My Santorini Packing Guide

Recently, I shared my trip recap and review from my honeymoon in Santorini (if you missed it, check it out HERE). It was a beautiful island and looked exactly like one of those wanderlust-y computer screensavers. While my trip review outlines a lot of details - like top restaurants, things we did, transportation, and more - I left out my packing list since I figured it was worthy of its own call out.

Curious to know what I brought for our 5 day, 4 night stay? Scroll down to find out more!

We stayed near Oia during early October. While the weather was beautiful – sunshine and blue skies with temps in the 80s – it did get chilly once the sun went down and some days were windy. We didn’t spend any time at the beach since the water was so cold (but we did sail around and jump off the boat), but we spent plenty of time lounging near the outdoor pool at our hotel. If you were visiting in the hotter summer months, take care to pack lighter fabrics to survive the heat! PS - you can EASILY pack all of this in a carry on!

My Santorini Packing Guide

• One pair of shorts – I opted for denim shorts, but you could go with a lighter cotton/linen pair if you’re expecting hot weather. It would also be easy to slip another pair into a carry on (I wish I had so I recommend it).

• One lightweight, baggy cardigan – one of my favorite beach-y essentials. This is perfect for covering up your skin without overheating (I’m super pale so I burn easily).

• Maxi dress – I went with a fun blue printed maxi dress that stood out against the white architecture beautifully. It was dressy for a nice dinner out, but the extra length kept me warm on the breezy nights.

• Black tank dress – this can double up as a beach cover-up as well. This was fairly casual and in a breathable cotton fabric.

• Printed romper – another fun way to add in color! I love rompers and this could take me from pool to dinner to drinks with ease.

• 3 tops – I packed along three tank tops that I paired with my jean shorts. While I probably only needed to pack two, I brought an ice blue top that was a little dressier, making it perfect for dinner. I would suggest packing an athletic style top if you planned to hike around the island.

• 2 bikinis – I like to pack two so I can let one dry out while wearing the other. Cupshe (not affiliated in any way) is my go-to site for swimsuit shopping!

• Jacket – truly a lifesaver. I tucked away a colorful windbreaker jacket and brought it with me everywhere I went. It made days on the sea comfortable and beachside, late-night dinners bearable. It really got chilly and windy some nights so I was glad I brought this!

• Sunhat – I burn easily so this helped protect my face. Bonus points for making me feel glamorous while hiding my windswept hair.

• Sunglasses – a must-pack whenever the sun is shining.

• Flip flips – these were reserved for times at the pool or on the boat since I didn’t have the most supportive pair packed. If you planned to wear these walking around, make sure yours are suitable for that!

• Comfortable flats – I spent most of my time wearing a pair of supportive flats. I kept these neutral so they could match all my outfits.

• Sneakers – wear these while traveling so you don’t have to pack bulky shoes in your carry on. These were necessary for the more challenging walks we took (like up and down the stairs to Amoudi Bay). If you plan on doing any type of hiking or extensive walking, make sure to pack a pair.

• 2 bras – one black bra and a nude bralette. I wore my swimsuit under my clothes most days.

• 2 pairs of socks – I didn’t wear my sneakers often so I only needed to pack two pairs. Add an extra pair or two if you plan to hike around or wear your tennis shoes more often. Sweaty socks are never fun.

• Underwear – my rule of thumb is to always pack a pair for each day you are traveling, plus one extra.

• Lightweight PJ set – sleep shorts and tank top to keep me comfy at night. I pick really lightweight fabrics so it can pack down with ease.

• Other travel essentials – beauty/makeup products, things like deodorant/toothbrush/toothpaste/etc., adapter, phone charger, and other necessary items

Final packing notes – if I could have packed along anything extra, it would have been a pair of athletic shorts and an athletic-y top for hiking. Since the temperatures weren’t too crazy while we were there, I didn’t get too sweaty. But if you were there in summer, consider packing a few extra tops or shorts (in light fabrics) to change as needed. Otherwise, you can always make do with sink washing items as needed!

We spent a few days in Mykonos prior to Santorini and a lot of the stuff I had packed worked for both islands – you could probably use this packing guide as a good base for other Greek Islands you planned to visit. I would suggest packing some items that have bold pops of colors (for some reason, I happened to pack a lot of blue!) since it stands out against all the white buildings. Santorini is the driest place in Europe so plan and pack accordingly! Bring your sunscreen, sunhat, sunglasses and cover up!

Don’t forget to check out my Santorini trip review HERE – it’s worth the read!

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