Cologne guide
🇩🇪 Packing List
What to pack for Cologne
In February, Cologne is typically cold, expect showers (1°C to 7°C). This list adapts to those conditions; adjust for your exact travel dates.
Cologne essentials
- Casual. Costumes for Carnival.
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 walking shoes
- Warm insulated coat
- Thermal base layers
- Warm hat, gloves and scarf
- Warm socks
- Light rain jacket or poncho
- Compact umbrella
- Undergarments and sleepwear
- Enough outfits for 7 days (6 sets)
- Warm mid-layers (fleece or wool)
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
- Lip balm and moisturiser for cold, dry air
Electronics
- Phone and charger
- Power bank
- Camera (optional)
- Power adaptor: Type C/F plugs, 230V.
Money
- Debit / credit cards
- Local currency: Euro (EUR)
- Cash still common. Cards growing.
Local know-how
- Local SIM: Telekom, Vodafone, O2. Easy prepaid.
- Pickpockets at station
- Peak season in February: keep bags zipped and don't flash jewellery
- February highlights: KARNEVAL (huge!); Rosenmontag parade
Trip gear
- Costume!