Every trip to Greece promises an exciting vacation experience. Whether you’re going solo backpacking through the stunning natural landscapes of Naxos or planning to bask in the incredible sunsets of Santorini for your honeymoon, there’s always something exciting and wonderful to marvel at. That said, it’s important to remember that every travel destination has risks, and Greece is no exception. You don’t want your vacation to be marred by any sickness or incident you’re unprepared for—so here are five things to take for a safe trip to Greece:

Sunglasses

Strong UV rays are unavoidable in Greece, so protection is a must. And while everyone talks about wearing sunscreen, people often neglect choosing the right sunnies. If you use cheap shades, they might not provide adequate sun protection. By only blocking some light, they actually open your irises and expose them to the sun even more. That’s why buying pairs marked with 100% UVA and UVB protection from established brands is vital. Your sunglasses should also have lightweight, durable frames you can wear all day and polarized lenses to safeguard you from the sun’s glare. You can try the Sylas from the reliable activewear brand Oakley for this. It comes with patented PRIZM™ Lens technology and a hat-compatible design perfect for enhancing color, taking in your vivid surroundings, and topping your look.

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Money belt

The problem with visiting tourist hotspots in Greece is that pickpockets know these are crowded, convenient places to snatch people’s wallets and purses where their movements won’t draw notice. While your head’s turned by iconic attractions like the Acropolis of Athens or Knossos Palace, you might find your valuables taken right under your nose. Don’t let that happen. As much as possible, keep your important things in the hotel. If you must bring your belongings, utilize a money belt to keep your currency and small goods safe and within your sight and reach. The Raytix Travel Money Belt is a good choice, as it’s made from durable and waterproof ripstop nylon and fashioned with high-quality zippers.

Insect repellant

If you’re planning to travel to Greece during the golden summer months, watch out for “gnupies”—or mosquitoes in English. Greece’s government even put out a warning in 2023 about mosquitoes’ ability to transmit viruses like dengue fever or the Zika virus. Protect yourself from these pesky bugs by taking along a good repellent like the Jungle Formula Maximum Pump Spray, which contains 50% DEET—an effective active ingredient found in most repellants—but lacks the pungent odors of regular sprays. Plus, it promises protection for up to 9 hours.

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First aid kit

If your idea of a great Greek vacation includes heart-pumping activities, you have your choice of hiking the mythological Mount Olympus, sailing through Sporades of Mamma Mia fame, rock climbing Meteora, and more. However, those adventures come with risks. If you’re not careful, cycling by the Peloponnese coastline could end in an accident—and you don’t want your vacation marred because of that. Pack a first aid kit with antiseptic solution, bandages, and everything you need to fix an injury. You’ll also want to include some medications. Aspirins, antihistamines, and laxatives are the usual staples. If you’ll also be exploring the rich specialties of Greek cuisine, err on the side of caution by bringing electrolyte mix as well, which can help settle your stomach by rehydrating you and replacing your electrolytes.

Travel insurance documents

Travel insurance is a must for any trip abroad. With it, you’ll have the resources to deal with mishaps you might face, whether tripping on a rock near the Methana Volcano or luggage getting lost while you’re island-hopping. Try purchasing a deal from Insured Nomads, which has extensive travel-related coverage, including flight delays and accidents. Don’t forget to bring your insurance documents for a smoother experience if you need to make any claims!

You want your trip to Greece to be unforgettable because of its wondrous sights and experiences—not because of any untoward incidents. Bring these five things along to ensure your safety.