Packing list for Bulgaria, travel insurance for Bulgaria and taking your belongings

What to take to Bulgaria: brief

To pack and check:

• Documents: for EU citizens a passport that is valid throughout your stay. If you have a passport from outside the EU, it must be valid for at least three months after you leave the Schengen Area. Possibly a visa depending on your nationality. Bring a copy of your travel document and your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) if you have it. 
• Money: euros. Bulgaria adopted the euro on 1 January 2026. You can withdraw cash or pay with card in many places, but for the countryside it's best to have cash.
• Clothing: lightweight clothing for the hot summer, but also layers for spring and autumn. Going to the mountains or travelling in winter? Bring warm layers and good waterproof clothing. Heading to the coast or staying at a nice hotel with a swimming pool? Do not forget your swimwear.
• Shoes: sneakers or comfortable shoes for cities, and sandals for warm days. Sturdy hiking shoes with good grip are important for mountain walks. Warm shoes are useful in winter.
• Toiletries and personal care: high-factor sunscreen for both summer and winter, SPF lip balm and hand sanitiser.
• Outdoor essentials: sunglasses, a cap or sun hat, and a reusable water bottle. A good daypack and a sturdy rain jacket are useful if you plan to explore the mountains or nature reserves.
• Medication and travel first aid: a small first-aid kit with plasters and blister plasters, as well as any medication you normally take.
• Insects: a tick remover and, if you plan to hike or camp in summer, insect repellent.
• Technology and equipment: a travel adapter for type C/F sockets. A power bank can be useful on long hikes or road trips.
• Safety: be particularly alert to pickpockets in busy tourist areas. A bag or backpack that can be securely closed is useful.

To consider:

• Hiking poles for mountain walks.
• A shawl to cover your shoulders when visiting Orthodox churches.
• A good hiking map or offline hiking routes.
• Binoculars for birdwatching.
• A quick-drying towel for the beach, lakes and spontaneous adventures in rivers.
• An interest in local cuisine, because there is plenty of delicious food to try.
• A supply of snacks for long bus journeys or hikes.

Are there dangerous insects in Bulgaria?

Are there mosquitoes in Bulgaria?

• Yes. Mosquitoes are common, particularly in summer and in areas with water. They are not entirely harmless, as they can transmit West Nile virus.
• Asian tiger mosquitoes are also spreading into more areas and could contribute to the transmission of additional diseases in the future.
• Protective clothing and insect repellent are useful, especially if you spend time outdoors in the evening or explore nature.
• Read more about mosquitoes.
• Read more about the use of DEET, as well as other ways to protect yourself against mosquitoes and insects.

Are there sand flies in Bulgaria?

• Yes. Sand flies occur in many parts of Bulgaria. They are usually just a nuisance because their bites can leave intensely itchy bumps, but they can also transmit leishmaniasis. Fortunately, this is uncommon.
• The risk is greatest if you spend a lot of time outdoors in warm areas during the evening and at night.
• Read more about sand flies.
• Read more about protection against sand flies and sand fleas.

Are there ticks in Bulgaria?

• Yes. Ticks are also a concern in Bulgaria and can transmit diseases.
• As with mosquitoes and sand flies, wearing long clothing and using insect repellent containing DEET or picaridin can help reduce the risk of bites.
• Read more about ticks.
• Read more about protection against ticks and leeches.

Are DEET or other insect repellents available in Bulgaria?

• Yes. Insect repellents are widely available in Bulgaria. Pharmacies, supermarkets and other shops sell a range of products.
• Autan is a popular brand. It and other repellents can be found at shops such as Praktiker, Lidl and Kaufland.

Is it legal to buy a joint or weed in Bulgaria, or bring it with you to Bulgaria?

• No. Cannabis is illegal in Bulgaria, including for recreational and medicinal use, and the rules are strict. Even possessing a small amount can carry serious penalties, potentially including one to six years in prison and a fine.
• Penalties for trafficking and selling are considerably higher. Bringing cannabis products or other recreational drugs into Bulgaria is also illegal and can have serious consequences.