Packing Guide for the MotoGP Grand Prix of Catalunya at Barcelona

Grand Prix of Catalunya

Packing Guide

What to bring to Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya in mid-May

Important: strict bag and food policy

Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya does not allow outside food or drinks (except documented medical needs). Backpacks over 15 litres are refused at the gate. Plan your bag size carefully and budget to buy food inside the circuit.

Mid-May Weather

21°C

Average high

Variable

~6 rainy days in May

Strong UV

Most seats in full sun

Essentials — Do Not Forget

Sunscreen (SPF 50+)

Almost every seat at Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya is fully exposed. May sun in Catalonia is strong — UV index is moderate to high by mid-morning. Reapply at midday.

Hat or cap

Only the main grandstand (Tribuna) has a roof. Everywhere else you are in direct sun for the entire day. Wide-brim offers better protection than a baseball cap.

PET plastic bottle (up to 1.5L, no cap)

Plastic bottles are allowed inside if they are under 1.5 litres. No glass, no metal, and caps are typically removed at the entrance. Buy a sport-top or bring one without a standard cap.

Light rain jacket or poncho

May averages around 6 rainy days. Mediterranean spring weather is variable. A quick-dry rain layer adds little weight and saves the day if a storm rolls in.

Comfortable walking shoes

The circuit site is large. You will walk significantly between grandstands, food areas, and transport. Trainers or broken-in shoes — not sandals or flip-flops.

Power bank

Mobile signal weakens when 70,000+ fans hit the same towers. Your phone works harder, draining the battery faster. A power bank keeps you operational for navigation and tickets.

Ear protection

MotoGP bikes peak above 120dB. If you are in a grandstand near the main straight or Turn 1, earplugs are worth having. Foam earplugs take up almost no space.

Cash (euros)

Some food and merchandise vendors inside the circuit are cash-only. Having €20-30 in cash avoids problems.

Printed or screenshot ticket

Mobile signal can be unreliable at entry. Having your ticket already downloaded or printed avoids any gate issues.

Nice to Have

Binoculars

Useful for watching distant corners. Grandstand L covers multiple corners but some are 300-400m away.

Light layers for the morning

May mornings in Montmeló average 14°C. Bring a light hoodie or zip-up that you can remove when it warms up by midday.

Sunglasses

The grandstands face west in places. Afternoon sun directly in your eyes is a real issue if you are in an uncovered section facing the wrong direction.

Small backpack (under 15L)

The circuit prohibits backpacks over 15 litres. A small daypack keeps your hands free and passes security checks. Measure before you pack.

Prohibited Items

These will be confiscated at the security check. Do not bring:

  • Backpacks over 15 litres
  • Glass containers
  • Metal containers (cans, flasks)
  • Ceramic or wooden containers
  • Alcohol
  • Food and drinks from outside (except documented medical needs)
  • PET plastic bottles over 1.5 litres
  • Drones of any type
  • Sharp objects or knives
  • Sprays (deodorant, insect repellent in spray form)
  • Fireworks or pyrotechnics
  • Musical instruments
  • Laser pointers
  • Air horns
  • Bicycles, scooters, skateboards
  • Professional cameras with detachable lenses