Amsterdam is a beautiful place which should be on every traveller's list. Its historic roots go very deep and its culture is one of the most interesting in whole Europe, it's not a surprise Amsterdam's tourism statistics have always maintained high numbers of visitors and steady revenue. But there's more, Amsterdam is also seen as Europe's capital of freedom – a place where one can legally indulge in many taboo activities, such as consuming legal marihuana and visiting the Red-light district, turning it into the most preferable spot for progressive youth and open-minded people. But no matter what it is that made you fall in love with Amsterdam, if you're going there, you'd like to be prepared, and packing properly is a perfect start.
Appropriate Clothes
Starting off with the basics, packing for a trip to Amsterdam shouldn't be hard as long as you keep in mind the activities you're planning to engage in and the lifestyle you'd like to live while being there. The climate in Amsterdam is far more forgiving than the one in let’s say, London, so you shouldn't feel too paranoid when preparing. If travelling in winter, naturally you'll want to pack some warm clothes as the temperature tends to get around 0 degrees Celsius. If you’re going for the warmer period, you’ll be happy to know that Amsterdam is generally a very warm place during spring and summer – 20-25 degrees Celsius, so shorts and t-shirts will do just fine during the day. For a night out you’ll want to pack some pants, fancier dresses and something slightly warmer in case it gets cold – sweaters and thin jackets will do just fine.
The fashion in Amsterdam is quite progressive, but so is the open-mindedness of the locals, so make sure you are always feeling as comfortable as possible in your outfit and you should be just fine.
Small Things
Amsterdam has many amazing architectural accomplishments, both historical and modern designed buildings and monuments. You’ll want these things captured on camera so make sure you take one with you. Sometimes your iPhone will suffice for a quick shot of an interesting place, however seeing as you’ll be looking and showing off the pictures to your friends, you’ll want something with a wider lens.
Amsterdam is also one of the few cities that travel almost exclusively by bicycles and trust me, once you get off the plane and witness the beauty and simplicity of this transport method, you’ll want to get on, uhm, the bike. Considering that, you’ll probably want to take a small backpack which you can easily carry around with you even when you’re riding to the next coffee shop.
Protection is also something you’ll need to consider if you’re planning to visit the Red-light district for more intimate fun activities. Even though every brothel offers condoms (a requirement in every respectable place you’ll visit), it would be a great idea to pack a few condoms of your own, just in case. You’ll be glad you did.
Helpful Details
There are some things worth mentioning that I personally believe should be in your suitcase. One of them is small, portable dictionary which you can carry around with you everywhere you go. Sure, Google translate is also an option, but you’ll probably want to have a backup just in case there is no internet connection around (highly unlikely, but still).
Also if you’re going by yourself, make sure you get some reading material. Reading a book in a foreign cafe has to be one of the best meditative moments one can experience!
