Why Tourists Should Be Cautious Of The Clothing They Pack On A Trip To Germany
If you're planning the perfect trip to Germany, you're going to want to pack carefully so that you have everything you need to enjoy your travels. It's one of the largest and most populated countries in the European Union, so there's a lot to see and do as you make your way around. There's truly something for every type of traveler. Whether you're interested in dancing all night at Berlin's world-famous night clubs, meandering around lush gardens, exploring must-see castles, or relaxing on a romantic couples getaway – Germany makes an ideal destination. You'll be able to experience incredible modern cities, historic architecture, and gorgeous natural scenery, so your packing list may look a little different depending on which activities you choose to squeeze into your itinerary.
In order to feel comfortable and confident throughout your travels, you'll want to be cautious that you pack the appropriate types of clothing. Tourists who have never been to Germany may be surprised by the different climates and conditions they encounter during their trip. Comfort is critical while traveling, so you'll want to be ready for everything. If you need help planning the perfect packing list, we've got you covered.
Prepare for sudden changes in the weather
If you've traveled to Europe before and visited countries like Italy or Greece, which are known for their mild Mediterranean climates, you may be surprised to learn that Germany's climate is quite varied. Germany has four distinct seasons, including spring, summer, fall, and winter. Your packing list should change depending on the season that you visit, otherwise you may find yourself ill-prepared and very uncomfortable. Packing based on the season provides a good jumping off point, but it's important to keep in mind that temperatures can vary greatly, even within a particular season, depending on the region and altitude you're visiting.
Germany is divided into four climate zones. North and northwest Germany, where Hamburg is located, is in the coastal region, and the climate is affected by the North Sea and Atlantic Ocean, so it's mostly mild and humid with rainy winters. East Germany is where you'll find Berlin. It has hot summers and cold winters. Central and southern Germany have a mix of continental and Mediterranean climates, and the weather tends to be more mild. In the Alpine regions, the altitude causes the temperatures to be more extreme. The winters are longer and much colder than other parts of the country. Overall, Germany is somewhat cloudy, and rain is common. Regardless of what season you visit, don't forget a packable rain jacket! Make sure to bring plenty of layers so that you can adjust to sudden temperature and weather changes.
Consider your comfort
Carefully pack clothing options that will keep you comfortable as you explore historic destinations and fairytale towns all around the country. Some of Germany's oldest cities, like Xanten and Neuss, date back to ancient Roman times. Frankfurt, one of Germany's most popular tourist destinations, is known for its picturesque cobblestone streets. If you plan on wandering around and sightseeing on foot, don't forget comfortable shoes! Leather tennis shoes, ballet flats, or loafers are great for warmer months. In the winter, opt for a stylish leather boot with some water resistance. Navigating cobblestones with high heels is challenging and can result in stumbles and twisted ankles, but if you must wear pumps, opt for comfy ones with chunky heels.
If you want to avoid being instantly pegged as a tourist, it's a good idea to try to blend in with the local fashions. German's tend to favor muted and neutral color palettes. In general, they prefer simple and stylish outfits, but trends can vary between cities. Berliners, for example, are notorious for their all-black outfits. In general, Europeans tend to dress up a bit more than some tourists might be used to. If you're planning on dining out at a nice restaurant or hitting up the nightlife and you don't want to stick out like a sore thumb, make sure you bring at least one dressy outfit. You can't go wrong with a black dress or a nice fitting pair of trousers and a blazer.