The Essentials for Any Gay Holiday Packing List
Start with the basics. These are the non-negotiables for any trip, whether it’s a city break, beach retreat, or party island.
- Passport and copies
- Travel insurance documents
- Prescription meds (with a copy of the prescription)
- Travel-sized toiletries
- Reusable water bottle
- Plug adapters
- Phone and charger (portable charger too)
- Debit/credit cards and emergency cash
Tip: Keep digital copies of everything in your email or cloud.
LGBT+ Travel Must-Haves
A gay holiday is more than a getaway. You’re likely heading somewhere that hosts queer nightlife, Pride events, or beaches where self-expression is part of the fun. Here are items that belong in every LGBT+ traveller’s bag:
- Rainbow accessories for Pride events
- Pre-planned outfits for themed parties (white night, leather night, etc.)
- Condoms and lube (always pack more than you think you'll need)
- Prep or medication, if applicable
- Travel-sized personal hygiene items
- Statement sunglasses
- Travel fan (especially for clubs or hot destinations)
- Glitter or makeup (if part of your look)
- Scented body spray for freshening up on the go
Each of these has been packed (or forgotten) by someone on a gay holiday. Trust us.
or additional safety advice on travelling as an LGBT+ person,
Stonewall UK shares helpful tips you might want to read before you go.
Gay Holiday Packing for the Beach
Going tropical? Beach holidays bring their own needs. And it’s not just about packing speedos—though we’ll get to that.
- Multiple swimsuits or trunks
- Waterproof bag for valuables
- A strong SPF (min. 30)
- After-sun lotion or aloe
- Sunglasses with UV protection
- Flip flops and sliders
- Beach towel or quick-dry towel
- Lightweight beach cover-up or kimono
Want to look good and feel comfortable? Pack swimwear that fits your body and your vibe. If you’re staying at a gay beach resort, you might want options ranging from modest to cheeky.
Gay Holiday Packing for the City
City breaks often combine nightlife, sightseeing, and spontaneous moments. What you pack should move from day to night with ease.
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Day outfit: stylish but casual
- Night outfit: something with flair
- Jacket or blazer for evenings
- Versatile trousers or jeans
- Phone holder or secure bag for clubs
Cities like Berlin, Barcelona or Amsterdam are perfect examples. You’ll want outfits that reflect the city’s mood and your own identity.
How Wide Awake Holidays Protects You
When you book your trip with Wide Awake Holidays, you’re booking with confidence. We’re a UK-based, gay-owned travel company, fully protected through Protected Trust Services and covered under the ATOL scheme. Every tailor-made holiday comes with Supplier Failure Insurance and Scheduled Airline Failure Insurance.
That means:
- Your money is held in a secure trust account
- You’re protected against airline or supplier collapse
- You get personalised help if anything goes wrong
We don’t just book your trip—we look after it. From the moment you enquire until you’re home again.
Destination Inspiration: What to Pack and What to Expect
Gay Holiday Packing for Sitges, Spain
- Linen shirts
- Tailored shorts
- Smart sandals
- Swimwear for gay beaches like Playa de la Bassa Rodona
- Something dressy for the gay bars
How Gay Friendly is Spain?
- Legalisation of homosexuality: 1979
- Same-sex marriage: Legal since 2005
- Anti-discrimination laws: Yes, nationwide
- Workplace protections: Yes
- Equal age of consent: Yes
- Public opinion: Broadly positive and welcoming
Gay Holiday Packing for Mykonos, Greece
- Designer swimwear
- Flowy shirts or mesh tops
- Evening looks for Jackie O' or Babylon
- Sandals that can handle cobbled streets
- Large tote or beach bag
How Gay Friendly is Greece?
- Legalisation of homosexuality: 1951
- Civil partnerships: Yes (marriage not yet legal)
- Anti-discrimination laws: Yes
- Workplace protections: Yes
- Equal age of consent: Yes
- Public opinion: Progressive in tourist areas
Gay Holiday Packing for Cape Town, South Africa
- Safari-friendly clothing
- Layers for changing weather
- Beachwear for Clifton 3rd Beach
- Hiking gear for Table Mountain
- Stylish outfits for De Waterkant nightlife
How Gay Friendly is South Africa?
- Legalisation of homosexuality: 1998
- Same-sex marriage: Legal since 2006
- Anti-discrimination laws: Yes (constitutional)
- Workplace protections: Yes
- Equal age of consent: Yes
- Public opinion: Varies, but very open in cities
Gay Holiday Packing for Thailand
- Breathable clothes
- Easy shoes for temples
- Swimwear for beach clubs
- Rooftop-ready outfits
- Mosquito repellent
How Gay Friendly is Thailand?
- Legalisation of homosexuality: 1956
- Marriage: Not legal yet, civil partnerships advancing
- Anti-discrimination laws: Yes
- Workplace protections: Yes
- Equal age of consent: Yes
- Public opinion: Welcoming in tourist zones
Gay Holiday Packing for Tel Aviv, Israel
- Outfits for Hilton Beach
- Clubwear for all-night parties
- Modest wear for religious sites
- Cooling spray or rehydration tablets
How Gay Friendly is Israel?
- Legalisation of homosexuality: 1988
- Same-sex marriage: Not legal, foreign marriages recognised
- Anti-discrimination laws: Yes
- Workplace protections: Yes
- Equal age of consent: Yes
- Public opinion: Very progressive in Tel Aviv
Gay Holiday Packing for Montreal, Canada
- Layers for the weather
- Day-to-night wear
- Casual shoes for walking
- Looks for the Gay Village
How Gay Friendly is Canada?
- Legalisation of homosexuality: 1969
- Same-sex marriage: Legal since 2005
- Anti-discrimination laws: Yes
- Workplace protections: Yes
- Equal age of consent: Yes
- Public opinion: Highly supportive
Gay Holiday Packing for Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
- Swimwear for Los Muertos Beach
- Light shirts and shorts
- Sandals
- Sun hat
How Gay Friendly is Mexico?
- Legalisation of homosexuality: 1871
- Same-sex marriage: Legal in all states (since 2022)
- Anti-discrimination laws: Yes
- Workplace protections: Yes
- Equal age of consent: Yes
- Public opinion: Warm and open in LGBT+ hubs
Seasonal Gay Holiday Packing Tips
Summer:
- Linens
- SPF
- Light shoes
- After-sun products
Winter:
- Layers
- Boots
- Waterproof coat
- Gloves and thermals
Packing for a Gay Cruise
- Themed night outfits
- Swimwear and lounge clothes
- Dinner outfit
- Cabin extras: hooks, laundry soap, power strip
- Sea sickness meds
Don’t Forget
- Travel journal
- Portable charger
- Health kit
- Emergency contacts list
- Something fun and bold
Final Tips
- Know your destination's dress code
- Pack with confidence
- Take pride in every outfit
- Travel light but prepared
Why Book with Wide Awake Holidays?
We understand that sometimes gay-friendly is not friendly enough. We’re gay-owned, UK-based, and here to make your holiday completely yours. Whether it’s your first trip away or your tenth cruise, we tailor everything around what you want.
From ATOL protection to personal service, we go the extra mile so you can feel free, safe, and celebrated wherever you go.
So go ahead. Dream it. Pack it. Then call us on 01495 400947 or use our holiday enquiry form. We’ll take care of the rest.
