What I Packed for Mallorca & Menorca
What to Pack for Mallorca & Menorca in the Summer
A 2-Week Packing Guide
If you’re dreaming of turquoise coves, beautiful beaches, fresh seafood, crisp sangria and long sunny days, the Balearic Islands, particularly Mallorca and Menorca, are the perfect Mediterranean summer escape. Now, of course, packing for a summer beach trip is relatively easy, and doesn’t usually require much outside of some light layers and a swimsuit. However, in the Balearic Islands, there is a bit of a variety of activities that you may need to be ready for, anything from beach days to city strolls, scenic hikes, wine tastings, sailing, evenings spent lingering over fresh seafood at seaside restaurants and, maybe even a little dancing. Suffice it to say, depending on your trip itinerary, packing for two weeks in the islands may require just a little bit of strategy.
The biggest thing to keep in mind is that packing for Mallorca and Menorca in summer is all about light layers. Think linens, breathable fabrics, pieces with versatility and comfort, and (mostly) practical footwear. With this in mind, you’ll be ready for anything, from exploring Palma’s Old Town to lounging in Cala Mitjana’s crystal waters.
Below, I’m getting into all the deets on the ultimate packing guide for a two-week trip to Mallorca and Menorca in summer, the nitty gritty of everything I packed for my own recent trip to the islands, what I found useful and what I wish I had packed, along with tips to pack more efficiently and keep your luggage light while still feeling stylish and prepared on your trip.
A PACKING LIST FOR TWO WEEKS IN Mallorca and Menorca
Clothing Essentials for Two Weeks in Mallorca & Menorca
1. LIGHT DRESSES & SKIRTS (4-5)
Pack 4–5 versatile dresses and/or skirts (linen, cotton, or lightweight blends) that can go from day to night. Think neutral tones for easy mixing. I personally didn’t wear skirts a lot, but I will throw layers over my longer dresses giving the illusion of a top and skirt.
On our trip, I lived in this Sezane dress as it was lightweight and cool, and easy to take from day-to-night, but I also wore this Brochu Walker dress, this Buck Mason dress and this Jenni Kayne slip dress throughout the trip as well as a linen dress that I picked up in a local shop in Mallorca. At minimum I’d suggest having at least 1 short dress and 1 long dress, preferably both ones that can go from day to night.
2. LINEN OR COTTON TOPS (4-6)
Bring 4–6 tops- linen shirts, breezy blouses, and oversized tees and tank tops, anything perfect for staying cool in the sun and layering if need be. The ones I personally reached for on repeat include this t-shirt, this tank top, this bandeau top and this lightweight top that could easily be dressed up or down. Avoid anything too tight or constricting.
3. SHORTS & LIGHT TROUSERS (2-3)
I’d suggest one-two pairs of shorts for daytime exploring and a pair or two of light trousers or wide-leg pants for evenings out. I’m not much of a shorts person, so I mostly only used shorts for relaxing at the house or wearing to the beach, but I wore my linen pants on repeat. Oh, and in case it wasn’t obvious, leave your jeans at home.
4. SWIMSUITS & COVER-UPS (2-3)
Bring at least 2 swimsuits (a two-piece, if that’s your thing, and a one-piece) so you can rotate while others dry. For cover-ups, in my opinion, there’s no need to take up suitcase space with a dedicated cover-ups. Instead, just utilize other pieces you’re already bringing, such as a lightweight dress, a loose t-shirt and shorts, or an oversized button down.
5. LIGHT JACKET, WRAP OR SWEATER (1)
Even in summer, the sea breeze can sometimes get cool in the evenings so be sure to have something like a light denim jacket or cotton sweater for layering. I brought this one with me and it was perfect.
6. WORKOUT + LOUNGE CLOTHES (1-2 sets)
For workouts, hikes and lounging during down time; I brought one matching set of workout leggings and a sports bra, a sweatshirt and a pair of terry cotton shorts (that also ended up doubling up as part of a beach cover-up outfit).
7. SUNNY SUMMER ESSENTIALS
Sunglasses, a beach bag and a summer hat are, obviously, a must.
Footwear for Mallorca & Menorca in Summer
I basically only wore two pairs of shoes my entire trip- my Birkenstocks and my TKEES flip-flops. And tbh, really mostly just my Birkenstocks. I wore them to the beach, for walking and exploring, and even out to eat. They’re comfortable, casual but elevated, and have great traction, meaning the handle everything from uneven cobblestone streets to rocky beaches really well. I’m telling you, if there is only one pair of shoes you bring, let it be these. Here’s a full list of footwear recommendations-
For beach days, cobblestone streets, walking and exploring and everything else in between; no one is more suited to the job than Birkenstocks.
ESPADRILLES OR A DRESSIER SANDAL
For dinners out; I had a pair of black slides as well as a pair of lace-up sandals, both of which were in heavy rotation for evening outfits
For the beach as well as meals out; I especially love Tkees because they’re so lightweight and minimal that they can easily be dressed up or down and I’m definitely not above wearing them with a dinner outfit if the look and location is right. I always bring a black and brown pair with me.
SNEAKERS
Another footwear option for days spent exploring, but not absolutely necessary unless you plan to hike or bike. I had a pair of both Adidas and Hokas (for working out/walking) with me.
Yes, I brought one pair just in case, because, as I like to say, you never know. I did see a few woman wearing heels in Mallorca, but none in Menorca, so you really don’t need heels for the islands, especially if you have a pair of dressier sandals, unless you absolutely want to bring them.
Not necessary, but can definitely be helpful for some of the more rocky beaches and exploring the calas. While I managed fine without them, there were definitely a few instances that I wish I had a pair with me.
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Accessories
BAGS
SMALL CROSSBODY BAG for hands-free city exploring.
EVENING BAG for dinners and nights out, unless my crossbody bag, like this one, doubles as an evening bag.
WOVEN TOTE, which isn’t at all a necessity, but I found it works well for everything from day to night, to coffee runs and happy hour, to a mini beach bag and everything in between. I brought this one and this one.
BEACH BAG, preferably something packable, which is why I love this one, but because I have no chill, I couldn’t help myself in bringing this one as well as picking up a market bag while we were there.
REUSABLE BAG for grocery runs, market trips, and can even double as an extra beach bag if needed.
FOR YOUR HEAD
A HAT for sun protection; I love this one and I also brought a baseball cap.
A HEAD SCARF which is great for keeping hair back in the sun and wind, or covering up if you’re visiting any of the churches
JEWELRY
This is a full list of the jewelry I brought and wore throughout the trip. Outside of my usual rings, gold hoops and dainty chain, I found myself reaching for my chunky beaded necklace and bangles the most. Definitely recommend having at least one statement piece with you, such as a chunky necklace or bracelet, as it’s such an easy way to dress up a simple outfit and take it from day to night.
AURATE Mini Diamond Bezel Necklace (use code ALYSSA-20 for 20% off any AURATE orders)
Toiletries & Sun Care
SUNCARE
SUNSCREEN: Look for one that is reef-safe; I also brought (and loved!) this gorgeous sunscreen for a bit of an extra golden glow.
ALOE VERA GEL: A necessity for skin after a day spent in the sun.
TOILETRIES
Be sure to include essentials like:
MEDICATION AND SUPPLEMENTS
While you can definitely find standard medicines and first aid supplies at the local drug store, you’ll want to pack any necessary medications, as well as any specific over-the-counter remedies you prefer for basic ailments like cold symptoms, headaches, allergies, bloating or upset stomachs (I love ginger chews for this).
BEAUTY ESSENTIALS
SKINCARE
Between the flight and traveling through various climates, your skin can get especially dried out. So besides your regular skincare essentials, be sure to have a face cream or oil, hand cream and lip balm that are extra indulgent and moisturizing. You can read more about travel skincare essentials here but, in the meantime, these are a few of my ride-or-die favorites that I almost never travel without:
FACE MOISTURIZER: I like this one because it’s really thick and leaves me skin feeling hydrated and glowing, no matter what travel or climate I’m in. I also bring a light daytime moisturizer with SPF.
RESEST SPRAY: Literally can’t live without this product! It is desert island, holy grail status for me, and especially so when I’m traveling because it makes skin so glowing and hydrated. Using it after skincare, before makeup, and spritz it on to refresh your skin throughout the day. Yes, it’s a glass bottle and yes, it’s full sized, but that is how much it is worth bringing on a trip.
MAKE-UP
Trust me when I say you don’t need much. The more minimal the better. Think tinted moisturizer, brow gel, lip balm. I also love this creamy, natural looking bronzer and this make-up stick that pulls double duty as a blush and bronzer combo that’s especially complimentary to sun-kissed skin.
HAIR CARE
THERMAL BRUSH: Great for quick and easy styling on-the-go, this brush simultaneously dries and styles which is great because who wants to spend time doing their hair when they’re on a trip?!
WIDE TOOTH COMB: For detangling post-beach hair
HAIR MASK: For rehydrating strands after days spent in the sun, sea and pool
LEAVE-IN CONDITIONER: Great for added moisture and air dry hair styles
HAIR GEL: For taming frizz and flyaways that pop up in the heat and for quickly creating effortless and sleek post-beach hair styles, especially when you’re short on time and need to go from beach to dinner real quick; I love this gel because it’s soft and workable and doesn’t create anything too stiff.
AIR-DRY PRODUCT: I like to bring a product or two that helps me air dry my hair as there’s often not time to spend hours styling my hair, nor do I really want to when it’s hot and humid out. This product is a great example of one that I love to have with me.
SILK PILLOWCASE: I like to bring a silk pillowcase with me, especially in hot and humid climates, to help control frizz and keep my hair smooth and silky while I sleep. I know this might seem excessive but they’re so lightweight and take up practically no space so it’s worth to me for better hair (and skin) while traveling.
Electronics and Charging Gear
As a photographer, a camera (ok actually multiple cameras) is a non-negotiable for us. But even if you just like to take photos casually, I still suggest bringing a lightweight camera capture your European adventure. Sure you can use a phone, but nothing beats camera quality, especially if you plan to ever print any photos off. We have and love this camera as our compact option. It’s super lightweight, has tons of settings and options, is easy to use and the quality is top notch.
Europe uses different plug types than North America and some other regions so be sure to pack a few universal power adapters so you can charge your devices without trouble. FYI, Spain uses Type C & F plugs.
Long days of sightseeing will inevitably leave your phone running low on battery so a portable charger is a total lifesaver when you plan to be out and about all day.
LUGGAGE
Outside of the basics (i.e. a suitcase and toiletry case), here are a few things that help me to pack better:
Packing cubes are a game changer when it comes to packing more efficiently, organizing your clothes by category (shirts, pants, etc.) and saving space in your luggage. Highly recommend.
A must if you like to shop and bring home antiques. I always bring an expandable duffle bag to Europe so that I can transfer clothes and other non-breakable items to it for the trip back home and can then bring any fragile or breakable antiques, pottery, travel purchases and souvenirs back in my hard suitcases.
My trusty carry-on bag for almost a decade and counting. Expandable, easy to roll, holds so much, lightweight, dependable. Let’s just say there’s a reason most flight crews use this as their go to bag.
Super helpful to keep track of the weight of your luggage when you’re repacking to head home, and even more so if you’re flying different airlines through different airports as some of have different weight restrictions than others.
TRAVEL FAVORITES + Optional Items to Consider
These are a few things that I personally take on every trip and honestly can’t live without, especially on long haul travel days.
NOISE CANCELING HEADPHONES: A must for long haul flights, train rides and travel days
MINI MASSAGE GUN: An absolute game changer for relieving pain and muscle cramps on long flights and post-days spent walking and exploring. This one is so small and easy to re-charge but trust me, it still packs a punch.
TIGER BALM PAIN PATCHES: These feel wonderful on any pain points that pop up on a long flight or after long days spent out and about. I especially love putting one on my lower back for flights. So helpful!
RESISTANCE BANDS: For workouts on-the-go
COMPRESSION SOCKS: A necessity for long flights
EYE MASK: Helpful for sleeping on flights, and homes and hotel rooms that may not have the best window covering situations. I also love these warming masks for an extra luxurious travel treat.
REUSABLE WATER BOTTLE: Obviously, staying hydrated while traveling is important. Many European cities offer free drinking water fountains, and a reusable water bottle can save you money and reduce plastic waste.
ELECTROLYTE POWDER: And on the topic of hydration, I always like to bring electrolyte powder to stay even more hydrated, especially with changing time zones, climates and busy schedules.
SNACKS: I always like to pack a few of my own snacks since it can be harder to find healthy (and reasonably priced) snack options on the go. Think things like nuts, crackers, protein bars, dried fruit and meat sticks.
EXTRA ZIPLOCK BAGS: Because you never know what you might need to pack up
A NOTEBOOK: I love jotting down notes about our travels, from where to we go to what we eat and what we cook
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Travel Documents and Essentials
I think most of these go without saying, but a friendly reminder never hurts, right?!
PASSPORT AND I.D.
Obviously, your passport is a must, but make sure to also carry a photocopy of it and any other important documents like your travel insurance or reservation confirmations just in case something gets lost, misplaced, you don’t have service, etc.
TRAVEL INSURANCE
While it’s not mandatory, travel insurance can save you a lot of stress if something unexpected happens during your trip.
CREDIT AND DEBIT CARDS
Notify your bank of your travel dates to avoid any fraud alerts. It’s also wise to carry some local currency, especially for small purchases or tips.
OTHER SUGGESTIONS
READING MATERIAL: magazines, books, a Kindle
SNORKELING GEAR: if you’re planning to do any snorkeling
WATER SHOES: not necessary, but can definitely be helpful for some of the more rocky beaches and exploring the calas
BEACH TOWELS: most home rentals and hotels provide towels, but I like to bring my own (if I have the space in my suitcase to do so) just in case
Tips FOR PACKING for TWO Weeks in the Balearic Islands
Stick to a color palette so pieces mix and match easily. I usually stick to neutrals and then only add in one or two pops of colors in the form of accessories.
Book a place with laundry. We always book a home rental that has a washer, if not a dryer (which can sometimes be harder to find in Europe), and most hotels also offer laundry services, as well. This way you can pack less and keep up with laundry on your trip for easier unpacking when you return home.
Roll clothes to maximize suitcase space and minimize wrinkles.
Use packing cubes to keep your suitcase neat and efficient and to stay organized when moving between Mallorca and Menorca.
Leave space for souvenirs. Things like ceramics, local olive oil, salt, espadrilles or sandals from Pons Menorca are always worth bringing home, and exactly why we bring an extra bag with us on every trip.
What’s the Weather Like in the Balearic Islands in Summer?
Summer in Mallorca and Menorca runs from late June through early September, with July and August being the hottest months. There was a bit of a heat wave when we were there in early July and I know it has only continued to get warmer into August. But in general you can expect something along these lines:
Daytime highs: 82–90°F (28–32°C)
Warm evenings: Often in the 70s°F (21–26°C)
Lots of sun: Average of 10+ hours of daylight; I was absolutely living for daylight until 9pm!
Occasional breezes: Especially along the coast and in Menorca
During our trip, it was warmer and more humid on Mallorca and minimal clothing was a necessity, where as Menorca was more pleasant and cooler, especially in the evenings. We also had a bit of a rain storm in Menorca on one of the days of our trip. For Menorca, I could comfortably wear pants during the day whereas in Mallorca the thought of wearing pants, even at night, sounded brutal. Suffice it to say, if you’re spending time on both islands, a mix of light, breathable clothing is key, but you’ll still want to be prepared with a few layers on standby.
The TL:DR Two-Week Packing List
4-5 dresses and/or skirts- a mix of short and long options
4-6 tops
1-2 pairs of pants (linen, no denim)
1-2 pairs of shorts
2-3 swimsuits
Workout Set
Loungewear Set
Sleepwear
Underwear
Socks (Don’t forget compression socks for flying!)
4 pairs of shoes (sandals, flip-flops, sneakers, something dressy)
1 light jacket, sweater or wrap
1 hat
Sunglasses
Jewelry
Bags/Purses
Beach Bag
Toiletries + Sunscreen
Hair Care
Skincare
Make-up
Electronics + Charger + Adapter
Packable Duffle Bag (for bringing souvenirs home)
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