What to pack for a spa weekend?

What sort of clothes do you wear to a spa?

Each spa is different in their approach to acceptable attire but as a good rule of thumb you must be clothed in public areas around the hotel in a robe or your own clothes, and in swimwear/robe and flip flops around the spa area. At dinner you may be asked to wear smart casual clothing and during breakfast and lunch in some spas it is acceptable to dine in your robe or own clothes. It’s a good idea to check with reception before you attend to avoid an embarrassing scenario. 

Around the spa pool, jacuzzi/sauna and any relaxation rooms that the spa may facilitate you are expected to wear swimwear whether that be swimming trunks, bikinis, swimming costumes. You are also allowed to wear swimming caps and bring goggles for any underwater swimming, the rules are pretty relaxed in this part of the spa. In some cases there may be a ‘ladies only’ or ‘men only’ sauna or steam room where it is generally more acceptable to take your swimwear off and embrace it naked, but don’t worry this isn’t a compulsory rule, just for the comfort of those that want to do so.

How many pairs of swimwear do I need to take to a spa?

Depending on how long you’re staying for you should pack a minimum of 2 sets of swimwear even if it’s one for the morning and one for the afternoon, as most spas don’t have drying facilities. If you’re staying for longer than a few days you can ask about housekeeping carrying out laundry services, although these will come at an extra charge. 

For a one or two night’s stay you may be able to dry your swimwear on a hanger in your room, and in the summer months you may be able to dry your costume outside. Some spas may have a swimwear spin cycle machine in the changing rooms where you can squeeze out the majority of excess water, but this won’t dry it completely. 

What toiletries do I need to bring to a spa?

For the most part if you’re staying overnight your room will be accommodated with shampoo, conditioner and a body lotion, along with hand soap and maybe a shower cap or box of tissues. These all come complementary and can be very useful. However if you’re not keen on jumping out of your hair care routine you can always bring your own. You will need to bring your toothbrush and a toothpaste but everything else is there for you. 

In the spa and changing rooms you will find hairdryers, sometimes cotton pads and a face moisturiser to use. There are also towels available to pick up and use at any time and if your robe gets wet or you wish to change it, you can do so by returning it to reception. On arrival you are given flip-flops to wear around the spa for comfort and to avoid dirty shoes being worn around the pool and spa areas, so it’s recommended you keep hold of these throughout your stay and in most cases you can take home with you. 

Can I bring my mobile phone into the spa?

It’s good practise to leave your phone in your locker in the changing rooms at the spa and some places may require you to not go on your phone during meal times, or specifically dinner. However there are plenty of places around the hotel including your room with free wifi and the space for you to make a call or scroll Instagram as you please. 

Do I have to book a spa treatment to use the spa?

No, you can attend the spa and use all facilities including the pool, gym, any classes (some at extra charge) as well as sauna and steam rooms. If you do wish to book a treatment you can do so at any point during your stay, providing there is availability. Generally your food or drinks bills as well as any extras like spa treatments are added to a tab that you pay when you leave the spa.