Table of Contents

23 Top Romania Packing List Items for 2025 + What to Wear & NOT to Bring

Updated on January 02, 2025

Romania is one of the most unique, historical countries in Europe. Its history is riddled with some of the most voracious characters and destinations in the world including Vlad The Impaler, whom some say the famous Bran Stoker’s character Dracula is based on, and Bran Castle, better known as Dracula’s Castle.

Romania has vast landscapes, beautiful architecture, and a vibe that is completely different than most places in Europe. It has a rich history and vibrant energy that contributes to the exciting energy and nightlife that is exclusive to Romania.

To make sure you experience all there is to see in Romania, I’ve created a list of packing essentials, what to see, how to dress for the season and the vibe, and a list of FAQs, all to make this your best trip yet!

See our product selection criteria and guidelines here.

What to Pack for Romania – 23 Essentials

1. Universal Power Adapter
Make sure you grab this Universal Power Adapter for all of your travel destinations! Romania has a 250 V, 50 Hz type F prongs (rounded tips), so make sure you have at least two of the adapters to bring along for your trip. Having an extra 1 or 2 is always a good idea in case you lose or forget one somewhere so you’re not stranded without one. You’ll need them to charge your phones, laptops, cameras, any device you can think of, plus you’ll have a lifetime replacement guarantee.

View on Amazon.com ➜
2. Lipstick-Sized Portable Charger
Have you ever been somewhere you want to take pictures but your phone is dead and you have no place to charge it? I think we’ve all been there. Don’t ever find yourself in that situation again. Grab this portable charger that you can carry with you anywhere so you don’t have to worry about missing that great photo opp. And the best thing? It’s compact and carries enough power to cover more than a full charge to the newest iPhone models.

View on Amazon.com ➜
3. Virtual Private Network (VPN)
A Virtual Private Network, or VPN, is important to have when traveling. It will protect your information and passwords from being swiped if you are in a cafe, restaurant, hotel, or Airbnb, or airport using public WiFi. It’s also important to have if you want to access websites from home that may not be available in Romania.

View NordVPN.com Options ➜
4. Windproof Travel Umbrella
This portable umbrella is a must-have for being in the occasional rain shower that may happen in certain seasons in Romania. It’s lightweight, weighing less than 1 lb., and only 12 inches long. It’s also windproof for any wind gusts that may come with the rainfall.

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5. Water Bottle with Built-in Filter
While the main tap water sources in the larger cities of Romania tend to be clean, it’s hit or miss outside of urban areas. We always pack a filtered water bottle to ensure we can purify our hydration on-the-go. This option by Grayl is a little pricey, but when you consider buying plastic water bottles for the entire trip, it pays for itself. It’s a lifesaver since it removes harmful pathogens, bacteria like e. Coli, viruses, microplastics, sediment, and more.

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6. Travel Insurance for Romania
Travel insurance is strongly recommended for Romania, and whenever you leave your home country. Since domestic coverage only pertains to being stateside, you’ll want travel-specific insurance that covers you against common issues like flight delays, baggage loss, theft, rental issues, cancellations, and medical expenses. Our friend had a hiking incident in Europe and thankfully was insured, avoiding a hefty bill!

Our go-to provider is Faye since they outperform the other providers we’ve tried in the past. Everything is handled on their mobile app as a 100% digital experience with 24/7 support. Insurance offers real peace of mind and will pay for itself if anything unexpected comes up!

Get a quote in less than 60 seconds with Faye ➜
7. Neck Wallet
There is always a risk of having items stolen no matter where we are. That risk is increased when we travel. Make sure to grab this Neck Wallet to keep all of your important items safe and secure while you are in Romania. This wallet has RFID blocking so clever scammers can’t scan important information through your wallet.

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8. Lightweight Sweater
Dressing in layers is important in the changing weather of Romania. Grab this lightweight sweater to carry along with you. It can easily fit into your pack, over a shirt, and under a jacket.

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9. Packing Cubes
Do you have to pack and repack your suitcase to try to fit everything in? Use these handy packing cubes to create more space and make everything more compact. Also, you can organize everything easier so that you can grab what you need without digging through every item in your suitcase.

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10. TSA-Approved Luggage Locks
When traveling, it’s important to keep your items safe so that no one can open them and take your belongings. Having this handy set of luggage locks will do just that. Now you can check your bags at the airport and lock them up to ease your mind that no one will be looking through your items.

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11. Quick-Dry Travel Towel
Romania is home to some of the best hot springs in Europe! Even the ancient Romans traveled to the area for the well-known mineral-rich, thermal baths. Make sure you bring this quick-dry towel with you. It’s lightweight and has a carabiner attached so that once you use it, you can attach it to your bag to quick-dry on the way to the next destination.

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12. Hanging Toiletry Bag
Gone are the days of throwing tons of products into little ziplock bags or juggling them on the edge of your sink. Use this handy hanging toiletry bag to create a shelf-like system in your bathroom, regardless of the limited storage space that you’ll find in European bathrooms. Instead of pulling out your hair and stressing over spilled milk toner (see what I did there?) you can keep everything organized in these stain-proof compartments.

We love this option by Eco Sun since it comes equipped with tons of pockets that you can see through to easily grab what you need and go!

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13. Romania eSIM Data Service (Avoid Roaming Fees!)
Don’t give your domestic provider the satisfaction of overcharging you for roaming rates and international fees. Also don’t stand in long lines for a physical SIM card, which will only limit you to one destination (or possibly break or get lost!) The superior option is eSIM by Saily. This 100% digital service can be activated before you go and offer access to the best networks in Romania. You can also country-hop since Saily covers 150+ countries, making it easy to never miss a beat. It’s safer, cheaper, and less prone to hackers!

Use this link for a 5% discount on your upcoming trip – code “ASHER5” automatically applies at checkout.

Pick a data plan at Saily.com ➜
14. Cooling Towels
Romania can get warm, especially during the summer months. A great way to stay cool while exploring the cities or when out in nature is with a cooling towel. They’re compact and simple to use. Just wet the towel, wring out any excess water, and the towel instantly becomes 10-20 degrees cooler than the outside temperature. I like to drape it around my neck to cool off or cover my arms and shoulders from the sun.

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15. Solid Shampoo
When traveling, you have to make sure that you pack all of your liquids in that annoying quart-sized plastic bag. Cut down on what you have to carry along with you by bringing this solid shampoo by Lush. Skeptical? I know I was, but this shampoo works just as well as the liquid variety!

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16. Theft-Proof Backpack
When traveling anywhere, there is always the risk of getting something stolen when you are in high tourist areas. Make sure all of your items are protected with a handy, safe, and lightweight backpack. It’s stylish and durable so that you don’t have to worry about losing your precious items.

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17. Jet Lag Relief
One of the hardest things to overcome when you first arrive in a new country is jet lag. This homeopathic jet-lag supplement helps your body to acclimate to the new time zone and makes the recovery process quicker and easier. You’ll arrive in Romania feeling refreshed and ready to explore!

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18. Activated Charcoal
Romanian food can be heavy and don’t forget about the Pollenca, a popular fruit brandy that all of the locals partake in. Make sure your digestive system stays on track with activated charcoal to keep your system running smoothly. It’s ideal for food poisoning to remove harmful bacteria and get you back on your feet in no time!

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19. Tickets to Top Romania Attractions
The charm of Romania can be found in its historic towns and stories. Our favorite tour was the Dracula’s Castle & Brasov Old Town which took us on a guided tour through some of the most famous castles in Romania. Other great activities to check out include the Therme București wellness spa, a tour of parliament, and, if visiting in the thick of Winter, the magical Christmas markets.

Get Your Guide is our favorite platform for booking tours, and they’ve never steered us wrong!

See all Romanian attractions at GetYourGuide.com ➜
20. Shawl or Scarf
Not only can it get chilly in Romania, but women will require covered shoulders and arms to enter certain holy sites and monasteries. Bring an elegant scarf that can double as a wrap when needed. This one is very lightweight but warm with delicate tassels on the end.

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21. Luggage Straps
Don’t let a luggage mishap slow you down! Adjustable luggage straps are non-negotiables for us after seeing my friend’s luggage wide-open, coming down the airport carousel with his dirty laundry (literally) hanging out. These will secure your bags against bangs and scrapes, making the international journey less stressful.

The vibrant colors are also nice for simplified identification to spot your bag at the arrivals terminal and they’ll help you withstand the busy city streets. You can even tether bags together for simplified maneuvering.

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22. Packable “Just in Case” Bag
One of our favorite hacks is bringing an extra duffel bag for any purchases we make along the way. This one is the perfect size to count as your carry-on bag for the flight home (pro tip for avoiding baggage fees), and it takes up no space on the flight to Romania. Snag some authentic Romanian goods like honey, jams, plum brandy (țuică or palincă), jewelry, clothes, and more.

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23. Waterproof Shoe Bags
Things can get muddy in those Translyvainain towns, between the rain and snow, so your shoes can take a beating. Whether you’re walking the cobblestone streets of Sibiu or trekking the Apuseni Mountains – waterproof shoe bags are handy to have. They prevent your kicks from dirtying your clean items with any street grime, mud, water, or dust. You can use these on excursion days or when packing up a clean suitcase.

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Other Romania Packing List Items Not to Forget

What to Wear in Romania

While in Romania, knowing what to wear will depend upon which season you are planning to visit. Romania’s climate is temperate and has four distinct seasons. Its average temperatures range from 90 degrees in the hot summer months of July and August and cold and snow-covered in the winter months of January and February, especially in the mountain regions.

Most tourists visit in the summer months so it’s important to have comfortable clothes and shoes, a sweater, and even a lightweight jacket. Layers are important as the weather changes throughout the day. If you are traveling in the winter, bundle up! You’ll need warm coats and even boots if you plan to be outside.

What Women Should Wear in Romania? - (Click to expand)

Below is a sample women’s clothing list. (All items link to Amazon.com for your convenience).

Packing for a trip to Romania will depend on the season in which you visit. You’ll need layers and comfortable footwear to combat the cobblestone, closed toed is typically best. Jeans, shirts, and light layers are always a wise precution, but in the winter, you’ll need thicker fabrics like linen and wool. Regardless of the time of year, a rain jacket is necessary Romania experiences rainfall throughout the year. My wife brings a scarf or shawl for visiting churches and monasteries.

What Men Should Wear in Romania? - (Click to expand)

Below is a sample Men’s clothing list. (All items link to Amazon.com for your convenience).

Similar to women, men will need to dress for the seasons with lighter options in the summer and spring, thicker jackets and boots in the winter, and rainwear year-round. Most men will not be overly formal in Romania, but Europe has a tendency to elevate their fashion sense as compared to the casualty embraced by most Americans. Bring some nicer options along with shirts, shorts, pants, and comfortable walking shoes.

Packing for the Seasons in Romania

SPRING – March, April, May:

Spring will begin to warm up but can still be a little bit unpredictable when it comes to weather. Expect rain and cool temperatures. Make sure you have a rain jacket, long pants, rain boots, or waterproof shoes, and always dress in layers.

SUMMER – June, July, August:

Summer is the best time to visit Romania. It is warm, reaching 28 degrees C (82 degrees F). It’s important to dress in layers, lightweight clothes, comfortable sneakers, and a sweater or jacket for evenings as it cools off.

FALL – September, October, November:

The rainy season starts at the end of September and the weather starts to cool off quite a bit. Romania will typically see its first snowfall at the end of October and November. Make sure to dress in layers and have sweaters, jeans, closed shoes, and warm jackets on hand.

WINTER – December, January, February:

Winter is quite cold in Romania so you will need to have a heavy jacket, boots, and gloves. Snowfall is common and the ground is snow-covered throughout the winter months. Dress in warm layers, winter coat, hat, gloves, and insulated shoes or boots.

How to dress for activities in Romania? – (Click to expand)

There are all kinds of activities to participate in while in Romania. There is something different for all kinds of tastes. Skiing in the winter, water parks, hiking, wineries, and a vast nightlife, are only a few of the things that you can take part in while there. You’ll want to make sure you have dressed appropriately for whatever activity you are interested in.

Nightlife: Romanian people love to dress up.

Women typically wear dresses, heels, shawls, and full makeup when they go out on the town. Don’t show up in jeans and tennis shoes, you will definitely stand out for all the wrong reasons!

Men will wear dress pants and even a suit jacket when they are out on the town. Make sure to have at least nice pants and a button-down shirt if you are hitting the club scene.

Tourist attractions: For the most part, casual attire is perfect for tourist attractions for both men and women. A shirt, sweatshirt, pants or shorts, comfortable shoes, and a neck wallet are perfect for a day of touring the city.

Hiking: If you are going for a hike make sure to wear hiking pants or shorts, a quick-drying top, hiking shoes, or boots.

What NOT to Bring to Romania

1.DON'T BRING Bulky Books
Don’t bring books on your trip. If you plan to take some time for yourself to read, make sure to grab a Kindle instead. It has lots of options for reading material and is a lot less bulky than bringing heavy books along with you on your trip.
2.DON'T PACK Unnecessary Valuables
Don’t bring unnecessary valuables such as jewelry, or expensive merchandise, or electronics. These items can be easily lost, broken, or make a target for petty theft.
3.DON'T BRING Too Many Clothes
Don’t bring too many clothes! Overpacking can make for long and tedious travel when walking through airports or getting from the airport to your final destination. Only pack what you need to make the traveling part of your trip less stressful.
4.DON'T TAKE Gear You Won’t Use
Don’t pack gear you won’t use. Bringing lots of camera equipment or heavy and bulky items will definitely weigh you down and also attract attention from petty thieves.
5.DON'T BRING a Bath Towel
Packing a bulky bath towel takes up a ton of space. And when it becomes wet, it will weigh you down. Consider taking a lightweight, quick-dry towel that you can easily fold up and throw in your pack.
6.DON'T BRING Lots of cash
Carrying lots of cash is never a great idea. It makes you an easy target for theft no matter where you are. Carry only what you need and opt for a credit card that will work in other countries. Make sure to check with your bank before you leave to ensure that it can be used in Romania.

What NOT to Wear in Romania? – (Click to expand)

Make sure to avoid clothing that looks touristy. Wearing American flags, fanny packs, and Hawaiian shirts can make you a target for petty theft. Make sure to dress for the occasion. Don’t wear shoes with heels while touring Romania as it will make for possible injury while walking down the many cobblestone streets throughout the country.
Don’t bring small clutch purses as those can be easily snatched by petty thieves. Make sure to wear a neck wallet to ensure your personal items stay safe.

FAQs about traveling to Romania

1. What is the local currency in Romania?
The local currency in Romania is the leu, or lei (plural). Don’t go to exchange your money at the airport, you will pay very high fees. It’s best to use your credit card at a cash machine and take money out that way. Make sure to call your bank and let them know you will be traveling in another country so they don’t shut down your credit card access while you are in another country!
2. What language is spoken in Romania?
The official language of Romania is Romanian. It’s spoken by 89% of the population. Many people speak Italian as there is a large population of Romanians who work in Italy.
3. How can I communicate with the local people?
English is very well-spoken and understood in Romania, especially by the younger generations. Romanians are some of the best English speakers in the world so you shouldn’t have a problem communicating while you are there. But always make sure to have a translation tool downloaded on your phone to make communication easier.
4. What is the weather like in Romania?
The weather in Romania is very similar to the Upper Mid-West of the United States. It has four seasons, cold winters and warm summers.
5. What is the best time of year to visit Romania?
The best time to visit Romania is in the summer, although there are still plenty of destinations to visit in any season.
6. How do I get around Romania?
The best way to travel in Romania is to ask the front desk of the hotel you are staying at to call you a taxi or an Uber. They have contacts that they trust and will help you to get to where you would like to go. There are buses and trains in Romania but they are difficult to navigate so I wouldn’t suggest it unless you have to travel a far distance.
7. What are the best things to see in Romania?
Some of the most popular sites to see are in Bucharest. In Old Town, there are lots of cafes, restaurants, and bars that have popped up recently. Another thing to check out is Revolution Square where you can find out some of Romania’s dark history. If there is one place to get a guided tour, it’s here. Transylvania, home of Braun Castle, aka Dracula’s Castle, is a must-see while in Romania. There are many Monasteries, Castles, and Parks scattered throughout the country. Make sure to see at least one of each.

See all Romanian attractions at GetYourGuide.com ➜
8. What is the nightlife like in Romania?
Romania is known for its nightlife. Most clubs open around midnight and don’t close until the last person has danced his way to bed. There are plenty of other things to do in Romania, but if you love the club scene, you’re bound for an unforgettable night!
9. Should I tip?
The standard tipping rate is about 5-10% for a table fee. Which is about 5 lei or the equivalent of $1 USD. Keep in mind that service in Romania is different than in the US. They are typically shorter and to the point. It doesn’t mean they are giving bad service, it’s just that their service culture is different than in the US. Remember that leaving a little more than average is always appreciated.
10. What is the local food like?
The food in Romania is a bit heavier and consists of meaty dishes with vegetables and potatoes as side dishes. Polenta, cabbage rolls, grilled minced meat, tripe soup, and sweetbreads are some of the traditional menu items you will see. Don’t forget to start your meal off with an aperitif of Polenka. Which is a traditional plum brandy believed to help with the digestion of the food you will eat.

About the Author

What to Pack for Romania – 23 Essentials

1. Universal Power Adapter

2. Lipstick-Sized Portable Charger

3. Virtual Private Network (VPN)

4. Windproof Travel Umbrella

5. Water Bottle with Built-in Filter

6. Travel Insurance for Romania

7. Neck Wallet

8. Lightweight Sweater

9. Packing Cubes

10. TSA-Approved Luggage Locks

11. Quick-Dry Travel Towel

12. Hanging Toiletry Bag

13. Romania eSIM Data Service (Avoid Roaming Fees!)

14. Cooling Towels

15. Solid Shampoo

16. Theft-Proof Backpack

17. Jet Lag Relief

18. Activated Charcoal

19. Tickets to Top Romania Attractions

20. Shawl or Scarf

21. Luggage Straps

22. Packable “Just in Case” Bag

23. Waterproof Shoe Bags

Other Romania Packing List Items Not to Forget

What to Wear in Romania

Packing for the Seasons in Romania

SPRING – March, April, May:

SUMMER – June, July, August:

FALL – September, October, November:

WINTER – December, January, February:

What NOT to Bring to Romania

1.DON'T BRING Bulky Books

2.DON'T PACK Unnecessary Valuables

3.DON'T BRING Too Many Clothes

4.DON'T TAKE Gear You Won’t Use

5.DON'T BRING a Bath Towel

6.DON'T BRING Lots of cash

FAQs about traveling to Romania

1. What is the local currency in Romania?

2. What language is spoken in Romania?

3. How can I communicate with the local people?

4. What is the weather like in Romania?

5. What is the best time of year to visit Romania?

6. How do I get around Romania?

7. What are the best things to see in Romania?

8. What is the nightlife like in Romania?

9. Should I tip?

10. What is the local food like?

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