From Daytime Strolls to Candlelit Dinners: The City Break Packing List
Planning a romantic city break?
Who would blame you.
We are about to enter typical season for couples city breaks. Spring is the ideal time to get away with your loved one for a mini break or even a naughty getaway. Temperatures across Europe can be mild and comfortable making it perfect for exploring cities on foot. Fewer crowds as you're avoiding peak summer months and many European cities offer a true romantic ambiance.
Whether you're off to Paris for candlelit dinners, exploring the hidden gems of Rome, or indulging in some fine wine in Barcelona, you’ll want to pack wisely. A city break means lots of walking, plenty of sightseeing, and, hopefully, some passionate nights.
But the key to a stress-free, unforgettable getaway lies in what you bring along. You don’t want to overpack, but you also don’t want to be caught unprepared. Imagine arriving at your hotel, ready for a romantic evening, only to realise you’ve forgotten something crucial.
Not the best start to a steamy getaway, right?
With a little careful planning and a well-thought-out packing list, you can ensure that nothing stands in the way of your perfect trip. So, let’s make sure you’ve got everything you need to make this city break one for the books, whether that means looking great for date night, staying comfortable during long sightseeing walks, or ensuring you’re ready for any intimate moments along the way.
1. Comfy Yet Stylish Shoes
We all want to look our best while strolling through the streets of a beautiful city, but the wrong footwear can turn your dream trip into a painful nightmare.
Sure, those heels make your legs look amazing, but after a full day of wandering cobbled streets and hopping between museums, you'll be cursing them. Let's not forget to mention an exasperated partner could lead a romantic holiday turn into an avoidable argument.
Instead, opt for something comfortable but chic, think stylish trainers, cushioned loafers, or classy ankle boots that won’t leave you limping by lunchtime. You’ll thank yourself when you’re still going strong at sunset, ready to dance the night away or enjoy a long, romantic walk by the river.
Plus, blisters and aching feet are not exactly aphrodisiacs, so do yourself and your partner a favour and prioritise comfort without sacrificing style.
2. A Killer Outfit (Or Two)
You never know when you’ll find yourself whisked off for a surprise dinner, rooftop cocktails, or a last-minute night out at a jazz bar. Pack a versatile outfit that makes you feel sexy and confident, but also works for different occasions.
A little black dress? A smart but relaxed button-down? Something that can be dressed up with accessories but is still comfortable enough for an impromptu city adventure? It’s all about balance... looking good, feeling great, and be ready for whatever romantic escapades come your way.
The key is to pack outfits that are easy to mix and match, ensuring you can go from day to night effortlessly. Add in a stylish jacket or blazer to complete your look and prepare for any unexpected chills or fancy venues that require a bit of dressing up.
3. Mini Toiletries & Perfume
You want to smell as good as you look, but full-size bottles take up precious packing space. Travel-sized toiletries and a mini perfume will keep you fresh without the bulk.
A great scent can be a powerful memory trigger, so why not bring something special that will forever remind you of this trip?
Bonus tip: a spritz of your signature scent on your hotel pillow makes it feel even more like home.
Oh, and don’t forget a quality deodorant, nothing kills romance faster than feeling sticky and sweaty after a long day of sightseeing. Fresh breath is also a must, so pack mints or a travel toothbrush for spontaneous kisses.
4. A Power Bank
For the millennials and Gen Zs amongst us, who may argue this is the most important item to pack.
Between taking romantic selfies, navigating with Google Maps, checking out restaurant reviews, and making sure your playlists are ready for the perfect mood-setting moment, your phone battery will drain faster than your bank account on a day out to Meadowhall... YES HARRIET IN MARKETING, WE ARE LOOKING AT YOU! 👀
A power bank is an absolute must. Opt for a lightweight but high-capacity one so you’re never left scrambling for a plug at a café when you should be enjoying the moment. Nothing kills the vibe faster than a ‘low battery’ warning right when you're about to capture a perfect sunset kiss.
Stay charged and stay connected, it’s a modern-day essential.
5. Silky Sleepwear (or Nothing at All)
A little bit of luxury never hurt anyone.
Satin pyjamas? A cheeky negligee? Or maybe just an oversized shirt that leaves little to the imagination?
Whatever makes you feel your best, pack it. There’s something about slipping into something soft and sensual after a long day of adventure that just makes everything feel extra special. Or, if you’re really in the mood for spontaneity, consider skipping the sleepwear altogether... less laundry to do when you get home!
The key is to feel comfortable and sexy, whether you’re lounging in the hotel room or waking up to breakfast in bed.
6. A Playlist For The Mood
Whether you need some sultry tunes for the hotel room, a chill soundtrack for a scenic stroll, or an energising mix for an early morning adventure, a curated playlist is a game-changer.
Music sets the mood, so take the time to put together a selection that suits every part of your trip.
Bonus points if you include some local artists to set the vibe, nothing makes you feel more connected to a city than its soundtrack.
A little thought into your music choices can make ordinary moments feel cinematic.
7. Painkillers & Plasters
Romantic doesn’t mean reckless. A heavy night of cocktails, an impromptu hike to see the city skyline, or a full day of sightseeing can leave you feeling worse for wear.
Pack some paracetamol or ibuprofen for those unexpected headaches or sore muscles, and don’t forget plasters for potential blisters, especially if you ignored tip #1 and brought those heels anyway.
A little preparation goes a long way in keeping the romance alive instead of spending your getaway searching for a pharmacy.
Nobody wants to be out of action when there’s fun to be had!
8. Condoms
Let’s be honest... a romantic city break is the perfect excuse to indulge in some uninterrupted quality time together especially if you have kids.
Don’t leave it to chance, bring your own condoms. Not all countries stock the brands you trust, and there’s nothing worse than trying to navigate a language barrier in a foreign pharmacy when you’re in the mood.
Plus, hotel minibars don’t always have them, and you don’t want to be caught off guard.
Pack a variety... ribbed, flavoured, ultra-thin because, hey, why not make the most of the moment?
After all, nothing kills the mood like realising you’re unprepared when the heat is on.
Better to be safe, stylish, and oh-so-sensual.
9. Lubricants
A good quality lube can turn a good night into a great one, adding extra comfort and excitement to your intimate moments. Opt for a travel-sized bottle that won’t explode in your bag (unless you like surprises of the wrong kind).
Silicone-based for longevity? Water-based for compatibility? Flavoured for oral sex?
Pick your favourite and thank yourself later. If you’re feeling extra fancy, try one with a tingling effect to really spice things up.
Just make sure it’s within the airline’s liquid restrictions if you’re flying, you don’t want to explain that one at security.
A little goes a long way, and having it on hand ensures that nothing gets in the way of your romantic rendezvous.
Our personal recommendation is our Vital and Fruity Sampler Tubes as you get all of the above in small tubes that won't leave you red-faced if you exceed airline liquid restrictions.
10. Sex Toys
Why should your luggage have all the fun?
A discreet toy can spice up your getaway in ways you didn’t even expect. Whether it’s a pocket-sized vibrator, a remote-controlled couples’ toy, or something a little more adventurous, the key is to keep it travel-friendly.
Nothing says ‘romance’ like a little added thrill! If you and your partner are feeling adventurous, this could be the perfect time to try something new, just make sure to pack discreetly and keep things fun.
Make Sure to Enjoy Your City Break
A romantic city break should be fun, exciting, and, most importantly, stress-free. Pack wisely, be prepared, and most of all, enjoy every moment. Whether you’re planning candlelit dinners, sightseeing marathons, or passionate nights in your hotel room, this checklist ensures you’re ready for whatever comes your way both in and out of the bedroom.
So, book that trip, pack that bag, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure with your special someone!
