Amsterdam is a city that you will find yourself thinking about long after you have returned home. Between the jaw-dropping architecture, easy intra-city transport, and friendly people, it has to be one of the world’s coolest places.
I’ve created a packing list that includes top items to pack, what NOT to bring, what to wear in Amsterdam, and FAQs.
Be sure to travel with your patience, your sense of adventure, and a lot of curiosity – Amsterdam will bring out the best in you!
You’ll want to carry your passport, credit and debit cards, plus a little cash with you during the day, but you really don’t want to make those things accessible to pickpockets. A neck wallet is ideal because you can wear it beneath your shirt where it’s undetectable by any potential thieves. This way you can carry around your items, enjoy easy access to them when you need them, and keep everything safe from pickpockets.
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When you’re exploring Amsterdam, you’ll notice people tend to dress pretty nicely. On top of that, you will notice that the weather is decently wet there. Many of the seasons in Amsterdam include regular rain showers, and that means that a stylish raincoat is a must-have. This one is stylish, lightweight, and timeless!
Since the Netherlands is a tech hub, it is a prime target for online theft. There were approximately 2-million cyberattack crimes in recent years, and rates are rising globally. A VPN is critical when you access unsecured networks at bars, coffee shops, airports, hotels, etc. This makes your information vulnerable to hackers and other virtual predators. You don’t want to wake up with your credit card number stolen (like I did on vacation in France), a drained bank account, or a sold identity.
A VPN creates an additional shield between you and those criminals that ensures your browsing is not monitored, hacked, or compromised. We use NordVPN because they are the best in class for security, speed, and unlimited bandwidth. It also removes annoying ads and allows you to access the full internet without local censorship and blockages. Don’t risk being without it!
Power outlets in Amsterdam are different from those in the US. You’ll notice that you need a power adapter to charge any of the electronics you bring. We recommend this universal adapter that works in 100+ popular countries. It also includes extra features like built-in fuse protection and useful double USB ports.
Water in Amsterdam tends to be safe to drink, but you will want to carry some with you at all times and not spend a fortune on bottled water bottles (not to mention, plastic waste). My preference when exploring is to have autonomy over my water supply with a filtered water bottle. This one noticeably makes my water taste better, and you can travel with it in your carry-on bag if it’s empty.
Your domestic provider typically does not cover you overseas, and one of the biggest mistakes a traveler could make would be assuming they are covered on vacation. I’ve seen friends face six-figure international hospital bills, and I’ve also seen smart travelers avoid paying out-of-pocket because they were wise enough to get travel insurance. Keep in mind that Dutch Health Services does not cover tourists and Amsterdam is not the cheapest place to require treatment.
It covers you for things like canceled flights, delays, baggage loss, theft, damage, medical emergencies, urgent trips home, and more. We use Faye because they are modernizing the insurance game. With fast reimbursements through their mobile app, you skip the typical claims process, which is lengthy and miserable. Faye is the best provider we’ve ever worked with, and we can’t recommend them enough.
Packing cubes are the absolute best way to transform a cluttered suitcase into an organized one. All of your belongings have a place and you no longer have to rummage around making a mess of your luggage to find what you need. The set of five comes with a variety of sizes and even two bonus laundry bags to separate dirty clothes from clean ones.
Jet lag can seriously ruin your trip. The condition can leave you feeling nauseated, tired, dizzy, and headachy. It’s a good idea to bring some form of relief with you, and these natural pills work wonders. I personally use this type of jet lag supplement both to prevent and to treat the issue because it uses botanicals like chamomile to nourish your body rather than harsh stimulants like caffeine.
I am admittedly obsessed with this toiletry bag. I have tried quite a few bags and had not found the perfect balance of affordability, luxury, and practicality – until I found this one. The material is stain-proof and super soft while the pockets are plentiful, clear to see things quickly, and hold a plethora of products. And the bag itself makes packing, using, and unpacking my toiletry items an absolute breeze.
It is travel-ready and made to last for all of your global jet-setting, weekend road trips, camping adventures, or even simple showers at the gym when you don’t have space to lay out all of your stuff. We’re 1000% in love with it and are surprised by the impact it’s made on our stress levels when living out of a suitcase.
The weather changes quickly in Amsterdam. One day, it can be blue skies and sunny and the next, it’s grey and rainy. A travel umbrella is a must-have so that you can continue to wander along the canal-lined streets even when there’s a bit of rain. The ideal travel umbrella is compact so that you can bring it along in your day bag. This one weighs one pound but is sturdy enough to hold up to strong gusts of wind.
TSA scans an average of 1.5-million bags per day, and regularly – they see a wide-open piece of luggage coming towards them on the carousel. Ensure your dirty laundry isn’t aired out for everyone to see by securing your checked luggage with these adjustable straps. They will take the weight and pressure off your zippers so nothing flies open mid-transit. And for carry-ons, they cinch-in your items like a belt so they actually fit in the overhead compartment.
Additionally, I find the brightly colored straps to be a huge time saver since I avoid sifting through dozens of generic black bags that all start to look the same after a while. With the neon colors, I see my bag from across the arrivals terminal and can get out of the chaos in a flash! These also have a built-in identification card in case your bag gets lost and are backed by a lifetime replacement guarantee.
Bringing a pair of cute, comfortable, and durable flats is one of the most important wardrobe choices you will make while traveling. You will be doing a ton of walking and maybe even bike riding while in Amsterdam, and so you’ll need to protect your feet and keep them comfortable and supported all day, while balancing the need to look fashionable. My wife personally loves these flats, and never has blisters since they are supportive and cushiony. Don’t forget the blister balm as a reinforcement!
Don’t forget to lock up your suitcase once you have all of these essentials packed away. A solid pair of luggage locks could save you from dealing with the headache of having things stolen out of your suitcase. It’s happened to me before so now I always lock our luggage when traveling. I like these luggage locks because they’re lightweight and TSA-approved so they won’t cause you any delays through security.
Style meets practicality with this bag. You will definitely want to have a hands-free way to carry around your daily items while you are in Amsterdam, especially since much of your travel may be by bicycle, boat, or walking. Using a daybag allows you to carry everything you need (phone, wallet, umbrella, water bottle, medicine, camera, etc.) and even leaves room for any souvenirs you may pick up on the way.
Get Your Guide is our favorite booking platform for the top-rated tours in the world. While in Amsterdam – take a canal cruise through the maze-like city, learn about the historic red light district, and (my personal favorite) take a day trip to the breathtaking flower fields of Lisse.
Amsterdam is also known for its fantastic art galleries and museums in town, like the Van Gogh Museum, the Anne Frank Exhibit, and the immersive Gaudí Experience. If you’re looking for an all-inclusive option, the GoCity Pass is ideal since it includes more than thirty experiences.
I recommend quick-drying travel towels for almost any destination. They save so much space in your luggage as opposed to bringing a normal fluffy towel, and they ensure that you will have a clean and reliable option if your accommodations don’t provide them. Sometimes, even if your accommodations do provide towels, the ones they provide are scratchy or not the cleanest, and you don’t want to use them. Having your own is extremely handy, and this one dries 10x faster than cotton so it’s great for on-the-go.
Fight off mosquitos with these wearable wristbands. Mosquitos run rampant in Amsterdam in early spring and autumn. You’ll find them scattered along the canals and areas near the waterways, so if you’re prone to bites, these are wise to bring along. It’s more convenient than respraying all day – but if you prefer a spray, just ensure it’s non-toxic and deet-free.
A portable charger for your devices is crucial. Sometimes it’s very hard to get back to your accommodations just to sit there and wait for items to recharge. Packing a portable charger alleviates this issue because it can carry multiple charges and can be used while you are on the move so that you don’t have to wait for your items to power back up. Simply charge the portable charger while you are sleeping or already in your accommodations, and bring it with you so that you can recharge your items while exploring.
If you plan to have a few beers, enjoy the nightlife of Amsterdam, or stay out late, these will give you a much-needed dose of vitamins and detoxifying herbs. You may not be skipping around town on magic mushrooms or indulging in the red light distinct festivities – but! It’s still smart to pack a hangover-preventative.
If visiting in the winter months, temperatures can drop down to freezing temps. Even in the autumn or early spring, you’ll be glad to have a warm pair of insulated gloves. This pair is waterproof, sleek, and still allows you to use the touchscreen feature on your phone.
As a special gift to your future self, hand and foot warmers are a real treat! Simply shake these to activate, and they stay warm for up to 10 hours. I put them in my gloves, boots, or pockets of a jacket to hold onto while sightseeing in town on a chilly night. It’s like a cozy toaster. You won’t want to visit cold places without them.
Contrarily, if you plan to visit Amsterdam in the summer, you’d be surprised at how hot it can get in the middle of the day. When walking around all afternoon in the sun you’re going to be looking for ways to cool off. In addition to sitting down at a quaint cafe and drinking something cold, a cooling towel will be super helpful. It remains 20-30 degrees cooler than the air temperature and is chemical-free. It is a real lifesaver if you’re on the go or on a group tour when you quickly want to cool off and keep exploring.
Amsterdam has a slow and patient vibe. Everyone is riding their bikes around, snacking on fresh food, drinking a Dutch pint, and enjoying the beautiful canal lifestyle. Bring a waterproof pocket blanket to spread out on a beautiful day at the park. You can people-watch, enjoy a picnic, or use this for shows like concerts, parades, and festivals.
Sometimes when you have been traveling all day or out and about, you end up feeling sticky, stinky, and greasy. These deodorant wipes are the perfect solution, giving you an easy way to clean up rather than spraying water on your pits in a public bathroom (hey… been there!) These individually packed wipes smell delightful, are effective, gentle on skin, and don’t leave a nasty residue.
There will be plenty of opportunities to go out for a nicer evening here, and you’ll need at least one effortlessly fabulous outfit for the occasion. Look no further! This outfit is flattering, stylish, and very easy for anyone to pull off, regardless of size and style.
Don’t force yourself to resist the impeccable shopping scene of Amsterdam. You’ll want to collect the chic clothes, clogs, stoopwafels, Dutch chocolate, Jenever (Dutch gin), and more. Bring along these packing cushions for your bottled goods like oils, perfumes, and liquids. All of it can be placed in this “just in case” bag that counts as your personal item on the flight home – no carry-on fees? Yes, please!
Cotton is a great fabric to wear in almost any destination, and Amsterdam is no exception. Bringing a cotton shawl gives you a comfortable, soft, and lightweight way to add a layer whenever you feel a little too cold. You can use this as a modesty wrap for sacred sites, churches, or locations that require covered arms.
Paris, London, and Luxemburg are only four hours away from Amsterdam, and Brussels is only two hours away! These travel sheets are perfect for long train rides across the country or leisurely bus rides to the flower fields of Lisse. Even for hotels or hostels if your sheets aren’t up to par, these lightweight blankets will give you that necessary layer of cleanliness between you and random public surfaces.
Amsterdam is home to a unique history, intriguing architecture, easy intra-city transport, and super friendly people. In this big Dutch city, locals dress stylishly, but practically. Rains can be expected year-round, and fashions do double duty, offering both function and style.
You’ll find that there are many ways to get around town but that bicycles and walking are some of the most common, so keep those activities in mind when planning your attire for your trip!
Women in a big Dutch city like Amsterdam dress chicly, but practically. A pair of casual jeans and boots or sneakers, or a dress with a light jacket, are good outfit options for a day of exploring the city. Plan to dress in layers since the weather in the Netherlands can be unpredictable. Go for well-fitting jeans, dark boots or sneakers, plain tops, simple dresses, and versatile outerwear. A cozy scarf is a good addition to your outfit if it’s chilly outside. People tend to keep it more casual at nighttime than you might find in other European cities – jeans and boots are great for a night out. And always bring a rain jacket!
The dress code in Amsterdam for men tends to be a bit more polished compared to the dress code in the US. Men wear more tightly fitted clothing, which is typical of men’s European fashion. Plan on packing a few pairs of gray, brown, black or khaki slacks, a few nice button-down shirts, cotton v-necks, rain gear, comfortable sneakers, and a pair of dress shoes. A beanie, scarf, and a heavy jacket are good for the winter months.
Seasons in Amsterdam are typically European, though this Dutch city has a way of making every season magical. The shoulder-seasons of Spring and Fall are perfect – great weather, smaller crowds, and lower prices than the high-season mean you’ll get to experience this place at its best. Summer is high-season for tourism for a reason; mild and comfortable weather combine with gorgeous scenery to delight the many people who flood to this canal-laced capital. Even winter, with its gorgeous snow and lights, is a wonder to behold.
Believe it or not, this is the time of year with the least rain, albeit only by a day or two fewer wet days per month. It will still rain while you’re there, though, so don’t plan for completely dry weather! Spring is a great time to visit if you’re looking for smaller crowds and great sights – the city is thawing and some greenery is starting to come up by the end of the season.
Every traveler to Amsterdam must bring rain gear; a stylish, packable raincoat and a nice travel umbrella are crucial.
Attractive but comfortable shoes are also key. Sandals aren’t ideal, so opt for cute, comfortable flats and nice closed-toed shoes. If you wear skirts, keep them fairly modest and wear tights with them. Otherwise, cute blouses, cardigans, pants, and a light jacket will be ideal. Temperatures average between 50°F to 60°F (10°C to 16°C).
The summer is tourist high-season, so if you’re traveling during this time plan, to be extra patient with lines and heightened prices. Open-air concerts, gorgeous markets full of fresh items for sale, and smiling faces permeate the city, where you’ll always find something to do and to explore. With the plethora of activities in mind, you’ll want reliable footwear and to dress in layers. The weather is warmer, but this is no tropical city – there are breezes, and it can get cool at night.
Comfortable flats, short, classy wedges, and the occasional dress sandal are appropriate, but consider how comfortable they’ll be for the activity you’re doing. Nicer shoes are great for going out, while flats are better for sightseeing. Dresses are great if they’re on the modest side, but avoid shorts. Crop pants, lightweight dress pants, and skirts are best. Skinny jeans are great, too, as long as they look nice. Bring a cardigan and a light scarf just in case. Mosquitoes might be an issue at times (the entire city is webbed with canals, after all), so plan accordingly with insect-repellent spray. Summer can be quite rainy, too, so don’t forget your stylish raincoat and travel umbrella. Temperatures average between 65°F to 75°F (18°C to 24°C).
Fall brings a cooler set of temperatures, with later months being the chilliest, but the weather is still splendid. This second shoulder-season is another great opportunity to enjoy the Netherlands without so many tourists and crowds.
Break out your pretty sweaters and nice pants for fall in Amsterdam. Keep to a clean and neutral color palette, and always dress in layers that can be easily removed or added as the temperature rises and falls with the sun.
Comfortable flats and closed-toed shoes are best. Boots, too, are a cute option should you be so inclined. Skinny jeans, cardigans, tailored blazers, and pretty scarves will help you feel comfortable and stylish. As always, bring your nice raincoat and travel umbrella! Temperatures average between 50°F to 65°F (10°C to 18°C).
Winter is beautiful here. Snows do happen with fair frequency, but they don’t often stick around for long, and it doesn’t get too terribly cold. Nighttime brings the coolest temperatures, of course, so always dress more warmly for evenings out.
A cute coat, a few stylish sweaters, and some comfortable but attractive pants are your go-tos here. It still rains, so if you can opt for a jacket that is both warm and waterproof, so much the better. Bring a scarf, a nice winter hat, and some fashionable gloves to ward off the chills. Temperatures average between 40°F to 50°F (4°C to 10°C).
Cycling through the city – Amsterdam is best explored by bike, and you can find spots to rent bikes all around the city, and probably at your hostel or hotel. Flexible and comfortable casual clothing will suit you well for this, as well as tennis shoes or sturdy boots. Make sure to bring a hat and gloves if it is chilly.
Dancing the night away – Amsterdam has a Night Mayor (seriously). This means that the city’s nightlife has never been better – and by nightlife, I mean 24-hour parties. Bring a few cute dresses with tights, or skinny jeans and a sleek shirt to wear to the local dance clubs. No need for heels – just wear some nice shoes that you’ll be comfy dancing in.
Remember to leave space so that you can bring home some souvenirs. It’s also worth noting that fees for overly-heavy baggage are hefty and should be avoided.
No need to lug around a heavy computer on your vacation unless you are a digital nomad and have to work. If you need to work or stay connected, upload your documents to Google Docs and just use your phone.
Amsterdam is a relatively laid-back city. Don’t become a target for pickpockets – leave the jewelry at home unless you have a really special occasion planned!
Books will quickly weigh down your suitcase or backpack. You’ll thank yourself later for downloading Texture (for magazines) or investing in a Kindle (for books, guidebooks, etc).
If you’re flying, make sure to check out the TSA requirements and find out what not to bring on board. Some items are obvious, but others may surprise you!
Yes, sometimes you’ll want to wear a heel to dress up, but keep it short and chunky if possible. Narrow heels can easily cause injury on the uneven and cobblestone streets in parts of Amsterdam.
Amsterdam is the capital city of the Netherlands and is located in the Southeastern part of the province of North Holland.
The Netherlands is also known as Holland and is located in Northern Europe along the North Sea. Amsterdam I only 30 miles away from the beach!
Dutch is the official language. Don’t worry though, many locals speak English, and are more than happy to help! You’ll find the locals incredibly friendly and welcoming. You can bring a Dutch pocket dictionary if you’re concerned about ease of communicating or reading signs.
It can sometimes get quite cold in the winter, and there is the potential for rain at all times of the year. Spring is mild and a very nice time to visit. Summers are pleasant and can be very sunny! High-season for tourism is summer, and low-season is winter, though don’t discount winter if you can tolerate the cold. There are some gorgeous lights and sights to be seen! Fall and Spring are the nicest times if you’d like to avoid crowds.
If you forget something, remember that Amsterdam is a major city and has everything you might need locally. Some items may be more expensive than you’re used to paying, but you may also find that certain things are more affordable than back home!
As you might expect, local eats feature a lot of fish. Herring and onion or “Hollandse Nieuwe”, pictured here, is a quick meal that can be found almost everywhere.
Other food delicacies include:
You’ll need your passport, a student visa (if necessary and applicable), copies of health insurance cards, travel insurance information, state ID/drivers license, medical and vaccine history (just in case), and plane tickets. It’s also wise to keep photocopies of all of your documents stored safely with you in case an item gets lost or stolen.
The I Amsterdam activity and transportation card is one of those items you have to measure based on how much you intend to do while you’re there.
If you’ll be visiting a lot of museums and transporting around a lot, it can save you quite a bit of money! If not, it’s probably not worth it.
Honestly, yes. It is an incredibly moving, inspirational, and powerful experience. It can also be quite emotional – many people plan only the Anne Frank House without other attractions to visit that day, and then go seek entertainment about town to process and cheer them up.
Hands-down, it (and the long line you often have to wait in) are worth it. Keep in mind that handicap access can be limited – there are a lot of steep staircases and narrow passages – so check their website for recommendations if this affects you.
You’ll want to plan your Netherlands trip for mid-April for the best tulip bloom viewing. The blooms have just reached full size and are starting to open, which is the best way to see their colors and shapes.
If you get the chance, try to take a walk or a bike ride near some tulip fields, or arrange a tour. The massive and vibrantly-colored fields are certainly something to behold!
Not unless you want to give extra. You’ll find that tipping etiquette in Amsterdam and the Netherlands is much like that of the rest of Europe. Gratuity may be added to your bill already, or if it isn’t (as is often the case with smaller bills like in cafes) it’s really not expected. You may choose to leave your change or a small tip on the table for your server, and it’s always appreciated when you do!
