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17 Top Prague Packing List Items for 2023 + What to Wear & NOT to Bring

Updated on March 06, 2023

Prague, the beautiful capital of the Czech Republic, has seen some of the most fascinating developments of the medieval period, has survived two world wars, and is home to a unique hipster culture. Situated in Central Europe, the region of Bohemia is synonymous with ‘cool’. Prague’s history dates back to the 13th century and permeates the architecture, food, and art of this fascinating city.

With so much to explore, it’s no wonder Prague is a top European destination. But before you book your tickets, take a look at this handy ‘Czech’ list of what to pack, as well as what to wear in Prague, what NOT to bring, and other FAQs.

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What to Pack for Prague – 17 Essentials

1. Neck Wallet
As Prague is a bustling city and you’ll likely want to visit some of the more touristy locations, be sure to bring a discreet neck wallet to keep your important belongings safe and out of reach for pickpockets. This neck wallet is great because it’s large enough to hold your phone, passport, credit cards, and cash, and has separate compartments to keep you organized. Wear your neck wallet beneath your clothing for easy access and protection from theft.

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2. Activated Charcoal
Czech food is hearty, savory, and often paired with a heathy pour of beer. Battle the inevitable bloat, indigestion or food poisoning by bringing activated charcoal caps with you. With delicious soups, dumplings, fried meats, and strudels on every corner, it’s best to stay in good shape to keep on sampling Prague’s finest offerings.

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3. Packing cubes
Remain organized on your trip to Prague by using packing cubes. This color-coded set of packing cubes is perfect because it has space on the back to label what’s inside, making finding what you need easier than ever. Use these cubes to save space in your suitcase and save yourself a headache when you’re looking for that last clean pair of socks.

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4. Lipstick-Sized Portable Charger
If you’re wandering through the streets of Prague and your phone battery dies, you’ll be wishing you had a small, easily portable backup charger with you. This great, lipstick-sized portable charger has personally come in handy countless times, and I always make sure never to travel without it, especially when I’m relying on my smartphone for maps and a camera.

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5. Windproof Travel Umbrella
The weather can be a rather unpredictable in Prague. In fact, it is not uncommon for a sudden spout of rain to come pouring down in the middle of the day even in the warmer months. Stay dry by keeping a windproof, travel umbrella with you throughout the day. This one also comes with a lifetime replacement guarantee.

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6. Czech SIM card
Rather than purchasing an expensive international roaming plan for the duration of your trip, save money by purchasing a SIM card from Vodafone, Orange, or another European mobile service provider. With wifi available in most places around Prague, you won’t need much data to get in touch with your friends, call an Uber, or share photos of all the delicious street food via social media.

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7. Weatherproof Jacket
The weather in Prague can be temperamental in the spring and fall. You can expect anything from a warm breeze to bouts of rain and chilly temperatures. If you travel during either of these seasons, you will need a good jacket to keep you dry and protected from the elements. Prague is beautiful any time of year, but be prepared to face the weather, as you’ll spend much of your time outdoors exploring the city.

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8. Prague Power Adapter
The Czech Republic uses standard continental European voltage and outlets, so you’ll do well to bring a converter along with you to plug in your appliances without a problem. We recommend this international power adapter because it works in nearly every country and comes with a lifetime replacement guarantee!

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9. Comfortable Walking Shoes
If you want to take a step back in time, look no further than central Prague’s streets- most of which are cobblestoned. With that said, you will have a hard time navigating the old town in stilettos and flip-flops. Considering that most tourism around the old town is done on foot, you will need to pack a comfortable pair of shoes. Opt for some trendy and supportive white sneakers which are quite popular in Europe right now, and you’ll blend right in with Prague’s stylish crowd.

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10. Virtual Private Network (VPN)
Protect your passwords and personal information, such as your credit card number, by using a Virtual Private Network, or VPN. This one is affordable and reliable and will keep your network secure if you’re using the WiFi at a cafe, hotel, airport, or Airbnb, where you are more susceptible to hackers. A VPN is also useful if you plan to visit websites from home that may not typically be accessible abroad.

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11. Gorgeous Outfit
For nights out and higher-end restaurants, you’ll want to be sure to bring a stylish and hassle-free outfit. I love this jumpsuit because it looks great on a variety of body types, is slow to wrinkle, and is perfect for going from dinner to enjoying Prague’s happening nightlife.

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12. Camera
Beautiful red rooftops, stunning 360 views from medieval towers, and colorful plates of mouth-watering Czech food will entice you to take picture after picture. But if you hope to pepper your social media with #views and #brunchgoals hashtags, you better pack a good camera! Snap a shot of the Old Town Square or zoom in on the foam of your Pilsner Urquell and you’ll be saying #czechmeout in no time.

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13. Travel Insurance for Prague
As experienced travelers, we know that things don’t always go as planned. That’s why we always use TravelInsurance.com before every trip to make sure we are covered in case of an emergency. You can shop and compare policies from top companies to find one that best fits you and your travel plans. We look for plans that will take care of lost or stolen luggage, flight cancellations, and most importantly, any medical costs abroad should it be necessary.

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14. Jeans
A good pair of jeans is the most versatile item you can bring. On a chillier day, they’re comfortable and warm, and a more stylish pair can take you from day to night as you explore Prague’s vibrant nightlife. Wear them with sneakers when you explore the town in the morning, then pair your jeans with nicer shoes and a jacket to go out in the evening.

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15. Wool Sweater
Whatever the season, there is no question that layers are key in Prague! Protect yourself against the elements with a thin wool sweater that’ll fit perfectly under a jacket or over a T-shirt.

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16. Small Daypack
Prague is a highly walkable city, and you will spend much of your time waiting in line for museums, on the streets exploring the local food scene, and wandering around the beautiful countryside. Bring a small, lightweight daypack to carry water, snacks, and of course, any souvenirs you pick up along the way.

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17. Sunscreen
Stereotypes of Eastern Europe would have you believe Prague is as grey and cold as some of the traditional Soviet architecture of a bygone era. However, in summer Prague is as sunny and bright as the rest of Europe and you’ll want to make sure to bring sunscreen to protect yourself.

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Other packing list items for Prague

What to wear in Prague

With temperatures ranging from pleasant during the day to cooler at night, you’ll want to be ready to layer. Be sure to pack a mix of lightweight T-shirts, long sleeve shirts, and sweaters so you are ready to easily adapt to ever-changing weather. There is a good chance you’ll experience a bit of rain during your time in Prague, so don’t forget to bring a good windproof umbrella and a weatherproof jacket. The most popular time to visit Prague is during the summer, so if you plan to travel during one of the hotter months, be prepared with shorts, T-shirts and sun dresses to keep cool.

What should WOMEN wear in Prague? – (Click to expand)

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

Women’s fashion in the Czech Republic is generally fairly casual and sporty, adaptable to the season. However, in the Bohemian capital of Prague, you’re likely to encounter a more fashionable crowd.

Women tend to favor muted colors, but don’t be afraid to experiment with colorful accessories. The city’s many vintage, folkloric, and even contemporary boutiques are stocked with scarves in traditional Central European floral print and jewelry with colorful beads. Or make like many Czech women do, and pair a neutral outfit with bold lipstick.

If you’re hitting the town on a Friday night, be sure to dress smart. Sneakers and loose jeans will make you stand out as a tourist. In cooler weather, be sure to layer your dresses with an elegant sweater or jacket and tights. In the summer, sundresses and sandals are your best bet.

What should MEN wear in Prague ? – (Click to expand)

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

For men, a pair of fitted jeans with a blazer and nice shoes will ensure your entry into most of the trendier restaurants and clubs in Prague. With neutral colors welcomed for men and women alike, you will want to look smart when you head out for the evening in the city. In the winter, a casual outfit is easily dressed up with a nice jacket or scarf.

In the summer, a linen shirt or blazer goes a long way to keep you warm on a cool night while keeping you cool during the hot days.

The plaid and military print is among the punk and ‘tramp’ subcultures, as well. So if you’re looking for comfort and warmth, a hunter plaid or olive green tee shirt may help you blend in.

Packing for the Seasons in Prague

Prague does not experience the temperamental fluctuations you might find in other destinations, but it’s always good to be prepared. Summer is the peak season for tourism in Prague, so if you’re not a crowd-dweller, here’s a handy guide to every season for year-round visiting:

SPRING – March, April, May:

March is the coldest of the spring months with an average temperature around 48°F (9°C). Typically visitors begin to flock to Prague starting in April, which is a bit warmer. May is the most pleasant spring month, with an average temperature of about 57°F (14°C), and is the ideal time to visit, as it isn’t too hot or too crowded with tourists.

SUMMER – June, July, August:

July is one of the warmest months of the year with average temperatures between 63°F (17°C) and 72°F (22°C) during the day. At night, temperatures drop to about 55°F (13°C) to 57°F (14°C), so that light jacket you packed will definitely come in handy! Summer days are long too, offering about 16 hours of sunshine, with few clouds and sporadic rain showers. There are frequent rainy days in summer, about 50% of days seeing some precipitation.

FALL – September, October, November:

Fall in Prague is similar to spring in that you can expect moderate temperatures and a fair amount of sunshine. Still, as the days get shorter and shorter you will want to be prepared to layer. With relatively little sunlight, temperatures will feel cooler than normal – and the nights can get very cold indeed. However, it won’t be as rainy as it is during spring and summer.

WINTER – December, January, February:

Expect Prague winters to be mostly cold and gray. Average temperatures hover from 39°F (4°C) to 46°F (8°C) during the day, dropping below freezing at night. The grey weather and moderate humidity make the days cold, and frequent precipitation keeps some ice on the ground most mornings. If you plan to visit Prague in the winter, be sure to pack plenty of warm clothes for layering and a good winter coat!

How to dress for different activities in Prague – (Click to expand)

Nightlife – Prague’s nightlife scene is nothing short of exciting. If you plan to visit higher-end restaurants, bars, and nightclubs, make sure to dress smart and avoid particularly baggy or loose-fitting clothing. Men may not be allotted entry into trendier places with shorts or sneakers, so be sure to dress accordingly!

Exploring the City – The Old Town Square, Wenceslas Square, and Charles Bridge are just some of the amazing things to explore in Prague. Climb to the top of one of the city’s towers to see a stunning view of the Gothic cathedral against a backdrop of colorful buildings and red rooftops. Exploring the city center, you will find Soviet-style ‘milk bars’, greasy spoons serving food from the bygone communist era; alternative and funky cafes; an interactive Franz Kafka museum; and plenty of hearty food. Cross the Charles Bridge to get a view of the newer part of the city, or climb a steep hill to visit the Prague Castle. Be sure to dress for the season, and stick with muted colors to fit in with the locals.

Off the Beaten Path – Feeling adventurous? Head just outside of town to Sedlec, where you can visit the Ossuary – a medieval church decorated with the skulls and bones of over 40,000 people. There’s no dress code per se, though dressing conservatively is always recommended when visiting a holy site.

Hiking – In Prague, nature lovers need not fret. The forested hills and the Vlatava River offer plenty of opportunities to grab a beer outside or take a hike in the woods. Be sure to dress for the season and remember, layering is key!

What NOT to bring to Prague

1.DON’T PACK euros
The Czech Republic has not adopted the Euro as its currency. While you can certainly exchange nearly any currency for the Czech Korona, you’ll have a hard time paying with euros for any goods or services.
2.DON’T BRING stiletto heels
Prague’s city center is known for cobblestone streets, and the route to the historic Prague Castle is a trek up a very steep hill. You’ll want to stick to comfortable footwear at all times for this trip. Limit your suitcase to sneakers, flats, and shoes with a sturdy sole and heel.
3.DON’T TAKE mini skirts and loud prints
Unless it’s peak summertime, you may find Prague to be too cold for bold summer wear. Stick with pieces you can easily layer during any season of the year, and natural colors to blend in with stylish Czech locals.
4.DON’T PACK a bathing suit
The Czech Republic is a landlocked country. Unless you are planning a trip to a lake or spending time at a hotel pool, you’ll want to leave your bathing suit at home.
5.DON’T BRING a map
Prague’s city center is fairly small and well signed. You can get around most places on foot, so save space in your daypack by skipping the map. If you really want to find the most efficient route around, download a city navigation app or guide — like TripAdvisor or Lonely Planet.
6.DON’T TAKE a hairdryer
You’ll have a hard time converting the voltage of your blowdryer to continental European plugs – even with an electric converter. Most hotels and hostels will offer a complimentary blow dryer during your stay, so make sure to call the front desk and ask for a hairdryer to be sent up to your room.
7.DON’T PACK anything not on your packing list
Leave a little room to purchase some unique souvenirs in Prague. Things like cosmetics and accessories can easily be found in Prague’s supermarkets and tourist kiosks. What’s more, with cute Bohemian-style boutiques and jewelry shops scattered across the city, you’ll want to fill up your suitcase with fun accessories and souvenirs to bring back home with you instead.

What clothing should I NOT wear in Prague? – (Click to expand)

For a night out, avoid wearing sneakers unless you’re sure you’re going somewhere particularly casual, or you may be turned away at the door. Dress in dark or neutral colors and avoid flashy clothing or accessories that make you stand out as a tourist. Don’t pack items that can only be worn once, as you’ll get more use out of versatile pieces which will also optimize the space in your suitcase. Try not to overpack, as Prague is full of charming boutiques and shops and you’ll want to leave room in your suitcase to bring back treasures you find along the way.

FAQs about traveling in Prague

1. Do they speak English in Prague?
Though the official language of the Czech Republic is Czech, most people in Prague will speak at least some level of English. If you head out to the countryside you may experience fewer people with a knowledge of English, but if you stick to the city you’ll be in good shape.
2. What type of food do they eat in Prague?
As in much of Eastern Europe, Prague is known for its heavy, hearty cuisine, including rich potato soups and stews, dumplings, meats, and cheeses. Perhaps the most iconic delicacy to taste in Prague is the traditional Trdelník, a warm, sweet pastry coated with sugar or cinnamon, which you will see locals and tourists enjoying throughout the city. And of course, don’t forget to sample the beer in Prague, which is infamous in this part of Europe.
3. Is the tap water safe to drink in Prague?
Yes, it is safe to drink tap water in Prague and other large cities throughout the Czech Republic. However, be wary of drinking from the tap in more rural areas of the country; in these places, it is better to opt for bottled water.
4. What currency is used in Prague?
The Czech Republic has famously stayed away from using the Euro, though it is part of the European Union. The best way to prepare is to convert your local currency to Czech Crowns (CZK) before you arrive in Prague, so you can find the best exchange rate available. You’ll find you can use your credit card in many places in Prague, but in smaller shops, restaurants, and local markets, cash is king – so come prepared.
5. Is Prague safe?
Prague is considered to be a relatively safe city. As is the case when traveling anywhere, it’s best to be vigilant of your surroundings and take caution when walking around after dark. You aren’t likely to experience much crime while in Prague, but do beware of pickpockets, particularly in highly touristic areas such as Wenceslas Square.
6. Do I need to tip in restaurants in Prague?
Tipping around 10-15% is typically expected at restaurants in Prague. However, before you tip, be sure to check if a service charge was added to your bill, in which case you do not need to leave a tip. It is unnecessary to tip taxi drivers in Prague, though it is customary to round up to the nearest 10.
7. What’s the best way to get around Prague?
Prague is incredibly walkable, and walking is surely the cheapest and most scenic way to see the city. There is also a comprehensive bus, tram, and metro network for which one ticket is valid for all. Taxis are also available throughout the city, though this is the more expensive option.

What to Pack for Prague – 17 Essentials

1. Neck Wallet

2. Activated Charcoal

3. Packing cubes

4. Lipstick-Sized Portable Charger

5. Windproof Travel Umbrella

6. Czech SIM card

7. Weatherproof Jacket

8. Prague Power Adapter

9. Comfortable Walking Shoes

10. Virtual Private Network (VPN)

11. Gorgeous Outfit

12. Camera

13. Travel Insurance for Prague

14. Jeans

15. Wool Sweater

16. Small Daypack

17. Sunscreen

Other packing list items for Prague

What to wear in Prague

Packing for the Seasons in Prague

SPRING – March, April, May:

SUMMER – June, July, August:

FALL – September, October, November:

WINTER – December, January, February:

What NOT to bring to Prague

1.DON’T PACK euros

2.DON’T BRING stiletto heels

3.DON’T TAKE mini skirts and loud prints

4.DON’T PACK a bathing suit

5.DON’T BRING a map

6.DON’T TAKE a hairdryer

7.DON’T PACK anything not on your packing list

FAQs about traveling in Prague

1. Do they speak English in Prague?

2. What type of food do they eat in Prague?

3. Is the tap water safe to drink in Prague?

4. What currency is used in Prague?

5. Is Prague safe?

6. Do I need to tip in restaurants in Prague?

7. What’s the best way to get around Prague?