Estonia Packing List: What I Brought and How to Pack

Relying on Google Maps to find those hidden alleys in the Old Town 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 city walls and bogs. The good news is that Estonian tap water is perfectly safe and actually tastes quite good.

Don’t underestimate the summer sun while you’re out exploring hilltop castles or wandering through the Telliskivi Creative City. 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 bottle won’t ruin your gear. I love the ones that hang up for easy access in smaller hotel bathrooms.

Tallinn is a vibrant city with a lively nightlife, but that can mean some noise if your hotel is in the heart of the Old Town. These are absolute lifesavers for ensuring you get a quiet night’s rest.

The weather in the Baltics 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 Tallinn and Tartu during your trip.

I honestly can’t travel without these anymore because they make organizing layers and city gear 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 flying budget airlines like airBaltic or Ryanair, you’ll want to keep an eye on your bag’s weight. A quick check with a scale can save you from those annoying overweight fees.

A lightweight daypack is perfect for carrying your camera, umbrella and an extra layer 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.

Long sleeves are great for layering, especially since the Baltics can feel quite breezy even in the middle of summer. I wore mine almost every day to stay comfortable while exploring.

A warm sweater is a crucial layer for those cool evening walks along the coast. Merino wool is my favorite because it’s lightweight, warm and stays fresh even after multiple wears.

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 full day of hitting the museums and city walls. They’re my favorite travel day staple for staying comfortable.

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 neighborhoods or head out to the countryside.

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.

Tallinn 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 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.

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

If you’re planning any hikes in places like the Viru Bog, proper waterproof 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. Quality moisture-wicking pairs will keep your feet dry and comfy 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 sea. 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 city walls. You’ll find plenty of places to top off your bottle as you explore the neighborhoods.

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.

Sturdy boots are the best choice for dealing with the uneven terrain you’ll find in the forests and bogs. Make sure they have good traction so you’re not sliding around while you explore the trails.

A guidebook can be really helpful for identifying the local flora and fauna you’ll encounter on the trails. It’s a great way to learn more about Estonia’s beautiful natural environment.

A good rain jacket is absolutely essential because the Estonian weather can be quite fickle. It’ll keep you dry during sudden showers and block those cool breezes while you’re out hiking.

A good hat is one of the most important things for protecting yourself from the sun while you’re out on the trails. We found that a wide-brimmed style offered the best coverage for long days in the bogs.

Make sure to carry enough water when you’re heading out on the trails, as refill spots can be hard to find in the forests. Staying hydrated is key for a successful and enjoyable hike.

The glare from the sun can be surprisingly strong as it reflects off the water in the bogs. A good pair of sunglasses will protect your eyes and keep you comfortable while you’re out exploring.

A lightweight windbreaker is often all you need to stay comfortable during those breezy summer days on the coast. It’s an easy layer to throw on and takes up very little space in your daypack.

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 Estonia 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.