Travel Gear

Packing for a Greek Island Summer

by Lindsay
How to pack for a Greek Summer

Last updated: 23 June 2025

Santorini or Sifnos, that sunkissed Greek island dream follows the same fetching formula of cerulean seas and countryside adventures. Full of charm, yet riddled with potholes, you’ll want to avoid tripping over cobblestone streets, slipping over ubiquitous marble floors, and the chilly evening bite of meltemi winds (northern summer winds affecting the Cycladic islands). From anatomic flip flops to the perfect type of swimwear, there’s a smart way to pack for the sea and sun. Here’s how: 

Mini Bags
Little, but large enough for your phone, card holder, wipes, and keys, the perfect mini bag slips seamlessly into a tote you can leave behind in your car rental (discreetly, so as not to encourage break-ins) for quick trips to archeological sites and supermarket stops. Locally-made Bleecker and Love has a waterproof line of cute clutches available at many island boutiques.
summer tote bags
Greece is where your basket bag is truly home. Haute-hippy Sezane has a staple line of lightweight and packable French-chic raffia totes. More practically, State of Escape’s neoprene bags are super-light and washable. They also have an oversized collection for the family mule. Alf the Label also has a mesh bag that will go from city to beach. Our top beach bag pick? Zara’s foldable cotton XL shopper you can buy in stores. 
Summer footwear
Our summer footwear of choice is something that lets sand pass through our toes. Snug, supportive, and grippy enough for marble streets and slippery beach rocks, Archies might be one of the few flip-flops your podiatrist won’t mind you wearing.
Need more support? On’s Cloud Coast sneaker series is breathable enough for sock-free strolls, and has kick-down heels for beach walks and travel packability. Not to forget the footwear of choice for the ancient Greeks – the leather sandal. Look for something that provides comfortable padding between you and the rocky paths you will roam, with supple straps. Ancient Greek Sandals‘ comfort sole line is perfect for long village roams.

Sun protection essentials in Greece
Sun protection (all kinds of it) is nearly as essential as your phone and keys. For sunscreen, Greek pharmacies stock local go-to brands Apivita and Korres alongside European favourites like La Rosche Posay. A hat is another must. Avenue has the cutest line of packable straw hats. Something with chin straps is a smart choice, especially if you are bound for the windy Cyclades. Lastly, Fulton’s aerolite umbrella is so light and small it’s a staple in the heat of July and August. Muji’s foldable umbrella also works well. Quick tip on hydration and water bottles: tap water is not drinkable on many Greek islands. Bringing your own water bottles may be redundant since you will have to purchase bottled water anyways, although we still tote our Owalas to keep drinks ice cold.
Summer Dresses for Greece
Pick out a wardrobe that’s light, cottony soft, and breathable. Sundresses are easy to throw on after beach trips, and are ideally stylish enough for continuing to the Chora (main town) after sundown. The temperature drops quickly with the sun in Spring and Autumn – don’t forget a cardigan or light jacket, and longer summer dresses. (Pictured here: Short, roomy and ultra-relaxed dresses by Greek Archaic Kori and Diish)
Khione Swimwear
We live in our swim gear in summer. So I bring at least 3 sets, keeping an extra set in the beach bag. Bandeau-style two pieces make for easy toilet trips, facilitate surreptitious clothing changes on the beach, and match any cut of sundress you throw on after. They also dry quicker than one-piece swimsuits if you’re in them all-day-long. Need something for the whole family? Greek-brand Marie Raxevsky will have you covered. The list for beach trips can get lengthy – use this as an added guide. (Pictured here: Kiohne’s Miami bandeau bikini set in night sky)

0
FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail

You may also like

Essential Baby and Toddler Travel Gear for a...

The Ultimate Beach Holiday Adventure Kit

The Best Baby and Toddler Toys to Travel...

Beach Essentials for Families with Kids

@2025 - All Rights Reserved.