What to Pack for 6 Months in Spain

Before I moved to Madrid, I read what felt like EVERY single blog on what to pack. Upon reflection, I wound up packing for an extended vacation and not for 6 months of living. In January, I was overly concerned about fitting all of my clothes and toiletries in my suitcases. But by the end of my time in Spain, I was wishing I had made more space in my bags for the items I use on a daily basis. 

Here is my discombobulated list of things from home I’m glad I packed, along with things I wish I had brought with me. 

Portable Speaker 

• In my day-to-day life, my JBL Flip 4 speaker plays a starring role. I use it in the shower, pregaming a night out, hanging out in the park, tanning at the pool, and beach days. I deeply missed my speaker while abroad and frequently regretted not packing it.

Robe

• My hot pink towel bathrobe is one of my most prized possessions. While packing, I felt like she took up too much room in my suitcase. But everyday I grieved for her. She was a daily companion and I should have done everything in my power to save her. 

Slippers

• Going along with my hot pink towel bathrobe, my slippers with smiling flowers on the top are a daily necessity and my go-to house shoes. While living in Madrid, my Birkenstocks became my house shoes, but I longed for my cozier slippers. 

Tampons 

• My anxiety over this actually paid off, I packed 6 months worth of plastic applicator tampons and I am grateful I did. My roommates and I had difficulties finding tampons with applicators in Spain, France, and Portugal. 

Transitional Pieces 

• Because I was moving in January, I admittedly had tunnel vision worrying about the cold weather, and I ended up packing more than enough coats, hats, and scarfs. However, I wish I packed more versatile, transitional wardrobe pieces. From March to May, I often wore my cardigan and flannel shirts in the mornings because I was able to layer them. Then in the afternoons, like on my commute home from school, I could take off the warmer layers. I suggest packing a mix of cardigans, long sleeves, and shackets that can be worn in multiple seasons. 

Shampoo Scalp Massager Hairbrush-thing 

• Although I’m not convinced this actually does anything to help my hair grow or make it healthier (I think it’s a placebo), this is still an item that is part of my everyday routine when I’m at home. I think my shampoo scalp massager hairbrush-thing is the perfect example of what I’m trying to convey with this blog. When questioning whether or not to pack something while moving, think about how frequently you use it. 

My central idea here is I would encourage anyone who is moving and has to drastically downsize to take the time to make an intentional, solid list of clothes, accessories, and personal items that you use everyday. 

Sincerely, 

The Girl Who Mourned Her Hot Pink Towel Bathrobe For 6 Months