Packing Your Algarve Essentials

Ok, so we know that packing for a holiday can be a tedious and mundane task, but if you haven't packed the essentials then it will be you looking pretty mundane at the side of the pool when you forget your swimming costume and factor 50, amongst other must have items.

Now, it's time to get packing. From obvious important documents and necessities such as your flight booking, boarding pass, accommodation, car rental, passports - oh, and your children (if they are invited of course) - our comprehensive list of holiday essentials here in Portugal is for all our holiday-makers looking to jet off to Algarve terrain.
Get that suitcase open and be ready to make a note of the below items!

Travel insurance
First things first, one of the most important essentials is your Travel Insurance. We don't want to tempt fate, but it's always better to be safe than sorry. With a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), EU citizens are covered for hospital treatment for free, failure to get one and you could be facing an expensive headache when it comes to paying your medical bill. EHIC cards are free, so make sure you have one kept safely upon your person just in case.

Travel Money and/or Bank Cards
It's always worth preparing and budgeting your money wisely while holidaying in The Algarve. It isn't always possible to pay with a debit or credit card in Portugal and, if cards are accepted, often the machine will only accept Portuguese cards. Nonetheless, it may worth operating with cash during your stay, saving you from foreign bank charges, where to withdraw and worrying about where a cash machine is located etc. It is also worth ordering your travel-friendly bank card and euro currency before you jet off.

Identification
In Portugal, it's a legal requirement that you have ID on you at all times. For UK tourists this would be your passport or a clear photocopy of the document. 

Medicine 
Paracetamol and Ibuprofen are worth packing in your suitcase as they are much more expensive here in Portugal than at home. If you expect to need painkillers or travel sickness tablets, it's a good idea to stock up before you get here.  

Mosquito Repellent 
Is there anything more annoying than Mosquitoes? When a small itch turns into a big itch, you will wish that you had layered yourself in mosquito repellent. While a mosquito bite is not deadly in this country, it's always nice if they are not having their own little feast on your body...

Sunglasses, Hat and Sunscreen
While we all love getting away and lapping up the warm weather, the sun's temperature can be cruel mistress if you are not careful. Protecting yourself against the rays with regular water intake, sunscreen and a sun hat can go a long way to ensuring you enjoy the entirety of your holiday without becoming sunburnt or suffering from sunstroke. In addition, you will also require your sunglasses as the sun really does brighten up every area of Algarve territory.

Swimming Costume
As mentioned earlier, it will be a grave error if you fail to pack your summer swimming costume. Whether it's a bikini or swim shorts you like to wear this type of clothing will get the most use down by the beach or in your private pool! 

Suitable Footwear
So, how many pairs of shoes are you taking? Ladies, we are looking at you! But then again, the same applies to male population too! A good pair of comfortable shoes is essential if you are keen explorer - nobody is a fan of blisters! From steep, cobbled streets to flatter ground, you will want to protect your feet as best you can. Alternatively, if you wish to bask in the sun and move as little as possible beside the pool or down the beach, you won't want to forget your trusty flip-flops/sandals, as well as your trainers if you would like to participate in sporting activities that are going on throughout the Algarve.

Suitable Clothing
As the sun sets you may want to head out to experience the cuisine on offer in the local restaurants here in The Algarve, but before you hop, skip and jump all the way down the road, you won't want to forget a layer of clothing to keep you warm. The temperature in Portugal can drop quite a bit in the evenings and become a little chilly. Evening will be required, especially at more higher class eating establishments that do not allow swimwear etc. 

A Day Bag
No matter what you get up to in The Algarve, a day bag is an essential that will come in handy. Your bag can contain that all important water bottle to any potential souvenirs that have caught your eye 

Travel Adapter
Charging your mobile phone, laptop or other electronics will need to be plugged in using a travel adapter upon arrival from UK/Europe. Portugal uses the two pin plug which is extremely common across europe. This is a great investment, especially if you travel or venture on holiday abroad regularly.

Reading Material
A good book has the ability to open up your mind, and where better to relax and unwind in The Algarve? Lounging by the pool or on the beach away from the stress and strains of home life can always be complemented with a good book - pack your latest celebrity biography for peace and tranquility in the sun!

Do you have anything else you would like to add to your essential packing list? Let us know in the comments!

The above Algarvian essentials ensure that you are a step closer to making your dream summer holiday destination become reality. 

In the meantime, browse our website for our carefully selected luxury villa rentals within Quinta Do Lago, Vale Do Lobo and Vilamoura and let us do the work by sending you the perfect recommendation.