How to Receive Post in Spain as a Vanlifer (Using CityPaq & Other Handy Tips)
Living on the road full-time is freeing as feck — but it does come with some logistical headaches. One of the most common questions I get is: How do you receive mail while living in a van, especially abroad? If you’re in Spain, there’s actually a brilliant solution: CityPaq.
Here’s everything you need to know about how to receive post as a vanlifer in Spain — including how to use CityPaq lockers, and a few other sneaky options I’ve used while roaming España!
What is CityPaq?
CityPaq is a locker-based delivery system run by Correos, Spain’s national postal service. Think of it like Amazon Lockers, but yellow and more widespread. It allows you to receive parcels (and in some cases letters) to a secure locker — perfect if you’re constantly on the move and don’t have a fixed address.
You’ll find them at petrol stations, shopping centres, train stations, supermarkets, even outside post offices. Some are open 24/7, which is perfect if you’re hopping between locations and don’t know your schedule.
How to Use CityPaq as a Vanlifer
- Register for a free account on the Correos CityPaq website or app.
- Choose a CityPaq locker location you’ll be near — you don’t need to live there, just be close enough to collect within a few days of delivery.
- When shopping online, use the locker address provided in your CityPaq profile as your delivery address.
- You’ll get a QR code or PIN when your item is ready to collect.
- Go to the locker, scan your code, and voilà — you’ve got mail!
⚠️ Important Tip: Some sellers won’t deliver to lockers, so double-check before ordering. Amazon Spain, for example, has its own locker system, but many vendors will happily send to CityPaq.
Alternatives to CityPaq
If CityPaq doesn’t work for you (or isn’t available nearby), here are some other options:
- Amazon Lockers (Spain): Amazon has its own network of lockers across Spain, separate from CityPaq. When checking out on Amazon.es, you can choose to have your parcel delivered to a nearby locker. These are super reliable and can be found in most cities and towns. Just select “Amazon Locker” at checkout and follow the instructions. If you’re ordering from the UK or Ireland, make sure the item is eligible for international delivery to Spain — many are, but double-check the seller’s terms.
- Poste Restante (Lista de Correos): You can have mail sent to a local post office under your name. Go in with ID to collect it.
- Hostels or Campsites: Some are happy to accept mail for guests — just message ahead and ask to make sure!
- Friends in Spain: If you know anyone living locally, you can sometimes send parcels to their address and pick up when nearby.
Bonus Tip: Make a Checklist
When ordering something important abroad:
- ✅ Confirm the item can be delivered to CityPaq or your chosen address
- ✅ Track your order religiously
- ✅ Check locker size limitations (not everything will fit!)
- ✅ Have ID ready if picking up at a post office
Final Thoughts
Receiving post living in a van as a vanlifer doesn’t have to be a nightmare — especially in Spain where systems like CityPaq exist. A little bit of planning goes a long way. So whether you’re ordering new gear, getting a care package from family or friends, or replacing something you’ve broken (again), you’ve got options.
Save this blog for your next Spanish road trip — and don’t forget to send yourself a little treat while you’re at it. You deserve it.
👉 Travelling Ireland too? Here’s how to receive post while living in a van in Ireland.
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