Packing list and what to wear on a ride on holiday
Long trousers, closed shoes, layers: that is how the packing list begins, then the weather decides.
What providers require for a ride, how to dress for place and season, and what to clarify with the provider beforehand.
The basics: what providers require
An offer in Bologna lists under “Please bring”: long trousers, closed shoes and comfortable shoes. As recommended clothing the provider names long trousers and closed shoes and, depending on the season, a T-shirt or sweater. The riding equipment is included in the price, plus an introduction and an experienced riding guide. For an offer on Mallorca the provider names tested helmets as included. These are statements of the providers for their rides. Ask what belongs to your ride.
Pack as a basic kit:
- long trousers you can sit in.
- closed shoes with a firm grip (according to the provider)
- clothing in layers that you can put on and take off.
- water for yourself.
Whether helmet, vest or riding equipment is supplied is stated by the provider. We give no assurance that any equipment protects.
Hot places: sun, water, early or late
In Seville the average high is 36.0 degrees in July, in Faro in Portugal 29.2 degrees, in Antalya in Turkey 34.2 degrees. In summer the start time decides. The Camargue nature park names for visitors in summer mosquito repellent, sun protection and water, plus marked paths and respect for private property. Pack for hot places:
- sun protection and headwear for breaks.
- water, more than you think you need.
- mosquito repellent in marsh and coastal areas (Camargue, Andalusia)
- light long trousers that do not stick.
Ask the provider about start time and water for the horses.
Cold places: layers, windproof, waterproof
Visit Finland gives layers as the golden rule because weather can change a lot in a day, wool stays warm even when wet, and in autumn waterproof outer layers matter. For Rovaniemi in winter (average temperatures of minus 10 to minus 20 degrees) Visit Finland advises thermal base layers, a windproof outer shell and insulated winter boots. Visit Reykjavík advises layers and a windproof, waterproof outer layer. In January temperatures there range from minus 1 to plus 4 degrees, and snow, rain and strong wind are common. Pack for Lapland and Iceland:
- thermal underwear and a wool layer.
- a windproof and waterproof outer layer.
- insulated boots (Lapland in winter)
Ask the provider which clothing it supplies and what it recommends for hands and head.
For all places: clarify before you leave
- Is there a minimum height or dress code?
- What does the provider supply (helmet, chaps, vest, rain clothing), what do you bring?
- Is there a weight limit, and does it suit you?
- What happens in bad weather?
Sources
- Visit Finland, Weather and climate in Finland, visitfinland.com/en/practical-tips/climate-and-weather-in-finland/ (layers, wool, waterproof outer layers in autumn, Rovaniemi minus 10 to minus 20 degrees in winter, thermal base layers, windproof shell, insulated boots). Read in the browser.
- Visit Reykjavík, visitreykjavik.is/reykjavik-weather-by-month (January minus 1 to plus 4 degrees, layers, windproof and waterproof). Read in the browser.
- AEMET, normal climate values Sevilla Aeropuerto 1981 to 2010 (July high 36.0). IPMA, Normal Climatológica Faro 1981 to 2010 (July 29.2). MGM, Antalya, 1930 to 2025 (July 34.2). Read.
- Parc naturel régional de Camargue, parc-camargue.fr (visitor advice: in summer mosquito repellent, sun protection, water, marked paths, private land). Read in the browser (French, translation by me).
- Offers: Viator pool and GetYourGuide hand cards, as of 11 October 2026.