What to pack for holidays in Javea

It really depends on what time of year you are visiting Javea…

If you are intending on a summer holiday in Javea, the temperature during the day could be as high as 40 degrees, so here are some suggestions:-

1. Swimwear!! You are definitely going to be in water at some stage, pool or sea – so take at least 2 changes.
2. Towels for the beach.  Most holiday companies and private renters, provide towels for indoor use, but not the pool or the beach.  If you forget to pack these, they are cheap to buy here.
3. Shoes – flip flops or sandals for the beach/pool and another casual pair, maybe trainers for during the day, and a couple of pairs of smarter shoes for the evening.  Perhaps a  low heel, (for ladies) as you tend to be partying for much longer when on holiday.
4. Casual clothes; For summer a couple of t-shirts or casual tops, and 2/3 pairs of shorts, or light skirts/trousers. Its way too hot to wear much more!  A sarong is a good stand by especially as at most restaurants during the day, you have to wear clothes when you eat   + Don’t forget your underwear!! Very important, even if you end up not wearing it!!!
5. Smart party clothes; if you can adapt your day clothes for the evening, (this is where the sarong has it uses) then great!! If not, take 2/3 changes of smart “going out” clothes for the evenings.  The best part of your holiday is finding the local pubs/bars/discos for a lively fun night out. The Spanish really dress up at night, so don’t let the side down, and girls, bring your sparkles!  Lots of sparkly jewellery looks great with a tan, and instantly transforms a daytime outfit into a night time one!.  Boys, buy some decent shorts!
6. Toiletries; Put these in plastic bags, even if inside your toiletry bag, otherwise you could find your clothes smell gorgeously of coconut shampoo or sun-cream.  The obvious necessities, toothpaste + brush, deodorant, shaving stuff (boys + girls!) cosmetics, shampoo, conditioner (very necessary in the sun), sun cream and after-sun.  It is probably better buy these when you arrive, as they tend to be cheaper in Spain and with the restrictions of carrying liquids on flights if they are in your hand luggage, you will probably loose them.
7. Toys;- For the children, don’t forget to pack a few small toys, colouring pencils and paper or packs of cards to play with, until you find a local shop to provide beach toys.
8. Extras:- Take a lightweight cardigan or jumper, just in case the weather cools after a storm!,  maybe some English tea Coffee? . But remember most things are available in European supermarkets, even Marmite.

At the end of the day, its up to you to decide how much or how little you take with you – and as most cheap airlines now charge you for taking hold baggage, more ane more people are trying to get away with just hand luggage, you will be £’s better off!  Don’t get caught out check the weight and dimensions of your bag.  Roll clothes instead of folding them and you won’t have to iron them when you arrive as well.

I have read hundreds of articles like this over the years, and still take way too much stuff with me, always coming home with things that never got out of the suitcase!!  “Take twice as much money and half the amount of clothes”.

Finally, get good holiday insurance, it’s cheap (Post office is good cover and value) and are you aware that the E1.11 emergency medical form is no longer acceptable abroad.

The Post Office has the application forms so apply early for the New NHS EUROPEAN HEALTH INSURANCE CARD. (Credit card size).  If you don’t have one and end up requiring treatment you will be charged.

Being hospitalised for Sun-stroke/burn, is still very common and totally and easily avoidable, so oil up or cover up. Beware of that nice cooling breeze especially on boat trips.

Happy packing, Happy holidays!, 

p.s. Don’t forget to pack your sense of humour.