Czech Republic Packing List: Real Traveler Tips and How to Prepare

Relying on Google Maps to find those hidden Prague alleys will drain your battery faster than you think. Keep a power bank handy so you’re never left without a charge.

Staying hydrated is key when you’re walking miles between castles and beer gardens. The good news is that tap water is perfectly safe to drink across the entire country.

Don’t underestimate the summer sun while you’re out exploring hilltop castles or wandering through the Lesser Town. A bit of sunscreen will save you from a nasty burn.

I like to keep a tiny kit with bandages and pain relievers in my daypack just in case. It’s much better to have it right there than to be hunting for a pharmacy when you have a blister from those cobblestones.

A dedicated wash pouch keeps your bathroom essentials organized and ensures that a leaky shampoo bottle won’t ruin your gear. I love the ones that hang up for easy access in smaller hotel bathrooms.

Prague is a vibrant city with a late-night culture, but that can mean some noise if your hotel is near a popular square. These are absolute lifesavers for ensuring you get a quiet night’s rest.

The weather in Central Europe can be unpredictable and a sudden shower is never out of the question. A compact, sturdy umbrella is much bit more reliable than those flimsy plastic ponchos.

Separating your laundry from your clean clothes is a simple way to stay organized, especially if you’re moving between different cities like Prague and Český Krumlov during your trip.

I honestly can’t travel without these anymore because they make organizing layers so easy. They’re perfect for dealing with those wide temperature swings between the windy outdoors and warm interiors.

You’ll want a bag that can handle being dragged across historic sidewalks and through busy airport terminals. We often prefer backpacks for Europe because of all the cobblestones, but a sturdy roller works if it has great wheels.

If you’re planning on bringing home some local beer or glass, you’ll want to keep an eye on your bag’s weight. A quick check with a scale before you head to the airport can save you from those annoying overweight fees.

A lightweight daypack is perfect for carrying your water, umbrella and snacks while you’re out exploring all day. You’ll want something comfortable that won’t weigh you down as you hit all the major sites.

I find a sling bag to be one of the most versatile things I pack because it works for city walks and keeps my most important things right across my chest where they’re easy to reach.

A dedicated dopp kit keeps your bathroom essentials organized and ensures that a leaky bottle won’t ruin your favorite travel clothes. It’s one of those small things that makes a big difference in staying organized.

For summer visits, you’ll want breathable fabrics that won’t stick to you in the heat. Cotton or lightweight merino wool blends are my favorites for staying comfortable while I’m out all day.

This is a basic summer essential that pairs with almost anything. It’s easy to layer under a light jacket or cardigan if you find yourself in a cool air-conditioned museum or cafe.

Shorts are perfectly fine for warm summer days, especially when you’re wandering through the parks. You might notice that locals often opt for lightweight pants, but your comfort is what matters most.

I find leggings to be one of the most versatile things I pack because they work for long train rides and can even double as an extra layer under your jeans if the temperature drops.

There’s nothing better than switching into cozy joggers after a long flight into Prague or a full day of hitting the museums. They’re my favorite travel day staple.

Linen is a fantastic fabric for staying cool while still looking a bit more put-together than a pair of shorts. They’re perfect for those warm evenings when you’re heading out for a nice dinner in the Old Town.

The temperature can drop quite a bit once the sun goes down, even in the middle of summer. A lightweight scarf is an easy way to stay warm and adds a nice touch to your evening outfit.

Prague has a wonderful culture of music and dining, and you’ll probably want at least one outfit that’s a bit more elevated. A simple dress is an easy way to go from a day of sightseeing to a classical concert or a nice dinner.

Bringing enough for a week and planning a laundry day is much better than overpacking and hauling a heavy bag across those cobblestones. It’s one of my favorite travel hacks for longer trips.

When you’re walking miles every day, choosing a comfortable and supportive bra is so important. You’ll want something that doesn’t pinch or chafe as you’re hitting all the major landmarks.

A good windbreaker or rain jacket is absolutely essential because Central European weather can be fickle. It’ll keep you dry during sudden showers and block those cool breezes.

The secret to surviving a cold trip is all about the base layers. Merino wool is my absolute top pick because it’s incredibly warm, moisture-wicking and stays fresh even after multiple wears.

A warm sweater is a crucial mid-layer for those months when the temperature drops. It’s perfect for layering under your coat to add that extra bit of insulation while you’re out exploring.

If you’re planning on hitting a nice restaurant or a fancy bar, a sharp blazer or cardigan is an easy way to elevate your look. It’s versatile enough to work for both daytime sightseeing and evening outings.

If you’re visiting in the height of winter, you’ll be so glad you have these. Wearing leggings under your jeans is a simple trick for staying warm when the temperature drops below freezing.

Jeans are a classic choice for cooler weather because they’re durable and offer decent warmth. They’re perfect for everyday wear as you wander through the city or head out to the countryside.

When that biting winter wind starts blowing, you’ll be so glad you have a warm scarf. It’s an essential for both staying cozy and adding a bit of style to your winter look.

Prague has an incredible dining and culture scene, and you’ll likely want at least one outfit that’s a bit more elevated. A simple dress is an easy way to go from a day of sightseeing to a nice dinner in the Old Town.

Take my advice here: you might sweat more than you think with all that walking. Bring enough to have a few changes available and consider planning a laundry day if you’re staying for a while.

When you’re layering for the cold, choosing a comfortable bra is so important. You’ll want something that doesn’t pinch or chafe under multiple layers as you’re out exploring all day.

If you’re planning any hikes in places like Bohemian Switzerland, proper hiking boots are a must. Make sure they’re already broken in before you arrive to avoid any painful blisters on the trails.

I’ve learned the hard way that good socks are just as important as the shoes themselves. Investing in some quality moisture-wicking pairs will keep your feet dry and blister-free all day long.

If you’re hitting the hiking trails, you’ll want some dedicated hiking socks. They provide extra cushioning and help manage moisture much better than your regular everyday pairs.

I find a sling bag to be one of the most versatile things I pack because it works for city walks and keeps my most important things right across my chest where they’re easy to reach.

A fanny pack is another great hands-free way to keep your essentials close. It’s perfect for wandering through busy markets where you want to keep your valuables secure and accessible.

Sometimes it’s nice to put the phone away and look at a physical guidebook for historical context. It’s a great way to learn more about the city’s rich history without staring at a screen all day.

The sun can be surprisingly bright as it reflects off the historic buildings and the river. A good pair of sunglasses will protect your eyes and keep you comfortable while you’re out sightseeing.

Staying hydrated is key when you’re walking miles between museums and beer gardens. You’ll find plenty of places to top off your bottle as you explore the city.

A hat is a versatile accessory that works for both sun protection in the summer and extra warmth during those chilly winter months. It’s one of those things you’ll be glad you have regardless of the season.

A crossbody bag is much more secure than a shoulder bag, especially in crowded bars or clubs. It keeps your essentials close to your body and gives you that extra peace of mind while you’re out having fun.

If you’re planning on hitting a nice restaurant or a fancy bar, a sharp blazer is an easy way to elevate your look. It’s versatile enough to work for both daytime sightseeing and evening outings.

A collared shirt is a versatile piece that works for almost any evening occasion. You can dress it up with a blazer or keep it simple for a more casual dinner in the Old Town.

Prague has a wonderful culture of music and dining, and you’ll probably want at least one outfit that’s a bit more elevated. A simple dress is an easy way to go from a day of sightseeing to a classical concert or a nice dinner.

Even in the summer, the temperature can drop once the sun goes down. A light cardigan or sweater is an easy way to stay warm during those breezy rooftop drinks or late-night walks.

You’ll find yourself reaching for these for everything, from cleaning messy hands to wiping down sticky surfaces. They’re an absolute essential for any trip with little ones.

Kids’ sensitive skin needs that extra bit of protection, especially during those long summer days in the city parks. Mineral-based formulas are usually the best bet for little ones.

While many places in Prague are family-friendly, they don’t always have high chairs available. A portable option means you can enjoy your meal without worrying about where the baby will sit.

The historic cobblestone streets can be really tough on strollers. If you’re bringing one, make sure it’s a sturdy model with good wheels, or consider using a carrier for easier navigation.

I’ve found a carrier to be the absolute best way to navigate the narrow and bumpy streets of the Old Town. It keeps your hands free and your little one comfortable while you’re out exploring.

Having some familiar snacks from home is a lifesaver for those moments when you’re between meals or if your child is being a bit picky with local food. Reusable containers help keep everything fresh.

A pair of volume-limited headphones is great for keeping kids entertained during the flight or for some quiet downtime at the hotel. Over-ear styles usually stay on much better than earbuds.

I like to keep a small kit with child-specific bandages and pain relievers handy. It’s much better to have your preferred brands on hand than to be hunting for a pharmacy in a foreign country.

A good hat is one of the most important things for protecting your child from the sun. Wide-brimmed styles offer the best coverage for their face and neck during those long days in the park.

Sunglasses with 100% UV protection are key for keeping little eyes safe and comfortable. We found that the pairs with head straps were the only ones that actually stayed on during active play.

Changing tables aren’t always easy to find in older European buildings. A portable changing mat means you’ll be prepared to handle a diaper change wherever you happen to be.

Keeping kids hydrated is so important for avoiding meltdowns in the heat. Reusable, insulated bottles keep water cool and fresh for hours while you’re out exploring the city.

Bringing a familiar sheet from home can help your little one feel more at ease in a new sleeping environment. It’s one of those small things that can really help everyone get a better night’s rest.