Turkey Summer Holidays: Suitcase Checklist

We’re so excited to be featuring Turkey this month, highlighting some of our best deals to resorts in Antalya, Bodrum, Dalaman and Izmir.

If you’re thinking of booking a holiday this summer, stay tuned for a month of tips to the country of two continents (Europe and Asia), a place that’s full of ancient history, beautiful textiles and mouth-watering mezes – yum!

First off, if you’re wondering what to pack for your trip to Turkey, here’s a shopping list to ensure you’ve got everything you need:

  • In Turkish holiday resorts, t-shirts, shorts, sarongs and swimwear are best for everyday wear and if you’re spending your days on the beach and pavement cafes, this kind of clothing should be lightweight, cool and comfortable.
  • Most importantly, remember to pack your sun cream, sunglasses and sun hat to protect your skin from the Mediterranean sun.
  • Remember to include something smarter for the evenings, even if you haven’t chosen the most luxurious 5-star hotel. Turkish people like to dress up when the sun goes down – even those who wear full-length burkas and pashminas – and there are plenty of cafes, bars and restaurants to enjoy a meal or relaxing drink.
  • Turkey is of course a Muslim country, and so, in the cities, women may wear evening scarves or embroidered shawls, long dresses and sleeves that cover their arms. There is no rule that says you have to dress similarly, but be cognisant of the local culture and think about carrying a light shawl to drape over your shoulders.
  • Ladies, pack a couple of pairs of leggings to wear under short skirts for walking in the city. Less important in resort towns where tourists are common, you may need them for travelling in Anatolia and Istanbul.

  • If you plan to visit one of the many mosques in Turkey (and we recommend that you do), try to wear modest clothing that covers your legs and arms; in some mosques attendants will provide you with robes. The custom is to remove your shoes before stepping onto the carpets and always be respectful of people who are praying.
  • Pack comfortable shoes. Even if you’re visiting a relatively small Turkish village, try to pack shoes that allow for plenty of walking around local sights (particularly historical attractions).
    Summer (August and September) is a great time to visit Turkey as it can be very hot and seldom rains, although you might encounter a few scattered showers on the Black Sea coast. Pack a light sweater or waterproof jacket just in case!