Little things to know about Spain and Portugal before packing

At Incantato Tours, we strive for you to enjoy every single step of your way. Here you have some info on little things you might want to know about Spain before getting on the plane. Maybe these tips are able to help you enjoy the trip better!

We have a saying that goes:
“one just-in-case is worth more than a hundred if-I-had-known”

- It is customary to always have some kind of picture ID. You can use your passport or your driver's license. It is a good idea to have a photocopy of your passport to be kept with the rest of your valuables.
- In order to use a credit card, you will need to activate it and get a pin number before coming. Let your bank know that you will be using it abroad so that the card will not get blocked!
- American Express credit cards are not accepted in many places.
- Any kind of Traveler Checks are not accepted. If they are, it can become very expensive.
- Please click here for more info on money matters.
- Food and clothing are generally more expensive in Spain than in the USA. Portugal is cheaper than Spain for most things.
- It is forbidden to smoke in all public places.
- Please bring a photocopy of your prescriptions in case you need medication. This is a just-in-case! The active ingredient is good to know too, as we do not always have the same medicines (though mostly).
- Old towns mean cobblestones and hilly streets, pedestrian areas, steps, stairs... Happy feet help to have a happy tour. Please bring flat, comfortable shoes.
- Flip-flops are definitely not comfortable in our old towns, but they might be in the hotels. We do not walk around barefoot! Remember that March maybe rainy, especially in Portugal!
- Showing your knees/shoulders is forbidden inside churches. We will be entering churches almost daily – concerts, art, history... Please bring appropriate clothing. Knee-long pants/skirts, girls can use a scarf to cover their shoulders. Men are not supposed to use scarves, so please do bring shirts with sleeves (short or long)
- Pocket-knives, scissors and sometimes drinks and food are not allowed inside some monuments and museums.
- Laundry service in hotels can be very expensive. Unfortunately there are only a few laundromats around the student areas of Madrid and Barcelona. Try and pack accordingly if you are able.
- Suitcase: 1 per person, NOT heavier than 50 pounds!!
- You can also see Travel tip: What to pack and Weather for Spain and Portugal, for more info.

If you have any specific questions, please do not hesitate to contact us. There are so many little things that we can tell you!
Hasta la vista!