Six travel gifts for an unforgettable and stress-free Greek summer holiday!
Six useful items to buy before you visit Greece
Planning your trip to Greece is an exciting adventure! To truly enjoy every moment, it’s important to bring along a few items that will make your journey seamless and stress-free.
Whether you are wandering through historic sites in Athens, unwinding on idyllic islands like Santorini, or spending a few hours on any of Greece’s amazing beaches, being well-prepared ensures comfort and peace of mind.
I’m Vanessa from Athens, and having travelled a lot around Greece, I’ve found that certain items are indispensable. So I’ve put together a list of six items to buy before going on your Greek vacation! Hint – they can also be useful travel gifts!
1. Comfortable Walking Shoes
Comfortable walking shoes are the number one item to buy for your Greek vacation, to make the most of your trip without discomfort or sore feet. From the cobblestone streets of Athens to the scenic trails of the Greek islands, Greece is a country that you’ll love exploring on foot.
Choose shoes that are lightweight, breathable, and well-suited for steps and uneven terrains, of which Greece has plenty. Sneakers or hiking sandals with good arch support are ideal options. Just make sure you’ve worn them a few times before your trip to Greece.
All in all, the right footwear will ensure every step of your Greek adventure is enjoyable. I’ve been using Teva Verra sandals for years and I’m a huge fan – have a look!
2. Water bottle carrier
Summers in Greece are famously hot, with temperatures often soaring above 30-35°C (86-95°F), especially in July and August. Staying hydrated is essential to keep your energy up while sightseeing, hiking, or lounging on sun-soaked beaches.
Whatever you are doing, please make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay refreshed and avoid dehydration. Consider also having an electrolyte drink now and then – and, well, avoid drinking too much alcohol, as it can dehydrate you.
I swear by a simple insulated water bottle carrier, that keeps water cooler for longer. You can either use it to carry your own reusable water bottle, if you have one, or bottled water, which is widely available in Greece.
3. Wide-brimmed hat
A wide-brimmed hat is an absolute must-buy item for Greece, where the summer sun can be intense and unforgiving. It provides essential shade for your face, neck, ears and shoulders, reducing the risk of sunburn and heat exhaustion, which is more common that you might think.
My favourite hats are lightweight, breathable and foldable, suitable for all-day wear. Have a look at this one, which also provides UV protection, has an adjustable chin strap, useful on windy days, and also adds a stylish touch to your outfit.
4. Travel money belt
Although Greece is an overall safe country, unfortunately tourists can sometimes be targeted – and having your valuables taken from you is not a fun experience while on vacation.
A travel money belt is a practical and secure accessory for your Greek adventure, especially when exploring bustling areas like Athens or navigating crowded ferry terminals. Designed to keep your valuables safe and close, a money belt discreetly holds essentials like cash, credit cards, and your passport beneath your clothing.
Many of those money belts come with RFID-blocking technology, protecting your information from electronic theft. Their slim, lightweight design ensures comfort, while remaining nearly invisible to pickpockets, even under the lightest summer clothes.
5. Quick-drying towel
A quick-drying towel is a versatile essential for any trip to Greece. Lightweight, compact, and incredibly absorbent, it’s perfect for the diverse activities the country offers.
This type of towel is made out of synthetic materials, and dries much faster than traditional towels. It’s perfect for beach days, boat trips, or hiking adventures, and is lightweight and compact, saving valuable space in your bag.
Most quick-drying towels are also sand-resistant, making them ideal for Greece’s picturesque sandy beaches.
6. Power Bank
A portable power bank is an essential item to buy for your Greek vacation, ensuring your devices stay charged while you’re on the go. Whether you’re navigating a new island with GPS, capturing photos of beautiful landscapes, or staying connected with friends and family, a portable charger will ensure you’re never without power.
Choose a compact, high-capacity power bank to keep your phone, tablet, or camera charged during long days of sightseeing or exploring, without the need for constant access to outlets. I recommend at least a 10,000 mAh power bank, or bigger if you have more than one items to charge during the day.
Greek island essentials: 6 items for every traveller
So, these were six items that you can buy when you are preparing for your summer vacation in Greece, which also double as useful travel gifts. My overall advice is to pack smart, travel light, and embrace all the incredible experiences your trip has to offer!
Have a look at these other guides:
- What to pack for your trip to Greece
- Why Tevas are the best sandals for Greece
- How to avoid pickpockets in Athens
- How to keep cool in the summer in Athens
- Can you drink tap water in Greece?
- How to avoid mosquitoes in Greece
- Driving in Greece
Hi! I’m Vanessa from Athens and I love travelling around Greece and the Greek islands. Follow me on my social media:
- Facebook page and very active Facebook group
- Amazon
Hello Vanessa!
My name is Evelyn and I am from NYC. I travel to Greece often because I have family in Athens and Mytilene. I also study Greek and Roman history philosophy. Can you suggest a tour that focuses primarily on the ancient Greek philosophers in Athens and nearby cities? I plan to stay at least 4 months in Greece the next time I come. Euxaristo!!
Hi Evelyn – I’ll send you an email!