What to pack for a spa weekend
Short answer: A spa weekend is about rest, warm baths and comfortable clothing. Pack soft clothes for the spa and relaxing, something neat but simple for dinner, and light sets to sleep in so you can change without fuss.
What you do at a spa hotel
Most spa stays alternate between heat and cold: sauna, steam room, hot tubs, cold plunges and rest. Between treatments you often wear a bathrobe and slippers provided by the hotel. But there is also time for walks in nature, yoga or a workout, and long meals. It is therefore sensible to pack three kinds of clothing: for the spa, for activity and for the evening. Keeping each kind in its own pouch makes it easy to change between them.
Soft clothes for relaxing
When you come out of the sauna, your skin is warm and your body needs to settle. Clothes in a soft, breathable fabric feel pleasant while you rest on a lounger or read in your room. A T-shirt in viscose made from bamboo is light, smooth and feels cool against the skin. See bamboo T-shirts for men. Pack a pair of soft trousers with an elastic waist as well.
Dinner in the restaurant
Many spa hotels have a restaurant with a calm, slightly smarter atmosphere. You do not need a suit, but it is nice to swap the bathrobe for something presentable. A polo with chinos or dark jeans is a good, relaxed choice. See bamboo polos for men. Check the hotel's dress code in advance, as some restaurants ask for closed shoes.
Good sleep after the heat
After a day of sauna and warm baths many people sleep deeply. The body can still feel warm at night, so light sleepwear that lets air through is comfortable. See bamboo sleepwear for men. Drink a glass of water before bed, as you lose fluid in the sauna. Switch off screens in good time and let the calm of the day carry into the night.
For the sauna and pool
Swimwear is a must. In many Nordic spas the sauna is textile free or requires a towel to sit on, so check the rules. Bring a second set of swimwear so you always have a dry one. Slippers with a non slip sole are important on wet tiles. A small bag for wet clothes keeps the rest of your luggage dry.
Activity and fresh air
Many spa resorts lie near forest, lake or coast, and a walk or a yoga class is part of the experience. Pack trainers or good walking shoes, a light jumper and a windproof jacket. Workout clothes in a soft fabric can also be worn for relaxing afterwards. That way a small weekend bag is all you need.
Frequently asked questions
What should I pack for a spa stay
Swimwear, slippers, soft clothes for relaxing, a neat outfit for dinner, sleepwear and clothes for a walk or yoga.
Does the hotel provide a bathrobe
Most spa hotels do, but check in advance. Some places expect you to bring your own or rent one.
Can everyone use the sauna
It is healthy for most people, but if you are pregnant or have heart problems or high blood pressure, talk to your doctor before using the sauna or hot baths.
You can find the full range at Bamboo-Clothing.com.
