What to bring?

Barcelona enjoys many warm and sunny Winter days, but temperatures at night can be cool. At worst, weather in Winter can be similar to that in Britain, although temperatures very rarely drop to freezing and rain is far less common. Very heavy showers of short duration are normal in Spring and Autumn, whilst summers are usually hot and dry, with temperatures frequently reaching over 30 degrees during the day. Humidity levels in July and August can be uncomfortably high.

Mosquitoes are very common throughout the year, with only February and March being relatively bug-free. Barcelona mosquitoes are large, difficult to hunt down and their bite can cause a severe allergic reaction for some people. Cover arms and legs in the evening, use repellent and burn a mosquito coil whilst asleep. These can be purchased in England and used in Spain with an approved plug adaptor.

Wet weather clothing, sun protection items and mosquito repellent are therefore essentials to bring for much of the year.

 

Check List

  Passport and photocopy; passports should be left with other valuables in the hotel safe. The passport photocopy should be carried at all times.

  European Health Insurance Card ( which replaces the old E111 reciprocal medical treatment form). You can apply online at www.ehic.org.uk or via a form from any Post Office.

  Changes of clothing, including smart dress for urban fieldwork. Girls should bring trousers and/or jeans for leg protection at fieldwork sites. Long sleeve clothing helps to prevent mosquito bites. Old clothing is essential for work at 'dirty' sites such as the variety of burned zones on the Garraf Massif. Wellington boots/old trainers should be brought for river work.

  Wet weather clothing.

  Strong shoes/boots.

  Sun cream, hat, sunglasses, water bottle.

  Mosquito repellent.

  Mosquito plug-in liquid repellent burner for use in the hotel room: available for €7, but please order in advance of your visit.

  Plug adaptor for U.K. appliances such as a hair dryer.

  Fieldwork notebook.

  Pens, pencils, ruler, protractor, compass, calculator, rubber, pencil sharpener. Pencil sharpeners and compasses should not be carried in hand luggage.

  Camera and film.

  Binoculars for use in the Llobregat and Ebro deltas and the Garrotxa Volcanic Natural Park.

  Money for incidental purchases.

  Essential prescribed medicines if appropriate.

Staff should bring a list of student names, passport numbers, emergency contact telephone numbers, details of travel insurance, emergency telephone numbers, appropriate dietary and medical information... and the final balance cheque!