10 Things to Pack for Portugal and 5 to Leave Home

Portugal is informal, mild and hillier than the photographs suggest. Pack for walking and for temperature swings between afternoon and evening.

## Ten to bring 1. Shoes with grip. Polished limestone pavement is slippery even when it is only damp. 2. A second pair of comfortable shoes, so one can dry. 3. A light jacket or wrap. Evenings by the Atlantic are cool in every month. 4. A compact rain layer between October and April. 5. Sunscreen, all year. The southern sun is strong even in winter. 6. Sunglasses, for the same reason. 7. A refillable bottle. Tap water is safe throughout the country. 8. A European plug adapter, type F, two round pins, 230 volts. 9. A small daypack for water, layers and a camera. 10. Smart casual clothes for dinner. Portugal is relaxed, but not beachwear relaxed away from the coast.

## Five to leave at home 1. High heels. The cobbles will win. 2. A heavy winter coat, unless you are going to the mountains in January. 3. Formal evening wear. Very few places require it. 4. Large amounts of cash. Cards work almost everywhere, with a small reserve for villages. 5. A hairdryer, an iron and anything else your hotel already has.

## One more thing Leave space in the bag. Wine, olive oil, tinned fish, ceramics and tiles are the things people buy and then have nowhere to put. If you plan to bring wine home, check your airline allowance before the tasting, not after.