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25 Top Belgium Packing List Items for 2025 + What to Wear & NOT to Bring

what to pack for Belgium
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Belgium may not be as popular of a destination as other European countries such as France, Spain, or Italy, but that doesn’t mean there isn’t plenty to explore. Between the delicious street food and the medieval towns, this eclectic country has so much to offer.

It can be tricky packing for a lesser-known country. You need to consider what the weather is like and how you’ll be spending your time there in order to pack everything you need and nothing you don’t. With that in mind, we’ve created a complete packing list of what to bring, what to wear as well as a list of what NOT to bring, and answers to FAQs about Belgium!

See our product selection criteria and guidelines here.

What to Pack for Belgium – 25 Essentials

  • 1. Windproof Travel Umbrella

    The weather can be unpredictable in Belgium so it’s best to travel prepared with some rain gear. I really love this travel umbrella because it’s compact but well-made, making it easy to pack and you know it’ll hold up against the wind and rain to keep you dry. It even comes with a nice carrying case so you can easily store it away when grey clouds pass over.

    travel umbrella

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 2. Universal Power Adapter

    If you’re traveling from North America, then you’ll need to bring a universal power adapter. Belgium uses outlets different from the US, so it’s super important to pack an adapter to charge your electronics. An adapter like this one is great because it’s compatible with the various types of adapters found around the world in 100+ countries, not just in Belgium.

    Power Adaptor

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 3. Lipstick-Sized Portable Charger

    Considering how much we rely on our phones, especially when traveling, it’s important to make sure your phone battery doesn’t die while you’re out exploring. A good safety net is always packing a portable charger. It’s small enough to pack just about anywhere and when fully charged it can charge a phone one or two. You can charge it again and again with the USB charger included.

    Lipstick-Sized Portable Charger

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 4. Virtual Private Network (VPN)

    Once you realize what a VPN can do for you, you’ll never want to be without it. A VPN (virtual private network) keeps your personal information, like passwords on your electronic devices, private from potential hackers. When you connect to public Wi-Fi at restaurants, hotels, or airports, your private information is vulnerable to creepy onlookers.

    Having a VPN allows you to use these public networks without fear of having your information stolen. You’ll also enjoy expanded access to the internet since regional censorship in Belgium might be a downer. It’s super affordable and we use it 24/7.

    Virtual Private Network (VPN)

    View NordVPN.com Options ➜

  • 5. Cooling Towels

    Summer in Europe can get hot, and Belgium is no exception. Having a cooling towel handy can be a real lifesaver after walking around under the sun all day. All you have to do is get the towel wet, wring it out, and drape it around your neck or wherever else you’d like to cool off. This frosty cloth is heaven-sent on a hot day and we never visit anywhere warm without it.

    Cooling Towels

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 6. Water Bottle with Filter

    While the water is quite clean in Europe, you’ll still want to fill up on-the-go. We bring this filtered water bottle everywhere to offer real peace of mind against harmful viruses and bacateria. Even if you aren’t familiar with the drinking water standards of a country you visit, you can be confident that you have control over your water supply and access to clean water.

    Water Bottle with Filter

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 7. Packing Cubes

    I don’t pack any suitcase without using packing cubes to organize everything. These come in different sizes so you can group your clothing and anything else you bring together in the appropriate size cube. They help keep everything in your suitcase organized and easy to find. They even come with two bags for dirty laundry. They even come with two bags for dirty laundry and you can purchase a 3-pack for shorter getaways.

    packing cubes

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 8. Jet Lag Relief

    Your flight to Belgium from the US can range from 7-20 hours depending on which region you’re coming from and how many layovers you have. Last time I flew to Europe, I forgot these natural jet lag relief supplements and I FELT the difference. Don’t make my mistake and leave these behind. They’re super gentle with chamomile and no stimulants like caffeine, but they help you to feel more rested on the way there and return journey.

    jet lag relief

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 9. Travel Insurance for Belgium

    Travel insurance is required for certain visitors, but even if it’s not mandatory for you, it should be treated as such. Your domestic provider will not cover you overseas and the last thing you want to deal with is paying out-of-pocket for massive expenses. Belgium is not cheap, and healthcare could cost a fortune (keep in mind that no one plans to get sick and anything can happen at any time).

    This is why we always travel with Faye. They are a 100% digital provider which already makes it one of the most modern services in the game. You can submit a claim through the app and receive reimbursements quickly for common travel issues like lost bags, flight delays, cancellations, rental issues, and medical costs. It’s usually less than 5% of your trip and will pay for itself if anything unexpected occurs.

    Travel Insurance for Belgium

    Get a quote in less than 60 seconds with Faye ➜

  • 10. Neck Wallet

    A neck wallet is a really good way to avoid losing anything valuable when you’re traveling. It’s too easy to misplace passports and credit cards when you’re going from one point to another. Having a neck wallet with several zippered pockets will help you keep your valuables organized and accounted for. And when you don’t need it, it discreetly slips under your shirt and out of sight.

    Neck Wallet

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 11. Rain Jacket

    The weather in Belgium can be unpredictable, especially when traveling outside of summer. One day it can be sunny and the next day gray and rainy. You’ll need a good jacket to keep you warm and protect you from the rain and wind in case you encounter a day or two of bad weather.

    Waterproof-Jacket

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 12. Hanging Toiletry Bag

    Another great way to help keep your luggage organized is using a spacious toiletry bag. If you’ve never heard of this, you’re in for a treat since all of your toiletry products fit together in one bag and keep everything organized in separate zippered compartments. It hangs at eye-level by hooking anywhere (a hook, handle, door, shower pole, towel rack, etc.).

    Bathrooms in Europe are TINY, and you don’t want to be juggling delicate products on the edge of the sink or sprawling products all over your hotel room. This elegant solution is our favorite and once you try it, you won’t go back.

    hanging toiletry bag

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 13. Activated Charcoal

    Unfortunately, food poisoning is common when traveling. As your body adapts to the new cuisine and water system, it can cause some stomach upset. More than this, Belgium has around 3K cases of food poisoning per year, so you’ll want a detoxification remedy on-hand. Activated charcoal is the perfect solution that will get harmful pathogens out of your body quickly. Time on vacation is precious and this will ensure you have a plan B if that shrimp couquette or mitraillette sandy doesn’t sit right.

    Activated Charcoal

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 14. TSA-Approved Luggage Locks

    Secure your belongings with these TSA-friendly luggage locks. They can be used for more than suitcases, including carry-on bags, backpacks in crowded areas prone to pickpocketing, city lockers, and more. But we mainly use them for our checked bags since this is where we’re personally experienced theft. Since TSA baggage checkers will have a universal key to unlock these, they’re the only ones who will be perusing your bag while it’s out-of-sight.

    TSA-Approved Luggage Locks

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 15. Discounted Tickets to Top Belgian Attractions

    There are so many new things to experience in Belgium. You’ll absolutely want to experience the Medieval town of Ghent and the capital city of Brussels. From Brussels, you can take a scenic daytrip to Luxembourg, or use the hop-on-hop-off bus to hit all the highlights. My main goal in visiting Belgium was to eat waffles and chocolate! And if you want to dive deeper into the history of Belgian chocolate, check out the Chocolate Museum.

    Get Your Guide is our preferred booking platform since it combines authentic local tours with a trustworthy intermediary. Cancelations are flexible and you can majorly enhance your travels with iconic attractions and experiences.

    Discounted Tickets to Top Belgian Attractions

    See all Belgium attractions at GetYourGuide.com ➜

  • 16. Daypack

    Having a day pack gives you enough space to bring everything that you need on your day trip. You’ll want a day pack that’s not too big but can still fit the essentials like a water bottle, camera, jacket, phone, and wallet. This one is lightweight and has plenty of compartments to organize your belongings.

    daypack

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 17. Shawl of Scarf

    Whether you’re visiting modest churches where you’ll need to cover your shoulders, or you just want to wrap up on a chilly evening, a lightweight shawl is a wonderful addition to your packing list. We find tons of uses for these, including wrapping delicate items in our suitcase for extra cushioning. It can get crisp in the autumn and spring in Belgium, so you’ll appreciate having light layers.

    Shawl

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 18. Deodorant Wipes

    Body wipes are a great way to freshen up whenever you’re on the go. Especially in places like trains and planes where you don’t have access to a shower, having refreshing deodorant wipes can help you feel a whole lot cleaner. With a natural scent, they help remove sweat and odor for those long travel days or city touring afternoons. They’re really handy in case of any spills and messes too!

    Deodorant Wipes

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 19. Belgium eSIM Data Service (Avoid Roaming Fees!)

    Instead of spending a ton of time and money on physical SIM cards, enter the 21st century with a digital eSIM. This virtual service allows you to hop networks as you swiftly move between new countries. You only pay for the amount of mobile data you need and your phone will work on Belgium’s best local networks!

    We love Saily because they’re actually cheaper than a physical SIM, less breakable (since it’s not a physical card), you have better coverage, and it’s less vulnerable to hackers.

    Use our link for a 5% off gift on your next trip with code (“ASHER5”, automatically applied at checkout).

    saily

    Pick a data plan at Saily.com ➜

  • 20. "Just in Case" Bag

    Shopping in Europe is not a matter of if, but when! You’ll be surrounded by gorgeous local goods that you’ll absolutely want to bring home with you – that’s where this “just in case” bag comes in. It’s the ideal size to count as your carry-on fee for the return flight home (no baggage fees, you’re welcome!) and you can stuff it with souvenirs or gifts like Belgian chocolate, antiques, lace, crystals, beers, biscuits, packages waffles, and more.

    Just in Case bag

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 21. Luggage Straps

    Don’t leave these out of your artillery. I actually had a friend whose luggage busted open mid-transit. When we got to the arrivals terminal to search for our bags, his came rolling towards us on the carousel, completely open and exposing what was inside. Luckily, I had these straps to finagle it back together for the next leg of our journey, and I haven’t traveled without them since.

    Luggage straps secure your bag to take the pressure off of your zippers and tighten cases shut. The bright straps make it easier to spot your bag in a crowd, and you can also use these for carry-ons so they fit more easily in the overhead compartment.

    Luggage Straps

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 22. Immunity Electrolyte Tablets

    It’s really easy to get dehydrated during travel. Adding electrolytes to your water ensures your body is getting everything it needs to stay hydrated and keep you feeling energized during your trip. For an added defense against germs, while traveling, these Nuun immunity electrolytes combine vitamin C and other immune-boosting ingredients with hydrating electrolytes to keep you healthy and hydrated during your trip.

    Immunity Electrolyte Tablets

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 23. Waterproof Shoe Bags

    No one likes city grime, mud, or dirt in their suitcase. With these cushy shoes, you’ll want a storage sack to transport them in. These waterproof shoe bags are the perfect solution since you can take your wet or mucky shoes and pack them next to clean items without worrying about any dirt transfer. They’re also great for in the winter when snow can leave your shoes damp, or a rainy day when you want to separate the moisture from dry items.

    Waterproof Shoe Bags

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 24. TSA-Approved Toiletry Bottles

    If you’ve ever experienced the pain of throwing away your favorite products at the security checkpoint, you know the importance of packing correctly the first time. Use these BPA-free travel bottles that are great for all toiletries like shampoos, moisturizers, and toners. Since their 3-layer lid is leakproof, you won’t have any suitcase explosions, and they’re so easy to clean and reuse

    TSA-Approved Toiletry Bottles

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 25. Comfortable Walking Shoes

    You’ll be doing more walking than usual in Europe, which is one of my favorite parts about it! Prepare for this by packing smart footwear like these comfortable flats. They’re super comfy and will take the pressure off as you stroll Brussels Park or the Gardens of the Mont Des Arts.

    Comfortable-walking-shoes-Lisbon

    View on Amazon.com ➜

What to Wear in Belgium

Belgium has all four seasons so you’ll want to pack warmer clothes if visiting in fall or winter and lighter clothes for spring and summer. Dressing in layers is key because the weather can change quickly.

No matter the season, you’ll want to pack a pair of pants and a jacket for cooler cloudy days that you can layer on top of warm weather clothes. Don’t forget that comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring cities on foot.

What Women Should Wear in Belgium? – (Click to expand)

Below is a sample women’s clothing list. (All items link to Amazon.com for your convenience).

There is not a conservative dressing culture for women in Belgium so feel free to wear whatever you’re most comfortable in. However, do take in mind that European women, in general, tend to dress up and don’t put on active wear to go out.

Skirts and dresses are great for the warmer months. For cooler days jeans and a sweater will keep you warm and cozy. Jackets and fleeces for layering are ideal year-round. You’ll likely be doing a good bit of walking so pack comfortable shoes. If you want to dress up for dinner then bring an elegant outfit or two for a nice evening out.

What Men Should Wear in Belgium? – (Click to expand)

Below is a sample men’s clothing list. (All items link to Amazon.com for your convenience).

European men are pretty fashionable. You won’t see them walking around in sports t-shirts and gym shorts. Their go-to attire includes a pair of tailored pants and a slim-cut shirt. You’ll see many men with stylish accessories like sunglasses, watches, and scarves.

Pants or shorts are appropriate for warmer months. Come wintertime you’ll want warmer clothes so be sure to bring long sleeve shirts, a warm jacket, and even a scarf and hat. Closed-toed shoes are standard year-round.

Packing for the Seasons in Belgium

WINTER – December, January, February

Winter is cold in Belgium. If you visit during these months then you will definitely need to pack warm clothes like sweaters, coats, scarves, boots, and hats. It can be rainy so make sure you bring a raincoat and/or an umbrella. During the day you can expect the highs to be around 40°F and at night temperatures drop to below freezing.

SPRING – March, April, May

Expect rainfall to continue into spring so be sure to pack your raingear. Temperatures start to warm up a bit but it’s still chilly. Dress in layers with warm clothing options since nights are usually much colder than daytime temperatures. Temperatures range between 50°F and 60°F during the day and around 40°F at night.

SUMMER – June, July, August

Summer is a beautiful time to visit Belgium. Expect mostly blue skies and warm weather. Still, bring along an umbrella or raincoat in case you get caught in a short summer rain shower. This is the time to wear shorts, dresses, and skirts. The days are warm and pleasant and temperatures rarely get above 75°F. You might want to bring warmer clothes for the evening as temperatures drop down to around 55°F at night..

FALL – September, October, November

You can expect a healthy dose of sunshine at the start of fall in Belgium. The leaves are changing colors, the sky is a clear blue, it’s a picturesque time to visit. Although it may be sunny the temperatures certainly start to drop. In September the average daytime temperature is 68 °F but come October and November the highs are between 48°F and 60°F during the day and 40°F- 50°F at night

How to dress for activities in Belgium? – (Click to expand)
Exploring the cities – When walking around one of Belgium’s many exciting cities do as the locals and dress casual yet chic. Depending on the time of year a dress or skirt may be all you need, but if it’s cooler than long pants and a coat will likely be necessary. Definitely wear comfortable shoes if you know you will be spending a lot of time exploring on foot. Don’t forget the accessories! Men and women could use sunglasses, hats, and scarves depending on the weather.

Nightlife – Europeans love to go out at night and it’s no different in Belgium. Pubs, restaurants, and swanky bars are in abundance across Belgium so better pack at least one nicer outfit for a fun night out. You can upgrade your daytime outfit by swapping tops and shoes for dressier alternatives. It would also be a good idea to dress a little warmer and bring a jacket because once the sun goes down it can get chilly!

Museum visits – There is no shortage of museums in Belgium. You’ll likely check out one or two so it’s good to know what to wear. Museums can be cold so dress in layers especially if it’s a hot summer day outside. You might need a sweater or a jacket inside the museum but once you’re back walking around outside you might want to be able to take it off if it’s hot. Comfortable walking shoes are also a must. You want to be able to enjoy the museum without getting distracted by how much your feet hurt. It’s also a good idea to bring as small of a bag or purse as possible. Most museums will make you check larger bags.

Parks and gardens – There is plenty of green space across Belgium, even in big cities. You may want to just go for a stroll through a park or even have a picnic and enjoy some pastries or a light lunch. You’ll want to bring a hat and sunglasses and a comfortable pair of shoes. If you plan to have a picnic in the grass then pants would probably be more comfortable than a skirt or dress.

What NOT to Bring to Belgium

  • 1.DON'T BRING Large Books

    With Kindles, smartphones, and tablets, there is really no need to bring bulky books on your travels. Save space in your luggage and download ebooks to your devices. It will be much easier to access them when you’re on the go without having heavy books weighing you down.

  • 2.DON'T PACK Hiking Boots

    Unless you plan on going out into the wilderness for some serious hiking,

  • 3.DON'T BRING Expensive or Irreplaceable Items

    If you can’t replace it or can’t bear to lose it then better not bring it. Unfortunately, things get lost or stolen when traveling. Better not risk losing anything valuable and just leave it at home.

  • 4.DON'T WEAR Uncomfortable Shoes

    Exploring a new country isn’t the time to wear uncomfortable shoes. You’re going to be doing a lot of walking so the more comfortable the shoe, the better.

  • 5.DON'T BRING US Dollars

    Belgium is on the Euro. They don’t accept US dollars so there’s really no need to bring any. Plus it’s safer to withdraw euros from the ATM than to bring a lot of US dollars to convert to Euros in Belgium.

  • 6.DON'T PACK a Hairdryer

    If you don’t use the proper power converter when plugging in your hairdryer it can destroy your hairdryer. Most hotels come equipped with one, so better leave yours at home.

What NOT to Wear in Belgium? – (Click to expand)

Belgium is not the place to wear short shorts or flip-flops. It’s never hot enough for that kind of beach weather and you’ll likely get cold. When it comes to footwear, the more comfortable the better, so leave behind high stiletto heels or anything you can’t comfortably walk around all afternoon in.

FAQs about traveling to Belgium

  • 1. Is tipping expected in Belgium?

    Tip is already included in the price of your bill so it is not expected that you leave any additional tip. However, it’s common to round to the nearest dollar when paying as an extra thank you to your server.

  • 2. What is the best time of year to visit Belgium?

    What is the best time of year to visit Belgium?

    Summer and Fall tend to be the warmest and sunniest months of the year. Keep in mind that summer can be more crowded because it is such a nice time of year to visit, and depending on the year, fall can be dreary and rainy.

    Winter is beautiful if you go around Christmas. Cities like Brussels will be adorned with lights and Christmas decorations. Spring can be nice as well, but like fall, it can be rainy and cold depending on the year.

  • 3. Do I need a visa to visit Belgium?

    If flying from the US or Canada you do not need to apply for a visa ahead of time. You will receive a temporary tourist visa that’s valid for up to 90 days upon your arrival in Belgium.

  • 4. What is an ideal amount of time to stay in Belgium?

    What is an ideal amount of time to stay in Belgium?

    One week in Belgium is a good amount of time to get a taste of what this country has to offer. You’ll have time to check out some of the top cities like Bruges, Antwerp, and Brussels and also visit the countryside to see the quaint side of Belgium.

    A week will give you time to visit different museums and try local food like Belgian waffles, chocolate, and beer!

  • 5. What currency do they use in Belgium?

    Belgium uses the Euro. If you have any other type of foreign currency in cash you can exchange it for Euros when arriving in Belgium.

  • 6. How do I get around Belgium?

    How do I get around Belgium?

    Rental cars, trains, and planes are all easy options for getting around Belgium. Once you’re in a city you can get around mostly by walking or taking taxis and public transport.

    To get from one city to the next, trains are probably the most hassle-free because you don’t have to deal with parking as you would with a rental car or mess with the airport like when flying.

  • 7. Do they speak English in Belgium?

    Belgium has three official languages: Dutch, French, and German. Though English might not be an official language, it’s commonly spoken throughout the country and you will be able to communicate in English to some extent in most cases.