Schiphol Airport, Netherlands: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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Ready to pack for Schiphol Airport, Netherlands? If you're planning to go to Schiphol Airport, the following is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Schiphol Airport, Netherlands

Based on the climate and weather in Schiphol Airport, Netherlands, the best time to go is June. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Schiphol Airport, Netherlands

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Schiphol Airport, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Schiphol Airport, Netherlands by month

January

If you go to Schiphol Airport in January, you will notice that it is pretty cool. Expect it to rain or snow a bit less than half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the low 40s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Netherlands has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Schiphol Airport. 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 luggage these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For added peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • 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. It's important that you choose the correct type. The vast majority of adapters on sale are simply plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

  • Travel neck pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

If you go to the Rijksmuseum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

February

February for Schiphol Airport is brisk. Temperatures average in the low 40s F (single digits C) during the day. It rains or snows about a third of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Netherlands has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing bags 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 Schiphol Airport. 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, protect your room with a portable door lock.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For some more peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

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 amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Make sure to get the correct kind. Many adapters currently sold are just plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most places.

  • Travel pillow

    Our favorite is this one

If you go to the Rijksmuseum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

March

If you vacation in Schiphol Airport during March, you might see that it is pretty cool. Temperatures tend to hover around the 40s F (single digits C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 30s F (single digits C). Humidity is generally between 70 and 80% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Netherlands has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Room protection door lock

    If going to a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Schiphol Airport. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For added peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

Comfort + Essentials

  • 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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Take care to get the necessary type. Most adapters currently being sold are simply plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most places.

If you go to the Rijksmuseum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

April

April in Schiphol Airport can be brisk. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the high 30s F (single digits C). But the colder weather doesn't bring low humidity, which is in the 60% to 70% range on average.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Netherlands has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit more protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Schiphol Airport. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing luggage these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be sure to choose the necessary kind. Most adapters on sale are just plug changers and require your electronics to adjust 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

If you go to the Rijksmuseum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

May

May in Schiphol Airport can be chilly. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 50s F (low 10s C) to low 60s F (mid 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Netherlands has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection 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 constantly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you 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 Schiphol Airport. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • 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. Make sure to pick the correct type. The vast majority of adapters available are simply plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you go to the Rijksmuseum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

June

June for Schiphol Airport can be chilly. Temperatures average in the 60s F (high 10s C) during the day. It rains regularly.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Netherlands has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • 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 protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Schiphol Airport. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing things these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

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

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Check that you pick the necessary type. The majority of adapters on sale are just plug changers 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.

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

If you go to the Rijksmuseum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

July

July in Schiphol Airport is balmy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 60s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Netherlands has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Room protection door lock

    If going to a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Schiphol Airport. 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 luggage these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit more protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Check that you pick the necessary kind. The vast majority of adapters available are simply plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you go to the Rijksmuseum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

August

If you visit Schiphol Airport during August, you will probably find 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 between 60 and 70% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain regularly.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Netherlands has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Room protection door lock

    If going to a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For additional protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Schiphol Airport. 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 frequently losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. It's important that you choose the correct kind. A lot of adapters for sale now are simply plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most places.

If you go to the Rijksmuseum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

September

If you are traveling to Schiphol Airport in September, you will notice that it is cool. Expect it to rain about a third of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the low 60s F (high 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Netherlands has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • 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 stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Schiphol Airport. 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Ensure that you find the right type. Many adapters for sale now are just plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    What we like 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

If you go to the Rijksmuseum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

October

If you are traveling to Schiphol Airport in October, you will notice that it is cool. Expect it to rain about a third of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the 50s F (low 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Netherlands has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit more protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Schiphol Airport. 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 airlines frequently losing things recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties 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

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be sure to choose the necessary kind. Many adapters currently available are just plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most areas.

  • Travel pillow

    What we like is this one

If you go to the Rijksmuseum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

November

November for Schiphol Airport is pretty cool. Temperatures average in the 40s F (single digits C) during the day. It rains 5-10 days this month.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Netherlands has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Schiphol Airport. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing things recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For additional peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be sure to find the necessary kind. Many adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. 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 huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

If you go to the Rijksmuseum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

December

If you go to Schiphol Airport in December, you will notice that it can be brisk. Expect it to rain about a third of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the low 40s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Netherlands has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For added peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Schiphol Airport. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing things recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • 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

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Check that you find the necessary kind. The majority of adapters currently sold are just plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you go to the Rijksmuseum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

What to do in Schiphol Airport, Netherlands

Schiphol Airport is one of the largest and busiest airports in Europe, handling over 71 million passengers in 2019. While many visitors are only passing through on their way to other destinations, Schiphol itself offers plenty of attractions and activities to occupy your time during a layover or a delay. Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Schiphol Airport.

1. Rijksmuseum Amsterdam Schiphol

The Rijksmuseum is one of the most famous museums in the world, and a satellite branch of the museum is located in Schiphol Airport. The museum showcases the highlights of Dutch art and culture, including works by Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Van Gogh. The collection can be viewed for free and is on display 365 days per year.

2. Holland Boulevard

Located in the international terminal, Holland Boulevard offers a variety of Dutch-inspired experiences. You can relax in the Panorama Terrace, which offers great views of the runway, or have a drink at the Heineken Bar. There is also a library where you can borrow Dutch literature and a range of shops where you can purchase souvenirs.

3. Casino

If you're feeling lucky, try your hand at the Holland Casino, which is located in the airport's main terminal. The casino is open 24 hours per day and offers a variety of slot machines, table games, and live poker.

4. Airport Tours

For those who want to get up close and personal with the airport, there are a range of tours available. The most popular is the Schiphol Behind the Scenes tour, which takes visitors on a guided tour of the airport's facilities, including the baggage handling area and the air traffic control tower.

5. XpresSpa

If you need to relax and unwind before or after a flight, XpresSpa offers a range of beauty treatments and massages. Services include makeup application, nail treatments, and even a quick cat nap in a sleep pod.

6. Travel & Culture Museum

Located in the Departure Lounge 2, the Travel & Culture Museum offers visitors a chance to learn about the history of air travel and the impact it has had on the world. The museum features a range of exhibits showcasing the evolution of the aviation industry, as well as artifacts from around the world.

Schiphol Airport offers plenty of opportunities for travelers to have fun and explore during their layover or delay. From museums to casinos and everything in between, there's something for everyone. So next time your flight through Schiphol gets delayed or canceled, consider exploring these top tourist attractions.

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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