What should be included in an LGBT Packing Guide for first-time gay travellers?

Your packing list should include versatile clothing, sun protection, travel documents, Pride accessories (if you want to show your identity), and anything that helps you feel confident and safe. Don’t forget essentials like chargers and travel insurance documents.

Is it safe to pack Pride flags or rainbow items when travelling abroad?

In most LGBT-friendly destinations, yes. But in places with conservative laws or attitudes, it's better to pack discreetly and wear items when it feels safe. We can advise on what’s appropriate for your destination.

Can Wide Awake Holidays help me decide what to pack for a specific destination?

Absolutely. As part of our personal travel service, we tailor recommendations for both your itinerary and your suitcase. We’ll make sure you're ready for everything from beach clubs to temple visits.

How do I know which destinations are safe for LGBT+ travellers?

This LGBT Packing Guide includes safety summaries for popular destinations, and when you book with us, we’ll give you up-to-date guidance based on current legal rights, protections, and public attitudes.

What clothing should I pack for LGBT-friendly beach destinations?

Think lightweight layers, bold swimwear, breathable fabrics, and something dressy for evening fun. In places like Sitges or Mykonos, you can be as expressive as you like.

Are there any LGBT-exclusive hotels you recommend?

Yes—places like Elysium Hotel in Mykonos and select resorts in Sitges cater specifically to gay guests. We’ll always highlight these in your quote and help you choose what suits your vibe.

How do travel protections work if I’m not in the UK?

Even if you’re based in the US or another country, we can build your trip with full financial protection through Protected Trust Services and include relevant insurances in your booking.

Is this LGBT Packing Guide useful for solo travellers?

Yes. In fact, solo travellers often find packing trickier. We’ve built this guide to cover a variety of travel styles—including solo city breaks and relaxing beach escapes.

What should I pack if I’m attending a Pride event abroad?

Pride gear, comfortable shoes, a reusable water bottle, sun cream, and ID. Also bring something light to throw on later in the evening, and always carry your hotel address.

Why should I book my trip through Wide Awake Holidays?

We’re gay-owned, UK-based, and trusted by hundreds of travellers. Our LGBT Packing Guide is just the beginning—we’ll personalise every part of your journey and make sure you’re safe, celebrated, and sorted.

LGBT Packing Guide: What to Pack for Summer Travel

Heading off on a summer adventure should feel exciting, not overwhelming. Whether you’re gearing up for your first ever gay holiday or you’re a seasoned traveller with a pride flag in every pocket, having the right packing strategy makes all the difference. This LGBT Packing Guide is here to help you get it right every time.

From beachside cocktails in Sitges to city pride parades in San Francisco, every LGBT+ traveller deserves to feel confident, prepared, and unapologetically themselves—wherever they go. And yes, what you pack matters more than you think.

Why? Because packing isn’t just about clothes. It’s about safety. It’s about identity. And, sometimes, it’s about not forgetting that fourth pair of swim shorts you didn’t know you needed until you landed in Mykonos.

So, what exactly should go into your suitcase this summer? That’s where we come in. We’ve broken it down into essentials, location-specific advice, and travel tips that reflect both your personal style and your right to be you.

This LGBT Packing Guide is built with care, experience, and the insight of a gay-owned travel company that knows that “gay-friendly” isn’t always friendly enough. Whether you’re travelling from the UK, the United States, or further afield, Wide Awake Holidays is here to help you do it right.

Packing Essentials for Every LGBT+ Traveller

Let’s start with the basics. No matter where your summer takes you, these are the essentials every LGBT+ traveller should pack.

Clothing: Think Smart, Pack Light

You don’t need your entire wardrobe. A few well-chosen outfits will cover almost every occasion.

Daywear: Comfortable T-shirts, shorts, and linen shirts are your go-to for exploring.
Swimwear: Bring at least two pairs—so you’re not putting on damp trunks after a dip.
Eveningwear: Think smart-casual. A collared shirt or fitted polo works wonders.
Pride-ready pieces: A rainbow accessory or bold statement piece makes it easy to show your colours when it feels safe and right.

Always pack something you feel amazing in.

Toiletries and Grooming

Stay fresh and photo-ready with your regular routine:

Travel-sized versions of your skincare and hair products
Beard trimmer or razor
Fragrance that makes you feel confident
Sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher, reef-safe if you’re heading to the beach)

While you want to pack light, don’t skimp on skincare—it’s part of self-care.

Travel Documents and Health Items

Keeping these close and protected is non-negotiable:

Passport and printed copies
Travel insurance documents
Vaccination certificates (COVID-19 or destination-specific)
Prescriptions in original packaging

It’s also worth checking whether any medications are restricted in your destination. A quick call to your travel advisor (like us) can help with that.

LGBT+ Travel Extras

Here’s what you might not have thought of, but absolutely should include:

Small Pride flag or bandana (can double as a bag tag or beach towel marker)
Portable phone charger (your lifeline abroad)
Emergency contacts card (in case your phone dies)
Lubricant and protection (yes, always—pack it confidently)
Discreet jewellery storage (for items you might not wear in public in conservative regions)

Packing these with confidence isn’t just about being prepared—it’s about knowing your travel experience is yours to own.

Top Destinations in Our LGBT Packing Guide for Summer Travel

Where you're headed plays a big part in what you pack. Sun-soaked beaches call for breezy clothes and bold swimwear. More conservative destinations might require thoughtful layering and caution. This section of the LGBT Packing Guide highlights five of the most popular summer destinations for LGBT+ travellers—with tailored packing tips, hotel options, and an honest look at how gay friendly each country is.

Packing Tips for Spain:

Lightweight cottons and linens (it gets hot!)
Something white for beach parties
Bold swimwear for the gay beaches
A fan—yes, really. It’s a Sitges staple and fashion statement

Hotel Suggestion: Hotel Medium Sitges Park

This centrally located hotel combines Catalan charm with stylish modern interiors and a pool that’s just right for post-beach cool-downs.

If you're interested in this hotel, ask us about our current Sitges summer package deals.

How Gay Friendly is Spain?

Legal Status: Homosexuality has been legal since 1979.
Marriage Equality: Legal since 2005.
Anti-Discrimination Laws: Yes, based on sexual orientation and gender identity.
Employment Protections: Yes.
Equal Age of Consent: Yes.
Public Attitudes: Widely accepting—especially in cities and coastal regions. Sitges is a gay haven.

Packing Tips for Greece:

Smart-casual evening wear (think flowy shirts and sandals)
Designer sunglasses (it’s that kind of place)
Light cover-up for ferry rides or religious sites
A power adapter (Greece uses European Type C and F plugs)

Hotel Suggestion: Elysium Hotel Mykonos (Exclusively Gay)

This hilltop property is famous for its sunset drag shows and panoramic views of the Aegean. It’s historically been an exclusively gay hotel and a must for first-timers.

Ask us about current offers at Elysium—it books out fast during summer.

How Gay Friendly is Greece?

Legal Status: Homosexuality has been legal since 1951.
Marriage Equality: Civil partnerships are allowed; same-sex marriage legalised in 2024.
Anti-Discrimination Laws: Yes, in employment and services.
Employment Protections: Yes.
Equal Age of Consent: Yes.
Public Attitudes: Mixed. Mykonos and Athens are very open. Rural areas are more conservative, so discretion is advised.

Packing Tips for the US:

Pride gear if you’re heading to festivals
A hoodie or jacket (air conditioning is fierce indoors)
ID at all times—it’s required for club entry
Health insurance card or travel cover printout

Hotel Suggestion: The Standard, West Hollywood (Los Angeles)

A cultural hotspot with rooftop pool parties and LGBTQ+ friendly staff in the heart of gay LA.

Reach out for our latest US city break packages that include flights and hotels.

How Gay Friendly is the USA?

Legal Status: Legal nationwide since 2003.
Marriage Equality: Legal nationwide since 2015.
Anti-Discrimination Laws: Federal laws exist, but protections vary by state.
Employment Protections: Yes, federally, but inconsistently enforced in some regions.
Equal Age of Consent: Yes.
Public Attitudes: Varies by region. Cities like New York, San Francisco, and LA are strongly inclusive.

Packing Tips for Portugal:

Beachwear with UV protection
Light jacket for breezy evenings
Party clothes if you’re visiting during Lisbon Pride
Sensible shoes for cobbled streets

Hotel Suggestion: My Story Hotel Figueira, Lisbon

A chic hotel close to the gay bars in Bairro Alto. Offers comfort and style within walking distance of everything.

Let us know if you'd like us to include this hotel in a tailor-made Lisbon Pride package.

How Gay Friendly is Portugal?

Legal Status: Homosexuality decriminalised in 1982.
Marriage Equality: Legal since 2010.
Anti-Discrimination Laws: Yes, strong protections in place.
Employment Protections: Yes.
Equal Age of Consent: Yes.
Public Attitudes: Very progressive, particularly in Lisbon and Porto.

Packing Tips for Thailand:

Lightweight, sweat-wicking fabrics
Sarong or light towel for beach hopping
Reef-safe sunscreen
Respectful clothing for temples (cover shoulders and knees)

Hotel Suggestion: The Nap Patong, Phuket

LGBT-friendly, stylish, and close to the vibrant nightlife of Paradise Complex.

This hotel is available as part of our summer Thai escape package—ask us for details.

How Gay Friendly is Thailand?

Legal Status: Legal since 1956.
Marriage Equality: Civil unions available; marriage equality bill passed in 2024, pending implementation.
Anti-Discrimination Laws: Yes.
Employment Protections: Partial; legal framework is developing.
Equal Age of Consent: Yes.
Public Attitudes: Generally welcoming, especially in tourist hotspots like Phuket.

For a broader view of global LGBT+ rights, the Stonewall Equality Map is a helpful resource.

Beyond the Basics: LGBT Packing Guide Add-Ons You’ll Actually Use

So, you've got the essentials packed. Clothes? Sorted. Docs? Ready. But here’s the thing—some of the most useful items in your suitcase aren’t obvious until you’ve travelled without them.

This section of the LGBT Packing Guide goes beyond the basics. These are the extras that save the day, add joy, and make you feel completely at ease while you explore the world. Some are about convenience. Others are about identity. All are worth considering.

Smart Packing Additions

Travel laundry bag – Keep clean and used clothes separate with a simple drawstring bag.
Collapsible tote or backpack – Useful for beach days, pride parades, or last-minute shopping.
Silicone travel bottles – Decant your favourite body wash, lube, or conditioner.
Shoe bags – Stop your soles from soiling your shirts.
Luggage scale – Avoid fees on the way home when your bags get suspiciously heavier.

These small things make a big difference.

Tech You’ll Thank Yourself For

Multi-device charger – If you're travelling with a partner or group, charge everything at once.
Noise-cancelling earbuds – Block out snoring, crying babies, or a boring inflight movie.
Universal plug adaptor – Different countries, different sockets. One good adaptor covers you everywhere.
Bluetooth tracker (e.g. AirTag) – Place one in your suitcase in case it goes missing at baggage claim.
E-reader or tablet – Great for long flights, lazy pool days, or private screen time with downloaded shows.

Remember: while tech is helpful, always keep a paper copy of your travel documents.

For Health and Comfort

Mini first aid kit – Include plasters, painkillers, antihistamines, and rehydration tablets.
Electrolyte sachets – Helpful if you’re drinking, sunbathing, or adjusting to a new climate.
Talcum powder or anti-chafe balm – Especially useful in tropical or sweaty conditions.
Lip balm with SPF – Burnt lips are no one’s idea of sexy.
Reusable water bottle – Many airports and cities now encourage plastic-free travel.

These aren’t just nice-to-haves—they’re part of travelling smart.

Confidence and Identity Items

Sometimes it’s the little things that help you feel rooted in your identity. That’s why we encourage every LGBT+ traveller to consider packing:

A journal or travel diary – Write down moments that moved you, sights you loved, or thoughts you had while exploring a place where you felt truly yourself.
Favourite scent or cologne – A familiar fragrance can centre you and lift your mood.
Books by queer authors – Representation matters, even in your reading material.
Photo of someone you love – Travel can be emotional. A reminder of home brings comfort.
Accessories that express your identity – Even if you only wear them in your hotel room, they’re still yours.

It’s not about showing off—it’s about showing up as you. Wherever you go.

A Note for Gender Diverse Travellers

Packing can be particularly complex for gender diverse, trans, and non-binary travellers. At Wide Awake Holidays, we see you—and we’ve helped clients all over the world travel safely and comfortably while staying true to themselves.

When planning your trip, consider:

Pack for your gender presentation, not the destination’s expectation—but keep options available for comfort or safety.
Bring extra binders, bras, tucking garments, or make-up supplies—some products may not be easy to replace abroad.
Carry a laminated card explaining any medical devices (like prosthetics or compression wear) if you're concerned about security checks.
Travel with your name and gender marker documents (including a doctor’s note if travelling under a different name than your ID).

Your identity is valid. Your journey matters.

We’ll always help you prepare in a way that’s respectful, personal, and empowering.

Group Travel? Pack Together

If you’re travelling with friends or a partner, there are ways to share the load:

Rotate who brings shared items (like hair straighteners or Bluetooth speakers)
Agree on a dress code or theme night and plan accordingly
Bring group first aid and tech charging solutions
Share sun cream—it saves space and money

Packing as a team builds excitement before you’ve even left the house.

The Goal Is Simple

To pack for who you are. To pack for what you need. To pack without apology.

This LGBT Packing Guide isn’t about ticking boxes—it’s about travelling lighter in every sense of the word. Physically. Emotionally. Even spiritually, if you’re into that.

Add these items to your summer suitcase, and your holiday won’t just be easier—it’ll be yours.

Your Travel Protections with Wide Awake Holidays

When you book your trip through Wide Awake Holidays, you're not just securing flights and hotels. You're safeguarding your entire experience.

We’re proud to be a member of Protected Trust Services (PTS) and hold an ATOL licence. That means your money is financially protected at every stage—from your initial deposit to your return home. You won’t be left out of pocket if something changes unexpectedly.

Every tailor-made holiday you book with us includes:

Supplier Failure Insurance, which protects you if a hotel or supplier goes bust before or during your trip.
Scheduled Airline Failure Insurance, so you're covered if your airline ceases trading.
Full ATOL protection for flight-inclusive holidays booked in the UK.
Full PTS protection for all bookings, whether you're based in the UK, USA, or beyond.

When you book with us, you’re not going through a faceless booking engine or call centre. You get real human support—before, during, and after your holiday. That matters more than ever when you're travelling as part of the LGBT+ community and want reassurance that your safety, wellbeing, and money are all taken seriously.

And if you're not based in the UK? No problem. We work with international customers regularly and tailor our protection policies to suit. Whether you’re in London, Manchester, New York, or Miami, your holiday is protected with us.

Tailoring Your Trip to Match You

Every traveller is different. Some want pool parties, others want peace and quiet. Some are flying solo, others are bringing the whole queer family. The key to great summer travel isn’t just packing smart—it’s building a trip that fits your energy, interests, and identity.

At Wide Awake Holidays, we don’t do off-the-shelf trips. Your holiday is created around your preferences:

Want to travel with other LGBT+ couples? We’ll recommend gay group tours that welcome diversity with open arms.
Prefer to travel discreetly? We’ll suggest destinations and hotels where privacy and respect come first.
Looking for romance? We know the most stunning sunset dinner spots in Santorini, Seychelles, and beyond.
Planning your first ever gay holiday? We’ll help you every step of the way and never make assumptions.

Even if you’re not entirely sure where to go, we’ll guide you through destinations that match your style. We can also factor in:

Pride events you might want to attend
Gay-owned and operated properties
Hotel and airline loyalty programmes
Special access or mobility needs
Solo-friendly options that feel welcoming, not isolating

We’ll even help you figure out your packing list based on what you’ll be doing. Hiking? You’ll need breathable, durable kit. Beach lounging? We’ll remind you to pack that hat. Exploring nightlife? Let’s get those dancing shoes ready.

The LGBT Packing Guide you’re reading now is just the start. Working with us means you’re not alone in figuring out where to go or what to take. We’re travellers too—and we know what makes a holiday truly memorable.

What You Packing?

Packing is personal. And for LGBT+ travellers, it’s political too. Every item in your suitcase is a small declaration of who you are and how you show up in the world. That’s why this LGBT Packing Guide is more than a checklist—it’s a toolkit for confidence.

Whether it’s your first holiday with your partner, a solo escape to recharge, or a full-throttle pride pilgrimage, travelling as your whole self should feel easy. And when you book with Wide Awake Holidays, it can be.

We know that “gay-friendly” isn’t always enough. That’s why we work only with suppliers and destinations we trust—places that won’t just tolerate you, but celebrate you. And we make sure your trip is protected, personal, and perfectly packed from start to finish.

So if you’re ready to plan your next summer getaway, let’s do it together.

Call us on 01495 400947 or use our holiday enquiry form today. We’ll help you pack it, plan it, and live it—your way.

What should be included in an LGBT Packing Guide for first-time gay travellers?
Your packing list should include versatile clothing, sun protection, travel documents, Pride accessories (if you want to show your identity), and anything that helps you feel confident and safe. Don’t forget essentials like chargers and travel insurance documents.
Is it safe to pack Pride flags or rainbow items when travelling abroad?
In most LGBT-friendly destinations, yes. But in places with conservative laws or attitudes, it's better to pack discreetly and wear items when it feels safe. We can advise on what’s appropriate for your destination.
Can Wide Awake Holidays help me decide what to pack for a specific destination?
Absolutely. As part of our personal travel service, we tailor recommendations for both your itinerary and your suitcase. We’ll make sure you're ready for everything from beach clubs to temple visits.
How do I know which destinations are safe for LGBT+ travellers?
This LGBT Packing Guide includes safety summaries for popular destinations, and when you book with us, we’ll give you up-to-date guidance based on current legal rights, protections, and public attitudes.
What clothing should I pack for LGBT-friendly beach destinations?
Think lightweight layers, bold swimwear, breathable fabrics, and something dressy for evening fun. In places like Sitges or Mykonos, you can be as expressive as you like.
Are there any LGBT-exclusive hotels you recommend?
Yes—places like Elysium Hotel in Mykonos and select resorts in Sitges cater specifically to gay guests. We’ll always highlight these in your quote and help you choose what suits your vibe.
How do travel protections work if I’m not in the UK?
Even if you’re based in the US or another country, we can build your trip with full financial protection through Protected Trust Services and include relevant insurances in your booking.
Is this LGBT Packing Guide useful for solo travellers?
Yes. In fact, solo travellers often find packing trickier. We’ve built this guide to cover a variety of travel styles—including solo city breaks and relaxing beach escapes.
What should I pack if I’m attending a Pride event abroad?
Pride gear, comfortable shoes, a reusable water bottle, sun cream, and ID. Also bring something light to throw on later in the evening, and always carry your hotel address.
Why should I book my trip through Wide Awake Holidays?
We’re gay-owned, UK-based, and trusted by hundreds of travellers. Our LGBT Packing Guide is just the beginning—we’ll personalise every part of your journey and make sure you’re safe, celebrated, and sorted.