Essen, Germany: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]
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Ready to pack for Essen, Germany? If you're planning to go to Essen, here is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.
Contents
- When to go to Essen
- Important essentials for Essen
- Activities for Essen
- Essen in January: weather and what to pack
- Essen in February: weather and what to pack
- Essen in March: weather and what to pack
- Essen in April: weather and what to pack
- Essen in May: weather and what to pack
- Essen in June: weather and what to pack
- Essen in July: weather and what to pack
- Essen in August: weather and what to pack
- Essen in September: weather and what to pack
- Essen in October: weather and what to pack
- Essen in November: weather and what to pack
- Essen in December: weather and what to pack
When to go to Essen, Germany
Based on the climate and weather in Essen, Germany, the best time to go is August. See below for details.
What to wear/what to pack for Essen, Germany
Already know when you're traveling?
Here are some general tips on what to wear in Essen, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.
What to wear/what to pack for Essen, Germany by month
January
January for Essen is cold. Temperatures average in the high 30s F (single digits C) during the day.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Fleece
Warm pants or jeans
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best is: this one
Extra socks
Light gloves or mittens
Jacket or coat
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great kit.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly product.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's wise to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Essen. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit more protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Money/passport pouch
Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.
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 airlines constantly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Given current world events, Germany 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
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Travel neck support pillow
A top rated pillow is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be sure to choose the necessary kind. A lot of adapters on sale are just plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most locations.
If you go to the Red Dot Design Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
Comfy walking shoes
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
February
If you go to Essen in February, you will notice that it is cold. Daytime temperatures are in the low 40s F (single digits C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Fleece
Extra socks
Jacket or coat
Warm pants or jeans
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best is: this
Light gloves or mittens
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb kit.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's important to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly option.
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Essen. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports always losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For additional peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
Room protection door lock
If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.
Given current world events, Germany 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 large prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel pillow
Our fave is this one
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be sure to choose the right kind. The vast majority of adapters for sale now are just plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most countries.
If you go to the Red Dot Design Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
Comfy walking shoes
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
March
March in Essen is pretty cool. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 40s F (single digits C) to 40s F (single digits C), although night temperatures can dip into the low 30s F (single digits C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Jacket or coat
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best option: this
Fleece
Extra socks
Warm pants or jeans
Light gloves or mittens
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent one.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly option.
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 bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Essen. 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 airlines frequently losing luggage recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Room protection door lock
If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.
Anti-theft backpack
For some more peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Given current world events, Germany 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 large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel neck support pillow
A top rated pillow is this one
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. It's important that you find the right kind. A lot of adapters available are simply plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most locations.
If you go to the Red Dot Design Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
Comfy walking shoes
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
April
April in Essen is cold. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 50s F (low 10s C), although night temperatures can dip into the low 30s F (single digits C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Jacket or coat
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best choice: this one
Fleece
Extra socks
Warm pants or jeans
Light gloves or mittens
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly choice.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb one.
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
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Essen. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
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 airports repeatedly losing things recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For added protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Money/passport pouch
Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.
Given current world events, Germany has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel pillow
An excellent option is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Make sure to choose the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters available online are just plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most areas.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
If you go to the Red Dot Design Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
Comfy walking shoes
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
May
If you go to Essen in May, you will notice that it is cool. Daytime temperatures are in the low 60s F (mid 10s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Extra socks
Pants or jeans
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Light jacket or fleece
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Light and heavy skirts
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Rain poncho
A good rain poncho to wear over your jacket can be a lifesaver by protecting your nice jacket. We like this one.
Stormy weather makes rubber rain boots a must. These boots work well for stormy weather:
An umbrella
This excellent one is made for storms.So your stuff stay dry. Even the best luggage can let water in. We like:
Rain pants
These can be vital in a rainstorm.
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly choice.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's useful to bring 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 great option.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For some more peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports always losing things these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: 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 Essen. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Room protection door lock
If staying a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.
Given current world events, Germany has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Take care to pick the correct kind. Many adapters that you can buy are just plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most countries.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel pillow
A good option is this one
If you go to the Red Dot Design Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
Comfy walking shoes
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
June
If you visit Essen during June, you will probably see that it is balmy. Temperatures tend to hover around the 60s F (high 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 50s F (low 10s C). Humidity is generally between 60 and 70% during the day.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Extra socks
Pants or jeans
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Dresses
You can find some great options here
Light jacket or fleece
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Light and heavy skirts
Rain poncho
A high quality rain poncho to wear over your coat can be a lifesaver by protecting your nice jacket. We like this one.
Rainy weather makes rubber rain boots a must. These boots are well-suited for stormy weather:
An umbrella
This excellent one is designed for stormy weather.So your belongings don't get wet. Even the most durable luggage can let moisture in. We suggest:
Rain pants
These are essential in a rainstorm.
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly product.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great kit.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have unreliable tap water, so it's wise to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.
Room protection door lock
If staying a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines repeatedly losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Essen. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit more protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Given current world events, Germany 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
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be sure to pick the right type. A lot of adapters available are simply plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most locations.
Travel pillow
What we like is this one
If you go to the Red Dot Design Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
Comfy walking shoes
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
July
If you visit Essen during July, you will probably see that it is balmy. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 60s F (low 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 50s F (low 10s C). Humidity is generally around 60 during the day.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Light and heavy skirts
Extra socks
Pants or jeans
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Light jacket or fleece
Rain poncho
A weatherproof rain poncho to wear over your jacket will help avoid loads of aggrevation by protecting your nice coat. We like this one.
The stormy weather makes rubber rain boots essential. These boots are well-suited for stormy weather:
An umbrella
This excellent one is built for stormy weather.So your belongings remain dry. The finest suitcases can let rain in. We like:
Rain pants
These pants will be a lifesaver in heavy rain.
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly product.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent value.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's useful to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines repeatedly losing bags these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Essen. 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.
Anti-theft backpack
For added peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Room protection door lock
If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.
Given current world events, Germany 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. Ensure that you find the right kind. The vast majority of adapters currently available are just plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most areas.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Travel neck pillow
A top rated pillow is this one
If you go to the Red Dot Design Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
Comfy walking shoes
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
August
If you go to Essen in August, you will notice that it is mild. Daytime temperatures are in the low 60s F (low 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Light jacket or fleece
Extra socks
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Light and heavy skirts
Pants or jeans
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Rain poncho
A good rain poncho to wear over your coat saves you time and money by protecting your main coat. We like this one.
Rainy weather makes rubber rain boots a necessity. These boots are well-suited for stormy weather:
An umbrella
This excellent one is designed for bad weather.So your stuff don't get wet. The best suitcases can let moisture in. We suggest:
Rain pants
These are vital in a storm.
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly product.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great one.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's important to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Essen. 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.
Room protection door lock
If staying a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.
Anti-theft backpack
For additional protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports frequently losing things nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Given current world events, Germany has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel pillow
A versatile choice is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. It's important that you pick the necessary type. A lot of adapters currently available are simply plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most locations.
If you go to the Red Dot Design Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
Comfy walking shoes
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
September
September in Essen is relatively cool. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 50s F (mid 10s C) to low 60s F (high 10s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Pants or jeans
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Light and heavy skirts
Extra socks
Light jacket or fleece
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Health
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's wise to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly product.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great kit.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Essen. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Anti-theft backpack
For additional peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Money/passport pouch
Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines frequently losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Room protection door lock
If going to a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.
Given current world events, Germany 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
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be sure to get the correct kind. Many adapters available are just plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most countries.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel neck support pillow
What we like is this one
If you go to the Red Dot Design Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
Comfy walking shoes
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
October
If you visit Essen during October, you are likely to notice that it is chilly. Temperatures tend to hover around the 50s F (low 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 40s F (single digits C). Humidity is generally between 70 and 80% during the day.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Light and heavy skirts
Light jacket or fleece
Extra socks
Pants or jeans
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good value.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly option.
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 wise to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Essen. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Room protection door lock
If staying a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.
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 always losing things nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Given current world events, Germany has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel pillow
A great choice is this one
Travel 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 currently available are just plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most areas.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
If you go to the Red Dot Design Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
Comfy walking shoes
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
November
November in this region is cold. Temperatures average in the 40s F (single digits C) during the day.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Warm pants or jeans
Fleece
Light gloves or mittens
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best option: this
Extra socks
Jacket or coat
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's important to take 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 choice.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Essen. 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 belongings.
Money/passport pouch
Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines constantly losing things recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Room protection door lock
If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.
Given current world events, Germany 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 voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be sure to pick the necessary kind. The majority of adapters available are simply plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most countries.
Travel neck pillow
A top rated pillow is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
If you go to the Red Dot Design Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
Comfy walking shoes
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
December
If you go to Essen in December, you will notice that it can be very chilly. Daytime temperatures are in the low 40s F (single digits C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Jacket or coat
Extra socks
Light gloves or mittens
Warm pants or jeans
Fleece
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best choice: this one
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb one.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly choice.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's wise to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
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 stuff.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines repeatedly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you find 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 Essen. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.
Given current world events, Germany has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. It's important that you find the necessary kind. The majority of adapters currently being sold are just plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most areas.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel pillow
A good option is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
If you go to the Red Dot Design Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:
Comfy walking shoes
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
What to do in Essen, Germany
Essen is a city located in the heart of the Ruhr area, a metropolitan region in the west of Germany. It is known for its industrial heritage, museums, and cultural experiences. The city boasts a wealth of tourist attractions, ranging from historical and cultural landmarks to modern art galleries and shopping centers. Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Essen, Germany.
1. Zeche Zollverein
Zeche Zollverein is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the iconic symbol of Essen. It was once one of the largest coal mines in Europe, and now it is an architectural masterpiece that attracts millions of visitors every year. The site comprises the coal mine, the coking plant, and the coal washing plant, all of which have been transformed into exhibition spaces, restaurants, and museums.
2. Villa Hügel
Villa Hügel is a magnificent 19th-century mansion that was once the residence of the Krupp family, one of the most powerful industrial dynasties in Germany. The mansion is surrounded by sprawling gardens and overlooks the Ruhr valley. Visitors can tour the interior of the mansion and discover the history of the Krupp family and their contributions to the city.
3. Museum Folkwang
Museum Folkwang is one of the most important art museums in Germany, with a collection of over 170,000 paintings, sculptures, photographs, and other works of art. The museum's exhibits cover a wide range of art periods and styles, from classical to contemporary art. The museum also hosts regular special exhibitions.
4. Grugapark
Grugapark is a large public park that covers over 70 hectares and is located in the heart of Essen. The park features numerous gardens, playgrounds, lakes, and walking trails, as well as a botanical garden that is home to over 4,000 plant species from around the world. Visitors can also enjoy concerts, festivals, and other events throughout the year.
5. Essen Cathedral
Essen Cathedral is a beautiful neo-Romanesque church that dates back to the 9th century. The cathedral has a long and fascinating history, having been destroyed and rebuilt numerous times throughout the centuries. Visitors can marvel at the cathedral's intricate architecture, its stained glass windows, and its collection of religious artifacts.
6. Limbecker Platz
Limbecker Platz is one of the largest shopping centers in Germany, with over 200 stores and restaurants spread across five floors. The mall offers a wide range of fashion, electronics, and home goods, as well as a large food court and a cinema.
7. Baldeneysee
Baldeneysee is a man-made lake that is a popular destination for water sports enthusiasts. Visitors can go boating, swimming, fishing, or simply relax on the lake's sandy beach. The lake is also home to several restaurants and cafes that offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
In conclusion, Essen is a city that offers a wealth of tourist attractions, from historical landmarks to modern art galleries and shopping centers. Whether you're interested in exploring the city's industrial heritage or simply enjoying its natural beauty, there's something for everyone in Essen. So next time you're planning a trip to Germany, make sure to include Essen on your itinerary.

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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