Stay Relaxed, Look Stylish – The Ultimate Packing List for Your Spa Escape
A day at the spa or hammam is the perfect way to unwind, reset your mind, and nourish your body. But let’s be honest—part of the fun is arriving in style and feeling your best from the inside out. Whether you’re spending the day at a luxurious spa retreat, a modern wellness center, or a traditional Moroccan or Turkish hammam, what you pack can make or break your experience.
Here’s a detailed guide to what you should pack for a fashionable and stress-free spa or hammam day, balancing comfort, self-care, and effortless chic.
1. A Stylish, Comfortable Robe
While most spas and hammams provide robes, nothing beats bringing your own, especially one that reflects your personal style. Choose a robe that is soft, breathable, and flattering. Lightweight waffle cotton, bamboo fiber, or Turkish cotton are great materials. For a luxe touch, choose robes with subtle piping, a flattering belt, or a gentle drape that flatters your silhouette.
Neutral colors like white, soft grey, and beige offer a timeless look, but if you want to stand out, opt for dusty pinks, muted blues, or minimalist patterns.
2. Swimwear that Blends Fashion with Function
Most spas require swimwear, especially if you’ll be using communal areas like saunas, hydrotherapy pools, or steam rooms. A sleek one-piece in black or deep navy can offer elegance and support, while a high-waisted bikini in a solid color or simple print offers a retro-modern look.
Stay away from swimwear with metal hardware—it can become uncomfortably hot in saunas. Also, pack an extra suit if you’re going from water to dry treatments and want to avoid putting a damp suit back on.
3. Slip-On Sandals or Spa-Friendly Slippers
You’ll be walking between steam rooms, showers, and relaxation areas, so pack a pair of waterproof, non-slip sandals. Foam, rubber, or silicone slides are best. Leave anything heavy or hard to clean—like leather or suede—at home.
If you want to elevate your look, go for a minimalist pair in white or nude tones with subtle design accents like quilted straps or matte finishes.
4. Pestemal or Turkish Towel
For hammam-goers especially, a pestemal is essential. These thin, stylish towels are lightweight, highly absorbent, and dry quickly. They’re also multi-functional—you can use them as a wrap, towel, or even as a chic head covering post-shower.
Look for pestemals in neutral tones or earthy stripes for an authentic hammam experience with a modern fashion twist.
5. Hammam-Specific Essentials
If you’re visiting a traditional Moroccan or Turkish hammam, your packing list should include:
- Kessa glove – This exfoliating mitt is used for scrubbing off dead skin after applying black soap.
- Savon noir (black soap) – A natural olive-based soap used to soften the skin before exfoliation.
- Swim briefs or disposable undergarments – In some hammams, full nudity isn’t allowed, so bring comfortable alternatives.
Bringing your own products not only ensures quality but also helps you participate more fully in the ritualistic aspect of the hammam experience.
6. Personal Beauty Essentials
While the spa is all about minimalism, you still want to pack a few essentials:
- Facial mist – A cooling mist with rosewater or aloe can keep your skin hydrated between sessions.
- Lip balm – Steam and heat can dry out your lips fast.
- Silk scrunchie or hair tie – Secure your hair comfortably without damage.
- Travel-size moisturizer – Perfect for post-steam rehydration.
- Comb or brush – Especially helpful if you’re going from the spa straight to another event.
- Natural deodorant – Go aluminum-free for a skin-sensitive and eco-friendly choice.
If you’re doing makeup after your session, keep it light. A tinted moisturizer, cream blush, and lip tint go a long way for a glowing post-spa look.
7. Lounge Set or Cover-Up
Between treatments or while relaxing at the cafe or outdoor pool, you’ll want something cozy yet presentable. A chic linen lounge set, a loose jumpsuit, or a flowy maxi dress will keep you looking polished and feeling comfortable.
Don’t underestimate the power of stylish comfort—it sets the tone for your entire day.
8. Reusable Water Bottle
Staying hydrated is a must. Bring a sleek, reusable water bottle in glass or stainless steel. Many spas offer infused water stations, so having your own bottle ensures you’re always refreshed without generating plastic waste.
9. Entertainment or Mindfulness Tools
You’re there to relax, so bring items that help you tune out and decompress:
- A journal for jotting down reflections
- A good book or e-reader
- Noise-canceling headphones for guided meditations or relaxing music
While it’s tempting to scroll through your phone, taking a digital detox can make your experience more fulfilling.
10. A Stylish Tote Bag
Last but not least, pack everything into a medium-sized, water-resistant tote or weekender bag. Look for one with compartments for your damp items, beauty products, and sandals. Choose a neutral canvas bag with leather accents or a minimalist waterproof bag in a soft tone—it’s the first thing people will notice when you walk in, so let it reflect your style.
Final Thoughts
A spa or hammam day is more than just a treat—it’s a meaningful wellness ritual, especially when experienced at a place like The Old Hammam and Spa. When you arrive prepared with the perfect blend of comfort and fashion, your visit becomes effortlessly relaxing and stylish. From a flattering swimsuit and luxurious robe to a silk scrunchie and nourishing lip balm, every item you pack enhances the atmosphere of indulgence and serenity.
So go ahead—pack smart, stay chic, and immerse yourself in every skin-softening, soul-cleansing moment.
The Old Hammam and Spa is waiting to transport you into a world of timeless relaxation.
