what to pack for Belgium

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

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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, as well as a list of what NOT to bring, and answers to FAQs about Belgium!

Table of contents
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What to Pack for Belgium – 18 Essentials

  • 1. Windproof Travel Umbrella

    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.

    View on Amazon.com

  • 2. Lipstick-Sized Portable Charger

    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.

    View on Amazon.com

  • 3. Virtual Private Network (VPN)

    how a vpn works

    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 wifi at restaurants, hotels, or airports, your private information is unprotected. Having a VPN allows you to use these public networks without fear of having your information stolen.

    View NordVPN.com Options

  • 4. Cooling Towels

    Cooling Towels

    Summer in Europe can get hot, and Belgium is no exception. Having a cooling towel handy can be a real life-saver 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.

    View on Amazon.com

  • 5. LifeStraw Water Bottle

    Water Filter Bottle

    A lifestraw water bottle is particularly great for traveling because it filters out harmful viruses and bacteria. This means that even if you aren’t familiar with the drinking water standards of a country you visit, you can be confident that the water you drink through a LifeStraw bottle is filtered and safe.

    View on Amazon.com

  • 6. Packing Cubes

    cube

    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.

    View on Amazon.com

  • 7. Travel Insurance for Belgium

    travelinsurance.com

    Travel insurance gives you peace of mind even when you’re far away from home. You can be covered in the case of an accident during your trip or if something valuable gets lost or stolen. Having travel insurance makes a trip a lot more worry-free so that you can focus on having a good time.

    Compare policies at TravelInsurance.com

  • 8. Universal Power Adapter

    Power Adaptor

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

    View on Amazon.com

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

    saily

    Instead of spending a ton of time and money on physical SIM cards, join the 21st century with a digital eSIM. This virtual service allows you to hop networks as swiftly as you 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), and it’s less vulnerable to hackers. Affordable, convenient, and way easier than dealing with international roaming rates or physical SIMs that require manual activation? – yes, please!

    Use our link for a 5% off gift on your next trip (code: ASHER5).

    Pick a data plan at Saily.com

  • 10. Weatherproof Jacket

    Columbia Watertight Front Zip Hooded 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.

    View on Amazon.com

  • 11. Neck Wallet

    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.

    View on Amazon.com

  • 12. Hanging Toiletry Bag

    Hanging Toiletry Bag

    Another great way to help keep your luggage organized is using a spacious toiletry bag. You’ll be able to fit all of your toiletry products together in one bag and keep everything organized in separate zippered compartments. Getting one that also can hang while open like this one is even better.

    View on Amazon.com

  • 13. Daypack

    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.

    View on Amazon.com

  • 14. Immunity Electrolyte Tablets

    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.

    View on Amazon.com

  • 15. Dry Skin Healing Ointment

    Dry Skin Healing Ointment

    Travel can really dry your skin out. It can be extremely irritating to have uncomfortable dry skin which often happens after air travel. This balm instantly soothes my chapped lips or any other dry spots on my skin and helps it heal faster.

    View on Amazon.com

  • 16. Body Wipes

    Body 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 body wipes can help you feel a whole lot cleaner. They’re really handy in case of any spills and messes too!

    View on Amazon.com

  • 17. Anti Blister Balm

    Anti Blister Balm

    You’ll probably be walking much more than you’re used to when visiting Belgium. There is so much to see so you don’t want blisters or uncomfortable shoes to slow you down. A great solution to prevent painful blisters is to use an anti-blister balm. Apply it to your feet before a long walk and it will help reduce any painful friction.

    View on Amazon.com

  • 18. Hand Sanitizer

    Baby Bum Hand Sanitizer

    It’s important to stay germ-free even after being in public places like the airport or taxis. Not much is worse than getting sick on vacation. Hand sanitizer makes it easier to avoid unwanted germs. Sun Bum makes a great travel-size hand sanitizer that smells good and is also moisturizing.

    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).

Dress
Jacket
Scarf
Cardigan Sweater
Hat
Wedge Sandal
Evening Dress
Knit Sweater
Booties
Tank-Top
Long Skirt
Walking Shoes
Sunglasses
T-shirt
Women Jeans

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).

Khaki Pant
Sweater
Shorts
Sneaker
Button-Down Shirt
T-shirt
Walking shoes
Scarf
Fleece Jacket
Cap
Long Sleeve Henley Shirt
Active shorts
Sunglasses
Loafer
Coat

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

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

    Bringing high-power hair tools like hairdryers and straighteners to Europe can be a disaster due to the different amounts of current. 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?

    Summer and Fall are particularly beautiful. They 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.

  • 3. 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.

  • 4. 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.

  • 5. 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.

  • 6. 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.

  • 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.

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