Bulgaria, Bulgaria: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]
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Ready to pack for Bulgaria, Bulgaria? If you're planning to go to Bulgaria, below is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.
Contents
- When to go to Bulgaria
- Important essentials for Bulgaria
- Activities for Bulgaria
- Bulgaria in January: weather and what to pack
- Bulgaria in February: weather and what to pack
- Bulgaria in March: weather and what to pack
- Bulgaria in April: weather and what to pack
- Bulgaria in May: weather and what to pack
- Bulgaria in June: weather and what to pack
- Bulgaria in July: weather and what to pack
- Bulgaria in August: weather and what to pack
- Bulgaria in September: weather and what to pack
- Bulgaria in October: weather and what to pack
- Bulgaria in November: weather and what to pack
- Bulgaria in December: weather and what to pack
When to go to Bulgaria, Bulgaria
Based on the climate and weather in Bulgaria, Bulgaria, the best time to go is August. See below for details.
What to wear/what to pack for Bulgaria, Bulgaria
Already know when you're traveling?
Here are some general tips on what to wear in Bulgaria, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.
What to wear/what to pack for Bulgaria, Bulgaria by month
January
January in Bulgaria can be dangerously cold and somewhat rainy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 10s F (10+ below zero C), with a few days below 0 F (10+ below zero C). It tends to rain about half of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Thermal undergarments
Our picks:
Lip balm
The best choice: this
Very heavy heated socks
Like these
Scarf/neck warmer
our favoriteTravel shoe storage
Since you will need boots and other footwear,
travel footwear storage is important.Sweaters
Pajamas
Fleece for under jacket
Extreme weather jacket shell
These are a great value:
Extreme cold weather gloves
Coveralls/snow pants
Here are some of the best choices:
A rain jacket to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We like these rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants will be essential in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a great choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things don't get wet. We recommend:
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly choice.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great one.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's wise to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.
Anti-theft backpack
For added peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines frequently losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Bulgaria. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Luggage protection
Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.
Room protection door lock
If going to a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.
Given current world events, Bulgaria has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Travel neck support pillow
Our fave is this one
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. It's important that you choose the right type. The majority of adapters currently sold are just plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most locations.
February
February in Bulgaria can be bitter cold. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the high 10s F (single digits below 0 C), with a few days below 0 F (10+ below zero C). It tends to rain about a third of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Thermal undergarments
We love:
Pajamas
Extreme weather jacket shell
These are a great value:
Lip balm
The best is: this one
Travel shoe storage
Since you will need boots and other footwear,
travel footwear storage is important.Coveralls/snow pants
Here are some of our favorites:
Fleece for under jacket
Scarf/neck warmer
our favoriteExtreme cold weather gloves
Sweaters
Very heavy heated socks
Like these
A rain poncho to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We use these rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants are a lifesaver in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is a perfect option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings don't get wet. We like:
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly option.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's important to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great kit.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For some more protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
Luggage protection
Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.
Room protection door lock
If going to a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports constantly losing things these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Bulgaria. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Money/passport pouch
Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.
Given current world events, Bulgaria has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel pillow
Our favorite is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Make sure to get the necessary kind. The vast majority of adapters currently available are just plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most areas.
March
In March, Bulgaria is biting cold and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the low 20s F (single digits below 0 C) range. At night, lows are in the high 10s F (single digits below 0 C). This is also a rainy time for Bulgaria, with several of the days of the month having rain.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Extreme cold weather gloves
Fleece for under jacket
Scarf/neck warmer
our favoritePajamas
Very heavy heated socks
Like these
Coveralls/snow pants
Here are some of our favorites:
Thermal undergarments
Our choice is:
Sweaters
Travel shoe storage
Since you will need boots and other footwear,
travel footwear storage is important.Lip balm
The best pick: here
Extreme weather jacket shell
These are a great value:
A rain coat to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We like rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants are essential in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is a great choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases remain dry. We recommend:
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly product.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's important to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good one.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Bulgaria. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Room protection door lock
If going to a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.
Anti-theft backpack
For some more protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines frequently losing things recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Luggage protection
Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.
Money/passport pouch
Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.
Given current world events, Bulgaria has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Travel neck support pillow
A top rated pillow is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be careful to pick the necessary type. Most adapters for sale now are simply plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most locations.
April
April in Bulgaria is freezing and somewhat rainy. The rain/snow can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 30s F (single digits C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Travel footwear storage
You will need multiple footwear options, so consider
travel footwear storage.Insulated water bottle
Our first choice:
thisWarm pants or jeans
Heavy jacket
Heavy socks
Such as:
Sweaters
Gloves
Lip balm
Our pick: here
A rain jacket to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We like these rain boots:
Rain pants
These can be a lifesaver in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is an excellent option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings remain dry. We suggest:
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great choice.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly option.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's important to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
Room protection door lock
If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines frequently losing things nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Money/passport pouch
Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.
Luggage protection
Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Bulgaria. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit more peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Given current world events, Bulgaria has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. It's important that you get the necessary kind. The vast majority of adapters available online are simply plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most countries.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel neck pillow
Our favorite is this one
May
May here can be brisk and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the high 30s F (single digits C) during the day. It rains a bit less than half of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Jacket or coat
Extra socks
Light gloves or mittens
Fleece
Warm pants or jeans
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best option: this one
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
A rain coat to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We like rain boots:
Rain pants
These will be a lifesaver in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a perfect choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags don't get wet. We suggest:
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's wise to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb value.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly option.
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.
Room protection door lock
If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines frequently losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Bulgaria. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Anti-theft backpack
For some more protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Luggage protection
Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.
Given current world events, Bulgaria has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be sure to choose the correct kind. Many adapters that you can buy are just plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most locations.
Travel pillow
A good option is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
June
In June, Bulgaria can be very chilly and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the low 40s F (single digits C) range. At night, lows are in the 30s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for Bulgaria, with several of the days of the month having rain.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Light gloves or mittens
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best pick: here
Jacket or coat
Extra socks
Warm pants or jeans
Fleece
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
A rain jacket to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest rain boots:
Rain pants
These are essential in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is an excellent one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings remain dry. We like:
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly choice.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's important to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb choice.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For some more peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines constantly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Room protection door lock
If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Bulgaria. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Luggage protection
Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.
Money/passport pouch
Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.
Given current world events, Bulgaria has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Travel neck pillow
Our fave is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Check that you choose the correct type. A lot of adapters for sale now are just plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most locations.
July
If you visit Bulgaria during July, you are likely to notice that it is cold. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 50s F (single digits C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 40s F (single digits C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain occasionally.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Light jacket or fleece
Extra socks
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Pants or jeans
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Light and heavy skirts
A rain coat to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend these rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants can be vital in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is a great option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings remain dry. We like:
Health
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's wise to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent one.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly product.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
Room protection door lock
If staying a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit more protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines frequently losing luggage these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Money/passport pouch
Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Bulgaria. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Luggage protection
Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.
Given current world events, Bulgaria has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be sure to get the right type. The majority of adapters available online are just plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most countries.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Travel neck support pillow
A great choice is this one
August
August is brisk. Temperatures average in the low 50s F (low 10s C) during the day. It rains a bit less than half of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Pants or jeans
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Light jacket or fleece
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Light and heavy skirts
Extra socks
A rain coat to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend these rain boots:
Rain pants
These can be a lifesaver in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a perfect choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases remain dry. We recommend:
Health
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's useful to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly option.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb kit.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
Room protection door lock
If going to a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.
Anti-theft backpack
For added protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Luggage protection
Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines constantly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Money/passport pouch
Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Bulgaria. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Given current world events, Bulgaria has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Make sure to get the necessary type. Many adapters currently available are just plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most areas.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel pillow
A versatile choice is this one
September
If you go to Bulgaria in September, you will notice that it is cold. Expect it to rain sometimes. Daytime temperatures are in the 40s F (single digits C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Jacket or coat
Fleece
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best pick: this
Warm pants or jeans
Extra socks
Light gloves or mittens
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
A rain jacket to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We use these rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants are a lifesaver in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a great one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases don't get wet. We like:
Health
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have unreliable tap water, so it's important to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great one.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly product.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
Luggage protection
Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.
Money/passport pouch
Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.
Anti-theft backpack
For some more protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines repeatedly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Room protection door lock
If staying a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Bulgaria. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Given current world events, Bulgaria has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel neck pillow
What we like is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be careful to find the right kind. Many adapters that you can buy are just plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most countries.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
October
October in Bulgaria is brisk. The rain/snow can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 30s F (single digits C) to low 40s F (single digits C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Light gloves or mittens
Warm pants or jeans
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best pick: here
Extra socks
Fleece
Jacket or coat
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
A rain poncho to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants are a lifesaver in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is a perfect one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases don't get wet. We suggest:
Health
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's important to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly product.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great one.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
Luggage protection
Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.
Room protection door lock
If staying a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Bulgaria. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Money/passport pouch
Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports repeatedly losing things these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit more protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Given current world events, Bulgaria has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be careful to choose the right type. A lot of adapters that you can buy are simply plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most places.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel neck pillow
An excellent option is this one
November
November in Bulgaria is very cold. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the high 20s F (single digits below 0 C). It tends to rain a bit less than half of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Heavy socks
Such as:
Insulated water bottle
Our favorite:
thisHeavy jacket
Warm pants or jeans
Lip balm
Our favorite option: this
Travel footwear storage
You will need multiple footwear options, so consider
travel footwear storage.Gloves
Sweaters
A rain coat to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants can be essential in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a perfect choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things stay dry. We recommend:
Health
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's important to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent option.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly product.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Bulgaria. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Luggage protection
Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.
Room protection door lock
If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit more peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines repeatedly losing things recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Money/passport pouch
Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.
Given current world events, Bulgaria has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Travel neck support pillow
Our fave is this one
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be careful to get the necessary kind. A lot of adapters for sale now are simply plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most places.
December
December can be bitter cold and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the low 20s F (single digits below 0 C) during the day. It rains about a third of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Scarf/neck warmer
our favoriteVery heavy heated socks
Like these
Travel shoe storage
Since you will need boots and other footwear,
travel footwear storage is important.Fleece for under jacket
Thermal undergarments
Our choice is:
Extreme cold weather gloves
Pajamas
Extreme weather jacket shell
These are a great value:
Lip balm
The best is: this one
Coveralls/snow pants
Here are some of the best values:
Sweaters
A rain poncho to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We like these rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants are essential in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is a great option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings stay dry. We recommend:
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly choice.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent option.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's wise to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.
Anti-theft backpack
For additional protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines always losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Room protection door lock
If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Bulgaria. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Luggage protection
Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.
Given current world events, Bulgaria has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Ensure that you find the right kind. Most adapters for sale now are just plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most locations.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Travel pillow
Our fave is this one
What to do in Bulgaria, Bulgaria
Bulgaria is a beautiful country situated in the heart of the Balkans. This landlocked country boasts of mesmerizing landscapes, historic sites, and famous cultural monuments that attract millions of tourists every year. Bulgaria has something to offer everyone, whether you are looking for adventure, relaxation, or just a peaceful getaway. If you're wondering about the top tourist attractions in Bulgaria, we've got you covered. Here are some of the best places to visit in Bulgaria.
Sofia, the Capital City
The Bulgarian capital, Sofia, is a vibrant city located in the western part of Bulgaria. This modern city boasts of several historical landmarks, museums, and galleries. A must-see attraction in Sofia is the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, one of Bulgaria's largest Orthodox cathedrals, named after the Russian prince Alexander Nevsky, who liberated Bulgaria in the late 19th century. The National Palace of Culture, with its beautiful gardens and fountains, hosts many concerts, exhibitions, and festivals throughout the year. The Vitosha Mountain, situated within the city limits, is a popular destination for skiing, hiking, and other outdoor activities.
Plovdiv, the City of Seven Hills
Located about 150 km southeast of Sofia, Plovdiv is the second-largest city in Bulgaria and a hub of history, culture, and art. The city is known for its seven hills, cobbled streets, and ancient Roman ruins. The Old Town of Plovdiv, with its colorful houses, charming cafés, and beautiful gardens, is one of the best-preserved architectural ensembles in Europe. The Roman Theater, the Ancient Stadium, and the Roman Forum are some of the impressive Roman monuments you can visit in Plovdiv. Art lovers must visit the International Fair Plovdiv, which hosts various exhibitions, concerts, and festivals throughout the year.
Rila Monastery, the Jewel of the Balkans
Located about 120 km south of Sofia, the Rila Monastery is a stunning masterpiece of Bulgarian architecture and one of the most famous tourist attractions in Bulgaria. This UNESCO World Heritage site was founded in the 10th century and has preserved its unique cultural and historical significance over the centuries. The main church of the monastery, adorned with murals, frescoes, and wood carvings, is one of the best examples of Bulgarian Renaissance art. The monastery also boasts a remarkable museum, which houses over 13,000 exhibits ranging from ancient manuscripts to religious relics.
Bansko, the Ski Resort
If you're looking for an adrenaline-rushing winter break, Bansko is the place to be. Located in the Pirin Mountains, about 145 km south of Sofia, Bansko is the most famous ski resort in Bulgaria. Bansko offers a wide range of winter sports activities, such as skiing, snowboarding, and sledding. The town's charming cobblestone streets, traditional taverns, and music festivals add a lively vibe to the après-ski scene.
Nessebar, the Ancient City
Situated about 100 km east of Sofia, Nessebar is a charming seaside town renowned for its ancient architecture, vibrant atmosphere, and crystal-clear waters. The picturesque Old Town of Nessebar, located on a peninsula, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its Byzantine fortifications, 13th-century churches, and charming cobblestone streets. The town's beautiful beaches, water sports activities, and lively bars and restaurants make it a perfect summer destination.
Bulgaria has countless other tourist attractions, from its stunning Black Sea coast to its iconic Thracian tombs. These are just a few of the top tourist attractions in Bulgaria that will help you discover and experience the country's unique cultural and historical heritage. So, plan your trip to this marvelous Balkan gem and have the time of your life!
About your travel guide
Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.
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