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Santorini’s whitewashed houses perched atop volcanic cliffs are instantly recognizable. The gorgeous crescent-shaped Greek island (also known as Thira) is a bucket-list worthy destination that attracts people all over the globe with its picture-perfect architecture, volcanic beaches, turquoise water, fascinating history, and delicious cuisine.
If you are visiting the Cycladic island for the first time, you are in for an experience (and the sunset views) of a lifetime. The quickest way to get there is to fly to Athens and then it only takes another 45 minute-flight to get to Santorini. You can also opt to take a ferry from the Greek capital. In this case, you will reach Santorini in about five to eight hours depending on the ferry. If you're prone to motion sickness, however, it may also be a good idea to bring along some motion sickness pills, just in case.
In terms of clothes, lightweight and breezy pieces––such as maxi dresses for the ladies, short-sleeved linen shirts and shorts (and maybe a pair of slacks) for the gentlemen, and comfortable footwear––are your best bet.
Keep scrolling to find out what else to prep before you jet off to the most romantic Greek island.
Dagne Dover Dakota Backpack
Instead of packing a beach tote and a day bag in your luggage, opt for this cool backpack made from quick-drying and breathable neoprene. It’s stylish and practical enough so you can carry it on and off the beach. It also comes in three sizes and 12 color options.
To buy: $135, dagnedover.com
Ancient Greek Sandals Pieria Wraparound Leather Sandals
Santorini’s ancient, narrow streets are not really heel-friendly, so your best bet is a comfy pair of flats. Of course, since the island is also a hotspot for the world’s most stylish crowd, we completely understand that you probably wouldn’t want to show up wearing sports sandals. That’s why we’d pack this pair of chic Ancient Greek Sandals. They have molded insoles for maximum comfort and stylish wrap-around gold leather straps.
To buy: $195, matchesfashion.com
KOR Nava Filter Water bottle
This water bottle uses a carbon-activated filter to make tap water taste better and safe for drinking.
To buy: $22, amazon.com
International Travel Adapter
Since European countries use higher voltage (220V) than the US, you will need your travel adapter to serve as a voltage converter as well, otherwise you may end up frying your devices. We love this one because it's usable anywhere in the world.
To buy: $36, amazon.com
iPad Air
Catch up on your reading or simply browse the Internet while you soak up the sun with the iPad Air. It only weights a pound and is less than a quarter of an inch wide, so it’s the perfect travel-friendly alternative to the laptop you find yourself needing anyway.
To buy: from $499, apple.com
Sea Star Beachwear Beachcomber Espadrille Water Shoe
Good-looking water shoes are a rarity, but these espadrille-inspired ones are the exception. They come in both women’s and men’s sizes and are a must-have while in Santorini since some of the beaches on the island are quite rocky.
To buy: men's, $89, zappos.com; women's, $89, zappos.com
Mosquito Repellent Bracelets
Keep mosquitoes away from you (and your kids) with these cool waterproof wristbands. They use natural oils to repel mosquitoes, leaving your skin free of any chemicals or overbearing smells.
To buy: $15, amazon.com
TUMI ID Lock Passport Case
While credit cards are widely accepted on the island, it’s still a good idea to carry some cash on you. We love this passport case because it has pockets and compartments for all your important travel documents and it features a useful bill pocket. The ID Lock technology will also protect you from identity theft.
To buy: $115, tumi.com
JOTO Universal Waterproof Phone Case
Santorini is a photographer’s paradise. This waterproof phone case will protect your phone while you take perfect selfies in the turquoise waters of the Aegean Sea.
To buy: $6, amazon.com
The White Company Riad Stripe Turkish Cotton Beach Towel
Turkish towels are not as bulky as typical beach or bath towels, so they are a great travel option. This one has a velour front and a plush back so you can use it as a beach towel, a regular bath towel, or even a picnic blanket.
To buy: $49, nordstrom.com
Clinique After Sun Rescue Balm
Along with sunscreen, after-sun lotion is a must-pack for any travel involving sun exposure. This one form Clinique is formulated with aloe vera leaf juice to prevent damage from too much fun in the sun.
To buy: $27, bloomingdales.com
