Packing
- Packing Considerations
- Consider the Season: For your summer adventures in Prague, think light and breathable! Expect average daytime temperatures in the pleasant 70s F but you can also expect heat waves with temperatures attacking 90s F. Pack comfortable cotton or linen shirts, shorts or skirts, and a light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings as you sip a drink at a beer garden. As autumn arrives, layers become your best friend. The average temperatures revolve around 61° F and if you are lucky, you can experience the so-called Indian Summer. For the colder days include long-sleeved shirts, sweaters, a waterproof and windproof jacket, and comfortable trousers or jeans. You might also want to pack a scarf and gloves for those crisp autumn days and evenings.
- Walking Shoes: Prague is an incredibly walkable city with quite a compact historical center and you'll find that many of its most charming sights are best explored on foot. Many of Prague's historic streets are paved with cobblestones, which can sometimes be uneven. Therefore, comfortable and supportive walking shoes with good traction are an absolute must.
- Casual Clothing: Prevailing clothing style in the Czech republic leans towards casual and even sporty. Comfort and practicality seem to be key, with locals often opting for relaxed jeans, comfortable sneakers, and functional outerwear. While dressing up is certainly appropriate for special occasions like theater performances or upscale dining, for most sightseeing and daily activities, embracing a casual and sporty look will allow you to blend right in with the easygoing atmosphere of the city.
- Sportswear: Be sure to pack suitable sportswear if you anticipate hitting the gym. Also, if you're interested in experiencing Prague's riverside beaches and perhaps trying some watersports on the Vltava, or if you'd like to unwind with a yoga class, make sure to include your athletic wear and swimwear!
- Luggage: Packing light for your Prague adventure is easy, self-service washing and drying machines are available at the building where your apartments are situated. This means you can bring fewer items and easily refresh your clothes as needed. For any garments requiring special care, dry cleaning services are readily available throughout Prague, offering a practical solution for maintaining your wardrobe during your stay.
- Non-Obvious Things to Pack
- Respectful Attire: When visiting churches in Prague, it's appreciated to dress respectfully. Shoulders should be covered, and it's best to avoid very short skirts or shorts, the knees should be covered. For women visiting churches, carrying a light scarf can be a thoughtful way to easily cover shoulders and cleavage, showing respect within these sacred spaces. Similarly, for theater performances, while a strict formal dress code isn't always enforced, smart casual attire is generally recommended as a sign of respect for the performers and the occasion. At the Prague State Opera House, the custodians closely monitor the attire of attendees.
- Travel Adapter: The power plugs and sockets primarily used in the Czech Republic are of Type E. This type, also known as the "French type," has two round pins and a hole for the socket's male earthing pin. While Type E is the most common, Type C plugs (Europlugs), which have two round pins and no grounding, can also be used in Type E sockets. Make sure to pack a travel adapter in order to physically fit your plug into the Czech socket.
- Voltage Converter: In the Czech Republic, the standard voltage is 230V. If your devices are not designed to handle 230V, you may also need a voltage converter or transformer to prevent damage. Many modern electronic devices like laptops, phones, and tablets are dual-voltage (usually indicated on the power supply as "100-240V"), meaning they will only require a plug adapter. However, it's crucial to check the voltage rating of your appliances before plugging them in. High-power appliances like hair dryers might need a voltage converter.
- Small Umbrella: Given Prague's climate, packing a compact umbrella is a wise move. You'll likely encounter some rainy days throughout the year. During the summer, keep an eye out for refreshing summer thunderstorms that often follow a heatwave, providing a welcome break and clearing the air. As autumn arrives, rainy days become a more frequent occurrence.
- Medications: Make sure to bring an ample supply of any prescription or over-the-counter medications you take regularly. Bring a doctor's note for prescriptions in case you need refills.