Help Packing for Greece Trip

[auroracoor1]

I am starting to make my pack list for Greece. I plan to get there at the end of August. What is the weather like? It's been a while since I've been and I need answers to some questions:

- Does it get cold at night?
- Should I expect some rain?
- How are the winds? Will I need a windbreaker?

Also I am curious about fashion stuff... what do the women tend to wear in Greece? I know that's vague, but I don't want to look totally like a tourist in my wardrobe.

 

[Deborah]

Where are you going? How cool it gets at night will depend on where in Greece you’re going and if there’s a breeze. I usually take a very light-weight black (no button) cardigan just in case to wear over bare-shoulder dresses at night. The change in season with typically some more rain and wind, generally doesn’t occur until the 3rd week in September. Episodes of summer rain are usually intense, but brief unless you’re dealing with a multi-day weather front. A light rain/windbreaker jacket or a travel umbrella could be taken “just in case” but probably won’t be needed.

I like to wear a casual day dress with sandals in Athens, but you’ll see everyone wearing shorts, sneakers, large satchels and backpacks, and HATS! To not stand out too much as a tourist, carrying less is more - the same is definitely true of luggage! A lot of suitcase companies offer compression packing cubes. Honestly for years I’ve used two gallon zip-lock bags, grouped similar items, and managed to pack for 7 weeks (Aug./Sept.,Greece & Italy) in a 22” bag!

I would stick to a more neutral palette with maybe some solid pops of color - and only take clothes that you truly feel comfortable in and that mix well. Suitcase editing is the challenge, but it pays off and it’s been very rare that I’ve wished for something left at home or that I felt inappropriately dressed. Since you’ve been to Greece before, you probably already know what type of clothing worked the best for you. Hope this helps!

 

[k_tsoukalas]

Deborah gave some great advice. I have a wardrobe where everything kind of goes together, so I am able to take fewer pieces. I always pack a lightweight covering like a sweater or windbreaker even when I go in the summer.

I would suggest not waiting until the last minute - think about what you need outfits for and lay it all out, and let yourself edit as needed.