Berlin guide
🇩🇪 Packing List
What to pack for Berlin
In May, Berlin is typically cool, expect showers (9°C - 19°C). This list adapts to those conditions; adjust for your exact travel dates.
Berlin essentials
- Very casual. Berlin is relaxed. Black is very popular. Sneakers and jeans fine almost everywhere.
Documents
- Photo ID
- Passport (valid 6+ months)
- Visa / e-visa printout
- Return / onward flight tickets
- Travel insurance policy
- Hotel booking confirmations
- Passport-size photographs (2-4)
- Photocopies / phone photos of passport and tickets, stored separately
Clothing
- Casual day outfits
- One smart-casual outfit for dinners
- Comfortable closed walking shoes
- A warm jacket or fleece
- Layers for cool evenings
- Light rain jacket or poncho
- Compact umbrella
- Undergarments and sleepwear
- Enough outfits for 7 days (6 sets)
- Layered outfits you can add or remove as the day warms
Toiletries & health
- Toothbrush, toothpaste, and toiletries
- Sunscreen (SPF 30+)
- Personal medication with prescription
- Basic first-aid: band-aids, painkillers, ORS
- Hand sanitiser and wet wipes
- Very high standards. Street food like currywurst and döner stands are safe.
Electronics
- Phone and charger
- Power bank
- Camera (optional)
- Power adaptor: Type C/F plugs (European), 230V.
Money
- Debit / credit cards
- Local currency: Euro (EUR)
- Cash still king in Germany. Many restaurants cash-only.
Local know-how
- Local SIM: Telekom, Vodafone, O2. SIMs at supermarkets, electronics stores. EU roaming applies.
- Small coins for paid public toilets
- Overcharging at some tourist restaurants
- May highlights: Karneval der Kulturen; May Day celebrations