10 Travel Essentials I Recommend for Portugal

What I always recommend having with you when travelling around Portugal 🇵🇹

After many years of travelling around Portugal — both for work and pleasure — I have learned that a few simple things can make a big difference to your travel experience.

Portugal is a wonderful country to explore on foot. From the cobbled streets of Lisbon and Porto to the beautiful trails of Madeira, there can be quite a lot of walking involved. And if you are travelling around the country, you may also find yourself changing hotels several times.

So, what do I actually recommend taking with you?

Here are 10 travel essentials I find particularly useful when travelling around Portugal.

1. Packing Cubes

Packing cubes are one of those things I didn't realise I needed until I started using them.

When travelling around Portugal and changing hotels, they make it much easier to keep everything organised — especially if you are doing a longer trip.

I like being able to separate clothes, underwear and other items rather than having everything mixed together in my suitcase.

My tip: Choose lightweight packing cubes that don't take up too much space themselves.

2. A Universal Travel Adapter

If you are travelling to Portugal from outside Europe, I recommend bringing a universal travel adapter.

Portugal uses European-style two-pin plugs, and having your own adapter means you don't have to worry about finding one when you arrive.

It's a small thing — but one I prefer to have packed before I leave home.

3. A Good Power Bank

I use my phone for so many things when travelling: maps, tickets, restaurant reservations, photos, translations and, of course, taking pictures.

That means a dead phone can be surprisingly inconvenient.

A compact power bank is therefore one of the things I like to have in my day bag, especially when I know I'll be out exploring all day.

4. Comfortable Walking Shoes

This one is high on my list.

Portugal is a country you really want to explore on foot, but some of the surfaces can be challenging.

Lisbon and Porto have plenty of cobbled streets, while places such as Sintra and Madeira can involve slopes, steps and uneven paths.

My advice is simple: choose comfort over fashion when it comes to your walking shoes.

Your feet will thank you at the end of the day! 😊

5. A Lightweight Daypack

A small, comfortable daypack is incredibly useful when exploring Portugal.

I use one for the things I need during the day — water, sunglasses, a light jacket, my phone, camera and a few other essentials.

For city sightseeing, I prefer something lightweight and comfortable rather than a large backpack.

6. A Comfortable Crossbody Bag

For city trips, I personally like having a small crossbody bag that keeps my essentials close to me.

It's convenient when walking around busy areas, using public transport or stopping at cafés and restaurants.

Look for something lightweight, comfortable and big enough for the things you actually need — rather than carrying your entire handbag around Portugal!

7. A Reusable Water Bottle

Portugal can be warm, particularly during the summer months, and I always recommend carrying water with you when sightseeing or walking.

A reusable bottle is practical, saves you from buying a new plastic bottle every time you get thirsty and is particularly useful when heading out on a longer walk.

For Madeira, I would definitely put this on my packing list.

8. A Waterproof Phone Pouch

This is one of those little travel items that can be surprisingly useful.

Whether you're spending a day at the beach, taking a boat trip or simply want some extra protection for your phone while walking, a waterproof phone pouch can give you a little peace of mind.

And if you are anything like me, you'll want to protect your phone because that's where all those holiday photos are going!

9. A Small Luggage Scale

If you are travelling around Portugal with checked luggage, a small luggage scale can be very handy.

Especially if you are anything like me and tend to bring home a few extra things after travelling...

Portuguese food, wine, ceramics and local products have a habit of finding their way into my suitcase! 🇵🇹

A luggage scale takes up very little room and can save you an unpleasant surprise at the airport.

10. A Small Tripod for Your Phone

And finally — something I particularly recommend if you enjoy taking photos and videos when travelling.

A small, lightweight phone tripod can be incredibly useful when travelling alone or when you want a photo of yourself without having to ask a stranger every time.

It is also useful if you create Instagram Reels or other travel content.

I prefer a compact model that fits easily into a daypack.

My Portugal Travel Essentials

You certainly don't need all of these things to enjoy Portugal.

But after spending so much time travelling around the country, these are the types of items I find myself recommending again and again.

The most important thing?

Bring comfortable shoes, keep your phone charged and leave a little space in your suitcase. 😉

You never know what Portuguese treasure you might want to take home with you.

Planning your trip to Portugal?

Have a look at my Portugal Travel Guides for inspiration, practical tips and ideas for places to visit.

And if you're heading to Madeira, don't miss my Madeira Travel Guide — one of my favourite places in Portugal.

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