Packing for an upcoming holiday can be something that truly boosts those endorphin levels.
The long-awaited escape from reality is almost here and the sunshine and crystal-clear waters you've been daydreaming about from your office are finally within reach. However, for some, the packing process can bring about feelings of pure stress and chaos.
Essentially, you either fall into one of these two archetypes of travellers:
- Those who meticulously plan their holiday outfits and pack weeks in advance
- Those who throw everything together at 04:00 before their flight, frantically running up and down the stairs, forgetting what they were even looking for and almost leaving their passport behind
Whichever camp you fall into, this guide has you covered for your trip to the island.
As self-proclaimed Ibiza experts, we'll walk you through the essential items you need to bring. Let's be honest: you'll probably return home with half of what you packed, but these must-haves will make your trip smoother and even more unforgettable.
Fancy dress?
Don't judge, for some, it's a holiday pre-requisite. While you may recoil in horror usually, let's at least admit most of us are happy to get involved as part of a hen or stag group setting.
It's worth noting that if you turn up to a club in fancy dress, football shirts or anything deemed inappropriate, you'll likely be turned away at the door of most clubs. However, depending on the night, some parties fully embrace creative costumes.
elrow, Flower Power and Glitterbox all encourage you to go all out, dressing to the nines and immersing yourself in the wild, theatrical themes - it's all part of the fun!
As for general clubwear, dressing up in sexy, sparkly unique garments has become a statement at some of the island's biggest parties. But even if you just throw on an oversized t-shirt and go au natural on the make-up front, honestly, you're on Ibiza - it's fine.
You might also find you acquire extra accessories whilst you're here... being on holiday is as good a reason as any to browse the handmade jewellery stands at the street markets.
Word to the wise, though. If you're going to Pacha, Chinois, Lío or anywhere else here that's VIP-oriented, make a bit of an effort. For men, it's advisable not to wear shorts, lest you run the risk of a humiliating "no" at the velvet rope.
Protection (and not only that kind)
Without sounding too much like your mum, let's talk about protection, because it's essential in more ways than one. The Ibiza sun is a gift, but one that deserves respect. Don't be reckless with your skin. Strutting around the island with a sunburnt, lobster-red back? Massive ick. No, boys.
And if you're heading to the island single and looking to meet the love of your life, it might be wise to pack some condoms.
Ibiza might not have quite the same reputation as Magaluf, but you never know... thousands of beautiful people with hormones flying around their body coming face-to-face with the most exposed flesh they ever seen, your reproductive urges are going to be on high alert. Stay safe.
Finally, let's not forget ear protection.
Too many people brush this one off, but if you're spending night after night next to pounding bass monitors, your hearing won't thank you for it. If you can't get on with the disposable ones, treat yourself to a custom pair. See it as a long-term investment in your health.
If you're frequently in the club and attending concerts, whether home or abroad, customised ear protection is highly recommended
Plus, it's not just for Ibiza, but festivals and clubs too. Trust me, you'll get plenty of use out of them.
Appropriate footwear
Whether you are clambering over rugged terrain on a coastal hike or dancing until dawn in the clubs, your choice of footwear is an essential part of how enjoyable your holiday ends up.
With super-clubs closing between 06:00 and 07:00, you'll definitely need a good pair of comfortable, sturdy dancing shoes. When the dancefloor calls, stick to boots or trainers.
Avoid open-toe shoes or heels unless you can actually dance in them. On packed dancefloors, getting someone's wayward drink spilled over your bare feet will be the least of your worries. Broken glass is the real danger (and we probably don't need to tell you how filthy the floor is!)
If you like to get intrepid in the wilderness, you might also like to pack some waterproof rock shoes. Also pack a nice pair of wedges for that main character entrance to O Beach, but you will be forever immortalised on social media if you stack it.
Away from the beach club, they're pretty surplus to requirements.
Party fan
Okay, perhaps not necessarily one to pack, but definitely one to acquire along the way.
The party fan is an Ibiza staple. There's nothing worse than being sticky and sweaty when you're trying to enjoy yourself. Unless you've kept that FMIF! branded one from Ibiza '08, put this at the top of your to-buy list and purchase when you land.
It's hot in the day, it's hot in the night, it's just hot - okay? However, out of principle, never buy in the club. €15 from the gift shop is poor economy. Just take your beleaguered, sweaty self to the front of the DJ booth, look like a dishevelled hot mess and make puppy-dog eyes with the DJ.
Eight times out of ten, this tactic will secure you a free fan (lower success rate if you're a guy)!
Portable charging device
We've all been there when we're standing in the crowd at an event, and someone in the group yells, "has anyone got a charger on ‘em?!"
When it comes to Ibiza, you never know when you'll be heading back to your hotel to get more juice, so bringing one out with you. Whether it's to the club or the beach, it's always a good idea. How do you intend on taking those fire pics with no phone battery, eh?
Or, more importantly, messaging your pal if you get separated in the club.
And just think, if you've been lucky enough to bag an invite to an exclusive villa after party, don't expect to have any luck remaining when it comes to finding a taxi home. A fully charged device becomes invaluable at this point. Believe!
Hotel essentials
There are a few essentials you might want to pack for your hotel stay. While you won't be spending much time there, aside from catching a few hours of sleep and getting ready, it's worth considering a couple of things.
- Plug adaptor & extension lead – Many budget hotel rooms have a frustrating lack of sockets, which can be a nightmare when multiple of the girlies need to straighten or blow-dry their hair whilst simultaneously charging their phones. An extension lead will be a lifesaver.
- Bed sheets – Hotels provide clean sheets, of course, but if you're a fake tan lover, be prepared for potential extra charges at checkout. Fake bake aficionadas are increasingly advised to bring their own pillow covers, towels and sheets to avoid these penalties.
- Portable speaker – This one's a must for getting ready and setting the vibe at the pre-drinks. Just be mindful of other guests in hotels - keep the volume respectful. Though if you're in a secluded villa, feel free to turn it up a notch - just remember to move it inside after 23:00
First aid kit
Items you won't necessarily think are essential, until you come to need them: over the counter pain-killers, electrolytes, plasters and vitamin supplements.
These are things that can be incredibly useful the morning after a wild night out, helping you recover and get back in the party spirit for another round. But of course, a quick jump into a pool and some vitamin D on your skin is nearly always just as effective.
The sea is a healer. Make it a part of your daily holiday ritual.
We hope you find this advice helpful in preparing for your exciting trip. If all else fails, just pack half the clothes and twice the money! You'll be sure to have an amazing holiday on Ibiza.
WORDS | by Lissy Lübeck and Holly Woulfe
