Both carry-ons are amazing. We like LEVEL8’s suitcase a little bit more.

We avoid traveling with a backpack , although, for a long time, it was the only luggage choice we would consider. We’ve got too comfortable (or too old) meanwhile. If you like traveling with a backpack, check out High Sierra Tech Series  backpacks.

A day pack is very handy to have when traveling. Your camera, wallet, bottle of water (I don’t even know how we lived without bottled water before), a snack, everything you might need for a day will fit in. Outlander’s day-pack is very good and it folds into a small pouch that doesn’t take up much space in your suitcase. It also comes in different colors. For me, this is a perfect day pack for people on the go.

Check here for more information and the latest prices.

Croatia is really a safe country. I personally carry all my documents and money in my day pack. However, if you like to take all the precautions possible to avoid losing your money or important documents, you can consider buying a money travel pouch .

As for documents, all 3-star hotels and above, as well as all-new apartments to rent in Croatia , are required by law to provide a safe for the guests staying at the property. However, since we’ve been robbed from the apartment we were staying at in Valencia, I always keep my money and documents with me. I personally prefer the money pouch that you wear around your neck or shoulder, like this Venture 4th neck pouch .

Packing cubes

Packing cubes and compression sacs are essential for providing more space and better organization of your suitcase. We always use these Travelwise packing cubes .

Packing cubes, and other travel bags, are actually one of the travel essentials we bring on any trip. If you are interested to learn about other travel essentials for women to bring on any trip , we have a full post on that too!

Pants & jackets

We all have our own rules and tricks when it comes to clothes. And since you aren’t a 5-year-old, and I’m not your mother, I won’t start telling you how you should dress. We can only share a few ideas on what to wear in Croatia.

People in cities tend to dress up more than in coastal towns, although you won’t see anywhere sloppy-dressed Croatians. I also noticed that guys in small towns like to put on their sports attire. So, most of the time, you can keep your Croatia dress code simple, relaxed, and casual.

Consider that Croatia has four seasons, and three distinctive climates: a Mediterranean climate along the coast, a mountain climate on its rugged mountains, and a continental climate inland. This means that if you are visiting Croatia during the summer the majority of your clothes should be light.

However to be on the safe side bring a windbreaker jacket  along with a pair of long pants and long sleeves shirt or sweater. Check out this Columbia Switchback III jacket  and this lovely prAna Women’s Halle pants .

A denim jacket is another piece of clothing to bring. We love these Riders by Lee Indigo denim jackets in different colors , but you can also check out this Wrangler stretch denim jacket .

Bring also a pair or two of leggings . They take little space but can be handy if it gets chilly unexpectedly. Amazon has a great choice of affordable but stylish leggings.

Shorts, tops & dresses

You should bring a couple of shorts and tops. Choose ones that you can easily mix and match. Also, try to think of tops that can easily look elegant if paired with a necklace .

If you prefer casual dresses over shorts for your daily summer outfit, you can choose them instead. The Etcyy summer casual sleeveless dress , DB Moon casual summer dress , and Haomeili swing T-shirt dress are super affordable and come in numerous colors and patterns.

A maxi dress is a must for those nights when you feel dressed up. This Grecerelle short sleeve maxi dress is a perfect outfit for those occasions.

Swimming suit

A swimming suit is definitely the most important piece of clothing you will wear in Croatia. Croatia is all about the fun under the sun, and lazing at the beach by the pretty blue Adriatic sea . Bring two swimming suits ’cause nobody likes to stay wet, and it’s not really healthy.

Check this Cocoship retro 50s two pieces swimming suit, Dokotoo double-up tankini , or this Cocoship backless monokini .

Swimsuit cover-up

Ladies don’t forget your swimsuit cover-up in order to complete your beach look. They are stylish, add extra protection against UVA rays, and they allow you to head straight to the restaurant or bar after the swim.

This Jeasona cover-up is soft and comfortable, and it dries up quickly. And most importantly, it’s stylish and comes in many different colors.

Microfiber towel

While many accommodations in Croatia , be it hotels, apartments, or rooms to rent, provide bathroom towels, beach towels aren’t usually provided, at least not free of charge. However some property owners always like to provide more than the required minimum, so before you leave for Croatia, verify with the property. If there is a place in your suitcase, make sure to pack a beach towel.

We recommend the 4Monster microfiber travel towel . It’s super light and it dries quickly.

Water shoes

Water shoes should be the first item on your Croatia packing list. The Croatian coast is rocky, its beaches pebbly , so everybody wears water shoes. The ones who don’t are Croatian. They are used to this kind of beach. And if you don’t like water shoes, check jelly shoes. While they are not perfect for walking on the Croatian rocky coast, they do a job and they are usually more stylish than water shoes. Vera has a pair of Crocs flats . She loves them (there is something about going into the sea with your working shoes on!). However, when she walks on rocks, she needs to be careful. They are a bit slippery.

No visit to the beach is complete without a pair of sunglasses. We are both huge fans of Persol sunglasses for one simple reason – their lenses are made of glass. It helps that they also look great!

In summer temperatures in Croatia go over 30°C and the sun can be really spicy. You should definitely wear sunscreen at all times. You can buy it also in Croatia. But in case you use a special brand, like Avon Skin-So-Soft SPF 30 , bring it with you.

Walking shoes

Walking shoes will come in handy if you plan on visiting Croatian national parks, or hiking Croatian mountains. Besides, if it rains, they are always more comfortable than sandals.

Check out these Tiosebon mesh walking shoes.

Sandals will probably be the pair of shoes you’ll wear the most during your visit to Croatia. I love sandals. For me, sandals are the most comfortable type of shoes.

When it comes to sandals, I totally recommend Birkenstock sandals . Their sandals are comfortable and ergonomic (perfect for long walks!).

However, if you look for the benefits of Birkenstock but in a more stylish look, check Naot’s Sabrina Sandals , Clarks T-Spangen sandals , or Crocs Literide Sandals .

Toiletries set

Bodywash, shampoo, and soap are provided in all hotels in Croatia . However, I don’t know of any hotel (not even a 5-star hotel) that provides toothpaste, tweezers, shaving cream, or razors. These are things you’ll need to have on your packing list for a vacation in Croatia.

If you plan on renting an apartment in Croatia, then you’ll also need to bring your own body wash, and shampoo. However, some property owners are more sensitive than others, and they’ll provide body wash and shampoo with your rental unit. Check with them beforehand.

Also, if you don’t feel like carrying toiletries set, you can buy one in Croatia. All major towns have DM (Drogerie Markt chain store), BIPA, Kozmo, and Mueller, all stores specializing in toiletries.

Toiletries bag

We all travel with a toiletry bag where we keep all our toiletries and make-up. If you haven’t already, we suggest that you get a toiletries bag that can be hung on the wall, above your bed, or in a toilet.

Check on Amazon  hanging toiletry bag from D&D Wanderlust , or  this Freegrace’s toiletry bag .

Jet lag relief

If you are coming from far on a long-haul flight, you might need jet leg relief. Even more so if you plan to stay in Croatia for a week or less. You don’t want to waste this precious time sleeping or feeling tired. Bring with you this Miers Labs No Jet Lag Homeopathic Jet Lag Remedy .

Motion sickness relief

If you plan to visit one or more Croatian islands, but you often feel sick on boats, and ferries, make sure to have with you motion sickness relief. The sea bands offer the most natural way to relieve you from motion sickness. Find sea bands here.

Mosquito repellent

I cannot stand mosquitoes. And the best strategy regarding mosquitoes is to stop them from biting me in the first place. All the windows in my house have mosquito nets. But if they still find their way in, I also use mosquito repellent. I use Repel’s Lemon & Eucalyptus repellent. It is natural, smells nice, repels mosquitoes quite successfully, and it’s DEET-free. No matter what repellent you use, don’t forget to add it to your list of things to bring to Croatia.

Point-and-shoot camera

If you are looking for a super-compact camera with great features, we recommend  Canon SX620 . For those who want a bit more advanced camera, and don’t mind its size, a great option is  Panasonic Lumix FZ80 . Both cameras have RAW and manual shooting options, great optical zoom, and a WiFi connection.

However, we have our hearts set on  Canon G5X Mark II . The price is a bit steep, but the performance it offers, especially considering it is a point-and-shoot camera, is beyond belief.

DSLR camera

If you want total control over your camera then you should get a DSLR camera. But bear in mind that this camera will definitely take up lots of space when traveling. With additional equipment that goes along, like extra batteries, different lenses, a tripod, and the body itself, you’ll need an entire bag only for your photography equipment. We have a Canon t8i with a  24-105 mm lens and love it. We find that the 24-105 mm lens is relatively light-weighted, and a good option if you are trying to avoid carrying around too many different lenses. This one covers most of the situations you’ll want to capture without compromising the quality of your shots.

Action and mirrorless cameras

GoPro HERO 11 Black is a great tech gadget everybody seems crazy about (including us!). It’s small, it’s compact, water-resistant, and great for video (photos as well).

Lumix Panasonic GX85 is our newest camera. It’s a mirrorless camera with interchangeable lenses … it basically means that it can do everything that our big DSLR can do, but it’s light-weighted, and it’s small (it fits in the pocket of my jacket). It also has a great range of lenses to choose from. And these lenses are a fraction of the price (and size) compared with DSLR lenses. Total winner! If you want to have only one camera, we highly recommend checking mirrorless ones.

Waterproof phone bag

You want to take all those crazy moments you are going to experience in Croatia. And a majority of them include water, be it swimming in the Adriatic, snorkeling, sailing, or visiting gorgeous waterfalls. Make sure you have your phone camera safe at hand with these waterproof phone bags .

Adapters & Converters

Before you leave home, check if you need adapters and/ or converters to be able to use your electrical devices in Croatia. Croatia uses 220V, 50 Hz frequency, and type C & F plugs. Both are similar plugs with two round prongs with 19 mm between the two.

While adapters allow you to use different plugs , converters are needed to transform voltages from higher to smaller or vice versa.

Many hotels in Croatia, as well as private apartments, are required to provide guests with adapters. However, they don’t have to have as many adapters as rooms. And they can all be taken by the time you make it to the property. So like with everything in life, it’s always better to rely on yourself.

Adapters and converters aren’t expensive and can easily be purchased through Amazon .

Long-Rang WiFi Network Adapter: The majority of hotels and apartment rentals in Croatia offer a free WiFi connection. It might not be the fastest network out there, but it does the job most of the time. Croatia has an average download speed of 70 Mbps and an average upload speed of 15 Mbps on the mobile network (according to speedtest.net ).

Generally, if you stay in bigger towns, your internet connection will also be faster. However, if the internet is something you can’t live without even on vacation, consider getting yourself the Alfa WiFi Network adapter . It will help you boost a WiFi signal, and also discover more networks.

While few tea and coffee shops started serving a selection of good quality teas , it’s still rare to find real tea in Croatia. Croatians drink lots of tisanes, but black, green, oolong, or premium and delicate teas are hard to find. If you enjoy your tea, be sure it makes its way to your Croatia packing list.

Recommended travel guides

• Fodor’s Croatia Travel Guide (we are co-authors!)
• Lonely Planet Croatia Travel Guide  
• Rick Steves Croatia & Slovenia

Further reading

• Croatia Travel Guide: 26 Things To Know Before Traveling To Croatia
• Car Rental in Croatia
• Driving in Croatia
• Things To Do In Croatia
• Cost of Travel To Croatia
• Croatia On Budget: Money-saving Tips 
• Where to go in Croatia
• Getting around Croatia
• Croatia Apartments Guide
• A guide to renting villas in Croatia
• Ultimate Guide To Accommodation In Croatia
• Hotels in Croatia
• All-inclusive hotels in Croatia
• Packing List For Vacation In Croatia
• How To Choose Your Destination In Croatia
• Outdoor Activities in Croatia
• 49 Awesome Beaches In Croatia
• Snorkeling In Croatia
• White Water Rafting In Croatia
• 20 Must-Try Foods In Croatia
• 18 Tips For First-time Travel to Croatia
• Best Lightweight Luggage For Europe

We hope that our suggestions on what to wear in Croatia will come in handy if you plan to visit this beautiful country.

Do you have anything to add to this Croatia packing list? Did we help you better plan your Croatian holidays with our ideas on what to bring and what to wear in Croatia? Let us know in the comments below. 

Frankaboutcroatia.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites. This post might also contain affiliate links to other sites, like accommodation or activities. And if you purchase anything using these links, we earn a little commission with no extra costs for you. Thank you for supporting our blog! Read full disclaimer here.

Home / Croatia Travel Tips / Ultimate packing list for vacation in Croatia

16 thoughts on “Ultimate packing list for vacation in Croatia”

traveling for first time in Europe with teenage son. Need his laptop to work due to missing lots of school. I read a converter plug for C and F. Having a hard time finding one with both C and F. Do I need to buy one of each? Also what is best for I phone charging.

We are traveling to Croatia in the spring. I have celiac disease. How hard is it to find gluten free food?

Hi Christine, in better restaurants, smart casual should be fine, and casual for the rest.

Hi Frank, Your blog has been fantastic in our prep for our trip. In planning what to bring, what is the typical dress code for evening dining in Croatia? Thanks, Christine

Thanks for the packing list! We are driving to Novigrad this weekend from Italy. Our family is stationed here for the next few years. Anything we should know (tolls, etc) about the trip? Also, we are bringing our dog. Italy is super friendly with pets and I was wondering if Croatia was the same. TIA!

Hi,, we are traveling to Croatia on 29th August, , we are staying at the lone hotel in rovinj,, we want to go to the caves in postojna and see the lipzzanrer horses, , are we better to do any organised trip , or do it ourselves, , can you recommend, any other things of interest, we went to dubrovnik last year we absolutely loved it ,, so next year we are thinking doing about 18 nights nights stopping in different places, , can you give us any tips ,, on car hire,, where to start and finish ,, many thanks Andrea

Hi Hiro, thanks for stopping by. How was your trip?

Leaving from Croatia, Slovenia, and Hungary next week for two weeks. Is it OK for seniors to wear shorts if weather is warm? Or it that frowned upon? (In Dubrovnik, Budapest?) Thank you for any assistance you can provide. Hiro

Thanks Maja! ANd so true about autumn clothes we all needed this summer. What a terrible weather we had. I still cannot believe that the summer is almost gone, and we haven’t even gotten hot. I’ve checked your blog. And love it too. How long have you been in Croatia?

I love the post. This summer everybody needed an umbrella and autumn clothes too :(

Thanks for stopping by, Joe! I am also a guy who travels with way too much photo equipment. But with 8 camera bags, you beat just about anybody else :). This Outlander backpack is really handy, it takes so little space in a suitcase.

Thanks for stopping by, Liz! Yes, water shoes are definitely a must-have for beaches in Croatia. As for towels, my in-laws rent apartments, and surprisingly provide beach towels to their guests. However, I don’t think many property owners do, not even big hotels. You normally pay to use a beach towel.

Thanks for helping in packing. I already visited Croatia, but I love to visit again as I loved sailing and visiting isolated islands in Croatia. I realized that Croatia is a safe country for traveling. As my plans were different, to hire a yacht, so I hired Adriatic Challenge Yacht providers (www.adriatic-challenge.com) and it was completely safe and I really enjoyed my holidays.

Hi Frank, Thanks for sharing – its very similar to the recommendations I give my customers. I absolutely agree with the need for water shoes/jelly shoes, it my number one top tip! And the beach towel thing – I never thought about it until a group of my customers complained, now its on my Balkans Undiscovered must-pack travel list too :) Keep up the good work! Liz

Very dangerous for me to read these types of articles because I have a major bag fetish (says they guy with 8 camera bags) and don’t get me started on my hiking backpacks. So, now I must try this Outlander.

I’m totally getting one of those outlander day packs, just…. once I’ve paid my credit card bill ;)

Leave a Comment

Essential Croatia Packing List: What to Wear & Pack for Croatia

The secret is out about Croatia, and it’s one of the most visited countries in all the Balkans. In 2018, Croatia had 18.4 million tourists, staying a total of 110.275 million nights – so it’s safe to say that Croatia is no longer off the beaten path.

But with over 6,000 kilometers of coastline and over a thousand islands, it’s easy enough to escape the crowds if you need to and find your own little slice of paradise in Croatia (you just won’t find it in Dubrovnik ).

What to pack for Croatia largely depends on what you’ll end up doing there. If you’re planning a beachy summer vacation or planning to road trip and hike to the prettiest Croatian waterfalls, those are two very different trips, and we’d give you two very different answers about what to wear in Croatia for those two scenarios.

We’ve covered basically every contingency imaginable on this ultimate Croatia packing list. You shouldn’t pack every single item on this list, of course, but mix and match what works for you given the season you are visiting and what you’re planning to do. while in Croatia.

Ready? Here’s what to bring to Croatia on your vacation!

Can’t read now? Pin for later!

Where to Stay in Croatia

Here are our recommendations for where to stay in  Dubrovnik.  We’re in the process of creating comprehensive guides on where to stay in other Croatian cities, but for now, we recommend checking out  Booking.com  as early as possible since this is a popular time to visit. These are some of the places we suggest you check.

Budget:   Apartment Larica Miha Pracata  is a historic building in the heart of Dubrovnik Old Town. You can easily leave your apartment and instantly be at some of the best architectural and historical attractions Dubrovnik has to offer.  Check out prices and availability at Apartment Larica Miha Pracata .

Mid-range:   Soleil Luxury Rooms  offers some of the most modern amenities you will find in the Old Town of Dubrovnik.  Check out guest reviews, prices, and availability at Soleil Luxury Rooms Old Town .

Luxury:   Boutique Hotel Stari Grad  showcases elegant style and you can see plenty of designer accents all over the hotel. The interiors and arrangement of all furniture are well-executed, creating a comfortable and cozy place to stay in the Old Town of Dubrovnik.  Check out guest reviews, prices, and availability at Boutique Hotel Stari Grad .

What to Pack Everything In

While most people think about what to wear in Croatia as the most important part of their packing list, the actual most important decisions come way before that. You’ll set yourself up for success if you have the right bags – and this means everything from your main suitcase down to the small organizational bags that keep everything nice and tidy.

Here’s everything we use to keep our stuff organized on the road, with recommendations for what to bring with you for different kinds of trips.

Your Main Bag: Backpack of Rolling Suitcase?

This is the first major packing decision you’ll make before your trip starts.

Personally, Stephanie and I both prefer traveling around Croatia with a backpack. Dubrovnik, Zagreb, Hvar, and many other old towns in Croatia have large swaths of cobblestone streets which can be a nightmare for suitcases, especially when curbs have no easy onramp (something that happens a lot in old cities!)

I’ve never traveled to Croatia with a rolling suitcase, but judging from my experience with a rolling suitcase on other Balkan trips, I wouldn’t recommend it unless you are doing a bus tour or if you have a rental car.

If wearing a backpack is not feasible for you due to mobility limitations or comfort – or you simply are planning to pack a lot of stuff! – it is perfectly possible to travel with a rolling suitcase around Croatia, it just may require a bit more effort. For longer distances between bus/train stations and ferry terminals and hotels, you may want to spend the extra for a taxi, especially in the summer heat!

Our Top Recommendations for Backpacks

I absolutely love the Tortuga Backpack for traveling the Balkans, and it’s my go-to bag for virtually any trip I take in the region that’s longer than a week. I carry a  Tortuga 45L Backpack because it’s compact, carry-on friendly, and doesn’t scream “backpacker” as loudly as other bags.

It has 3 main compartments: one with a laptop sleeve that can also accommodate other flat objects like important papers and books, one giant rectangular compartment ideal for packing cubes filled with your clothes, and one smaller compartment with organizers for passports, pens, odds & ends, etc. – plus one small outer zipper pocket for anything you want quick access to.

It also has a water bottle holder on the outside as well as buckles so that you can strap something like a yoga mat to the outside if needed. Plus, it’s quite comfortable to wear, with a padded hip belt and comfort-molding shoulder straps complete with a chest strap so that you can distribute the weight perfectly across your body if you need to wear your backpack for longer than usual. 

Check out more specs, prices, and details for the women’s backpack and for the men’s .

Our Top Recommendations for Rolling Suitcases

If you are going to bring a roller bag, I suggest getting a soft shell that you can squish. Stephanie’s personal roller suitcase is the awesome Osprey Sojourn .

Steph lived out of just this bag and a backpack for eight months and brought it to Croatia and lived to tell the tale. She likes that it can squish into the back of buses and fit on train luggage racks easily.

It expands to hold a ton of stuff if you plan to shop a lot while in Croatia (where you can find some awesome souvenirs !). You can  check prices and reviews here .

Your Daybag: Backpack or Purse?

Your day bag should be able to hold all the things you need for the day: water, sunscreen, wallet, any medicine or make-up you may need, a layer in case the weather changes, camera, etc.

It depends what you prefer, but for comfort, a backpack is usually the better day bag because it distributes weight more evenly across your shoulders. However, if you’re used to carrying a purse, that may be what you prefer.

We recommend investing in a day bag with some security features, not because Croatia is dangerous (your risk of being pickpocketed here is definitely lower than in major Western European cities), but just because travel to touristic places inherently has its risks and we prefer to protect ourselves upfront rather than deal with consequences down the line.

>> Rad Next: 17 Croatian Souvenirs too Fabulous to Leave Without <<

We both carry the  CitySafe backpack by PacSafe  not only on our travels but in our day-to-day lives. It’s cute, it’s functional, it’s comfortable, and it’s secure as hell. 

We’re talking about interlocking zippers (which you can then put through a second clasp for two layers of security), slash-proof wire mesh construction, and RFID blockers to keep your personal data safe.

It’s neutral enough to be unisex, it’s roomy enough to fit a small laptop, large camera, and tons of odds & ends, and it fits under the plane seat in front of you. Plus, it transitions pretty well from day to night (as long as you aren’t heading to a club). 

What else could you want? This isn’t sponsored, we’re just straight obsessed (Steph bought hers after seeing mine in action and hearing me rave about it, and she’s also been converted).  Get yours today.

Our Top Recommendations for Purses

Due to our everlasting obsession with our travel backpack, neither Stephanie nor I really carry purses much for our travels.

However, Steph always brings her  large Longchamp bag  with her for when she wants to use a purse instead of a backpack. For two years, it was her main day bag on all her trips, and it still has a place in her heart. 

What she loves about her Longchamp is that it’s durable, stylish, and can fit most of what she needs for a day of sightseeing, yet it also looks totally normal at a performance or a nice restaurant. 

Since it rolls up to almost nothing, she can still bring it with her even on trips where she uses her backpack, so it’s the best of both worlds!  Check prices and reviews here.

If you want a smaller purse than the Longchamp, check out some of the other purses from PacSafe. Due to our satisfaction with our CitySafe backpack, we’d definitely recommend other PacSafe products like their secure purses – they have  shoulder bags  and  crossbody bags .

Moneybelt Recommendations

Personally, we don’t carry money belts, since we carry secure bags, but we know some travelers feel a lot safer with a money belt. If that’s you,  this  is the money belt we recommend.

How to Keep it Organized

Just because you have the right suitcase and day bag doesn’t mean your bags will be packed right. You need to think about how you’ll organize your belongings so that everything is accessible and compact.

Packing Cubes

I don’t know how I traveled before packing cubes, and I never want to go back!  Packing cubes  are extremely helpful for organizing your luggage and keeping it that way so that when you want to extract one shirt from your bag, you don’t end up exploding your whole bag open.

I have used several different brands of packing cubes, and I prefer durable ones. I use the big one for dresses, skirts, and jeans, the medium one for t-shirts, and the small one for underwear, bras, socks, etc.

Cosmetic Bags

A set of cosmetic bags are so useful! In addition to using it for your make-up, you can also use them to stash odds & ends like earplugs, an eye-mask, pens & pencils – things that usually get lost at the bottom of your bag.

I like to have one for makeup, one for hair accessories, one for toiletries, and one for cables and electronic accessories. 

If you don’t have a bunch of cosmetic bags lying around from old make-up purchases, you can pick some up off Amazon. I think  these  are particularly adorable.

Pack-It Flat

This is one of my favorite packing finds! The  Pack-it-Flat toiletry bag  is the ultimate way to keep all your toiletries packed.

What I love about is is that it packs, well, flat like a book, rather than most toiletry bags which make big bulky squares that take up way too much space and are annoying to deal with. This is a definite upgrade from my cosmetic bag system, which took up too much space and was completely disorganized 

Travel Wallet

A good travel wallet meets a few criteria: RFID blocking, plenty of room for coins, room for bills and receipts, plenty of card slots, and can fit a passport.

I use a PacSafe travel wallet that does all of that and looks cute doing so (I chose the denim).

Laundry Bag

Whether you’ll need to do laundry on the road or you’ll wait to do it at home, it’s essential to have a bag to keep your dirty laundry separate from your clean clothes.

While that can easily be just a grocery bag, I love this  cute travel-themed Kikkerland laundry bag  which is easy to hand over to someone on laundry day.

Canvas Tote

We recommend bringing a tote with you wherever you go to reduce plastic waste! Since 2019, Croatia charges a fee for plastic bags to address plastic waste issues, so we recommend bringing your own totes to save money and the environment.

This is also great for doing small errands or when you don’t want to pack your whole day bag, and is absolutely essential for any trip that includes a day at the beach, lake, or pool — which is almost any day in Croatia, frankly!

I use one I bought at Flying Tiger in Milan, but you can find a ton of  cute tote bags  on Amazon.

Ziploc Bags

You’ll thank us for this when all your stuff stays dry your entire trip. I always pack my liquids in a Ziploc bag (plus you need one if you’re traveling with liquids in your carryon). 

Pack all your liquids in Ziploc backs so that if something breaks or opens, the liquid stays inside the bag. Stuff a few extras in your luggage for any liquid purchases or if you need to keep a wet towel separate from the rest of your luggage.

I like to have a mix of  small  and  large  bags so I’m covered in most situations. 

If you don’t live in Europe, you might be surprised just how quickly coins stack up in your bag when traveling around Europe. Croatian kuna can definitely add up and get lost at the bottom of your wallet! In the States, I never bothered with a coin purse, but living in Europe I find that it’s essential. I have one with a flower pattern like  these .

>> Read Next: Your Ultimate 3 Days in Dubrovnik Itinerary <<

5 Essentials You Don’t Want to Forget

If you only read one section of this post, make it this one!

While travel blogs are great, we also definitely see the benefit of having a good paper guidebook in hand to refer to in your on-the-ground travel. If you’re just visiting Croatia, we recommend the ultra-detailed Lonely Planet Croatia . However, if you’re traveling to Croatia and other Balkan countries, we recommend the  Lonely Planet Western Balkans which also includes Slovenia, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Albania, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Kosovo, and Serbia.

Travel Insurance

It’s always a good idea to be covered when you travel abroad in case of theft, illness, or accidents. Steph and I have been paying customers of  World Nomads  for three years and counting and are happy to recommend them to fellow travelers for the clarity of what they cover, the efficiency of processing claims, and the ease of renewing while still on the road if your trip ends up being longer than expected.

Cute Swimwear

I mean, the main reason you’re likely going to Croatia is to soak up the sun, swim in the Adriatic, island-hop, frolic in waterfalls, etc. – so be sure to pack at least two cute swimwear options, if not more, so that you never have to put a wet swimsuit back on! I love this one-piece option and this bikini , but pick whatever you love best and will both feel comfortable and make you feel confident in photos!

Comfortable walking shoes

Croatia is full of hiking opportunities, long sightseeing days, and hilly vistas with beautiful views. It’s easy to do 10,000+ steps in a day (if you’re not relaxing on the beach all day, that is).

Pay close attention to our shoe recommendations below, but don’t order new shoes right before your trip! Give yourself a few weeks to break them in. The earlier you can get any new shoes you need, the more time you’ll have to get them comfy. You don’t want a blister on the road!

I’ve written a whole section on what should be in your mini medicine kit, but this especially goes for any prescription medications you may need from back home. It’s not always possible to get the same exact medication in Croatia, so be sure to stock up on what you need! And don’t forget seasickness/motion sickness pills if you’re sensitive to movement – they’re a lifesaver for buses and ferries.

Traveling to Croatia and having no idea how to get into town? Why not booking this convenient transfer service from the airport to the city center, it’s safe and affordable!

Quick Overview of Weather in Croatia

While many people see Croatia as a summer destination, it’s actually lovely all year round – it just offers different activities.

We’ll describe the weather in Split, as it sort of splits (HA) the difference between places further north (Zagreb) and further south (Dubrovnik) and makes a good middle-ground estimate for the country as a whole.

Generally speaking, the north will be a little cooler than the south, but the coast will always have a breeze that will cut into the temperatures a bit.

Spring in Croatia  warms up significantly from month to month. In March, expect averages of 10° C/51° F. In April, the averages rise to 13° C/56 °F, and by May, averages are around 18° C/ 64°F. It’ll likely be too cold to swim, as the water temperature usually doesn’t rise above 18°C / 64° F. Bring your rain jacket, as you can expect at least some rain about 25% of the days, but you’ll find beautiful sunny days in between.

Summer in Croatia  is nothing short of hot! June is usually mild, with averages around 21° C / 70° F, but July and August, daytime highs sit around 30 °C (86 °F), which can be daunting when you’re climbing fortresses, roasting on beaches, and sightseeing outside all day. Luckily, by now the water is a relaxing 24° C (75° F) so it’s the perfect temperature for a dip!

There will still be a handful of summer rainy days here and there (usually around 5 per month) to help cool you off as well, so an umbrella is key here as a rain jacket will be too hot. These showers usually last a few hours and do not typically last for most of the day.

>> Read Next: 9 Great Sandy Beaches in Croatia To Enjoy <<

Autumn in Croatia is beautiful, but keep in mind that the weather will turn chilly by the end of October and the swimming season ends rapidly.

September is a great time to visit Croatia as school holidays are over and families won’t be crowding the beaches, but you’ll still have average temperatures around 21° C (70° F) and lovely warm water.

In October, the average dips down to 17° C (62° F), with lows of 12 °C (52 °F) and highs of 21° C (70° C) possible. The water quickly gets too cold to swim comfortably. By November, you’re looking at lows of 8° C / 46° F, with averages being closer to 12° C/54° F. Make sure to pack your rain jacket, since Croatia in fall can be drizzly!

Winter in Croatia  is actually not so cold, but you’ll want to be prepared anyway with layers and proper clothing. The winter weather in Croatia is pretty stable, usually around 7° C / 46° F. Average lows dip down to just above freezing, around 4° C / 39° F, so you’ll definitely want a jacket, but you may also experience a few warm-ish days up to 12° C/ 54° F.

If your plan is to sightsee, keep in mind that you should dress to feel much colder since you will be outside for long periods of time!

What to Wear in Croatia For Women 

What you should wear in Croatia depends a ton on what activities you do, just as much (if not more so!) than the season.

If you’re just island-hopping, you’ll be fine in some swimsuits, cover-ups, sun hats, and sandals. If you’re hopping from city to city with some beach time too, you’ll want to throw in some comfortable walking shoes, stylish yet comfortable dresses, etc. If you’ll be active like kayaking or hiking, some sporty clothes will be an important addition.

We like to mix it up with dresses, skirts, casual tops with jeans, and lots of outfits with leggings. We tend to avoid shorts except if we’re on islands or super-beachy destinations, as most locals don’t wear shorts and you’re bound to stick out as a tourist if you do (but then again, you’ll be one of nearly 20 million tourists, and sometimes it’s truly too hot to care!)

We’ve created two separate packing lists: one for spring through fall, one for winter. You may want to adjust the packing list slightly depending on the season.

For example, you may decide to leave the heavier jacket at home in the heat of summer, and swap a summery maxi dress for extra leggings in spring or fall. However, there’s enough overlap that we’ve combined it all into one spring/summer/fall list.

What to Pack for Spring, Summer, & Fall in Croatia

2-3 tank tops : Great for layering, and you may want to add a few more in the summer. We like  these ones .

2-3 V-neck shirts:  In case you want a little more coverage, or if you’re traveling in spring/fall, these are also great multi-purpose separates. We recommend  these ones . I also love to have a simple  striped T  like this one.

2 long sleeve shirts (fall/spring only) : You won’t need these in the summer, but in fall, they’re wonderful to have. We recommend  these ones .

1 chambray shirt:  Perfect to wear as a shirt in spring/fall or to wear unbuttoned as a light jacket on a summer night –  this shirt  is so versatile that it’s become my packing must-have.

1 mid-weight jacket : There can be some surprising weather sometimes even in the summer in Croatia, so I still recommend one medium-weight jacket like this  denim jacket  or a  faux leather jacket in case your chambray isn’t warm enough.

2 pairs shorts (summer only):  You likely won’t need these in the fall or spring. For summer, I recommend 1 loose pair of  linen shorts  and 1 pair  denim shorts .

Lightweight scarf : Great for too much A/C, surprisingly chilly nights, surprise church visits, or dressing up an outfit you’ve worn too many times. We like  this one  for all the color choices.

Black cardigan:  Great for cool nights in summer and dressing up fall and spring outfits; we suggest  this one .

2-3 pairs black leggings:  I love leggings so much – for sleeping, for lazy days, to avoid chub rub, to make a summer dress fall appropriate, to wear on active days when doing things like kayaking or hiking. We recommend bringing a few pairs if you can  (we suggest these) .

1-2 pairs skinny jeans:  1 in summer, 2 in fall or spring. We like  these ones , but jeans are so personal, so bring your favorites.

2-3 skirts:  We love skirts for travel! In summer, I love  midi skirts  and  maxi skirts , whereas in spring and fall, I prefer  mini skirts  that I can wear with leggings and boots. If you’re an avid Instagrammer, we love this ultra-photogenic maxi skirt .

2-3 summer dresses:  I try to buy dresses that are great for summer but can transition well to fall and spring with the right accessories. We think  this one  and  this one  are super cute!

Maxi dress (summer only) : I love maxi dresses for summer, but they don’t transition as well as shorter dresses for fall. Here’s a  simple black one  we like, and we also love this colorful maxi dress for livening up your photos.

Shoes & Sandals

Travel sandals:  Depending on what you’ll do in Croatia. If you’re just going to be walking around the cities, I love  Birkenstocks  and live in them about half of the year. If you’re going to the beach, pool/spa, or staying in a hostel, also add on a pair of simple  rubber flip flops that you can get wet.

Comfortable but cute sneakers:  Gone are the days where I can comfortably wear flats for a day of heavy sightseeing! I strongly recommend a stylish pair of sneakers like  these black Nike running shoes  for your busiest city days and active days like visiting one of Croatia’s 8 national parks.

Ankle boots:  I definitely recommend a water-resistant pair of ankle boots for rainy days, cold weather, or going out at night if you want a more dressed-up option. These  Teva ankle boots  are adorable yet comfortable.

No-show socks:  Nothing worse than socks that clash with your shoes! We like  these no-show socks .

8+ pairs underwear:  Bring one pair for every day of travel you want to go without doing laundry, plus one extra. If you need new travel undies, we recommend these comfy  quick-dry ones .

2-3 bras:  Depending on your needs and activity levels. I usually bring 1 bra and one bralette, but if you’re active you may want a sports bra or if you like to wear backless or strapless tops/dresses you may want adhesive or strapless bras. If you want a quick-dry travel bra, we recommend  this one .

Sleepwear:  I personally love having dedicated sleepwear – this  silky pajama set  is so comfortable!

Jewelry & Accessories

Headbands : Great for keeping hair out of your face or hiding greasy or salty hair if you need to (and in Croatia in the summer, you’ll probably experience both!)! We think  these  are ultra-cute.

Jewelry : Pick cheap statement jewelry and leave heirlooms or expensive jewelry at home. Theft is relatively uncommon in Croatia, but it’s better to make yourself inconspicuous.

>> Read Next: How to Visit the Dubrovnik Christmas Market & Dubrovnik Winter Festival <<

What to Pack for Winter in Croatia

2 long sleeve shirts:  Great for layering with skirts and leggings or jeans. We recommend  these ones .

2 pairs skinny jeans:  We like  these ones , but bring your favorites that are already broken in if you have them. A little looser is better so you can fit an extra pair of leggings underneath if it’s super cold.

2 sweater dresses:  I love cute sweater dresses  like this one  for cold winter days.

2-3 skirts : I prefer above-the-knee skirts that I can easily pair with leggings in winter.

3+ pairs warm leggings:  I personally wear  fleece-lined leggings  nearly all winter long because I’m sensitive to wool. However, merino wool is ultra-warm (and non-microbial and odor-resistant) so I recommend a pair of  merino wool leggings  if your skin can handle wool.

1 ultra-warm parka:  With low temperatures just above freezing, and occasional dips below freezing possible, don’t forget a warm enough jacket. If you’ll travel in winter frequently, I recommend a winter jacket like this  North Face parka . It’s a little pricy, but it literally comes with a lifetime guarantee and they will repair or replace it for free if you ever have any issues with your coat. I’ve owned mine for nearly a decade.

Ultra-light down jacket:  For less cold days or for layering it underneath your parka for the truly cold days. This rolls up and packs easily in your day bag so it’s good to bring along – I have one  really similar to this .

Ankle boots:  For cold weather shoes that are still good for going out at night, we suggest these  Teva ankle boots .

Waterproof leather boots : For snowy days and super cold weather when you still want to be comfortable, I love these  knee-high Blondo boots  and have owned them for over a decade.

Snow boots (optional):  If you want a dedicated snow boot – we suggest  these ones .

6+ pairs wool socks:  Wool socks will keep your feet so much warmer than your standard cotton socks! We suggest these  affordable yet cozy socks .

8+ pairs underwear:  Bring one pair for every day of travel you want to go without doing laundry, plus one extra. If you want underwear specifically made for travel, we recommend these comfy  quick-dry ones .

2-3 bras:  Depending on your needs and activity levels. I usually bring 1 bra and one bralette, but if you’re active you may want a sports bra too. If you want a quick-dry travel bra, we recommend  this one .

Winter scarf:  Croatia can get cold in the winter, so you’ll definitely want a warm winter scarf  like this one .

Touchscreen gloves:  You’ll want to cover your fingers and still be able to use your favorite touchscreen devices, so we recommend  gloves like these  which are compatible with your smartphone.

Fleece-lined knit hat : You lose a lot of heat from the top of your head and ears, so a  fleece-lined knit hat  that you wear tight, like a beanie, is a fantastic choice. Pick a colorful one for cute photos!

Jewelry : Go with inexpensive statement jewelry and leave heirlooms or expensive jewelry at home. 

What to Wear in Croatia for Men 

Croatian men tend to dress smartly in the cities, especially compared to Americans and Canadians. Avoid khaki shorts and white sneakers that scream “tourist,” which can also be a safety hazard in cities where pickpockets target people who look like oblivious westerners.

Instead of dressing like you just left boy scout camp, think sophisticated European style. Obviously, if you’ll be spending most of your time on the beach and island hopping, you can relax the dress code quite a bit.

Keeping in mind which season you’ll be visiting in (and our overview of the weather in Croatia above), here’s what we suggest. Adjust the items and layers slightly to better match the season. 

4-5 everyday shirts:  Whether your go-to everyday shirt is a  t-shirt , a  polo shirt , or something with a bit more style, bring enough that you can go with only doing laundry twice a week. Make a few of these long sleeve shirts in early spring and in the autumn, but during summer long sleeves aren’t necessary. 

1-2 collared shirt:  Bring a nice collared shirt, like this  Oxford shirt , for a date night, if you decide to go to a performance, or even just to enjoy a bit of a fancier night on the town.

If you’re traveling single, this will also come in handy for going out, though you might want to make it something that can go from sightseeing to the club.

3-4 undershirts:  If you wear  undershirts , bring them. Expect to be doing laundry 1-2 times per week during your trip, so bring enough to cover half a week (plus you’ll be wearing one as well).

1-2 pairs of shorts:  Summer in Croatia can be brutally hot, and in this situation, you will be happy to have some shorts. Just avoid shorts that look overly touristy. We think something like these  jean shorts  would work. Again, avoiding khaki shorts with giant cargo pockets is for safety (but it’s also about fitting in). 

The cut and style of the shorts you choose will really make a difference in how Europeans perceive you, but remember that men in Europe rarely wear shorts. Therefore, all shorts are statement shorts (and the statement that you’re making, typically, is  rob me ).

2 pairs of jeans:  The sophisticated-yet-still-fun older brother of the jean short, this is what most tourists in Europe end up wearing to fit in yet still be comfortable – even in summer. While European men wear slacks or dress pants more than jeans, a crisp pair of jeans is almost always acceptable. While we always appreciate a good dad jean, for Europe think more of a relaxed fit like these  Levi’s . 

1 pair of wrinkle-free dress pants:  While you can wear ironed jeans out on a nice evening, you’ll probably feel more comfortable wearing a nicer pair of slacks. Get one with a wrinkle-free fabric  like these  so you don’t have to worry if your accommodations don’t have an iron handy. 

1 medium-weight jacket that can handle rain:  There can be some surprising weather sometimes even in the summer in Croatia, so bring a jacket that can handle rain and a bit of wind. We like this  Columbia rain jacket.

1-2 pairs of swim trunks:  This is dependant on your itinerary, but I think it’s always a good idea to bring something to swim in – even if you think you won’t need it. Whether you spend time on the beaches of the coast and islands or just want to enjoy the pool at your hotel, it’s nice to be able to relax a bit. 

Note that many older men will opt for the Speedo. This is one area where we do not recommend a North American tourist to try to fit in!

You can choose to show a bit of your personality in your swimwear, by going either super traditional like  these trunks  or something with a bit more flair, like these  pineapple swim trunks.

Travel Sandals:  If you’ll be in Croatia during the summer, sandals are a great idea, especially if you’ll be spending time walking around the cities. Consider a sports sandal like these  leather athletic sandals  or a pair of   Birkenstocks .

If you’re headed to the beach or even just a communal shower in a hostel or gym, you also need to pack a pair of  rubber flip-flops.

Comfortable Sneakers or Walking Shoes:  If you’ll be doing a lot of sightseeing (and most likely, you will be) bring a pair of functional shoes that can support your feet at the end of a long day. We suggest getting a pair of  Chuck Taylor’s  (avoid white pairs) or something like these  Sketchers . 

Boots:  If you’ll be doing a lot of hiking in Croatia, bring a pair of sturdy hiking boots like these  Keen Waterproof Hiking Boots.  If you’ll be walking around doing mostly normal sightseeing, opt for something like these  Timberlands  instead. 

Dress Shoes:  You don’t need something super fancy, but if you are planning to have a nice night on the town with your partner then you should bring a pair of shoes that will go with a slightly nicer outfit. For example, these  Oxford sneakers  will transition better from day-to-night than a typical sneaker will. 

Underwear & Socks

7-8 Pairs of Underwear:  While we expect you’ll be doing laundry once or twice a week, it’s nice to be able to go an entire week with clean underwear if you need to. If you want to invest in a few new pairs, get something like these  quick-dry boxer briefs  so that when you do hang your laundry to dry, they dry quickly. 

7-8 Pairs of Socks:  Only you know if you like your socks with a bit of flair or if you’re a socks-blend-in kind of guy. If you want no-show socks, get something like these  quick-drying ones . No one wants to put on socks that didn’t get completely dry before an entire day of sightseeing.

1-2 tee shirt and shorts for sleeping:  Whatever you sleep in, bring one or two. If you sleep naked, don’t book a room in a hostel dorm, please. (Yes, this has happened.) This  pajama set  will keep you from getting in trouble in any shared sleeping situation.  

Wrist Watch:  If you’re a watch guy, bring it. Unless it’s a super expensive watch or a family heirloom. In that case, leave it at home and use your cell phone to tell time. 

Any personal jewelry:  If you wear jewelry, bring it, especially if it’s an important item like your wedding ring. However, anything that’s a family heirloom or insanely valuable, leave at home.

1-2 Hats:  If you don’t feel dressed without a baseball cap or hat, bring one or two options. 

Use the packing list for spring, summer, and fall section above as a guide, but with the following additions and substitutions. 

A Winter Coat:  Upgrade the rain jacket to a real winter coat. Remember that when you’re traveling somewhere new, you will spend significantly more of your day outside than if you are working or living somewhere. We suggest something like this  North Face Parka  which will last for decades.

1-2 Wool Baselayers:  The key to dressing for winter in Croatia is layers. You want to be able to get warmer when needed, and then be able to remove the layers if the weather changes or you go into a building that’s way overheated. Adding a  wool base layer  under your shirt is a great way to get some extra warmth in that will breathe

Long Underwear:  You can make your jeans sightseeing-in-winter ready by pairing them with some  long underwear. 

1-2 Sweaters:  Another great way to add in an extra layer is to wear a light sweater over your shirt, giving you a bit more warmth with an option to still put your coat on if you need even more. We like these  v-neck pullover sweaters.

Waterproof Leather Boots:  Upgrade your boots to the waterproof variety, like these  Timberlands . Trust us, nothing is worth than walking eight miles sightseeing on cobblestone streets in waterlogged shoes.

Waterproof Sneakers:  If you still want to spend your days in sneakers, get a waterproof pair like these  Columbia Waterproof hiking boots.

Snow Boots (optional):  While not really necessary for most of Croatia, if you’ll be visiting a ski resort like Samobor, you’ll probably want some snow boots. We like  these from Sorel.

7-8 pairs of wool socks:  Upgrade you regular socks to warm,  wool socks  to keep your toes toasty warm even when it’s freezing out. 

Flannel Pajamas:  Upgrade your t-shirt and shorts to  flannel pajamas . This is especially important if you’ll be staying in hostels or hotels in historic buildings. 

Winter Scarf:  Add a  thick cable knit scarf  or  cashmere scarf  to keep the wind out. 

Waterproof Touch-Screen Gloves:  You probably know that you’re going to want gloves, but there are a few finer points to consider. You’ll want waterproof gloves in case it’s snowing, and touchscreen capabilities so that you can continue to take photos and navigate with your cell phone. Check out this affordable pair from  Finger Ten.

Fleece-Lined Knit Hat:  Don’t waste your time bringing any winter beanie. Get one that’s lined with fleece to keep as much of your warmth as possible. We like this one from  LETHMIK . 

Toiletries 

While you can pick up a lot of this once you’re here, we don’t like spending a ton of time on errands once we are in Croatia. Instead, we like to spend our time exploring!

Keep in mind if you’ll be staying in smaller towns or villages, you may not have quick access to a store after hours.

Toiletries for Women

We’ve outlined everything we typically bring. However, we usually bring travel-size versions so this doesn’t take up much room in our backpacks. It would be traumatic and heavy to carry around full-size bottles of liquids in a backpack.

Hair Care & Bathing

Shampoo & conditioner:  I love shampoo bars personally since I try to pack carry-on only and reduce my plastic consumption. I like the ones from LUSH as well as  these from Amazon .

Dry shampoo : We all have those days when showering is hard – dry shampoo will perk up any oily locks.

Brush or comb : Whatever you use – I like this  small travel-sized one .

Hair ties:  If you have long hair, you’ll likely want some  hair ties .

Hairdryer & straightener : Optional, but if you do your hair at home, you’ll probably want this when you travel as well. If you’re coming from outside of Europe, you’ll want dual voltage.

GoToobs : For your favorite shampoo/conditioner or body wash/lotion from home, I love these squeezy silicon  GoToobs .

Body wash and lotion:  Either full-size or in carry-on-sized containers like above.

Moisturizer:  Travel will beat your skin up. If you use moisturizer at home, bring it. If you’ve never used  moisturizer  before, you really should start. You’ll be happy to give your face a boost before heading outside all day. 

Facewash:  For washing all the dirt, dust, smog, sweat, and other travel-related impurities off your face at the end of the day. Make sure you bring a travel-sized version, like this travel  Clean & Clear.  

Tweezers:  For emergency chin hair situations and the like – you know what I mean. I always carry  tweezers like these .

Sunscreen:  You can buy sunscreen here, but it’s likely cheaper at home or bought  online  in advance. I love this  solid Neutrogena sunscreen . Who doesn’t love a good solid for liquid swap? Great to keep in your bag without worrying about sunscreen explosions

Razor & refills:  It’s not always easy to find your brand on the road. I use Venus and I can’t always find it every place I shop, so I’d suggest bringing from home. Here are the  razor  +  refill cartridges .

Anti-chafe balm:  If you have thick thighs and are traveling in summer,  this stuff  works miracles!  Vaseline  also works great.

Foundation:  I love this  Benefit Oxygen foundation  because it doesn’t make me break out and it’s very lightweight coverage with a bit of SPF.

Mascara : I love  Urban Decay , but YMMV.

Blush:  I prefer creme/gel to powder to avoid breakage and subsequent messes– I suggest this awesome  Tarte cheek stain .

Red matte lip stain:  Red lipstick is our ultimate travel hack. I use the  matte lip stain from Sephora  and it works a dream and lasts for ages.

Concealer:  I swear by  Make-up For Ever concealer  – it’s the best I’ve ever used, and I used to struggle with serious acne.

Dental care

Toothbrush : I have a  small folding toothbrush  and I love it for travel, as I always break or lose the clip-on caps.

Toothpaste:  Whatever you use at home will do! Steph’s mother, who’s a dental hygienist, keeps her stocked with travel-sized tubes of  Sensodyne . 

Floss:  Because your mother will know if you don’t use  floss . (Or at least Steph’s will). 

Sunglasses : Either prescription or regular, depending on needs

Reading glasses:  If needed.

Glasses : If needed. If you have a backup pair, it’s nice to have two in case one pair breaks. (Or be able to switch between a pair of glasses and contacts).

Hard Glasses Case:  If you bring glasses or sunglasses, have a hard-shell case  like this one  to keep them safe when you’re not wearing them. Travel can beat up your glasses if you don’t store them properly. Remember that if you have very large or wide glasses, you might need a larger case. 

Contacts & saline solution:  If needed. Note that saline solution is considered a medical supply and you are allowed to bring more than 100 ml in a carry-on. Make sure that your contact case has screw tops  like this one  and is not the kind that just snaps shut. Otherwise, you might find yourself with lost contacts. 

Note that if you typically wear contacts, it’s a good idea to bring a backup pair of glasses in case you hurt your eyes. This happened to me on a trip to NYC once, and I had to wear my prescription sunglasses all weekend since I couldn’t get my contacts in my eyes (and forgot my glasses). 

If you’re flying transatlantic, keep your glasses in your carry-on. Long flights tend to dry out your eyes, and you’ll be happy to have the option to switch to glasses if the need arises. 

Personal Care

Whatever you need for your period:  I personally prefer a  Diva Cup  as it’s reusable, eco-friendly, comfortable, and can be worn for up to 12 hours at a time. Others may prefer tampons or pads. Bring whatever you need to feel comfortable, as you may not find your exact brand in Croatia.

Condoms and/or other birth control methods:  If you may have a little… romance in Croatia, bring your own birth control methods, whether that’s condoms, birth control pills, or something else.

>> Read Next: The Best Hotels & Accommodations in Dubrovnik Old Town <<

Toiletries for Men

While we know that men and women travel with many of the same toiletries, there are typically (though not always) a few differences. 

Shampoo & Conditioner:  While some guys don’t mind using whatever shampoo comes with the hotel, we know that many of you guys are way more particular than that. If you have a very specific shampoo preference, bring it with you. 

If you want to minimize your plastic use, pick up a shampoo bar like the ones at LUSH or  these ones from Amazon . 

Also, it’s possible that your accommodations won’t provide shampoo and conditioner. Check ahead. Worst case scenario, you can pick some up in Croatia.

Brush or Comb:  I like traveling with a  travel hairbrush , but if you prefer combs then I wouldn’t worry about getting a smaller version since it will lay flat in your bag.

Hair Accessories:  If you have a particular hairstyle that needs accessories, bring a few. 

Hair Products:  If there’s a hair product that you use every day, bring it. Keep in mind airline carry-on restrictions for liquids. 

GoToobs : For your favorite shampoo/conditioner or body wash/lotion from home pick up some  GoToobs .

Moisturizer:  Travel will beat your skin up. If you use a moisturizer at home, bring it. If you’ve never used  a moisturizer  before, you really should start. You’ll be happy to give your face a boost before heading outside all day. 

Tweezers:  For emergency splinters, etc. I always carry  tweezers like these .

Sunscreen:  You can buy sunscreen here in Croatia, but I suggest you buy the good stuff from recognizable brands or better yet, buy it  online  in advance. I love this  solid Neutrogena sunscreen . Who doesn’t love a good solid for liquid swap? Great to keep in your bag without worrying about sunscreen explosions

Razor & refills:  We know that the type of razor you use is very particular. If you use an electronic razor and live in North America, keep in mind that the voltage in Europe will fry your razor.

We suggest bringing a good handheld razor instead, like the  Gillette Fusion5 and a few extra razor blades .

If you prefer to get a shave with a straight razor at a barbershop, you will be able to find barbers in all major Croatian cities. However, we can’t vouch for language barriers, since these kinds of shops rarely get tourists. 

Anti-chafe balm:  If you tend to chafe when you get sweaty,  this stuff  works miracles!  Vaseline also works great. Keep in mind that you will be walking in the heat for long periods of time in summer, so if you’ve EVER chafed it’s better to be safe than ruin your vacation. 

We know some men wear make-up every day and look fabulous doing it. We don’t have product recommendations for men’s make-up looks but bring what you love from home. Just keep in mind liquid limitations on airplanes and try to minimize your makeup kit to the smallest workable version. 

Toothbrush : This  small folding toothbrush  will keep your teeth clean and your bag light.

It’s important to plan ahead for your personal needs before you leave for your trip. This means packing condoms or the preferred birth control methods of you and your partner.

If you don’t have a partner traveling with you, but hope to meet one once you’re here, bring condoms from home. The brands here can be different than what you’re used to.

You also want to think about any sex-related prescription drugs you use at home. If you use Viagra at home, bring it with you (but also bring proof that you have a prescription). 

Miscellaneous Items to Pack for Croatia

Reusable water bottle with filter:  While you can drink tap water in most of Croatia, some small islands may not have drinkable tap water. Always ask a local before you try it.

As long as the tap water is not brackish/salty (which has happened to me in Greece), you can purify any water using a filter water bottle like the GRAYL . If you’re sticking to big cities, a regular reusable bottle will do just fine.  This one  is cool because it’s collapsible!

Mini bathroom kit : For poorly stocked bathrooms at bus stops, you’ll be happy you have this! I carry a small  hand sanitizer  and these  wet wipes .

Travel umbrella : Rain is not always predictable in Croatia – have a  small travel umbrella  stashed away for unexpected showers.

Hiking boots: If you plan to come to Croatia to hike, you’ll want your hiking boots! I recommend these  Ahnu hiking boots for women and these  Keen boots  for men.

Trekking poles:  Not needed, but if you like them, you’ll want to bring them. I recommend these  travel-friendly poles .

What to Put in Your Medicine Kit

Pepto-Bismol : This is my favorite medicine for when I have stomach trouble as it’s not as harsh on your stomach as Imodium, but they don’t sell it in most of Europe (I’ve learned this over and over again the hard way).  Bring some from home – I always stock up.

Imodium:  In case of any stomach emergencies (read: diarrhea before a long bus or flight), Imodium is a good option. You can buy it in Croatia, but if you have diarrhea, you probably don’t want to be communicating that to a confused-looking pharmacist.  Bring some from home .

Painkillers:   Aleve  works better for me, but YMMV. I also bring some  Excedrin Migraine  as I’m prone to migraines. 

Pedialyte hydration packs:  Perfect after drunken shenanigans, long hikes, or just plain dehydration because you suck at adulting. Made for kids, but it works just as well for hungover adults. I buy  these ones .

Bandaids:  For blisters, small cuts, breaking in shoes, etc.,  bandaids  are always handy to have.

Tiger balm:  I discovered this is Southeast Asia and left obsessed. It’s great for aftercare for bug bites, nursing headaches, rubbing on aching muscles, and basically anything. You likely won’t find it in Croatia, so  buy it online .

Mosquito repellent:  You can bring ones  with DEET  or  without DEET , or I love having some of these  mosquito repellent wipes  that I can keep in my bag in case I suddenly start to get swarmed and don’t have my regular repellent with me.

Motion sickness pills:  Great for bus rides especially on mountain roads – I buy these  non-drowsy ones . You can also try these  natural motion sickness bands which use acupressure to reduce nausea – they work pretty well.

Technology & Accessories

Camera, lenses, and chargers:  I use a  Sony A6000  with a kit lens and the 18-105mm f4 lens, which is a good starter camera that is lightweight but not quite professional caliber. Steph uses a  Nikon D810  which is better but more expensive and bulkier. If you want a smaller camera for video or adventurous travel, a  GoPro  would be perfect.

Smartphones:  Then again, more and more often, we find ourselves taking photos with our smartphones and leaving our bulky cameras in our bags. I use an  iPhone X  and Steph uses a  Samsung Galaxy.

Kindle:  We love having our  Kindles  with us when we travel, especially in places like Croatia where the selection of English-language books is often small (or non-existent). Keep yours safe in a cover. I use one like  this one.

Laptop and charger: We both use Macs as our travel and work laptops, but if you just want a cheap laptop for travel, a  Chromebook  is a good choice.

Extras for Hostels 

Sleep mask:  Any will do, but for the year or so that I spent living out of hostels, I loved my  contoured sleep mask !

Hearos ear plugs:  I tested many earplugs when I traveled around the world staying in hostels –  Hearos  are the clear winners.

Mini combo locks:  Most hostels will have lockers for you to use, but most do not come with their own locks. I prefer  mini combo locks  to locks with a key as it’s harder to forget your combination than to lose your key.

Travel towel:  Great for hostels where you may have to rent a towel, but we also just recommend  this towel  in general as it’s awesome.

What to Pack for Studying Abroad, Working Abroad, or Homestays

If you’re coming to Croatia to study abroad or you’re going to be doing a homestay with friends or on an official homestay program, there are a few extra items you need to pack.

First, bring a small gift from your home city or country (something that you wouldn’t get anywhere else). For example, if I was coming from Philadelphia to study abroad in Croatia, I’d bring little pins of the Liberty Bell, American Flag pins, or something small that screams “Philadelphia.” These are given to teachers, administrators, friends, and anyone else you think will appreciate a little taste of your home.

For work abroad, bring enough to give to administrators, your higher-ups, and any coworkers. 

For homestays, bring something a bit larger, but you only need one for your host family. So instead of little pins, you might bring a nice snowglobe or a box of candy or local jam. 

When Steph’s family hosted a German exchange student, she brought her a necklace from Germany and a few bars of Milka chocolate for the family. Even though it’s been twenty years, Steph still remembers how delighted she was to get a small piece of Germany!

For these items, small tokens do the trick. Your gifts don’t need to be extravagant. It’s the thought that counts! 

Important Documentation

Make sure you remember to bring these important documents with you when you come to Croatia!

Your Passport  is the most important piece of documentation that you need (they probably won’t let you on the plane without it)! However, just having your passport tucked into your travel wallet isn’t good enough. You need to make copies before you leave.

Scan your passport and email it to yourself. Then print out three hard copies. Hide one in your luggage, one in your day bag, and give one to your emergency contact at home. (You can also email it to this person). 

If you make sure you always have access to a copy of your passport, even in cases where everything is stolen or you don’t have access to the internet, you’ll be able to get an emergency one made if your passport is lost or stolen (or damaged). 

A Passport Holder  to protect your precious passport. Did you know that you can be denied boarding on your flight if your passport has visible damage? I’ve seen it happen, and it doesn’t matter how much you scream at the poor airline employee, they aren’t going to change their mind.

If you’ve taken our advice and will be using a travel wallet during your trip, then keep your passport safe in the passport pocket during your trip. 

If you will be doing a lot of water activities like island hopping, catamaran cruises, and beach days, then you might want to pick up a  waterproof passport holder to make sure your passport doesn’t get ruined during your trip.

Your Travel Insurance Policy Information   in case you need to make a claim during your trip. I like to use the same system as I do with my passport – three hard copies and a soft copy. Make sure your emergency contact has a copy of your insurance policy information as well. In certain (unpleasant) situations, they will need to file the claim on your behalf.

>>  Get a travel insurance quote for your trip here  <<

Driver’s License  for renting a car or driving in Croatia. While you’ll still need to bring your passport with you to pick up your rental car, a driver’s license is required if you want to be allowed to drive the thing. This also works as an ID when you don’t want to take your passport somewhere.

Credit Card & ATM Card Information  in case your cards are lost or stolen. I use the same soft and hard copy system for my cards as I do for my passport and travel insurance information, with one major exception. I don’t send or leave a copy with anyone. 

For your copies, make scans of both the front and back so you have every number you need (including the phone number to call from overseas). 

Student ID or Senior ID  so that you can utilize any available discounts. Some museums and heritage sites have discounts for students and seniors (and it never hurts to ask if one is available).

Tour Confirmations  for any pre-booked activities in case you can’t get internet access for check-in. Where required, you should have printouts of your confirmation, but other companies will allow you to use an electronic ticket or even their app.

This is one reason we book our own activities through  GetYourGuide  -because you can easily organize all your booked tours in their app. 

Accommodation Confirmation  for every place you’re staying. While you can reasonably expect to be able to check-in without producing a copy of your confirmation, bring it anyway in case of an emergency like they’ve lost your reservation or you can’t remember the name of your hotel to give to your taxi driver. That way, you also don’t have to hand over your smartphone to your taxi driver, which can lead to uncomfortable situations at times, especially if you’re a solo woman traveler.

Another reason to make sure you have your hotel information is to make sure that the charges align with what you’ve booked. I’ve been in a situation where I was charged more and had additional fees that were not in my original contract. 

That’s one reason I prefer to use  Booking.com  to book my rooms. They have pretty flexible cancellation policies and I have a number to call for customer service in case there’s a problem. 

Transportation Information  for your flights, buses, trains, and car rentals. I use the app TripIt (see the App section) to organize these things, but you’ll also want to save the emails and print out any tickets or boarding passes before you leave. 

You’ll also want to have the instructions for using ground transportation to your first accommodations, especially if you won’t have data or will be arriving after dark.

>> Read Next: The 8 National Parks in Croatia: Local Favorites & Hidden Gems <<

Books about Croatia

Here are our favorite books about Croatia that you can read before your trip or bring with you while you’re here, plus our recommendation for a great guidebook and travel journal. 

If you’re just visiting Croatia, Lonely Planet Croatia will be perfect. Another option is the Lonely Planet Western Balkans which is great if you’re also visiting any combination of the following countries: North Macedonia, Kosovo, Bosnia, Serbia, Albania, Montenegro, and Slovenia. It can be hard (sometimes impossible) to buy a physical guidebook in English once you’re in Croatia, so if you like having your guidebook in your hands you will need to bring it with you from home.

A Travel Journal  so that you can write down your own experiences and musings from your time in Croatia. This is also a great place to jot down phone numbers and other important pieces of info so that you have this information available offline somewhere. 

Apps to Download Before Your Trip

Here are the apps you want to download on your phone before you leave home. 

Uber for taxis in Zagreb, Sibenik, Zadar, Split, and Dubrovnik in high season (June to October). In other places, you’ll want to ask locals about a reputable company and call ahead to register a ride to avoid any taxi scams.

Google Translate  so that you can easily get out of any jams caused by language barriers. You can even use the photo setting to translate menus and signs (provided you have wifi access or a data plan).

Google Maps  for navigating while on the road, especially for walking in cities and driving on roads. You can even download the maps for the cities you’ll be visiting before your trip so that they are available to you offline.

Moovit  for using public transportation since the times are routes are more reliable in the Balkans than Google Maps.

Skype  so that you have a way to make phone calls on the road. This will come in handy if you need to call your bank if something happens to your credit cards. 

Facebook Messenger  for staying connected with family back home for free. Alternatively, you can use  Whatsapp  or  Viber . Some tour companies (especially small ones) will use Whatsapp or Viber to communicate logistics as well.

Instagram  because you know you want to post the gorgeous Instagram pics you’ll take in Croatia. We also love using Instagram for trip inspiration when in new places.

Adobe Lightroom Mobile  for editing your travel photos on the road. While Adobe for Desktop is a paid service, the mobile version for your phone is free.

iTunes, Podcast Addict, or other Podcatchers if you like listening to podcasts on your trip. 

Dropbox Mobile for backing up cell phone photos as you travel. This is important in case your cell phone gets lost, broken, or stolen. I like to back mine up at night over wifi (don’t back up over cell data unless you have unlimited data). If you use an iPhone, double-check that iCloud is backing up your photos, otherwise get Dropbox or another third-party app.

Your Airline App  if you’re flying in or out of Croatia so that you can utilize mobile check-in and avoid having to print your boarding cards. 

Tour Company Apps  for any pre-booked activities. We book our tours on  GetYourGuide  and then use their app to keep the confirmations and itineraries organized. 

TripIt for organizing flights, hotel accommodations, and tickets. I don’t understand how anyone gets around without it!

Official tour guides are knowledgeable, speak more languages, and are up to date with all information. That’s why we recommend booking through a service like GetYourGuide which ensures it works with accredited guides.

More Croatia Travel Resources

Headed to Croatia? We have some great travel resources to help you with your trip. First read our guide to  planning a trip to Croatia , which covers visas, budgets, vaccines, and much more. We also have a  Balkan currency guide that explains how money works in Croatia and local tipping customs.

If you’re still putting together your itinerary, here’s a great list of  places to visit in Croatia, our  Croatian islands guide,  and  Croatian waterfalls guide  to help you choose. We also have a  day trip guide for Dubrovnik,  if you’re visiting there as well.

Next, you’ll want to read our guide to  shopping in Croatia  so you know which souvenirs are truly local gems.

If this will be one of your first trips in the Balkans, check out our massive  list of things to know before traveling the Balkans  as well as our  Balkan bus ,  road trip , and  itinerary  guides. 

We publish new content nearly every day! Bookmark our pages on  Croatia  and the  Balkans  so that you don’t miss out on any new info or resources that we publish before your trip!

Don’t Forget About Travel Insurance!

I’m sure you’re aware that travel insurance is a good idea for traveling in Croatia (or really, any part of the world)! Steph and I have both been paying customers of  World Nomads  for the last three years. We love the peace of mind it gives us in case of emergencies, accidents, illnesses, theft, or trip cancellation or disruption.

While the Balkans are perfectly safe to travel around, there’s always a risk inherent in everyday travel, so it’s better to play it safe.

>  Get a travel insurance quote for your trip here  <<

Pin this Packing List for Your Next Adventure in Croatia!

Originally from California, Allison has been living in Bulgaria for the last two years and is obsessed with traveling around the Balkans. She has been published in National Geographic, CNN Arabic, Matador Network, and the Huffington Post. She loves befriending dogs, drinking coffee, geeking out about wine, and cooking food from around the world.

Related posts

Submit a comment cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

New on Sofia Adventures:

• How to Spend a Magical One Day in Istanbul: Mini Itinerary
• 30 Insanely Delicious Greek Street Foods You Need to Try
• 13 Things That EXIT Music Festival Visitors Should Know

• Living In Croatia
• Croatian Recipes
• Balkan Recipes

Home > What To Wear In Croatia In 2024 (Croatia Packing List)

What To Wear In Croatia In 2024 (Croatia Packing List)

Written by our local expert SJ

Sarah-Jane has lived in Croatia for 10+ years. SJ, as she is known, has been traveling the Balkans & beyond since 2000. She now shares her passion for traveling with her husband & kids.

Need to know what to pack for Croatia? After living in Croatia for the past decade, I can help you.

Have you started your Croatia packing list yet? If not, this is the only list you will ever need to ensure that you are stylish without overpacking for Croatia.

You’re reading this, which means only one thing – you booked a vacation to Croatia . Well, congrats! You won’t be disappointed. And, hey, if you’re still deciding, maybe these destinations will sway you.

If you want to fit in with the local women, think seaside glamor and effortless chic when deciding on your packing list for Croatia.

While on vacation in Croatia , you’ll notice that, unlike other European cities where stylish local women rarely stray from a subdued navy/gray/black/white palate, Croatian women are not afraid to wear brighter colors, which look fabulous against a Mediterranean tan.

Never sloppy, Croatian women have many pairs of shorts and shirt combinations and opt for more streamlined and form-fitting silhouettes.

Considering your summer vacation may take you from a lazy day on the beach to a night out in the city to a mountain hike, it can be tricky to know what to wear in Croatia. Try to find outfits that can work for multiple occasions.

The key is picking simple pieces that allow you to dress down for the day and dress up for the evening. Consider getting a packing cube to keep all your outfits organized and your bag neat for the journey.

Skip Ahead To My Advice Here!

General Rules To Consider While Making Your Croatia Packing List

• Contrary to popular belief, wearing casual clothes during the daytime is acceptable. So many people ask me about how dressed up you need to be. You don’t.
• It deserves a mention that after dark, people will wear something much nicer than a cover-up to eat out, but nothing formal—so there is no need to pack anything too over the top.
• Ignore any stupid packing list advice to bring picnic baskets, sewing kits, insect repellent, or coffee. You can either get it here, or you won’t need it.
• Think about the weather. Croatia has three different climates, and as you drive over the Velebit mountain from the Adriatic coastal cities, the temps drop significantly in cooler months – and you have no sea breeze in the winter. Generally, the northern parts of Croatia are cold; some have snowy winters and moderately warm summers. More southerly portions of the country along the Adriatic coast have a Mediterranean climate with hot summers, cool winters, and otherwise pleasant temperatures year-round. There are so many variances within that, so do find out before you know what to pack. Also, remember that we have four seasons – real seasons, not just two like Australia.
• Layers for cooler nights. The breeze off the ocean can cause seaside cities’ temperatures to drop significantly later in the day, so it’s always a good idea to bring a sweater or two.

Summer Months – High Season

• Lightweight clothing : Wear breathable fabrics like cotton and linen
• Dresses and shorts : Sundresses, maxi dresses, and shorts are popular choices
• Swimwear : Don’t forget your swimsuit and beachwear for the beaches – especially if you are going to a Croatian island
• Sun protection : Wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are essential
• Waterproof case : You will need this for water sports and beach days
• Layered clothing : Mix crop tops and long-sleeved tops, cardigans, and a lightweight jacket
• Pair of jeans or pants : Opt for jeans, trousers, or leggings
• Closed-toe shoes : Switch to closed-toe shoes or ankle boots
• Scarves and accessories : Add scarves and accessories for warmth and style

Winter Months – Low Season

• Warm clothing : Pack warm sweaters, coats, and a winter jacket
• Boots : Sturdy, waterproof boots are essential
• Thermal layers : Consider thermal underwear for extra warmth
• Gloves, hats, and scarves : Don’t forget winter accessories
• Layered clothing : Light layers will be your friend. Pack a mix of tank tops and long-sleeved tops, light sweaters, and a rain jacket
• Jeans, skirts, and light pants : Transition to lighter clothing, but be prepared for cooler days in late spring
• Comfortable walking shoes : Pack comfortable walking shoes or sneakers
• Sunglasses and sunscreen : Protect yourself from the stronger spring sun

Rules To Consider While Making A Croatia Packing List For The Summer Season

Keep these things in mind while making your Croatia Summer packing list:

• A Croatia Summer trip is hot, hot, hot. Peak season months, June through August, can be overwhelmingly hot, especially for visitors from colder climates. Choose light fabrics – they are your friend.
• Even though the average temperature in summer ranges between the mid-70s Fahrenheit (25 degrees Celsius) and high-80s Fahrenheit (35+ Celsius), there can still be rainy days. That’s just a fact. Trust me, living in Croatia for the last ten years has taught me continually to expect some rain during summer.
• I love this Dermalogica Protection SPF50 Sunscreen and this kid’s block out. Because it is so damn hot, you’ll need quality sunscreen like this . LOADS. Add it to your Croatia packing list , like the stuff we have here in Croatia is not as friendly as elsewhere and is costly. Leave it behind if you do not use it all on your vacation. Your room cleaner will be delighted.

Rules To Consider While Making Your Croatia Packing List For Spring & Fall

Keep these things in mind while making your Croatia Spring packing list:

• Depending on where you are, these months are cold in the evenings and can also be cold during the day
• There will be rain in spring and fall, particularly in April and May . It’s always a good idea to wear layers and bring a sweater. A stylish choice like one from PattyBoutik is a good option
• You can leave your strappy shoes at home and wear closed-in shoes . It’s not hot enough
• Find clothes that are practical – and beautiful

Brands We Use And Trust

Rules to consider while making a croatia packing list for winter.

Winter jackets or coats are a must. Some places inland, such as the areas around Gorski Kotar and Lika, receive plenty of snow during the colder months.

• By mid-October, we usually get the fire ready on the coast. You’ll need a coat unless you are from a chilly climate. I get cold. I see tourists wearing t-shirts, and I shudder
• You must pack an oversized jacket and warm clothing in November, December, and January. As soon as the sun sets, it gets icy
• Pack a beanie, gloves, and scarf if you are in Zagreb or inland because it may snow. Women in Zagreb (capital of Croatia) are uber-stylish, so be sure your Croatia packing list has a pair of gloves like these Fratelli Orsini Cashmere Gloves to look sleek and stay warm

Here are some of our suggestions for what to pack for your summer vacation in Croatia:

Croatia Packing List: What To Pack For Beach Days & Nights

While you can quickly pack on the lighter side for your holidays in Croatia, here are some items I recommend you pack:

Long-flowing Dresses

A Denim Jacket For Cool Nights

Travel pants should be lightweight for comfort and ease of packing.

Your traveling pants should fit well and be suited to the type of travel you will be doing. And it’s hot in Croatia, so consider pants that convert to shorts quickly and easily. Travel pants come in many styles for all budgets . Take the time to shop for a pair or two before your next Croatia trip .

See a massive collection of great pants here.

Mix-and-match separates.

Leave the khaki cargo shorts at home. Why not add a stylish scalloped edge short to your packing list for Croatia (well, anywhere, really)? Pack loads of plain tees, as they are easy to wear for daytime strolls and can be glammed up with shoes and jewelry later in the day.

Two-Piece Sets

I’m crushin’ on two-piece outfits this season. Too bad I am a fat cow right now. If you get a basic two-piece outfit – a matching twin set or two-piece dress – they can all work mix-n-match style, even to the beach.

A Lightweight, Crossbody Bag

Why exactly do you need a crossbody bag when you venture off somewhere? Why won’t any old bag do? Well, it comes down to a few different things: firstly, fashion; secondly, functionality; and thirdly, security .

These are all pretty important things when you’re on the go, and for those reasons, you need a bag you can trust that will stand up to the rigors of travel, both the actual getting from A to B part of the deal and also when you’re out sightseeing.

When traveling and exploring villages, I like to be hands-free and not worry about my handbag. Since I will be lugging it around all day, I want to get the lightest bag possible.

Another great crossbody bag is this COACH pebbled mini bag . Not too small, and not too big. Or, the one from the Kate Spade Collection.

Sunglasses & Sun Protection

Sun protection is a must. Hats , sunglasses, and sunscreen with a high SPF are highly recommended ways to avoid sunburn.

Because you can never have too many pairs of sunglasses, I also love these Marc Jacobs transparent-frame sunglasses, which are a lighter alternative to black or tortoise.

If you don’t want to spend a fortune on sunnies, look at the Suncloud Poptown Polarized collection . They are safe and affordable, so you won’t be gutted if you lose them.

Look Chic At The Beach

They Are Ugly, But They Are Needed. Beach Shoes!!

Croatia has a rocky coastline, and most of the beaches are pebbled. This can subsequently be hard on the feet. Also, sea urchins are known to make their home in these waters. Stepping on them barefoot can be a painful experience that may necessitate the need for medical attention. Therefore, travelers should bring and wear rubber-soled swim shoes.

With razor-sharp rocks and little sea creatures ready to pounce, you’ll avoid your next trip to the ER with a cheap pair of these beach shoes. Thanks to the rubber soles like these , you can wear them to the beach and while swimming. Just be sure to throw them in your bag when you head out at night.

You can buy beach shoes in Croatia at market stalls, but they are, um… hideous. Like hideously ugly.

Unpredictable Weather

It happens in Croatia – have I said that enough? Bring a jacket with you. So please add to your packing list a cardigan and/or light jacket and maybe something comfy to laze about inside and watch the rainfall. I suggest leggings. They are light to pack and can double as a neck pillow for long bus rides.

Pack a light, waterproof jacket if the rain kicks up and you don’t want to be forced to look out the window instead of being out and about.

What Shoes To Wear In Croatia

Knowing what to pack in the shoe department is challenging. Think of comfortable but stylish shoes, such as a beautiful pair of sandals . They take up so much room. Ladies should avoid high heels because attempting to navigate the cobblestoned streets in them could result in serious injuries.

Travelers should also be sure to bring along comfortable footwear suitable for walking long distances. Even if one doesn’t plan to do any hiking , you will still cover a significant amount of ground by merely roaming from place to place. After all, there is no sense in returning to the hotel room at night with sore feet.

What Shoes To Pack For Croatia

Fancy flip-flops. Leave your regular flip-flops at the hotel and opt for a slice- or slip-on like these. They don’t weigh much and look cute.

Block heels. Okay, fine; do you want a slight heel? Then don’t go for anything higher than this. Trust me.

Total comfort. Find a tennis shoe that has a mix of stylish and comfort.

See our post on the best travel shoe recommendations here.

Oh, how lucky for boys! So many fewer options and worries. Wear loafers or sneakers, whatever is comfortable.

Croatia Packing List: Croatia With Kids

Packing for a family trip can be daunting, and knowing what to bring on vacation is even more scary when you have a toddler in tow . They always seem to need something you forgot to pack. We live right by the beach and often go with our son, so we’ve listed the top 17 travel checklist items you need for a fun day at the beach with your little one.

The one thing I would say is that you should bring with you a beach tent . It’s so hot here in Croatia that they are almost impossible to find during summer. The other essential item is wipes. With snacks, sand, sunscreen, and maybe even ice cream, you’ll need a lot of these. Luckily, they can be purchased all over Croatia, so don’t forget to pack them if your little one needs to use only one brand.

Croatia Packing List: Adriatic Sailing Trip

We have this full post dedicated to what to pack to go sailing . We’ve done it many times now and know what you need. Three essentials to pack are:

• Motion sickness medication. If you tend to get seasick, these products must be a must for any ferry rides you undertake during the trip.

Move This Adventure To Your Inbox & Get An Instant Freebie

No spam. Unsubscribe at any time.

Croatia Packing List: Active Holidays

It’s not all beaches here in Croatia; there are also brilliant bike and hiking routes. We also have eight spectacular national parks , with two sets of giant waterfalls to see (Krka National Park and Plitvice). Whatever your preference, pack a few items, such as comfortable walking shoes and a lightweight fleece , to enable you to explore more comfortably.

• Hiking boots with a good sole
• A range of activewear
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Good socks. Lots of socks
• Lightweight fleece
• Wind protection. Often forgotten on a packing list , but you may get caught in some wind, so pack at least one pullover.
• Pashmina is also a superb idea if things get chilly. I used mine as a blanket on the bus and plane.

Don’t Forget To Pack The Essentials

Don’t get carried away. While making your packing list for Croatia, remember these bonuses for packing light.

• You’ll save money on expensive excess airline baggage charges
• You’ll save time packing and unpacking at each stop
• There will be less luggage to carry up and down stairs and across cobblestone walkways

Packing The Not-So-Essential

If you have room, you may want to think about some of these:

• Beach chairs or towels. The rocky beaches and wooden docks along the coast don’t often have lounge chairs. So, if you desire a cushiony place to sit and are coming by car from nearby locations, make room in your vehicle for beach chairs. If you have to deal with a budget airline and have limited suitcase space, you will still want to squeeze a good-sized or your fave travel towel in your bag, as the ones we have here are thin and “meh.” We recommend this  Microfiber Travel Towel from  Active Roots
• Reading materials. Guidebooks about Croatia are excellent because you can research your next destination during your downtime, sitting on the beach or waiting for the next ferry. If reading doesn’t sound appealing, be sure to bring along a deck of cards or other items to keep yourself entertained.

Do you now feel ready to pack for your vacation in Croatia? What did we miss from this packing list for Croatia? Let us know below what we can add to this travel guide.

Need more packing, travel gear and tips? We’ve written packing lists & guides about a few things;

• What to Pack For Sailing Croatia: The Ultimate Guide to Help You Pack Light
• What Language Is Spoken In Croatia
• What to Pack For A Beach Trip With Kids
• What to Wear on Long Haul or Overnight Flight
• The Best Travel Pillows For Long-Haul Flights
• Best Travel Shoes For All Occasions
• How to Find the Best Travel Wallet
• Find The Best Carry-On Garment Bag
• Best Packing Cubes For Travel
• Is Croatia Safe To Travel? Helpful Safety Tips

Comments (74)

Great list! I just bought a similar pair of sandals – cute, go with everything and actually comfortable! One of my favorite travel accessories is a sarong – so many uses! Scarf, coverup, blanket, towel… I love them!

Ohh yes, a sarong is a must need item at the beach you are so right.

This is a super list – I always over pack and wear half of what I brought ~ or I underpack and don’t have enough clothes especially when we travel for a few months at a time!

Ohhhh I always over pack, and swear I’ll stop. But never do. Damn… one day.

This is a great list! I love wearing bright patterned dresses so it looks like I would fit in with Croatian style! :)

Great! Now you just need your ticket.

I’m afraid that I’m the baggy shorts and plain T types, so I am always glad to get suggestions. The cropped denim jacket is clearly a better choice than the zip-up hoodie that I keep wearing, so I’m going to click over and have a look. That Tory Burch bag is EXACTLY what I’ve been looking for. Thanks!

Don’t tell anyone… but me too!

How stylish! Great article.

Love how chic everything is. Too bad my travel clothes don’t look anything like that! I love that swimsuit coverup/dress and the breezy camisoles!

Kristin is much more stylish than I… hence why I asked her to tell you all what yo dress. I do think those earrings would go with my outfits though.

NOW this post comes out, after I’ve already gotten to Croatia! Haha, I felt like such a bum in backpacker clothes with all the stylish women around, but I’m learning to just get over that. :)

I am sure you look lovely Mandie. Just strut with confidence :)

I aspire to be this chic when I travel! I do always pack some chic go everywhere sandals though. Cuts down on the number of shoes I have to carry around and helps make me look cute even when I’m a bit travel worn. Fun post!

I always pack too much, even after a lifetime of travels, so in theory this is a great list for me, but in reality it’s faaaar too chic! I’m much more casual and far less sophisticated!

After years of holidaying, I have finally got it sussed. Great picks by the way, very much what I would try and pack.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Subscribe To Unlock Your FREE Customizable Travel Packing List & All Our Best Tips!

Unlock Your FREE Customizable Travel Packing List!

Subscribe Now For Instant Access To Stress-Free Packing

What to Wear in Croatia: A Complete Croatia Packing List

By: Author Hannah Cooper

Posted on Last updated: February 29, 2024

Sharing is caring!

When deciding what to wear in Croatia, you will be guided by the season, the destination, and your planned activities. 

Live-aboard sailing trips are one of the coolest and most popular ways to see this Balkan country. These typically take you to a string of towns and islands and have a mix of time in the water and ashore. Otherwise, you might choose to base yourself in a seaside city such as Split , Dubrovnik, or Zadar and take day trips around. 

Croatia is also home to lush national parks where hiking, cycling, climbing, and rafting are available. Not forgetting the capital, Zagreb, where you’ll be pootling around museums and plazas. 

Croatian style is so much fun. Women have a cool sense of style that reflects the environment, whether that’s coastal or mountainous. They wear a mix of everything –trousers, shorts, dresses, etc – but you’ll note that their clothes are always well fitting.

Mini dresses or crop tops (with longer trousers) are fine to wear. Although, you’ll need to cover up in churches and dress more modestly the further you are from the sea. 

Color is highly encouraged when choosing what to wear in Croatia in April through to the end of summer. Leave the black, beige, and gray for other places on your travel itinerary. 

What’s the weather like in Croatia?

Croatia’s Adriatic coast enjoys a Mediterranean climate of hot, dry summers and cool winters prone to rain. 

Spring and autumn are the best time to visit Croatia. The beaches are beautiful for wandering and the ocean will be warm enough for swimming by early June until the end of September. April onwards is also a lovely time to explore the hinterland. 

Summer brings the hottest temperatures with daytime temperatures in the mid-high 80s (around 30°C) on the coast. A constant sea breeze moderates the temperature but can it pay havoc with skirts and dresses.

It does drop cooler inland and further up into the mountains. Mind that summer sees swarms of tourists – Croatia is as popular as Spain, Italy, and Greece.

Winter in Croatia is low season and the crowds vanish, boats bob in the harbor. It’s not technically one of the warmest places in winter in Europe but it’s not a bad shout for some winter sun. This season definitely requires proper winter clothing – a warm coat, boots, jumpers, a hat, and mittens are all required!

Bear in mind that November and January are the wettest months in Croatia and it snows in the mountains. This guide to what to wear in Paris in winter has some style tips that apply to Croatia. 

What to Wear in Croatia: Ultimate Croatia Packing List 

This guide focuses on what to wear in Croatia’s seaside resorts, specifically in the summer months. If you are planning on spending more time inland exploring the national parks and Zagreb, you will need to tweak it. 

National parks and rural areas will require hiking clothing and athleisure whereas this guide to what to wear in France should help pack for Zagreb and rural towns. 

This packing list for Croatia has some overlap with what to wear in Portugal and Italy in summer so you might want to cross-reference these guides for other tips.   

The beaches in Croatia are one of the biggest draws to the country in summer, so be sure to pack your swimsuit!

1. Swimsuits

Swimsuits play a crucial role in choosing what to wear in Croatia in summer! The Adriatic coastline is over 1,105 miles in length while the country’s 1,246 islands add a further 2,522 miles of shore. Whether you’re booking a sailing vacation or a land-based holiday, you’ll want to get out in the water as much as possible. 

Subject to the length of your trip, you’ll want to take around three swimwear pieces. It’s worth packing a couple of different styles for different activities. A one-piece swimsuit is handy for watersports such as snorkeling and kayaking. This rashguard bathing suit hybrid provides even more coverage. 

Meanwhile, you’ll appreciate taking different bikini designs if you’re eager to avoid tan lines For example, a bikini with spaghetti straps and a bandeau two-piece helps get an even suntan when you’re sunning yourself on the deck. 

But, you really don’t need any excuses to pack extra swimwear – Croatian style calls for having a couple of options to rotate. 

2. Aqua shoes

They’re not the sexiest item for your Croatian packing list but a pair of water shoes makes a day at the seaside far more comfortable. 

Many of Croatia’s beaches are rocky and some swimming spots are just concrete slabs into the water. The sea is lovely and so inviting but it does make getting in and out somewhat cumbersome. Aqua socks are so small they take up next to no room in your bag and only cost a few dollars. They’re recommended to all travelers but are essential for children.  

You’ll also want a lovely soft Turkish cotton beach towel to lay down over the rockier sun traps.  

There are so many beautiful historical cities all over Croatia. Pack some comfortable shoes for walking on all of these cobbled streets!

3. Light, waterproof jacket 

Rainfall is scarce during Croatian summers (July is the driest month) but it can still strike. There are a couple of days of rain in the summer months and it’s useful to have a low-tech waterproof jacket on your Croatian packing list.

This hooded raincoat packs down into a little pouch that you can stash in the bottom of your main luggage or day bag. The length is great because the rain can be heavy when it wants to be. It’s also nice if you get caught in a shower while at sea or out exploring nature parks. 

It’ll do the trick for light coverage although an intensive hiking itinerary calls for a proper coat, such as this Columbia shell top jacket . 

4. Comfortable footwear 

There are a lot of cobblestone paths in Croatia! It’s also quite a hilly country with lots of steps to climb up for the best views. 

During the day, you’ll want a decent pair of sneakers or walking sandals. These will need a good grip as urban surfaces can become slippery in extreme heat or after rainfall. These are also crucial for what to wear in Croatia on a sailing trip. You’ll be required to wear non-slip shoes onboard – often, the boats are docked in a way that means you have to jump over a bunch of other vessels to reach yours. 

These lightweight slip-on running shoes are ideal for day wear. They’re cushioned for comfort and feature non-slip soles. Although designed for athletics, they’re not particularly sporty-looking which means you can wear them with just about anything and feel put together. 

For even more breathability, these strappy sandals have anatomical cushioning, comfort, and support. They’re made by Dr. Scholl’s, so your feet are in good hands!

If you would like something smarter for the evenings, opt for ballet pumps or espadrille sandals with a low wedge heel. Croatia isn’t the place for spindly heels, you need sturdy.   

Explore all of the history of Croatia while you are exploring the country. This is a fun thing to do any time of year in Croatia.

5. Several pairs of shorts

Shorts will be your go-to for what to wear in Croatia in April onwards. They’re so versatile for a day of exploration and are practical for outdoor activities and when the sea breeze picks up. 

Denim shorts are great but they do add bulk and weight to your luggage. Plus, they’re a faff to wash and dry on a longer trip. Avoid ripped cut-offs if you want to blend in with the Croatian style of dressing. 

Linen, cotton, and lighter fabrics are better. Croatia fashion is playful so you might want to pack a mix of floral shorts , striped shorts , and comfy linen shorts to suit different vibes. 

Just make sure you have a pair that’s easy to slip in and out of during the day while cruising or relaxing at the beach. If you fancy a dressier pair of shorts for evenings, these belted shorts go with lots of different tops and shirts. 

In terms of what to wear in Croatia in September and onwards, you’ll want to pack your favorite jeans or a fun pair of trousers . The weather cools and you’ll find these comfortable for daytime sightseeing and evenings. 

6. Colorful dresses and skirts 

If you feel more comfortable in dresses and skirts, these are perfect for what to wear in Croatia in summer. You can just wear whatever style you feel more comfortable in. Croatia fashion is very relaxed and casual on the whole, especially in beach towns. 

Pack a mixture of styles, such as a strapless sundress , a playful mini dress , a day-to-night tank dress , and a longer sundress . This way, you’re covered for different moods, occasions, and weather patterns. As always, avoid overpacking and paying extra baggage fees by planning to do laundry. 

Make sure to pack your hat for those hot sunny days near the coast in Croatia. That sun can be strong and shade is rare in this historical areas.

7. Mix of t-shirts and vests

You’ll want to just pack tops that go with your selection of shorts, dresses, skirts, and trousers.

Bear in mind that you’ll get quite hot and sweaty during the day in Croatia. Plus, you’ll be getting splashed by the sea or waterfalls, subject to where you go. You’ll need to strike that balance between having enough tops to rotate without having too many – again, laundry is your best friend! 

When deciding what to wear in Croatia in September, you’re still looking at warm weather. However, some days will have a distinct chill in the air, and evenings start to drop cooler.

This is the season to add an evening layer such as a knitted cardigan or a light sweater to your Croatia packing list. 

8. Layers (what to wear in Croatia in April and September!)

Just as a general note, you’ll need to arrange your packing list for Croatia with layers in mind during spring and early fall. Choose clothing that you can modify during the day – t-shirts and cardigans/knitwear, leggings under dresses, and a practical jacket. 

A bomber jacket is a suitable choice as it provides warmth in mild conditions but can be squeezed into your day bag*. If you’re eyeing a winter getaway to Croatia for Christmas markets and cheap hotel deals, you’ll need to upgrade to a woolen trench coat or a cozy parka .

*This guide to choosing the best bag for Europe travel will help you here.

If you know your itinerary for your trip around Croatia, you can better plan what to wear in Croatia before you start packing.

9. Dressy options for evenings

Croatian style is casual by day although it’s typical to see people slightly more dressed up in the evening. That definitely applies to the peak summer season. You’ll appreciate having at least one dressier ensemble for the evenings. 

That could be a dress, trousers, tailored shorts, or even jeans with a nice shirt  – it just depends on what you’re comfortable in. Even a jumpsuit would be perfect for what to wear in Croatia at night. In most instances, you can wear your daytime clothes at night and spice up your look with a change of shoes or accessories. 

Of course, if you’re planning to eat at fancier restaurants or equivalent you’ll want to check dress codes. There are some posh spots in Croatia.

A big sunhat is a must for what to wear in Croatia in summer. It’ll protect your neck and scalp from harmful rays and dress up an outfit. 

This floppy wide-brim sun hat has UPF 50+ protection. It’s designed to be packed down into a bag and resume its shape easily. The chin strap tucks away when you’re not using it and will help the hat stay in place in windy areas or when out at sea. 

11. Jewelry and accessories 

You can reduce your packing by taking a capsule wardrobe and using accessories to edit your look. These will really depend on the outfits you’ve picked out but don’t be afraid to play around with color and texture. Croatia fashion leans boho in the summer so you’ll look the part with turquoise gems, stacked rings, and bangles.

Avoid tangles by picking up a jewelry organizer case designed for travelers. 

Dubrovnik is a highly visited place in Croatia, and for good reason because it’s packed with history and stunning views.

12. Inflatable pool floats 

One final item for your packing list for Croatia and it’s an exciting one: pool floats! You can actually buy inflatables in Croatia but this is something to think about before travel. If you are taking a sailing trip, you can take some inflatables with you to enjoy at swimming stops. They’re handy for those pebbly beaches as well. 

If you plan ahead, you can buy the classic pink flamingo and unicorn combo as well as tropical toucans and peacocks . The boats usually have pumps on board to inflate them, all you have to do is ensure they don’t blow away between uses. 

Finally, this packing list for Europe in summer is “packed” with even more tips on what other items deserve a spot in your luggage.  

23 Top Croatia Packing List Items for 2024 + What to Wear & NOT to Bring

Croatia is an Eastern European country that is becoming a popular tourist destination thanks to recent pop culture phenomena like Game of Thrones.

The most common question I’m asked is what to wear in Croatia , so I’ve put together this packing list along with what NOT to bring and some FAQs and seasonal information.

The country is home to more than a thousand islands, a stunning coastline, the major cultural capital Dubrovnik, and loads of old castles and offbeat attractions, so get ready to explore and enjoy!

What to Pack for Croatia – 23 Essentials

1. universal power adapter.

The Croatian power outlets are quite different from those in the US, so you’ll definitely need an adapter. It’s good to choose a quality one that works in many countries so that if you go to other destinations in Europe, you will also be able to charge your devices. This one works in over 100 countries and has built-in device protection via a safety fuse.

View on Amazon.com ➜

2. Gorgeous Outfit

While casual wear is the norm for daytime in Croatia, both locals and tourists enjoy dressing up a bit for evening activities. This dress is super cute and very comfortable, plus it’s universally flattering and can easily be dressed up or down depending on how nice you want to look. The affordable price makes this a perfect choice!

3. Virtual Private Network (VPN)

A VPN is one of the most essential services I recommend. I learned the hard way in Paris that the use of an unfamiliar WiFi network puts your financial and personal information at risk of being hacked. Let’s just say it’s not a mistake you want to have to pay to rectify. A VPN provides a layer of encryption between your data and any potential hackers, thereby protecting your privacy and financial information.

Additionally, a VPN can help unlock certain blocked internet sites like social media platforms and features when you’re traveling to a country where internet restriction and censorship are a problem. It’s such an affordable service and can really save you a lot of hassle. I highly recommend NordVPN, as their services are inexpensive and very reliable.

View NordVPN.com Options ➜

4. Neck Wallet

Especially if you plan on visiting crowded or touristy destinations like Dubrovnik and Hvar, you can’t go wrong with packing a neck wallet. Keep your passport, wallet, keys, and any other small valuable items organized and secured beneath your clothes so you won’t be at risk for pickpockets.

Available on HeroTravelSupply.com with an exclusive 15% discount using the coupon code “HERO” .

Or view on Amazon.com ➜

5. Swimsuit Cover-Up

There are lots of opportunities for swimming in Croatia, so you’ll want to be prepared. This cover-up is easy to throw on over your swimsuit while you’re drying off or grabbing food or drinks. Keep in mind that coastal resorts may require you to put on something over your bathing suit to dine there. This one will dry quickly and keep its shape even when wet, so it stays flattering and fashionable.

6. Travel Insurance for Croatia

Travel insurance is an absolute must for traveling to Croatia. If your flight or hotel reservation gets canceled, you could be stuck paying for the sudden changes in your plans out of pocket. Same goes for medical emergencies, urgent itinerary changes, and theft or damage to your belongings. Why take the risk of having to foot the bill for those issues when travel insurance is so affordable? Faye covers you for trip cancelation, baggage loss, theft, and medical emergencies so you’re not paying out-of-pocket in a foreign country! We love their convenient mobile app, which makes the claims process a piece of cake! With Faye in your corner, you can count on being reimbursed quickly and enjoy the rest of your vacation.

Get a quote in less than 60 seconds with Faye ➜

7. Natural Jet Lag Relief

Jet lag can really mess with your trip – headaches, nausea, and general discomfort will rob you of valuable time that could be used to explore and enjoy your time in Croatia. I personally use this for any overseas travel, and any travel with a significant time zone change. I like that it’s natural with a botanical formula, easy to take without nasty side effects, and it does a good job of preventing jet lag in the first place.

8. Windproof Travel Umbrella

This handy windproof travel umbrella is a must-have for your trip to Croatia. Perfect for those inevitable rainy days, you’ll be glad you brought an umbrella along. It’s compact and easy to close up for storage, so you can carry it with you in your daypack and be prepared for surprise downpours. It covers two people and weighs only one-pound so it’s wonderful for travel.

9. Lipstick-Sized Portable Charger

When you’re out and about in Croatia, the last thing you’re going to want to do is stop to charge your phone or camera. And ending up in an emergency without being able to call for help in a foreign country is an awful feeling. Instead, toss this handy lipstick-sized portable charger in your purse, daypack, or even pocket and use it as an external battery throughout the day.

10. Packing Cubes

We have tried so many different brands of packing cubes and these ones are hands-down our favorites for quality and price. It’s from a trusted brand that prides themselves on quality craftsmanship. These multi-sized zippable (and washable!) pouches make our lives so much easier when traveling. I never have to dig around for what I’m looking for, all of my items are kept compressed and organized, and I can easily switch the smaller pouches between my luggage and my daybag when needed.

11. Activated Charcoal

Every traveler suffers from the occasional traveler’s diarrhea or a new type of cuisine that does not agree with you. These tablets are like magic for an upset stomach. Food poisoning and many other digestive issues can be fixed using these gentle, natural capsules. I never travel without them, and I very often use them at home to soothe an upset stomach!

12. Cute Flats/Sandals

You’ll want to look stylish while still feeling comfortable and supported when you’re walking around all day visiting attractions in Croatia. These sandals are the perfect combination of comfort and style and are very affordable.

13. Quick-Dry Travel Towel

This is not your average travel towel. You never know if you’re going to have a low-quality towel at your accommodation, and some boutique hotels won’t provide them. For day-to-day, by the pool, at the beach, for a boat ride, and more – a quick-dry towel is just what you need for your trip to Croatia. This one is amazing because it dries 10x faster than cotton and is lightweight, so you can easily toss it in your backpack or daypack.

14. Discounted Tickets on Croatian Tours

Between the Blue Lagoon, the breathtaking Plitvice Lakes National Park , and the luscious wine region – Croatia has some of the best excursions in the world.

As the perfect mix of natural and historical, you won’t have a bored moment as you cruise through the Blue Cave and hear the stories of old Dubrovnik . We use Get Your Guide because they have some of the most interesting tours and offer discounts if you book in advance.

See all Croatian attractions at GetYourGuide.com ➜

15. Waterproof Phone Pouch

With so many opportunities for beaches and water activities in Croatia, you’ll want to make sure your smartphone is protected from the elements. Use this awesome waterproof phone case and bring your phone with you wherever you go. Attach a flotation strap so you don’t have to watch your beloved lifeline sink to the bottom of the Adriatic Sea!

16. Water Shoes

When you’re taking part in activities that have you on your feet and in and out of water, these mesh water shoes are incredible. They’re built like active shoes but breathe, drain water/sand, and grip like a pro. I wear them any time I’m hiking or walking on the beach so that my feet are protected from the hot sand and any rocks or sharp objects on the ground. The non-slip grip is handy when walking around on wet rocks and trails!

17. Packable “Just in Case” Bag

You know how your suitcase is always more full on the flight home than when you first packed it? Bring an extra bag, just in case. This one is made of duffle material, so super lightweight, yet can hold your authentic Croatian and Adriatic goods like lavender treats, jams, Kras chocolate, Croatian wine, truffles, and beautiful lace clothes. This bag is perfect since it counts as your personal item on the plane = no carry-on fees! Woohoo!

18. Luggage Locks (TSA-Approved)

We always travel with a few sets of luggage locks because they are super useful. After having items stolen out of our checked bag at the airport, we always put locks on our suitcases. They can also be used for backpacks in crowded, tourist attractions that attract sticky fingers, public lockers, and more. They’re TSA-approved so you won’t have any hang-ups at security.

19. Electrolytes

Especially if you’re traveling during the summer months, you’ll need to make sure you stay hydrated during your trip to Croatia. These electrolytes are a godsend if you’re feeling dehydrated (or hungover) and will help your body absorb the water and nutrients it needs to remain healthy.

20. Water Bottle with Built-in Filter

You’ll definitely be drinking a lot of water as you explore Croatia, and it pays to have a good reusable water bottle. Though Croatian tap water is safe to drink, a filtered water bottle will ensure that your water tastes better and has fewer chemicals before you put it into your body.

21. Cooling Towel

Since Croatia can reach peak temperatures of 100°F, bringing a cooling towel is a smart idea. July and other summer months especially can be very dry and warm, so add a bit of water to this magical towel that drops down to 30 degrees lower than the outside temp. It will be of major relief to you for long days outside, I wrap it around my neck for hikes and beach days. It’s also a fun gift for any travel lover who frequents tropical destinations.

22. Motion Sickness Patches

While you’re cruising along the islands and looping around the winding coastal roads – it’s likely you’ll suffer from a bit of nausea. The smaller boats do not have stabilizers like larger yachts and ships, so they can turn even a seasoned sailor a little green in the face! For those that are prone to motion- and sea-sickness, these patches work better than other brands we’ve tried (and don’t give you the usual drowsiness either!)

23. Hanging Toiletry Bag

Europe is notorious for hilariously small bathrooms. Since your ‘water closet’ may not come equipped with a ton of storage, this hanging toiletry bag will help you stow all of your personal hygiene items. From makeup to haircare, it has 4 giant pockets that hold everything you could need, creating a shelf-like system on any door, hook, pole, (or branch if you’re camping!)

Other Croatia Packing List Items

• Facial Cleansing Wipes
• Disposable Underwater Camera
• Waterproof Shoe Bag
• Flotation Strap
• European Phone SIM Card
• Beach Bag with Built-in Cooler
• Motion Sickness Patches
• Steripod Toothbrush Cover
• Dental Floss
• Hand Sanitizer
• Mini Hairbrush
• Nail Clippers
• Contact Solution
• Insect Repellent
• Mosquito Wristbands
• Loofah Glove
• Deodorant Wipes
• Flexible Tripod
• Memory Card
• Croatia Power Adapter
• Travel Pillow
• Travel Sheet
• Stain Remover Wipes

What to wear in Croatia?

In Croatia, casual clothes are the standard for daytime wear. While styles in Europe tend toward the more modest side, Croatian styles aren’t any more modest than the rest of the continent. Nice-looking clothing is best, and nothing too revealing, but you can still dress comfortably.

Temperate seasons are to be expected – this means swimwear and beach cover ups in the summer, rain jackets and umbrellas in the spring and nofollow noopenerfall, and warmer coats , hats , and gloves in the winter. Walking shoes that also look nice are important for any season.

What NOT to bring to Croatia

1. don’t take high heels.

Leave those high heels at home. Croatia’s cobblestone streets are not conducive to wearing stilettos, and can cause a sprained ankle or worse.

2. DON’T PACK a full suitcase

Remember to leave space so that you can bring home some Croatian souvenirs and avoid paying oversized luggage fees!

3. DON’T BRING books

They’re just too heavy, and they take up a lot of valuable room in your bags. Invest in a  Kindle  to save space, or at least narrow it down to one paperback book and look for book exchanges at your destination.

4. DON’T TAKE too many clothes/shoes

You’ll probably want to buy things while you’re traveling. Bring dual-purpose, neutral-colored clothing that you can mix and match – “capsule wardrobe” is the key here!

FAQs about Croatia travel

1. what is the local currency in croatia.

The local currency is the Kuna. Some places (most places in major cities) may accept the Euro but know that you will get a better exchange rate if you make purchases in the local currency!

2. What language is spoken in Croatia?

Croatian is the main language, but English is widely spoken. All the same, it’s a good idea to bring a  Croatian to English dictionary  to help you communicate and translate signs.

3. Do I need a Visa to visit Croatia?

Members of the EU along with US, Australian, New Zealand, Canadian and Japanese citizens can travel to Croatia without a Visa. For other nationalities, check with the  Croatian Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs .

4. What is the food like in Croatia?

It surprises many travelers to learn that succulent pasta dishes are a favorite Croatian meal. Tomato sauces, mushroon sauces, and other local drizzles are common. For the most part, cuisine should be fairly familiar to those accustomed to Italian and other European foods.

Don’t miss the native pork delicacies and seafood offerings – both are treasured local treats with rich histories and time-tested recipes!

5. Is tipping expected in Croatia?

Yes. The expectation isn’t quite as high as in the United States, for example, but it is customary to leave an additional tip even if there is a small gratuity added to your bill. If the service was excellent, be sure to show it! This is especially important if you may be returning to the restaurant – good tippers are remembered and treated accordingly. No need to go overboard, though – tipping amounts are pretty standard.

6. Is the water safe to drink in Croatia?

Yes! Good news – tap water is drinkable throughout Croatia. You may still want to carry a  filtered water bottle  just in case – it can help you feel more secure about what you’re drinking, and can minimize the unfamiliar taste of the water.

7. How should I greet local people I meet?

Shaking hands is a regular form of greeting and saying goodbye. Locals in Croatia are friendly and generally inviting. Don’t worry if you don’t know the language – they’ll still help as much as they can, and you should be prepared to be gracious and patient.

8. What if my flight is delayed or canceled?

It’s always good to be prepared. Make sure you pack all of the necessities like documents and medications in your carry-on, just in case, and you should be ready to tackle any airport issues. Airline counter representatives will let you know what the next step is, or try to make it easy for you to book a new flight. 

This is an excellent time to have  traveler’s insurance  – these kinds of situations can get pretty expensive without good coverage!

9. Do I need a power adapter in Croatia?

Most likely, yes. Croatia uses 230V, 50Hz AC power with the standard European two-pronged plugs. If you’re accustomed to anything other than this, you’ll need an adapter! We recommend one with built-in fuse protection and USB ports, like this  international adapter . It’ll be useful wherever you travel, and offers a lot of protection for your devices.

10. What is internet like in Croatia?

Wifi is fairly widely available, though it’s not always free. You can usually get free access in places like cafes, restaurants, and hotels, but you should never connect to an unsecured WiFi network without a  Virtual Private Network (VPN)  to protect you from hackers.

Asher Fergusson

T his post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. Please see my  full disclosure  for further information.

A to Z Croatia Packing List – Based on 25 Years of Experience

Searching for the ultimate Croatia packing list? With 25 years of traveling across Croatia during every month and season, I’ve created this comprehensive A to Z guide to ensure you are fully prepared for your Croatia trip.

Whether you’re island hopping along the Dalmatian Coast, exploring the cobblestone streets of Dubrovnik, or hiking in Plitvice Lakes National Park, having the right essentials in your suitcase can make a world of difference.

I’ve been traveling to Croatia nearly all my life, and have been living in Zagreb full time since 2014, so I know the lay of the land pretty well. I’ve traversed every region in every single season, from the chilly winters in the mountainous Gorski Kotar to the sun-soaked summers on the beaches of Hvar.

Throughout these adventures, I’ve discovered the essentials that have never let me down and some overlooked items that proved invaluable. In this guide, you’ll find tips tailored not just from generic travel advice, but from decades of personal experience, ensuring you pack not only what you need but also what you didn’t realize you’d want.

From what gadgets to pack and what shoes to wear in Croatia to my best local tips and tricks, this A to Z Croatia packing list aims to make your vacation as smooth and enjoyable as possible.

Now let’s dive in and make sure your suitcase is packed with all the essentials you need for an amazing Croatian adventure!

Table of Contents 👇

A to Z Croatia Packing List

A is for adapter.

Before you leave home, it’s important to check your plug needs. Croatia uses Type C and Type F outlets. Make sure you pack the right Croatia travel adapter to keep all your gadgets fully charged. I’m a big fan of the Ceptics Travel Adapter .

It’s super versatile for all European travels, meaning if your trip to Croatia includes a visit to neighboring countries, you’re all set with just this one. Plus, Ceptics offers a global adapter that you can take with you all over the world.

B is for Barefoot water shoes

If it’s your first time traveling to Croatia, you should know that sandy beaches are rare. Most of the beaches in Croatia are rocky or made up of pebbles, which is fantastic for water clarity but they’re not so nice to walk on.

These water shoes are good to have if you’re not used to these types of beaches or if you are traveling with small children.

C is for (Travel) Credit Card

If you love to travel and want to save money while doing so, then you need to have a travel credit card in your wallet. The Chase Sapphire Preferred is the first travel credit card I ever signed up for, and it’s the perfect starter card for anyone wanting to dip their toes into the world of travel hacking.

I wouldn’t recommend it if I didn’t use it myself! I’ve had it in my wallet for 3 years now and consider it the holy grail of travel credit cards. Take advantage of their sign up bonus for enough points to cover (at least) one round trip airline ticket.

D is for Day Pack

A lightweight and packable day pack is a travel MVP. It practically goes unnoticed in your suitcase, but shows up big time for day trips. I love the Fjallraven because of its great design and ability to pack down perfectly.

I have the Ox Red in medium, but there are other sizes and colors available. Whichever size you choose, just make sure it’s got space for all the day’s necessities: your wallet, sunglasses, a water bottle, some makeup, hand sanitizer, a first aid kit, and your usual essentials.

E is for e-SIM

No one likes high roaming fees, which is why I highly recommend getting an e-SIM from Airalo when traveling to Croatia (or anywhere else abroad). Airalo is the world’s first e-SIM store that allows you to access data on your mobile phone from over 200+ countries at an affordable price.

An eSIM is a small, built-in SIM in your device that operates entirely digitally. Just download the eSIM plan for where you’re headed, and you’re instantly connected to the local mobile network.

I’ve personally used Airalo in Croatia, the USA, Turkey, and in Thailand and can vouch for its convenience and  affordability. No more struggling with trying to figure out where to buy a SIM card, with Airalo you’ll have data as soon as you touch down in Croatia.

F is for First aid kit

Okay, I know it sounds pretty basic, but believe me, a mini first aid kit is a must-have. Keep it close, and you’ll be thanking yourself later. Here’s my recommended list of essentials:

• Painkillers : I suggest Motrin , always comes in handy.
• Motion Sickness Pills : from winding bus rides to choppy boat rides, Dramamine will save the day…because nobody has time to feel dizzy on a trip!
• Cold Medicine : summer colds can put a damper on your vacation vibes. It’s a good idea to have some cold medicine with you to ease your symptoms ASAP.
• Tiger Balm : I discovered this in Thailand and now I always have a tiny one with me. Tiger Balm is a lifesaver for everything from bug bites to muscle aches. It’s not available in Croatia, so you’ll have to order it online before you leave.
• Bandaids : For blisters, cuts, and scrapes, bandaids are always good to have.

G is for Guidebook

Whether you’re still picking out the perfect Croatian island or already have your bags packed, the Croatia Island Lover’s Guide has got you covered. This travel guide is your one-stop source for all things island hopping in Croatia.

H is for Havainas

These are my go-to flip flops. Yes, I realize that you can buy Old Navy flip flops for like $6, but be honest…how long do they last? Since 2015, I’ve only needed two pairs of Havainas. My first pair lasted a solid 5 years and only broke on an impromptu rocky hike in Hvar to discover a secluded beach – in case you were wondering, yes, it was worth the broken flip flop.

Havainas are a great investment if you’re hoping to skip the annual flip flop replacement. Bonus: they’ve got all different colors for both men and women. I personally have the gold ones .

I is for Insect repellent

Especially if you’re visiting the countryside, Krka or Plitvice Lakes National Park , or even exploring the island of Mljet , insect repellent is a must. Croatia’s natural beauty sometimes comes with pesky mosquitoes, and you don’t want to be eaten alive.

You also don’t want to spend your vacation shopping for mosquito spray, so get some before you leave home. I like this one because it is DEET free, not tested on animals, and completely safe for children too.

J is for Jet lag remedy

When it comes to jet lag, I usually suggest trying to fully commit to your new time zone. This means avoiding long naps, exercising in the morning, and getting out into the sunlight as soon as possible.

But if all else fails when I’m really struggling to adjust my body clock I occasionally take melatonin to combat jet lag (be sure to do your research or consult with your doctor before taking any new supplements).

Similarly, this homeopathic jet lag remedy has great reviews – just follow the directions and enjoy your trip without sleep problems.

K is for Kindle

If you love to read but are a minimalist when it comes to packing, then a Kindle will be your best travel companion, allowing you to pack multiple books without taking up too much space in your luggage.

As someone that works from a laptop all day, I love that the Kindle’s display reads like real paper so that I don’t feel like I’m just switching to another screen.Plus, the Kindle’s battery lasts forever, so you can spend countless hours lost in a good book without worrying about running out of juice!

I also recommend downloading audiobooks and podcasts before your trip; this will help keep the time fly by on long flights or car rides!

L is for Liquid IV

Did you know that flying can dehydrate you way faster than usual? And if you’re venturing out during the scorching peak season, it’s essential to keep up with your hydration game. When traveling, I swear by Liquid IV , an electrolyte-packed drink mix that helps you stay hydrated and feeling your best.

I try to drink one packet per day while on the road and during layovers in between flights. I’ve tried most of the flavors but my favorites are tangerine and strawberry.

M is for Money belt

Money belts are special bags designed to keep your cash and essentials snug and secure. They can be tucked away under clothes, making them hard to spot by pickpockets and thieves.

I don’t usually go for money belts myself, but I know many travelers who wouldn’t leave home without one. If you’re leaning that way, check out this one —it’s discreet, practical, and has a ton of positive reviews.

N is for Neck pillow

I was never a fan of neck pillows until I was on a flight where the headrest didn’t have those little adjustable wings on the sides to lean your head on. It was then I realized how necessary neck pillows are for a comfortable travel experience. Not only do they provide support for your neck, but they also help you to fall asleep in comfort during those seemingly endless flights.

If you’re shopping for a good one, this memory foam one is definitely worth considering. Plus, it comes with its own travel bag so you don’t have to worry about it collecting germs all over the airport.

O is for Organized toiletries

Keep your cosmetics and toiletries organized in this waterproof toiletries bag. I love this one because it is clear and comes with a detachable, TSA-approved quart-sized pocket. As someone who spent many years putting my liquids in plastic bags, it’s so much more convenient to have all my items in one bag and ready to go.

Plus, it comes with a hook so you can hang it nicely on the bathroom door instead of spreading all of your toiletries out on the hotel sink.

P is for Packing cubes

How did anyone pack before packing cubes? If you’re a neat freak like me (hello, welcome), then you need packing cubes in your life. At first glance, they might seem like an extra, but in reality? Absolute game changers.

With packing cubes, suitcase chaos transforms into a neatly curated space. Whether you’re sorting by full outfits or categorizing by clothing type (think one cube for tops, another for bottoms), these cubes turn packing into a breezy, stress-free task. Once you try them, there’s no going back!

Q is for Quick-dry towel

Heading for a swim? Quick-dry towels might just become your next favorite travel essential. They’re lightweight, easy to pack, and dry three times faster than regular cotton towels. It comes with its own travel pouch and packs down super small so that it barely takes up any room in your suitcase. When you need it, it folds out into an extra large towel.

This towel is also great for sandy shores because the sand just falls right off of it, so you can use it in Croatia and beyond.

R is for Reusable water bottle

Stay hydrated while exploring. Tap water is safe to drink in Croatia , and having a reusable water bottle is both eco-friendly and convenient. I’ve had this one from S’well for YEARS and it has never failed me. It keeps drinks icy cold for an impressive 36 hours – an absolute blessing during those sizzling summer months.

S is for sneakers & sandals

Hiking through national parks and long sightseeing days call for comfortable walking shoes. You’ll probably clocking thousands of steps per day, so you want to make sure your shoes are supportive and comfortable. I recommend packing a pair of sneakers for the trails or busy city days, plus a pair of sandals for post-hike relaxation or beach days. I love my Birkenstock Arizona sandals, they are the comfiest shoe I’ve ever owned.

T is for Travel insurance

If there’s one single thing that I recommend to everyone when traveling to Croatia (or anywhere for that matter) it is always, always, always travel insurance . Travel insurance gives you the freedom to explore fearlessly, knowing that if anything were to go wrong, your medical costs are covered.

SafetyWing is a company that I’ve personally been using for years. They are affordable, reliable, and they have excellent customer service. No matter where you go or how long you stay, having the right travel insurance can help you protect your trip and keep your mind at ease. Their average plan costs $42 for 28 days – that’s $1.50 a day to enjoy peace of mind. Don’t hesitate and just get it.

U is for Umbrella

While Croatia has many sunny days, occasional showers can occur, so a compact umbrella is great for those unexpected rainfalls especially if you’re traveling during shoulder season. Need rainy day inspiration? Check out all of these fun activities you can do in Dubrovnik when it’s raining .

V is for Very bad situations

Traveling is all rainbows and daisies until you find yourself on a boat in the middle of the sea with food poisoning (not that I’m speaking from experience). While pharmacies are pretty easy to find in Croatia, sometimes you need “ multi-symptom relief ” immediately.

It’s not the most pleasant topic, but it’s always a good idea to have this in your bag in the event of an emergency (no matter where you’re traveling).

W is for Waterproof phone case

Here’s a fun story: A few years ago, I was sitting on a sun lounger by the pool and covered my phone with the edge of my towel. When I got up, I shook out my towel, launching my 2-week old iPhone directly into the pool, immediately regretting not buying the additional warranty the guy at the cell phone store tried to sell me multiple times.

Don’t be like me . Order a waterproof phone case to keep your little buddy safe. After all, you’ll be spending lots of time by the water and riding on boats in Croatia, and a waterproof case is a super inexpensive way to protect your phone from getting unplanned spa treatments. This one is compatible with iPhones, Samsungs, the whole gang.

XL foldable duffle bag

This is honestly the best thing to have for ANY trip. I’m a carry-on-only gal, so I usually don’t have much room for souvenirs. But if I’m going somewhere where I plan to do some shopping, or already have a larger item in mind (like the time I bought a handmade wool rug in Morocco), a foldable duffle bag is a lifesaver.

It’s easy to stash in your suitcase and takes up almost no space, but it can hold a ton of stuff.

Y is for Year-round prescriptions

When traveling, never assume that any medication you need to take to maintain your health and well-being will be readily available. Take a few minutes to update prescriptions for any medication you take regularly, especially if you plan on being gone for more than two weeks.

Z is for Ziploc bags

When traveling, you’d be surprised how often a Ziploc bag comes in handy. They’re great for stashing snacks, keeping electronics safe from moisture, or separating a wet swimsuit from the rest of your gear. And if you’re bringing home liquids, they offer an extra layer of protection. I always pack a mix of sizes – just to be ready for any scenario. Simple, but effective. 

More Useful Croatia Packing Tips

Obviously, Packing all 26 suggestions on this list of what to pack for Croatia might mean sacrificing some space for clothes or souvenirs. Think of this list more as a guide to refresh your memory on potentially overlooked essentials or introduce you to exciting new additions for your trip.

You’ll notice that this Croatia holiday packing list doesn’t include clothing either (with the exception of some shoe recommendations).

While I would love nothing more than to give you the exact list of clothing you should pack for Croatia, everyone is different. I pack carry-on only, but I realize that other travelers love having a big suitcase for all of their belongings. Plus, depending on the season you’re traveling in, you will need to adjust your clothing choices accordingly.

Croatia’s climate varies; summers are typically hot and dry, while winters can be cool and rainy, especially along the coast.

For instance, while I might be content with a few versatile dresses, a pair of sandals, and a light sweater for a summer trip, you might want several outfit options, including evening wear for upscale dinners or events.

Local Tip : As far as Croatia dress code goes, the locals tend to dress casually, but put-together during the day. At night, they do like to dress up a bit. I recommend finding outfits that work for multiple occasions and can easily be dressed up or down with a few accessories. For women, a long black maxi dress that can be worn during the day and dressed up at night with some nice sandals and jewelry is a perfect example. Whatever you do though, leave the heels at home ! Trust me, you do not want to be hobbling around the cobblestoned streets in high heels.

On the other hand, if you’re venturing in the cooler months, layers are essential, and while I might rely on a combination of thermals and a couple of sweaters, another traveler might want an array of jackets, boots, and other cold-weather gear.

When it comes to packing lists, it’s tough to give a one-size-fits-all answer because everyone’s needs are a little different, depending on where you’re going and the type of activities you plan to do.

I recommend taking into account your personal style, the activities you’ll be engaging in, and the season during which you’re traveling when deciding what to wear in Croatia. Always check the weather forecast before you leave and remember, if you forget something really important, chances are you will be able to find it in Croatia.

Here are some additional tips to keep in mind when packing for Croatia:

• Minimize what you bring by choosing items that can be layered and worn multiple times.
• If you’ll be spending time at the beach, don’t forget to pack a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a swimsuit.
• Bring a lightweight waterproof jacket, especially when traveling during shoulder season as the weather can change quickly and unexpectedly.
• Seaside towns can get breezy and cool in the evenings, so pack a sweater or two even when visiting during summertime.
• Have a shawl with you while sightseeing that you can use to cover your shoulders if you plan on visiting churches
• A pair of black leggings can come in handy in case it gets unexpectedly chilly. These are also great for the plane ride over.
• A white linen button down is a fantastic item to have with you because it can be worn as a top, used as a cover up, or even an additional layer when it’s cold.
• Finally, always keep a copy of your passport, travel insurance, and essential documents in a separate place from the originals, preferably in digital form as a backup.

In the end, smart packing for Croatia is a balance between being prepared and staying flexible.

FAQs About Packing for Croatia

What should i pack for 4 days in croatia.

Depending on the time of year you are visiting Croatia, you should be able to pack enough clothes and essentials in a carry on for 4 days in Croatia. No matter what season you visit, be sure to pack a swimsuit, comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, a day pack, light jacket or sweater, and clothes that you can easily layer.

What is appropriate to wear in Croatia?

Croatia has a varied climate, with continental, Mediterranean, and mountainous influences, so clothing can depend on the region and season. However, Croatians are generally well-dressed, especially in cities. There are no strict rules on what you should or should not wear. If visiting in summer, please be respectful and cover up when you’re not the beach (i.e. don’t wear a swimsuit or go shirtless while walking around cities or at restaurants).

Should I bring jeans to Croatia?

You should bring jeans to Croatia if you are visiting in the fall, winter or spring. A nice pair of jeans can be extremely versatile when it comes to packing as they can easily be dressed up or down.

Should I take a backpack or suitcase to Croatia?

If you plan to visit Croatia for a few short days, you can easily get away with taking a backpack. For stays of a week or more, I recommend taking a carry-on sized suitcase (my favorite is the carry-on from Away luggage). Bear in mind that if you visit Dubrovnik, you will need to carry your luggage through town as rolling your suitcase is no longer allowed.

Is it okay to wear shorts in Croatia?

Yes, wearing shorts in Croatia is okay and a popular choice among travelers during the summertime. You will notice that most locals do not wear shorts (especially in cities like Zagreb), so if you want to blend in, consider packing dressy shorts or skirts and dresses.

Do I need sea shoes in Croatia?

Sea shoes (or water shoes) are a good idea to pack if you are not used to rocky and pebbled beaches. Water shoes will help protect your feet from sharp rocks and sea urchins, and make visiting Croatia’s beaches much more comfortable.

Final Thoughts: A to Z Packing List for Croatia

Exploring the jaw-dropping landscapes of Croatia guarantees an adventure like no other! And when you’re well-prepared, you can fully immerse yourself in the experience without any hitches.

While every traveler’s needs are unique, this A to Z Croatia packing list gives you a general idea of the items you should bring along in order to have a great experience and be prepared for just about any situation. From the busy streets of Zagreb to the serene shores of the Adriatic Sea, the right gear can make all the difference.

The most important thing is to take into account the season, your planned activities, and leave a little room for the unexpected.

If you’re still putting together your Croatia trip, here’s my list of Croatia’s hidden gems that should not be missed! 

Still need help planning? Get personalized advice in a 1:1 call with me !

You Might Also Like

15 best books about croatia.

• Best Airport to Fly Into Croatia
• Is There Uber in Croatia?
• Is Croatia Expensive to Visit? (Local Guide)
• Do They Speak English in Croatia?
• Is Croatia Expensive to Travel To?
• 10 Days in Croatia: The Perfect Croatia Itinerary
• Is Split or Dubrovnik Better? Where to Travel in Croatia
• The Only Hvar Island Travel Guide You Need
• Is Dubrovnik Expensive? (A Guide to Prices in Dubrovnik)
• Is Zagreb Worth Visiting?
• Where to Stay in Zagreb (Plus Best Hotels in Zagreb)
• 17 Dubrovnik Hotels With Pools to Dream About

Croatia Travel Planning Guide

💸 What is the currency in Croatia? As of January 1st, 2023, the official currency of Croatia is the Euro and NOT the Kuna (which is also the name of the national animal of Croatia ). 🇭🇷 What language do they speak in Croatia? Croatian is the official language of Croatia . Learn some phrases in Croatian before your trip with the Ling app ! 🚑 Should I buy Croatia travel insurance? 10000% YES – Seriously, don’t leave home without it . You never know what can happen on the road. I like SafetyWing because they provide excellent coverage for as little as $1.50 a day. 📱 Will my phone work in Croatia? Maybe – check with your provider to see if you’ll have service while traveling Croatia. If you don’t have service (or it’s too expensive) I recommend getting an eSIM like Airalo . Airalo allows you to have data while traveling without the high costs of roaming. They have super affordable plans available for 190+ countries, including Croatia. Download the app and get your plan before you leave home so that you have data as soon as you touch down in Croatia! 🏨 What’s the best way to book my Croatia accommodations? For Croatia hotels, Booking is by far the best site. 🛫 What’s the best site to buy Croatia flights? I always use Skyscanner to find the cheapest flights. 🚗  Is it safe to rent a Car in Croatia? Yes! – In fact, renting a car in Croatia is one of the best ways to see the country! I recommend Discover Cars because they check both local and international rental companies to ensure you get the best deal. (Get your Croatia road trip itinerary here ) 💦 Is it safe to drink the water in Croatia? Tap water in Croatia is completely safe to drink , so bring your reusable water bottle and fill up! 🪪 Do I need a visa for Croatia? Depending on where you are coming from you may or may not need a visa to enter Croatia. Check the official Republic of Croatia Ministry of Foreign Affairs website for more information on who should apply for a visa.

Fueled by her passion for travel and her Croatian heritage, Olivia left the USA in 2014 to study abroad in Croatia where she has been living ever since. She founded Inspired by Croatia to share travel tips, destination guides, and exclusive local insights about the country she now calls home.

Similar Posts

Tales about life in Croatia, fictional novels set in Croatia, and the best travel books about Croatia – you’ll find them all here.

How to Say Hello in Croatian (With Audio Examples)

Learn how to say hello in Croatian with these tips from a local! Plus, practice how to pronounce hello in Croatian with audio examples.

Can You Drink the Water in Croatia? 2024 Local’s Guide

A common question people ask is: “Can you drink the water in Croatia?” Find out if Croatia tap water is safe and how to stay hydrated during your visit.

How to Pronounce Croatia (With Audio Example)

Find out exactly how to pronounce Croatia in simple, easy-to-follow steps. Plus, make sure you’re saying it right with in-post audio examples.

Croatia Solo Travel: The Ultimate Guide

Is Croatia safe to travel solo? Yes! This Croatia solo travel guide covers everything you need to know about exploring the best of Croatia on your own.

How to Get Croatian Citizenship

The easiest and most straightforward way to acquiring Croatian citizenship. Find out how to get Croatian citizenship with the help of CitizenHR.

Croatia Travel Guides

Your one-stop travel guide for Croatia

Travel Guides · March 20, 2020

Packing List For Croatia For All Seasons

There’s probably a thousand (or more) things you can do and places you can visit in Croatia at any time of the year.

The country has many beautiful islands and each with a distinct character, fascinating and picturesque old cities, intriguing castles , scenic national parks , pristine beaches and the crystalline Adriatic surrounding it.

With those in mind, a visit to this country sounds like it’s going to be jampacked, adventure-filled, fun and fulfilling.

You’ve booked your flight and accommodations, you have your itinerary ready and you’re just itching to go — but what goes into your packing list for Croatia?

What should you bring that’s functional yet stylish, comfortable yet chic, maybe there will be bulky or heavy items but are necessary? No, you need not pack your entire house for Croatia but close, without you looking like you’ve crammed your entire universe in your luggage.

Whatever your plans are in Croatia, here are the items that must go into your suitcase, at each month of the year.

What to pack for Croatia for Winter (December, January, and February)

‪Winter in Croatia is not so cold, the temperature is pretty stable and the lowest can go to just above the freezing level. Not so cold but not quite tolerable either so it’s best to bring clothes that you can easily layer, comfortable and warm.

Here are a list of winter essentials for both men and women when going to Croatia in December , January , and February : ‬

‪Long-sleeved shirts — these are items you can easily layer and best for keeping you warm. They also go well with just about anything. Just like these Hanes cotton long-sleeved shirts for him or long-sleeved shirts for her . Have at least two in your suitcase or backpack: one in either a bright color or print (stripes, floral, plaid) and another in a muted / earth color. ‬

‪A warm parka — best if it’s hooded, long enough to cover your hips and almost all your fingers. This is the best cover for all those layers of clothes you’d have if it’s really cold, and a versatile jacket when out to explore the city or going out for dinner. ‬

‪Light down jacket — easy to roll up and pack and a great layer under your parka, this is also something you can put on your day bag when out exploring the city or parks. This easily keeps you warm as well as dresses up a long sleeve shirt and jeans combo. You can check this light down jacket for men and this jacket for women .

‪Leather ankle boots that are waterproof and slip-proof — yes, you must look for all those features as this is your go-to shoes when walking around town that can also take you to more rugged paths and even a quick hike up a hill or fortress. Make sure that they’re already broken in when you bring them to Croatia so your feet won’t hurt and you can really enjoy your stay. ‬Check out this cute Teva leather ankle bootie .

What to pack for Croatia for Spring (March, April, and May)

March , April , and May are the spring season in the country. Spring in Croatia is still colder than usual, bit weather is generally mild and perfect for exploring. The items listed here are ideal for still keeping warm, yet comfortable and ensures easy movement.

V-neck shirts – bring at least 3, in different colors. These are versatile and easy to pair with anything. Like these cotton v-neck shirts. You can wear a jacket over it as well or dress it u with a scarf if the weather gets chilly. You can check these shirts here .

Long-sleeved shirts — always a good idea, these are best for keeping you warm and also goes well with pretty much anything. Wear with leggings or jeans for a casual walk around town, wear underneath a jacket or just wear a scarf for dining out or date night. Check out these long sleeve shirts .

Knee-length or mid-calf skirts — a great alternative for jeans and leggings that you can wear if you’re museum-hopping in Zagreb or hanging out at the Roman forums in Zadar , or exploring Diocletian’s Palace in Split , such as this pretty Zara skirt . It’s comfortable and just a bit dressy, looks great in photos, too!

Black leggings — this item should be in your travel must-haves any season of the year as it’s versatile, easily keeps you warm and goes well with pretty much anything.

Comfort fit jeans — you can easily layer these jeans with leggings if the weather gets too cold, and also ensures easier movements when embarking on long-distance walks or hikes.

Crease proof dress pants (for men) — be sure to bring at least a couple of these as an alternative to jeans. It’s dressy but it’s versatile, something that will take you from day strolls around the city to a fine dinner in the evening. See this stylish wrinkle-resistant pants from Vegorrs.

Sneakers — your go-to footwear that’s comfortable and looks good whether you’re wearing jeans, pants or a skirt. These superstar Adidas sneakers are perfect for any occasion and season.

What to pack for Croatia for Summer (June, July, and August)

June , July , and August are the summer season so it is also the best time to go to Croatia.

Shorts — bring at least two: one denim and one thick cotton or linen. Goes well with a tank top and chambray shirt, even a scarf. You can wear these while hanging out or strolling around the beach or island hopping.

Tank tops — these could be paired with shorts, skirts or jeans, on its own or underneath a scarf or light jacket. Best for keeping cool during summer. This 4 tank tops pack is a good choice.

Swimsuits— bring two, as there’s plenty of opportunities to go beach hopping during summer in Croatia. Bring one in a plain color and another in cute prints. Check this swimsuit for options.

Cover-ups —- best to get a cover u that can be easily fixed to double as a dress. You can tie it this way and that to make it into a strapless or halter dress worn over your cute swimsuit while you’re on your way to the beach. Check out this kimono cover-up .

Maxi dresses — perfect for strolling around and a great outfit to wear when going to lunch or dinner. Like this Milumia floral maxi dress . This one looks great when taking photos with any of Croatia’s old city or castle in the background.

Chambray shirt — This is a versatile clothing item that looks dressy enough buttoned-up, paired with shorts or jeans. It can also be worn unbuttoned, over a tank top and jeans, giving your simple outfit a cool street vibe. Check out this unisex chambray shirt .

Flip flops — it is not summer unless you’ve walked around in flip flops. Choose one in a bright color to add character to your OOTD. These classic Havaianas won’t disappoint.

Ballet flats — versatile footwear for walking around, that you can wear with jeans and shorts as well as with a skirt. Choose one that’s slip-proof and made with memory foam for comfort and style.

Sandals — get these hiking sandals that are light and slip-proof, that will take you from a walk on the beach or cobblestone streets to an easy hike up a hill or fortress.

Sneakers — bring one in light colors that’ll look great with your shorts and jeans. Try these much raved about Puma sneakers . These are great for walking around the city and exploring Croatia’s best attractions.

What to pack for Croatia for Autumn by month

Croatia packing list for september.

Long-sleeved shirt — a good way to stay warm as summer weather turns to chilly autumn. Wear it as it is or add a scarf, or a jacket if it gets colder.

Tea Dress (women) — Tea dresses are classic, elegant and easy to wear and walk around in. They’re lively and fun and look good with ballet flats, ankle boots or sneakers.

Mid-weight jacket — The material could be either denim or faux leather doesn’t really matter as long as it keeps you warm and stylish enough to wear on to of shirts or over a dress. Just like this one from IZOD .

Ankle Boots — Get those that are light and slip-proof, and wear them as you stroll through parks or castle gardens. Don’t forget to take photos of your boot-clad feet as they stood on fallen autumn leaves!

Croatia packing list for October and November

Long-sleeved shirt — October is officially the start of Croatia’s colder months, and it’s best to keep warm with a long-sleeved shirt paired with jeans, leggings or a long skirt.

Scarf — fleece, knitted or wool, be sure to get one that’s made with warmer, thicker material. Pack one in your day bag so you can easily pull it out when the air gets cold. Warm-up in this fleece scarf.

Warm Parka — have one ready as temperature drops. Choose one that’s longer and fits nicely so they’d look good when paired with your usual jeans and shirt combo or a dress.

Boots — Boots are a must during the cold season. Remember to pick a pair that’s comfortable, light, slip and waterproof so you can wear it anywhere, even though unpredictable weather.

Wool socks — be sure you have at least a pair as mights get colder. Wool socks easily keep you warm and they’re quite comfortable to wear, too. Stay warm in these wool socks .

Important / Must-Haves Any Time of the Year

‪Reusable water bottle with filter  – sure, Croatia’s tap water is generally clean and safe to drink, but it’s always best to bring your own reusable bottle for quick refills and to help eliminate the use of plastic. ‬Buy something like this RPA-free bottle .

‪Sturdy, Foldable Umbrella — Croatia does have surprise rain showers any time of the year so this one’s a definite must to keep you protected. Pack something like this compact windproof travel umbrella.

‪A handy bathroom kit — it’s really just made up of hand sanitizer and wet wipes (tissue is optional) which is useful when you commute or during your city sightseeing tours on foot. Also, a great way to stay clean and germ-free. ‬ This Purell hand sanitizing wipes travel pack is handy as both sanitizer and wipes.

‪Comfortable Hiking Boots — a must if you’re planning to explore national parks, mountains, fortresses, lighthouses and even a stroll around a particular city on foot. Pick the ones that are a bit dressy so you can wear them on your other Croatia activities, too. Just like this one from Xpeti which comes in different colors.

Get on the List

You’ll also love.

10 Best Things To Do in Zagreb, Croatia

Trending now.

Become an Insider

Join Croatia Travel Guides' mailing list for exclusive content, tips, & giveaways.

Hello there! Welcome to Croatia Travel Guides. CTG aims to help travelers find their way for the first time in Croatia. We are your one-stop travel guide for all things Croatia.

• Things To Do
• Food and Culture
• Where To Go
• Where To Stay
• Travel Guides
• Privacy Policy
• Disclaimer and Disclosure

Copyright © 2024 Croatia Travel Guides · Theme by 17th Avenue

Copyright © 2024 · Mia on Genesis Framework · WordPress · Log in

Croatia Outfits: The Ultimate European Fashion Inspiration

(Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.)

Last Updated on December 27, 2023 by sydabroad

Packing can be overwhelming, here are the perfect Croatia outfits and essentials to pack for your next trip!

Croatia is truly a gem and the perfect summer getaway. I visited last summer while I was backpacking through Europe and I think everyone should visit at least once in their lifetime. it’s one of the most stunning countries I have ever visited!

Anyway, if you are looking for a few cute Croatia outfits for your trip, I’ve shared mine along with some packing tips for your summer vacation! Let’s get into the article.

I have included all of my looks, accessories, and my favorite wellness and beauty products to travel with!

Looking for similar guides?

• Greece Lookbook: What to Wear in Greece
• How to Pack Light and Fashionable for Europe
• What to Wear in Dublin, Ireland: Outfits & Packing Inspo

This post is all about Croatia outfits for your next trip.

Table of Contents

Croatia Outfits: What to Wear in Croatia

My croatia looks.

Red trousers

Green midi skirt

White summer top

Tan sandals

White sneakers

Gold mini dress

White button-down

Flowy pants

Black tie top

White bikini

Denim shorts

Black satin top

Orange skirt

Accessories

Black purse

Brown sunglasses

Waterproof phone pouch

Black Sunglasses

Small gold hoop earrings

Lululemon fanny pack

Travel Journal

Film camera

RELATED POST: The Best Things to Do in Dubrovnik, Croatia

Wellness and Beauty

Cotz sunscreen

Super Goop sunscreen powder

Activated charcoal

Beekeeper’s Naturals throat spray

Peppermint oil (amazing for headaches)

Elta MD sunscreen

Mini straightening iron

Silk pillowcase

Hand sanitizer

Travel pillbox

Collapsible coffee mug

Silk sleep mask

IT Cosmetics CC cream

Glossier Cloud Paint

Croatia Packing Tips

Many of the beaches in Croatia are rocky, especially in Split. So you want to keep this in mind when packing shoes for the beach/water. Also, if you are visiting in the summertime (which I’m sure most of you are) it’s hot. Like really hot. Pack lightweight clothes and tank tops . Leave the jeans at home, you’re not going to need them.

When moving around so much it can be hard to keep everything organized, make sure to check out my article on the best bags to travel with ! I share everything from toiletry bags to large bags for backpacking.

Where to Stay in Croatia

When I was in Croaita I spent the majority of my time in Split and Dubrovnik. I stayed in hostels in both cities and they were both fantastic hostels! In Split, I recommend staying at Ciri Biri Bella . It’s located right in the city center and it’s so cute and quaint.

There is also a restaurant downstairs that is one of the best in split, so that’s a plus! In Dubrovnik, I recommend staying in Hostel Angelina . Again, it’s in the perfect location, the staff was incredibly helpful, and I met so many fun people here!

RELATED POST: How to Spend 3 Days in Split, Croatia

Find a Place to Stay in Croatia

I hope you found some outfit inspiration from this post! If you are visiting soon, be sure to check out my full travel guide to Dubrovnik, Croatia , and my travel guide to Split, Croatia . As always, if you have any questions, comment below or DM me on Instagram .

Recommended Tours in Croatia

Like this post pin it to save for later.

Want to Support?

I always appreciate it when friends and family reach out wanting to support Syd Abroad. If you’d like to support the blog, here are a few brands that I am affiliated with. All you do is click the links, and I will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you!

• Get Your Guide (Tours)
• EF Ultimate Break (Group trips)
• Booking (Hotels)
• Hostelworld (Hostels)
• Chase Sapphire Preferred (Credit card)
• Out Of Office app (Trip planning)
• SafetyWing Travel Insurance
• Arialo (eSIM; access internet anywhere)
• Bluehost (Hosting)
• Perfecting Blogging (Course)
• Perfecting Pinterest (Course)
• Keywords Everywhere (Keyword research)

Travel Content Creation

• CaliCase (Waterproof phone case)
• Fujifilm X-T4 Mirrorless Digital Camera
• Digital Camera
• Camera Tripod
• Reliable Hard Drive
• DJI Mini 3 Drone
• Phone Tripod
• Portable Light

You may also like:

Ef ultimate break promo code + faqs, 13 amazing cabo beach clubs you have to …, the best beaches in noosa + a map, the fairmont el san juan, a stunning …, leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Summer Travel Capsule Wardrobe: What to Pack for Croatia in June

This post contains affiliate links, for which I may earn a commission if you make a qualifying purchase.

Sharing is caring!

I feel like I always spend a lot of time considering what to pack for a trip. Sometimes it works out well, sometimes I realize I’ve forgotten a key piece or woefully underestimated my need for a certain type of clothing. For our trip to Croatia, I did a little of both!

Fortunately I still managed to clothe myself, but if I was packing all over again I would have made a few tweaks to my list. Our trip was a fairly active one (check out these great ways to explore Croatia outdoors! ), with four days of adventurous activities interspersed with low-key days of strolling. We spent six days in Dalmatia and four days further inland in Plitvice and Zagreb, where in theory it’s cooler (though that didn’t materialize in our case).

What to wear in Croatia really depends on your agenda – museums, hiking, or island hopping (perhaps all three). Read on for my suggestions on what to pack for Croatia in summer so you avoid my mistakes.

My challenges for packing for Croatia in summer:

• Activities included beaching, biking, hiking and sailing… but also wine tasting and city exploration
• Appropriate for carrying kids potentially covered in dirt and/or peanut butter
• (Almost) everything in one medium-sized packing cube since we like to pack light
• Enough variety not to be bored after two weeks
• Try to look somewhat put-together

Related:  Why you should pack light and how to do it

How to pack for a summer trip to Croatia

Read more Croatia articles or get Europe travel inspiration

My strategy was to create a travel capsule wardrobe for the trip from items that I already owned. If you haven’t heard of a capsule wardrobe, the basic concept is to come up with a limited set of clothes, shoes and accessories that all mix and match to create a wide variety of outfits ( check out the full travel capsule wardrobe how-to ). Sounds simple enough!

I selected black as my neutral with some blue accents, then added a few strips and florals to mix things up. Some of my staple pieces are pulled from my Ireland travel capsule wardrobe , and I didn’t buy anything new specifically for this trip.

The packing list I show here is  pretty close to what I brought. That said, I underestimated how many activity-friendly options I needed and under-packed a bit there. It was a little hotter than I expected so the dresses got lots of mileage while an extra pair of jeans sat on the sidelines (a bummer since they’re heavy and bulky to pack).

Based on my mistakes, here’s my suggested Croatia packing list for June:

What to pack for Croatia in summer – minimalist packing list

Read more: Our best travel packing tips

-5 tops (short sleeve white tee, short sleeve blue tee, short sleeve stripe tee, long sleeve breton stripe tee, chambray)

The chambray is lightweight and can be worn on its own, as a swim coverup or open over a t-shirt or dress as a lightweight layer for evenings. Sadly, I didn’t pack it! It got lots of use in Ireland and I’ll bring it on our next trip, I promise. I missed it several times!

-light-weight floral kimono

Perfect for layering over my black dress or a solid color tee, adds both texture and pattern. It would even work for the beach or sailing.

-black skinny jeans

These are dressier than blue jeans for a dinner out but I also wore them for hiking in Plitvice when it was cool and shady.

-black skort

Great for warm-weather hiking and biking.

-2 dresses (black tee shirt dress, Athleta sundress in packable fabric)

I love this Athleta dress! The fabric wicks moisture and dries in a flash, and it has built-in support. I’ll definitely consider getting another similar dress from them. If you’re a new customer, you can get 20% off your first order here . There’s even a whole section of travel-worthy clothes .

-3 shoes (black  Saucony Bullets , cork/gold Vionic Lizbeth sandals , black Teva Olowahu flip flops )

Confession: I also brought my black TOMS Avalon slip-ons . I know I could have left them at home, but they’re comfortable and cute. The Vionic sandals were a different level of comfort! I wore them touring all day and had zero pain. They’re designed by an orthopedist and you can tell when you’re wearing them.

-blue tote bag ( If you prefer a backpack-style travel daypack for women, don’t miss these great options !)

-2 necklaces (short hot pink/crystal statement necklace, short gold/white necklace)

-1 scarf (blue/pink floral)

-5 underwear

-2 pairs of socks ( Smartwool Super Sleuth )

-swimsuit ( Athleta aqualuxe )

I actually brought a one-piece instead of my Athleta tankini, and as soon as I put it on I remembered why I stick with two-piece suits.

-hat (sadly forgotten at security at LAX) and sunnies

Everything fits on my body or inside a medium packing cube . The trip was a great test-run for my new Thule Versant 60L , which can handle four medium packing cubes with room to spare. If you wanted more variety or didn’t want to do laundry as frequently, you could consider adding another skort or perhaps some shorts (though I rarely see European women wearing them and don’t love them for myself); if I wanted more, I would probably add another Athleta dress to the list.

Related:  How to Choose the Best Women’s Travel Backpack

I used the Stylebook app to help me put outfits together and keep track of everything. Here are some sample outfits I wore during the trip:

Check out these great ideas for road tripping through Croatia

What are your best packing strategies? Do you travel light or bring the whole closet?

What to read next

20 thoughts on “summer travel capsule wardrobe: what to pack for croatia in june”.

Great advice!

Nice visual packing list! I am much better with lists that have pictures. 😉 Cool sneakers.

Why do you prefer two piece swimsuits? I have literally never owned one, so I’m curious.

The day we were on the boat, we were literally in suits ALL day. I can’t even remember how many times I had to untie and retie the halter neck with the boat rocking back and forth while trying to keep my balance ?

Great packing list for keeping it light! I have to admit I love my Longchamp totes for travel. My large one even fits my laptop! And, they keep everything dry when it rains. 🙂

Has yours held up pretty well? I’ve seen some with little holes at the corners on the bottom.

My bag has one hole at the bottom corner, but it isn’t from normal wear and tear. I had set my tote atop my suitcase, and when I went over a curb, the Longchamp came crashing down to the cement. My laptop was inside, so it tore through the bag. Otherwise, the bag has held up really well for being five years old and being used as my primary travel tote.

I like the travel capsule idea because, believe it or not, I always tend to overpack. I must really think this through this year!

I’m a fan of the packing cubes too. I always try to be sensible when packing. It’s not always so easy. Thanks for the pointers. I love my Saucony shoes too!

Ooh, I love that you included photos here! My friend is leaving for Croatia in a couple of weeks and I’m going to share this with her since I’ve never been there. Wish I were going with her!

I definitely pack light also. I’m not afraid to wear the same outfit twice or to wash something and wear it again. I figure I’m never going to see the same people from day to day anyway (because we’re always on the move!). I love to pack lightweight tunics that can double as a blouse or a swimsuit cover-up. And I always wear the outfit that weighs the most when flying, so that I don’t have to pack it at all. Looks like you have a good minimalist list here for Croatia.

I always try to pack as light as possible because I usually fly on budget airlines that charge more per bag. This is a great list! I still need to by myself some packing cubes… lol

I wish I were organized enough to do the capsule packing. But then again, I usually end up packing the same items for each trip (varied by season, of course) so maybe I’m doing the capsule packing and I don’t even know it? 😉

I just love packing posts, and this one is no exception! Definitely bookmarking this for when I go to Croatia. Thanks for sharing 🙂

Thanks Carmen!

Where did you buy the floral kimono ? Brand ? Great travel wardrobe.

Hi Pat, thanks for your comment! For better or worse, it was a small boutique run a few years ago! I’ll take a look later to see if I can find something similar for you.

Melissa, this is awesome advice. Am off to Croatia in August (back to my roots as I’m only 2nd generation here). We’re headed to Dugopolje (just outside of Split) to visit my cousin and attend her daughter’s wedding. I’m an over-packer to the max!!!! Always prepared for ANYTHING. I’m on a quest to attempt to pare it down this trip – even though we have a formal wedding and dinner party to attend. Will be taking all your tips to heart. BTW – I LOVE your distressed neck red and white striped tee. Where did you get it?

Thanks so much, Laurie

It took me a minute to figure out which shirt you were talking about ? That one is actually black and white, and I think it’s from Old Navy two years ago. You could definitely pull in a more colorful striped shirt, but that’s the one I had on hand!

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

What to Wear in Croatia

Top style tips for croatia.

• Casual clothes are the norm for daytime wear.
• If you are planning on eating out, it is worth knowing that whilst restaurants are not that formal, people do tend to dress up in the evenings.
• The early evening is still traditionally the time when locals take a stroll before dinner; the ladies showing off their tan in a floaty sundress and guys in jeans and polo shirts.
• If you are looking for a highly versatile travel jacket to bring along we highly recommend the  SCOTTeVEST  range. Their range of jackets have been specifically designed with traveling in mind and include RFID security (to protect your passport information), 23 secure pockets and personal connectivity integration.

Shoes to pack for Croatia

• Ladies, leave your high heels at home ; the cobbled streets in most of the medieval towns will have your heels ruined and you hobbling around looking anything but stylish.
• Kitten heels are just about ok, but pretty sandals or flip-flops are definitely your best bet. We love Hotter shoes , for total comfort along with style. Or why not try the Lindsay Phillips Switch Flops range – using interchangeable shoe and flip-flop bases with snap-on decorations, you can change your look from day to evening in an instant whilst still packing light.

Clothing tips for women

• A trip to Croatia is likely to involve enjoying the fabulous beaches , so bikinis and beach wear, with a sarong or wrap, is very much the look for the day time.
• For an elegant look and to keep cool in the midday sun be sure to pack a stylish sunhat.
• A pashmina is a versatile piece that will dress up any outfit.
• And some simple accessories will transform any outfit from day to night.
• If you are going to visit any religious sites then be sure to cover your shoulders and bare legs – your pashmina can come in handy for this too.

Clothing tips for men

• If you're looking for versatile and stylish beachwear , try the Madda Fellarange of shirts, shorts, polos and swimwear.
• For evenings, a smart-casual look will work well, and Croatian women do like their men to make an effort. Why not try a cravat… after all, this is where they were invented!

Community photos of Croatia

Pack for the weather

• The summer – June, July, August and September – are very hot and the lightest natural fabrics will work best.
• Also In the summer wear plenty of sunscreen (we love the Riemann P20 range for 10 hour protection), sunglasses and a sunhat.
• Spring and Fall are cooler, and in April and May you can expect showers and variable temperatures. Dressing in layers will help you cope with the changeable weather.
• In the cooler winter months of October, November, December, January, February and March you need to pack a warm waterproof jacket, as this is the coolest and wettest time of year with snow in the mountains.
• We love the Weather+ app – it gives an accurate 6 day forecast for day and night, which when you're planning from home is really helpful. You can keep all the places you've been to too – a nice way to remember your trip 🙂 Download for iPad/iPhone or Android

Regions of Croatia

• In Dubrovnik , except for the Main Street you will be walking up steps everywhere , so comfy footwear (and stamina) really is a must.
• Away from the beaches and coast there is great hiking and cycling to be enjoyed in the national parks, with plenty of lakes and waterfalls to see. Whatever your preference, pack a few items such comfortable walking shoes and a lightweight fleece to enable you to explore.

Croatia travel essentials

• A light day sack or beach bag will be ideal to carry all your daytime essentials .
• If you tend to buy bottled water , consider carrying a LifeStraw Filtration Water Bottle – fill up from any source and get clean, safe drinking water without wasting plastic bottles.
• To use electrical gadgets you may need a travel adapter plug , and also a step down voltage converter if your devices are not designed for European voltage (230V) .
• Avoid paying unexpected baggage fees – use an accurate luggage scale to ensure you keep within the weight allowance. Don't forget to leave room for souvenirs on the way home! Stores selling ties and neckwear can be found all over Croatia, and specialist olive oils are a good buy – but remember you'll need to pack the latter in checked-in luggage unless you buy at the airport duty-free.

© Copyright 2019 | What To Wear On Vacation | All Rights Reserved

We specialize in unique, exclusive, personalized travel planning to Croatia and its surrounding countries. We design individualized journeys, small group tours, deluxe cruises and exceptional excursions, suited to each client based on years of personal experience, ongoing research, relationships, and professional expertise.

Latest posts.

Witness the Blossoming of Croatia in Spring

Insider Access to Luxury Croatia Vacations

Find your destination.

Packing Tips: Clothes

The bulk of your luggage is filled with clothing. Minimize by bringing less. Experienced travelers try to bring only things that will be worn repeatedly, complement other items, and have multiple uses. Pack with color coordination in mind. Neutral colors (black, navy, khaki) dress up easily and can be extremely versatile.

To extend your wardrobe, plan to spend 10 minutes doing a little wash every few nights. Choose fabrics that resist wrinkling or look good wrinkled. If you wring with gusto, lightweight clothing should dry overnight in your hotel room.

Many travelers are concerned about appropriate dress. During tourist season, the concert halls go casual. You won’t feel out of place at symphonies, operas, or plays wearing a decent pair of slacks and a good-looking sweater or collared shirt. Some cultural events require more formal attire, particularly outside of high season, but the casual tourist rarely encounters these. Women who don’t pack a dress or skirt will do just fine with a pair of nice pants.

If you’re trying to blend in, realize that shorts are not common streetwear in Europe. They’re considered beachwear, to be worn in coastal or lakeside resort towns. No one will be offended if you wear shorts, but you might be on the receiving end of some second glances. Shorts are especially uncommon on older women and in big cities, and the cutoff temperature for “hot enough for shorts” is much higher than in the US. Especially in southern Europe, women can blend in with the locals by wearing Capri pants or a skirt instead; men can pack a pair of as-light-as-possible pants.

Shorts, tank tops, and other skimpy summer attire can also put a crimp in your sightseeing plans. Some churches, mostly in southern Europe, have modest-dress requirements for men, women, and children: no shorts or bare shoulders. Except at the strict St. Peter’s Basilica (in Rome) and St. Mark’s (in Venice), the dress code is often loosely enforced. If necessary, it’s usually easy to improvise some modesty (buy a cheap souvenir T-shirt to cover your shoulders, or carry a wide scarf to wear like a kilt to cover your legs). At some heavily touristed churches in southern Europe, people hand out sheets of tissue paper you can wrap around yourself like a shawl or skirt.

It can be worth splurging a little to get just the right clothes for your trip. For durable, lightweight travel clothes, consider ExOfficio , TravelSmith , Tilley Endurables , Eddie Bauer , and REI .

But ultimately — as long as you don’t wear something that’s outrageous or offensive — it’s important to dress in a way that makes you comfortable. And no matter how carefully you dress, your clothes will probably mark you as an American. And so what? Europeans will know anyway.

More Tips for Women

Some women bring one or two skirts because they’re as cool and breathable as shorts, but dressier. A lightweight skirt made with a blended fabric will pack compactly. Make sure it has a comfy waistband. Skirts go with everything and can easily be dressed up with a pair of flats and hose (or warm tights if it’s cold).

Try silk, microfiber, or stretch lace underwear, which dries faster than cotton, but breathes more than nylon. Bring at least two bras (what if you leave one hanging over your shower rail by accident?). A sports bra can double as a hiking/sunning top. You don’t need a bikini to try sunbathing topless on European beaches — local women with one-piece bathing suits just roll down the top.

Accessorize: Scarves give your limited wardrobe just the color it needs. They dress up your outfit, are lightweight and easy to pack, and if purchased in Europe, make a great souvenir. Some women bring a shawl-size scarf or pashmina to function as a sweater substitute, head wrap, skirt at a church, or even a blanket on a train. Functional, cheap, but beautiful imitation pashminas can be found all over Europe. Vests and cardigans can be worn alone or mixed-and-matched with other clothes to give you several different looks as well as layers for cold weather. Leave valuable or flashy jewelry at home.

Privacy Overview

Fashion and Travel: A 7-day Croatia Tour for the Stylish Traveler

With stunning beaches, medieval cities and a sea dotted with islands, Croatia has become the darling of the Balkan over the past decade. 

Beyond the beautiful beaches lies a country steeped in history, culture, and impeccable style. For the discerning traveler looking for a luxurious off-the-beaten-path adventure, a week-long visit to Croatia promises the perfect blend of nature, history and fashion

The Allure of Croatia for the Stylish Travelers

Beyond the idyllic beaches and fantastical backdrops lies a country steeped in history, culture, and impeccable style. For the discerning traveler who seeks luxurious adventures off the beaten path, a one-week tour of Croatia promises the perfect blend of nature, history, and fashion. 

In 2023 alone, Croatia witnessed 18.7 million visitors , marking a huge increase from previous years. Clearly, this once-hidden gem has secured its spot as a premier European destination. While Dubrovnik’s elegant architecture and Hvar’s glamorous harbor draw in the crowds, Croatia offers much more than postcard-worthy scenes. A thoughtful 7-day itinerary reveals a rich cultural tapestry against dramatic Balkan backdrops. 

Croatia’s fashion aesthetic reflects a blend of Venetian, Slavic, and Balkan influences. Effortlessly chic yet understated, Croatia allows you to immerse yourself fully while making an impression. Whether you’re strolling the marble streets of Split or sailing the Elaphiti Islands, Croatia enthralls travelers with diverse landscapes that match diverse styles.

From the chic coastal enclaves dotting its Adriatic shores to the vibrant inland capital of Zagreb, Croatia captivates travelers with its diverse offerings. One can spend mornings exploring medieval fortresses and charming village squares before sailing out to a glamorous island retreat in the afternoon. 

The many cultural influences of the Balkan, Middle Europe, and the Balkans have all left their mark on Croatia, crafting a mosaic that fashion lovers will find endlessly inspiring.

Roman ruins rub shoulders with Ottoman mosques and grand Austrian edifices, encapsulating Croatia’s storied past in stone and marble. The alleyways of coastal towns like Rovinj and Korčula unveil a confluence of cultures that is reflected in the local cuisine, music, and artisanal traditions. Exquisite textiles, delicate lacework, intricate filigree jewelry, and handcrafted leather goods reveal centuries-old local craftsmanship reimagined in contemporary designs. 

Whether unwinding by the seaside on Hvar, exploring the winding streets of Split, or raising a glass at Zagreb’s colorful cafés, Croatia’s cities offer endless inspiration. Discovering secluded Adriatic coves by private yacht or lingering over exquisite wine and seafood at a cliffside restaurant, Croatia cultivates sublime experiences for travelers who appreciate the finest things in life.

 Understanding Croatia’s Fashion Sense 

Initially, Croatian fashion may appear more formal than beachy. A European sensibility pervades the country’s sartorial choices. While by no means business attire, you’ll seldom spot Croatians in flip flops or slogan tees. Instead, a sense of casual elegance reigns supreme.

For both men and women, you’ll want breathable, lightweight fabrics in muted solids or subtle patterns. Ankle-length, flowy dresses, linen trousers, and leather sandals make excellent choices for ladies. For gents, colorful polos, fitted tees, chinos, and loafers fit right in. Leave the logo-laden baseball caps and neon Nikes at home.

When visiting religious sites, err on the side of modesty and conservatism. Cover shoulders and knees, and avoid excessively tight or revealing outfits. Individual churches and cathedrals may have additional rules regarding attire, so be prepared.

Weather Considerations for the Stylish Traveler

Croatia’s climate varies from north to south and between the coast and inland. For the most pleasant weather, target your 7-day Croatia tour for late spring or early fall. The shoulder seasons offer moderate temperatures and fewer crowds, allowing you to explore Croatia’s destinations at their finest.

Spring weather ranges from the mid 50s to low 70s Fahrenheit, with occasional rain showers sprinkled in. Pack layers such as light jackets, cardigans, and scarves to adapt to the unpredictable weather. Capture the spirit of the season with floral dresses, linen separates, and leather jackets.

Summers can be hot and humid, with temperatures climbing well into the 80s and 90s. sea breezes offer welcome relief on the coast and islands. beat the heat in flowy sundresses, loose lightweight fabrics, and espadrilles. Don’t forget wide-brimmed sun hats and swimsuit coverups.

Autumn offers similar weather to spring, with average temperatures in the 60s. The famous fall winds call for pants, light sweaters, and jackets. Boots, leather handbags, and rich jewel tones mirror autumn’s colors.

Regardless of when you visit, check weather forecasts regularly, as Croatian weather can be quite unpredictable. Packing layers and accessories allows you to adapt your outfits to the weather while maintaining your stylish edge.

Spring in Croatia: The Beauty of the Shoulder Season

Visiting Croatia in May or June allows you to avoid the crowds and beating sun of July and August. With average temperatures hovering in the low 20s °C (low to mid 70s °F), light layers and jackets suffice in the evenings and during occasional rainy spells. Floral dresses, linen separates, and leather jackets encapsulate spring’s spirit.

Summer in Croatia: Sun, Sea, and Style 

In July and August, temperatures can soar well into the 30s °C (mid 90s °F). Beat the heat in flowy sundresses, breathable blouses, wide-legged trousers, and espadrilles. Don’t forget a sun hat and swimsuit cover-up. Pack plenty of sunscreen and an umbrella too.

Packing Essentials for a Croatian Tour

Packing for a week in Croatia requires versatility and an eye for mixing and matching. Focus on high-quality natural fabrics that easily transition from day to night. 

The Croatian Clothing Style: From Day to Night

Croatian style exemplifies European elegance with its polished silhouettes and impeccable details. Build your Croatia travel wardrobe with versatile pieces that transition seamlessly from day to night.

Daytime Looks   

• Flowy maxi dresses in floral prints or solid colors
• High-waisted, wide-legged linen trousers with silk camisoles or blouses
• Ankle pants with smart blazers or cardigans
• Tailored shorts and crisp button-down shirts
• Tiered midi skirts with tucked-in tanks 

Focus on natural fabrics like linen, silk and cotton that feel luxe while keeping you cool. Statement accessories like wide-brim sun hats, classic sunglasses and colorful scarves add glamorous finishing touches.

Evening Wear

• Slip dresses in satin, silk or lace for cocktail parties or upscale dinners
• Sequined, beaded or printed midi skirts paired with silky camisoles
• Feminine wrap dresses in bold prints or shimmering fabrics
• Palazzo pants with strappy heels and elegant blouses
• Cropped jeans with blazers and heels for a more casual chic vibe

Aim for timeless over trendy when selecting evening wear. Black, white, and rich jewel tones feel sophisticated. Metallic shoes, minaudières, and delicate jewelry add the finishing touches to your after-dark looks.  

Footwear That Conquers Streets and Beaches

Croatia’s cobblestone streets and pebbly beaches demand shoes that can traverse slippery and uneven terrain gracefully. Leave the 5-inch designer heels at home.

Pack sturdy slip-on sandals with ankle straps for the beach and breathable leather flats for exploring the city. Espadrilles work too for beach and street alike. In the evenings, bring block-heeled sandals or wedges, along with a pair of dressy leather flats that can handle the miles of walking during daytime sightseeing.

Accessories to Take Your Outfits Up a Notch

No stylish traveler’s wardrobe is complete without accessories that add polish.

• Scarves: Pack silk scarves in vibrant prints and colors to dress up basic tees and dresses. They also come in handy as beach cover-ups.
• Hats : Wide-brim fedoras and straw sun hats protect your skin and enhance your vacation vibe. 
• Sunglasses: Go for timeless oversized frames in a shape that flatters your face. 
• Bags: Choose a leather or canvas crossbody bag for safety and a classy woven tote for the beach.
• Jewelry: Hoops, layered necklaces, and stackable bracelets infuse your outfits with an air of European sophistication.

Exploring Croatia’s Top Destinations in Style

Each Croatian destination boasts unique attractions—and fashion considerations. Here’s how to strut the streets in locales like Dubrovnik, Hvar, and beyond.

Zagreb: Blending Casual Days with Dressy Nights

As Croatia’s capital, Zagreb combines urban energy with small-town charm. Stroll through farmer’s markets and cobblestone streets in relaxed blouses and smart ankle pants during the day. At night, Zagreb’s residents love to dress up for the theater, opera, and dining at elegant restaurants. Pack cocktail attire accordingly.

Split: Handling Rocky Walkways with Grace

Split’s old town unveils Roman ruins, winding alleys, and sea views galore. But slippery limestone walkways demand sensible footwear by day.swap in leather sandals for open-air concerts and moonlit harbor strolls after dark.

Hvar and Other Islands: Channeling Breezy Beach Vibes 

Life on the islands embodies laidback luxury. Think boutique resorts, elegant seaside dining, and glittering harbors. Pack flirty sundresses, strappy sandals, wide-brim sun hats, and swimsuit cover-ups to fit right in. Don’t forget bathing suit options that work for lazing on the rocks or sailing the sea.

Dubrovnik: Crowds, History, and Scenic Vistas

Dubrovnik overflows with crowds in summer for good reason. Towering stone walls encircle baroque buildings and Balkan views. Light dresses and skirts allow air to flow in the heat. Just beware of climbing hundreds of limestone steps in improper footwear. Sandals with ankle straps are a safer bet.

Travel Tips for the Stylish Voyager in Croatia 

Beyond your wardrobe, factor Croatia’s transportation logistics and geography into your 7-day travels.

Choosing the Right Luggage: Backpack vs. Suitcase

If sticking primarily to the mainland, rollable carry-on suitcases work fine for navigating cobblestones and trains. For island-hopping, backpacks prove more convenient for ferries and buses. 

Minimize luggage contents to only essentials. Laundromats are scarce outside Zagreb. Pack lightweight items that mix and match into multiple outfits.

Navigating Croatia’s Unique Geography 

Many Croatian islands and coastal towns rely on boats and buses rather than cars. Patience and planning pay off. Consider hiring a sailboat, especially to explore the Top Croatian Islands for charter , to avoid complicated ferry timetables. On the mainland, renting a car provides the most flexibility.

Making the Most of Your 7 Days

In addition to amazing cities, beaches, and nightlife, Croatia offers countless ways to infuse style into your travels. Consider a day trip to sail the islands or kayak in a national park. Try a cooking class focused on farm-to-table cuisine. Explore local wineries and boutiques. Or simply relax by the seaside while soaking up the glamorous Balkan vibe.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I maintain my style while respecting cultural norms?

Opt for classy, conservative pieces that cover shoulders and knees when visiting religious sites. Elsewhere, while Croatians don’t wear flip flops or ripped jeans, any tasteful, lightweight fabrics work wonderfully.

Where are the best boutiques and designers in Croatia?

In Zagreb, stroll Ilica Street for high-end international brands. Or peruse the Green Gold Fashion Square featuring Croatian designers. In Dubrovnik, upscale shopping lines Ulica od Puča. For local artisans, check the surging design scene in Rovinj. 

Are there any style-centric events in Croatia I should attend?

Fashion lovers flock to Zagreb Fashion Week every April. Or visit Split in August for a festival dedicated to Diocletian’s Palace couture. Check local listings for pop-up markets and shows highlighting Croatian talent.

Takeaway: Enjoy Croatia in Style

Croatia, with its breathtaking landscapes, soul-stirring history, and effortless elegance, provides the perfect canvas for stylish travelers to embark on a luxurious Balkan adventure. By packing thoughtfully, moving seamlessly between destinations, and fully embracing Croatia’s unique aesthetic, your 7-day tour will undoubtedly rank among your most glamorous travels yet. Prepare yourself to discover the magic, culture, and inimitable style of the Adriatic’s crown jewel.

Decoding the UK Visa Appeal Process: A Step-by-Step Guide

Why Should You Invest in a Bucket Hat for Travel in Winter?

Recent News

Goron Tula: Embracing Nature’s Healing Touch for Optimal Wellness

In a fast-paced world filled with artificial remedies and quick fixes, the allure of a natural care and wellness product...

End of Lease Cleaning Melbourne: Ensuring a Smooth Transition

Moving out of a rental property in Melbourne? End-of-lease cleaning is a crucial final step, ensuring you meet the stringent...

Finding Hoarding Help in Melbourne: A Compassionate Guide to Resources and Support

Hoarding disorder is a complex mental health condition that affects individuals and families across Melbourne. It’s characterized by persistent difficulty...

Slash Your Energy Bills: Practical Tips for Saving Money in Victoria

Victorian winters can be chilly, and summers scorching, leading to soaring energy bills that put a strain on household budgets....

Warehouse Safety: Why Pallet Racking Audits Are Non-Negotiable

The beating heart of any warehouse operation is its pallet racking system. These towering structures house tons of inventory, keeping...

Beyond the Logo: Unpacking the Power of a Brand Agency Melbourne

In Melbourne’s vibrant and competitive market, a striking logo is simply not enough. Businesses need a comprehensive brand strategy to...

Ditch the Desk: Why Coworking Spaces in Brisbane are More Than Just a Place to Work

Brisbane is buzzing, and so is its entrepreneurial spirit! Whether you’re a freelancer, startup founder, or small business owner, finding...

Creating a Safe Nursery with Baby Monitors: A Guide for Peace of Mind

Bringing your newborn home is a joyous occasion, filled with love, excitement, and a touch of trepidation. As you navigate...

Finding Happiness Amid Life’s Challenges: The Magic of Positive Thinking

In a world that often seems like it is spiraling out of manipulate, with stressors lurking around every corner, finding...

Keeping Your Pickup Truck Rolling: Essential Maintenance Tips from Automotive and Pickup Truck Retailers

In the world of pickup trucks, execution is foremost whether you’re cruising down the interstate or exploring tough off-road territory....

• Entertainment

Here’s What To Wear In Croatia In September!

Croatia, a nation in Eastern Europe, is quickly gaining popularity as a travel destination because of current pop cultural phenomena like Game of Thrones.

For women traveling alone, in particular, Croatia is a fantastic and secure tourist destination.

There is a strong infrastructure for tourism, and there are many options to meet people while traveling, including group excursions, hostels, and other accommodations.

Get ready to explore and take in the sights of the nation, which is home to more than a thousand islands, a breathtaking coastline, the major cultural center Dubrovnik, as well as a tonne of historic castles and unusual sights.

September is a fantastic month to travel to Croatia if you avoid the height of the tourist season.

There are fewer people around, it is not as hot outside, and the Adriatic is still warm enough for swimming.

In September, when the summer break has ended, the temperatures start to drop.

You may get a lot for your money during these months because of the smaller crowds, pleasant weather, and numerous cultural events happening all around the nation.

We have listed a few of them below:

• International Puppet Theatre Festival
• Truffle Days
• Croatian Walking Festival
• Split Film Festival
• Palm Tree Music Festival

Table Of Contents

Croatia’s Weather In September

What to wear for daytime activities in croatia, what to wear for nighttime activities in croatia, other things you should pack for a september holiday in croatia:.

In Croatia, the summer lasts through October, so it’s possible that you’ll experience warmer temperatures during the day while nights can be chilly.

The average maximum and minimum temperatures in Croatia are 78.8°F (26°C) and 66.2°F (19°C), respectively.

Daily highs drop by 8°F, from 84°F (28.8°C) to 75°F (23.8°C), and rarely dip below 69°F (20.5°C) or rise over 90°F (32.2°C).

While daily lows drop by 7°F, from 65°F (18.3°C) to 59°F (15°C), and are rarely below 52°F (11.1°C) or over 71°F (21.6°C).

You have a wide selection of activities to do in Croatia in September during the daytime. Here, summer lasts through October, so outdoor gatherings and music festivals make the most of the sunshine while it lasts.

There are numerous art exhibitions, food and drink festivals, film festivals, and numerous stand-alone concerts available in Croatia. 

Here are a few activities to do during the daytime in Croatia:

• Go Truffle Hunting
• Visit the Lavender Field
• Explore the Blue Cave on Bisevo Island
• See the Cetina River
• Visit Plitvice Lakes National Park
• Explore the Museum of Broken Relationships
• View the Odysseus Cave
• Explore the Game of Thrones Sites

In Croatia, daytime attire is mostly casual. While European fashion tends to be more subdued, Croatian fashion is no less subdued than that of the rest of Europe.

It’s best to wear attractive attire that isn’t too revealing while still dressing comfortably.

This means that a pretty shirt with a pair of well-fitting trousers or jeans would be great.

You can choose from comfortable sandals or sneakers for footwear.

The weather may get a little warmer during the daytime so make sure to bring a few pairs of shorts, skirts, and light fabric dresses.

Croatia’s nightlife won’t let you down. Once the sun sets, the dynamic cities of Zagreb, Split, and Dubrovnik come to life with a fresh buzz and vitality.

Here are a few places that you can visit during the nighttime in Croatia:

• Tower Pub Crawl in Split.
• Stand-Up- Paddle Glow Night Tour in Pula
• Drinks & Bites in Dubrovnik Private Tour
• Segway night tour
• Boogaloo in Zagreb
• Club Aurora in Primosten
• Aquarius Club in Zagreb

Even while the majority of restaurants are not particularly formal in Croatia, both visitors and locals frequently dress up in the evenings if you plan on dining out.

Wear your amazing nighttime attire or at the very least something more elegant, such as a dress or jumpsuit, for this occasion.

For nighttime meals on the beach, you can’t go wrong with a black maxi dress, just add a gorgeous silk scarf, and put on a pair of colorful tassel pendant earrings, and you’re ready to go out for the evening.

Since Croatia has many clubs, you can’t miss the chance to go to a club. For clubs, you can’t go wrong with a full sleeves sequin top with black jeans and a pair of pretty high heels.

While on vacation in Croatia during September, the nights can be chilly.

You can carry a cardigan or a shawl, but to give your outfit a little bit of edge, consider packing a trendy leather or jean jacket. It will look excellent worn over casual shorts or tank top outfits.

Are you getting ready for your Croatia trip? You might also need a few more items for your vacation.

We have made a list of the travel essentials to make it easier for you:

• Mobile phone
• Water Bottle
• Money belt / secret wallet
• Walking shoes
• Jet lag relief
• Motion sickness relief
• Mosquito repellent
• Waterproof phone bag
• Adapters and converters

I am the founder of In The Fashion Jungle, A site that aims to bring the latest trends and fashion news to our readers. I have extensive experience in the fashion industry, having worked in fashion manufacturing, production, and quality control for many years.

My passion for fashion began at a young age, and I pursued a degree in fashion design to further hone my skills. After graduation, I worked with several well-known fashion brands, where I gained valuable experience in all aspects of fashion production.

Over the years, I have developed a keen eye for fashion trends and have a deep understanding of the manufacturing process. This has allowed me to successfully launch my own fashion site, where I can share my knowledge and expertise with others who are passionate about fashion.

Through my site, I hope to inspire others to express themselves through fashion, whether it be through clothing, jewelry, or accessories. I believe that fashion is a form of self-expression and that everyone should have the opportunity to feel confident and stylish.

Thank you for taking the time to learn more about me and my passion for fashion. I look forward to sharing my insights with you through my site.

I am the founder of In The Fashion Jungle, A site that aims to bring the latest trends and fashion news to our readers. I have extensive experience in the fashion industry, having worked in fashion manufacturing, production, and quality control for many years. My passion for fashion began at a young age, and I pursued a degree in fashion design to further hone my skills. After graduation, I worked with several well-known fashion brands, where I gained valuable experience in all aspects of fashion production. Over the years, I have developed a keen eye for fashion trends and have a deep understanding of the manufacturing process. This has allowed me to successfully launch my own fashion site, where I can share my knowledge and expertise with others who are passionate about fashion. Through my site, I hope to inspire others to express themselves through fashion, whether it be through clothing, jewelry, or accessories. I believe that fashion is a form of self-expression and that everyone should have the opportunity to feel confident and stylish. Thank you for taking the time to learn more about me and my passion for fashion. I look forward to sharing my insights with you through my site.

Related Posts

Are Doc Martens Smart Casual?

Are Vans Shoes Smart Casual?

Here’s What Business Casual is For a Wedding!

What Is Business Casual For a Restaurant? Explained!

• Skye Gilkeson
• Contributors
• Work with Us
• Privacy Policy
• Email Disclaimer

The Fit Traveller

As luxury travel and wellness experts we help you travel well

Croatia , Packing Guides / August 10, 2015

What to Pack for a Summer Holiday in Croatia

In the lead up to a jealousy-inducing trip , I draw inspiration from my destination during that possibly (definitely) stress of packing when the entire contents of my wardrobe seems to have leapt out in the hopes that they too might see some of the world. A destination as picturesque as Croatia calls for a palette of brilliant blues in a variety of shades, whites and neutrals with tonal accessories. Limiting your colour choices expands your outfit options as everything goes together in an infinite (almost) number of ways. Here’s exactly what to pack for Croatia.

Kate Herisson  

Beyond climate and cultural appropriateness, which is a bit Captain Obvious, I like to consider the surroundings when building a holiday wardrobe. Like a trip to Fiji that features more palm-frond printed pieces than any one person should own. Is that just me?

When considering what to pack for Croatia we’ve made it simple; shop for each event or occasion. Whether you’re headed out exploring, off to the beach or on a cobblestoned run along the stunning coastline, here are some moody Croatian blues to inspire you.

YOU ARE: HEADED TO A DAY CLUB OR OUT TO A LONG LUNCH

SHOP THE LOOK

You are: off to swim and lay beachside on a sun lounge.

YOU ARE: GOING EXPLORING AND GETTING YOUR CULTURE ON

YOU ARE: INJECTING THE ACTIVE INTO YOUR HOLIDAY

This article includes  affiliate links through which we may receive a small commission to help support the growth and development of The Fit Traveller  

Kate Herisson, The Style Press Co – The world of high fashion can sometimes take itself a little too seriously, so Kate combines her love of style, humour and the written word to take readers on a journey of sartorial satire to inject a little fun back into fashion and beauty. Her background in magazines has enabled her to cultivate relationships with some of the biggest beauty brands in the country, allowing her to expand her breadth of knowledge vastly, from lipstick to skin care innovation that she eagerly shares with her readers. When she’s not dipping her left shoulder at the end of an imaginary runway, she can be found doing yoga, running, dreaming of her next travel adventure or drinking tea. Find Kate on Facebook or Instagram

The Fit Traveller may receive compensation for some links to products and services on this website. Prices may be subject to change without notice.

We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites. Read more here.

CONTACT THE FIT TRAVELLER

ABOUT SKYE GILKESON

What to Pack When You Sail Croatia: The Ultimate Packing List for Women

Last Updated: April 1, 2021

*FYI - this post may contain affiliate links, which means we earn a commission at no extra cost to you if you purchase from them. Also, as an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Check out our Privacy Policy and Disclosure. for more info.

It’s crazy to think it was almost two years ago that I got to sail Croatia with MedSailors.

Ahh, as nobody ever says, time flies quicker than a crow on Red Bull and now, oh so many months later, I’m finally ready to chat with you about my biggest regret on that trip.

And that is… I packed like an absolute lunatic.

Seriously. 1 bikini? No snacks? Was I drunk? (Probably)

Regardless of my poorly executed packing, I still had an amazing time sailing around Croatia… but I know things would have been way smoother had I, you know, used any sort of common sense or reason.

But the good news is, because I’ve made these grand, ridiculous mistakes, I can now tell you properly what to pack and not pack for your Croatia sail trip.

If you’re one of the lucky ducks that will be sailing around Croatia this summer, then here’s a guide to packing like a pro (for ladies).

I’ve created it based on a one week sailing itinerary like the one I did, but I’m sure you’re a strong, independent smartie who can adjust as needed. Okay, let’s go!

Save this post for later on Pinterest:

What bag to bring for your Croatia sail trip

Rolling/hard shell suitcases are probably a bad idea.

You’ll need something that you can squish and smoosh into the random little storage areas in the cabins (which tend to be quite limited in size).

Plus, Croatia is covered in cobblestones and while they’re insanely pretty, they’re an absolute nightmare to navigate with a rolling suitcase.

I stole my boyfriend’s Nike duffelbag for the trip ( like one of these ) and it was perfect! Water resistant too 😉

What to pack when you sail Croatia

Smart packing is key to enjoying your Croatia sailing trip with minimal headaches. Here are my top recommended things to pack (split into categories):

2-3 Swimsuits

Sooo, I only brought one. What a fool I was.

When you’re sailing around Croatia, you’ll basically be living in your swimsuits. You should definitely bring at least two so that you have a back-up while one dries.

If you want to be extra cute and prance around in adorable swimsuits like all the other ladies on my trip, then bring some additional ones since you’ll be basically swimsuit-clad all the time.

I honestly got so much bikini FOMO that I caved mid-way through the trip and got myself a sketchy bikini in Korcula. To this day, I’m still convinced it was made of cardboard.

I definitely recommend bringing…

• A strapless swimsuit (for tanning) because you don’t want weird tan lines all over the place
• A one-piece swimsuit because you never know when those food babies will strike (or when you’ll be doing something more athletic that a skimpy bikini isn’t suited for)

If you’re too busy to go through the torture of swimsuit shopping, why not be a total millennial and order a bunch online, then return the ones that you don’t like? There’s a crazy selection on Amazon.

2-3 sundresses or rompers

Something that you can easily throw over top your swimsuit. This is why I would stay away from sheer white (unless you plan to win a wet T-shirt contest). Colourful/printed items would be better as they don’t get as visibly dirty or wet.

2 pairs of shorts

Pretty self-explanatory – the only consideration is to make sure any shorts you pack will match every top you pack (so don’t go nuts with insane patterns).

Again, white is probably not a great idea, but otherwise, go wild! Remember (as I just said above) to pack tops that go well with any bottoms you bring. I also recommend tops that could double as “night out” wear if classed up with a necklace or something.

1 “going out outfit”

While the party scene on these trips tends to be pretty casual (I mean, you’re all living on boats), it’s a good idea to bring one glam outfit that makes you feel like a million bucks, whether you prefer dresses, jumpsuits or the almighty “jeans and nice top combo”, you should pack at least one outfit that will give you the confidence of Beyonce on a unicorn.

1 pair of leggings

This will be to sleep in (and to throw on if it gets unexpectedly chilly).

I’d advise bringing leggings or yoga pants in place of Hello Kitty pyjama pants (or whatever your regular PJs are like) because they work double duty and can be worn for cold weather and athletic occasions too!

As someone who has cycled through countless cheap pairs of yoga pants, I recommend you just get a good quality pair from Nike or something and call it a day. Saves you more in the long run!

1 comfortable sleeping shirt

Again, this will mostly be for sleeping, but I recommend bringing something that wouldn’t make you die of embarrassment if you wore it out in public for the same reasons as above. Something that could be worn for athletic purposes might be a good idea.

4-7 pairs of underwear

If you’re okay with handwashing your underwear, then it’s okay to bring fewer pairs of underwear, but since they’re so small and easily scrunchable, I just bring one pair for each night I’ll be there. Saves me the trouble of trying to air dry my delicates in public 😉

I always stalk Victoria’s Secret and wait for one of their sales, which they have constantly! Then I stock up.

Bring one that’s strapless for sure – less weird tan lines that way. You probably could get away with one honestly since you’ll be wearing your swimsuit so often, but it’s up to you!

Again, stalk sales on  Victoria’s Secret and maybe get yourself one of those convertible bras (which are perfect for trips like this where you want to pack light but also avoid getting ridiculous tan lines).

I usually go with a denim jacket since it pairs well with pretty much any summer outfit. No matter when you go, there’s always a chance that it’ll get chilly on an off-day or definitely in the evenings, so remember to bring a light jacket, hoodie, kimono, or something else to keep you warm and cozy.

1 pair of flip flops

You’ll basically live in these, so make sure they’re comfortable.

1 pair of comfortable walking shoes

Everyone has their own shoe preferences so all I’m going to say is you should pack one pair of shoes that you can walk forever in (and potentially ride a bike in or endure some soft physical activity).

I personally love sandals for this purpose – they’re so versatile and if you find the perfect comfy pair, you’ll feel like an unstoppable superhero in them.

My sandals from Clarks are still the comfiest I’ve ever worn and they’ve been with me on a series of misadventures, from awkward bike rides to accidental mountain climbs and hikes. I can vouch for their comfort!

I can’t find my exact pair online anymore, but here are some similar ones.

OPTIONAL: 1 pair of jeans

If you get cold easily, it might be a good idea to bring a pair of jeans with you for unexpectedly bad weather or for evenings. I personally was fine with dresses and a jacket during the day though.

Hanging toiletries bag/organizer

SO SO SO important. Selection on the islands is pretty slim and it’s surprisingly pricey (probably because they love to squeeze the pennies out of forgetful tourists). You can be lazy and order yourself a bottle online right now if you hate going shopping like I do 😉

Good luck taming your lion-esque mane after the salt and wind is through with it. Don’t forget to bring a great hairbrush or comb because trust me, those tangles happen reaaaal quick. PS: Did you know they actually make special de-tangling hairbrushes now? Here’s a really cheap one . What a time to be alive.

I highly recommend getting a small travel-sized one that has its own case (you know, so it doesn’t touch all your other toiletries and stuff). I bought this one for my sailing trip and it was perfect – small, compact, cheap and still effective.

Body wash, shampoo and conditioner

I’ll level with you: odds are you won’t be showering that regularly… showering on board is kind of a nightmare with the tiny showers, plus you’ll be taking tips in the water so regularly that you’ll never feel gross or in need of a good shower.

I personally only showered properly when we had access to land showers (which was 2 or 3 times during the trip I think). SO, keep that in mind – no need to bring a ton of body wash, shampoo and conditioner.

I definitely recommend getting some of these reusable bottles so you can fill them up with the right amount of your favourites. Otherwise, invest in solid shampoo bars. My friends swear by the ones from LUSH but you can get some online too for a reasonable price.

Toothbrush and toothpaste

Pretty self-explanatory, but might I suggest getting a bamboo toothbrush? It’s so cheap and way better for the earth than plastic ones. Check out this super affordable four pack!

Life at sea can really dry your lips out. Keep them nice and nourished with a good lip balm. In my mind, you can’t go wrong with Burt’s Bees .

That Croatian sun is a sure recipe for sweaty days and nights. Spare the noses of those around you and make sure you’ve got deodorant.

If you’re looking for a good one that lasts a ridiculously long time, my go-to is the Lady Speed Stick Invisible Dry Power (haha what a name!).

I can’t actually buy it in Europe so literally stock up every time I’m home. It promises 48h protection and actually does. Amazing.

Accessories

I recommend bringing at least two pairs. Much like the swimsuit, you’ll be wearing these pretty much all the time (and also wearing the same pair might give you super prominent tan lines). I love my Ray Bans and swear by them ( you can browse deals on them here ).

I personally have the Clubmaster Classic and the Original Wayfarer Classic . Bask in my classic-ness.

So, so basic but so, so fun. Some yachts will provide floaties but if you want to make sure you have something cool to lounge on, then bring your own!

I’ll never forget the floaty-envy I experienced on my trip… some of the guys next door had brought this giant, gorgeous flamingo, which I stared longingly at as I flopped on my flimsy green alligator. You can check out my roundup of the best affordable pool floaties online here.

I know this is a weird one, but actually a lot of people brought flags from their home countries to raise on our boats and it was really cool!

This was something I never thought to pack, and you can easily buy cheap ones off of Amazon here . You don’t need a massive one, so it won’t take up too much space in your bag either. To this day, I still regret not repping Canada like I should have!

1-2 statement necklaces

I know it sounds a little unnecessary but statement necklaces are small, easy-to-bring accessories that can instantly jazz up an outfit for your nights out. Instead of packing a bunch of outfits for the day vs. the night, I would personally focus on bringing a few pieces that can be classed up with statement necklaces so that overall, you need to pack less. Ideally, these necklaces will match all/most of the tops/dresses you choose to bring.

Whether a backpack or purse, make sure you bring a smaller bag for when you dock and explore around. I’m partial to cross-body purses that are big enough to fit a camera but still look cute with your overall outfit ( like this one! )

Additional Necessities

Travel insurance.

At the risk of sounding like a total mom, you should really make sure you have insurance when you are sailing around Croatia.

I’ve just heard so many horror stories of people slipping on deck and breaking an arm, or accidentally getting knocked in the head mid-sail.

The truth is, with a sailing trip, there’s more potential liabilities, so you need to make sure you’re covered. I’ve used WorldNomads in the past and they’re really simple and easy to use online.

Important travel documents

The usual! Don’t forget your passport, a copy of your insurance info, driver’s license, student card (if you have one), a copy of your credit card/debit card info in case you lose them, print-outs of any confirmations/bookings, etc.

Camera/phone

Obviously something to capture all your great memories. Something waterproof like a GoPro would be ideal, and I also recommend getting a waterproof case for your phone too just in case. They make ones that work with touch screens like this one too so you can use your phone in the water.

Motion sickness tablets

I never get sea sick and even some days I was feeling nauseous from the constant motion and erm, maybe the very indulgent lunches we had on board. Still, make sure you have some motion sickness tablets on hand, because even if you don’t need them, I guarantee some poor soul will. Gravol is my go-to!

Some instant noodles, meals or snacks

Do you know what tiny Croatian islands do NOT have? McDonalds, 24h kebab shops, or even pizza joints that will be there to welcome you with a greasy slice of happiness after a night out.

Unless you want to starve (or spend $10 on a slice of pizza in Hvar like I apparently did), then I highly recommend you bring a few snacks/instant meals like noodles.

Some companies don’t allow this but MedSailors was fine with it. I still remember how after one particularly boozey evening, we were scouring the streets for food on a small local island, only to find nothing.

Our saving grace was that one of the couples on board had packed a bunch of instant rice/noodle packets all the way from India. Instant food had never tasted so good.

PS: I recently discovered that you can buy instant noodles in bulk online for really cheap. Super dangerous revelation, but I figured I would share. Click here to scope out the options.

Portable speaker

Bring a good portable speaker with a ready-loaded playlist of sailing jams and you’ll be the most popular person on-board.

I highly recommend getting Spotify premium and loading your phone up with awesome playlists before-hand. One of the girls on my boat did this and it was great! A lightweight and portable one like this would be perfect.

Playing Cards

You’ll be spending loads of time on board. Here’s a deck of waterproof playing cards that would be perfect. If you want to be really, really prepared, you can splurge out on these magnetic playing cards that are guaranteed to not blow away in the wind. Perfect for sailing!

A Good Book

You’ll have plenty of time to lounge out in the sun with a good book, so don’t forget to bring one! Don’t worry about bringing more than one – other passengers are usually more than happy to swap and share. Here are today’s best book deals on Amazon if you need some ideas!

Local Currency

The local currency in Croatia is the kuna. I highly recommend you get some cash out before you start your trip because it’s one less thing to worry about, and you might not find a ton of free ATMs on smaller islands. Plus, odds are you’ll end up splitting bills, buying small things in shops, etc. which is why cash will be crucial.

For your phone, camera and any electronics you bring. Remember that Croatia uses EU plugs (the two rounded prong ones) so an adapter might be a good idea too if you’re coming from outside of Europe. A universal adapter like this one is a must for any trip 🙂

Small locks

I’ve never heard of any thefts happening on board, but it’s always better safe than sorry! I recommend buying a few of these small locks and keeping one in every bag just in case. They’re so small and you never know when they’ll come in handy.

What not to pack when you sail Croatia

Any expensive crap.

Go with this rule: don’t bring anything that you’d be sad about losing. Sailing trips are fun, but messy. You might accidentally chuck something off the boat, lose it while swimming, even misplace it somewhere on the boat, never to be seen again.

I know you’re fancy and bougie and you want the world to know, but for the sake of your sanity, leave the gold Rolexes and diamond rings at home 😉

[Unless you’re proposing… which a guy totally did on my trip. So cute, and not jealous.]

Unless you enjoy falling off boats and broken ankles 😉

Okay, a bit exaggerated, but trust me: the sail trip vibe is so casual that you definitely don’t need stilettos to look glam on a night out.

Plus, Croatia is mega-cobblestoned, which (when mixed with too many winos especially) is a recipe for disaster. Did I mention yet that you should probably get travel insurance?

Unless you work online, odds are you won’t need your laptop when you’re sailing around Croatia.

First of all, Internet access will be pretty limited while you’re sailing and odds are good that some water might get on it… better safe than sorry and leave the Macbook at home to enjoy that sweet digital detox life.

If you must though, consider bringing a waterproof laptop case too like this one .

You honestly won’t need it. You’ll be in the water half the time and don’t forget that a lot of people are sensitive to smells and perfumes.

These girls on a nearby boat would literally bathe themselves in perfume some days and it was awful! Definitely wouldn’t recommend it.

Alrighty, I hope you enjoyed that lengthy guide on what to pack for your Croatia sailing trip! If you have any questions, feel free to ask in the comments.

My Go-To Travel Favourites:

🧳 Eagle Creek: My favourite packing cubes

💳 Wise: For FREE travel friendly credit cards

🍯 Airalo: My go-to eSIM

🏨 Booking.com: For searching hotels

📷 Sony A7IV: My (amazing) camera

✈️ Google Flights : For finding flight deals

🌎 WorldNomads: For travel insurance

🎉 GetYourGuide: For booking activities

2 thoughts on “What to Pack When You Sail Croatia: The Ultimate Packing List for Women”

Love how you included a list of what NOT to pack! Honestly, I’m not a perfume person (I get allergic thanks to my asthma!) so it’s nice to see it on the list. 😉 ❤️ – Charmaine Ng | Architecture & Lifestyle Blog https://charmainenyw.com

I absolutely loved this list. Even though I’m a Flight Attendant, when it comes to packing for vacation, because I fly standby, I tend to overpack to be ready for everything and just in case we end up staying longer or even switching destinations and extending our trip for a long layover in a new country on the way home. I have a few updates or suggestions to add: More than one pair of leggings, two wouldn’t take up much room, especially if you don’t bring a pair of jeans. BUG SPRAY, natural bug repellant bracelets. If I had to choose between bug repellant and sunscreen, I would have chosen to not be eaten alive. Mosquitos are known for being extra hungry at dusk and dawn. It seems like we got the most bites while we dined since we weren’t moving or getting a breeze. A portable rechargeable fan from amazon is something I always bring when traveling. For overheating, motion sickness, stuffy rooms, or moving air to deter mosquitos. Friends who weren’t feeling well borrowed it, and I left it run and recharge plugged into a micro USB plug every night. A sweater, comfortable jacket is great for flights. Even more multi-purpose would be if it was a windbreaker or water resistant shell. It rained in the mornings and sometimes the day, during our early September 2019 trip.

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

By using this form you agree with the storage and handling of your data by this website. *

NEWS... BUT NOT AS YOU KNOW IT

Eurovision star Olly Alexander reveals what went wrong with ‘wardrobe malfunction’ at semi-final

Share this with

Sorry, this video isn't available any more.

Eurovision star Olly Alexander has revealed that he suffered a wardrobe malfunction during his semi-final performance – but managed to play it off smoothly.

Last night, fans finally had the chance to watch his hypnotising performance of his track Dizzy at the first semi-final in Sweden , and he didn’t disappoint.

Many viewers watching at home shared how blown away they were by the spectacle , which included the singer going upside down in a box surrounded by male dancers in an unapologetically queer celebration.

However, some might have noticed that the 33-year-old had to deal with a mishap on stage when his mic pack fell off his outfit and was dangling by its wire.

On Wednesday morning, the musician appeared on Lorraine Kelly’s ITV chat show to talk about what happened, when he realised the moment it went wrong on live TV.

‘Oh my goodness me. This whole Eurovision experience, wild. Last night was amazing. The first time we’re performing in front of the whole arena on live TV,’ he began.

Join Metro's Eurovision community on WhatsApp

Eurovision calling! To keep you up to date on everything going on in Malmö, we're hosting a party for everybody (well, maybe just Eurovision fans) over on WhatsApp.

We'll send you all the drama, memes and iconic moments from the live shows, plus behind the scenes gossip.

You can also get involved by sending your reactions to each of the acts and voting for your favourites in our polls, as we get closer to finding out who will be the winner of Eurovision 2024.

Just follow this link , select ‘Join Chat’ and you’re in!

‘It was just – it was amazing. I had a slight wardrobe malfunction – my mic pack fell off, so I had to improvise with that, but it’s fine, that’s live TV, it happens.’

In a clip from the performance, Olly could be seen quickly grabbing the mic pack in his left hand as he continued singing, as soon as he realised that it had fallen off.

Some viewers did spot the wardrobe malfunction play out on live TV – including Lorraine.

‘Do you know what, you did so, so well with that, because I think a lot of people… I noticed it, but I think a lot of people wouldn’t have realised that the microphone pack just came away,’ she told her guest.

‘You’re having to… this isn’t in the script, I’m having to do this. So well done on that!’

Lorraine, 64, also had Olly blushing when she stressed how ‘naughty’ his performance had been, which saw him surrounded by shirtless male dancers in boxing-style ensembles.

Looking slightly bashful and covering his mouth with his hand in response to the TV presenter’s quip, he answered: ‘A little bit spicy.’

He went on to praise his dancers, stating: ‘They’re absolutely incredible. The things these guys have to do – they’re hanging upside down, they’re so fit, they’re so strong. Their performance, they’re so in character. We’ve really pushed it, and the team is just fantastic.’

During last night’s performance of Dizzy by Olly, some fans couldn’t help but compare the staging of his spectacle to an iconic 00s horror film .

As Olly was spinning around in the box, with his dancers defying gravity in what looked like a grimy bathroom setting, some X users pointed out that it looked just like the bathroom scene in the 2004 classic Saw .

‘@alexander_olly’s staging is giving Saw bathroom 😂 we just need a sliding door, a bath and a hack saw and it’ll be complete,’ James wrote.

‘Olly in the Saw bathroom???’ an astonished user called remarked, while Nathan added: ‘Obsessed with the staging of Olly Alexander’s #Eurovision performance. It’s giving the movie Saw if it was a queer musical.’

UK performance in a nutshell #EurovisionRTVE #Eurovision #Eurovision2024 pic.twitter.com/RveZa8tKGx — LuRi Art ✨🌈🏳️‍⚧️ COMMS OPEN (@lur_iart) May 7, 2024

Believe it or not, Saw wasn’t the only movie that Olly’s dizzying performance was compared to, as others also recalled Zac Efron’s spinning school hallway stunt from High School Musical 3 .

Elsewhere, fans were simply left in awe by the whole thing.

‘Some of the best staging I’ve ever seen in the contest,’ a fan called Lucas shared, while another going by the X handle @cinnamongerru added: ‘OLLY YOU ATE IT UP!! Oh how UK went from Flop to true contender in a span of three years needs to be studied!!’

‘Brilliant #Eurovision 1st semi-final. olly alexander was just incredible!!! Bring on the final 🇬🇧🇬🇧,’ Annie wrote.

Tonight marked the first time that the UK has performed in a Eurovision semi-final, as the UK automatically makes it through to the grand final every year, as one of the ‘big five’ nations alongside France, Germany, Spain and Italy.

The countries that made it through to the final after tonight’s first semi-final were: Croatia, Cyprus, Finland, Ireland, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Portugal, Serbia, Slovenia and Ukraine.

Ireland’s qualification marks the first time in six years that the country has made it to the grand finale, the last time being in 2018.

Ahead of the first semi-final, Olly spoke to Metro.co.uk and other media, where he admitted that he felt ‘ambivalent’ towards the Union Jack flag .

‘I’ve grown up in the UK, there’s a lot that I love about the UK, maybe the people and I’m lucky to have grown up in the UK,’ he said.

‘I too have an ambivalent relationship with the Union Jack and what that represents to people because it can feel divisive, it can feel nationalist, but it can also feel like a representation of what’s good about the UK and what makes it good – it’s the inclusivity, the diversity.

‘I am choosing to kind of focus on those aspects of what I believe being in the UK has given me in my upbringing as well.’

The Eurovision Song Contest Semi-Finals air on Tuesday, May 7, and Thursday, May 9, at 8pm on BBC One and iPlayer. The Grand Final airs on Saturday, May 11, at 8pm on BBC One and iPlayer.

Got a story?

If you’ve got a celebrity story, video or pictures get in touch with the Metro.co.uk entertainment team by emailing us [email protected], calling 020 3615 2145 or by visiting our Submit Stuff page – we’d love to hear from you.

MORE : WIN VIP tickets to Pub In The Park worth £110 each

MORE : Noughties chart-topper, 42, hasn’t aged 18 years after massive hit

MORE : What time is Eurovision 2024 and who are the presenters?

Get us in your feed

pack light stylishly e-book

An informative and easy-to-follow guide to creating a stylish travel capsule wardrobe that you can take anywhere!

(Price: $14.99 $7.99)

In PACK LIGHT STYLISHLY , world traveler and packing expert Alexandra Jimenez curates her tips into an easy-to-follow and helpful guide on creating a stylish capsule wardrobe that can travel for any length of time to any destination.

With nearly 100-pages of invaluable information, PACK LIGHT STYLISHLY breaks down the right fabrics for travel, shows you how to create a palette of colors that can become your essential personal style, and gives illustrative examples of seasonal travel capsule wardrobes using only 10 to 15 pieces of clothing,  so you can pack lightly, fashionably, and efficiently!

Alex assists you in developing the most versatile pieces and packing strategies for carry-on travel around the globe, whether you travel for leisure, for business, or both.

What You Will Learn From This E-Book

What You Will Learn From

This E-Book

learn THE BENEFITS OF PACKING LIGHT

Packing the right items will make travel more affordable , enjoyable, and fun!

plan A CAPSULE WARDROBE

Learn what a capsule wardrobe is and why this system has helped thousands of other travelers!

choose CLOTHING FOR YOUR CAPSULE TRAVEL

Know the best fabrics and styles to create a personalized wardrobe!

customize YOUR PACKING LIST

Use any of our 4 universal packing lists to plan around your travel needs!

coordinate TRAVEL ACCESSORIES

Get expert help on pairing your shoes and other accessories with your travel clothing!

skip BAGGAGE CLAIM LINES

Get 5 easy tips to never have to pay for a checked bag again!

Feel Great in Your Own Skin

(no matter which city you’re in)

Even experienced travelers will benefit from this guide, and with less than 100 easy-to-read pages you will breeze through it, and be mastering your own packing lists and dream destinations before you know it.

Take a look at a sample of the e-book and catch a glimpse of how you can tailor the perfect packing list for any trip you have in mind!

Customer Reviews

For the first time ever, I was able to pack carry-on only for my daughter and me for a weekend trip using this book. Not only is this book great for packing tips, but it also gives you awesome formulas for putting together capsule wardrobes. Even though I was only going for a weekend, I packed a capsule that would have allowed many different outfit changes. I cannot recommend this book enough if you are a traveler! –  A.D.G

If you want to stop overpacking and learn to pack carry on, Alex’s book is a must-read. She covers EVERYTHING! From luggage, clothes, makeup, shoes, undergarments, and anything else you can think of. Alex understands that there are many women that want to pack light but still want to look stylish while roaming the world. I love the pictures that show exact clothing combos with shoes that give a great visual for those of us that learn better from visual examples. To our fellow travelers and over packers, get this book—you won’t regret it! –  S.M.D

I’d recommend this book to anyone who travels, whether for business or pleasure. Alexandra’s advice is practical and useful and she presents travel wardrobes for trips of several lengths. She also includes sources for specific clothing and items she has used. GREAT BOOK!-  Eileen

Here’s a Sneak Peek at the Capsule Wardrobes

A maxi dress can be worn practically anywhere but a low neckline can’t. A button-up blouse is versatile, but if it’s too sheer it might be too revealing. Short shorts may look cute, but how short is too short?

You have more flexibility with prints and color for tops in warm weather because you don’t have to worry about layering them together. In fact, in certain areas, high heat and humidity make layering downright uncomfortable.

yes , I’M READY TO PACK LIGHT AND STYLISHLY!

✓  Build a fashionable capsule travel wardrobe ✓  Four universal packing lists versatile for any trip ✓  Coordinate your shoes and accessories with your travel clothing ✓  Easy tips to help you skip baggage fees

Price: $14.99 $7.99