travel to europe packing list

The Complete 2-Week Europe Packing List

Last Updated on November 15, 2023

by Maggie Turansky

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

Putting together a 2-week Europe packing list can prove incredibly difficult regardless if it’s your first trip to the continent or if you are a seasoned traveller.

Especially if you’re trying to travel light and minimalistically, prioritising things for your trip to Europe can be a bit tricky. We have travelled extensively all over Europe and have refined this ultimate packing list in order to ensure that you have everything you need, but also not too much!

So if you’re after the perfect packing list for Europe, then look no further. We’re here to make sure that you’re perfectly well-equipped for your trip without bringing one item too many in your limited space!

Table of Contents

Europe Packing Tips

Before I jump right into what you actually need to pack for Europe, we do need to discuss a few things in order to ensure that you are completely prepared to leave on your trip to Europe.

One of the most important things to be aware of is the season where you’re travelling, along with the region. Europe is vast with an array of varied climates and what you need to bring to be prepared largely depends on where and when you are visiting.

What you eventually end up taking with you really inevitably comes down to if you’re visiting Europe in winter or summer, northern or southern Europe.

Another thing to keep in mind when you’re planning out a packing list for visiting Europe is just how much you plan to bring with you.

It can be really hard to know what you’ll need or use on your trip, especially if you haven’t travelled much in Europe before. However, it is always a great idea to try to limit the amount of stuff you cart around with you.

Packing light can be a lot more pleasant in almost every aspect of travelling, from not having to worry about the weight limits on airlines or hauling your bags up stairs, through train stations and luggage racks.

Packing light also has the added benefit of making your things a lot easier to pack up and move when you move destination. It is unlikely that you will plan to stay in just one location on your trip and you don’t want to have to unpack and repack a bunch of different things every few days – not only is this simply a pain, it can also be very stressful.

The packing list below is quite minimalist, however, in times of travelling for similar-length trips to Europe, I’ve found that it is beyond sufficient.

When it comes to selecting items of clothing, especially, try to stray away from anything that you cannot mix and match and, often, opting for darker colours can be a great option.

Thinking more in the mindset of bringing a small capsule wardrobe rather than individual outfits to wear will help you be able to pack light while also mixing and matching to create a new look every day.

The other tip when it comes to packing light is to find accommodation that offers laundry facilities. Planning to do a wash while on the road will allow you not to have to bring so many things considering the fact that you can do a load of laundry mid-way through your trip.

Many hotels and hostels offer laundry services or, alternatively, you could find an Airbnb that has a washing machine you could use yourself. Laundromats are also always an option, though I can’t imagine it’s the preferable option considering the limited amount of time you have when it comes to exploring Europe.

Finally, when it comes to bringing items such as a hairdryer, curling iron or straightener, I would recommend refraining from this.

The vast majority of accommodations will have at least a hairdryer on-site and, especially if you’re travelling to Europe from North America, the voltage in the plugs is completely different and you risk completely ruining your devices should you use them, even if you are using an adaptor.

All in all, there are a number of things that one needs to take into consideration when figuring out what to pack for Europe. Follow the guidelines below and you should be perfectly well-equipped for your trip!

Ultimate Packing List for Europe

This ultimate Europe packing list is perfect for those looking to pack light and be a bit more minimalist in their adventure. While this certainly isn’t a complete bare-bones packing list for those who want to, say, travel carry-on only, it is good for those looking to not bring everything but the kitchen sink.

This is intended that you pack in a larger main piece of luggage (whether that be a travel backpack , wheeled backpack or traditional suitcase) along with a smaller piece of carry-on luggage such one from Level8 .

If you want to keep your items all organised then we also suggest using some packing cubes like the Eagle Creek Pack-It Compression Cubes

This checklist is also appropriate for all sexes and genders, just pick and choose some things as they don’t apply to you.

Figuring out what kind of clothing to bring is arguably the most important and most difficult thing about packing for Europe.

As mentioned earlier, it’s always a great idea to opt for neutral colours and items that you can mix and match to ensure that you can have some variety in your outfits without having to bring too many things and take up necessary valuable space in your luggage.

• Depending on the season or region of Europe you’re visiting, either bring a mixture of long-sleeve and short-sleeve tops, just long-sleeve or just short-sleeve tops to wear in Europe.
• I always recommend bringing one or two nicer tops or button-down shirts along with more casual t-shirts or tops. We like Bluffworks t-shirts as they’re both practical and also look good!
• Bringing one pair of jeans and one pair of another type of trouser is a great idea or one pair of lighter jeans and one pair of darker jeans. Having at least one pair of pants that can be dressed up is always a good idea
• You can browse some of our the best options in our best pants for travel in Europe guide.
• I, personally, love Bluffworks’ dresses , which have concealed pockets, a classic and flattering cut and can be dressed up or dressed down depending on the situation. Oh, it also is wrinkle-resistant and fully machine washable.
• If you’re visiting Southern Europe or simply travelling in the summer months, then having one or two pairs of shorts can be a great idea, especially when you need to keep cool or are heading to the beach.
• If your trip is during winter, having a tank top or light base layer will keep you warm without having to result in a bulky coat or jacket.
• Depending on the season or region, a cosy wool sweater or a light cardigan is a great idea when packing for 2 weeks in Europe. It can also be a good idea if you bring one that can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion (are you seeing a trend here?).
• Of course, you likely don’t need to include a jacket at all if you’re travelling to, say southern Spain or Malta in July, however, depending on the season, a warm, lightweight jacket is always a good idea for your trip.
• We recommend a packable down jacket ( click here for men’s version ), however, we have written a detailed guide for the best jacket for Europe depending on your needs.
• No matter the region or season, a rain jacket is always a good idea, as you can get caught out in a storm regardless of where and when you are travelling.
• We love the North Face Resolve ( click here for men’s version) as it has consistently kept us warm and dry in the rainiest of conditions.
• How much underwear you bring really depends on at what point in your trip you want to do laundry. If you want to avoid washing at all, then go ahead and bring 14 or 15 pairs of underwear. They do take up valuable space, however.
• Like underwear, how many socks (and the kinds of socks) you bring really depends on your shoe preference and just how often you want to do laundry.
• Bringing a swimming suit is a great idea even if you’re not going to a seaside destination. You never know when you may go to a bathhouse, sauna or pool on your Europe trip no matter the season.
• If you happen to be travelling to a beachy destination like Italy or Spain , consider bringing 2 pairs so you have time to dry each suit between wearings.
• I, personally, like to bring one regular bra and one sports bra, but this really depends on your needs and preferences.
• If you’re not a pajamas person, then don’t bother. I am, so I bring them. One pair for 2 weeks is sufficient.

Shoes take up A LOT of space in your luggage so limiting the footwear you bring on your Europe trip can be the ticket for maximising the space in your bags.

We have a complete guide on the best shoes for Europe to help you pick the right footwear for you. This is just what we recommend bringing when you’re compiling a packing list for 2 weeks.

• A good pair of sturdy, stylish walking sneakers is essential. Pick comfortable walking shoes that you can walk in for hours and kilometres and not have sore feet.
• I, personally, love the Ecco Soft 7 trainers and wear them all the time. For a men’s version consider the Ecco Soft 7 Runner.
• Choose your second pair of shoes depending on your style and the season you’re travelling in.
• If you’re an active traveller, are visiting a largely outdoor destination, or simply plan to do a bit of walking and hiking, then a good pair of hiking boots such as the Merrell Siren Edge for women ( available on REI here ) or Merrell Moab 2 for men ( available on REI here ) is essential.
• Small, compact, and helpful for everywhere from the beach to a hostel shower to a public pool, a pair of flip flops should always make it into your luggage!

Accessories

Whether fashion accessories or handy electronic gadgets, some of these are absolutely essential items to bring with you on your trip to Europe!

• The most important accessory of them all!
• Perfect for add a splash of style to any outfit, sipping over your head or shoulders if you’re visiting a church, using as a makeshift blanket, and also for its traditional use, a scarf is absolutely necessary to bring with you no matter the season.
• A warm hat to keep you toasty in the winter in Europe is always welcome, as is a sun hat to protect you from the harsh rays during summer in Europe.
• An essential item on any winter packing list!
• A solid anti-theft handbag like the PacSafe Cityscape or day pack is perfect for keeping your valuables safe and secure while you’re out and about sightseeing and exploring.
• Buying water and using plastic water bottles is a thing of the past. There are an infinite number of great water bottles for travelling to choose from like a Hydro Flask and you’ll never need to buy a single-use plastic bottle again.
• If you’re more serious about your photography than simply relying on your phone, then bringing a good camera is a great idea.
• We love the Sony A6400 for its high-quality images at a decent starting budget and there being several great travel lenses to use with it. Make sure to bring extra memory cards!
• You always need to have something good to read, but don’t want to pack a bunch of heavy books to bring with you – a Paperwhite Kindle solves all of these problems and it is an absolutely essential item if you love to read.
• Buy a prepaid SIM card like the Orange 20GB SIM either as physical SIM or eSIM to ensure you can stay connected in Europe.
• Finding a universal plug adaptor with a number of different USB drives is a fantastic option and is an absolutely essential item when travelling to Europe from elsewhere in the world!
• Finally, a power bank will give you peace of mind should your phone die while you are out and about or if you forget to give something a much-needed charge when you need to use it.
• Making sure you have an adequate number of charging cords for all of your devices will ensure that you can make sure everything can get the best battery life possible.
• World Nomads   offers flexible and simple travel insurance policies with coverage for more than 150 activities that you can buy or extend while on the road.
• SafetyWing offers travel medical insurance policies that can are an option for long term budget travellers.
• Save your money and landfill space and forgo the travel-sized toiletries for refillable bottles of your shampoo and conditioner. We love GoToobs .
• You might want to bring earplugs if you’re staying at a hostel or budget accommodation where street noise can be an issue or for your flight.
• To avoid unnecessary spills in your toiletry bag, we recommend using a bar soap rather than a shower gel, but this is really up to you
• Keep your dry skin nice and hydrated!
• Bring as little makeup as you need. Personally, I limit myself to one lipstick, one eyeliner, mascara, a small eye shadow palette, foundation and a few brushes. I also make sure I have facial cleansing wipes for makeup removal and just to wash my face at the end of the day.
• If you’re a lens wearer, you need to pack this!
• Blisters and cuts happen, best to be prepared rather than have to hunt for a pharmacy to find these things while travelling.
• While you can get ibuprofen and the other over-the-counter pretty much everywhere, it’s always nice to have it on hand should a headache threaten to put a damper in your Europe trip. Ditto with other OTC medications you take regularly.

Piecing together the Europe packing list for 2 weeks doesn’t have to be all that difficult if you take into consideration all of the things outlined above. Think minimally and pack light and you’re sure to have a fantastic time on your adventure — wherever it may be that you’re going!

Are you trying to figure out what to pack for two weeks in Europe? Was this packing list helpful for your trip? Let us know in the comments!

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About Maggie Turansky

Maggie is a co-founder and writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from the US, she has lived in five different countries and has travelled to dozens more, both solo and with her partner, Michael. She particularly loves exploring Spain and spending time in the Caucasus and the Baltics. Read more about Maggie

This is a great comprehensive list. It helps to prioritize what is really essential and can serve as a thorough starting point even if you want to tweak it some to meet your needs. I would add socks, belt and 1 or two costume jewelry pieces to the list.

Great list. I reviewed it against my list and they were pretty close. I have been reading your other articles and they have been most helpful. Many thanks!

This is very helpful. Thanks. I always seems to pack too much. Helen

Can most of this fit in a carry on and a personal bag?

This can be really dependent on the kind of bag, how you pack and the airline’s requirements! Sorry I couldn’t be more helpful 🙂

Thanks this was very helpful for a first time traveler 😉

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Ultimate Europe Packing List – Printable and Editable

Nobody likes packing. Keeping everything in mind, this is the most dreaded part of traveling. As you probably know, packing for a trip to Europe is different from traveling in your home country – you have to think about the extra documents, flight regulations, different climate, and the way of transportation. To help you keep everything in order, I created this smart, editable, and printable Europe Packing List that is easy to use! Read on to find out all of the tips and tricks along the way!

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I may earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.  

Packing for Europe Tips and Tricks

Check visa regulations and documents you need.

Are you going on a study abroad trip to Europe? Or are you going there for a vacation? How long are you planning to stay? This will determine whether or not you will need to apply for a visa. If you are an American citizen and you are planning a short vacation to Europe, you may be in the clear – depending on the country you’re visiting, all you will need is your passport. But, if you have any questions or doubts, better check with the consulate website of the country you are going to – better be safe than sorry.

Leave Some Space in Your Suitcase for Souvenirs

Pack the things you will absolutely need, you will want to buy some things on your trip. I try to buy something unusual and special in each country I go to. But don’t buy magnets and key chains. That’s one of the main travel mistakes I mention in my guide. Look for something you will actually use.

Be Aware of Pickpockets

In most European countries, especially bigger cities like Rome, Barcelona, or London, you may be a target of pickpockets. But, it doesn’t mean it’s dangerous. Always be aware of your belongings and don’t show your expensive camera, phone, or wallet unless you absolutely need to. Keep your money in several different places in case something does end up stolen.

Know What You Can and Can’t Pack

Planning ahead will ease your travel experience at the airport. Know what you can pack in your carry-on and checked bags by reviewing this TSA page . A good rule to go by is to pack all of your liquids in your checked bag and all of your valuables in the carry-on. For more carry-on and packing, see the Europe Packing List below!

Common question: How to Maximize Space in My Luggage?

To maximize space in your luggage, I usually roll my clothes instead of folding them. This saves space and helps prevent wrinkles. Additionally, using compression bags or packing cubes can help organize and compress your clothes, allowing you to fit more items into your luggage. If you’re really tight on space, try packing versatile clothing items that can be mixed and matched to create multiple outfits, reducing the number of garments you need to pack. Finally, make use of any empty spaces within your luggage, such as stuffing socks or underwear inside your shoes, to optimize every inch of space.

Bring all the Travel Essentials

Some things you can do without, others, not so much. I always pack the items below in my suitcase and so should you!

• Good Headphones : Bring a pair of headphones, I always use them on long layovers and on flights, they cancel out the noise and are super comfortable. If I’m traveling with someone, I also grab a headphone jack splitter so that I can watch Netflix together with my travel companion. 
• Daypack or large purse : You’ll need something to carry your phone, camera, and water while you’re out exploring. Here is the one I love , big enough and converts into a backpack.
• Travel Adapter : If you are traveling to Europe, you need a reliable travel adapter, one that won’t burn your expensive electronics at first use. This travel adapter can be used in the USA, Europe, the United Kingdom, and Australia, so you won’t have to buy a separate adapter for every adventure.
• SPF Cream : Grab an SPF moisturizer – and don’t forget to put on sunscreen!
• Water Bottle : Airports, trains, hotels – I always take a water bottle with me. It’s good for the environment, it reminds me to drink more, and water actually costs money in European restaurants and cafes. Get one on Amazon and always take it with you!

How to Pack for a Trip to Europe

Let’s start with the basics – choosing the right type of luggage. That depends on the length of the trip and how many places you are traveling to.

When I go to Europe, I travel for more than a month and usually take one suitcase, a backpack, and a purse (which goes inside the backpack during flights).

I prefer a large soft-shell suitcase with 4 wheels as it’s the easiest to carry and fits more with less weight. Hard-shell suitcases seem to have less space, be heavier and crack very easily.

I also take this travel backpack for my computer, camera, phone, and documents. You can have them as carry-ons for the flight (usually for free). I also usually pack one day of clothing in it in case my checked-in luggage gets lost. I prefer spacious backpacks with a lot of pockets to store everything.

A travel purse , big enough for your camera and money is great to use as a daypack when you are exploring. It will also be more comfortable than a backpack – you won’t look as much as a tourist.

Whichever you end up choosing, make sure it will fit your Europe Packing List for the time of your travels. Some other tips – choose a unique color that will stand out from all the black bags. It will be easier to notice and it will decrease the chance of someone taking it.

What to Wear on the Long Flight

With multiple layovers and a long time on the plane, always dress comfortably. Wear jeans and a warm shirt. Also, wear the heaviest shoes you are taking, I usually have tennis shoes or winter boots (depending on the season). That way you will have less to carry and more space in your suitcase.

Ultimate Europe Packing List

What to pack in the carry-on.

• Any Other Valuables or Expensive Items
• About $200 of cash in local currency – you might need cash for a train ticket from the airport and the airport exchange rate is usually horrible.
• Personal ID/Student ID card – If you’re a student, some companies offer discount cards to help you save when you are traveling
• Frequent flyer cards and other loyalty program cards
• Cash and debit/credit cards – Call your bank before you travel to inform them (otherwise they might freeze your account)
• Travel and health insurance documents
• Reservations and itineraries
• Water Bottle – a water bottle is a must when you travel, see the water bottle I recommend above.
• Daily Medications – even when you are traveling, stay on top of your daily medications and have some extras in case of emergency. This year I took melatonin which helped me sleep on the plane and get over jet lag in one day!
• Underwear and One Day of Clothes – great to have in case your checked bag arrives late or is lost.
• Face Wipes – always nice to freshen up when you travel!
• A pen (always grab a pen when you travel, you may need one if you have to fill out customs forms)
• Chapstick and lotion (the air is always so dry in-flights, you’ll be glad you had it!)
• A good snack – as long as it’s wrapped and isn’t liquid, it can go through security in your carry-on. It’s cheaper and better than buying a snack at the airport or in-flight. I take nuts, a protein bar, and Trail Butter , my newest find – it’s 750 calories in one serving and the coffee and dark chocolate flavor is addicting!

Travel Tip: How to manage jet lag?

Managing jet lag during flights to Europe is always a challenge. Normally, it helps to adjust to a new time zone if I’m able to sleep on the plane. To fall asleep on the plane easier, I usually book overnight flights and pack Melatonin , a sleeping mask , and a travel pillow . I also try to stay hydrated before and during the flight and avoid alcohol and caffeine consumption. Once I get to the destination, I drink coffee and have a good breakfast. After, I found it really helpful to take a shower and try to stay out exploring the new place for as long as possible before going to sleep.

Clothes to Pack in the Suitcase for a Trip to Europe

Clothing Tip #1: See the extended weather forecast for your destinations on Accuweather.com .

Check it a couple of days before you leave, too. Your clothing will depend on the season, the weather, your destination, and the length of your stay. Generally, pack a couple of pants and several shirts to match. Also, grab a couple of dresses and comfortable walking shoes. You should be set to go!

Clothing Tip #2: Europeans have a different clothing style.

Cargo shorts, tennis shoes, and baseball caps will make you stand out. Go for loafers like this with thick soles to stay comfortable on cobblestone roads instead of tennis shoes. Or, wear a blouse instead of a T-shirt. That way you will not stand out and will be less likely to be pickpocketed.

Clothing Tip #3: Take some special occasion clothing options.

If you are planning on visiting churches, grab a headscarf you might need to enter. If you are going to a Viennese opera, bring a nice outfit and shoes to wear. Think about the experiences you would enjoy and pack accordingly.

What to Wear – Europe Packing List

• Lightweight clothing that can be layered
• Long-sleeved shirts
• 1 Sweater or jacket (depending on the weather)
• Pants and/or shorts (depending on the season)
• Dresses and/or skirts (depending on the length of stay)
• Walking shoes
• Scarf (in case you visit a church or get cold)
• Rain jacket or umbrella

Toiletry Bag Checklist

If you’re flying, make sure to put your toiletry bag in your checked luggage. You can only bring liquids, gels, aerosols, creams, and pastes of 3.4 ounces (100ml) or less per container in your carry-on. If you do, put them in a clear, plastic, ziplock bag.

Instead, take a hanging toiletry bag on your trip – it will help you keep all of your toiletries organized and it’s so easy to pack up and go. If you are planning to invest in something new for your vacation, this toiletry bag is life-changing!

Pack these essentials in your toiletry bag:

• Toothbrush, toothpaste, floss
• Hairbrush, hair ties, and bobby pins
• Conditioner (could be provided in the hotel)
• Sunscreen and face lotion with SPF
• Face wash and/or makeup remover wipes and Q-tips
• Personal hygiene items
• Contacts and solution
• Prescription medicine with the label
• Cologne/perfume
• Personal mini mirror
• Hair products
• Nail clippers and tweezers (also in checked luggage)

Travel First Aid Kit

• First aid kit (bandages, gauze, adhesives, etc.)
• Cold medicines and throat lozenges
• Diarrhea/laxative medicines
• Allergy medicines
• Hydrocortisone cream/antibacterial ointment
• Sunburn relief
• Insect repellent
• Motion sickness pills or bands

What Not to Pack for a Trip to Europe

Here is a list of items you shouldn’t take with you, they will just weigh you down:

• Too many electronics
• Too many clothes – you might want to get something while you are there
• Hair straighteners, blow dryers and other small electronics – they will burn out because of the power differences
• New Shoes – bring your most comfortable shoes, you’ll be doing a lot of walking
• Towels – hotels and hostels usually provide them
• Too much cash
• Expensive jewelry

I recommend taking as little as you can – go through your packing list and take out everything you can live without for a couple of weeks. I included a laptop just in case you need it for school or work, otherwise, keep it at home as well!

Overpacking is one of the Common Travel Mistakes we all make. Keep them in mind!

Get a Smart Printable Europe Packing List

Get this free smart, printable, and editable Europe Packing List ! You will be able to change the days of stay on your trip and it will tell you exactly how much and what your need to pack for your trip! Pretty handy, huh?

Ready to go? Here is your last-minute checklist:

• Double-check that your passports and IDs aren’t expired.
• Inform your bank about the countries you are visiting so they don’t freeze your credit card.
• Email yourself a copy of your passport, driver’s license, medical cards and itinerary, so that you always have it handy.
• To prevent pick-pocketing and stay safe, keep your valuables underneath your clothing. Check out this Money belt , neck wallet , or a Bra Stash to keep your valuables close to your body and away from pickpockets.
• Save this Printable Europe Packing List to refer to as you are packing.

Traveling to Europe – More Tips and Hacks

The best thing about traveling in Europe is how easy it is to travel from one country to another, going from one unique culture to the next. Once you get there, you can go by plane, train, bus or car and within a few hours you can reach your destination. Here are a few tips for your upcoming trip to save money and enjoy your stay! Do you want to know my secrets about how I travel abroad every year while working full-time? Read my tips on how to travel more and how to travel on a budget !

Use Buses and Trains Between Destinations

Each European country has very easy-to-use and fast bus and train systems. They are usually pretty cheap and you can use them to go on day trips from one place to another without spending your entire day in the airport.

On my latest trip to Europe, I took Flixbus from Prague to Vienna to Budapest. It’s very affordable and easy to hop on and hop off in a new destination.

Do Not Take a Taxi

Don’t even take a taxi from the airport. Most airports have a cheaper way to get from the airport to the city center. Last time, we got from the airport to our hotel in Barcelona for 1 Euro on a train! It would have been over 30 euros if we took a taxi! Do some research about the city you are going to and buy passes. It will save you money while you are using public transport!

One other pro to using public transport in a new country is a new adventure and seeing the way locals commute there. I love comparing public transport in different countries and no one can compete with Europe on that.

Be Picky About the Place You Eat

Millions of tourists visit Europe every year and restaurants have found the best ways to make money on it. There are high chances of falling into a tourist trap if you don’t do research on places to eat in each destination. Use platforms like Likealocal.com or just Google reviews before you decide to eat somewhere. This tip will save you a lot of money and add great food experiences to your trip.

Travel in the Off-Season

Traveling during the off-season is the only way to avoid crowds and save money on tickets and hotels. While most places are open year-round, they are usually booked in the summer. If at all possible, go for a month before everyone else arrives or choose less touristy destinations.

Bring Comfortable Shoes to Walk Everywhere

I’ve mentioned this before and will say again: you will be glad you have comfortable walking shoes. Bring your favorite pair – you won’t regret it.

Don’t Plan on Using Credit Cards Everywhere

Bring a couple hundred euros on hand for tips, public transport, and purchases at local markets.

Order foreign currency at your bank, don’t use the currency exchange at the airport upon arrival. Airport ATMs don’t always have the best exchange rates, so plan ahead if you like to save.

See more of my Europe Travel Tips to enjoy, save money, and stay safe!

Are you a fellow traveler what is a thing you can’t go without.

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21 Comments

This is a really good informative article! Me and my partner were in Europe (Rome) last year, we knew about being aware of pick pockets and held onto our belongings like mad haha! Thanks for the post.

So true about the cargo shorts and clothing style! Thanks for the great list too!

These are great tips. I also like to consolidate my European travel packing. I’d add that think of dressing well. Europeans tend to dress up more than Americans, so think of wool pants/skirts, dresses, dress jackets, etc. if you want to blend in.

Also that toiletry bag looks amazing!!

Wow this is so detailed, I absolutely LOVE IT! I seriously will send this to all of my friends who need help packing for their summer Europe trips!

Hahaha, I love how every travel to Europe guide somehow thinks that European’s don’t wear t-shirts. Honestly, we do so most days. Just leave the football shirts at home. A simple black or white t-shirt will however not make you stick out. I totally agree with you though on the credit card. Many small businesses and restaurants in Europe don’t accept cards. As for picking a restaurant, the same rule applies as everywhere else. If they need to pay a person to invite people in: run for your life!

You’re right! About clothing: after living in the United States I can notice the difference in style right away! Thanks for the comment!!

Very detailed insights! I think most of these apply to other destinations as well; thus, really helpful! Thank you for sharing it.

Oh my goodness this is such a great article especially if you are like me and have never been to Europe….this not only makes me want to go but would feel totally confident doing so simply by arming myself with your article! So much amazing information in one spot and I wouldn’t have even thought about dress like they dress so you don’t stand out! Thank you for sharing your wisdom with us and maybe one day I’ll have the pleasure of going!!

Very thorough and practical. I love this with the printable included. Greta advice on how not to stand out, and caps tend to be part of my daily uniform:). I will leave them at home.

I wished I read this before my study abroad trip in Spain! These are great tips and I recommend following most/all of them. Can’t wait to read some more!

Thank you! I wish I had known some of these before the trip, too!

Really great article! Love how detailed everything was. You put a lot of time and great info into this and it shows!

Thank you so much, I really appreciate your support!

I really admire your writing!

This post was so helpful and full of information. I really enjoyed the fact that you used your hands on experience to give all these tips. I will be traveling to Europe in January and will definitely be using this list.

Great list! The best advice is to not travel with new shoes. There’s too much walking done to deal with blisters caused by new shoes.

This is such an amazing list and I’m so glad you made it such an easy printable!! Saving this post for later!

I always keep this tip in mind: “Leave Some Space in Your Suitcase for Souvenirs” because I am a shopper at heart. This post was amazing!

I am closing in on retirement and plan to travel more. This is excellent advice that I will be able to put to use next year!

I love your extensive list. I never traveled on a long trip but have family members who are planning a trip to Europe. This will be an awesome resource for them. Thanks for sharing.

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Travel Europe on a Budget

The Savvy Backpacker

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Europe packing list | the ultimate packing list for visiting europe.

The ultimate Europe packing list. Advice for choosing clothes, toiletries, shoes, electronics, luggage, and more for Europe.

Packing for your trip to Europe can be stressful so I’ve put together my  Europe packing list . This mega packing list will cover everything from clothes and luggage to electronics and toiletries. I’ve even tried to include specific packing tips for summer travel and winter travel.

Interested in packing tips for backpacking Europe? We’ve created a Backpacking Europe Packing List For Women and Backpacking Europe Packing List For Men . 

Europe Packing List

This Europe packing list is very extensive so here is a quick rundown of what you’ll see in this guide. Keep reading to see everything.

Rolling Luggage

• Travel Backpacks

Packing Cubes

Packing folders.

• Toiletry Bags

Travel Underwear

• Travel Socks
• Shoes For Travel
• Shirts & Tops For Travel
• Jeans, Pants, & Bottoms
• Outerwear For Travel
• Winter Clothing

Travel Towel

• Travel Flashlights
• Eyemask & Earplugs
• Water Bottle
• Sleep Sheets
• Travel Laundry

Travel Utensils

• Electric Plug Adapters

Travel Power Strip

• Phone Chargers

Digital Camera

• Travel Hairdryer & Straightener
• Shampoo/Conditioner/Body Wash
• Toothpaste & Toothbrush
• Travel Toilet Paper
• Wet Wipes/Baby Wipes
• Body Powder
• Pepto Tablets

Europe-Friendly Luggage

The type of luggage you choose will have a major impact on your travel style.

You essentially have two choices — a  wheeled suitcase  or a travel backpack . Either option is perfectly fine but both have their positives and negatives (which we’ll cover in this section).

Before I talk about luggage, I want to reiterate the idea of packing light because traveling light makes moving around easier and more enjoyable.

Rolling luggage is the most popular style of luggage for traveling in Europe. It offers a lot of benefits but it’s not always right for everyone.

Rolling Luggage Benefits

• Weight Isn’t a Huge Concern:  You don’t have to worry about weight as much since you’re pulling your bag. This can lead to overpacking — which will make carrying your bag up and down staircases and into luggage compartments more difficult.
• No Back Pain:  Not everyone can strap on a heavy backpack so rolling luggage is much more ideal in these cases.
• Rugged:  A quality suitcase can take a bit more punishment than a backpack because they’re designed to be thrown around a bit.
• Ideal For Door-to-Door Travel:  If you plan on taking taxis from your hotel to the airport/train station then traveling with a suitcase makes sense.

Disadvantages of Wheeled Luggage

• Cobblestones: Wheeled luggage is great on flat surfaces but becomes unwieldy on stairs and cobblestone streets.
• Stairs: While hotels might have elevators, most rental apartments and hostels might have quite a few stairs.
• Public Transportation:  Not all public transportation in Europe has escalators or elevators. A large suitcase will be unwieldy when you have to lug it up a bunch of stairs. Additionally, public transportation tends to be crowded, so pulling a big suitcase through a mob of people can be difficult.
• Not Hands-Free:  You’ll lose the ability to use both hands when you’re wheeling your suitcase around — which will impact the ease of travel.

Features of Quality Rolling Luggage

• Hard-Shell or Soft-Sided:   Soft-sided bags tend to hold up better than hard-shell bags and they also fit into overhead bins much easier because they’re more flexible. They can be thrown around without much chance of major damage. Hard-shell bags are normally much lighter than soft bags, but there is a larger chance the bag could crack. However, a hard-shell bag will keep the things inside your bag safer since it has more structure — so a hardshell might be best if you’re traveling with a lot of fragile things.
• Two Sturdy Wheels: Those four-wheeled rolling luggage are great on flat smooth surfaces but get eaten up by Europe’s streets. Look for bags with two sturdy wheels.
• Size: If you’re planning to carry on your luggage then you’ll want to ensure it fits those requirements — especially if you’re traveling on Europe’s size-stingy budget airlines. Not carrying-on? Try limiting yourself to a reasonably sized backpack that you can handle without assistance.
• Color:  A non-black bag will help you recognize your bag more quickly at the baggage claim. If you do have a black bag, we suggest using a distinctive luggage tag  or luggage strap  to help prevent other people from accidentally taking your bag (it happens more often than you think).

Travel Backpacks For Europe

I’m a big fan of travel backpacks and it’s my preferred luggage choice. However, they’re certainly not for everyone so I’ll cover what to consider before buying a travel backpack.

Check out my guide to the  Best Travel Backpacks and the Best Carry-On Backpacks . 

Benefits of Travel Backpacks

• Mobility:  Easily navigate crowded streets and public transportation since all your stuff is on your back.
• Hands-Free Travel:  Traveling with two free hands makes your life much easier and more enjoyable.
• Navigate Stairs & Streets:  You won’t have to worry about stairs or cobblestone streets with a backpack.
• Less Stress:  We find that our stress levels go down when we use a backpack since we don’t have to worry about knowing where our stuff is.

Disadvantages of Travel Backpacks

• Uncomfortable If Overloaded:  A travel backpack will be uncomfortable if you overpack.
• Checked Luggage:  If you have to check your backpack when flying, you must be cautious because the conveyor belts can sometimes rip off the straps of the backpack You’ll have to take extra precautions when checking your bag (or get a backpack that has stowable straps).
• Must Fit Well:  It is important to get a backpack that fits your body well. If not, it can quickly become uncomfortable.
• More Difficult to Pack:  Most modern travel backpacks open up like a standard suitcase so they’re easy to pack but some ‘hiking’ style bags only open from the top.
• Back Pain: Even a well-packed can start to cause back pain so it might not be great for people with mobility issues.

Features Of A Great Travel Backpack

I’ve written multiple guides about finding the perfect travel backpack. Here’s my  Guide To Choosing The Perfect Travel Backpack and a list of my favorite backpacks traveling Europe .

Recommended Travel Backpacks and Rolling Luggage

Travel Backpacks We Like:

• Osprey Farpoint  and the  Osprey Fairview
• Osprey Porter
• Tortuga Outbreaker ,  Setout , and  Setout Divide .

Rolling Luggage We Like:

• Osprey Transporter , Osprey Ozone , and Osprey Sojourn
• TLS Mother Lode Wheeled Duffle
• Eagle Creek Expanse Drop Bottom Wheeled Duffel 32

Where To Buy Travel Backpacks and Wheeled Luggage

There are a lot of places to purchase luggage and travel backpacks. Here are a few of our favorites:

• Amazon — Amazon has everything.
• Zappos — Zappos doesn’t always have every brand/model of luggage but they have free shipping and super easy free returns in case your bag doesn’t fit you correctly.
• REI — REI has a decent selection of luggage and their selection of travel backpacks is very solid.

Get Organized For Traveling Europe

Life gets a little more complicated when you’re living out of a bag but worry not… I’m here to help.

Behold the magical packing cubes.

They may not look like much but these simple travel accessories make packing so much easier.

The idea behind packing cubes is simple — you divide your clothing up between different cubes (socks in one cube, underwear in another cube, etc.). This keeps all your clothes compressed and organized.

This way you can quickly grab what you need. And these make repacking all your stuff easy as well since you know where everything goes.

As an added bonus, packing cubes can also help reduce wrinkles by preventing your clothing from shifting around in your bag. And the compression lets you fit more stuff into your luggage.

There are a ton of companies that make packing cubes but here are a few of our favorites:

• Eagle Creek Pack-It Cubes  (best overall)
• eBags Packing Cubes  (close second place)
• Eagle Creek Spectre Tech Packing Cubes  (ultra-lightweight favorite)
• AmazonBasics Packing Cubes  (best budget option)

Learn More: Read a more in-depth review of the best packing cubes . 

We don’t personally use packing folders but they’re a popular travel accessory. Basically, packing folders are designed for larger items like dresses, button-up shirts, and pants.

We recommend Eagle Creek Packing Folders — which cost anywhere from $16-$25 depending on size (via Amazon ).

Hanging Toiletry Bag

A toiletry bag is essential for keeping all your toiletries contained.

Do yourself a favor and buy a toiletry bag with a hook so it can be hung up since most European bathrooms have little/no counter space. There are a bunch of different bags available on Amazon but here are a few popular travel toiletry bags:

• The Ogio Doppler Kit (via Amazon ).
• The Lewis N Clark Hanging Toiletry Case (via Amazon ).
• Eagle Creek Toiletry Kits (via Amazon ).
• TANTO Toiletry Bag (via Amazon )

Other Helpful Organization Aides

• Humangear GoToob Travel Bottles are probably the best travel bottles for shampoo and other liquids/gels. They are a little expensive ($17-$25 for a set) but they don’t leak. There are multiple sizes so check Amazon to see what works best for your needs.
• The Grid-It Organizer is a handy way to keep all those electronics and wires in order. They cost about $15-$20 and come in different sizes (via Amazon ).
• A compression stuff sack is nice for keeping dirty clothes away from your clean clothes, and it serves as a good bag for doing laundry. Multiple companies make them and they run about $10-$40 depending on the size (via Amazon ).
• Ziploc bags come in handy for storing multiple things and keeping liquids from spilling over all your stuff (I like to keep my passport in a plastic bag for safekeeping). Ziploc makes multiple sizes of bags, so I like to pack multiple bags just in case I ever need one. There is even a three-gallon bag that works well for storing an extra pair of shoes so you don’t get your clothes dirty.

Travel Clothing Packing List

The majority of the weight in your luggage will come from clothing so it’s important to limit your clothes if you want to travel light. Of course, this is easier said than done.

In this section, we’ll help you choose which types of clothes to pack, some general tips for packing light, and packing tips for all seasons (summer, fall, winter, and spring).

Efficient Clothing Packing Tips

• While it might be a bit boring, it is usually easiest to pack mostly dark colors since they’re the easiest to coordinate. Additionally, dark colors do a better job of hiding stains than light colors.
• Avoid Single Wear Clothing:  Don’t bring anything that you’ll only wear once because it’s not worth lugging around for your entire trip. Choose pieces that can be worn for a variety of occasions.
• High Maintenance is No Good:  You’re going to be wearing your clothes a lot so you want things that can take a bit of punishment and is machine-washable
•   Accessorize:  You’ll probably get tired of wearing the same thing all the time so throwing in a few accessories (hats, scarves, sunglasses, etc.) is a good way to change up your outfit.
• Buy Clothes as You Travel:  We know a lot of travelers who only bring the bare minimum of clothing and then buy new stuff as needed.

I’m a big fan of travel underwear — mainly because you can easily wash them in the sink and they’ll dry in a few hours. They’re also designed to be more comfortable when you’re traveling all day. When you’re searching for travel underwear, look for the following things:

• Furthermore, cotton can take well over 24 hours to air dry — which makes it a pretty poor choice.
• Cotton does the exact opposite — it retains sweat and it leads to that “swampy” feeling we’ve all experienced.
• Odor Control:  The best travel underwear helps manage odors. Cheaper synthetic underwear will start to smell pretty quickly but the higher-quality synthetic fabrics will do a better job. We’ve found that fine Merino wool does the best job of stopping odors.

The number of pairs you bring is a personal preference. We don’t like washing underwear every night so we bring five or six pairs — but you could conceivably get away with two pairs (if you don’t mind washing often

Recommended Women’s Travel Underwear

The most popular travel underwear is made by ExOfficio — they get a ton of great reviews on Amazon . They are ideal for travel because they’re breathable, odor-repellant, and dry in just a few hours. They do tend to be more expensive than normal underwear but most experienced travelers swear by them.

ExOfficio has a fairly wide range of underwear styles available and they’re priced anywhere from $8-$20/pair (depending on style and color):

• ExOfficio Thong
• ExOfficio Lacy Low Rise Bikini

Patagonia also makes some really nice underwear that is great for travel. They get good reviews for being soft and comfortable. The Patagonia underwear won’t dry quite as quickly as ExOfficios but they still dry quickly. Patagonia stuff is always high quality but it also comes at a price — these normally cost about $20/pair.

• Active Hipster Briefs
• Barely Hipster Briefs
• Active Boy Shorts

Bring two or three comfortable bras . You may also want to bring a quality sports bra for those long travel days.

Recommended Men’s Travel Underwear

ExOfficio Give-N-Go underwear is the most popular underwear for travelers ( read our personal review here ) and their boxer briefs have over 5000 reviews on Amazon .

I wear mine even when I’m not traveling because they are pretty damn comfortable. ExOfficios breathe well, inhibit odor, and air dry super quickly. ExOfficio offers a few different styles and they cost between $15-$25/pair ( via Amazon ). They’ve also just released their new Give-N-Go Sport boxer briefs that look really nice. They cost $30 ( via Amazon ).

Under Armour also makes HeatGear underwear that performs similarly to the ExOfficios. They cost around $20/pair ( via Amazon ).

If you prefer wearing natural fibers, we suggest Merino wool. The  Smartwool underwear is nice and will keep you cool and dry. They usually run about $48 so they are on the expensive side. We also have a pair of boxer briefs from Wool & Prince that we really like.

Socks For Travel

It might not be exciting but a quality pair of socks will make a world of difference when you’re traveling. I’m a huge fan of socks made from fine Merino wool.

Lightweight merino wool socks are great in the summer because they’ll actually keep your feet cool and dry. Heavier-weight socks are good for traveling in the winter because they’ll keep your feet warm and dry.

Quality socks are expensive but they’ll last for a long time if you take care of them. Synthetic/wool blends also work well.

Ideal Travel Socks:

• Wick Moisture:  Your feet will sweat but a good pair of socks will draw moisture away from your feet. Keeping your feet dry will help eliminate odor and will also help stop blisters.
• Dry Fast: A lot of good wool and synthetic socks can be washed in the sink and will dry overnight (about 6-8 hours).
• Eliminate Odor:  High-quality wool is naturally odor-resistant. Some synthetic socks have special anti-bacterial features that help eliminate odor but they’re not quite as effective as wool. Synthetic-wool blends also work well.
• Aren’t Cotton:  Cotton is a terrible choice when it comes to socks. Cotton traps moisture and dries very slowly — this will lead to blisters and smelly feet. Additionally, cotton socks take a long time to air dry (24+ hours) so they’re difficult to wash in the sink.

A good pair of socks can be worn 2-3 times before they start to stink (although you’ll want to rotate the days you wear each pair so they can “air out”). For a more in-depth article about the wonderful world of socks, check out our article about the best travel socks . 

Recommended Travel Sock Brands

• Darn Tough Socks: Darn Tough Socks are known for being super durable — in fact, they’re guaranteed for life. Plus they’re made in Vermont.

Shoes For Traveling Europe

Wear. Comfortable. Shoes.

The most important packing tip is to wear sturdy, comfortable shoes when traveling Europe.

Trust me — you’re going to be on your feet way more than usual and your feet are going to take a beating. That’s why you should put comfort over fashion — luckily there are plenty of fashionable and comfortable shoes on the market.

So let’s look at a few tips for ensuring your feet stay happy:

• Here’s a list of what I think are the best travel shoes if you want my top picks.
• Have bad feet? Consider adding a pair of insoles to your shoes.  Superfeet insoles  get a lot of great reviews but there are a lot of other brands available.
• Consider Your Environment: Match your footwear to your environment. For example, you may want to consider a waterproof shoe if you’re traveling to rainy/snowy locations. Conversely, you probably don’t need heavy-duty mountain-hiking boots if you’re spending all your time in cities.
• Break In Your Shoes Early: Even comfortable shoes can take a little while to get broken in. That’s why I recommend wearing your shoes for a few weeks before your trip so you know they won’t give you blisters or foot pain.
• For Winter Travel : I recommend a lightweight pair of waterproof boots for poor weather (snow, rain, cold, etc.) and sneakers for the nicer days. Luckily, boots can often be dressed up a bit they still look nice enough at restaurants, etc. Check out our guides for the  Best Waterproof Boots for Men and Best Waterproof Boots for Women  for some fashionable and functional options.
• For Hostel Travelers:  Don’t forget a cheap pair of sandals for the showers…

Learn More: Take a look at our guides to the Best Travel Shoes For Women  and the Best Travel Shoes For Men —both articles go into much more detail about what you should look for in a pair of travel shoes as well as a selection of footwear perfect for travel.

Shirts and Tops For Travel

Now let’s dive into shirts and tops. To help keep things simple, I’ve split this section up into a women’s section and a men’s section.

Treat these sections as general guidelines on what kind of shirts/tops to pack — don’t forget the general rules of durable fabrics, dark colors to hide stains and wrinkles, and choosing items that can be easily paired with other items.

By the way, if you’re an ultralight traveler, you’ll probably want to pack less than what is listed below.

Tops For Women Packing List

• Shirts   (3 or 4):  A mixture of short and long sleeve tops is ideal. Remember to dress for the weather, but also realize that it can get cool at night during the summer. Bring a mixture of casual and dressy tops so you can mix and match.
• Light Sweater/Cardigan:  Even during the summer, temperatures don’t always get really hot (although they can). In Paris, the average high temperature in June is around 72 degrees and it can drop into the low 60s at night. That’s why it is a good idea to bring a light sweater or a cardigan.
• Dresses (1 or 2):  Look for a versatile lightweight dress that can be worn casually or dressed up.
• T-shirts and Tank Tops:  Sometimes you just want to wear a simple t-shirt so be sure to bring a few. Just pick whatever you’re comfortable wearing. The ExOfficio  Lacy Shelf Bra Cami  is a nice undershirt or sleep shirt — it is super lightweight, breathable, and air-dries overnight if you want to wash hand wash it.

Women’s Travel Clothing Brands

• Athleta : Athleta has really stepped up their travel clothing and they have a lot of solid options.
• Lululemon : Lululemon has a number of good travel clothing options.
• Anatomie : Anatomie has a bunch of higher-end clothing that looks really nice

Tops for Men Packing List

• Bluffworks  Meridian shirt  is a super-tough wrinkle-free travel shirt that can be worn casually or dressed up. It retails for $125.  Available via Bluffworks
• Wool & Prince sells a number of nice 100% merino wool shirts. Their long-sleeve button-ups retail for $128 and their short-sleeve sell for $98.
• Bluffworks recently released its performance t-shirt which sells for $45.
• Wool & Prince sells super nice 100% merino wool t-shirts ($68) and polos ($98).
• Uniqlo makes a number of budget t-shirt options that we always dig. Their inventory changes often but they always have something.
• Sweaters (1 or 2):  A lightweight sweater is nice if you want to dress up a little or if the temperature drops when the sun goes down. Layering a sweater over a button-up shirt looks nice (so make sure all your button-ups match your sweater). Of course, if you’re traveling in the summer, you probably don’t need to pack a sweater but having one or two in the winter is nice.

Jeans, Pants, and Bottoms Packing Guide

I usually only pack two pairs of pants — mainly because they take up a lot of space in your luggage. Also, pants are one of those things that you don’t really need to wash all that often so there’s no real need to pack multiple pairs.

Pants & Bottoms for Women

• For Cold Weather: Throw on a pair of lightweight micro-wool long underwear (i.e. a base layer) under your jeans — SmartWool  and  Icebreaker  are two great brands.
• Capri Pants:  Capri pants are a nice option in warm weather that still looks nice but are also functional.
• Skirts:  Skirts are dressier than shorts and they take up essentially no space in your luggage. Feel free to bring a mixture of shorter and longer skirts.
• Shorts:  Shorts are starting to become more popular in Europe so, contrary to popular belief, you won’t feel out of place wearing them — especially in the south of Europe. That said, we recommend bringing a fashionable and well-fitting pair as opposed to ‘athletic’ shorts.
• Athleta : Athleta has multiple options for pants that work well for travel.
• Lululemon : Lululemon has a few jogger pants and other options that would work well for travel.
• Anatomie : Anatomie has a bunch of higher-end travel items.
• Uniqlo : Uniqlo always has a few pairs of travel pants that are friendly on your bank account.

Pants & Bottoms for Men

• Jeans:  A pair of dark jeans are essential for traveling in Europe. They look great during the day and they can be dressed up for nighttime. Additionally, jeans can go weeks without needing to be washed.
• Bluffworks makes a series of lightweight, durable, and quick-drying travel pants that also look like regular pants. Pairs range from $98-$140. They also make some solid Travel Jeans for $125.
• AT Slim Rivet Pant from Western Rise  and stretchy, stain-proof, and incredibly durable. They retail for $129.
• The Brion Pant from Prana is one of the more fashionable “outdoor” pants and they sell for $79.
• Shorts:  In the past, you wouldn’t find many adult men wearing shorts in Europe but this is changing very quickly. Stick to well-fitting fashionable shorts but stay away from things like athletic shorts or the classic “touristy” khaki shorts.
• Cold Weather:  When the temperature drops, it can be nice to have a lightweight base layer to go under your pants. SmartWool  and  Icebreaker  make some of our favorite high-quality base layers.

Outerwear Guide

It’s a good idea to prepare for the elements so you’ll want to look into a few options — especially in the non-summer months.

• The Marmot Precip is a great lightweight rain jacket that is also pretty affordable.
• Check out REI.com  for a wide range of rain jackets.
• Our top choice is the Patagonia Better Sweater Fleece ( Men’s and Women’s ) but there are plenty of great options at  REI or Amazon .
• We use  Patagonia Nano Puff but for more budget-friendly options check out Uniqlo .

Clothing Accessories

Here are a few handy accessories to round out your outfit.

• Scarf:  Scarves are a handy item that adds style and comfort on cooler days. You can always buy a few as you travel because they make great souvenirs.
• Sunglasses:  Sunglasses are a must-have because they’re both practical and fashionable. After living in Europe, we noticed that Ray-Ban Wayfarer sunglasses were a top choice of the truly fashionable but you might want a cheap pair if you’re on the move all the time.

Europe Winter Weather Packing Guides

Winter travel in Europe poses a few extra packing challenges to consider so we’ve written a few handy guides to help guide you on your way.

• Europe Winter Travel Packing List
• How To Dress For Winter in Europe
• Best Waterproof Boots for Men
• Best Waterproof Boots for Women

Travel Accessories Packing List

We’ve put together a list of our favorite travel accessories to help make traveling in Europe easier and more enjoyable.

SIM CARD FOR CHEAP MOBILE DATA

The cheapest way to get mobile data for your phone is by using a European SIM card — this is much cheaper than using your home carrier’s International Mobile Data plan.

You can read about my  guide to using smartphones and data plans in Europe  but I recommend buying your SIM card from  SimOptions.com or Holafly .

Travel Daypack

A small backpack is essential for carrying around your day-to-day stuff (camera, souvenirs, rain jacket, guidebooks, etc.) as you’re sightseeing. We recommend a small daypack that can be easily packed away in your luggage and that won’t strain your back as you wear it all day. Here’s a list of the best daypacks . — we’ve also included a few anti-theft backpacks which are handy if you’re visiting areas known for pickpockets .

Packing a quick-drying travel towel will come in handy if you’re staying somewhere like a hostel that doesn’t provide towels. That’s because traditional cotton towels, in addition to being very bulky, take hours to dry — which will lead to a musty smell if you pack it before it is dry. Travel towels work well because they are compact but can still absorb plenty of liquid as they dry overnight.

Note: Travel towels are often much smaller than normal towels. We suggest buying the large or XL size—especially if you have long hair (or buy two).

There are a ton of travel towels on the market but these get great reviews:

• PackTowl Personal Microfiber Towel
• Biospired Footprint Lightweight Microsuede Towel

Keychain Flashlight

Most people use their phone as a flashlight light but a small keychain flashlight is still a nice accessory — especially in dark dorms and city streets.

We love the  Streamlight 73001 Nano Light Miniature Keychain LED Flashlight  because it’s super small (it fits on a keychain) but it provides a ton of light. Streamlight also has a ton of other great-quality pen lights if want other compact light options

Padlock &  Retractable Cable Lock

If you’re staying in a hostel, you’ll need a lock so you can secure your stuff in the lockers. We recommend the  Master Lock Set-Your-Own-Combination Padlock because it allows you to create your own combo so it’s easier to remember.

Retractable cable locks  are nice for securing your bag to your bunk or a luggage rack. They will deter a thief from running by and snatching your bag.

Earplugs & Eye Mask

An eye mask is nice for trains/planes/buses or if you stay in hostels (some jerk will turn the lights on at 3 am). Additionally, you’ll be glad you brought earplugs if you stay in hostels because you’ll eventually share a room with someone who snores. These Mack’s Pillow Soft Silicone Earplugs are really nice for sleeping.

Throw in a small notebook like the Moleskine Notebook ,  Field Notes , or  Rhodia notebooks to make notes of things as you travel. We write down directions, phone numbers, addresses, restaurants, spending, etc. At the end of your trip, your notebook will end up being a nice little souvenir.

Water Bottle or Flexible Water Bottle

Stay hydrated with a water bottle. A basic water bottle is perfectly fine but this flexible water bottle by Platypus Soft Bottle  is a great choice because it can be rolled up when empty.

Travel Sleep Sheet

Are your hostel sheets clean… who knows? If you don’t want to take the chance, think about packing a sleep sheet/sleep sack. A cotton Sleep Sheet is cheap but bulky. Silk Sleep Sacks cost but they’re a lot lighter, less bulky, and the silky feeling is nice.

• Sink Stopper: A cheap Travel Sink Stopper is necessary for sink laundry.
• Travel Laundry Soap: Woolite Travel Laundry Soap or Travelon Laundry Soap Sheets are perfect to travel laundry.
• Flexible Travel Clothesline: The best way to dry your clothes is with rubber braided clothesline . Plus, braided clotheslines don’t need clothespins.
• Stain Remover: Toss in a Tide To Go Stain Remover Pens or individually wrapped Shout Wipes for any stains.

Patch up stuff with duct tape. A whole roll because it is too bulky so just wrap some around a pencil. Or buy some travel duct tape .

Digital Luggage Scale

Make sure your bag isn’t too heavy with a digital luggage scale .

Photocopies Of Important Documents

Make copies (physical and electronic) of your passport and other important documents. We email them to ourselves or save them to Google Docs.

Ziploc Bags (Multiple Sizes)

Plastic bags are a great way to store your dirty or wet socks/underwear so they don’t get mixed with your clean clothes. We’ll also put our liquids in a sealable bag in case of a leak. The large 3 gallon bags  are nice for storing shoes so you don’t get your clothes dirty.

One of the best ways to avoid becoming a pickpocketing victim is to wear a money belt ( learn more about avoiding pickpockets here ). Personally, we don’t really like money belts because they’re kind of annoying to wear but a lot of people always wear one — it comes down to personal preference.

Collapsible Umbrella

A travel umbrella  is optional if you’re traveling in the summer. However, the fall, winter, and spring tend to be rainy, so you might want to bring one along.

We eat a lot of meals from the grocery store so we always bring a set of  Plastic Travel Utensils . If you really want to go all out, you should check out this sweet  titanium spork .

Toothbrush Cover

Keep your toothbrush germ-free with the  Steripod Clip-on Toothbrush Sanitizer  cover. It protects the brush and sanitizes it using voodoo science. Yeah, science! Or you can just get a normal  toothbrush cover  if that’s how you roll.

Lint Roller

A  lint roller  is an easy way to help keep your clothes looking presentable. 

Guide Books and Phrase Books

Despite loving internet resources, we are still huge fans of using printed guidebooks to research wherever visit. Learn more about our favorite travel guidebooks & websites .

A small  phrasebook can also come in handy if you’re not familiar with the local language (but most people in big cities will speak a little English).

Electronics Packing List

We travel with more electronics than ever so here’s a list of things you might want to bring along.

IMPORTANT: North America and Europe use different voltages (120v vs 220v) for their electronics. So what does that mean for you? For high-end electronics like phones, cameras, laptops, iPads, etc… it doesn’t matter. All you need is a plug adaptor because these electronics are all designed to work at multiple voltages. However, electronics with heating elements and motors like hairdryers, curlers, straightening irons, hair clippers, etc. aren’t designed for multiple voltages so they’ll fry if you use them in Europe. Read our guide to traveling with electronics  for more in-depth advice about using electronic devices while traveling.

Outlet Plug Adapters

You’ll need a couple of outlet plug adapters for all your electronics. Most of Europe uses the same plug but the UK uses a different configuration. There are dozens of adaptors out there but this affordable plug adaptor set from Ceptics will work fine. They also sell UK, Ireland, and Switzerland-specific versions if you’re traveling there.

Many hostels and hotels may only have one or two power outlets per room. That’s why we often pack a travel power strip to power our various gadgets. The Belkin Travel Power Strip with USB ports is a well-rated option but there are plenty of other travel power strips on Amaz on .

Portable Phone Charger

If you’re anything like us then you’re going to use your phone a ton when you’re traveling so you’re going to drain your battery before noon. That’s why a portable phone charger is a must-have travel item. We use the  Anker PowerCore 10000 because it’s the size of a deck of cards and is affordable.

Dual Voltage Travel Hairdryer

Standard North American hairdryers and straighteners won’t work in Europe — even if you use a voltage adapter. That’s because Europe uses a higher voltage than North America. That’s why you need a dual-voltage hair dryer. The Revlon 1875W Compact Travel Hair Dryer is a top choice for travelers because it is powerful, lightweight, and foldable.

Don’t forget about dual voltage straightening irons  and dual voltage curling irons .

We use our iPhones for a majority of our travel photography but you’ll want a quality digital camera if you want nicer photos. We’ve already written an in-depth article about choosing the best digital camera for trave l. Don’t forget the extras:

• Extra Memory Cards: Pack a few extra memory cards because you don’t want to run out of storage space — it’s better to have too much than not enough. And  memory cards are cheap .
• A portable external hard drive  is great for backing up all your photos. Another great option is to upload all your photos to cloud storage.
• Google Drive is free cloud storage and it gives you 15GB of space. We pay for their premium version to get even more space — especially since we have it synced with Google Photos. The main problem with cloud storage is not having reliable internet access when you travel.
• Extra Battery: I always carry an extra battery. Generic versions are cheap on Amazon (you’ll have to search for the specific battery that your camera uses).

Tablet or Laptop

We love traveling with our iPads — they’re the perfect travel computer. So, unless you really need the full functionality of a laptop, we suggest sticking with an iPad.

Smart Phone

Everyone has a smartphone these days. Here’s our guide to the best travel apps if you’re curious to know our favorite apps.

Be sure to read our guide to using Data Plans Abroad

It’s nice to listen to tunes as you travel. Additionally, there are a lot of downloadable audio guides for cities and museums — which are great ways to learn more about the places you’re visiting. We absolutely love our Apple Airpods (not having wires is so amazing). But we still throw in a cheap pair of headphones for flights. We’ve written more about our favorite travel headphones .

Travel Toiletries for Europe

We suggest minimizing your toiletries since liquids are heavy and you can purchase anything you need once in Europe. That said, here is a list of things you might want:

• Shampoo/Conditioner/Body Wash:  Pour liquids into these small GoToob travel-sized bottles because they won’t leak.
• Toothpaste & Toothbrush: We travel with a normal toothbrush but add a toothbrush cover . We did find that dental floss was much more expensive in Europe so bring some from home.
• Non-Aerosol Dry Shampoo:  Dry shampoo is amazing for getting your hair ready when you don’t have time to jump in the shower.
• Shaving Stuff (Razors & Cream): Razors are more expensive in Europe.
• Deodorant:  For whatever reason, we find that deodorant in Europe didn’t seem to work as well — maybe it was all in my head.
• Chapstick w/Sunscreen : Protect your lips.
• Contact Lenses/Solution/Glasses:  Contact solution can be a pain to purchase since it’s often only sold in pharmacies.
• Lipstick (or something similar): Parisian women seem to never leave the house without sexy lipstick. You can also use lipstick as blush.
• BB Cream:  BB Cream  is a great ‘all-in-one’ product. It’s a moisturizer that contains sunscreen and provides light coverage as a basic foundation — it also evens skin tone.
• Mascara: Mascara should be changed every three months, so this is a great excuse to buy a new bottle.
• Cream Blush: You really don’t want to have makeup brushes in your bag, so a cream blush is a great option.
• Condoms:  You don’t want some souvenirs so we suggest buying some now. Amazon seems to have the best price/selection of condoms .
• Travel Fabric Freshener:  Keep away the funk with travel-sized Febreze To Go.
• Travel Toilet Paper: Travel toilet paper is never a bad thing to have in an emergency.
• Wet Wipes/Baby Wipes:   Cottonelle Fresh Flushable Wipes can be a lifesaver and so they’re super easy to pack.
• Hand Sanitizer: Who knows what kind of things you’ll be touching.
• Body Powder: A lot of walking can equal chafing — especially in hot weather. Anti Monkey Butt is great for those hot days.
• Foot Cream:  Take care of your feet because you’ll be walking a lot.  O’Keeffe’s Healthy Feet Cream  will keep your feet from becoming rough and cracked.
• Pepto Tablets:  Traveling can take a toll on your stomach.  Pepto-Bismol tablets are super easy to throw in your bag.
• Band-Aids:  They’re nice to have on hand. A lot of people will develop blisters on their feet so we recommend Band-Aids for feet .
• Pain Medicine: Over-the-counter pain medicine is normally only sold in pharmacies so it can somethings be hard to find after-hours.
• Prescription Drugs: Ensure you have enough medicine to cover your trip since getting refills can be difficult.

Travel Insurance

We recommend picking up some travel insurance — which will help cover your stuff, flights, hotel, train tickets, rail passes, medical emergencies, and more. World Nomads is our top choice but you can check out our guide to buying travel insurance .

Where to Buy Travel Gear

• Amazon : Our top choice for buying gear is Amazon because they seem to have the best selection and prices.
• Zappos : Zappos has a solid selection of travel gear. Their prices are sometimes a bit higher than other stores, but their free super-fast shipping and dead-simple returns are often worth the extra cost.
• REI : One is the largest outdoor retailer so they have a nice selection of backpacks and clothing.
• Recent Posts

• Backpacking Europe Packing List — My Europe Travel Packing Guide - April 6, 2024
• Best eSIM For Europe Travel | Everything You Need To Know About European Prepaid eSIM Data Plans - March 24, 2024
• Holafly eSIM Review | Testing The New eSIM Data Plan from Holafly - March 3, 2024

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The ULTIMATE Packing List for Europe – Essentials for 2024

Planning a trip to Europe? Our guide covers the essentials you will need in your packing list for Europe.

This continent is one of our favourites regions of the world to explore.

Hi, we’re Rach & Marty!

We’ve visited every country in the world and want to help you get the most out of your travels!

Whether you need an expertly planned itinerary , some experienced hints and tips , or just craving a delicious food adventure , we’ve got you covered!

We may earn affiliate commissions from websites we link to, at no cost to you. Click here for details.

Post updated Jan, 2024

Furthermore, if you’re searching for a Europe packing list that will be light enough to carry so you can easily move around from country to country, then you’re in luck. 

Items on the list below are more focused on a packing list for Europe summer. It’s the ideal Europe backpacking packing list too, as it’s light to carry, yet comprehensive.

However, you may need a few extra layers if you’re travelling during winter. We’ve got a few suggestions to complete the ULTIMATE packing list for Europe for any season.

Travelling around Europe is thrilling! Expect your trip to be full of diversity, adventure, warm hospitality, many beaches, world-class cities, and amazing food! You need to read our food map of Europe before you get there.

With so many countries packed into one amazing continent, do you know how many countries are there in Europe? 44, 45 or 49?

The best part about travelling here is if you forget something on your packing list for Europe, you can easily pick it up on the way. 

Our best tip for your packing list in Europe is – Keep it Light!

Our best tip for preparing your packing list for Europe is that less is more! Trust us, a packing list for backpacking Europe or travelling with a suitcase is much easier when your  backpack or luggage  is light. 

When travelling around Europe, believe us, you will use many forms of public transport. We firmly believe that travelling in Europe by train is the best, yet the bus network is fantastic to travel between countries too.

We know that each and every traveller is different. If you’re planning to fit as much in as possible and breeze through many countries, it’s critical that your packing list for Europe is similar to this one.

We’ve prepared our packing list for Europe summer so many times as we used to work as tour guides here for many years. Trust us, everything included in our packing list for Europe below gets used frequently. 

At the same time, if you’re planning to go a little slower and stay a little longer in each country, our packing list for Europe has you covered. 

Table of Contents

Ok, let’s get to it! Your Packing List for Europe for 202 4

Choosing the right travel bag.

Ok, some people are backpack travellers and others are suitcase travellers. The type of luggage to carry items on your packing list for Europe is up to you. To help you out though, we cover the pros and cons of each travel bag in our post  Suitcase Vs Backpack – Which one should you choose?

In saying that, choosing a backpack over a suitcase for your packing list for Europe will give you more flexibility. The reason for this is that you will encounter many cobblestoned streets, countless stairs, super small elevators at hotels, or none at all (so heads up for carrying your own suitcase up four flights of stairs).

It is a little easier to navigate all of this if you have a backpack rather than wheeled luggage. Nowadays, you can buy some awesome travel bags that offer both options, like the Osprey Wheels 36 Bag . You can wear this bag as a backpack and then convert it to a rolling bag too. 

We’ve used many travel bags over the past twenty years. The one we use now is the Osprey Farpoint 40L Backpack and we love it! This is the ideal backpack for your packing list for Europe. 

Do you need a small day pack?

Travelling with a small day pack is a personal choice. We travel with one as we prefer to keep our valuables with us at all times. This is especially important when taking overnight train/bus rides.

We carry this small Osprey day pack

We often lock our large 40L backpack to something stationary when we sleep on overnight trains and our small daypack containing our valuables will remain on our person, inside our silk sleeping sheet while we sleep – it feels much more secure to do this to deter any opportunistic thieves.

When we’re on the move, our small Osprey day pack sits on the front of our body with our Osprey 40L backpack on our backs, this makes it easy to quickly access passports or money.

Make sure you get Travel Insurance before hitting the road. We recommend Heymondo & SafetyWing Travel Insurance.

Click here and get 5% off Heymondo from us!

Choosing your Travel Clothes

As I mentioned at the beginning, this packing list for Europe is focused on being a packing list for Europe summer. The European summer runs from late June to late September and the majority of European countries receive high temperatures during this time. Temperatures range between 25 and 35 degrees Celsius.

The best clothing to choose for your packing list in Europe is light, breathable cotton, clothing you can mix and match, and items that dry quickly.

And, we must admit that our compression packing cubes have been a lifesaver in keeping things organised.

Packing List for Europe: Clothing for WOMEN

• 1 pair of  black skinny jeans
• 1 pair  Columbia zip-off long trekking pants  OR  Lululemon travel pants
• 1 North Face  lightweight jacket/fleece
• 1 Light Rain jacket
• 1 pair of black  loose cotton pants
• 1 light  long-sleeved cotton shirt
• 4  basic t-shirts
• 3 loose  singlets/tanks
• 1  denim shorts  
• 1  cotton shorts  (H&M brand or similar)
• 1  light short  (wear as pyjamas or to the beach)
• 2  nice tops  to wear out
• 1 little  black dress
• 2 pairs of  ankle socks
• 7 pieces  underwear
• 1  bikini   (we love Roxy brand swimsuits)
• 1  Ripcurl cap
• 2 bras  and  1 sports bra
• 1  headscarf   (to visit places of worship)
• Birkenstock Sandals
• Havaianas – Slim Black flip flops
• Merrell Women’s Black Hiking Shoes  or Nike Women’s Black Running Shoes

Packing List for Europe: Clothing for MEN

• 2 pairs of Quiksilver Boardshorts
• 1 pair of Travel/Hiking Shorts
• 1 pair of Long Trousers
• 2 pairs Smart Chino Shorts
• 3 Tank Tops
• 1 Long Sleeve Cotton Shirt
• 1 Smart Shirt
• 1 Casual short-sleeved shirt
• 1 Warm Fleece
• 1 Light NorthFace Waterproof jacket
• Salomon Hiking Shoes  or Mens Nike Black Running Shoes
• Underwear & socks

Toiletries for Women

We’re lucky to be able to share some toiletries on the road – so it gives one of us a little more room in our backpack. If Marty carries the toiletries, I’ll carry our  espresso machine  and fresh coffee to share the load.

We try to keep toiletries to a minimum as they can be heavy. We also travel with carry-on baggage, therefore, all of our toiletries must be 100ml or less. If you plan on staying in hotels (and even some cool hostels) around Europe, small toiletries will usually be provided.

• Hanging Toiletry Bag
• Compression Packing Cubes
• Small containers  (100ml) for refills
• Shampoo/Conditioner  100ml each
• Bar of  soap
• 1  shaver/razor  (we never have a problem at airports with this in our carry-on)
• 1  hairbrush
• Roll-on deodorant
• Toothpaste & toothbrush
• exfoliating shower glove  (we found these in Morocco..love them)
• 100ml sized  sunscreen  – We like Nivea or Neutrogena brands
• Nivea face moisturiser SPF30
• Blistex  and lip balm
• A few pieces of makeup (which we rarely use, but sometimes it feels nice to dress up) 1 tube of  foundation , bronzing powder, and brush,  1 mascara

Toiletries for Men  (as suggested by our male travel buddy)

• Toothpaste and toothbrush
• Moisturiser
• Shaver/small shaving cream
• Mosquito repellent (with DEET!)

 Accessories/Extras for our packing list for Europe

• A  pouch that holds my passport, different currency, bank cards, passport photos, copy of my passport, driver’s license, and a copy of our Heymondo travel insurance  policy
• Nanopresso Portable Espresso Maker
• Silk sleeping sheet  – For those overnight trains or airport naps.
• Sarong  (our shower towel, beach towel)
• Frank Green Portable Coffee/Tea Cup
• LifeStraw  filter water bottle (this lives in our small day pack)
• Oakley Sunglasses  & Protective Case
• Travel clothesline
• Travel Sling Bag

Technology/Electronics

If you’re a photographer, digital nomad, or simply can’t live without your MacBook and other electronics, we understand.

We need these things as we work online as we travel the world. Here’s what we take as part of our Europe Packing list, in terms of electronics.

• 13″ Macbook Pro   with charger
• iPhone 13 Smartphone with a USB charger.
• Apple  AirPods  for iPhone
• Old-school  iPhone headphones 
• Sony RX100 Mark III Camera   with leather case
• Sandisk  2TB external hard drive
• Worldwide adapter plug.
• GoPro Camera  – a waterproof stick/few extra clips for it
• Belkin  Powerbank 
• Small portable  USB drive
• Small pouch  that holds all cords for cameras etc
• Gorilla tripod  for our Sony camera

Safety in Europe

Travelling around Europe is regarded to be relatively safe, but it’s best to read our  12 Tips for Safe Travel. The same goes for  travelling anywhere in the world, accidents do happen.

Some cities in Europe (Rome and Barcelona in particular) have a higher rate of pick-pockets and petty thieves, so you need to be a little more cautious of your belongings.

And it goes without saying that common sense is essential to take in your Europe packing list and beyond.

We 100% recommend Travel Insurance 

We highly recommend you sort out some good travel insurance to cover you when things go wrong.

It will be one of the most essential things on your packing list for Europe. We use Heymondo to cover us on our world travels. We recommend adding one of their comprehensive travel insurance policies to your packing list for Europe. Get 5% discount on your travel insurance policy from us!  

Transport and Getting Around Europe

Getting from A to B in Europe is easy. Read our best tips about travelling around Europe by Train , it’s a great way to travel this continent.

The ONLY website we use to make reservations for train tickets is Trainline . They offer the cheapest fares, you get instant confirmation and their booking platform is so easy to use.

The best part about travelling Europe is that you can also find some incredibly cheap flights with low-cost carriers.

We book all our flights around Europe on CheapOair . The prices are unbeatable and you can choose to pay in the currency of your choice. 

The bus network in Europe is wonderful too! The best website for checking buses, and other forms of transport is Omio.  

How to Book Accommodation in Europe

We always use the same websites to book accommodation in Europe.  Booking.com  is our number one choice for booking accommodation in every European country.

Apps to download for Europe

Download these apps on your phone to make your travels in Europe much easier.

• CheapOair (to search flights)
• Booking.com  (to book accommodation on the go)
• XE.com (to check the latest exchange rates)
• Maps. me (the best offline maps to help you navigate around)
• Google Translate (while English is widely spoken in Europe, this app is so useful when you get lost in translation)
• Omio (book buses, ferries and trains on the road)
• Trainline (book train and coach tickets all around the world and save up to 60% discount on average per ticket).

RELATED POST – 20 Best Travel Apps in 2023 (Plus They’re Free)

Staying in Europe long-term?

If you’re considering staying longer in Europe (and you’ve got the right visas to do so), check out the Trusted Housesitters  website for saving loads of money on accommodation. Become a house-sitter in Europe, (and all over the world) if you’re considering staying in one place for a little longer.

Being a house-sitter means free accommodation for you in return for looking after different homes around the globe. This was one of the best things we ever did! Join now with our personal invitation and receive a massive 25% off your membership!

Travelling Beyond Europe?

Travelling beyond Europe or need some suggestions for warmer items to add to your packing list in Europe? Our  Ultimate Packing List for every traveller includes the items we carried as we travelled to every country in the world.

We moved between all types of weather, from very cool temperatures to sweltering hot ones. And, we still manage to travel with carry-on baggage only, often less than 10kg.

We’ve also put together our Complete Packing List for Africa and the Essential Packing List for Travelling in Southeast Asia .

Group Tours in Europe

And, if you don’t have the time to travel slowly in Europe but really want to discover more, then a group tour could be the answer.

We recommend Expat Explore. They offer a variety of coach and rail group tours around Europe to suit everyone, and you’ll have a fantastic crew to take care of all the details. Your only task is to turn up and have an amazing time.

Check out  Expat Explore , and if you see a tour that you want to book, use our promo code  VERYHUNGRYNOMADS  at checkout for an additional  5% discount off your trip !

My other suggestion is GAdventures for awesome small-group adventures in Europe.

Don’t miss our EUROPE CITY GUIDES

• ROME 3 Days Itinerary
• VENICE 1-Day Itinerary
• FLORENCE 2 Days Itinerary
• AMSTERDAM 3 Day Itinerary
• PARIS 4 Days Itinerary
• BUDAPEST 2 Days Itinerary
• PRAGUE 2 Days Itinerary
• LONDON 1 Day Itinerary
• ATHENS 1 Day Itinerary
• BERLIN 2 Days Itinerary
• VIENNA 2 Days Itinerary
• LISBON 2 Days Itinerary

Travel Tips & Inspiration

We love to share our knowledge and advice about travelling the world. You may enjoy reading our best-ever travel tips to help your budget to stretch further on the road.

Perhaps you’re travelling on a budget? These  10 cheapest countries in Europe to visit may be just the tool you need to start planning an epic trip. Don’t forget to check out our  Ultimate Food Map of Europe .

And, for all of the food lovers out there, don’t miss our top 10 best countries for foodies! And, if you’re more interested in history, these 30 amazing historical places in the world  will fascinate you!

But, here are  8 things to know about traveling to Eastern Europe  and it’s good to know these  7 misconceptions about Eastern Europe  too.

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Expert travel tips, resources and exclusive discounts worldwide

Or, perhaps these  21 Cheapest Countries to Visit Right Now  is just the thing you’ve been searching for.

We’ve got a bunch of  tips for how you can save money to travel the world , and even when you’re out there travelling, maybe these  20 jobs that PAY YOU to travel the world  will help you travel longer. It worked for us, and we bet it can work for you too.

Finally, these  top 6 travel hacks to save you money  are great to read when planning your travels.

And, if you’re planning a new trip, whether it’s for a week, a month, or even a few years, consider  buying an eSIM to stay connected . This is our favourite travel product, and you can read more about what is in eSIM and  why eSIM is so convenient for International Travel .

Check out the  travel gear we use on the road, and for the products and websites we recommend to plan new trips, head to our  Travel Resources Page .

Travel Planning Resources

✈️ Flights : We use Skyscanner to book cheap flights worldwide.

🏨 Accommodation :  Booking.com is our preferred platform for booking hotels and accommodation.

🏥 Travel Insurance : We recommend Heymondo ( Get 5% off Heymondo)  & SafetyWing

🚌 Transportation : Trainline is the best website to reserve trains. We use Omio to book transport worldwide. For travel in Asia, we use 12Go.  

🚘 Car Rental : We use DiscoverCars to book rental cars worldwide.

👫 Group Tours :  G Adventures OR compare multi-day tours worldwide with Tourradar .

📸 Day Tours & Trips :  GetYourGuide  & Viator are the only two platforms you need.

📚 Lonely Planet: The Best Range of Travel Guides & Ebooks , and FREE Shipping! (use code RACHELDAVEY10 for a 10% discount)

🎒 Luggage :  Osprey Farpoint 40L Backpack  or  Samsonite Luggage Range.

🛄 What to Pack:  Don’t forget your Universal charger and a good  power bank .  To help you pack the essentials, here is our ULTIMATE Packing List for all Travellers .

🐶 Become a House Sitter:  Join Trusted Housesitters and enjoy FREE accommodation worldwide. Use our invite to receive 25% off your new membership.

💰 Send Money Anywhere: WISE  &  Revolut  are the best online accounts that let you send money, get paid, and spend money internationally. Both are so easy to use and way cheaper than any bank transfer.

📶  Stay Connected: Airalo eSIM allows you to get connected the moment you land at your destination, and you can avoid those expensive data roaming charges. We LOVE this product! Use promo code NOMAD15 for 15% off ALL eSIMs (new Airalo users only) OR use NOMAD10 for 10% off ALL eSIMs (for existing Airalo users)

✅ Check out our Travel Gear  and  Travel Resources for more valuable tips to save you money!

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Ultimate europe packing list: what to pack in 2024.

Europe is a MASSIVE continent and there are endless great countries for you to visit .

Having visited all but 4 countries ourselves ( and at ALL times of the year ) we know how to pack for a trip to Europe.

Whether it's a snowy, sub-freezing Norwegian road trip , or a warm island hopping adventure in Greece .

We have been there ...

Done that ...

And packed the t-shirts!

So below I want to share with you all the tips, tricks & experience we have picked up on over the years.

Helping you to plan and pack for the ideal visit to our home continent.

Okay, that's enough pre-amble ... let's get started!

Before traveling anywhere, make sure you have your travel insurance in place. We recommend SafetyWing. ‍

Here's a few reasons ...

• They Cover for Covid-19
• You can pause and restart policies each month
• They are more affordable than many providers

For more info, check out my in-depth SafetyWing review .

Ultimate Europe Travel Packing Checklist

Men's packing list, women's packing list, travel essentials, tech/gadgets, health & safety, miscellaneous, other items to consider, a few things you need to know about europe.

When it comes to organising a packing list for Europe, there are a couple of things that you need to know first. 

There are plenty of fantastic places to visit in Europe but each one offers its own climate, seasons, and variety of activities! 

The key things to understand are: 

1. Geography of Europe

Right, where to start? Europe is HUGE there’s no denying it.

The continent is home to 44 countries in total and each one will require a very different type of packing list. 

Europe has four main regions; Eastern Europe, Northern Europe, Southern Europe, and Western Europe. 

Northern Europe

Typically speaking, the Northern countries in Europe such as Finland , Norway , and Sweden have cooler temperatures for most of the year.

They are also much colder in winter, and you’re likely to encounter high snowfall levels. 

Southern Europe

Southern Europe offers a primarily Mediterranean climate and countries in this region include Greece , Italy , and Spain .

Temperatures here remain much warmer throughout the year and the summers are particularly hot! 

Eastern Europe

Then you have Eastern Europe where you’ll find places like Poland, Romania, and Ukraine.

The climate in this part of Europe can be very unpredictable, but generally, you’ll encounter warm but wet summers and harsh winters.

Western Europe

Finally, there’s Western Europe which includes countries such as Belgium, France , and the United Kingdom!

The climate in these regions typically consists of warm summers with plenty of rain, and mild winters.

So what does this all mean?

Well, I can't spend forever digging into the temperatures and climates of every country, but you definitely should do this yourself if you know exactly what countries you will be in, and what time of year.

And also bear in mind some of the key areas that will affect the climate. 

One of these is the Alps, which is a mountain range that crosses through eight countries in total. Temperatures here are much cooler and you’re likely to encounter higher precipitation levels.

Here’s some more information on the geography of Europe ! 

2. Seasons in Europe

The seasons in Europe are difficult to talk about, as the climate differs specifically for each country in the continent. 

However, generally like elsewhere in the world there are four main seasons; spring, summer, autumn, and winter. 

• Spring in Europe lasts from March-May and is one of the best times to visit. You often won’t encounter the crowds as you would in the summer, and temperatures start to warm up (depending on which country you visit). 
• Summer in Europe is the ‘peak’ season for visiting and lasts from June to August. During this time of year, the temperatures are at their warmest and precipitation levels are relatively low, especially on the South coast. 
• Autumn (or fall) in Europe runs between September-November and the weather can be very unpredictable during this time of year. 
• Winter in Europe lasts from December-February and many countries encounter mild to harsh winters, plenty of snow, and high precipitation levels.

Here are a couple of more in-depth guides that may help you decide on the best season for you! 

• The climate in Europe - this website gives you detailed information on each country
• Seasons in Europe - detailing the ‘best time to visit’ each region

Packing for summer in Europe

Your packing list for Europe in summer will differ depending on which country you visit, but either way, it will look very different from the rest of the year. 

As I mentioned previously, the majority of countries in Europe experience mild to hot summers so you’ll want to pack items like swimsuits, shorts, t-shirts, and hats.

The good thing about visiting Europe in the summer is that you’ll be packing relatively small and lightweight items rather than thick jumpers and scarves etc...

This will give you more flexibility in what you can bring, but always make sure to pack for all weather conditions.

Packing for winter in Europe

Your packing list for Europe in winter is heavily dependent on where you decide to visit!

If you’re visiting some of the Nordic countries then you’ll need to pack for extremely cold temperatures, whereas some of the Southern countries have milder winters.

Either way, your essentials for travelling in Europe at this time of year will consist of thick jumpers, a raincoat, and underlayers.

Unfortunately, this often means you’ll be able to fit less in your backpack due to the size of the items. So, just keep that in mind when putting together your Europe packing list for winter!

Packing for autumn and spring in Europe

Creating a Europe travel checklist for your bag can be hard during this time of year, as you’ll need to consider the unpredictable weather conditions and climate. 

Like with other seasons, the temperature and precipitation levels will differ depending on which country you visit, but no matter where you go, be prepared for cool to mild temperatures.

Generally, your packing list for Europe in autumn/spring will have to include clothing for warm and cool temperatures, as the forecast can often change very quickly.

To cover all bases, you’ll want to pack some lightweight items such as t-shirts and shorts, but I’d also recommend packing trousers, and jumpers.

Choosing a larger backpack

If you are backpacking Europe, then the first thing you will want is a backpack!

When choosing a larger backpack it’s important to consider how long you’re travelling for. 

If you’re packing for 2 weeks in Europe then you’ll naturally have fewer items than if you were planning a 3-month trip for example!

However, that being said - no matter where we’re travelling, how long we’re going for, or what we plan to do; Osprey is always the first choice for us! 

This fantastic company is known for its durability, quality, and for offering great value for money!

I actually received my first Osprey bag as a backpacking gift in 2015 and I’ve been in love with what they offer ever since. It’s still going strong too! 

Many people opt for a 70-litre backpack but this can often be too much, especially if you’ll be walking and carrying it a lot. 

If you go for this size, you’ve also got an increased chance of being over the luggage limit if you’re just trying to cram as much in there as you can! 

That’s valuable travel money gone on excess airline fees…

Everyone’s preference differs but in my opinion, a backpack of 50-65 litres is plenty for one person. It offers enough space for all your clothes, essentials, and any other preferable items.

Here are our 2 recommendations:

Bradley's choice

OSPREY PACKS FARPOINT 70 (FOR MEN)

Cazzy's choice.

OSPREY PACKS RENN 65 (FOR WOMEN)

Choosing the perfect day bag.

When we travel, we prefer to either carry one 70-litre backpack between us or two smaller backpacks (50-65 litres). 

However, no matter where we go we ALWAYS take a day bag as well! 

Whether you’re looking for a sustainable backpack or a laptop-friendly backpack , there are endless options out there.

You’ve also got plenty of camera backpacks to choose from which is a great choice for keen photographers or bloggers! 

With so many options, finding the perfect day bag can often feel like an overwhelming experience but I’m here to help. 

My recommendation for the perfect day bag is again an Osprey one, as it’s lasted me for years and is perfect for carrying all our gear including our travel laptops !

However, Cazzy also has a fantastic day pack that you can read about in our Tropicfeel Shell Backpack review .

It can expand and contract to your needs, and you can fit so much in.

If you’d prefer a more compact day bag then there are some fantastic anti-theft bags out there and many of them are much smaller in size. 

Here are a couple of things to consider before choosing your perfect day pack…

• What kind of items are you planning to carry in your day pack & are they valuable?
• How long will you be carrying your day pack for at a time?
• What kind of size day pack do you think you’ll require?

Our recommendations for Europe:

OSPREY PACKS STRATOS 24

Tropicfeel Shell Backpack

What about roll-on luggage for europe.

Many people aren’t a fan of backpacks and that’s fine, so decide to opt for roll-on luggage instead! 

If we’re only heading out on a short trip then I definitely prefer going with roll-on luggage myself, as they are so much easier to get through the airport. 

There are plenty of fantastic carry-on luggage options , but one of the BEST companies for me has to be Horizn Studios! 

They are more of a luxury brand, and although their products are more expensive than others on the market, they do offer plenty of nifty features including in-built portable chargers. 

I’ve even got an in-depth review of Horizn Studios which outlines their roll-on luggage options if you want to take a closer look!

Final thoughts on picking bags for travel to Europe

As we’ve become more seasoned travellers, we now understand that less is definitely more!

Aside from our road trip around the world , many of our trips last between 2-3 months so we tend to just take one 70-litre backpack between the two of us. 

This still offers plenty of space for both of us and has several benefits including…

• Having fewer bags to worry about or carry around
• It costs us less in luggage fees as we only need to pay for one checked bag
• We only take what we definitely NEED 

Now, for us, the last point is by far the most important!

As you’ve probably figured out by now, putting together a list of backpacking essentials for Europe isn’t easy. That’s why you’ve searched Google for help as we’ve done many times before! 

However, taking a small backpack means you don’t have room for unnecessary items so you won’t just be packing things for the sake of it.

What to pack for Europe: Travel Essentials

Now that you’ve got your perfect bag sorted it’s time to start thinking about the things to pack for your Europe trip! 

First of all, I’m going to detail the essentials for travelling to Europe.

Then, I’ll go through some of the other cool items that you can take including photography gear and miscellaneous items.

To make this Europe travel packing list easier to digest, I’ve split it up into six sections:

• Men’s Clothing
• Women’s Clothing
• Travel banking
• Important documents

What to wear in Europe for men

How much you should take will differ depending on how long your trip is, but this is what I’d pack for a typical 2-week holiday in Europe…

• 4 or 5 T-Shirts - Depending on what time of year you’re visiting, you can split this between long-sleeved and short-sleeved
• 2 Tank Tops
• 1 or 2 Evening Shirt - Europe has some lovely restaurants, perfect for a romantic evening so you’ll want at least one or two dressy shirt options
• 1 Short-Sleeve Shirt - For those warmer evenings, where you’re going out but it’s too warm to wear a long-sleeved shirt 
• 1 Pair Of Nice Shorts
• 2 Pairs Of Jeans - Even the summers in Europe can be mild depending on where you’re travelling too so it’s a good idea to pack two pairs of jeans, or even cargo pants if you wish  
• 2 Pairs Of Long Socks
• 5 Pairs Of Trainer Socks
• 1-2 Pairs Of Hiking Socks
• 1 Hoody - You may not need to wear this very often during the summer, but it’s always handy to have, especially if you’re up for sunrise or staying out late
• 1 Lightweight Rain Jacket - It’s always likely that you’ll encounter some rain in Europe no matter what time of year you visit, so always carry a rain jacket
• 1 Pair Of Sunglasses
• 1 Pair Of Trainers -  Perhaps, the most important thing is to bring one pair of comfortable walking shoes or trainers. Tropicfeel has some fantastic all-in-one travel shoes that are perfect for hiking, canoeing, and anything else you throw their way!
• 1 Pair of ‘dressy’ trainers - these don’t necessarily have to be posh or look nice, but just simply pack an extra pair that you’d prefer not to get too grubby. 

What to pack for Europe in Summer

During the summer, you’ll want to add these necessities…

• 2 Pairs Of Swim trunks
• 1 Pair Of Flip Flops - You can swap out the second pair of trainers for flip-flops instead! 

What to pack for Europe in Winter

Your men's Europe packing list will look very different in the winter, and you’ll have to substitute some of the more lightweight items. Here’s what I’d pack instead…

• 1 Thick jacket - You can swap out a hoody for a thick jacket if you’d prefer as that will keep you much warmer!
• 1 Wooly hat
• 2 Pairs Of Gloves - Europe’s weather can be unpredictable so I’d recommend packing two pairs of gloves, just in case one pair gets caught on a rainy day! 
• 1 Pair of Boots - As a substitute for the flip flops, you can take a pair of lightweight boots with you and then pack your travel trainers in your bag. This will save you more space and more weight on your luggage allowance. 
• 1 Thick Coat - You can either substitute the rain jacket for this, or you can get one of the nifty rain jackets that fold up into a pouch as that will take up hardly any room.

What to wear in Europe for women (from Cazzy)

This Europe packing list for females includes many of the same things, although understandably some of the options will be very different. 

I’ve included everything that Cazzy would typically pack for a short trip to Europe here! 

• 4 T-shirts - They’re light and you can easily put them over your swimsuit/bikini
• 3 Sun Dresses - Whether you’re heading out for a nice meal or you’re exploring all day, sun dresses are very multi-purpose!
• 2 Long Skirt - Great for those warm days and of course, photographs.
• 2-3 Pairs Of Shorts
• 1 Pair Of Light Trousers - Harem pants , wide-leg trousers , and linen pants are all great options for lightweight trousers
• 1 Pair Of Jeans
• 2 Playsuits or Jumpsuits - Perfect for if you’re looking to dress up a bit or go out in the evenings 
• 1 Pair of leggings - Very handy and comfortable if you’re travelling by air, bus, train etc…
• 1 Pair Of Hiking Socks
• 5 Pairs of Trainer socks
• 1 Light Jacket - You can always pack a hoody instead if you wish, but either way just pack something a bit warmer for your trip too! 
• 1 Light Rain Jacket - It’s unlikely that you’ll avoid the rain for your whole trip in Europe, so always pack a rain jacket
• 1 Hat - You can either go for something stylish or a baseball cap, but just have something to keep the sun off your face
• 1 Pair Of Trainers - As I mentioned before, Tropicfeel has some awesome options. There are a variety of colours and styles to choose from, so you can just pick a pair that will go with most of your outfits. There are also plenty of other lightweight travel shoes out there
• 1 Pair of ‘dressy’ trainers - Again it’s great to have a backup pair if you’re not planning to take flip-flops/water shoes which you probably would be during the summer months!

Europe Summer packing list

Same as the men's packing list, you’ll want to add in a couple of extra items…

• 2 Vest Tops - These are a great option if you’re looking to cool down in the heat 
• 2 Swimming costumes/bikinis - A mix of swimming costumes and bikinis are always good to have as some places require something a bit more substantial (e.g water parks, where many unfortunate incidents can happen with flimsy bikinis).
• 1 Pair Of Sandals/flip-flops - When it comes to flats, you can either choose to take flip-flops or sandals. If you’ve got the room you can take both, but just be mindful not to overpack!
• 2 Headbands - Perfect for keeping your hair from your face, especially if you’re hiking or sweating a lot, which unfortunately we all do in the summer…
• 1 Pair of Water Shoes - These are great if you’re planning to spend time snorkelling in the sea or you’ll be kayaking 
• 1 Shirt - Can even be a men’s shirt, but just something light that you can wear over your swimsuit by the pool

Europe winter packing list

Your Europe travel essentials will definitely change if you’re exploring the continent during the winter. Some of the countries are very chilly, so you’ll want to swap out the shorts and swimsuits for something a bit woollier…

• 1 Thick coat - You’ll need a thick coat in the winter rather than a light jacket or raincoat, however, you can always wear this on the plane to save space in your bag
• 2 Pairs Of Gloves
• 1 Wooly hat 
• 1 Pair Of Boots - Everyone’s preference is different, but you can always swap out a pair of trainers for boots in the winter

Washing clothes in Europe

One of the main reasons that you don’t have to overpack in Europe is that there will always be places to wash your clothes, especially in the cities.

Although it depends on where you stay, many hostels and campsites will have washing machines or offer this service. 

You can wash your clothes at some hotels too, but this is generally dry cleaning rather than a typical wash and it’s often much more expensive.

You’ll also find public washing facilities in most countries , which is exactly how we got by when we spent 6 months road tripping our way across Europe. You will pay around 3-4 euro per load to wash, and a similar amount per load to dry.

However, it’s always best to carry some soap with you too in case of emergencies, for example, if you run out of underwear!

First aid kit

An essential item for any backpacking Europe packing list has to be a first aid kit! 

They take up hardly any room at all and are vital for helping sort out those minor cuts and scrapes. Although you may not need to use it, it’s always best to have one on you. 

Here are some things that you should have in your first aid kit…

• Paracetamol
• Bandages & tape
• Antiseptic cream - Good for minor cuts and scrapes
• Scissors/nail clippers
• Moleskin tape - Perfect for blisters, especially if you plan to hike a lot! 
• Diarrhoea kit - Unfortunately, there’s always a chance that you’ll get ill on holiday. I always recommend carrying one of these! 
• Needles and thread
• Anti-sickness tablets - There are plenty of fantastic boat trips in Europe, and you don’t want to miss out on them due to motion sickness

Ready-made travel first aid kit

If you don’t yet own a travel first aid kit, then here’s a good option to buy.

It contains the majority of what you need and you can then just add in any other items you want to take with you.

Plus, it’s small enough to tuck away in your backpack and not take up much space.

For the ultimate packing list, there are several toiletries that you’ll need to take with you! 

Of course, it’s possible to purchase pretty much all of these while you're in Europe but they might be cheaper in your home country.

This is especially the case for us as the UK has some fantastic bargain stores! 

• Wash bag/toiletry bag - I’d recommend choosing a wash bag that has a handle as it’s easy to carry around, especially if you’re staying in a hostel and you have a shared bathroom!
• Shampoo & conditioner 2 in 1
• Dry shampoo
• 2 x toothpaste  
• 2 toothbrush travel container
• Disposable razors
• Shaving foam
• Electric razor
• Small perfume
• Small aftershave
• Men’s deodorant
• Women’s deodorant

Travel Banking

You won’t have a problem withdrawing cash in Europe as there are ATMs found everywhere, especially in the large cities.

Of course, if you’re travelling to somewhere more remote you may need to plan this out in advance but generally, you’ll be just fine! 

However, there’s one thing to discuss, my nemesis - bank withdrawal fees! 

Now, the thing with ATM fees is that although they do occur throughout Europe it really depends on the country you’re visiting. 

Before you go to withdraw cash, just double-check the screen before you proceed any further as it will tell you straight away! 

I’d also recommend taking more than one card, in fact, we always take four with us! 

Out of the four cards we have…

• 2 live in my wallet
• 1 lives in my big rucksack
• 1 lives in Cazzy’s big rucksack or day bag

Now, you may be wondering why we carry four cards on us! 

Well, it’s for emergencies really and the reason we carry them in different places is in case one of our bags gets stolen. Or, if we happen to leave one somewhere which we’ve never done…. Jokes, of course, we have!

This way, you’ll always have a backup so you’ll have no problems getting money out! 

What are the best banks in Europe?

Europe has plenty of fantastic banks and it’s unlikely that you’ll have any problems using your card or withdrawing money.

If you’re using Visa or Mastercard, and you struggle I’ll be very surprised! 

The banks in Europe will differ depending on which country you visit as they all have their own, but one you’re likely to see frequently is HSBC.

Just keep in mind the bank conversion fees when you’re withdrawing money, but luckily we’ve got something to help you with that…

Which travel cards do we use?

We’ve tried plenty of travel cards over the years, and each one seems to offer something different! 

However, our two favourites are Monzo and Revolut . 

Just keep in mind that these are UK-based cards, so you’d have to check if they are available in your country of origin. 

• Find Monzo here: Apple / Android
• Find Revolut here: Apple / Android

Now, let’s dive into why we love these two so much! 

Monzo and Revolut allow you to withdraw money just like any other debit card, and you can use them in normal card transactions.

They can both be used in any country in the world and you won’t be charged currency conversion fees! You’ll only need to pay a fee if you withdraw over a certain amount every month. 

One of the best things about these two is that they are FREE to use! You simply have to download the app, enter your details, and then they will send your card through.

Once you’ve activated it you’re good to go and use it as you travel across the world!

The one thing to keep in mind is that when you use it, just make sure you select the ‘pay in local currency’ option as you’ll get the best exchange rate.

We’ve actually written a comparison article ‘ Monzo Vs Revolut ’ if you’re looking to research this more in-depth!

Important Documents

Before heading to Europe, make sure you’ve got all the important documents that you’ll need! 

• Passport - This is the obvious one! 
• EHIC card - The EHIC Card stands for ‘European Health Insurance Card’ and it’s FREE. This is available for anyone living in the EU, EEA, and the United Kingdom, and will allow you to access state-provided healthcare
• Wallet to hold important documents - Cazzy has a plastic wallet that holds all our important documents so they’re all in the same place! 
• Driving license and international driving license - You’ll want to take your driving license with you for I.D purposes and if you’re planning to hire a car. Many countries only require your license, but some require an international driving license so you’ll need to check this before you go. If you’re from the UK you can pick an IDP up from the Post Office for a small fee. 
• Your COVID Pass - Not all countries require this, but some places will need your COVID pass if you’ve been vaccinated. The joys of travelling post-covid…
• Negative COVID test results - If you’re not fully vaccinated some countries require you to have a pre-departure test before arrival to check you’re negative. You’ll want to carry proof of this on you! 
• Travel insurance - I can’t stress enough how important it is to get travel insurance before you go! So many things can go wrong with travel and you NEED to be covered. If you’re from the US especially, then SafetyWing is one of the best options out there! There’s actually a SafetyWing review up on the website if you want to take a more in-depth look. If you’re from the United Kingdom it’s often best to search for deals through Compare the Market or other comparison tools.
• Print out of your travel insurance - You should always print out your travel insurance details so that you’ve got your policy on hand if anything goes wrong. This is especially handy if (let’s hope not) you end up in an emergency! 
• Copy of your passport - ALWAYS have a copy of your passport with you at all times. Not only will you need this for travelling between countries, but some hotels require your passport details during your stay. This way, you can hand them the printed version rather than your actual passport
• Copy of your vaccinations - Some countries require you to show proof of vaccinations before you enter. It’s more common in the likes of Asia, but it’s best to keep the document with you anyway!

Cameras & other tech

Europe is home to some of the most beautiful countries on Earth, so you’ll definitely want to capture the spectacular landscapes and beaches that you find here! 

Ranging from the Eiffel Tower in Paris to the rugged wilderness of Scotland , there are so many stunning locations to visit in this part of the world. 

Here’s a quick list of the photography gear that we’ve taken with us whilst travelling around Europe!

The one thing I can’t recommend enough is to invest in a good-quality DSLR camera! 

It’s a great way to up your photography game and capture some of the scenic landscapes and charming cities that are waiting for you in Europe.

It doesn’t really matter which one you choose as there are tons of options on the market, although you do need to make sure it’s great quality. Some of the most popular makes include Canon, Nikon, and Sony.

We use the Sony A7iii and couldn’t recommend it enough!

It’s been all around the world with us from Ireland to Alaska , and it never lets us down! 

What about lenses?

If you love taking photographs of beautiful destinations, then you NEED to get a wide-angle lens for your DSLR camera.

We purchased it before our trip to Bali so we could capture the rice paddies and volcanoes in all their glory, and not to be dramatic - but our life hasn’t been the same since! 

Using a wide-angle lens allows you to fully capture a landscape, and you’ll have so many fantastic photographs that you can remember your trip by.

There are plenty of options out there and it will all depend on your camera make, although Amazon has a nifty tool that allows you to check whether the lens will fit your model.

Handheld video camera

Although our blog is our baby, we’ve developed a love for YouTube along the way and we’re currently uploading videos to our YouTube channel ! 

There are plenty of blogging cameras to choose from, but we recommend the Canon Powershot G7 X Mark II as a great starter.

We’ve used this camera for a few years and you’re guaranteed to get great-quality photographs and video footage no matter where you go! It’s got fantastic sound recording too. 

Although DSLR cameras are great, sometimes you don’t want to lug them around all day, so it’s great to have a handheld video camera as a backup!

We recently upgraded to the Sony a7iii, which is a much more powerful DSLR, but it is probably far too much for most travellers.

Underwater camera / action camera

If you’re putting together a list of Europe travel essentials then I recommend investing in an underwater/action camera. 

The most notable brand is the GoPro and the newer models especially have lots to offer with incredible stabilisation, 4K footage, and a great-quality fish eye lens. 

Whether you’re looking to go snorkelling in Europe, hike in the mountains, or kayak on some of the beautiful lakes here, having an action camera opens up your photography/video opportunities. 

If you don’t fancy spending lots of money on a GoPro then there are plenty of GoPro alternatives out there. However, many of them don’t offer the same specs or quality!

If you’ve already got a DSLR and an action camera but you’re still looking to up your photography game, then why not invest in a drone?

Although they can be tricky to get your head around at first, they offer you the chance to capture insane photographs and angles of places that you’d never see otherwise! 

The DJI mini 2 is currently one of the best options on the market as it weighs less than 250g, which is lower than most weight restrictions in Europe.

However, you’ll need to check the drone laws in each country before flying it. 

Thankfully, most of Europe allows you to fly drones with some rules.

Not only is it light, but it charges quickly, offers amazing footage and photographs, and is fantastic value for money.

You can also go for the DJI Mini 3 if you don’t mind spending a bit more!

Here’s an in-depth guide to the best travel drones on the market.

Other Gadgets we travel with

If you’re putting together a packing list for travel to Europe then you can’t forget about your health and safety! 

Here are a couple of things that you NEED to pack…

• Mosquito repellant spray - This will depend on where you visit, the time of year, and the quality of the hotels you stay in but it’s always good to have! Not only will it repel mosquitos, but it deters other pesky critters too
• Plug-in mosquito deterrent - Another great way to keep mosquitoes and other bugs away!
• Sunscreen - Now this one is a MUST! I’m a big advocate for Sunscreen and always opt for 50+ or 30 SPF depending on the temperature and how cloudy it is
• Antimalarials - Although malaria is rare in Europe, you can never be too careful. Always check with your GP first to see if they recommend you take them or not
• Travel Padlock - Carry a few of these with you if you can! Not only will they give you peace of mind, but it also deters people from going near your bags as they know they won’t have much luck
• Hand Sanitiser - Thanks to the pandemic, we’ve all become a bit more cautious of catching bugs and viruses. I’d always recommend carrying hand sanitiser on you just in case you need to clean your hands!  ‍
• Antibacterial wipes - These are always good to have on you in case you drop your phone or something else somewhere questionable (like the toilet, we’ve all done it…)

Miscellaneous things to pack for Europe

Although I always recommend to pack light, if you’ve got some extra room then there are a few other items that will always come in handy! 

• Fold-down coffee mug - If you’ve got a coffee addiction like Cazzy, then we’d recommend picking up a fold-down coffee mug. This way you can avoid using disposable coffee cups all the time, and it doesn’t take up too much space either
• Reusable water bottle - Another great item to have if you’re looking to cut down on your plastic waste like us. Keeping hydrated is so important, especially when travelling as you’ll be very active and the weather can be extremely warm depending on where you’re heading too (We recommend Super Sparrow who do both coffee and water bottles!)
• Worldwide travel plug - Carrying a worldwide travel plug with you during your travels is essential. We usually carry two plugs with us so that we’ve got a backup if one ever gets lost. Although they’re pricier than single-use plug adaptors, they come in handy! 
• Pin to open sim card hole on phone - If you decide to get a cheap local sim then you’ll need a pin to open the sim card hole on your phone. It takes up next to no space, and you can just keep it in your wallet or purse 
• Dry bag - If you’re planning to head out on boat trips, spend a day at the beach, or go kayaking, then you’ll want to take along a dry bag. A 10-15 litre day bag is the perfect size for you to keep all your basic items from getting wet
• Quick drying towel - One of the best options for this is a micro-fibre towel as they dry super quickly! If you’re staying at a hostel or you’re planning to go on day trips, then it’s always best to keep one or two on you! 
• Playing cards - These are an absolute necessity! If you’re spending time on a long-haul flight or you’re trying to kill some time during the evening, then make sure you pack a deck of playing cards
• Earphones - Another must-have, especially for long journeys!
• Spare batteries - If you’ve got any gadgets that require batteries it’s always handy to keep some spare ones on you, especially if you’re staying somewhere remote
• Power bank - This is something really handy to carry on you and is great for emergencies. Whether you need to call someone or you require Google maps, it’s always best to carry a power source on you ‍
• Small notebook - Although this isn’t a must, many travellers choose to carry a small notebook on them. Whether you’re making notes on your trip, working out your itinerary, or simply playing 0’s & X’s, they’re quite handy to have

What NOT to pack for Europe!

Now that we’ve got through the perfect checklist for European travel, here are a couple of things that you don’t want to pack…

• A bag that’s too big - As I mentioned before, you won’t want to take a huge bag with you. If you decide to take a 70-litre bag you will likely fill it and that just makes your luggage heavier. You also won’t be able to bring souvenirs back with you! 
• Too many books - Even if you’re a bookworm, you won’t want to take too many books with you. They take up so much room and you’re much better off either packing a kindle or buying a book on the go as you travel around
• Lots of valuables - There’s no need to take lots of jewelry or valuables with you whilst travelling. This way, you won’t have to worry about personal items getting lost or stolen, especially items of sentimental value
• Sleeping bag - If you’re planning to stay in accommodation throughout your trip, then you definitely won’t need to pack a sleeping bag. All hotels, hostels, and B&Bs throughout the continent will supply you with bedding, although you will need to take one if you’re planning on camping to cut costs ‍
• Anything you’re not 100% sure on … this may sound like an obvious one, but if there’s anything you’re debating taking then it’s likely that you won’t need it.

Other items to add to your Europe packing list

Here are a few things that we don’t often take with us to Europe, but things that might come in handy for you…

• Packing Cubes - These are incredibly handy for keeping your clothes organised whilst travelling and they save so much room in your luggage!
• Money Belt  
• Waist Bag - A nifty little bag that’s secured around your waist to carry any belongings
• Ziplock bag - The perfect answer for separating your dirty laundry from your clean clothes. They don’t take up much room, and you can even attach them to the outside of your bag if you wish 
• Physical books/travel guides - Many people choose to purchase travel guides on their phone or kindle to save space, but you can always pick them up along the way! Many hostels and hotels offer book exchange services so you can always swap them
• Kindle - This is the perfect gadget to take with you if you’re keen on reading. This way you won’t have to lug around tons of books with you! 
• Bluetooth speaker  
• Extension cord  
• Torch - Definitely a must if you’re choosing to camp whilst in Europe. This way, you’ll be able to find your way in the dark when heading to the loo! 
• Selfie Stick  
• Waterproof Phone Case - If we go in the water then we tend to take our GoPro in but if you’ve got a good waterproof case for your phone then you can always try it. However, for me, it’s always a risk…
• Underwater dome for GoPro - These can help you create some awesome underwater shots if you have a GoPro
• Snorkel - Having your own snorkelling set is always handy if you’re a water baby as it saves you having to rent equipment all the time! 
• Binoculars - If you’re looking to spot wildlife in Europe then I recommend investing in a decent pair of binoculars. You can find plenty of awesome species on this continent ranging from bears to whales, so binoculars are worth their weight in gold…
• Travel pillow - Perfect for long-haul flights and other uncomfortable journeys!
• Ear Plugs - If you’re planning to stay in hostels and you’re a light sleeper then you’ll need these…
• Massage Ball - Travelling for a long period of time often isn’t very kind on the old muscles, so keeping a small massage ball with you can help ease any tension
• Hiking Boots - These are often quite chunky and heavy, but if you’re a keen hiker then they’re a must. Just wear them on flights so you’re not going to go over your luggage allowance 
• Multivitamins - If you’re a frequent traveller then it’s likely that you’ll get sick at some point! Naturally, you won’t eat as well as you would if you were at home, so multivitamins can help give you that boost 
• Laundry soap - Although you’ll find plenty of places/laundrettes to wash your clothes, it’s always handy to keep a bar of laundry soap on you. With this, you can wash small items in the shower if you’re running short (e.g. underwear)
• Toilet roll - Unlike in Asia, you’ll find that every public toilet block is likely to have toilet roll. However, keeping some in your day bag is always a good idea in case they’ve run out…

Top tips when packing for Europe

Here are some final travel tips to help you plan your travel list for Europe…

You can buy almost anything in Europe

If you’re worried about the weight of your luggage, or you’re not quite sure whether something is a travel necessity for Europe, then you can always buy items out there.

The only thing you’ll want to keep in mind is that some of the countries in Europe (especially the Nordic countries) are extremely expensive, and you’ll be paying a lot more for items here! 

Think carefully about where you’re visiting 

As I’ve mentioned previously Europe is HUGE and your packing list will all depend on which region you visit and the specific country! I’d recommend checking the specific climate for that country first before you start to pack.

You’ll also need to consider whether you’re looking to relax on the beach or you’d prefer to hit up some hiking trails, as that will heavily influence your travel packing list for Europe!

Pack versatile clothing if you can

One of the best tips I can give you is to pack versatile clothing! 

Whether you’re putting together a packing list for Europe in Spring or winter, having a variety of options that can be mixed and matched is vital. It means you can pack fewer outfits and save more room for the essentials.

Check your airline allowance for luggage

If you’re planning to do a long trip around Europe and you’re not planning to hire a car, interrail, or use public transport then you’ll be getting around by air.

The one thing to consider is that airlines vary between countries, and unfortunately, that means many of the luggage allowances will be different too. The last thing you want is to pack 20kg for your first country, and then have to restrict your items later down the line.

Make notes in a notebook or on your phone

Whether you’re planning a 6-month adventure through Europe or a 2-week trip, it’s always a good idea to jot some notes down on paper. This includes where you plan to visit and a rough idea of the activities you’d like to do.

This will help you figure out the things you need to pack for a trip to Europe. Likewise, you can always jot down your actual packing list to see if you’ve missed anything! 

Try to under pack your luggage 

Unfortunately, overpacking your luggage is something that everyone does! It’s so easy to do, and the best way to counteract this is by packing your case and then removing at least a quarter of your clothes.

This may sound drastic but you’ll be under the luggage allowance this way, which means you’ll have room to bring back souvenirs and other cool things you’ve found on your trip.

So, are you ready to put together the ultimate packing list for European travel?

As you can see there’s a lot of thought that goes into any Europe trip packing list! 

It all depends on which country you’re visiting, when, and what activities you plan on doing (hiking, relaxing on the beach etc). 

Hopefully, this guide has helped you plan out all the Europe packing essentials for your trip, and has given you some ideas of items that you may not have even thought of! 

If you’ve found this guide helpful and you’re planning another trip, we’ve also got packing lists for plenty of other countries including Bali , Sri Lanka , and Thailand . 

Not only that, but we've got a handy cruise packing list if you're planning to explore Europe that way (which is extremely popular).

For help planning the rest of your Europe adventure, here are some other guides you might find useful:

• Cheapest countries to visit in Europe
• Best things to do in Portugal
• Best road trips in Scotland

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Packing List for Europe: Essential Travel Items (+ printable checklist)

Packing… often rather a lot of effort. Therefore I have pulled together my go-to packing list for Europe! And keep reading for my printable packing list for you to download.

After years of travelling around Europe from country to country, I’ve pulled together my ultimate packing list for Europe (with a printable checklist for your own travels). I love the process of packing, but it can be a hard slog, especially if you’re off on a trip which is longer than usual.

I’ve spent weeks pulling together a suitcase before and often start packing way ahead of my trips. (I have also created a Packing List for Europe which is printable for you!)

The list below is an example of a Europe packing list based around a trip consisting of two weeks of travel, to around five countries. Of course, the printable packing list for Europe will change as per the seasons and it’s important to bear this in mind when pulling together your items for the trip. 

The idea is to break down the essential items for your trip and give you an idea of what you should carry in your suitcase or backpack for example. Here is my ultimate packing list for Europe!

Packing List for Europe

Sustainable fashion.

A topic really close to my heart is sustainable fashion. After years of travelling the world, it’s made me realise how much clothing is worn once and thrown into a landfill.

We should all be doing more to protect our planet and ensure we are putting as much back into the planet as we are taking out. But there are brands already setting the standard.

A brand which I love, and whose ethics around sustainability are second to none is GANT . 

Their vision is to make the world a more beautiful place and they believe that we should Never Stop Learning. Sustainability breathes throughout the GANT brand, promoting effortless style, but also long-lasting clothing, which is timeless and high-quality. 

And to celebrate their heritage of being a bio-based business, they continue to source traceable and sustainable plant-based materials globally. This is both beneficial to the brand, but also the planet. As a heritage brand being around since 1949 it’s really great to see that an older brand can be taught new tricks and aren’t afraid of necessary changes for a better world and future for us all. 

At the moment, going on holiday somewhere more than an hour away from your house seems like a very long way away.

However, as we look ahead at the coming year, one of the best treats we can give ourselves is to start thinking about where we want to go and what we want to do once the restrictions start to be lifted and we can treat ourselves to a good, proper, relaxing holiday.

It may be a little while before things are properly back to normal but we are all going to deserve a real break after all of this, so why not start thinking about the useful items you’re going to need?

There is a lot of uncertainty about when exactly we’ll be able to go on holiday and where we’ll be able to go, but some essentials remain the same no matter the season and no matter the location. Here are a few things you will always need in your travel bag.

Backpack or Suitcase

Whether you’re backpacking around Europe, skiing in the Alps, or travelling for business you will be need something to keep some form of luggage. I often travel with hand luggage only, as it makes for a quick exit when I arrive in a country – however, if you are off on a trip that lasts more than a few days I’d recommend buying a light-weight mid-size suitcase with wheels, or a flexible backpack.

I’ve tried many suitcases and backpacks over the years and I am yet to decide on my favourite. I have tried Eastpak, Osprey, Caribee, Mountain Warehouse and many more. I use my Eastpak suitcase the most, and love how light it is and flexible.

GANT is best known for their shirts and has been the original shirtmakers since 1949. They’ve always played a large role in British fashion, and they know a thing or two about how to design a seriously stylish shirt. GANT shirts are designed in order to flatter every body type and are the essence of any wardrobe and come in an array of shirt sizes .

GANT see the shirt as perhaps the most versatile item in every wardrobe and it’s certainly an item I recommend for you to take when travelling around Europe. The shirt is an essential item for any European trip, offering luxury, style but also comfort. A shirt can be worn with shorts, open on top of a floral dress or layered as part of a more formal outfit for the evening. Whatever the occasion, a GANT shirt always has you covered.

Bathing Suit

If you’re heading off to Europe over the summer you’ll going to want to take your swimming costume. Whether you are paddleboarding in Greece, cliff jumping in Cyprus or sailing in the Mediterranean – you’ll want to pack some beach essentials in your packing list for Europe. Even if it’s not summertime in Europe it never hurts to have a swimsuit in your suitcase. I travel with two one piece swimsuits, one active costume and one nicer one for the beach.

Rain Jacket

No matter the season a rain jacket is always an essential for travelling to Europe (and the rest of the world). I have a rain jacket by FatFace which I take with me everywhere and it’s yellow!

A formal outfit

Even if you plan on roughing it, you never know when you might get invited out for drinks at a nice bar or to a family event. I would suggest bringing a more formal outfit such as a black dress for the ladies and a shirt and chinos for the men. Most Europeans are pretty stylish, especially in the cities so make sure you’ve got one outfit that’s more formal.

Active Wear

I love to travel in active wear so end up bringing a kit with me anyway, but even if you don’t I would bring a pair of leggings and sports bra for those more adventurous activities on your travels through Europe. They’re also useful if you plan to go hiking or skiing for example and remember to also bring a good pair of trainers and /or hiking boots.

Scarves are great for fall and winter in Europe, and they can also act as a blanket too for long bus journeys or when it gets colder in the winter months. A versatile item with many uses!

Lightweight jumpers are nice for dressing up or down with other items. They can be worn with jeans and trainers for a day exploring, or added on top of a dress with boots for a more formal look. They are also vital if you are travelling to somewhere where the evenings get cooler or for cool nights.

Bring lots – but bring basics! I always travel with a black, white and grey plan tee, as well as a slogan tee for added personality. They go with everything and you can also wear then with jeans, skirts, under dresses and with shirts.

I am a black jeans lover. I own around 10 pairs of black jeans and one pair of blue jeans. But that’s okay, because the black jeans go with everything and again, can be dressed up or down for various situations. You can wear jeans for months without washing them and they still won’t stink. Plus, jeans are a staple in every European’s wardrobe – styled with a Breton tee and you look like a local.

Walking Shoes

When you’re packing for Europe know that a good pair of comfortable walking shoes is important for getting around European cities. I usually go for a sporty trainer for city explorations and then a hiking boot for the more adventurous days. My favourite hiking boots are from Merrell.

I take my Converse EVERYWHERE with me! And a good pair of Vans will last a long time. Personal preference!

Travel Adaptor

You will definitely need an adaptor for your electronics on your packing list for Europe. We always keep one handy in our carry-on bags, that way we can charge electronics on arrival or at the airport. Oh and TOP TIP – take an extension lead as it’s a great way to charge more items all at once with only one adapter!

Camera and memory card

If you’re travelling around Europe, you’ll want a really great camera to record your memories. I’ve literally just bought a Canon G7X Mark II and its such a great camera. It’s lightweight, compact and takes amazing photos that are just as good as my bigger DSLR – Nikon 3300D.

The Canon G7X also doesn’t scream HEY LOOK AT ME I’M A TOURIST. And remember to get a big memory card for all the photos – I have a 64GB memory card since I take lots of photos and video.

I take this handy little action camera everywhere with me – every trip I take it’s in my pocket ready to point and shoot! They aren’t cheap but they do provide you with amazing footage, and shoot within seconds so you’ll never miss a moment!

Wireless Range Extender

If you need to be on-the-line like me a lot then I’d recommend getting yourself a wireless range extender for your travels. It is helpful for extending the range of the WiFi in your hotel, or hostel and it means you’ve got your own little link up to the outside world and won’t have to fight for the wifi again.

This one is for the ladies, and I wanted to make note of it for anyone still wondering what to pack for a trip to Europe. I take to make up with me everywhere – I don’t take a lot but I do take the essentials.

Europe is fairly cheap for buying to make up so don’t worry too much about packing enough or running out. I usually pack 1 x Mascara, 1 x Face Powder, 1 x Concealer and 1 x Blusher. That’s usually enough for me and I will then top up if needed.

OTHER ITEMS

My absolute go-to for jewellery is Daisy London, a much-loved British jewellery brand known for beautiful, everyday jewellery with meaning.

Each piece is designed to be an extension of your own personal style, wherever you are in the world. Dreamt up in London’s Portobello Road over ten years ago, the brand has grown to cult status and is one of my favourite jewellery brands out there. Everytime I travel I always take my Daisy jewellery with me, including my ring collection . 

As a big fan of Marco Polo Travel Guides, I am constantly buying their books before a trip and a trip to Europe is no different. They’ve got loads of guide books for countries all over Europe, and they are easy to read, come with local insider tips and have a handy little map at the back for you to pull out and write over. I also use other travel blogs for inspiration for anything the guide book doesn’t provide me with!

Travel towels

Quick-dry travel towels are amazing if you’re staying in hostels during your trip to Europe. After eight years of travelling around the world, and staying in multiple hostels I have learned to never travel without one. They are light and fold up small, and can dry within one hour.

Water Bottle

Save the turtles bro! Always bring your own bottle with you when you travel to Europe – empty it before going through security though! I’ve never had a problem with the water in Europe, and it’s also saving the planet by buying less plastic bottles!

Now that we’re more conscientious about how and where we’re picking up germs, we should all be thinking about bringing our own food and water with us where possible, and using your own water bottle will certainly help minimise that risk.

The other most important reason for using your own water container is the same as it has always been: it helps cut out a huge amount of plastic waste for a more environmentally friendly way to stay hydrated.

Packing cubes

I travel a lot and therefore I am constantly on the lookout for ways to make travelling less stressful and more enjoyable. I have recently used packing cubes for my trip to Australia and New Zealand and only a few weeks into the trip the two main cubes had alright ripped or the zip had broken.

Then on a recent trip to IKEA, I realised they had also started selling their version of a packing cube in their travel and IKEA family range. (They have also started selling suitcases, I am intrigued to see how they match up to higher-priced brands.) Read my IKEA packing cubes review here .

Vape Fluid 

The vapers among us know that there is nothing more frustrating than being caught without proper supplies.

It’s easy enough if you’re in a city to pop into a shop and buy a quick, if expensive, replacement or back-up, but if you are heading out with the intention of getting as far away from everyone else as possible, you don’t want to be stuck in the middle of the countryside and find that your vape is suddenly out of juice.

Make sure that you’ve got enough fluid, batteries and replacement coils for your e-cigarette devices to cover any eventuality and you’ll save yourself from a whole lot of tetchy panic. You can find vape liquid here .

We have all been having a lot of screen time over the last twelve months, so much so that research charities have started voicing their concerns about what it’s doing to our eyesight. With that in mind, why not give your eyes a rest from all that blue light and get back into a good book?

The series you love will still be waiting on the streaming services when you get back, don’t worry! And while you’re taking a break from the binge-watches, why not try taking a little hiatus from social media too?

We’re not saying that you shouldn’t take lots of pictures of the scenic views from your break, but we have all done far too much doom-scrolling over the last year or so, and we owe it to our brains and our mental health to take that step back and reconnect with the world that is in front of us, not the one on our screens.

These are small but essential travel necessities for Europe as they can be crucial to your sleep. Where you’re flying in business class or sleeping in a hostel a good pair of earplugs will help you sleep, as well as a great eye mask – my favourite is from Tempur as it’s completely blackout!

What items have I missed?!

Let me know in the comments! I hope you get a lot of use out of my packing list for Europe.

Printable Packing List for Europe

**here’s my printable packing checklist**.

(Simply right click and save, then open in a word document as an image and print)

Airline Cabin Luggage Allowances: Guide to hand baggage sizes and weight restrictions

Once you’ve downloaded my printable packing list Europe, you can save yourself a whole lot of cabin baggage stress and potential additional charges when boarding by checking dimensions and weight restrictions before you travel.

I’ve pulled together Europe’s major airline’s cabin allowances into one easy to read the guide below. And if you’re fed up with waiting for your luggage at the carousel, and want to maximise what you can get in your cabin bag then check out these great top tips for travelling light with your hand luggage.

We’ve all experienced the anxiety of arriving at the airport, worrying about how heavy our bags are and whether they’ll exceed the luggage allowance at check-in. Should I really have packed two jackets for a beach holiday? Will they have a hairdryer at the hotel? Will they let me spread the weight between two bags? Sound familiar?

SEE MY FULL LUGGAGE ALLOWANCE  GUIDE FOR A TRIP TO EUROPE AND BEYOND

My travel tips and recommendations.

To book flights, I always use flight search engine, Skyscanner, I regularly use the Everywhere tool to find the cheapest places to travel. It’s how I get to travel so much all around the world. I find it the easiest way to compare flight prices across airlines and get the best deals. 

Accommodation

For accommodation, I usually book most of my hotels or hostels through  Booking.com.  I love using this platform as it provides me with some amazing deals for accommodation all around the world. Or if you prefer, I also recommend using Airbnb. If you haven’t signed up with Airbnb already, you can use  this link  to get £25 off your first visit!

Photography and Technology

Here is a list of the technology I always travel with:

• Canon G7X Mark II
• Canon EOS M50 and lens
• GoPro Hero Black 7
• DJI Mavic Pro
• RØDE VideoMic GO On Microphone

Travel Insurance

Picking travel insurance that covers you in all eventualities is an essential part of planning a trip for every single person. If you can’t afford travel insurance, you can’t afford to travel. You never know what’s around the corner.  World Nomads  is an affordable option that I personally recommend.  BOOK HERE

You can also find me on social media:  Facebook ,  Twitter,   YouTube  and  Instagram .

Sign up to  AirBnB with this link  and receive a £23 off your first booking.

To receive my articles and reviews straight to your inbox  SUBSCRIBE HERE .

Did you know I also vlog my trips? Make sure you subscribe to my YouTube channel so you get alerted when all my travel videos goes live…  CHECK THEM OUT HERE

Thank you for reading and as always happy adventuring! If you have any questions about the destination please leave these in the comments below.

If you’ve enjoyed this post, please  share it for me with all your friends and family!

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The Only Europe Packing List You Need (For Any Season!)

To save you time and stress from this task, we’ve compiled this ultimate Europe packing list. We’ve covered everything, from how to choose your luggage type for Europe to the best travel accessories. 

Not only will you find a broad information about essential items that you need to pack for any trip, but you will also find season-specific recommendations. These are based on more than 15 visits to Europe. 

We have traveled to multiple countries across Europe in all 4 seasons, so we have a pretty wide grasp on what you will need to have the best trip possible. 

Don’t leave home without:  Lonely Planet Europe (Travel Guide)

The Ultimate Europe Packing List

Table of Contents

How to Decide What to Bring:

• What will the weather be like: First, figure out what season it is you are visiting during. Europe is vast and depending on the time of year you may experience weather temperatures you are not used to. For example, Spring may be tank top and shorts weather in Spain, but Spring in Norway will most likely allow you to still see snow on the ground.
• What type of activities will you be doing: Is your European adventure going to include city sightseeing, beaches, hiking or camping? Or maybe you are after a mix of the above activities, whatever the case, mapping out a general plan will help to make sure you pack appropriately for your adventure.
• How long am I staying:  Are you planning to bring soap and do some “sink” laundry? Or maybe you want to bring a wide variety of items to minimize the amount of laundry you would have to do. Either way, decide ahead of time so you can bring the necessary items with you for doing your own laundry or maybe so you can budget for hotel laundry service. 

Best Travel Accessories for Europe

Europe Power Adapter

The first step, know what countries in Europe you are traveling to and do your research on which adapters you’ll need. Europe is on a different outlet style than the USA, Mexico & Canada.

So you will need an adapter to charge your devices. Plan to buy a few different ones to have options for multiple outlets. This is a Europe packing list essential.               

  Our Top Recommended Power Adapters:

• European Travel Plug Adapter, TESSAN International Power Plug with 2 USB
• European Plug Adapter 4 in 1 US to Europe Travel Plug Adapter with 2 USB Ports 2 Outlets, European Type C Plug
• World Travel Adapter Kit by Ceptics – QC 3.0 2 USB + 2 US Outlets, Surge Protection, Plugs for Europe

Any type of headphone is a great addition to your packing list. We personally like the over the ear headphones as opposed to earbuds as I feel you can wear them longer without ear irritation.

Many headphones now days offer noise-canceling properties to help you check out of your surroundings and relax.

Download hours of music, podcasts and even Netflix shows on your phone and you’ll be able to easily pass those long travel days.

  Our Top Recommended Headphones:

• Beats Studio3 Wireless Noise Canceling Over-Ear Headphones
• Bose QuietComfort 35 II Wireless Bluetooth Headphones-Noise-Cancelling
• Sony Noise Cancelling Headphones-Wireless Bluetooth Over the Ear Headphones

Camera  

When setting off on a European adventure you will definitely need a great camera to capture your photos.

Nowadays, several phone cameras are up to the task of capturing great images and are really handy since you will undoubtedly have your phone nearby at all times.

However, it is nice to have a separate camera for capturing truly unique shots with the added benefit of not using your phone’s battery (in case you need it) and multiple memory storage cards.

A personal favorite of ours is the Sony RX100VA as it is a great point and shoot camera that will fit in your pockets for easy accessibility.  

  Our Top Recommended Cameras:

• Sony RX100VA 20.1MP Digital Camera
• Nikon D7500 DX-Format Digital SLR Body
• GoPro HERO 7 Black

Portable Charger

Finding yourself in a situation where you need your device but it is dead and there is no power outlet on site. Having a portable charger can relinquish those worries.

Portable power banks are about the size of your hand and can easily be carried along in your day pack. Buy one with at least 10,000mAh which will be able to charge your device multiple times throughout the day if needed.

  Our Top Recommended Portable Chargers:

• Anker PowerCore 10000 Power Bank
• Portable Charger Power Bank 25000mAh
• Portable Charger Anker PowerCore 20100mAh

Passport and Travel Document Holder

Need a designated place for your passport and travel documents so you know where they are at all times? A travel document holder is a perfect solution.

Not only do they hold your important documents, but they can also hold money, credit cards and any other important items you may be carrying.

To add more peace of mind, search for RFID certified holders. That way you can throughout your day and know no one can scan your documents or steal information.

Our Top Recommended Passport & Document Holders:

• Travel Wallet RFID Blocking Document Organizer Bag, Family Passport Holder
• Zoppen Passport Holder Travel Wallet for Women Rfid Blocking
• Travel Wallet Passport Holder, RFID Document Organizer

Travel Towel

It is a good idea to pack your own quick-drying towel for your adventures throughout Europe. They are super handy and usually pack down into a small hand size bag.

We recommend buying a microfiber towel since they dry quickly and are not as bulky as a regular house or beach towels. There are multiple sizes and colors available as well.

  Our Top Recommended Travel Towel:

• Rainleaf Microfiber Towel, 30 X 60 Inches
• OlimpiaFit Three-Towel Set
• PackTowl Personal Microfiber Towel

No matter where your European adventure brings you, it will most likely involve plenty of time spent outside in the sun. In order to protect your eyes, you should always wear a good pair of sunglasses.

When it comes to sunglasses you will find a lot of options, but always make sure you have a pair with UV protection. If you can, also opt for a pair that are polarized as well.

Polarized sunglasses reduce the glare from the sun for a clearer view. However, just because they are polarized does not mean they offer UV protection, so always double-check. 

Find a pair that fit well. They shouldn’t pinch your nose, put pressure on your temples or fall off when you look down. 

  Our Top Recommended Sunglasses:

• Costa Polarized Sunglasses
• Oakley Sunglasses
• Suncloud Polarized Sunglasses.
• Costa Halyard Wire Retainers Black

Sleeping Essentials

If your Europe travels will find you staying in the ever-popular hostel, you may want to consider some earplugs and an eye mask to help you sleep through the comings and goings of guests in your shared room.

They are also a good idea for travel days on trains and airplanes to help you get some rest. A sleeping mask and earplugs can be the difference between good sleep and no sleep at all.

  Our Top Recommended Sleeping Essentials:

• Alaska Bear Natural Silk Sleep Mask, Blindfold, Super Smooth Eye Mask
• EAROS ONE High Fidelity Acoustic Filters for Noise Reduction
• Ear Plugs Bell-Shaped 60 Pairs Ultra Soft Earplugs with Aluminum carry case

Travel Pillow

A travel pillow can be your saving grace. It is the difference between a semi-decent rest during transportation and a sore kinked neck.

There are several different options from “high end” memory foam to self-inflatable for space-saving. Any pillow at all will come in handy. I’ve even used mine on camping trips and in hotels if the pillows are super flat.

  Our Top Recommended Travel Pillows:

• Twist Memory Foam Travel Pillow for Neck, Chin, Lumbar and Leg Support
• Everlasting Comfort Travel Pillow 100% Pure Memory Foam Neck Pillow
• Ergonomic Travel Pillow- Memory Foam Neck Pillow for Airplane Breathable & Washable

Medications

I cannot stress enough the importance of bringing along a little medication kit for yourself. You never know when a cold, headache or stomach ache will strike.

You don’t have to bring a huge kit, as you can get them in Europe as well. But the convenience of knowing they are with you will reduce the stress of having to find them in an unfamiliar location when/if you need them.

Our Top Recommended Medication kits:

• TravelPakRx–A Complete Travel Size Medicine Kit
• Pac-Kit 78 Piece Medication Triage Pack
• The Complete Medicine First Aid Kit-12 Different Medications

Travel Water Bottles

You never know when you’ll find the next place to get water. Make sure you fill up before you leave your hostel, hotel, or Airbnb to prevent running into that problem.

Not to mention it’s cost-effective and you are helping the environment in the process.

Our Top Recommended Travel Water Bottles :

• S’well 15 oz Insulated, Double-Walled Stainless Steel Water Bottle
• Nomader BPA Free Collapsible Sports Water Bottle
• CamelBak Eddy Insulated Water Bottle

Travel Lock

Most hostels and transportation on trains do not provide lockable storage. Bring your own lock to use so you have peace of mind knowing your items are safe.

  Our Top Recommended Travel Locks:

• TSA Approved Cable Luggage Locks, Re-settable Combination with Alloy Body
• Master Lock 4688D Set Your Own Combination TSA Accepted Luggage Lock 1 Pack
• Samsonite Travel Sentry 2-Pack Brass Key Locks

Headlamp or Small Flashlight

A headlamp or flashlight should be an absolute must if your adventures will include hiking or camping while in Europe. You never know when it will come in handy and it’s best to be over-prepared than underprepared.

In addition to being of great use for outdoor activities, you can also utilize a flashlight or headlamp for maneuvering around your hostel during late night or early morning or using it for reading your guidebooks at night.

Our Top Recommended Headlamps/Flashlights:

• Black Diamond Spot Headlamp, Octane, One Size
• PETZL – TIKKINA Headlamp, 150 Lumens, Standard Lighting, Black
• LED Flashlight, Small and Super Bright LED Tactical Torch, Handheld Flash Light

Small Zip-Lock Bags

Bringing along some zip-lock bags can prove very handy. They are a great place to store toiletries when going through airport security, or to use if something is leaking.

Not to mention they are lightweight and take up no space in your luggage.

Our Top Recommended Storage Bags:

• TSA Approved Fly Travel Toiletry Bag Makeup Pouch
• Ziploc Storage Bags, quart, 80 Count
• Amazon Brand – Quart Food Storage Bags, 150 Count

Multi-Purpose Laundry/Body Soap

Kill two birds with one stone. Even though you are traveling, those life chores never stop, including laundry.

Most places offer laundry soap for a fee, but if you get stuck needing to wash your clothes and have no access to facilities or they don’t offer soap, at least you have the tools to wash your clothes if need be.

Our Top Recommended Laundry/Body Soaps:

• Remedy Soap Tea Tree Oil Body Wash & Soap
• Dr. Bronner’s – Pure-Castile Liquid Soap

It never hurts to have a guidebook. I find they offer invaluable knowledge and small tidbits of information about a place that you couldn’t find elsewhere.

Not to mention, if your phone dies or you can’t get cell service a travel guidebook can be your saving grace.

If you plan on visiting many countries in Europe purchasing a Europe guidebook will be best to carry with instead of purchasing a guidebook for each country.

Our Top Recommended Europe Guidebooks:

• DK Eyewitness Travel Guide Europe
• Fodor’s Essential Europe (Travel Guide)
• Rick Steves Best of Europe

Best Luggage for Travel in Europe

Europe is very backpack friendly and the ideal way to explore. Deciding on the length of travel and your activities will help you determine what size bag you will need.

You can find travel backpacks in many sizes ranging from personal size to checked luggage size.

Below are a few of our favorite carry-on size backpacks.

Our Top Recommended Travel Backpacks:

• Osprey Porter 46 Backpack
• Nomatic Travel Backpack
• Kelty Redwing 40 Backpack

Between cobbled streets and getting on and off transit, roller bags may be more trouble than they are worth.

However, if your adventures have you staying in a destination for a longer period of time between transit days, they are a good choice.

Not to mention, you won’t have to carry it on your back.

Our Top Recommended Roller Bags:

• American Tourister Moonlight Expandable Hardside Luggage
• AmazonBasics Ripstop Rolling Travel Luggage Duffle Bag With Wheels
• OGIO International Layover Luggage

Packing Cubes

Compatible for backpacks and roller bags, packing cubes will help keep you organized throughout your travels and will save you space.

They also provide travelers with an excellent way of compartmentalizing their travel items while still keeping them accessible. Cubes also ensure that you’ll be packing to the right dimensions of your suitcase or bag.

We enjoy the simplicity of being able to pull out one cube for something we need and can easily repack all the cubes without having to repack a pile of clothes.

Our Top Recommended Packing Cubes:

• Veken 6 Set Packing Cubes
• Bagail 6 Set Packing Cubes-Various Sizes
• AmazonBasics 4 Piece Packing Travel Organizer Cubes Set

Whether you are backpacking or bringing a roller bag, carrying a personal day bag is a must!

You most definitely will not be walking through the streets all the time with your luggage. Try to opt for something comfortable and easy to carry.

Some weather-proofing is also a plus for rainy days.

  Our Top Recommended Day Packs:

• Floating Waterproof Dry Bag Backpack
• ZBRO Dry Bag with 2 Pockets, Padded Straps, and Reflective Stripe
• Earth Pak- Waterproof Dry Bag

Mesh Dirty Laundry Bag

Not only is a mesh laundry bag a great place to keep all your dirty clothes, but it will also make washing them simpler.

If you are taking your clothes to a laundromat, throw the whole bag in the wash to prevent you from losing any items.

Our Top Recommended Laundry Bags:

• Set of 5 Mesh Laundry Bags-1 Large, 2 Medium& 2 Small Bags Laundry
• Whitmor Mesh Laundry Bag White
• 2 Pack (1 Large & 1 Medium) – Delicates Laundry Bags

Clothing for Spring & Summer Europe Travel

Lightweight Clothing

Packing tops for a summer trip in Europe is a fine balance between looking good and being comfortable. As unflattering as it may be during those summer months you can expect to be sweaty.

Having 2-3 T-shirts allows you to swap before anything starts to smell. Tank tops are also fantastic options as they are perfect for those summer months and you can explore feeling a little cooler than if in a t-shirt.

Also, consider bringing some lightweight shawls or cardigans for those cooler summer nights.

Our Top Recommended Women’s Tops:

• prAna Women’s Trysten Tank Top Silver Spray
• Leggings Depot Jogger Track Pants w/Pockets
• Women’s Loose Casual Long Sleeved Open Front Breathable Cardigan
• Women’s Sleeveless Long Maxi Dresses Plus Size with Side Pocket

Our Top Recommended Men’s Tops:

• prAna Men’s Stretch Zion Lightweight, Durable, Water Repellent Pants
• Columbia Men’s Tamiami II Short Sleeve Fishing Shirt
• Fruit of the Loom Men’s Crew Neck T-Shirt Multipack
• Eddie Bauer Men’s Guide Pro Shorts

Rain Jacket

It may be summer, but the chance of rain is still very real. How disappointing would it be if you had to cancel your plans because you didn’t have appropriate attire?

Also, don’t let luggage space stop you from leaving your rain jacket behind. There are many rain jackets that can stuff down to pocket size.

Even a plastic poncho will do. It’s lightweight, small, waterproof and can be an adventure saver.

• Marmot Essential Women’s Lightweight Waterproof Rain Jacket
• Waterproof Lightweight Hooded Rain Jacket
• Columbia Women’s Switchback Lined Long Jacket
• Columbia Men’s Watertight II Waterproof, Breathable Rain Jacket
• Arc’teryx Zeta SL Jacket Men’s
• Amazon Essentials Men’s Water-Resistant Softshell Jacket

Active-wear

During your trip to Europe be prepared to walk everywhere. Active-wear is comfortable and lightweight, making a day of exploring a breeze. They are also great options for travel days.

Choose items that are modest enough to wear into churches and basilicas if needed. You never know when you may stumble upon something and you never want your wardrobe to prevent you from exploring it.

Our Top Recommended Women’s Active-wear:

• Beyond Yoga Spacedye High Waist Midi Legging
• Workout Tank Tops for Women – Racerback Exercise Gym Shirts(Pack of 3)
• Amazon Essentials Women’s Studio Relaxed-Fit Lightweight Crewneck T-Shirt
• Columbia Women’s Back Beauty Capri Legging

Our Top Recommended Men’s Active-wear:

• Men’s Quick Dry Fit Dri-Fit Short Sleeve Active Wear
• Arc’teryx Cronin Pant Men’s
• prAna Men’s Over Rock Jogger

Jeans are versatile which makes them a Europe packing clothing essential. It doesn’t take much to mix and match tops and shoes to create a different look each day.

On those cooler days or evenings out, jeans are a great choice. Just don’t pack too many as they are heavy and take much longer to dry after a wash than other pant choices.

Our Top Recommended Women’s Jeans:

• Lucky Brand Women’s Mid Rise Sweet Straight Jean
• Eddie Bauer Women’s Boyfriend Jeans – Slim Leg
• Levi’s Women’s 505 Straight Jeans, Ambiance

Our Top Recommended Men’s Jeans:

• Wrangler Authentics Men’s Classic 5-Pocket Regular Fit Jean
• Amazon Essentials Men’s Athletic-Fit Stretch Jean
• Levi’s Men’s 505 Regular Fit-Jeans

Comfortable Shoes

Walking is the way to explore Europe. You can expect to be on your feet from dawn till dusk and having a comfortable pair of shoes goes a long way.

Packing a good pair of sneakers or a comfy pair of shoes could make or break how long you spend exploring each day. So don’t skimp when it comes to taking care of your feet!

Be sure to wear them in before your adventure if you buy new to avoid sore feet and blisters.

Our Top Recommended Women’s Shoes:

• Dr. Scholl’s Shoes Women’s Madison Shoe
• Skechers BOBS Women’s Bobs Plush-Peace & Love Ballet Flat
• Merrell Women’s Sandal

Our Top Recommended Men’s Shoes:

• Sperry Mens Bahama II Boat Washed Sneaker
• Skechers Men’s Relaxed Fit-Elent-Mosen Boat Shoe
• Teva Men’s Forebay Sandal

Wool wool wool! Trust us, your feet will appreciate it. Wool socks will whisk away the sweat during those hot summer days, but will also keep your feet warm during cooler times.

Cotton can trap moisture, which can cause your foot to sweat and slide around in your shoes. This could eventually lead to nasty blisters. No one wants blisters during their vacation.

Our Top Recommended Women’s Socks:

• Under Armour Essential No-Show Liner Socks (6 Pairs)
• CelerSport Ankle Athletic Running Socks (6 Pairs)
• Amazon Essentials Women’s 10-Pack Lightly Cushioned Ankle Socks

Our Top Recommended Men’s Socks:

• Dickies Men’s All-Purpose Work Stain Resister Crew Socks
• Puma Men’s No show Sport Socks, Moisture Control, Arch Support 8 pairs
• Amazon Essentials Men’s 6-Pack Performance Cushioned Athletic No-Show Socks

Bathing Suit/Board Shorts

Always bring a bathing suit. They are small, compact, and virtually weightless making it an easy item to pack.

For the ladies, we recommend bringing your favorite bikini and maybe a one-piece if you will be participating in some more active water adventures.

Bringing two suits ensures you will always have a dry one to use.

For men, we recommend two swimsuits as well. Choose a lightweight pair that falls just above the knee that is flexible and will allow for movement.

Our Top Recommended Women’s Bathing Suits:

• Monokini Slimming Backless V-Neck Swimwear Bathing Suits
• Women’s High Neck Two Piece Bathing Suits Top Ruffled High Waist
• O’Neill UV Sun Protection Womens Basic Rash Guard

Our Top Recommended Men’s Bathing Suits:

• Kanu Surf Men’s Barracuda Swim Trunks
• Speedo Marina Ii Volley 20″ Workout Shorts & Swim Trunks
• Speedo Men UPF 50+ Easy Long Sleeve Swim Tee

It is a must-pack item. Small yet stylish and perfect for Europe summer weather it would hard to argue not to bring it.

Pick something that falls around the knee and remember to always carry a scarf or cover up for exploring holy places.

Our Top Recommended Sun Dresses:

• Women’s Summer High Neck Flower Printed Sleeveless Casual Dress
• Women’s Dresses Summer Tie Front V-Neck Button Down A-Line Backless Swing Midi Dress
• Women’s Summer Floral Dress Spaghetti Strap Button Down Sundress

Sandals or Flats

Bringing a great pair of flats and sandals is a must for me. Flats are an awesome transition item to wear with a nicer outfit for dinner and comfy sandals are a foot saver during those hot summer months.

They are smarter choices for your ankles than heels and will take up little to no space in your luggage.

Our Top Recommended Women’s Sandals/Flats:

• Amazon Essentials Women’s Ballet Fl at
• Crocs Women’s Swiftwater Sandal
• Skechers Cali Women’s Regga Slim Gladiator Sandal

Our Top Recommended Men’s Sandals/Flats:

• Sperry Men’s Bahama II Boat Washed Sneaker
• Crocs Men’s Swiftwater River Sandal
• KEEN Men’s Newport H2 Sandal

Clothing for Fall & Winter Europe Travel

Thermal Long Sleeve Shirt

Staying warm is about starting at the base and working outward. Having a thick long sleeve thermal layer can be the deciding factor if you stay warm throughout the day or not.

What is also nice about this material is it doesn’t trap foul odors, so it can be worn more than once if left to air out overnight.

Our Top Recommended Women’s Long Sleeve Shirts:

• Amazon Essentials Women’s Classic-Fit Long-Sleeve Crewneck T-Shirt
• Angelina Women’s Fleece Lined Long Sleeve Thermal Top (3 pack)
• Eddie Bauer Women’s Myriad Thermal V-Neck
• Eddie Bauer Women’s Sweatshirt Sweater Henley

Our Top Recommended Men’s Long Sleeve Shirts:

• Eddie Bauer Men’s Eddie’s Favorite Thermal Henley Shirt
• Hanes Men’s Long-Sleeve Beefy Henley T-Shirt
• Amazon Essentials Men’s Regular-Fit Long-Sleeve Henley Shirt
• Icebreaker Merino Men’s Everyday Long Sleeve Crew

Thermal Pants  

Like the thermal long sleeve shirt, bottoms are no different and should not be ignored. A thick merino wool base pant can cut away any biting chill that comes your way.

Our Top Recommended Women’s Thermal Pants:

• Fruit of the Loom Women’s Beyondsoft Waffle Thermal Pants
• Icebreaker Merino Women’s Wmns 175 Everyday Leggings
• Smartwool Women’s Baselayer Bottom – Merino 250 Wool Performance Pant

Our Top Recommended Men’s Thermal Pants:

• Duofold Men’s Mid Weight Double Layer Thermal Pant
• Smartwool Men’s Base Layer Bottom – Merino 250 Wool Active Pant
• Columbia Men’s Midweight Base Layer Tights

Comfortable Pants

Put on over top of the thermal pant travel pants are some of the best during winter. As they are made to sustain the elements.

Our Top Recommended Women’s Travel Pants:

• Eddie Bauer Women’s Guide Pro Pants
• prAna Women’s Mantra Pant
• Columbia Women’s Standard Saturday Trail II Stretch Pant

Our Top Recommended Men’s Travel Pants:

• Columbia Men’s Flex ROC Pant
• Eddie Bauer Men’s Legend Wash Flex Chino Pants

Fleece Jacket 

Working outward, after your thermal long sleeve comes to the fleece jacket. The fleece acts as an insulation layer for winter weather but is a great jacket in itself for calm Fall days when there isn’t rain or wind. 

Our Top Recommended Women’s Fleece Jackets:

• Columbia Women’s Benton Springs Full Zip Jacket, Soft Fleece with Classic Fit
• Amazon Essentials Women’s Full-Zip Polar Fleece Jacket
• The North Face Women’s Osito 2 Jacket

Our Top Recommended Men’s Fleece Jackets:

• Amazon Essentials Men’s Full-Zip Polar Fleece Jacket
• Marmot Drop Line Men’s Jacket, Lightweight 100-Weight Sweater Fleece
• Columbia Men’s Granite Mountain Fleece Jacket

Down Jacket

Following the fleece layer is the down jacket . There are two types, real down and synthetic down. A synthetic jacket is more durable against the wet weather but doesn’t pack down quite as small as the real down jacket.

Both are equally warm, it is up to you which you prefer. Try to buy water and wind resistant jacket for extra warmth.

Our Top Recommended Women’s Down Jackets:

• Amazon Essentials Women’s Lightweight Water-Resistant Packable Hooded Down Jacket
• Columbia Women’s Standard Heavenly Long Hooded Jacket
• Eddie Bauer Women’s CirrusLite Down Jacket

Our Top Recommended Men’s Down Jackets:

• Amazon Essentials Men’s Lightweight Water-Resistant Packable Hooded Puffer Jacket
• Eddie Bauer Men’s CirrusLite Down Jacket
• Marmot Guides Down Hoody Men’s Winter Puffer Jacket

Most of your body heat escapes through your head, so there is no reason you shouldn’t bring a warm hat along on your trip.

There are a variety of styles available and all hats pack down relatively small. Find one that is comfortable with wind resistance for extra warmth.

Our Top Recommended Women’s Warm Hats:

• C.C Chunky Soft Stretch Cable Knit Warm Fuzzy Lined Skully Beanie
• F&N Story Lady Beret Wool Beret Chic Beanie Winter Hat
• Fancet Women’s 100% Merino Wool Knit Visor Beanie Newsboy Cap Winter

Our Top Recommended Men’s Warm Hats:

• Connectyle Outdoor Classic Basic Men ‘s Warm Winter Hat
• Carhartt Men’s Akron Hat
• Amazon Essentials Men’s 2-Pack Knit Beanie Hat

Thin Fingerless Gloves

It may be winter but that doesn’t stop anyone from taking photos or using their phones outdoors. Using fingerless gloves or smartphone compatible gloves, keep your hands warm while snapping those fantastic Europe shots.

They will also save you the hassle of constantly removing your gloves to take photos or use your phone. Small and virtually weightless these are an easy item to pack.

Our Top Recommended Women’s Gloves:

• Outdoor Research Fairbanks Fingerless Gloves
• Winter Warm Touchscreen Gloves for Women
• Women’s Screen Gloves Warm Lined Thick Winter Gloves

Our Top Recommended Men’s Gloves:

• Levi’s Men’s Heathered Knit Fingerless Gloves
• Timberland Men’s Magic Glove with Touchscreen Technology
• The North Face Etip Glove

Not only can scarves add an extra layer of warmth, but they are also a stylish accessory for any outdoor outfit. Scarves are also great for those warm Fall days when you may need a cover-up to enter some holy places.

Our Top Recommended Women’s Scarves:

• Women’s Plaid Blanket Winter Scarf Oversized
• Women’s Thick Ribbed Knit Winter Infinity Circle Loop Scarf
• Plum Feathers Super Soft Luxurious Cashmere Feel Winter Scarf

Our Top Recommended Men’s Scarves:

• Alpine Swiss Men’s Plaid Scarf Soft Winter Scarves
• Calvin Klein Men’s Fringed Logo Scarf
• Dockers Men’s Soft Winter Scarf

There’s nothing like a wool sock to keep your toes warm during the chilliness of Fall and Winter. We like to use Merino wool socks because they wick away sweat and control odor, leaving your feet nice and warm.

Our Top Recommended Women’s Warm Socks:

• Darn Tough Vermont Women’s Merino Wool Micro Crew Cushion Socks
• Merino Wool Hiking & Trekking Socks (3 pairs)
• Merrell Women’s 3 Pack Cushioned Performance Hiker Socks

Our Top Recommended Men’s Warm Socks:

• Kirkland Signature Men’s Outdoor Trail Socks Merino Wool Blend 4 Pairs
• Merino Wool Hiking Socks for Men (3 Pairs)
• Merino Wool Ankle Socks for Men (4 pairs)

Waterproof Boots

Sneaker and walking shoes may not cut it during late Fall and Winter in Europe. Wet cold feet are sure to ruin anybody’s day.

Opting for a pair of warm waterproof boots will help ensure your feet stay warm and dry on even the wettest and coldest days of your trip.

Our Top Recommended Women’s Waterproof Boots:

• Teva Women’s W DE LA Vina Dos Chelsea Boot
• Sperry Women’s Saltwater Boots
• Merrell Women’s Encore Kassie MID Waterproof Fashion Boot

Our Top Recommended Men’s Waterproof Boots:

• crocs Men’s Allcast Waterproof Duck M Snow Boot
• Skechers Men’s Relaxed Fit Segment – Dorton Boot
• Sperry Men’s Cold Bay Chukka Boots

Toiletries for Europe Travel

Solid Shampoo/Soap

Solid soaps last longer than liquid, which can save you money in the long run. Also with solid shampoos and soap, you don’t have to worry about TSA agents confiscating your soap because you were over the liquid limit. 

Our Top Recommended Solid Shampoo/Soap:

• Christophe Robin Hydrating Shampoo Bar with Aloe Vera
• J.R. Liggett’s Old Fashioned Shampoo Bar 3.5 Ounces (Variety 3 Pack)
• Ethique Eco-Friendly Solid Shampoo Bar for Normal-Dry Hair, Damage Control – Sustainable Natural Shampoo

Peppermint Oil

It comes in small bottles that are TSA approved and fantastic for covering up any odors that occur during traveling. Whether that is people sitting next to you or perhaps you begin to emit a small odor after 36 hours of travel. Peppermint oil can save the day.

Put a small drop under your nose to cover any nasty smells, or apply it like perfume if you don’t want anyone smelling you!

Our Top Recommended Peppermint Oils:

• Now Essential Oils, Peppermint Oil 100% Pure, 1-Ounce
• Peppermint Essential Oil 15ml by Young Living Essential Oils
• Organic Peppermint Roll-On Essential Oil RollerBall (2 PACK-10mL bottle)

Wet wipes are such a handy item to have with you at any time. They are great for giving yourself a little wipe down if it’s been a long travel day or maybe a sweaty day out hiking. This way you are also never caught without toilet paper.

Our Top Recommended Wet Wipes:

• Wet Ones Antibacterial Hand Wipes, 20 Count (Pack Of 10)
• DUDE Wipes Flushable Wet Wipes Dispenser (3 Packs 48 Wipes)
• Cottonelle FreshCare Flushable Wipes for Adults

Tooth Brush Cover

Bacteria is everywhere. Protecting your toothbrush can protect you from foreign bacteria that could possibly get you sick.

Our Top Recommended Toothbrush Covers

• GUM Antibacterial Toothbrush Covers For Travel or Home, 4 Covers
• Steripod Clip-on Toothbrush Protectors (4 Total)
• Reach Toothbrush Cover, 4 Pack

One of the great joys of being outside on vacation is basking in the warm glow of the sun. However, like so many of life’s pleasures, it’s best done in moderation.

Always pack sunscreen for your adventures and make sure it’s one you are familiar with. The worst thing is to start applying your sunscreen and you don’t like how it goes on or how it smells.

Also try to find one with zinc oxide as the main ingredient, because zinc oxide provides a physical barrier from the sun in addition to the many chemical barriers all sunscreens contain.

Our Top Recommended Sunscreens:

• REN Clean Screen Mineral SPF 30 Mattifying Face Sunscreen – 1.7 oz
• EltaMD UV Sport Sunscreen Broad-Spectrum SPF 50, Water-Resistant
• TruKid Sunny Days Sport SPF 30 Plus Water-resistant UVA/UVB Sunscreen Lotion

Travel First Aid Kit

Just like having a small medication kit with you may come in handy so will having a small first aid kit. You never know when you will need a band-aid or medical wrap.

Small injuries happen all the time. Better to be prepared and have what you need, than to need something and not have it.

Our Top Recommended Travel First Aid Kits:

• First Aid Only 299 Piece All-Purpose First Aid Kit, Soft Case
• Johnson & Johnson All-Purpose Portable Compact Emergency First Aid Kit 140 pc
• DeftGet First Aid Kit – 163 Piece Waterproof Portable Essentials

Not finding what you are looking for? Check out our favorite places to go shopping for travel gear.

• Shop Columbia – The industry leader in outdoor apparel and products; You can find anything from great jackets, gloves, hats, shirts and travel pants.
• Shop REI – They offer some of the best outdoor gear around. We love REI since they have a one-year return policy. Love it or hate it no questions, guaranteed.
• Shop Moosejaw – Has a huge selection of outdoor gear at killer prices.

More on Europe:

• 10 Cheapest Places to Travel in Europe
• Train Travel in Europe: Ultimate Eurail Pass Guide
• 15 Best Cities in Europe to Visit
• How to Choose the Best Travel Bag for Europe
• Travel Insurance for Europe Vacation: Do I Need It?
• When is the Best Time to Visit Europe?
• Best Places to Fly a Drone in Europe
• Viking River Cruises in Europe: What to Expect

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Lina is an award-winning photographer and writer that has been exploring the world since 2001. She has traveled to 100 countries on all 7 continents. Member: SATW, NATJA, ATTA, ITWA

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Ultimate Packing List for Europe for all seasons

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Europe is our favorite continent of visit. In a given year, we visit this mighty continent 1-2 times all the way from North America and pack everything in our lovely backpack carry-on. We have visited different countries at different times of the year and that has given us an in-depth understanding of the packing needs to not only survive but enjoy European countries to the fullest. So here is our ultimate packing list for Europe, with travel tips.

Let’s start with a quick snapshot of Europe. This comprehensive post has Europe packing list recommendations by season – spring, summer, fall, and winter. We have included some exceptions for certain regions or countries in Europe where additional items may be required due to geographical variations. A style guide including a list of accessories to take along with you is also highlighted here.

Europe is a HUGE continent and there are variations across the continent in terms of climate. For ease of understanding, let’s split Europe into four (4) regions.

• Western Europe – They have an Oceanic climate, which is characterized by mild summers and winters. But frequent rains are expected, a lack of dry season, if you will. Countries like France, Netherlands, Germany, and Austria are some of the popular places in this region. We have been to all 4 countries mentioned here and it is unpredictable, trust us.
• Eastern Europe – Countries in this region are characterized by colder winters. Our Canadian winters can be compared to theirs. Their summer weather is more stable than winter weather (known as continental climate). Comrade countries (pun intended ) include Russia, Hungary, Czech Republic, Romania, etc. Depending on the city, Hungary and Czech Republic can be treated as a part of Central Europe and their weather is similar to western Europe (mild weather with rains throughout – oceanic)
• Northern Europe – They experience a mix of continental and oceanic weather. Parts of the United Kingdom like England is more of an oceanic weather characteristic by rains and moderate temperatures throughout. If you go further north to Ireland and up to Iceland, rains although common, they experience dry months in May-June (unlike the oceanic feature) and their winters are colder (like continental). Iceland is definitely a mix of that and hence quite unpredictable.
• Southern Europe –  Located by the Mediterranean with beaches and warm weather, you guessed it right the countries in southern Europe are different from the other areas of the continent. Their summers are HOT and winters are RAINY/wet – so either you get wet at the beach in summers and other times of the year and during winter, it’s raining! Well, this is the MEXICO of Europe – so if you are heading to Spain, Portugal or Gibraltar, carry swimwear and sunscreen and all things fun-in-the-sun.

A handy packing list is also included at the end of this post.

Post Contents

Ultimate Packing List for Europe

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you click one of them, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.

First things first, let’s sort out how you will be carrying your travel items. In our humble opinion, we recommend taking only carry-on with you – whether it’s a backpack or a stroller. Reasons are simple: most airlines will charge if you are carrying additional luggage.

If you are only flying internationally and do not plan on traveling via regional flights (TAP Portugal or Ryanair and other low-cost airlines) then you are fine. You can carry a checked-in bag as per the carrier’s allowance. But most low-cost carriers won’t allow for that, so definitely factor that in. One carry-on is also ideal if you are traveling via inter-city or inter-regional trains while exploring Europe. More things to carry, more hassle it is.

TRAVEL DOCUMENTS FOR EUROPE

Let’s start with the travel documents. Check your passport to ensure it is current and not expired. Typically European countries will require a passport with a validity of 3 months after the intended date of departure. But to be on the safer side, ensure you have 6 months validity on it. If you require a Schengen visa , get the visa approval process started at least a month prior to your booked trip.

Include any additional IDs like driver’s license, residency cards, or ID card with a photo on it. Organize and carry any additional documents pertaining to travel arrangements like hotel reservations, tours, or any specific addresses and itinerary guide.

If all of those documents are paperless and you intend to save it on your phone, double-check so that you got everything in there. Use an app like TripIt for itinerary planning and list. It is always good to carry a copy of your ticket and hotel reservation, should you phone stop working or you have issues in pulling the documents without wifi. Store all the travel documents and your passport in THIS – RFID protected document organizer. < Click here

Check out Document Organizer from Amazon

Check out Document Organizer – Luxury

TRAVEL INSURANCE FOR EUROPE

Travel Insurance is such an important part of any trip. We always insure our travels. We are pretty optimistic about our travels, but having an insurance plan means we are covered should anything weird come up. Travel insurance covers you against medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and delays provide accommodation and/or refund if you entirely cancel your trip.

Use the link below to find out a travel plan that works for you and your family. This tool will provide you with quotes. We have insured trips for as little as 4 USD a day. So definitely worth having that peace of mind.

Get travel insurance quotes for your trip here

Other than the essential documents (in an organizer), you will be of course carrying clothes, shoes, and toiletries. And you will need the main luggage bag. So let’s talk a little bit about that.

MAIN CARRY ON BACK PACK OR SUITCASE

Invest in a sturdy backpack or a suitcase for your travels to Europe. We enjoy carrying a large size backpack (40-45 L) to store all of our belongings. It will be BEST to be able to travel with just a carry-on – less hassle at the airport or savings on baggage fees.

Pacsafe Venturesafe Anti-theft back pack –  Anti-theft travel backpacks are your BEST friend when you travel especially in Europe. The Pacsafe Venturesafe 45 litre is good size backpack to carry clothes for 10-12 days. This carry-on travel backpack has tons of storage space, in neat compartments to keep your essentials organized. It also comes with cut-proof material, lockable zippers, and an RFID blocking pocket to keep your credit cards and IDs safe. Buy here Pacsafe Venturesafe 45 litre

SwissGear Sion 21″ – Whenever we travel for business, we prefer carrying a carry-on suitcase/trolley. This Swiss Gear Sion 21 inch carry on is very spacious and can hold a lot. It is lightweight and has wheels, making it super easy to carry along at the airport. Being light, anyone (me included) can haul that to the cabin top compartment and bring it down with ease. Click here to buy Swiss Gear Sion 21 inch carry on

We highly recommend that you travel and pack light, it makes the journey even more delightful.

DAY PACK OR PURSE FOR OUTINGS

For your day to day outings, guys can opt for an anti-theft daypack like this one . My pretty ladies choose a versatile anti-theft purse – cross body or shoulder bag – your choice. I wrote a whole post about it, so do take a look – BEST travel handbags out there .

We highly recommend anti-theft bags as they keep your belongings secure and out of sight from pickpockets and other elements. The anti-theft bags come with cut-proof and slash-proof material that hinders someone from getting access to your items.

Most bags also have RFID protection which means that when you carry your credit cards or other documents they are protected against identity theft. Some of the bags also come with guard protection, wherein you can attach the bag or backpack to a pole or chair.

Check out Anti-theft bags and purses from Amazon

The reason we have highlighted these details here is that MOST (not all), most European cities, especially the popular ones have a problem of over-tourism and theft.  The crowded old town or market squares are hot ground for thieves.

The same goes for crowded buses and trains (including overnight trains). You might get away by carrying a casual bag in probably Iceland, which is one of the safest places in Europe. But cities like Paris, Barcelona, Prague, etc you gotta be careful mate!

PACKING CUBES FOR EUROPE

Don’t forget your packing cubes. They come in a long way to keep your clothes organized and compressed. Using a packing cube, you will find that there is more space for your items. Give it a try. We have used a few over the years. Here are a few that we recommend. Currently, we are rocking this one from Eagle and Creek. BUY it here 

EXTRA BAG FOR SOUVENIRS AND SHOPPING

TECHNOLOGY FOR EUROPE

This technology list consists of items that a regular traveler would use. We consider ourselves as one of you – a traveler first (and a blogger). In all honesty, we don’t own heavy bulky cameras that break our neck nor do we carry 4 tripods and 6 different lenses. We love traveling light and smart and our technology list is also a reflection of that.

CELLPHONE AND SIM CARDS FOR EUROPE

So, cell phones are a MUST. We carry our iPhone and Android phones on our travels. We had never used cell services outside. We had relied on wifi for communication and calls and it had worked for us. If you have to carry a SIM card, here are some things to keep in mind.

• Ensure your cellphone or smartphone is unlocked and can be used in Europe. Most of us are tied into a 2-year contract with Verizon or Virgin and they won’t work, unless if you have the phone unlocked.
• If you are in a contract, you can buy a cheaper handset from Amazon only for Europe. Check this unlock cellphone here
• Opt for pre-paid SIM cards in Europe – no contract, no exchange of personal data, and no expensive fees. It is pay peruse.
• You can get a pre-paid card from any retail, news-stands, or grocery store.
• Cost is about $5–10 which includes some prepaid calling credit.
• Buy 20 GB data included SIM Card,
• Or a data plan with 12 GB, pre-paid valid for 30 days you can get lower than this on Amazon at 3 GB. Buy a 3 GB data SIM Card 

CAMERA FOR EUROPE

We use a Sony mirrorless camera and all of the pictures that you see here on the blog or Instagram are taken by our cell phones or mirrorless camera. Here is the mirrorless camera from Sony that we use and recommend .

The battery life on the camera is also good. It lasts us a whole day of photography. We do very little video recording, it is only still photos. For camera protection, use a neoprene cover like this one. They will protect the camera from scratches and marks, without adding the bulkiness.

MULTI-PORT CHARGING CABLES

Charging cables are so so important. Nowadays some hotels in Europe have ditched the plugs and only have a USB outlet to charge electronics. Carry this versatile multi-cable – BUY it here . With a single cable, you can charge the iPhone, Android, Sony camera, and more. This cable has a micro USB and a lightning port. And it is a space saver and one of our favorite travel pieces of all time.

BATTERY BACK UP

Carry a battery back up or a power bank to charge your electronics on the go. Buy your battery power bank here

We highly recommend bringing a high capacity SD card. Ensure it fits the camera slot and is empty so that you can capture memories. Click here to buy a high capacity – 128 GB storage card. 

ADAPTOR AND CONVERTER FOR EUROPE

European plug points are different from North America and Asia. So a universal adaptor is a must-have item if you are a frequent traveler. We recommend this one.

If you are carrying shavers and hair dryers, you will need an electricity converter so that the voltage of your appliance matches the one in Europe. Remember, adaptors can be used for extended periods of time, let’s say charging your camera or phone overnight. A converter is meant for ad-hoc or required use only like while shaving, etc. Purchase your convertor here .

Headphones are a must for in-flight entertainment. And even for sleep. These noise-canceling headphones from Bose are my favorite . It is big, but it does provide awesome sound quality. They are also handy when you take guided tours or audio tours in Europe.

WORK AND ENTERTAINMENT

Here are some items that you may want to consider carrying with you, depending on personal interest. They include –

• Kindle or tablet – Kindle is SUPER handy, you can download thousands of books and the battery capacity is amazing. Get your Kindle here
• Magazines and Books
• Notebook – Check this travel journal here

IN-FLIGHT COMFORT – PACKING LIST FOR EUROPE

Carry these items for in-flight comfort

• Eye mask for sound sleep – Click here to get yours 
• Compression socks for long haul flights – Get compression sock for HIM & HER
• Sleeping/ neck pillow – Get yours here
• Travel Blanket – Buy yours here

READ: Our long haul flight essentials 

WATER BOTTLE FOR EUROPE TRAVEL PACKING LIST

MEDICATIONS PACKING LIST FOR EUROPE

Whenever you travel and wherever you travel, take your medications, if you require any. It is expensive to purchase them abroad and it may or may not match the recommended dosage you are on.

• Carry OTC drugs like – Tylenol for headaches, pain killers , cold and flu, and antacids.
• Add jetlag medicines like this one .
• Include lady products.

COSMETICS PACKING LIST FOR EUROPE

Here are some toiletries and cosmetics that you should carry. But firstly purchase a clear cosmetic or toiletry bag like this one . I have been re-using the same for a few years now and they are super handy when you have to take out your liquids for security checks. So definitely purchase one as a travel investment.

If you prefer a hanging toiletry bag, here is a recommendation – Make up bag is leak-proof and good for men and women!

Buy travel size shampoos and lotions or use these containers to carry your everyday favorite. I have included another clear bag brand here which is super cute and functional. Check it out below and click on the image to find out more.

Items for your cosmetics bag

• Travel size perfume , – 30 ML
• hand sanitizer,
• moisturizer,
• Light make up items like foundation ( NARS foundation is my go to ), eye pencil (waterproof- Rimmel are my ABSOLUTE FAV ), 2-3 lipsticks
• Sunscreen protection for all seasons.
• Toothpaste and toothbrush,
• facial wipes
• Hair ties and hairbrush

Shop my beauty essentials

• Carry basic jewelry, no expensive watches or earrings, nothing flashy.
• Add a laundry bag and detergent sachet to wash clothes, if traveling for a long term and you are pack light.

WHAT CLOTHES TO PACK FOR EUROPE? PACKING LIST FOR EUROPE

Now the best part what clothes to pack for Europe and how to dress up and what to wear? We have included a seasonal breakdown of packing items below (listicle) as well as some outfit ideas.

When you pack clothes for Europe for spring, stick to basic and neutral colors. They look classy and put together, without screaming, ‘hey! I am a tourist’. No loud graphics or designs. Plain and mono-colors, the better. That is true for ladies tops and men’s t-shirts.

I do recommend carrying dresses, mostly for pictures. But remember the weather on certain days might be colder – so if you don’t like dresses, don’t bother carrying them. If you do like, team them up with tights or carry a trench coat or jacket for cover-up. All kinds of dresses are fine for spring – dressy, long and short dress, flowery, short/long sleeves – no restrictions. Same goes for skirts.

So for tops, both for guys and gals – stick to basic and neutral colors. Nothing to loud or bright. Buy breathable fabric so that you are comfortable in flight or when you are out and about whole day. Lighter clothes also pack well and will dry faster when you wash.

You can wear tops, blouses, skirts, dresses, full length pants, whatever you fancy. Just be mindful of the colors and the graphic. No jerseys either.

Carry a combination of tops, blouses and dresses for all times of the year, all over Europe. For winters, wear thermals underneath your dresses or plaid skirts.

A cardigan is a MUST carry item to Europe in MOST seasons. You can probably skip this in the summer months in southern Europe or the Mediterranean. But between a cardigan or a waterproof (light) jacket, I would recommend carrying one piece in all seasons in Europe.

Click here to BUY my favorite cardigan in black . As always opt for basic and neutral colors like black, beige or white.

Click here to BUY cardigan for MEN

Avoid wearing hoodies and gym wear for your outerwear and swap that for packable and lightweight trench coats and jackets. Invest in a piece that is water proof, is front zippered, and has pockets and in a color that goes with all outfits. Here are few examples

RAINWEAR (all 3 seasons, except winter) – To be honest, you will experience frequent rains in Europe more than anywhere else on earth. Problem is that it is unpredictable and it is NOT heavy rainfall like Indian monsoon, but there is rain. Oceanic climates are most dominant in Europe where both winters and summers are mild and rains are common. So if you are traveling to any region in Europe except for the Southern or Mediterranean, expect the rain spell. So a rain wear is a MUST.

• Trench Coat – Waterproof and light coat. Here is the trench coat I LOVE and recommend 
• Jacket – Waterproof and light jacket for 3 seasons. Here is the jacket I LOVE and recommend 
• Rain Jacket – Here is the jacket we recommend

For Southern Europe, carry a cardigan instead for fall, winter and spring. You can skip this for summer.

WINTERWEAR: 

For countries in the Western and Southern Europe, where winters are moderate, a nice wool coat or a jacket is good option to wear. Remember the winters in southern Europe are wet, so no wool coat there.

• A wool coat will be my first preference, especially in countries of Western Europe like France or Netherlands. Click here to check out and BUY this wool coat from Prada
• For Southern Europe, I will recommend this jacket . It is like a coat, but has a hood and is waterproof (yea! rain rain go away)
• With the same idea as above, here is a wool coat for him from Burberry
• Click here for jackets for him. This is a tri-climate jacket from North Face

If you are visiting countries of Eastern Europe or heading for some winter activities in Northern Europe like Iceland, then opt for a good/warm parka or jacket. Responsibly filled down jacket is a way to go. Good to stick to basic colors, but add that pop of color if you are heading to snowy getaways.

For winter activities, like skiing, hiking and others opt for one of the jackets below (for additional packing items, check below for Winter Packing List. This section only talks about outerwear selection)

• FOR WOMEN: This jacket here is super warm for snow activities . The colors recommended here are bright and warm to add that pop of color to your pictures. Another great winter jacket here
• FOR MEN : Check out this jacket. This is fully insulated, perfect for skiing, and high altitude activities. Take them to Iceland or Switzerland.

For bottoms, leave your shorts behind unless if you are going to the beach. Wear classy skirts or opt for dark wash jeans or linen pants. Dark colors mean they are maintenance-free (if they are wrinkle-free, even better). They also go with all sorts of tops and look great in pictures (slim fitting).

For men, avoid wearing cargo or three-quarter pants. Wear linen trousers if you find the weather to be too hot. Jeans are a great option as well.

COMFORTABLE WALKING SHOES

Europe is SO SO much walking on cobblestone lanes, and you have to carry comfortable shoes to enjoy the market squares, old town and the stunning countryside. When you select your travel shoes, choose neutral colors as well, ensure they have a solid comfortable insole. Cute sneakers and booties work well with dresses, skirts and jeans.

If you are heading to western, northern, and southern regions in the 3 seasons of summer, spring and fall, opt for a waterproof shoe. You can use an insole as well.  Click here to buy an insole for additional comfort. 

• Budget option – Sketchers Go Walking shoe and Dr. Scholl comfortable shoe
• Mid option – Sturdy waterproof hiking/walking shoe, super light Or a boot for winter – check out this one from Ugg
• Luxury – Trendy sneakers, waterproof and boots for fall and winter – click to view the boots and prices
• Budget : Buy Sketchers slip on here
• Mid options : Oboz waterproof shoes, light and comfortable
• Luxury: Walking shoes + waterproof from Nordstorm

PACKING LIST FOR EUROPE IN SPRING

We have included travel packing lists for all 4 seasons. This is ideal for 4 – 7 days worth of travel.

Springtime in Europe is from March to May . The temperature during spring will stay around 5- 12 degrees Celsius for most places. So it is not hot-hot. Countries in the western and northern parts of Europe will experience rainy and gloomy days. 

Read : Visiting Prague in March 

Spring is also considered shoulder season, hence it is a GREAT time to travel. Prepare well and as long as you have a waterproof jacket and shoes, you will be more than fine!

Most of the popular destinations like Paris, London, Munich , Vienna will experience light showers in and out of the day. Waterproof jacket or trench coats are essential for your trip due to unexpected rains. Carry an umbrella or a poncho as well. Keep them in your day pack when you are out and about exploring.

Evenings could be chilly and if you have taking a river cruise like on the Seine or Danube – a cardigan to layer on and a scarf are a MUST.

Iceland in spring is a good time to visit as winter roads clear up and tourists are ready to watch the puffins and drive the ring road. Rains and cold weather are expected during this time.

Western Europe: High 15 C (58 F); Low 3 C (38 F)

Northern Europe: High 10 C (50 F); Low 2 C (35 F)

Eastern Europe: High 13 C (56 F); Low 2 C (35 F)

Western Europe in spring experiences a high of 15 degrees Celsius (58 F) and a low of 3 degrees Celsius (38 F). Amsterdam , Brussels , Luxembourg City, and many places in Germany (like Berlin and Hamburg ) experience moderate weather in winter. Rain and overcast days are common.

Spring in Northern Europe experiences colder temperatures than the rest of the continent. It has a high of 10 degrees Celsius (50 F) and a low of 2 degrees Celsius (35 F). Places include Moscow and others in Russia, Iceland, Oslo (Norway), and Minsk in Belarus . Exceptions include London and Dublin – where the temperatures are more like Western Europe for spring. Reykjavik is colder with a low of 0 degree Celsius.

Eastern Europe experiences similar temperatures like the western side, with a high of 13 degrees Celsius (56 F) and a low of 2 degrees Celsius (35 F). Cities include Budapest, Bucharest, Bratislava, and Prague .

Southern Europe is warmer, with temperatures of high of 19 degrees (67 F) and a low of 7 degrees (44 F). The warmest temperatures are experienced in Lisbon (Portugal) with low of 12 degrees (53 F), followed by Barcelona (Spain) with a low of 7 degree (44 F).

Very rarely would you experience negative temperatures in spring in Europe

• Tops, blouses or T- shirts – 2-3
• Pants (linen trousers or jeans) – 1-2
• Dresses or skirts – 2
• Light cardigan – 1
• Waterproof jacket or trench coat – 1 (lightweight) – Click here to buy my favorite waterproof coat
• Denim or faux leather jacket (for styling, dates or evening) – 1
• Undergarments
• Compression socks (for flight) – Buy compression socks here
• Hiking Socks (while exploring) – Buy your hiking socks here
• Comfortable walking shoes – one pair – Click here to buy yours
• Umbrella or poncho – Buy this windproof umbrella here
• Swim suit (if heading to the Southern part of Europe or planning on going to the Blue Lagoon – Iceland or thermal spas in Budapest)

Exceptions:

Iceland, Norway, Russia or up northern areas

• Thermal layer – one pair.
• Switch up your waterproof jacket for an insulated piece.
• Also include winter essentials like beanie or warm cap, mittens
• Add warm socks and boots

Travel Essentials (as discussed above)

• Travel documents in a travel wallet organizer – Passport, resident cards, ID, hotel and tour reservations, Insurance details – Buy your document organizer here
• Carry on backpack or suitcase – Click here to buy your anti-theft backpack OR suitcase
• Buy Day pack or cute purse
• Purchase packing cubes here
• Medications ( jetlag , pain killers, band aid, other required medications) and lady products
• Cosmetics – Clear pouch with light make up, hand sanitizer, moisturiser, sunscreen, travel size perfume and shampoo, tooth brush and paste. Click here to buy your clear pouch
• Electronics – Cell phone and sim card, camera, tablet or kindle. Buy your charging cables and universal adaptor here
• In-flight comfort  – Compression socks, neck pillow , travel blanket

PACKING LIST FOR EUROPE IN SUMMER

Summer is the best time to be in Europe, weather-wise. Less likelihood of rain or snow. Summer months are from June to August.

Super warm in southern Europe – Greece and Portugal are beautiful during this time. Popular western and central European countries experience patio and sundress season, tons of festivities and concerts happen during summer months. They are super busy months in terms of tourists, so don’t forget your anti theft bags and travel backpacks.

Carry your water bottle, drink water, stay hydrated.

Western Europe: High 29 C (82.5 F); Low 18 C (59 F)

Northern Europe: High 21 C (70 F); Low 11 C (52 F)

Eastern Europe: High 28 C (82 F); Low 14 C (57 F)

Western Europe Summers experience a high of 29 degree Celsius (82.5 F) and low of 18 degree Celsius (59 F). Paris, Vienna, Nice experience the warmest temperatures in the region.

Summer in Northern Europe has a high of 21 degree Celsius (70 F) and a low of 11 degree Celsius (52 F). Cities include Riga, Oslo, Vilnius and Stockholm.

Eastern Europe experiences a high of 28 degree Celsius (82 F) and a low of 14 degree Celsius (57 F). Cities include Budapest, Bucharest, Bratislava and Rostov-on-Don in Russia.

Southern Europe is the warmest in summers, with temperatures soaring to 30 degrees (87 F) and a low of 16 degrees (61 F). The warmest temperatures are experienced in Athens (Greece) and Valletta (Malta) . Lower temperatures are common in Rome (Italy) and Tirana (Albania)

• Waterproof jacket or trench coat – 1 – Click here to buy my favorite waterproof coat
• Denim or faux leather jacket (for evening) – 1
• Scarf  for styling
• Click here to buy walking shoes
• Or check out these cute ballerinas 
• ***Flip flops for the beaches (Mediterranean) – Buy flip flops here
• Umbrella or poncho – Get your windproof umbrella here   or poncho
• Hat – Buy an over sized hat here – for those awesome pictures
• Carry cosmetics and medications as listed above.

PACKING LIST FOR EUROPE IN AUTUMN

Autumn months in Europe are from September to November. The weather and temperature around this time, is similar to spring time – it is a shoulder season so expect less crowds. Rains are again common in western and eastern parts of Europe. With rains and possible chill in the evenings, the temperature definitely cools down.

Rome Italy experiences warm climate for the most part of autumn and it is quite pleasant, but towards the end tail of fall months, it tends to get a bit chilly. Carrying 2 cardigans or a cardigan and V neck sweater is recommended so that you can use them as layering pieces should the temperatures drop too low. For dinners or night out, you can wear a warm sweater (minus the coat) for a classy look. Barcelona Spain and Lisbon Portugal are warm in autumn, a light cardigan is a back up for overnight trains or late night outings. Rains are unlikely. Towards November, the possibility of frequent rains and colder temperature is high. So if you are traveling in November, carry a waterproof insulated jacket or coat.

Paris France  was gloomy all 4 days we were there in September, so a water proof trench coat is a must. Wear it over dresses or dark fitted jeans and tops. Keep a scarf and warm hat or a beret handy for evenings or early mornings.  Amsterdam Netherlands experiences a lot of rain. Thankfully for our two days in Amsterdam we didn’t experience any rain, but it is good to be prepared. You can easily pair long dresses with denim or leather jacket. The temperature is not cold, but rain is a possibility; so a leather jacket can be styled with your outfit to ward off sudden rain splashes. Cardigan is handy, should the temperature drop too low in the evenings or towards the end tail of autumn season.

London England has a similar autumn season much like Paris – so carry waterproof outerwear preferably a trench coat. Add comfortable (and waterproof) booties to rock that sophisticated look.  Iceland and some of the northern countries experience colder temperatures and shorter days as they make way for the winter season. In the northern countries of Europe, you may experience snow as well. So we recommend bringing insulated waterproof jacket.

Western Europe: High   19 C (66 F); Low 11 C (51 F)

Northern Europe: High 17 C (62 F); Low 6 C (42.8 F)

Eastern Europe: High 23 C (73 F); Low 12 C (53 F)

Western Europe in autumn experiences a high of 19 degree Celsius (66 F) and low of 11 degree Celsius (51 F). Amsterdam, Paris, Brussels, Luxembourg City and many places in Germany experience rainy and overcast days in autumn.

Fall in Northern Europe experiences colder temperatures than rest of the continent. It has a high of 17 degree Celsius (62 F) and a low of 6 degree Celsius (42.8 F). Places include Moscow and others in Russia, Iceland, Oslo (Norway) and Minsk in Belarus . Exceptions include London and Dublin – where the temperatures are more like western Europe for fall and is rainy. Reykjavik is colder with a low of 0 degree Celsius (32 F) and almost feels like winter in late October.

Eastern Europe experiences similar temperatures like the western side, with a high of 23 degree Celsius (73 F) and a low of 12 degree Celsius (53 F). Cities include Budapest, Bucharest, and Bratislava experience western Europe like autumn.  Exception is Prague, with a low of 6 degrees – on the colder side of fall season.

Southern Europe is warmer with temperatures of high of 28 degrees (83 F) and a low of 17 degrees (62 F). The warmest temperatures are experienced in Athens (Greece), Lisbon (Portugal) and Barcelona (Spain).

• Waterproof jacket or trench coat – 1 (insulated if traveling to northern countries. Check the temperatures if they below 5 degrees, carry thermals) – Buy a stylish coat with insulation, hood and classy look
• Warm scarf – 1
• Stylish Boots – 1 pair – Buy your stylish booties here
• Umbrella or poncho
• Cosmetics – Clear pouch with light make up, hand sanitizer, moisturiser, sunscreen, travel size perfume and shampoo, toothbrush, and paste. Click here to buy your clear pouch
• Electronics – Cell phone and sim card, camera, tablet, or kindle. Buy your charging cables and universal adaptor here

PACKING LIST FOR EUROPE IN WINTER

Winter months in Europe are from December to February . Northern Europe will be coldest, as compared to the winters in western, eastern, or southern Europe, where the weather is much more tolerable.

Instead of packing TONS of clothing to stay warm, focus on a key piece – OUTERWEAR and layer on. Layering with thermals or long johns is essential to stay warm and enjoy Europe in winter. 

Christmas markets attract a lot of tourists to Europe. Wear a sweater dress, black warm leggings, wool coat, a warm hat and booties to rock the festive season. Not only Christmas celebrations, but there are also many things to do during winters in Paris , Iceland and Switzerland for a great vacation especially those who love to hit ski resorts in Europe. 

Warmest temperature in winter in Europe include places like Seville in Spain , Canary Islands, Corfu, and Athens in Greece. They are beach destinations and will stay warm during winters. Ensure you pack swimwear, flip-flops, beach towels, tote bag for the beach. You can ditch the woolen coats and parka and all the paraphernalia like gloves, warm cap, etc., but do carry a light waterproof jacket.

Read: Best winter destinations to visit in Europe 

Western Europe: High    C 7 (42 F); Low -1 C (30 F)

Northern Europe: High -6 C (20 F); Low -17 C (6 F)

Eastern Europe: High 0 C (32 F); Low -5 C (21 F)

You can expect snow in all 3 regions (N, W, E – northern Europe being the coldest). And warmer weather in Southern Europe and little to no snow.

Western Europe winters are mostly mild. The temperature hovers in single digits, with a high of 7 degree Celsius (42 F) and low of -1 degree Celsius (30 F). Amsterdam, Brussels, Switzerland and many places in Germany (like Berlin and Cologne) experience moderate weather in winter.

Winter in Northern Europe experiences colder temperatures than rest of the continent. It has a high of -6 degree Celsius (20 F) and a low of – 17 degree Celsius (6 F). Places include Moscow and others in Russia, Iceland, and Minsk in Belarus. Exceptions include London and Reykjavik – where the temperatures are more like Western Europe for winters.

Eastern Europe experiences a cooler winter, with temperatures of a high of 0 degree Celsius (32 F) and a low of – 5 degree Celsius (21 F). Cities include Budapest , Bucharest, Bratislava and Prague.

Southern Europe is the warmest in winters, with temperatures of high of 15 degrees (58 F) and a low of 6 degrees (40 F). The warmest temperatures are experienced in Lisbon (Portugal) , Barcelona (Spain), followed by Athens (Greece).

• Tops, blouses or T- shirts – 2
• Thermals or long john – 2
• Fleece jacket – 1
• Pants/ jeans – 1-2
• Sweater Dresses or skirts – 2
• Cardigan – 1
• Waterproof jacket parka or wool coat – 1 (wool coat for general winter wear in Europe. Switch to down fill parka for winter activities) – Buy a warm jacket for winter activities in Europe
• Warm scarves
• Warm Socks – 2-4 pairs
• Hiking Socks (while exploring) – 2 pairs – Buy your hiking socks here
• Winter boots – Buy my favorite winter boots from UGG
• Warm gloves or Mittens – Check out these warm gloves for men, -20 deg
• Torque or beanie
• Earmuffs – Buy yours here
• Neck warmer – Buy yours here
• Swimsuit (if heading to the Southern part of Europe or planning on going to the Blue Lagoon – Iceland or thermal spas in Budapest)

Southern Europe (Spain, Portugal) – Waterproof jacket and boots for Southern Europe – a MUST. Their winters are rainy and wet.

• Buy Day pack or a cute purse
• Medications ( jetlag , pain killers, band-aid, other required medications) and lady products
• Cosmetics – Clear pouch with light makeup, hand sanitizer, moisturizer, sunscreen, travel size perfume and shampoo, toothbrush, and paste. Click here to buy your clear pouch

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES ON OUR TRAVEL BLOG

• Long haul flight essentials
• Getting Schengen Visa for Europe
• Europe Planning Guide 101
• Iceland Travel Tips
• Paris Hotels Guide

Pin: Ultimate Packing List for Europe for all seasons 

Mayuri is the founder & editor of ToSomePlaceNew. An Indian-Canadian globetrotter, she has traveled to over 100 cities and 35+ countries. Mayuri has a graduate degree in History and is an MBA. She loves traveling the world, capturing historical nuances, and discussing that over a cup of coffee with her husband, Salil. She currently resides in Edmonton, Canada, and plots travel plans to Europe, the Americas, and beyond. 

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Ooo this is absolutely perfect! I’m headed there for almost two months! Thanks for the suggestions!

Lots of great staples and seasonal recommendations on here! I feel like you covered all the staples that we always pack for convenience and staying connected. I’ve found that TJ Maxx is a great place to get items for layering for winter travel. I even found my beloved cuddle duds and cheap fleece lined tights there…. both of which do well-ish under the dresses I love to pack. My Ugg boots are the only thing that have kept my feet warm and dry on our winter trips. I got mine on super sale but they are definitely worth the investment! I’m still looking for a good hat and gloves though – the “freezing temperature” rated ones we bought last year were terrible.

What a comprehensive guide! I’ve lived in London most of my life and can definitely take some tips from this 😀

That is a super impressive and helpful guide! Thanks for putting this together 🙂

Thanks Lena. Glad you found this useful!

This article is super impressive as it will save my lot of time thinking what to pack this post will surely help me in making my understand what all is required for the trip as I always end up packing extra things.

Thanks Monica! Have a safe trip!

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The Ultimate Europe Packing List

W hile it is very easy to imagine yourself jetting away to an exotic location, in reality, a stress-free, successful trip needs far more organisation than just a few clicks. Especially in today’s world, where we carry more devices than we can count (not to mention the charger for each of these devices) and where going through security is nothing short of nerve-wracking.

The packing list below reflects the type of traveller that I am: orderly, urban, non-adventurous and stylish, who enjoys visiting metropolises like Paris, New York or Berlin. Nonetheless, I think the list provides a good base for every type of traveller, in the sense that an optimal suitcase is a combination of efficient packing and climate/activity-appropriate clothing. And regardless of where you go, only the latter changes. The list works whether you opt for hiking boots or heels, a sturdy rain jacket or a trendy trench coat.

Let’s see what I don’t leave home without whenever I leave for a new destination.

The Key to an Effective Europe Packing List: The Right Suitcase

There’s no point in trying to be organised if all you’re leaving with is a distressed duffel bag, right? As in anything, having the right tools is a guaranteed recipe for success and this is why I’m highly partial to my Heys luggage . Made of polycarbonate composite, each of the suitcases are ultra-light – the biggest one weighs just 10.8 lbs – and are also expandable if you plan on doing a little shopping at destination.

I also like that my fashionable, ombré Heys luggage has a built in TSA Lock for maximum security, which means anyone that’s not technically supposed to have a peek inside my suitcase won’t. The 360° spinner wheels and the 5-year warranty are also musts, as is the hard shell that ensures my precious possessions won’t be damaged or destroyed in transit.

Europe Packing List: Be Organised

Packing cubes

The best thing since fire. Literally. I am a very neat, orderly person and I like having each of my clothing categories (underwear, sweaters, dresses, tank tops, etc.) sorted in the same place. No need to go through the entire suitcase –and unfold everything in the process– for that one item of clothing that I so desperately need.

Laundry Travel Bag

Essential, especially when travelling in the humid climates of Southern Europe in the summer.

Luggage scale

To avoid pesky (not to mention costly!) surprises at the airport (especially if you fly one of the Europe budget airlines !)

TSA-approved quart-size toiletry pouch

To make the security check process much smoother, and therefore that much more enjoyable.

Cross-body handbag

Last but not least, a leather, medium-sized, cross-body handbag in lieu of a day-time backpack. It’s stylish enough to go incognito in most European cities and sturdy enough to resist pickpocketing and slashing.

I always opt for bags than can fit my lens, my survival kit (see below), a small water bottle, my sunglasses and my wallet. I’m currently using this Matt & Nat bag , a Montreal-based company.

Europe Packing List: Clothing

I won’t go and list every single item that I usually pack when I jet off to Europe but the operative word, here, is practicality. Europe is known for its forward-thinking, sophisticated fashion and while not all fabrics travel well (satin and linen come to mind, hello wrinkles), do keep in mind that neutrality is your best friend when it comes to a polyvalent style.

Mix and match clothes, so that each item can be worn at different times with different pieces of clothing for maximum versatility. Here are a few items that, I think, are indispensable for urban Europe getaways:

• One or two pairs of skinny jeans (preferably a blue denim hue and a black one)
• Trendy sneakers and black boots
• One or two pairs of black tights
• Sweater dresses (can be worn with the jeans or the tights) and one fancier dress
• Two or three sweaters in varying length and colours
• Two or three light short and long t-shirts in varying patterns or colours

Europe Packing List: Toiletries

As for toiletries, travel sizes are a girl’s best friend (I have neutral, non-branded bottles that I simply refill with my own products every time I leave). Not only are they easier to get through security, they are also lighter and use up much fewer space.

With that being said, one of the most important lessons I’ve learned during my decade of travel is that whatever you do, DON’T skimp on facial care. Skin is a sensitive organ and can react very strongly to change, be it sunlight, water or air pollution. Below is a list of products I’ve diligently been using for almost the entire duration of my life as a travel writer.

• Wash bag for semi-to-high-maintenance girls like myself. Because a girl needs to have her make-up, hair products, toothbrush and deodorant at the ready.
• Cleansing wipes , either to remove makeup at night or to freshen up during the flight
• Moisturiser with 24-hour SPF
• Basic makeup kit ( foundation , concealer , setting powder , blush / bronzer , blush and powder brush , eye pencil , mascara , lipstick )
• Basic mani-pedi kit ( clipper + file , base + top coat , nail polish  – my favourite shade right now is a slightly mauve antique pink –  remover wipes )
• Paraben-free body wash, shampoo and conditioner (because, frankly, unless you’re staying at really high-end hotels complimentary toiletries are generally dehydrating, full of chemicals, and just all-around subpar)
• Dry shampoo
• Lint roller

Europe Packing List: Tech Stuff and Photography

Mirrorless camera for travel

I barely ever leave home without my beloved camera, the Olympus OM-D-EM10 . My back could no longer stand the bulk and weight of carrying my reflex camera and lenses around all day.

I wanted something light, powerful, simple to use, with changeable lenses and within my price range; in other words, I wanted the unicorn of travel photography. I also carry a 25mm lens and a 9-18 wide-angle lens.

I use a Professional 32go SD card : Never underestimate how much space you need on an SD card! This Lexar cards captures high-quality images and extended lengths of stunning 1080p full-HD and feature high-speed file transfer from card to computer.

iPhone battery case

Because I’m such an avid Instagrammer, the iPhone battery case is kind of like my best friend. Not only do I use my iPhone for photos, I also use it for maps, staying in touch, travel apps and so many other things, I simply cannot fathom the thought of not being able to use it. Definitely one of my best purchases.

Grid-it Organizer

So every wire, charger and device stay in place when I’m on the go.

Noise-Canceling Headphones

Plane + wailing children. You do the math.

MacBook Air for travel

My 13.3 inch Apple MacBook Air , b ecause it’s the lightest computer there is on the market and allows me to do my regular work even when I’m thousands of miles away from home. Definitely more of an investment than just a steep expense, especially since it means I don’t have to carry or buy a tablet.

Europe Packing List: Miscellaneous

• My Everyman Map guides : favourite city guides (aside from my own , of course); I love their minimalist allure and their foldable maps, which are useful if I travel without a data plan or can’t find Wi-Fi.
• A scarf , that can be used to cover shoulders when visiting sensible buildings, as a pillow, as a tablecloth or a blanket. Or, you know, as an actual scarf when it’s chilly out.
• Hand sanitizer
• Dramamine (non-drowsy motion sickness medicine)
• Blister cushions
• Non-drowsy anti-histamine pills
• Dental floss

Marie-Eve is a native Montrealer trying to balance a deep love for her hometown and an unquenchable thirst for travel and discovery. She has been to more than 36 countries, lived abroad in both France and the U.K., and is always on the lookout for authentic experiences wherever she travels -- especially if it involves wine.

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Your Complete Europe Travel Checklist (+ Printable Packing List!)

By Lisa Wells January 12, 2020 Updated: December 5, 2023 · This post may contain affiliate links · Leave a Comment

Not sure what to pack for your upcoming trip to Europe? Here’s an easy-to-follow Europe travel checklist that you can use to pack for your upcoming European vacation. You’ll also find tips for planning your Europe travel outfits using a capsule wardrobe and a printable packing list.

Europe is an incredible continent for travel. Whether you're embarking on a European cruise or setting out to explore on land, there's lots to see and do, and oh-so-much history to explore. 

But there's also a lot to know about traveling in Europe, especially if this is your first time. And it's not at all like a US beach vacation or traveling to the Caribbean , where you're much more likely to spend your time shuttling between resort life and planned excursions. From the correct walking shoes to the right size carry-on for European airlines to the perils of dragging a heavy suitcase across those quaint cobblestone roads. Understanding what and how to pack for your European travels can make the difference between an enjoyable vacation and one that's frustrating.

With those frustrating yet avoidable situations in mind, here’s an easy-to-follow checklist that you can use to pack for your next trip to Europe. You’ll also find tips for planning your travel outfits and a printable Europe travel packing list.

Here’s a table of contents for what you’ll find below:

• Luggage & Packing Accessories
• European Capsule Wardrobe
• Toiletries & Makeup Essentials

Must-Have Travel Gadgets

Important travel documents.

• Other Handy Travel Items

Luggage, Travel Containers & Accessories

Just as your European outfit choices might look a little different when compared to domestic or beach travel, so too will your luggage and travel container choices. 

Luggage Fit for European Vacations

If you're traveling carry-on only to Europe, you will want to check carry-on luggage size and weight restrictions for each airline and/or land transportation method you'll be traveling.

Unlike domestic flights in the United States and Canada, European airline carry-on restrictions differ. And they're often much smaller than our domestic airlines. Planning for these restrictions will help you avoid surprise penalty fees from having your luggage checked at the gate.

Another thing to keep in mind when choosing your luggage is the ease of use. Particularly along cobblestone roads. With the incredible European history also comes older road infrastructure. We're talking things like cobblestone roads, buildings without elevators and narrow staircases.

To make getting around easier, the luggage that you travel with should take this into account. Traveling in a backpack carry-on (like this one ) can make it easier to get around, especially if you'll be moving frequently between destinations.

If carry-on only travel is out of the question, consider a lightweight hard-shelled suitcase with four sturdy wheels (like this one ). This will help with mobility across cobblestone roads and should help you avoid overweight charges if you indulge in a little shopping. 

Travel Containers That Make Packing Easy

From a carry-on friendly liquid bag to travel packing cubes , clever travel containers can help make packing for your European vacation much easier.

Ensuring that your carry-on liquids are 3-1-1 compliant  is especially important if you're traveling carry-on only, but this is something to pay attention to even if you're checking luggage. I've seen too many fellow travelers have their expensive, high-end toiletries confiscated at security! 

I like to decant my products into smaller travel-friendly containers. I like these for cosmetics and these for liquid shampoo, conditioner and body wash. 

Create a Capsule Wardrobe for Europe

Planning a capsule wardrobe for European travel can pose an interesting challenge if you're covering a lot of ground while you're away. Unlike planning a capsule wardrobe for a beach vacation , you're more likely to see a wide range of weather across Europe. For example, summer weather in Norway is different compared to the summer weather you'll encounter in Italy.

With this in mind, you'll want to gather weather information about each of the locations you'll be visiting. You'll also want to think a bit about the activities you'll be doing while you're away and whether you have access to laundry facilities. This will help you pack appropriately and help you feel more prepared.

Planning the Core of Your European Capsule Wardrobe

As a general guideline, vacations spanning one to two weeks will require a capsule wardrobe that includes about 10 to 12 core pieces of clothing. With a capsule wardrobe of this size, assuming that all items go together, you would have at least 18 different outfits to choose from during your time away. 

Weather can range widely in Europe, so a summer capsule wardrobe will look different when compared to a winter capsule wardrobe. 

For a summer climate, my European capsule wardrobe would include:

• Short-sleeve tops x 4
• Long-sleeve top x 1
• Dresses x 2
• Bottoms (mix of pants and skirts) x 3
• Lightweight jacket x 1

For a winter climate, my European capsule wardrobe would include:

• Long sleeve tops / lightweight knits x 4
• Thin base layer (long-sleeve top + leggings) x 1
• Wool coat x 1

And if you're traveling through a variety of climates, you might consider a capsule wardrobe that includes:

• Short-sleeve tops x 3
• Long-sleeve top x 3
• Mid-weight jacket x 1

Extra pieces, depending on your vacation activities, might also include:

• Scarf / pashmina x 1
• Versatile bathing suit x 1–I love traveling with this one
• Hat x 1– this one is my favorite travel hat   

And no matter the weather, you'll want to plan your shoes properly. Heels (even low ones) are not overly practical because of the cobblestone roads you're likely to encounter. Your best bet is to opt for a chic little loafer with lots of support (I love these ones from Arcopedico). Versatile and practical, keeping your outfit looking stylish while also protecting your feet and ankles from uneven roads and walkways.

Tips for a Versatile European Capsule Wardrobe

Here are my top three tips for planning a European capsule wardrobe with maximum versatility in mind:

• Choose a cohesive color story. The most versatile capsule wardrobes revolve around one accent color and two supporting neutrals. If you're feeling stuck, try pulling your color story from a patterned scarf. I usually travel with one and love using it as the inspiration for my capsule's color story.
• Make sure each piece goes with all the other pieces.  The only reason to pack a single-use item of clothing is for a specific activity or event you need that item for, like a wedding. 
• Pack multi-use items. For example, use the scarf you wore on the plane as a pashmina for visiting cathedrals and a cover-up if you spend an afternoon beachside.

Toiletries & Makeup Bag

I don't know about you, but I like to keep my toiletry bag light. My motto for vacation toiletries and makeup is: keep it simple. You'll quickly notice that Europeans typically wear less makeup, so the less-is-more approach will probably help you feel more at home among the locals. Plus, who wants to bother lugging around lots of makeup and beauty products on vacation!? 

Here are the must-haves in a keep-it-simple toiletries and makeup bag:

• Eyebrow pencil–defined brows go a long way in pulling together a minimal makeup look!   
• Powder blush
• Tinted moisturizer–with SPF 20 to provide a little extra protection
• Sheer lipstick that works as lip balm (I keep Twig on me at all times)
• Remover wipes for low-effort makeup removal
• Purifying shampoo–perfect for keeping locks feeling clean and hydrated while on the road 
• Body moisturizer
• Face moisturizer
• Sunscreen stick
• Deodorant (the charcoal one is my favorite–use code LISA for 10% off)
• Bar soaps & shampoos –great if you travel carry-on only and want to save space in your 3-1-1 liquids bag   

Simple, right? No need to pack a huge makeup and toiletries kit. Instead, figure out your own version of a five minute face and trust that that's all you need to look your best on the road.

There are a few travel gadgets that I don't leave home without because they make life on vacation easier, more enjoyable and more fun!

Here are the tech items you should pack on your European vacation:

• Phone & phone charger
• DSLR , camera charger, extra battery & memory card if you don't want to rely on your phone cam
• Kindle reader –perfect for long flights and train rides
• Travel adapter  

Proper packing for your upcoming travels goes beyond your wardrobe and travel gear. It's best to prepare for the unexpected–nobody likes to think about the things that could go wrong on a vacation, but the truth is you (or your travel buddies) could get sick or hurt.

Begin by reviewing travel advisories and vaccine and visa requirements for all countries you'll be visiting well before your departure date–at least 14 days. This will give you time to take care of any steps you may need to take to make sure your travel plans proceed as planned.

These are the documents you shouldn't leave home without:

• Passport–aim for six-months validity whenever you're traveling abroad
• Immunization records
• Travel insurance
• Foreign currency–in this case, euros and possibly pounds if you'll be stopping in the UK
• Boarding pass–I save space by using a digital wallet
• Travel itinerary–this also goes in my digital wallet (unless I’m taking a multi-country trip and think I may need to supply it at customs)
• Credit cards
• Driver's license or some other alternative form of personal ID
• Emergency contact info

I know many travelers that travel with a back-up copy of all the above-mentioned travel documents in a hard-copy format, but I prefer to travel with them stored on a  USB thumb drive . I usually tuck it into my first-aid kit and keep it separate from originals (just in case).

Other Handy Travel Items To Pack

And while none of these products are essential for European vacations, they make life a little easier while you're on the road.

• Waterproof bag –great if you'll be catching some beach time in the Mediterranean   
• Microfiber towel –handy if you'll be spending time by a beach or pool   
• Reusable shopping bag –for impromptu shopping trips    
• RFID travel wallet –perfect for keeping all your travel documents organized    
• Collapsible water bottle –water fountains are far and few between in Europe    

Grab Your Travel Checklist & Get Packing!

Now that you know what to pack for your European adventure, it's time to put this knowledge into action! Grab your Europe travel checklist and get started with your packing!

Looking for other travel packing tips? Check these out:

• How to pack for a beach vacation in just a carry-on
• What you need to pack for a cruise vacation
• The essential beach gear you need for a relaxing day at the beach

More Coastal Travel

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The Ultimate Packing List for Europe: What to Pack for Your Trip

Planning a trip to Europe and wondering what to pack? Don’t miss this complete packing list for Europe – with key essentials and seasonal additions to help you plan your trip. 

Packing for Europe is a tough call and getting your packing right is going to depend on a lot of different factors. 

How long are you going for? Are you travelling with checked luggage or carry on only? Which season are you going in? 

That’s a lot of questions right there – I can already feel you starting to give in to the temptation to shove a whole load of stuff in and hope for the best. 

Step away from the luggage. There’s no need to panic, or to pack everything – making your case so heavy that you can barely pick it up. 

This Europe packing list will walk you though:

• What to pack for Europe 
• Additional things to consider when packing for Europe in the Spring/ Summer / Fall and Winter 
• Practical tips to help you ensure you don’t pack too much

In short – everything you need to pack efficiently, conveniently and stylishly for your Europe trip.

What to Pack for Europe

Packing essentials for Europe at any time of the year.

You might think that starting a packing list talking about luggage is a bit of a hot take, but hear me out. Luggage can make or break a trip, so you’ll want to choose carefully. Convenience and durability are two big factors you need to consider before you set off.

So what luggage should you use? I’ll do a quick breeze through the pros and cons of the main options below.

Rolling Suitcase

A rolling suitcase is super convenient to roll around places like the airport, and put way less strain on your back.

The downside of rolling suitcases for Europe is that historic cobbled streets just weren’t made for this modern invention. Anyone who has undergone the mortifying shame of your suitcase clack clack clacking along a street for what feels like eternity knows what I’m talking about.

That said, I tend to travel with rolling suitcases these days because they’re so easy to get around with. Pick a hard-shell case to protect your belongings.

Recommended

• Away Carry On (read my full review here)
• Level8 Textured Carry On ( read my full review here)

Convertible Backpack

I love the convenience of a backpack but really can’t go past the style factor of a nice rolling case. The solution? A convertible backpack.

With these, you can wear them as a backpack or change it up to roll like a suitcase. Options are always good when travelling and I love a smart design like this.

Recommended 

• Osprey Transporter  
• Eastpak Tranverz  

Packing Cubes

I’m not sure how I didn’t discover packing cubes way earlier. I can only imagine how many packing-related frustrations could have been avoided if I had.

Packing cubes are lightweight and keep your suitcase in Marie Kondo organised perfection. You’ll be able to find everything you need in a jiffy, and it helps you to fit more into your suitcase.

Recommended 

• AmazonBasics Packing Cubes 

A good daypack is definitely a must on your Europe trip packing list. This is especially the case if you’re planning on doing any hikes.

A good daypack is light, with straps that are comfortable and distribute weight evenly. You’ll also want to have a peek inside to make sure it’s keeping everything well organised.

• Herschel Retreat Backpack 
• Osprey Daylite

A handbag is definitely on my list of things to pack for Europe. A great bag is the perfect addition to any outfit, and it keeps things stylish.

Consider security when it comes to handbags. Pickpocketing is an issue, especially in large cities, so you’ll want something that can be secured.

Reusable Canvas Bag

Plastic shopping bags are so 2015. Around the world, more and more countries are banning single-useplastic. 

Even where they’re not banned, they can still wreak havoc on the local environment. Do your bit and bring along a canvas bag instead.

I know, I know – this is the part of any travel packing list for Europe that causes the most headaches. You want to look your stylish best, without bringing your entire wardrobe.

Firstly, take a look at the general weather trends so you know what kind of conditions you’ll be dealing with. Then set about putting together a wardrobe.

I’m a big fan of capsule wardrobes, where a small number of pieces go together in many different combinations. It’s a quick and easy way to look super stylish on the road.

I recommend bringing a handful of tops in fairly neutral colours and patterns. While I’m a big fan of loud clothing, you don’t want to waste too much time trying to find things that match.

You’ll also want to bring a selection of short and long sleeves, especially if you’re travelling in spring or fall.

Skirts 

Ahhhh, what says “stylish Europtrip” more than a beautiful, billowy skirt. They’re comfy, stylish and super versatile as well.

I love a maxi or midi skirt, however depending on your style and the length of your trip, you might like to throw a mini in as well.

Dresses 

Like skirts, pretty dresses are a staple of pretty much every packing list for Europe in summer. They’re so easy to wear and look gorgeous as well.

I like to bring at least one casual dress, but it’s ideal if you also bring something that’s easily dressed up or down. 

Trousers and Pants

Trousers and travel pants are definitely a must for your travel list for Europe. Jeans are the perfect addition to any casual outfit, while loose trousers are also ideal for hiking or more active pursuits.

Outerwear is a definite must in Europe. Even if you’re considering heading to Europe in spring or summer, you’ll still want to add in a jacket or two in case of any chilly days.

Be sun smart, kids! Not only are hats important to stop yourself getting burnt (no one wants to look like a lobster in their holiday snaps) but they are also super stylish.

My pick is a wide-brimmed hat. They get maximum marks in the style and the practical departments.

Let’s be honest, hitting the beach or hotel pool is pretty much non-negotiable for a fabulous summer trip. So you won’t want to forget your swimwear.

What you choose is pretty much up to you and your style. Just make sure you’d tried it on beforehand and that it makes you feel fab.

So travel socks are not the sexiest thing you need when travelling to Europe, but they are important. Travel socks can help you stave off baddies like DVT or blisters, while also keeping you warm and comfy.

They’re especially important if you’re planning on doing any hiking or a lot of walking (which is pretty likely). 

Don’t underestimate the importance of some comfy undies for your trip.

I recommend bringing plenty, as they don’t take up much room and you don’t want to be doing your washing every couple of days. There’s way more fun things to do than that.

Footwear can be a difficult one when considering what to pack when travelling to Europe. They’re a definite must, but they can take up a lot of room – so choose wisely.

Comfortable Travel Shoes / Trainers

Nothing ruins a day exploring an amazing city quicker than getting a blister. That’s why I never leave London without a pair of comfy travel shoes or trainers in my bag.

I’m a huge fan of Tropicfeel’s Geyser trainers for cooler months – they’re great for walking around the city but are great hiking trainers for hikes where you don’t need much ankle support. I use the brand’s Canyon trainers during the warmer months.

• Tropicfeel Geyser
• Tropicfeel Canyon
• Allbirds Tree Runners

The Full Lowdown on Tropicfeel’s Geyser Trainers

Stylish Travel Shoes 

Just as important as a comfy option is a pair that make you feel fabulous as soon as you put them on. Whether it’s a pair of gorgeous boots or maybe your fave heels (that you can walk in easily), you can consider adding in a pretty option.

There’s no point in me lying, I do not bring pretty shoes when I travel anymore, I just think they take up too much space for very little use, but I tend to err on the scruffy side of things, so you can make your own decision.

Hiking Boots / Sandals 

If you’re planning on hiking then some proper boots or sandals are a must. They are comfy and help protect you from slipping and hurting yourself. 

Boots are a classic option, but if you’re travelling in summer you might prefer to opt for some lighter hiking sandals.

Merrell Women’s Hiking Boots: Comfortable high rise hiking boots with good ankle support and grip for keeping you safe on those adventures

Useful Items  

There are a whole raft of items that should make it onto the best packing list for Europe, but often don’t. 

We’ve all grumbled as we’ve paid an extortionate amount for something at the airport – so save money and buy it ahead of time if you think you’ll need it.

Travel Towel 

A must-have if you’re camping or staying in hostels where they’re not provided, but super helpful for any trip – particularly if you plan on swinging by a beach or two. They’re lightweight, small and can really help you out if you’re stuck without.

Dock & Bay Sandproof Towel: A cute, bright and beachy sand-proof towel. It folds into a small bag making it perfect for summer travels

Earplugs and Eye Mask 

You’ll be so glad you brought these if there’s a crying baby on your flight or you find your hotel is perched above a nightclub. Plus they take up hardly any room.

Torch 

If you’re camping or hiking then a torch is definitely a travel necessity for Europe. You don’t want to get caught out trying to find the bathroom with only your phone’s flash – so bring a small but powerful torch instead.

Refillable Water Bottle 

Like plastic shopping bags, plastic water bottles are a big environmental no-no. Plus, it gets expensive to keep buying single-use water. 

Instead, bring a decent refillable water bottle – a filtered one is ideal if you’re travelling to places where the tap water isn’t safe to drink.

Money Belt 

The only person who should be spending your money in Europe is YOU. Make sure no dodgy pickpockets get their hands on it by using a discrete money belt. 

Worn under your clothes, it’s the perfect place to store your valuables.

Gadgets + Electronics 

Who doesn’t love a good gadget while travelling? There are heaps that can make your life way easier – but you’ll also want to make sure you’re going to use them enough to make it worth the space they take up.

While some people say a smartphone is enough to take photos for your Euro trip, I’ve got to disagree. Nothing compares to a good quality camera, which will allow you to capture your amazing moments with a little more creativity.

Memory Cards

No packing checklist for travelling to Europe would be complete without some memory cards for your camera. I recommend bringing a few in a durable case, so you don’t need to delete them from the card. 

Spare Batteries 

We’ve all experienced the ultimate travel disaster that is realising our battery is flat in front of a beautiful attraction. Avoid this by bringing spare batteries and keeping them charged (but remember you can’t bring them in your hand luggage).

Travel Adapter 

I can’t tell you how many times I’ve forgotten this and ended up paying double at the airport. Avoid this and make sure you bring along your universal travel adaptor – a good quality one will last you for years.

All in one travel adapter

External Power Pack

Avoid the disaster that is your phone going flat at an unexpected moment with an external power pack that can give your phone or other devices a boost. It’s especially ideal for long bus or train rides, hiking or overnight camping.

Anker Power Pack 

Toiletries 

While you can purchase anything you’ve forgotten, there are lots of toiletries to pack for Europe. 

This includes;  shampoo / dry shampoo, conditioner, toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, lip balm with sunscreen moisturiser and for the ladies, don’t forget your feminine hygiene supplies. 

If you take any prescription medication, you’ll definitely want to bring them to Europe as it is difficult (and not always possible) to get refills.

I also recommend bringing a small medical kit with essentials like aspirin and plasters. Although most of these are available in Europe, it’s much easier to bring them yourself rather than 

Avoid looking like a lobster while travelling in Europe, and protect your skin from long term damage. Sunscreen is a definite must for what to bring to Europe, and I recommend going for at least 50+ SPF for fair skin, 30+ for darker skin.

Travel Essentials for Europe 

The ultimate packing list for Europe would not be complete without including all the absolute essentials. Without these items, you really aren’t getting far on your trip.

Passport / Visas 

You aren’t even leaving the airport with these ones, so make sure you’ve got these sorted well before you fly. 

While bringing your passport is pretty obvious, it’s a common travel mistake not to check the visa requirements before you travel. Don’t get caught out.

Travel Insurance 

None of us want to think about anything going wrong on holiday, and hopefully it won’t. However, you’ll get lots of peace of mind knowing you’re covered in the event of lost luggage, cancellations or accident/illness. Insurance is a definite must for travel to Europe.

Cash / Credit Cards 

Sadly, travel is not free so cash and cards are a must. 

It’s worth looking into the best travel cards, especially if you are travelling for a few weeks. Ideally, bring more than one and keep them separate, for security reasons. Another security tip is to alert your bank that you’ll be travelling.

While card / Apple/ Google pay is widely accepted in Europe, I still recommend bringing some cash just in case. The cheapest way to do this is to get it out of the ATM once you arrive (away from the airport). 

You might also like to bring a little bit that you’ve swapped at home – but keep in mind this is an expensive way to do it.

Tickets and Reservations 

It’s common nowadays to just keep these on your phone, but I’ve definitely been caught out without battery or wifi. For that reason, I recommend bringing hard copies of important tickets and reservations just in case.

Emergency Contacts + Addresses 

Like with travel insurance, chances are these will remain in your bag untouched. But it’s still a good idea to keep some information about who to contact in an emergency, just in case.

Copies of Important Documents to Keep Separate from Wallet 

One of my most important packing tips for a Europe trip is to keep your most important documents separate from your wallet. This includes documents like your passport as well as, ideally, a backup credit card.

This way, even if your wallet gets swiped, you aren’t totally stuck and helpless.

Guide Book 

What? A travel blogger recommending an old school guidebook? 

Yep, I totally love a good guidebook. They give you a fab overview of a new place, and can be used even if you’ve got no ‘net. Of course, then you should check out my travel blog for more info.

What to Pack for Europe in the Summer 

Are you wondering what to pack when going to Europe in summer? Overall, things are usually pretty warm, but you’ll still want to bring some options for the odd cool day.

Quick Dry Beach Towel 

I love this invention. Gone are the days of lugging around a damp beach towel in your suitcase for days on end. 

Sunglasses  

Any practical or stylish packing list for Europe in summer should include a pair of sunglasses. They’re important for your eye health (not to sound like your Mum or anything), but they also look great with your outfit too. 

The perfect addition to any summer wardrobe in Europe is a good pair of shorts. They’ll keep you cool and looking great – I’m especially a fan of the classic that is a pair of denim cut-offs.

What to Pack for Europe in Spring and Autumn / Fall 

Layers .

If you’re considering a packing list for Europe in fall or spring, you’ll want to keep in mind the weather can be unpredictable. A great way to get around this is to pack layers like a lightweight jumper, which you can add or remove as necessary.

Rainproof Jacket 

Rain is kind of a given in spring and fall in Europe, so pack accordingly. Like a good Brit, a little rain will never scare me off sightseeing – and a good rainproof jacket certainly helps. 

A good one is light and folds up easily, meaning it won’t take up much room in your luggage.

As above, a little rain is no match for a sturdy umbrella. Make sure that rain doesn’t put a dampener (haha) on your plans by bringing a good brolly.

What to Pack for Europe in Winter

Thick Winter Jacket / Coat  

Europe in winter is beautiful, romantic, and cold. Really cold. It’s therefore a must to bring a thick winter jacket or coat, so you’ll be warm (and stylish) even when it’s frosty outside.

I read once that you lose most of your body heat through your head… so make sure to put a cosy hat on it. It will keep you toasty warm, and they look super cute as well. Bonus points if it covers your ears from the chill.

Another must for your packing list for Europe in winter is a good scarf. I absolutely love scarves – not only do they do a great job in keeping you warm, but they also add some immediate charm and interest to your outfit. 

A colourful one is a great way to instantly add some pizzazz to your clothes.

Gloves  

A good pair of gloves is a must for any men’s or women’s packing list for Europe in winter. Don’t underestimate how much warmer they’ll keep you – you don’t want your fingers going all numb and tingly while wandering around a city. Gloves are a definite must.

Packing Tips for Your Europe Trip

• Versatility is key when choosing what to pack when going to Europe. I love clothes that all wear well together, as well as products with multiple uses.
• Organisation is really key to fitting everything in your suitcase and being able to access it easily. Avoid the nightmare that is having to throw everything out onto the floor, by packing in a sensible way.
• Although it’s tempting to leave packing to the last possible moment, I recommend doing it a day or two before you leave so that you’ll have time to realise if you’ve left anything off your Europe trip packing checklist.

Read More Europe Guides

• The Ultimate Europe Bucket List  
• The Insider’s Guide to Travelling Europe
• The Best Places to Visit in Europe
• Stunning City Breaks in Europe

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I’m Julianna Barnaby - a professional travel writer and geek extraordinaire. I started The Discoveries Of to help you to discover the best of new destinations from around the world.

Discovering new places is a thrill - whether it’s close to home, a new country or continent, I write to help you explore more and explore differently.

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The Ultimate Europe Summer Packing List

Caroline Morse Teel

Caroline Morse Teel is the Managing Editor for SmarterTravel Media. Follow her adventures around the world on Instagram @TravelWithCaroline.

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Overpacking is the quickest way to start your European trip off on the wrong foot. Charming cobblestone streets, boutique hotels without elevators, and packed public transportation mean you don’t want to be hauling around an oversized suitcase. 

A streamlined European packing list is essential—you want to look good in all your photos in front of famous sites, blend in with local fashion, and be comfortable for miles of walking every day. 

We’ve put together the ultimate European summer packing list for smarter travelers to follow—you’ll be comfortable, stylish, and mobile (without that giant checked bag).

Summer weather in Europe can be fickle, so packing a good pair of jeans is always smart in case the temperatures drop in the evening. Mott & Bow’s Slim Boyfriend Jeans are made from a soft, lightweight twill denim fabric that’s lighter and more comfortable than regular denim. 

The white jeans help keep your outfit looking summery, and by some miracle, Mott & Bow’s jeans aren’t see-through like most white pants. 

Light Shirt/Scarf

If you’re visiting any religious/historical sites in Europe, you may be asked to cover your shoulders and knees out of respect. Keep a lightweight scarf with you so you can comply on an impromptu visit without overheating during the rest of the day.

The Ultimate Packing Checklist

Dresses are the most versatile piece of clothing you can pack for your European trip, as they can be worn with sneakers during the day or made fancier at night with heels. For hot summers, you can’t beat linen— Quince’s 100 percent European Linen Button Front Dress was practically designed for European trips.

Made from breathable and heat-regulating linen, the dress will keep you cool. The removable belt and functional buttons give you multiple looks with just one piece of clothing and best of all, the dress features pockets. 

Cozy Earth’s Coastal Comfort Mock Neck Short Sleeve Button Down is the perfect mix of casual and pulled-together. Made from a blend of tencel and linen, this top is ultra-breathable and feels significantly cooler than cotton. 

The fabric uses an enhanced weave that helps prevent pilling, so this shirt will still look brand-new after many trips.

Since they take up such minimal space, you’ll never regret packing a swimsuit . There are so many beaches, lakes, and even hotel pools to explore in Europe, you won’t want to miss any opportunity for a dip. 

If you tend to burn easily, and don’t want to be bothered frequently getting out of the water to reapply, the Eddie Bauer Long-Sleeve One Piece Swimsuit swimsuit is a great option—the floral print and zipper keep it cute, while the extra coverage gives you plenty of sun protection. 

The Best Swimsuits for Any Type of Vacation

Lightweight Pants

A lightweight pair of pants can protect you from the sun, keep you covered for historical church visits, and help you look like a local (if you choose the right ones). Ditch the heavy denim in favor of something with a bit more stretch, like Mott & Bow’s Twill Chinos

These pants have just the right of flexibility but are structured enough that they won’t get baggy halfway through your trip. The khaki color is perfect for summer, and can be dressed up or down depending on your plans for the day. 

Accessories

Crossbody Purse

The perfect purse for Europe can be worn crossbody style (which makes it harder to steal), goes with any outfit, is versatile, and is big enough to hold the essentials (but not too large, since you’ll be carrying it all day).

Quince’s Italian Leather Quilted Wallet Crossbody ticks all the boxes. Made from soft Italian leather, the purse will be right at home in Europe, and the quilted design works well from day to night. The bag can be worn as a crossbody, or you can remove the chain to use it as a clutch. 

Coin purses have fallen out of fashion in the US, but they can come in handy in Europe, where lower denominations of currency are in coins instead of bills. Don’t end up with a heavy stash of coins buried in your bag—keep your change organized and accessible in a zippered pouch . 

The 24 Best RFID Wallets to Protect You Identity

Keep the sun off of your face and your outfit looking stylish with a sun hat. These packable options from Madewell are perfect, since they can be stuffed in your bag (without getting destroyed) when you’re not wearing them. 

Refillable Water Bottle

Although tap water is safe to drink in Europe, it’s not commonly offered for free at restaurants (you’ll likely have a choice of bottled still or sparkling water instead). However, in some destinations, you may find public drinking fountains readily available. Save money (and the environment) by packing your own reusable water bottle, like this one from LARQ , which automatically cleans itself using UV technology. 

The LARQ bottle comes in both an insulated and non-insulated version, so you can choose between having a light weight to carry or having perfectly chilled beverages all day long. 

Pack a pair of sandals you can wear to the beach, hotel pool, and for short walks. Ipanema’s Trendy Sandals feature a minimalist style that will blend in anywhere. The lightweight sandals are made from PVC so they can be easily rinsed off after every wear.

You’ll spot chunky white sneakers on the feet of many stylish Europeans this summer. Join the crowd with New Balance’s classic 550 sneakers . The low top and clean silhouette go with everything from jeans to dresses, and there’s plenty of arch support and cushioning to keep you comfortable. 

The 8 Best White Sneakers for Travel

Pack no-show socks that will actually stay up if you’re going to be doing a lot of walking. These ones from Bombas have grips on the heel that help to keep them in place. 

Toiletries/Miscellaneous 

In addition to the same toiletries you’d pack for any destination (toothbrush, toothpaste, hand sanitizer, etc.) here are some important ones to remember for Europe:

Even if you’re not hitting the beach in Europe, sunscreen is still a must-pack for summer trips. Sun Bum smells good and doesn’t leave a white cast, so you’ll forget you’re wearing it.

A travel-sized pack of tissues can come in handy for more than just the sniffles (like at a public bathroom that’s run out of toilet paper.)

Medications

In some European destinations, you’ll have to visit an actual pharmacy to purchase even over-the-counter medications, and these pharmacies tend to have somewhat limited hours. 

Pack sample-size packets of medicines just in case, so you don’t have to waste time hunting down a pharmacy if you have a headache or stomachache. 

The Best Over-the-Counter Sleeping Pills for Long-Haul Flights

Electronics

Don’t forget to pack a pair of headphones for the long flight over from the United States. Skullcandy’s Push Active Earbuds are wireless but still secure (in case you plan on working out while you’re on vacation).

The earbuds are voice-controlled, so you don’t have to stop what you’re doing to change songs or take a phone call. 

Appliances in Europe run on 220 volts, while ones in America use 110 volts. Fortunately, most modern appliances (like iPhones) automatically switch voltage, so you won’t need to worry about bringing an electricity converter (but double-check your electronics before trying to use them abroad). 

However, you will need to pack an adapter in order to use standard plugs in Europe. 

Portable Charger

It’s easy to run down the battery on your phone when you’re snapping pictures and taking video to capture all the memories—and constantly using maps to figure out directions. A portable charger can revive your battery without you having to go back to the hotel or find a place to plug it in.

Biolite Charge Series Portable Charger Review

Travel Documents

As with any trip, don’t forget these important travel documents:

• Copies of passport (you can scan them to your phone or the cloud instead of carrying paper)

Although most places in Europe accept credit cards, you’re still likely to find a few cash-only destinations, so make sure you bring some cash with you.

When you are using a credit card, make sure you’re choosing one that doesn’t charge a foreign transaction fee , as those can quickly add up.

Download Our Ultimate Packing Checklist for Europe

When its time to start packing, download our editable checklist here .

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The Backpacker Network

Travel Essentials for Europe – Packing List for Backpacking!

Choosing what to pack for Europe can make or break your trip. Pack too much and you’ll be frustrated dragging around stuff you never use. But if your packing list is too short, you may find yourself spending a ton of money on things you could’ve just brought from home! 

So, if you’re tired of working out exactly what should be in your backpack, we’ve got you. This list of travel essentials for Europe will help guide you on your next trip! 

Read More: (Links open in a new tab)

• Europe Backpacking Routes
• Top Backpacking Destinations in Europe
• Backpacks for Europe

Ultimate Packing List for Europe

Luggage for europe, backpack or suitcase.

Before planning what to take to Europe, you need to work out how you’re going to take it. While we here at Europe Backpacker are big fans of travelling with a backpack , the suitcase vs backpack debate is always whispering away in the background. 

Outside historic centres, streets in Europe tend to be smooth and there aren’t that many locations that involve getting too far off the beaten track to reach your accommodation – so suitcases are more than suitable for most trips. However, if you’re travelling for more than a couple of weeks – or plan on moving between locations a few times – backpacks tend to be easier.

For light-packing travellers, a 40-litre backpack is ideal. They can usually be taken as carry-on bags and due to their smaller size, are easy to take on public transport in Europe. But if you like more home comforts as you travel, you’ll want something bigger. At the end of the day, choosing the right size backpack is personal preference, don’t let anyone decide for you!

Osprey Farpoint/Fairview 40

Osprey's 40-litre Farpoint (men's) and Fairview (women's) are the best-performing travel backpacks for Europe. They're spacious, comfortable and easy to get your gear in and out of!

Some travellers to Europe will opt for a duffel bag . Sitting somewhere between backpacks and suitcases, duffel bags are easy to pack and manoeuvre but aren’t as comfortable as backpacks and are harder to transport across long distances than suitcases – especially if they’re heavy!

Regardless of what we think the best luggage for Europe is, if you strongly prefer one option over another, go with that! 

Packing Cubes

It doesn’t matter which luggage option you pick, you’re likely to want some semblance of organisation within it. Packing cubes to the rescue! They allow you to keep your stuff organised and easy to find in your bag. They make packing easier and some can even compress soft items like clothing, to maximise space within your luggage! 

Whether you use a backpack, duffel bag or suitcase, include a daypack in your packing list for Europe! Daypacks allow you to carry your day-to-day essentials as you explore your new surroundings! 

Stubble & Co The Roll Top

Stubble & Co's Roll Top makes an excellent daypack for travel in Europe! It's durable, comfortable to wear and can hold plenty of stuff for your day-to-day explorations! 

If you’re tight on space or don’t want to carry an extra backpack on the plane, consider a packable daypack . These pack down super small and can be stuffed into your main luggage until you need them! 

Clothes to Bring to Europe

• Jacket – Unless you’re travelling to Southern Europe in the middle of summer, a travel jacket is a great idea for any European packing list. They’re lightweight, don’t take up much room and will keep you warm on chilly evenings or cool days. 
• Rain Jacket – No matter when you choose to visit Europe, bring a packable rain jacket just in case. You never know when a freak downpour could catch you out. Plus, rain jackets offer excellent wind protection if it’s a bit too breezy for you! 

• Jumper – Even if you travel during summer, a thin, lightweight jumper will offer insulation on cool days. If you’re travelling Europe in the winter , you’ll want a couple of thicker (but not too thick) jumpers that you can wear with other insulation layers!
• T-shirts/Vests – No matter the time of year you travel to Europe, there should always be a few t-shirts in your bag. They’re the ultimate multipurpose clothing item! 4-5 different tops is the ideal number but enough for a week is recommended (note: it doesn’t have to be a clean top every day)! If it’s going to be hot, consider replacing a t-shirt or two with vests or tank tops. Likewise, if it’s going to be cold, long-sleeved t-shirts will be a welcome addition. 
• Trousers – Jeans, travel pants or leggings, no matter how you choose to cover your legs, it’s worth packing at least one pair of semi-formal trousers. For men, a good pair of jeans or dark travel pants will do the job. For women, dark leggings, jeans or travel pants are perfect. In the winter they’ll keep you warm and you may want a few pairs! Long, semi-formal pants also mean you can get into classy clubs or restaurants without worrying about a dress code!
• Shorts – Especially important in the summer, shorts help keep you cool while exploring or hanging out at the beach. If you’re travelling in colder climates, shorts aren’t so important but having a lightweight pair is always a good idea – even if they’re just for hanging out at your accommodation while you wait for your laundry! 
• Dresses/skirts – If you’d rather wear a dress or skirt than trousers, pack them instead! Dresses and skirts are excellent for summer in Europe as they’re breathable and offer protection from the sun! They can be worn to the beach, in nice bars and restaurants or even for just chilling out at your accommodation! 
• Pants – I don’t need to know how many pairs of pants you usually wear in a week! If you plan to do laundry as you travel, a week’s worth is a good estimate. But if you don’t, plan for the length of your trip!
• Bras – A couple of comfy day bras plus at least a sports bra is recommended. 
• Socks – Again, a week’s worth of socks is a good estimate. Include at least one merino wool pair if you are planning on tackling any of Europe’s best hikes ! If most of your trip will be around the pool or at the beach, you may not need a new pair of socks every day. Remember, the more time you spend barefoot, the fewer socks you need to carry! 

Loungewear/Pyjamas

• Comfy Clothes – Sometimes you just want your PJs to snuggle down in for the day. If you’ve not already planned a set of comfy clothes for sleeping or relaxing in, now’s the time to include them! 
• Swimming Gear – For men, this is as simple as a few pairs of board shorts, swimming trunks or god forbid, budgie smugglers. For women, a few bikinis or swimsuits will be plenty for a summer trip to Europe. Even if you’re on a winter trip, be sure to check whether your accommodation has a hot tub or spa before taking the swimming gear out of your bag! 

Footwear for Europe

• Shoes – Choosing travel shoes for Europe is relatively simple. Unless you’re doing a lot of proper hiking, a comfy pair of sneakers or walking shoes will more than suffice. If you’re travelling somewhere cold, wet or snowy, consider waterproof shoes for added protection against the elements. Black or dark-coloured shoes are best as they can pass as semi-formal if required. One pair of closed-toe shoes is usually enough for most trips to Europe! However, if you’re tackling some proper hikes, you might want to consider a pair of hiking boots or rugged hiking shoes. 

Tropicfeel Shoes

Tropicfeel make comfortable, lightweight shoes for travel. They're versatile, easily replacing 2-3 regular pairs of shoes from your backpack!

• Sandals – Whether you’re at the beach or wandering around Europe’s most romantic cities in summer, sandals are an ideal choice for keeping your feet cool! For most people, 1-2 pairs of sandals is more than enough. Just make sure they work with multiple outfits!
• Flip-Flops – An alternative to sandals, flip-flops are a good choice for beach days or shower use if you’re staying in a hostel! 

Accessories for Europe

• Buff – Buffs are excellent travel accessories that should be on every packing list for Europe. In summer, they protect you from the sun and help wick sweat away from your skin. In winter, they protect you from the cold. 
• Scarf/Sarong – Scarfs and sarongs are up there with some of our favourite accessories for Europe. They’ll keep you warm in the winter and offer protection from the sun in the winter. You may want to carry a sarong if you’re visiting religious sites as you can use it to cover your legs or shoulders if there are particularly conservative rules in place! 
• Hat – Whether it’s hot or cold, there’s a travel hat for you! Woolly hats, beanies and bobble hats are all ideal for travelling to Europe in winter, while caps and sun hats are perfect for a summer trip to the continent!  
• Gloves – It’s no secret that vast swathes of Europe get cold in winter. Protect your hands with a good pair of gloves. They don’t need to be thick – even lightweight travel gloves make a big difference!
• Water Bottle – A reusable water bottle is a must-have travel accessory. Throughout most of Western Europe, tap water is safe to drink. This means you can fill up your water bottle from wherever you’re staying, so you don’t need to waste money (or single-use plastic) on buying bottled water every day! If you don’t have much room in your bag, consider a collapsible water bottle , like the Platypus Soft Bottle or Vapur Anti-Bottle , they fold or roll down super small when not in use. 

• Filtered Water Bottle – While much of Western Europe has safe drinking water, that’s not always true in Eastern Europe. Rather than take a standard reusable bottle, opt for a filtered bottle instead, so you can create your own clean drinking water from any source! Our favourite water purifying bottle it the Grayl UltraPress !
• Travel Towel – Lightweight, absorbent and quick drying, a travel towel should be in your bag for every trip. They can be used at the beach, at the pool or just to dry off after a shower at your hostel. 
• Money Belt – While Europe generally has an excellent reputation for safety , certain parts of the continent are well known for pickpocketing and petty theft. Rather than fall victim to this, opt to wear a money belt , or an alternative secret stash , to keep the bulk of your money and belongings safe from thieves. 
• Face Mask – While some countries have completely forgotten a pandemic ever happened, others are still enforcing mask-wearing on public transport and in some public spaces. Keep a face mask to hand in case you need it while on the road. 

Electronics to Pack for Europe

• Phone – This one pretty much goes without saying. We all tend to carry our phones without even thinking about it anyway. But a smartphone is an amazing piece of travel gear. It allows you to connect to the internet (either via WIFI, a local SIM or an eSIM ), translate words or phrases and work out money conversions on the fly. Plus, a smartphone can be both your camera and entertainment device, with games, podcasts and streaming services! 
• Camera – Cameras are great, I love travelling with mine. However, unless you’re a keen photographer or are trying out a new skill, you’ll likely get just as good (if not better) photos from your phone – have you seen the camera on the new iPhone?! 🤯

• Laptop/Tablet – Not everyone likes travelling with a laptop. Even lightweight options are heavy and take up a load of room in your bag. Plus, some of us like to disconnect when we travel. If you don’t need a laptop but still want a screen bigger than your phone, opting for a tablet is a good compromise. They’re lighter, easier to pack and can do almost everything a laptop can! 
• E-reader – an e-reader, such as a Kindle , Nook or Kobo , is an excellent addition to any traveller’s backpack. E-readers can store thousands of books and e-books are much cheaper to buy than their physical counterparts – what’s not to love?!
• Powerbank – Electronics need charging and sometimes you’re nowhere near an outlet. Having a power bank means you can keep your phone charged if you’ve got important documents saved on there, or keep your e-reader chugging along, so you can read your way through an entire flight! 
• Relevant Cables – Don’t leave home without all the necessary cables for your electronics! While most can be found abroad, it’s a hassle if you have to spend the first day of your trip searching for a charging cable. 
• Universal Adapter – Not all power outlets are the same as at home. Having a universal adapter means you don’t need to worry about getting separate adapters for each country you visit! 
• Travel Insurance – You’d be foolish to travel without good travel insurance . From losing your luggage to breaking an arm, the right travel insurance will protect you financially from all manner of things that can go wrong while on the road.

SafetyWing Nomad Insurance

SafetyWing is the travel insurance of choice for scores of backpackers! 

• Subscription style insurance
• Cheap and flexible
• Available after your trip has started
• Torch – While smartphones tend to have a torch as standard, carrying a separate torch for travel is a good idea. You can use them to illuminate a dark street, navigate a dorm room at night or find your way to the trailhead pre-sunrise! 
• Headphones – Whether you prefer your headphones wireless or still crave the nostalgic feeling of a cable, pack at least one pair of headphones for your trip. That way you can listen to music or podcasts whenever you want and watch Netflix in the evening without disturbing your dorm mates!
• Money – Get some local currency before you leave home – but not too much. Just enough to get you from the airport to your accommodation. ATMs are everywhere in Europe and you’ll often find it’s cheaper to withdraw money than convert it from your home currency. This is especially true if you opt to use a travel card for Europe – these tend to have no or limited fees for withdrawing money abroad! 
• Personal Medication – If you take meds regularly, you’ll need them while you travel! Make sure you’ve got enough and know how to travel with prescription medication .
• Soap/Shower Gel – Not all accommodation options provide soap or shower gel. Make sure you’ve got a small stash (flight sized) to take with you! Soap bars are a good option because they don’t take up your liquid allowance on the plane! 
• Shampoo and Conditioner – If you use shampoo and conditioner regularly, make sure you’ve got some travel bottles ready to go! As with soap, shampoo and conditioner bars are an excellent choice for travellers! 
• Toothpaste – It’s rarely supplied, so bring some with you – you’ll likely need to pick up some more as you travel but it’s easy to find in any shop or supermarket in Europe!

• Sanitary Products – While tampons and sanitary towels are easy to find throughout Western Europe, your choices may become more limited if you get too far off the beaten track. Make sure you’ve got what you need. And if you’re interested in reducing waste as you travel, consider buying a menstrual cup ! 
• Lip Balm – Long flights and days out in the sun can dry your lips out. Lip balm with SPF protection should be on every traveller’s European packing list! 
• Hand Sanitiser – Even in a non-pandemic world, hand sanitiser is a must for travellers. It means you can clean your hands when there’s no soap in the bathroom and helps prevent you getting ill while on the road! 
• Suncream – Especially important if you’re travelling in summer or spending a lot of time outdoors, suncream protects you in both the short and long term! 
• Moisturiser – If you’re travelling somewhere particularly cold or dry, or spending a lot of time outdoors, a tube of moisturiser is a welcome addition to your packing list!
• Makeup   – For those who wear it, don’t travel without your makeup! It can be expensive to replace in Europe! 

Where to Buy Travel Gear

If you travel a lot, you’ll likely have most of what you need already. There’s no point buying new stuff just for the sake of it. Save the money for a cheeky beer or two on the road instead! 

However, if you do need to go shopping for new gear, these are our favourite places to do it.

• A huge range of travel and outdoor gear on offer
• Excellent prices and feature some of the world's top brands
• Easy-to-navigate website

• A disruptive company changing the face of travel brands
• Produce everything from travel shoes to clothing and backpacks
• One-stop travel brand

• Well known and well-respected backpack brand
• Offer luggage options for every type of trip
• Well-priced – high-quality gear

But they’re not the only places. You can often find most of what you need in your local supermarket or shopping mall! 

Things to Consider When Packing for Europe

When you visit Europe will have an impact on what you need to pack. You don’t want to pack for long, hot days at the beach if you’re visiting in the middle of winter! Likewise, packing a bunch of jeans and jumpers for a summer trip to Europe will weigh you down with items you’re unlikely to need! 

Pay attention to the time of year you’re travelling and research average weather conditions for your trip. This will give you a good idea of what clothes you’ll need! 

As important as the season you’re travelling in is the destination you’re visiting. Summer in Southern Spain is very different to summer in Iceland . And winter in Scotland throws up a very different set of conditions to winter in Southern Italy . Make sure you know what the conditions will be like at your destination when choosing what to pack for Europe! 

Activities  

Pack for your activities! If your trip revolves mainly around chilling on the beach, pack plenty of beach clothes. But if you’re heading into the mountains for some serious hiking, your bikini and swimwear will be of little use. 

You don’t need to pack a fresh outfit for every day of your trip. Laundrettes are common in many European cities and if you can’t find one near you, hotels and hostels in Europe frequently offer a laundry service!

Length of Trip

While the amount of clothes you need for a two-week or two-month trip is the same, versatility becomes more important for a longer trip – especially if you’re travelling between different countries, climates and seasons! 

Versatility 

It doesn’t matter where you backpack, choosing versatile clothes and travel gear is always a good idea. By packing items with multiple uses, you can reduce how much you need to carry. A good long-sleeved top can be used for insulation on cold days and sun protection on hot days. Likewise, a universal plug adapter can be used all over Europe and even in the UK – meaning you don’t have to carry multiple adapters for a trip to multiple countries! 

If you’re travelling in winter or somewhere particularly cold, don’t pack a massive jumper or coat. Instead, bring a series of thinner items you can layer together. They’re easier to pack and offer much more versatility than one bulky item! 

Packing List for Europe – A Round-Up

With this list of essentials for European travel, you’ll be well set to enjoy your travels without worrying about what’s in your bag! Of course, every person is different and this packing list is only a guide. Add and remove things to customise the list for you! 

Europe is a wonderfully varied continent – get out there and enjoy it! 

What additions would you make to this packing list for your trip? Let us know in the comments below!

Tim Ashdown | Writer and Gear Specialist

After a life-changing motorcycle accident, Tim decided life was too short to stay cooped up in his home county of Norfolk, UK. Since then, he has travelled Southeast Asia, walked the Camino de Santiago and backpacked South America. His first book,  From Paralysis to Santiago,  chronicles his struggle to recover from the motorcycle accident and will be released later this year.

28 Top Europe Packing List Items for 2024 + What to Wear & NOT to Bring

From London to Lisbon and Istanbul to Iceland, Europe is extremely varied. It’s important to know what to pack because in a single trip, you may find yourself trekking up the snowy Swiss Alps, sunbathing on the Mediterranean coastline, then trudging through the rainy cobblestone streets of Paris. Even destinations only a short flight away can feel on opposite ends of the Earth.

Asher and I have been to Europe 9 times and used our extensive experience to compile this list of items that we feel are useful on any European trip. I’ll also cover what to wear in Europe , what items NOT to bring, and some important FAQs. Bon voyage!

What to Pack for Europe – 28 Essentials

1. neck wallet.

Europe is notorious for its pickpockets, especially in cities like Paris, Rome, London, Barcelona, Amsterdam, and Dublin. An RFID-blocking neck wallet allows you to easily conceal your cash, credit cards, phone, eyeglasses, and hotel keys while not screaming, “I’m a tourist!” How? The neck wallet can comfortably hide under your blouse, t-shirt or jacket, making it next to impossible for pickpockets to reach. This particular brand is extremely well-made and affordably priced.

View on Amazon.com ➜

2. Lipstick-Sized Portable Charger

Getting lost in Paris at night with a phone that just ran out of batteries was a pretty frightening experience, and not one I’d like to repeat. That’s why I always carry this tiny lipstick-sized portable charger in my purse or neck wallet. It’s super reliable and ensures I will never be without a way to look at a map, call an Uber, or to communicate with my family or friends when I’m in a pinch.

3. Virtual Private Network (VPN)

A high number of websites (or parts of websites) get blocked in many European countries. For example, often, music videos and movies on YouTube or Netflix won’t be viewable. A good VPN like NordVPN will make it possible to visit every website without censorship.

Perhaps more importantly though, is the security that a VPN gives you. According to an IT Governance report , there were over 110K breaches in Europe during the month of November 2023 alone! We learned this the hard way in Paris where we had our credit card number stolen after using what we thought was a secure Wi-Fi network at an Airbnb rental. Whenever you go on someone else’s Wi-Fi, whether it’s at a café, airport, Airbnb, or hotel – you’re potentially putting your passwords, credit cards, and identity at risk of being hacked. With a VPN, you protect your sensitive data on any device with just 1-click. And it’s super affordable!

View NordVPN.com Options ➜

4. Universal Power Adapter

European plugs and outlets are about as varied as their terrain. The most common outlets in Europe include Type C, E, F, and G. To ensure you don’t get stuck in a country without a reliable way to charge your phone or laptop, I recommend bringing a universal power adapter that will work in all European countries (except for Italy ). This one pictured comes with two USB ports, a built-in fuse to protect your devices in case of a power surge, and a lifetime replacement guarantee .

5. Natural Jet Lag Relief Pills

Jet lag is rough when flying to Europe, so I was completely overjoyed when a friend told me about NO JET LAG. Not only is it 100% natural , but it has literally zero negative side effects. The groggy, fuzzy, heavy, exhausted feeling lifts faster and allows me to get on the move upon arrival.

Pro Tip: If you find yourself anxious or jittery during flights, another solid way to stay relaxed is with this Jet Lag Relief Essential Oil . It’s mild, soothing, and combats frazzled nerves. Put a few drops on the outside of your sleep mask and feel your body start to settle down.

6. Travel Insurance for Europe

Insurance is mandatory for parts of Europe and we never leave the country without it. Europe is not a cheap place to foot a hospital bill (especially when paying out-of-pocket), and accidents happen when we least expect them. Since your domestic provider typically does not follow you overseas, we recommend protecting your travel investment against situations like cancellations, delays, theft, baggage loss, medical transport, and international hospital expenses. We had a friend break her arm hiking in Europe. Luckily, she didn’t have to pay the $35K airlift or $8K in medical bills because she had insured her trip for peace of mind and it really paid off.

Our go-to provider is Faye because they are evolving the entire insurance industry! Instead of having you fill out piles of tedious paperwork, jump through hoops, and cross your fingers to get a reimbursement – Faye handles everything on their mobile app. They wired us the funds when we needed it most instead of hanging us out to dry. Plus, in case something comes up, they can even cover you for “trip cancellation for ANY reason.”

Get a quote in less than 60 seconds with Faye ➜

7. Quick-Dry Travel Towel

Having your own travel towel in an unfamiliar hotel or B&B can be a lifesaver. These microfiber towels weigh less than half a pound and are ultra-packable. You will find yourself using them to dry off after showering or swimming, as a picnic blanket, a beach towel, or to face whatever moisture you come up against ! They dry 10x faster than cotton and without a doubt, are perfect for day trips and general travel alike.

8. Packable "Just In Case" Bag

This bag is genius because it takes up literally no space. Collapsed, the “Just in Case” bag is about the size of a folded tank top — but when full, it’s a large personal item bag that fits under your airplane seat. It also attaches to the handle of your carry-on luggage for smooth airport transit. Throw it in your larger suitcase at the start of the trip – it’ll come in handy for all the souvenirs (and chocolate!) you will inevitably pick up along the way.

9. Windproof Travel Umbrella

In order to be able to enjoy yourself even in the midst of rainy days, you need a good quality travel umbrella like the one pictured. I prefer bringing this puppy along instead of buying an overpriced one from a side street vendor that is sure to break. This one is windproof and super compact at only 12-inches when collapsed. It also comes with a lifetime replacement guarantee !

Pro Tip: If you’re heading to an extremely rainy climate like Ireland or Iceland and want to be sure to stay dry even in unpredictable storms, throw these disposable ponchos in your daypack and wear them under your umbrella. Here are our favorites for adults and children .

10. Hanging Toiletry Bag

European “water closets (W.C.)” and bathrooms are considerably smaller than the ones you’re probably used to in the U.S. — and full of charming quirks! This said, you might find your B&B in Prague or a tiny hotel in Rome won’t have ample bathroom countertop space for your makeup and skincare routine.

I like to bring this ingenious hanging toiletry bag that easily hangs on any door or wall to ensure I always have as much space as I need to stay happy, sane, and organized. This one boasts 3 external pockets and 4 large internal pockets so that you can fit everything you’d need for a multi-week trip across Europe. I leave it packed with my smaller travel products so I can just grab it and GO when adventure calls. It’s a brilliant find and you’ll never want to leave home without it!

11. TSA-Approved Silicone Travel Bottles

Try these cute travel-sized bottles that will give you the perfect amount for a normal length trip abroad. They are TSA-approved so you won’t have to throw away any part of your precious regimen and all bottles will fit easily in the hanging toiletry bag (or keep them in their own case). It’s always more challenging to find the products that you might love at home while overseas, so if you have skincare and haircare products that you like, it’s best to bring them along.

12. Prepaid Europe SIM Phone Card

Don’t pay the ridiculous roaming rates that your current provider will charge you when traveling abroad. This is a simple and easy way to have a local number and high-speed data on your phone the moment you get off the plane in Europe. We used it heavily on our last 2 week trip through France and Italy and it worked perfectly. In fact, this one is compatible with 30 European countries and comes with 20GB of data! All you need is an unlocked phone for it to work. Voila!

13. Luggage Straps

As a fairly underrated travel accessory, luggage straps are a must-have item for any traveler. They will ensure you don’t fall victim to the nightmare of having your suitcase bust open during transit, leaving all of your dirty laundry on display because of a faulty zipper or lock.

These heavy-duty straps can withstand more than 700 lbs of force-tension and will extend the life of your luggage since your bags won’t have to work as hard to hold all of your European souvenirs together! My favorite perk is that it’s way easier to spot your suitcase in a crowd of conventional bags – between the bright colors and built-in ID card, your cases will be easier to identify as you hop between airports, train stations, ports, and buses (where often, thousands of bags are all thrown together or consolidated). These belts are TSA-approved and offer real peace of mind as you repeatedly hand over your items on an international journey.

14. Discounted Tickets on European Attractions

Whether you are climbing the famous Eiffel Tower , trekking the Acropolis of Athens , standing in awe of the Roman Colosseum , or witnessing Barcelona’s Sagrada Familia – Europe has a plethora of history and magic to offer you. Where else can you swim in a geothermal spa , explore medieval castles , or stare into the eyes of Da Vinci‘s beloved Mona Lisa ?

Get Your Guide is our favorite booking service for top-tier excursions that really bring your trip to life. Building a dream itinerary is easy since you can compare reviews to ensure you’re reserving the best activities. GYG even offers cancelation up to 24-hours before your tours, making it a flexible option for all adventurers.

See all European attractions at GetYourGuide.com ➜

15. Packing Cubes

Europe has so many climates (cool, desert, alpine tundra, highland, and Mediterranean) . Prepare for any scenario with these packing cubes that are a total game-changer! You can easily categorize your suitcase for a stress-free traveling experience (use one cube for tops, one for bottoms, one for dresses, swimsuits, etc.) Gone are the days of digging through your luggage to find that long-lost sock . We also love the two bonus laundry bags that keep your dirty clothes from intermingling with your clean ones.

It’s available on HeroTravelSupply.com with an exclusive 15% discount using the coupon code “ HERO ”.

Or view on Amazon.com ➜

16. Cooling Towel

Does anyone else get a bit crabby when they get hot? (Hands please!) This cooling towel is great for the entire family because I think we all hate memories of near melt-downs in 90-degree weather. All those potentially disastrous moments — waiting in line to see Big Ben with crying little ones with no shade in sight… or walking to get the Barcelona Metro mid-August in a humidity-induced daze have since faded away merely because I discovered this remarkable little towel! It’s non-toxic, chemical-free and once you wet the material, the ice-cold cooling effect lasts for 30-60 minutes before you simply wet it again to restart the process.

17. Motion Sickness Patches

For those that suffer from motion sickness, these Anti-Nausea Motion Sickness Patches are amazing for planes, trains, and automobiles! Winding European roads can be especially curvy with lots of bends and turns, many of them carved into the sides of vertigo-inducing mountains. These patches are a miraculous herbal remedy that saved me on many occasions – trust me, they work. Don’t call in seasick or carsick to your vacation, use these instead.

18. Luggage Locks

These TSA-approved luggage locks will protect your valuables from getting stolen while your luggage is in transit. I also like to use one on my backpack while exploring crowded cities to keep pickpockets’ hands out of my stuff and they’re perfect for locking lockers in hostels or tourist sites. I seriously never travel without at least one or two combination locks, it truly helps with my peace of mind.

19. Travel Daypack

If you’re planning any day trips, a good foldable daypack should be at the top of your packing list. This Venture Pal backpack is the perfect blend of features, quality and affordability. We’ve found it to be comfortable, durable, and has numerous little compartments for all our needs. It’s also super lightweight and folds into itself so that you can store it easily when you’re not using it. Available in many colors.

20. Wellies (AKA Rain Boots)

Wellies are essential footwear for Europe since many hot spots are rainy year-round (London, Paris, Zurich, Milan, etc.) But even sunny destinations have a wet season. These rain boots are made to withstand the elements, keeping your feet dry in surprise downpours and combating any muddy terrains with non-slip traction. Add waterproof shoe bags to your suitcase to ensure you don’t get any dirt, mud, or street funk on your clean clothes!

21. Water Bottle with Built-in Filter

Water quality is tough to predict in many parts of Europe – some places have delicious, drinkable tap water. Others have little to no drinkable water available without buying expensive pre-bottled water that is bad for the environment. I always recommend that travelers bring their own water bottles with a filter, to ensure that their water is comfortable to drink. This water bottle has a built-in filter so all you have to do is fill and drink.

22. Gorgeous Outfit

Europe’s restaurant scene is killer , and there are endless opportunities to enjoy the nightlife. Even if I’m planning a fun family trip, I always pack at least one or two outfits that I would feel beautiful wearing in the evenings. It’s not always easy for me to find clothes on Amazon that I like, but I LOVE this jumpsuit because it’s easy to pack, doesn’t wrinkle if it’s tossed into my bag, and looks great on so many body types.

23. Women’s Comfy Flats

Many say that Europe is best enjoyed on foot. From museums to cafés to just taking in the architecture, you will be walking A LOT. Summer months can be hot with high chances of humidity and rain. You’ll want something breathable and comfortable, especially if they get wet in a sudden downpour. These Crocs (yes, Crocs?!) are actually super cute cozy and cool on muggy days. They are my feet’s most-loved flat choice.

24. Activated Charcoal (Food Poisoning Fix)

Europe boasts countless adorable restaurants and cafés, but… many won’t be as clean as the places you frequent at home and food poisoning happens. The most surprising was when I actually got SO sick from a $250 Michelin-rated meal in London. (Ok, I did eat roast pigeon, but I thought while in London, why not try some of the local fare!) Please don’t ruin your trip by not bringing these along. They will shorten the duration of the food-borne illness dramatically and in many cases, can alleviate the problem immediately.

25. Cheers Hangover Relief

These supplements use vitamins and liver-detoxing herbs like milk thistle to remove alcohol from the body more quickly. Asher and I aren’t big drinkers, but the wine in Europe is divine. When making the most out of pub tours, vineyard stops, and gourmet dining – keep your body in tip-top shape with these hangover-prevention pills. You don’t want to spend long days in museums or on historical tours with a looming headache and fatigue. If you’re planning to drink, give them a try!

26. Deodorant Wipes

Europe in the Summer is a hot and muggy wonderland. While you’re immersed in the historical beauty all around you, you do NOT want to worry about dripping through your couture. I personally hate reapplying deodorant to my already sweaty armpits, and I will no longer succumb to washing my face and underarms in a sink that has no paper towels to dry myself. These non-toxic, natural wipes do the trick! They fit nicely in my purse or day pack, and with a quick wipe, I’m as fresh as a daisy!

27. Rolling Suitcase

Choosing a good suitcase is like choosing a good partner – both will need to be durable, reliable, secure, and ready to come on many adventures with you (and look good while doing it!) The apple of my eye is this Wrangler Rolling Suitcase . It is massive and really exceeded my expectations. Made of 100% nylon, it has the lightness of a duffle bag but the sturdiness of a regular suitcase. It will be a breeze to maneuver through crowded airports and cobblestone streets (or hauling up typical 5-story buildings with no elevator; you will thank us). Arrive at your hotel in utter comfort, at an even more comfortable price!

28. Reusable Wine Bags (Leak-Proof)

Since these prevent bottle breakages in transit, these reusable leak-proof bags are great for drinkers and non-drinkers alike. I use them for souvenirs and family gifts like French perfume bottles, Italian olive oils, delicate ceramics, literally anything made of glass ! With thick bubble padding and a double seal, you can get a ton of use out of them. And of course, between the Chianti, Bordeaux, Champagne, Cava, and any other European spirit you stumble upon – these will be a thoughtful addition to your checked luggage.

1. Travel Stroller or Double travel stroller

Pro Tip: If you have older children (ages 5+) consider bringing along a double-seated stroller. You’ll be walking miles and miles in Europe and kids get tired easily. Give their little legs a rest and your sleepy tots will probably take a nap on the ride home.

View on Amazon.com ➜

2. Travel Car Seat and Stroller Combo for Infants

Note: All airlines will check your car seat at the ticket counter free of charge. View on Amazon.com ➜

3. Travel Carseat for Toddlers and Little Kiddos

Pro Tip: A Car Seat Luggage Belt is an ultra-portable travel solution to work with what you already have. The strap allows you to attach your car seat to your suitcase. So in a matter of seconds, you have an effortless mode of getting your kids from airport to airport without having to push a heavy stroller around (plus all carry-on luggage). Works like a charm!

4. Stroller Clips

5. Woolino Sleep Sack

It’s a great way to keep babies cozy on an airplane and ensure they feel safe during long travel days. It’s also helpful for unpredictable temperatures in hotels. It’s a bit expensive but also worth it since it replaces loose blankets you would otherwise need in the crib. We don’t have to travel with many blankets, which also keeps our luggage weight down.

6. Baby Bjorn Travel Crib

Pro Tip: Before you travel, have your tot take a few naps using this travel crib and create a consistent routine around it. Your babies will come to perceive it as a place of solace. This at-home practice will be invaluable to them connecting with it in new and unfamiliar settings.

7. Homeopathic First Aid Kit

We try to opt for the homeopathic approach to medicine because it is a natural and often botanical way to treat the underlying cause of conditions – aiming to get you off the medicine sooner rather than becoming reliant upon it. We love that these natural, safe, effective remedies don’t cause harmful side effects and are safe for children. Natural remedies actually stimulate the body’s ability to heal itself and boost your baby’s natural immunity. They have saved us repeatedly during teething, tummy aches, or sickness. I can’t recommend them enough.

• Natural Gas Relief – We have many Hyland baby products and love that they are formed with NO artificial flavors or dyes. They relieve the pains of gas, stomach pressure, burping, constipation and bloating, and restlessness.
• Echinacea Drops – We give our children these immune-boosting drops before any trip and they’ve yet to become sick while traveling. They taste like nature’s candy and can be given to children 6-months+. Crafted with wild echinacea flower, it provides natural health in a bioactive compound.
• Baby Calm – As the name indicates, these tablets are wonderful for calming your little one and keeping them relaxed. For a baby that is restless, teething, or gets fussy and irritable while traveling – these are a lifesaver. They instantly reduce baby’s irritation so everyone can get back to sleep!
• Earache Relief – By age 3-5, nearly every toddler has had an ear infection and it is one of the most common reasons young parents go to the doctor. These all-natural drops are a must-have for parents; they will reduce symptoms like pain, irritability, fever, and sleeplessness, providing a safe application in the form of a dropper.
• Baby Vitamin C – Mary Ruth is one of our favorite brands because it’s organic and what you see is what you get – the only ingredient in this product is organic Vitamin C. It is an incredible immune booster, powerhouse antioxidant, and protects against free radicals. I start to give our children this a few days before we travel.
• Camilia Teething Relief – Prevent teething pain before it begins with these natural relief drops. We aim for homeopathic solutions that target the root cause of the pain instead of just masking the symptoms. These droppers also alleviate digestion issues related to teething, restoring peace for the entire family.

See more tips on traveling with babies in our guide on best baby travel gear ➜

Other Europe Packing List Items Not to Forget

• Travel First-Aid kit
• Compression Flight Socks
• Facial Cleansing Wipes
• Affordable Underwater Camera
• Reusable Travel Wine Bags
• Steripod Toothbrush Cover
• Dental Floss
• Hand Sanitizer
• Mini Hairbrush
• Nail Clippers
• Insect Repellent
• Loofah Glove
• Noise-Canceling Headphones
• Headphone Splitter
• Flash Drive
• Memory Card
• Electronic Organizer Case
• Travel Toilet Paper
• Shoulder Bag Women
• Shoulder Bag Men
• Waterproof Phone Case
• Travel Pillow
• Travel Sheet
• Personal Item Travel Bag
• Passport photos
• Other European packing lists you may like:
• Amsterdam |
• Barcelona |
• Camino de Santiago |
• Castle Trip |
• Copenhagen |
• French Riviera |
• London & UK |
• London Study Abroad |
• Mediterranean Cruise |
• Santorini |
• Switzerland |
• Vatican City |

What Should I Wear in Europe?

Europe’s weather varies a lot by country and by season, so it’s a good idea to do a little research on your specific destinations. Three things you should expect with a trip to Europe are:

Walking: You’ll be doing a LOT of walking. Bring shoes that are comfortable but that still look nice.

Fashion and Style: No, you don’t need to dress like a model, but you should look nice to fit in. Choose mainly dark colors, especially dark jeans if you’re wearing jeans.

The weather often varies a lot across Europe so you will want to pack clothes that are versatile. European women are quite stylish so choose outfits that are more on the smart casual side. Ankle boots are very popular and a pair of nice sneakers or flats are great to have while exploring around. Choose dark colored pants, jeans, or leggings to wear with camis, blouses, long knitted sweaters or cardigans, and dresses. Outside, leather jackets are popular and a scarf is essential. Accessories to add to any outfit include retro shades with a leather saddle bag or vintage rucksack to carry your things. What should MEN wear in Europe? – (Click to expand) Below is a sample men’s clothing list. (All items link to Amazon.com for your convenience).

Packing for the Seasons in Europe

Spring – march, april, may.

Spring counts as one of the shoulder seasons for Europe, and is an ideal time to travel to many locations which will have sparser crowds and still agreeable weather. Although, some places will be wet and dreary at this time, so check the specs on your destination before you pack.

Rain gear is absolutely crucial during spring, so bring a quality windproof travel umbrella and a good rain jacket . Boots are a good idea in most places, just in case you find yourself slogging through mud or wet grass. Temperatures average between 41°F and 58°F (5°C to 14°C).

SUMMER – June, July, August

European summers are lovely, and typically comfortably warm – though parts of Europe can endure searing heat during the peak of summer.

The downside of this nicer weather is that the summer is when most tourists visit, making it high-season. If you can handle the crowds and the inflated prices, it’s a gorgeous season to visit!

You probably won’t need any heavier outerwear unless you’re traveling to destinations farther north or at higher altitudes. Temperatures average between 59°F and 78°F (15°C to 26°C).

FALL – September, October, November

Fall or autumn is the second half of the shoulder season in Europe, and brings milder weather and again, smaller crowds. Prepare for some precipitation (usually drizzle) and chill, but expect tolerable to fair conditions. As always, check on averages for your destinations to be sure!

Autumn in Europe calls for a light jacket , dependable waterproof walking shoes , and a couple of scarves to keep warm should a chillier day arise. Temperatures average between 45°F and 60°F (7°C to 16°C).

WINTER – December, January, February

Winter in many areas of Europe is cold, but generally mild. Depending on your location, you may experience anything from chilly seaside winds to blustery gales and everything in between. Mostly, you’ll see days that chill you and necessitate hot chocolate and warm jackets .

Churches – Europe doesn’t disappoint when it comes to the number of beautiful, magnificent churches and other holy sites. From the medieval cathedral of Notre-Dame de Paris to the world’s largest church at St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City, and the 700-year-old Westminster Abbey in London, there’s a lot to see! With any religious site, it is important to dress conservatively. Shoulders need to be covered and women should avoid wearing anything with a deep v neck or tops that expose the midriff or back. Dresses, skirts, and shorts can be worn if it goes below the knee. Keep in mind, many places have now banned selfie sticks so leave them at home.

Museums and Galleries – You can find some of the world’s best museums in Europe. What was once a medieval fortress now houses the most famous painting, Leonardo Da Vinci’s Mona Lisa, at the Louvre in Paris, France. There’s also the Rosetta Stone at The British Museum in London, and insights into Athenian life at The Acropolis Museum in Athens. Dress smart casual if you are planning to visit any museums or galleries. It can often get quite chilly so bring a shawl or sweater to stay warm. You will also be doing a lot of walking, so make sure to wear comfortable shoes such as flats, loafers, or sneakers. Museums tend to be very quiet so avoid anything with a heel that makes a lot of noise while walking.

Eating Out – Europe is a food lover paradise offering the best of French, Italian, Greek, and Spanish cuisine just to name a few. From traditional markets offering local products to the best of fine dining, you can find an array of foodie experiences. If you are looking for the best of the best, book a reservation at a Michelin starred restaurant such as Arpège in Paris, The Ledbury in London, or La Pergola in Rome. Europeans tend to dress up in the evenings so pack a few nicer pieces for dining out. Men can wear leather shoes with trousers or dark fitted jeans with a button up shirt and blazer jacket. Women can wear wedges or a pair of nice flats with maxi dresses for warm weather or dark slim fit trousers with a nice blouse on top and a few accessories during colder months.

What NOT to Take to Europe

1. don’t bring lots of electronics.

I recommend packing a camera and a Kindle , and maybe your laptop, but don’t bring much more than that. Unless you have other electronics you’ll really need on your trip, it’s just not worth the risk of them being lost or stolen.

2. DON’T PACK a bath towel

It’s a good idea to bring a towel with you to Europe, but regular towels are bulky and heavy, and take way too long to dry. Take a quick-dry travel towel instead – they’re much lighter and smaller, but still plenty absorbent.

3. DON’T TAKE expensive jewelry

Similarly, you don’t want to risk valuable or sentimental jewelry getting lost or stolen on the road. Plus, wearing a lot of flashy jewelry can make you a target. Pack a couple of pieces you’ll want to wear on your trip, and leave the rest at home.

4. DON’T BRING lots of cash

Except for in very rural areas, nearly any place you visit in Europe will have ATMs, and many spots take credit cards, too. There’s no need to take a ton of cash and risk it being lost or stolen.

5. DON’T PACK a bunch of books

Some hostels and cafes in Europe have book exchanges where you can pick up a free paperback and drop it off at a future exchange when you’re done. Or, you can simply load up a Kindle , and do your reading on a lighter device that’s easier to pack.

6. DON’T TAKE a Europe-wide guidebook

Lonely Planet and many other publications have a guidebook that covers all of Europe, but they rarely have sufficient detail on any individual place. Do your generic Europe research online, and get the guidebooks for the specific countries or regions you’ll be visiting.

7. DON’T TAKE too many clothes

Pare it down to a few outfits, and if you run out of things to wear, it’s not hard to find a place to do laundry in most parts of Europe.

8. DON’T PACK overly casual clothes

Europeans tend to dress well and dress up more than North Americans do. While you’ll want some casual clothes for hanging around your hostel or hitting the pool or beach , I’d suggest bringing slightly nicer clothing for your Europe trip.

FAQs About Trips to Europe

1. is the tap water in europe safe to drink.

You can drink the tap water in most of Europe. However, that is not true for countries in the Balkans and the Former Soviet Union. In those areas, travelers should be careful to avoid tap water unless it has been treated. In Eastern Europe, you may also want to avoid untreated tap water outside the major cities to be safe. With this being said we recommend you always use a filtered water bottle to be sure.

2. How prevalent is English in Europe?

Among European countries, English is the primary native language only in the U.K. and Ireland, but it is widely spoken as a second language elsewhere. In Nordic countries and the Netherlands, a large portion of the population speaks English well, even in smaller towns. In Western Europe, you won’t have much trouble finding English speakers in major towns or popular tourist sites, and most people who work in the tourism industry speak English.

The farther east you go, however, the less English you’ll encounter (though hotel staff still commonly speak English). English speakers can certainly still travel in those countries, it just might be a bit more challenging.

3. What countries in Europe are the cheapest to visit?

In general, Eastern Europe is significantly cheaper than Western Europe. Hungary, Bulgaria, Romania, Poland, and the Czech Republic are especially popular budget travel destinations, but Slovakia, Serbia, Latvia, and Ukraine are also very cheap to visit.

4. Is it safe for women to travel alone to Europe?

Yes! Women should have no more fear about traveling alone than men should – especially when traveling to places in Europe. Stay in areas that are safe for tourists, don’t flaunt the fact that you’re a tourist, and take standard safety precautions with your money. The one thing that may be more applicable to women than to men is that you shouldn’t go walking alone at night, but that’s standard anywhere.

Don’t carry excess cash, take familiar routes when possible, try to avoid out-of-place clothing, and relax! You’re more likely to blend in instead of sticking out as a tourist if you look like you belong there. It will likely make you more comfortable to research current country-specific travel notes here .

5. What vaccines or medicines should I get before traveling to my destination?

Since each country will have its own regulations and mandates, stay up-to-date through the CDC’s Destination Tool . It allows you to select the countries you are visiting and check real-time updates on the vaccines and medications that you need for your next trip. It is also recommended to consult a physician at least one month before you depart to ensure you are current on all required vaccines and medicines for that particular destination.

If you are traveling to several countries with unique vaccine requirements, confirm the cross-over and discuss your specific travel plans with your doctor. If you’re only in a country for a short duration or you’re only remaining in the touristic area near the coast (for example, while cruising ), certain vaccines may not be necessary.

6. Is it worth getting a Eurail pass?

Europe’s train systems are highly lauded, and many backpackers and other travelers in Europe plan their trips around riding the train from country to country. But many find themselves wondering, “Is a Eurail pass worth it?” Whether a pass is the cheapest option depends on how many train rides you’ll be taking, where you’ll be riding, and how far in advance you could book tickets.

In general, a pass will save money if you’re visiting a lot of different countries and/or taking long train rides, while buying individual tickets is cheaper if you’re booking far in advance or if you’re traveling exclusively in Eastern Europe. But, one of the biggest perks of using a pass is the flexibility: last-minute train tickets are expensive, so if you want to be able to travel with more spontaneity, a pass is the way to go.

7. Do I need to tip in restaurants in Europe?

Restaurants in Europe often note on the menu or bill that a service charge is included, in which case an additional tip is not necessary. Otherwise, tipping is not required but it’s customary to round up the bill. If you do decide to tip, make sure to do it in cash and hand it directly to your server. The major exception to this rule is Scandinavian countries, where tipping is not generally practiced.

8. What is the best way to get around Europe?

Public transportation is well developed throughout most of Europe, and it’s generally easy to get from country to country. Most trains in Europe are comfortable and efficient, and train travel is probably the most popular way to get around, whether you opt for a Eurail pass or individual tickets (see above). For most routes, though, the bus is cheaper than the train, and Eurolines is the main network of international buses in Europe. With budget airlines like Ryanair and EasyJet, flying between countries can be an affordable option, too; just check Google Flights or a site like Kayak to see all the flight options.

9. Where can travelers get off the beaten path in Europe?

In general, Western Europe is much more traveled than Eastern Europe, and capital cities and historical sites are often heavily visited. To get off the beaten path, head to rural areas or to countries in the Balkans or the Former Soviet Union, which see relatively little tourism.

10. Do I need a visa to visit Europe?

To visit countries in the Schengen Area, which currently includes 26 European countries, citizens of the U.S., Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, and most of Central and South America do not need a visa for tourist visits of up to 90 days (within any 180-day period). The U.K. is not part of the Schengen Area, and allows citizens of most of the same countries to visit visa-free for up to six months. Check here to verify the current requirements.

11. What is the best time of year to visit Europe?

In general, the best seasons to visit Europe are the spring and fall, particularly in May, June, and September. During these months, prices are lower than during peak season, and the weather is agreeable in most areas.

12. Are there any good Mediterranean cruises?

Absolutely! Apart from the Caribbean, we believe the Mediterranean is the best place to do a cruise. Why? Well it’s simple, you often get to see six different countries in the space of 10-days and many itineraries have only a couple of cruising days. This means you can be out exploring the ports every day and finding the best food and best excursions to do while enjoying such an array of different cultures in such a short time. If you’re wondering what to pack for a cruise , read our full guide.

13. Are there any recent travel restrictions to be aware of?

The European Union (the political union of 27 major European countries) applied a wide range of safety measures regarding the COVID-19 pandemic. These requirements have varied from negative diagnostic tests to not allowing in non-citizens for non-essential travel, essentially locking down the borders.

As of late 2022, Travel restrictions are lifting more and more – France, Finland, Greece, Croatia, Portugal, Denmark, and others are relaxing the vaccination requirements. Iceland and Norway have removed nearly all COVID-19-related travel restrictions.

If you intend to travel in the E.U., you should check the European Commissioner’s Platform for real-time border updates. You can also visit Travel.State.Gov for a traveler’s checklist on documentation requirements and they are a great resource for Country Specific COVID-19 Information .

14. How can I save money while traveling in Europe?

There are lots of ways to save money in Europe. For starters, stick to hostels or try couch-surfing to cut your accommodations costs. Car rentals and taxis can be pricey, so use trains and buses to get around instead, or just walk. Limit eating out, and pick up groceries for some of your meals; look for hostels or vacation rentals that have kitchens where you’ll be able to cook.

Try eating out at lunch instead of dinner too, as many restaurants in Europe have good-value (and filling) lunch specials. Skip the bottled water, and just bring a reusable water bottle that you can keep filling up. And of course, putting a limit on your alcohol consumption will always save money.

Lyric Fergusson

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Travel Tips

The ultimate Europe packing list for your next trip

By Dominic Oliver

Lover of literature and all things travel. Probably happiest sitting on a tiny plastic stool on the side of a bustling Vietnamese street. Head of Creative Communications for Contiki. 7 years in the travel industry. Currently based in London.

Published on Apr 10, 2024

Reviewed by: Kelsey Burbridge Contiki Trip Manager for Europe

Table of Contents

Clothes for everyone, underwear and socks, accessories, sun-seekers, winter adventurers, electronics and accessories, toiletries and personal items, documents and money, what should i pack for 10 days in europe, what should i pack for two weeks in europe, what should i pack for 30 days in europe.

The time has almost come. The nervous anticipation. The incomparable excitement. You’re about to explore one of the world’s most diverse continents. And though you’ve read the guidebooks (or the Contiki itineraries), one question remains: what’s going to be on your Europe packing list? 

Whether it’s your first, or just your latest trip that’s in the works, it never hurts to have a list of the packing essentials for Europe. Even seasoned pros have found themselves halfway around the globe and realised not a singular sock has found its way into their suitcase *cough* guilty *cough*. That’s why we have put together the Europe travel checklist to help you explore lightly (and sustainably) with all the essentials covered.

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What’s the first thing you think about when planning your Europe packing list? Clothes, right? Well don’t worry, we’ve got you covered (literally). Here are some general guidelines to keep in mind:

1. Keep it light

Now the quantity that you pack is going to vary depending on your trip, but less is more. There are launderettes in Europe and it’s best to pack light to leave some space for the awesome souvenirs you’ll be picking up along the way. There’s no shame in being an outfit repeater, if an outfit is hitting then why not wear it again?

Due to its environmental impact, we’re not big fans of fast fashion at Contiki (and we did say this would be a sustainable list). So, rather than buying millions of items of Asos for one trip that you’ll never wear again, think about high quality items that’ll have a long shelf life and that you’ll reuse for your next trip. You can read here for extra sustainable fashion tips as well.

2. Keep it simple

I am not recommending that anyone only pack monochrome clothing, but quality, versatile staples are easy to match and remove the morning struggle of assembling an outfit. They’re called staples for a reason! It can be as easy as keeping in mind the colours of your tops and bottoms when packing.

Trying to pack and wear a completely new wardrobe for ‘Europe you’ is probably going to be expensive and frustrating to actually incorporate into your day-to-day travel outfit. I can almost guarantee you’re going to regret leaving your favourite plain white tee at home. You’re still your awesome self, just in Europe.

So, bring that outfit or two with wow-factor but you have to ask yourself, if the item is not something you would wear in everyday life, how many times are you realistically going to wear it on the road?

3. Keep it seasonal

Before choosing things to pack for Europe, you first have to decide  when  you’ll be travelling to Europe. (If you’re still struggling with that decision,  check this out ). Because what you pack for Poland in winter is of course going to be very different from what you pack for your Italian summer. 

The main difference between your summer and winter packing list will be layering and a few specialty items. Don’t worry, we have made extra lists for you further down the article for summer and winter travellers.

Image source: Contiki

THE travel fit

I am talking that one outfit that embodies comfiness. What this outfit looks like is entirely up to you but think ‘loungewear’; trackpants, leggings or shorts paired with a hoodie or a sweater.

And if you’re travelling in summer and need an extra nudge to sacrifice suitcase space on a cozy and comfy outfit, let me plead my case:

• You might be surprised at how large Europe is and that means you’ll spend a decent amount of time on the road, at train stations or in the air.
• You are going to get cold. Temperatures can drop at night and they do have AC in Europe (…okay rarely, but sometimes).
• This outfit can double as PJ’s, which you will need unless you plan on going au naturel in shared hostel rooms.
• It can double as a nice squishy pillow that you pop between your head and hard surfaces if you’re squeezing in a snooze on the move.

Something for rain

Not to ruin all of your hot girl summer dreams… but there’s a chance it’s going to rain. Bring an umbrella or light raincoat and you’ll be prepared to breeze through those summer showers and straight onto your next bucket list experience.

I recommend a couple of sets of swimmers for summer travellers, that way when one suit is drying you can still pop on a dry set. Winter travellers may be hesitant to bring any, but you never know when the waters are going to call your name. You won’t regret squeezing in one teensy little pair of bathers when you come across a hot tub or a thermal bath.

• 4-5 casual tops – t-shirts or singlets/vests
• 1-2 going out tops – blouses, button-ups, that sequined number you have…
• 1-2 dresses – if dresses are your thing, I could not recommend them more highly. They’re a whole outfit in one and most can be dressed up or down depending on the event.
• 1 pair of jeans
• 1 pair of trousers, slacks, or a smart skirt
• 2-3 pairs of shorts or skirts – for winter you can swap the shorter clothing for extra pants or jeans.

At least one pair of your jeans or trousers should be free of rips and considered ‘smart’, particularly if you are planning a trip to places with a strict dress code like the Monte Carlo Casino or the Vatican City.

How to perfect your 2024 Euro summer

Be smart about shoes as they will suck up suitcase space very quickly. Most people only need three pairs of shoes; a pair that is comfortable to walk in all day, a pair of smarter shoes and slip-on shoes. Anything extra you can fit in is a bonus.

Comfortable shoes

What you consider an all-day comfortable shoe is up to you, but make sure whichever shoe you pick you have tried, tested and worn in. Blisters will kill the vibe instantly.

Winter travellers note that it may be wet, so it’s best to choose shoes that are water resistant to keep those little piggies nice and warm.

Smarter shoes

This is your ‘nice’ pair of shoes – loafers, boots, clean sneakers or sandals. You can enter most venues in Europe wearing a clean and smart looking pair of sneakers, but this is often at the discretion of security at each bar, club, or casino. If your sneakers err more on the side of athletic than fashionable, maybe consider bringing at least one pair of shoes that are not sneakers.

Personally, I would not recommend bringing high heels. And believe me, my fashionable traveller, I know you have that outfit planned that will only look good with heels. I have been there too. But I can promise you that my outfit did not look that good (nor did I feel that good) after having to navigate stairs and cobblestone streets, even in my most comfortable heels. If you have the space, go for it, but definitely plan to wear them for an activity with minimal walking or dancing.

Slip-on shoes

A pair of slides or thongs (also known as: jandals, flip-flops or plakkies) are easy to pop on and useful for showers, beach trips and those days where tying a shoelace is too much effort.

Not to sound like your mum, but have you packed some spare undies? Underwear and socks are going to be the first clean thing you run out of on the road and there’s only so many times you can turn them inside out before they desperately need washing.

I can’t tell you how many socks and underwear you exactly need, but whatever number you pick, add on an extra pair or two on top of that for good measure.

For my bra wearing friends, pack a few and make sure that you prioritise comfort over looks, because nothing says sexy like a practical bra.

Top tip: I always stuff my socks in my packed shoes to save space.

10 items you need to include on your Europe Contiki packing list

If you have packed smart and kept the clothing simple, accessories are where you get to have some fun without sacrificing luggage space. The same outfit with different accessories can easily take you from casual daywear to a dressed up evening look. Having one or two of each accessory in different colours, patterns or textures can change up a whole outfit.

• Hair accessories like scrunchies, headbands, watches
• Handbags, purses, or totes
• Scarves – For summer, a light scarf can be worn in your hair, on a bag to add pazazz and can even be used as a shawl for covering up in religious sites. For winter, having two different colours increases the variety of outfits you can wear.

Whether you’re going to be sailing the Croatian coastline or climbing the Spanish Steps in Rome, your packing goal is to keep it light and breezy. Linens and breathable materials are your new best friends.

Here are some more summer-specific items to pack:

• If you know you’re going to be swimming a lot, consider bringing an extra towel to act as a ‘beach towel’ so that you aren’t using your already wet bath towel. Traditional beach towels are thick and dry slowly, so consider bringing a spare microfibre towel for swimming.
• Dresses or skirts get serious airflow and are comfortable to throw on over wet swimwear.
• Lightweight pants, you may need to cover up for religious sites or to show respect in places with different cultures.

When picking winter clothes, not all items have to be thick and chunky. Just because it is cold outside, it doesn’t mean you have to look like a marshmallow. Layering your clothing allows you to control your temperature depending on the time of day, cold exposure, and activity.

You don’t want to be a sweaty mess under your three hoodies, that’s why for layering it is best to pack breathable, moisture wicking and heat retaining materials. Laundry is also going to dry slower in winter, so lighter materials are going to dry quickest.

• Thermal leggings – 1 to 2 pairs. They are super light, barely take up luggage space and can be seamlessly worn under your other bottoms (pants or maxi skirts). I would even recommend bringing a pair if you are travelling during early spring, or late autumn, as they allow you to dress how you want but stay warm at the same time.
• Undershirts – 1 to 2. Similar to the above, a thermal or wool undershirt is going to keep you warmest. However, as it is often easier to layer your upper body, undershirts do not have to be thermal by design. I find wearing a ‘normal’ shirt under my layers usually does the trick for me.
• An ultra-light and portable down parka (folds up for portability but nice and warm, too)
• A flannel shirt is comfortable and great for layering
• 1-2 sweaters, cardigans or hoodies
• A jacket to wear over the top – The ideal all-around jacket is water-resistant, insulated and you like the look of it! Your jacket is probably going to be in all of your winter travel pics, so pick one you like but don’t sacrifice warmth or dryness for aesthetics.
• The specs you require will be up to you because travelling to Scandinavia in January is going to require a much more heavy duty jacket than Spain in February.
• Socks – fight the temptation to pack your thickest socks and opt for moisture wicking socks that not only keep your feet dry, but dry quickly after washing.

Okay your clothes are packed, and you packed smart, so now you have space for all your other bits and bobs. But what are the things to bring to Europe that you’re actually going to use? Let’s get into it…

It seems obvious, but don’t just bring your phone (and the cord!) but also make sure it is set up for travel before you leave your home country.

Wifi is readily available most places but make sure you can access your most important information offline. Have you downloaded your tickets? How about your travel insurance information? Maybe take a photo of your passport while you’re at it too.

If you are planning on buying a European SIM card on arrival (highly recommended) you make sure that you are not relying on banking apps or other services that require text verification unless it can be updated to your new SIM.

There is nothing worse than being lost on the streets of Rome and your phone dying. Buy one with a large capacity (they’re pretty sleek these days) and charge that bad boy up, normally they will last you a few days between charges.

Universal plug adaptor

Not sure which countries accept which plug type on your trip to Europe? Save yourself the research and get a universal adaptor that covers all the bases.

Kindle or other e-reader

This has to be one my favourite travel essentials of all time. Long gone are the days of lugging around hardbacks I picked up at the airport. 1 small device. Hundreds of poolside reads. The perfect travel companion.

Want to pretend your life is a movie? Listening to Paris by Taylor Swift in Paris is a one way ticket to a main character moment. You can also pop these in to drown out any snorers in hostel rooms.

Ditto to the above, earplugs are the analogue alternative to headphones. We really don’t want you locked up abroad for murdering a snorer.

Another item to help you catch those Z’s. Every minute of quality sleep counts when there is so much to see during the rest of the day.

Cross body bag

A backpack makes a great day bag, but for when you’re only out and about for part of the day (or night) you’ll appreciate travelling light, especially if you’re clocking up some mileage on the d-floor! The cross body feature makes the bag more theft resistant and won’t scream I AM A TOURIST like a fanny pack will.

Let’s be honest, you’ll totes be shopping in places like Milan, Paris and London. So say no to single-use plastics, and bring along a tote bag that can easily be popped in your day bag. (It looks better anyway).

Water bottle

Speaking of single-use plastics, did you know that 88% of the sea’s surface is polluted by plastic waste? Water in Europe is generally incredibly clean, safe and delicious. So, yeah, bring a reusable water bottle. Think of the baby turtles, man.

If you’re staying at a hostel when backpacking Europe, there may be lockers for your valuables. So bringing a small padlock is always a good idea.

Packing cubes

Heard of these guys? Not only do they keep everything nice and compact in your case/bag, they also are a great way to categorise your stuff on the move. When you’re scrambling on the floor of a hotel/hostel with 2 minutes until checkout, it’s nice to know where your underwear is, ya’know? 

The exact contents of your toiletry bag are exactly that, personal, and to be honest I don’t even know your skin-type so I can’t get into specifics. But here are some must haves for everyone:

A microfiber one, to be precise. These lil’ beauties fold small and dry in no time at all, so you’ll be able to pack and go without a musty scent emanating from your backpack. Ideal.

Ever heard this  epic Baz Lurhmann track?  He’s got a point. Keep yourself looking youthful and beautiful, and more importantly: safe. Sunscreen is an all-year round toiletry, some of the most harsh sunburns I have seen are from the sun reflecting off snow on the slopes.

Toiletry bag

It’s a good idea to fill this with little versions of your everyday essentials, so getting through airport security is a breeze. Buying small bottles, tubes and containers and decanting your everyday products into them is much more affordable than buying the travel sized versions.

Below 100ml of larger products like deodorant, perfume/aftershave, shampoo, conditioner and toothpaste is ideal.

Tissues and wet wipes

A few packs of travel tissues and a small packet of wet wipes will get you out of sticky situations…literally.

Basic medication

While they have paracetamol in Europe, save yourself the hassle of hunting down pharmacies and translating medications from Dutch to English by bringing yourself a basic first-aid kit:

• Pain relief – paracetamol and/or ibuprofen
• Band-aids – blisters happen when you least expect them
• For those rough mornings – electrolyte replacement sachets like Hydralyte
• If you get travel-sick – travel-sickness tablets or ginger tablets
• If you have a sensitive stomach – consider bringing a gut calming medication
• If you take regular medication – make sure you have it handy and enough packed for the duration of your trip

Credit cards and debit cards

While most places accept tap-and-pay phone payments, a lot of Europe still relies on cold hard cash as their preferred payment method. Bring a couple of physical credit or debit cards to withdraw cash.

Aim to bring cards from at least two different banks or accounts in case an unexpected block or issue occurs with one of the providers.

Not all travel cards and credit cards are made equal. Compare the international transaction fees before travelling so you do not end up with a shock when you see your bill.

Sort travel insurance

If you’re booking a Contiki, you can get it directly through us. Alternatively, some banks offer travel insurance to their customers under certain policies, or shop around using a comparison website.

Make sure it’s still in date and has at least 3 to 6 months before it expires. Many countries have in place laws that prevent travellers from entering with less than 3 or 6 months of validity on their passport.

Alternate ID

Passports + big nights on the town = not a good mix. For most venues in Europe you will be able to use official ID from your home country as proof of age, such as a drivers licence. By reducing the frequency you take your passport out, you reduce the chance of losing it.

Visa (if needed)

Most of Europe is part of the Schengen Zone which allows many nationalities to freely travel between 27 countries for up to 90-days. However, before you head off it is best to double check any visa requirements for where you are heading. For example, a visa is required in Turkey for most travellers.

As you can see, a fair bit of thinking goes into a Europe travel checklist.ut there’s no need to be overwhelmed!

I can safely say on my first Europe trip I didn’t think to bring at least half of the items covered in this list. The above list has been created over many trips, and many more mistakes.

We have provided guidelines on what to pack for Europe, but at the end of the day it is your holiday of lifetime so pack whatever feels right to you.

This is your ultimate 3 week Europe itinerary!

Think about the essentials for your Europe packing list. Underwear and socks for each day, a few tees, a few pairs of shorts, a pair of jeans, some nice clothes for going out, swimmers and electronics. If you can’t fit it into a carry-on, you’re doing it wrong. Less is more.

2 weeks in Europe is where checked luggage might be justified. More underwear and socks, for a start, so you’re not always scoping local laundrettes. More varieties of clothing for different temperatures. Oh, and if you’re checking luggage, you don’t have to worry about those pesky liquid limits, so go nuts with your perfumes and face creams.

Honestly, my advice is: about the same as what you’d pack for two weeks. I once travelled for 6 months in South East Asia with a single backpack, and it slowly dawned on me that I had way more stuff than I needed. Make sure you walk the line between having everything you need and not lugging heavy luggage over cobblestoned streets every few days. Trust me, it’s not worth it.

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The Ultimate Packing List for Europe: Fall Edition

Here’s a not-so-secret fact about us: fall is our favorite time to travel in Europe (and packing for fall in Europe is extra fun, too).

Crunching leaves, changing colors, the wine and olive oil harvests, dissipating crowds, cozy clothes, and cooling temperatures: traveling to Europe during autumn is absolutely fantastic, and you couldn’t ask for a better time to plan a trip.

We’ve spent several fall seasons in Europe, enjoying everything from the bright blue waters of Malta in September to the cozy vibes of Budapest in November , with many destinations in between.

Heading off on an autumn adventure and ready to put together a packing list for Europe in the fall?

We’ve rounded up everything to need to pack for autumn in Europe here–plus some advice on what to wear.

Table of Contents

How to Use This Packing List for Visiting Europe in the Fall

The absolute essentials for visiting europe in the fall, travel gear you should definitely pack for fall in europe, packing list for europe: fall wardrobe for women, packing list for europe: fall wardrobe for men, other travel gear for your packing list for europe in autumn, read more about visiting europe.

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At the risk of stating the obvious, Europe is a large and diverse continent.

In other words, if you’re planning a September trip to Sicily , you’ll need a much different packing list than if you’re planning a trip to Norway in November.

You’ll definitely notice some stark variety in my outfits in the photos for this post–all of which were taken in Europe during the fall!

This packing list for Europe in the fall is designed for a traveler who’s visiting Europe in late September, October, or November, and is who’s avoiding destinations far in the north (like Lapland) or at a very high elevation, where much warmer clothes might be needed.

Think strolling through the streets of Paris , wine tasting in Tuscany , or admiring the fall foliage over Neuschwanstein Castle in Germany, for example.

Of course, always be sure to carefully check the weather in the destinations you’re planning to visit as your trip gets closer, but this fall packing list for Europe will provide a great jumping-off point for deciding what to bring (and what to leave behind).

Passport — Definitely the most important item on any packing list for Europe in the fall!

Travel Insurance — We don’t ever suggest traveling without travel insurance–anything can happen, and visiting Europe in autumn is definitely a case of it’s to be better safe than sorry.

Check prices and inclusions with Safety Wing  for your fall trip to Europe!

Visa (If Needed)  — Though 26 countries in Europe are part of the Schengen Zone that allows many nationalities (including US citizens, Canadians, and Australians) to enter and travel freely between their countries for 90 days for tourism, that still leaves around half of Europe’s countries that are  not  part of this agreement.

Regardless of where you are from, always double-check entrance requirements before showing up at the airport to fly to any European country (or any country at all that isn’t your own, for that matter).

Money  — We recommend bringing two credit cards (one to use, and one to keep as a backup), and two debit cards. Ideally, bring cards with no foreign transaction fees.

We’ve never felt it necessary to obtain currency before arriving (we just withdraw from an ATM when we get there), but you can purchase most currencies in your home country if it makes you feel more comfortable.

Keep in mind that not all countries in Europe are on the Euro, so be sure to double-check what currency you’ll need based on your itinerary !

International Driving Permit — If you are coming from outside the EU and plan to rent a car during your fall trip to Europe, you may need an International Driving Permit to do so!

Italy in particular is well-known for enforcing this requirement.

Be sure to check the rental requirements in any country that you plan to drive in before you arrive!

Camera  — We have been using our  Sony a7R III  for several years now and absolutely  adore  it, but whatever camera you’re comfortable with works–just make sure you have something with you to preserve your memories! 

Be sure to check the requirements for any particular country that you visit–the United Kingdom, for example, is well-known for using different plugs than most of the continent.

(Not that you should need to worry much about theft from your hotel room during your trip to Europe, but it’s better to be safe than sorry!).

Comfortable Day Bag — We currently use Pacsafe’s sleek anti-theft backpack and love it, but if you don’t want to shell out the cash for this trip, that’s totally understandable.

Just aim for something comfortable to wear, not flashy, and medium-sized–we used a Northface Jester backpack for years and loved it as well.

When visiting Europe in the fall, I promise Option B is the best bet! We love this easy-to-pack umbrella and bring it just about everywhere.

They’re incredibly handy and we recommend adding one to your packing list for Europe this fall.

We’ve been carrying ours for years and it never stops coming in handy!

Reusable Water Bottle  — Save both money and plastic during your spring trip to Europe and add a reusable water bottle to your packing list for Europe!  I love this metal one .

Apple Air Tags  — Air Tags are a relatively new addition to our Europe packing list, but we’ve absolutely loved having the extra security when checking out luggage!

If so, you’ll be so glad you brought along a Swiss Army Knife–ours has saved us from a last-minute snack packaging crisis many times!

Student ID  — If you’re a student, you’ll be entitled to lots of discounts on museums and attractions throughout Europe (though note that this is sometimes just for EU residents–be sure to double-check individual attractions before getting your hopes up).

If you’re a student, be sure to add your ID to your autumn packing list for Europe.

Cell Phone  — We spent more than a year traveling without working cell phones, just relying on wifi… and while that’s completely fine, we would never go back.

Consider purchasing an international plan for your cell phone (most carriers offer them), getting an eSIM, or, if you have an unlocked phone, you can just buy a local SIM card once you land in Europe.

You’ll want to structure your personal wardrobe for traveling in Europe based on where you’re going, of course.

A glamorous trip to Paris calls for different clothes than hiking in Ireland or soaking up the last of the year’s warmth in Greece –but if you’re looking for a great all-in-one fall packing list for Europe, this is it!

We like to spend nearly the entire autumn in Europe (especially October, our personal favorite month) these days, and these picks reflect my personal favorite things to wear in Europe in the fall.

Dresses with tights underneath them and a cute pair of boots basically make up my uniform when visiting Europe in the fall–bonus points for sweater dresses.

Think something similar to this one , or something like this for a maxi dress look.

Don’t forget the tights! I love these tights and own several pairs (they hold up forever).

If you’re traveling later in the fall or to a cooler climate, consider adding a pair of cozy fleece tights to your packing list for Europe in the fall.

Simple blouses like this are perfect for most places in the fall in Europe.

Be sure to also bring a sweater or two along–thinner ones are easier to pack and layer, so keep that in mind when shopping. Something like this is a great option.

A Europe packing list for autumn absolutely requires a pair of jeans–I’m obsessed with this pair and wear them everywhere.

If you prefer wearing pants, you might also like to bring an additional pair of jeans–black ones like these are a great way to mix things up.

If you are like me and prefer to wear dresses and skirts more often than not, a cute skirt like this layered with tights and boots is a fashionable and comfortable choice for your fall in Europe packing list.

During autumn in Europe, cute boots rule the streets when it comes to shoes.

I’m currently in love with these boots and wearing them on a near-daily basis.

Something similar to this is also a fabulous option.

September and October in Europe are still a bit early for full-on lined coats in most parts of the continent , though that all changes when November rolls around!

Consider bringing a cute, but lighter option like this along for your trip if it looks like the weather will call for it.

(Though note that in many parts of Europe, citizens dress for the season, not the weather–so if you pass Italian women wearing peacoats when you’re in a sundress in September, don’t be surprised).

Accessories

When it comes to accessorizing for fall in Europe, it’s all about the scarves !

We recommend adding 1-2 on your autumn packing list for Europe, but also keep in mind that scarves make easy, cheap, and lovely souvenirs.

Though they’re far from necessary, I also personally love these cuffs to mix up my look when wearing boots.

Fitted, casual shirts like this and light sweaters like this are both great options for men when packing for Europe in the fall.

Casual slacks or chinos like these are a versatile and easy option for your fall in Europe packing list.

We recommend bringing at least one pair of fitted, dark-wash jeans like these  as well.

Subtle boots like these or classic shoes like these are both good options.

Jeremy is currently wearing these boots and loves them.

Depending on the weather for your trip to Europe, you may not need a heavy jacket at all when visiting Europe in the fall.

Jeremy was comfortable in this jacket all the way through mid-November in Europe last year.

If you want something warmer, consider something a bit thicker–just be sure not to get one that’s too heavy for the season.

Sweaters like this are another great option!

Scarves are both fashionable and comfortable this time of year.

We recommend adding one to your fall packing list for Europe and potentially picking up another one as a souvenir along the way.

You just never know when a long ferry or mountain road might call for some assistance!

Money Belt  — This is up to you: we no longer use one, but if you’re more comfortable having your passports on your person while exploring Europe this fall, you can consider bringing one.

I’ve been using it for more than 6 years now (I’m on my second volume) and absolutely love it.

Basic Medication  — Some people prefer to buy medication for basic headaches, fevers, and stomach aches as needed, but who wants to deal with language barriers when they’re sick?

We’ve never regretted packing our own basic meds.

True, it’s a bit of a pain to carry and not advised in busy areas, but the memories are priceless and the photos you end up with are generally  so  much better than the ones you get by asking a stranger to snap a photo for you!

They’re so tiny you’ll barely notice them when putting together your final European fall packing list, anyway.

Planning a fall trip to Europe and curious about more than your packing list?

We’d love to help!

We’ve been travel bloggers since 2016, and have 50+ countries and years of traveling Europe under our belts.

You can browse our 500+ blog posts in order of original publication here , or check out these guides:

• How to Plan an Epic 2 Week Europe Trip (+ Europe Itinerary Ideas!)
• 25 Bucket List Worthy Things to Do in Iceland
• Paris vs Rome: Which Iconic City is Right for You?
• 25 Best Places to Visit in Italy (+ Map to Find Them!)
• 10 of the Most Beautiful Bookstores in Europe
• The Ultimate South of France Itinerary: Provence + The French Riviera

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

17 thoughts on “The Ultimate Packing List for Europe: Fall Edition”

This is such a comprehensive packing list that I’m sure anyone can benefit from. It’s true that using a money belt is a bit controversial as you said, but I have to admit that I feel safer and more confident with it when travelling to crowded places. I also find your suggestion of UV Lens Protection quite useful, too.

Thanks, FIona! I would definitely get some UV Filters for your lenses–they’re very inexpensive and definitely make a difference.

Wow you guys really have thought of everything! The idea of a portable safe sounds very useful, especially for backpackers. You mentioned a purse at the beginning; is this like a crossover bag? You’re both clearly very organised people, it makes me question my own travelling prep!

We definitely try! The portable safe is definitely useful. My purse is a crossover bag, but it’s a fairly small one–definitely couldn’t fit a laptop or anything like that in there!

A great packing list that is quite useful for many types of trips. I had no idea that there was Sea Bands available to combat sea sickness! I definitely need those for my next trip out on a boat. I love your tips about camera devices. I need to start getting into photography more and this is very helpful. Thanks! Enjoy your trip to Europe.

You will love the Sea Bands! I couldn’t believe how well they worked, and I’m so excited to find an excuse to use them again this fall.

What a really well thought through, comprehensive list. I love how you have been more inclusive here than conservative so people can individually cut out things they may not want. I totally agree with the choices you have made on the more expensive items as they have clearly lasted you some time. You have both developed a great system for backpacking and I hope you have a wonderful time in your upcoming travels.

Thanks, Nicole! We definitely prefer to pay a little more and buy something once and be done with it when possible.

Wow, you have captured every small thing here – from clothes to camera. Even small things like extra zip lock pouches. That is something I remember everytime I am on a travel and realize that the next time I need to add those. Well done and I am book marking this for my easy list for packing next time.

Thanks, Ami! Glad we could help. 🙂

Your list is just the best. It covers all that would suitable for a comfy journey. Thanks for this post. I need a new camera, I’d run through the ones on this list maybe I’d find something satisfying.

Thanks, Lydia! We definitely love our camera–it has been the perfect camera to learn manual shooting on.

This is spot on! I am so jealous of your full-time travel life. Its a future goal for me. These pictures are beyond beautiful. I will keep this for my next European adventure in the Fall!

Thanks, Kerry! So excited for you to get a chance to travel full time–hope you reach your goal soon!

Wow that’s a lot to pack but you guys sure thought of everything to not be needing anything at all! Loved going through your camera gear, it’s always amazing to see what other photographers and travellers pack for it!

Such a comprehensive list! It is very important to bring medicine, in case anything happens. Extra memory cards and batteries are also essential!

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The Ultimate Packing List for Europe in Summer

Figuring out what to pack for Europe is a something I have had to do a lot.  I’ve spent many summers in Europe so I have plenty of experience packing for Europe over the years.  For those of you traveling to Europe this summer and not sure what to wear or what to pack, I have put together the  ultimate packing list for Europe in summer .

Packing List for Europe in the Summer

Europe Packing List Summer – Travel Essentials for Europe

• European Travel Adaptor  – European travel adaptor  for your electronics

• External Battery  –   External battery  to recharge your phone, camera or other electronics (this is one of my  travel essential items  for any trip)

• Comfortable walking shoes  – You will be doing a lot of walking in Europe so comfortable walking shoes are a must for sightseeing. You might want to bring either casual sandals or comfortable flats .

• Camera/photography gear  – Europe is very photogenic so don’t forget to bring your camera!  If you are traveling alone or as a couple, you might want to bring a selfie stick/portable tripod  to take photos of yourself. Don’t forget to bring an extra memory card .

•  Scarf  –  A  lightweight scarf  will keep you warm on chilly summer nights or places with too much air-conditioning.  A scarf is also useful when visiting churches or cathedrals which require women to cover their shoulders.

• Lightweight pants and/or long dress/skirt for women – If you are going to be visiting churches, I recommend women bring at least one pair of light pants or a dress that covers the knees.

• Sunglasses  – Most countries in Europe (especially Southern Europe) are very sunny in the summer so sunglasses are a must!

• Reusable water bottle  –  A reuseable water bottle is a good way to save money on bottled water and also eco-friendly. I use  this insulated water bottle  because it keeps my water cool for hours.

• Hat – If you are going to spend a lot of time outdoors especially in the middle of the day, don’t forget to bring a hat for sun protection.  I recommend Coolibar hats  because they have excellent sun protection.

What to Wear in Europe – Clothes and Shoes

Europeans dress a bit nicer than most North Americans so I don’t recommend walking around in sweatpants or sneakers and shorts.  I recommend dressing fashionable especially in larger cities so you can try to blend in with the locals.

The temperature in Southern Europe during the summer can get very hot so you will need lightweight clothes.  The temperature in Northern Europe is more moderate or even cool and rainy so you will need long sleeve shirts, pants, an umbrella and a jacket or rain jacket.  I recommend checking weatherbase.com to look up the average temperature and rainfall to get an idea what the weather will be like when you are visiting.

• Dresses and skirts   – Bring at least 2-3 dresses/skirts.  A basic black dress is a must and can be worn from day to night.  Maxi dresses are also cute and comfortable for summer.

• Lightweight pants   –  Men should bring at least 2 pairs of lightweight pants for sightseeing and to wear at restaurants or bars.  Women might want to pack a pair of lightweight or linen pants as well. Avoid wearing jeans in the summer in Southern Europe as they will make you feel too hot!

• Shirts/tops  –  I recommend men bring at least 4 short sleeve shirts.  Women can get away with fewer tops if they pack more dresses.

• Sweater   – Pack at least 1 long sleeve sweater for chilly summer nights and air-conditioned places.

• Jacket   – Bring a light jacket.  Some parts of Europe (especially Northern Europe) might be cool in the summer even in the daytime.

• Comfortable walking shoes  – A must for sightseeing. Depending on your outfit you might want either casual sandals or comfortable flats or fashionable sneakers.

• Dressier sandals/cute flats/loafers   – Bring a dressier pair of sandals or cute flats that can be worn for dinner or drinks.

• Platform shoes for women  – Some places of Europe have cobblestone streets so I recommend women avoid high thin heels.  If you need some height, I recommend platform shoes.

• Shorts  – Personally I would avoid shorts in Europe unless visiting beach towns or resort areas.  If visiting mostly cities, I recommend wearing lightweight pants or skirts instead of shorts.

• Flip-flops  –  I recommend wearing cute and comfortable sandals when walking around a European city or town but you might want to bring a pair of flip flops to  wear at the beach or at hostels and hotels.   Havaianas flip flops are my favorite because they have great traction and don’t slip when walking on wet surfaces.

• Underwear, socks and bras  –  Depending on how long you are visiting Europe and how often you will do laundry, bring at least 5 pairs of underwear, 3 pairs of socks and 2 bras.  If you are checking luggage, pack at least 1 of each in your  carry on bag  in case your checked luggage is lost or delayed. ExOfficio underwear is great for travel because it is breathable, quick-drying fabric and odor-resistant.

Europe Packing List – Other Things to Pack for Europe

• Passport • Cash, credit cards, ATM cards (make sure your credit card does not charge a foreign transaction fee) • Drivers license and international drivers license if planning on driving • COVID vaccine card and/or negative COVID test (if required) • Glasses, contacts, contact lens solution • Medication and prescriptions • Face Masks – Masks may be required at your destination so pack a few face masks •  Antibacterial wipes  or  hand sanitizer • Electronics (smartphone, computer, tablet,  kindle , cords, cameras, memory cards) • Toothbrush, toothpaste and floss • Toiletries (makeup, lotion, deodorant, tissues, comb/brush, feminine products, q-tips, razor, shampoo/conditioner/soap) • Noise cancelling headphones  or  earplugs and  eye mask • Compression socks  to prevent DVT on long flights  and drives •  Body wipes  to wipe off sweat • First aid kit (band aids, pain reliever, allergy medicine, anti-nausea medicine, antacid tablets, charcoal tablets ) • Lip balm with UV protection – Don’t forget to protect your lips! Most people apply sunscreen but they overlook sun protection for their lips • Sunscreen  – Don’t forget to bring sunscreen to protect you from the sun. Sunscreen is easy to find in Europe so it is not the end of the world if you forget to pack it. • Insect repellent • Travel umbrella and/or rain jacket – Some parts of Europe can be rainy even in the summer • Bandana – A bandana is so versatile, you can use it to wipe off sweat or use as a scarf or mask • Beach bag – For carrying your beach essentials if planning some time at the beach or pool. • Bathing suits/sarong/kaftan  – If planning to hit the beach or pool. • Universal waterproof phone case  – Keep smartphones dry with this  waterproof case  when hanging out at the beach. • A  quick drying travel towel for the beach or if you are staying at a hostel that does not provide towels • Packing cubes • Day bag, tote or purse for sightseeing • TSA approved locks • Notebook and pen

These are my travel essentials for a summer in Europe. Is there anything else I should add to my Europe packing list ?

Need some travel inspiration for your trip to Europe? Check these articles about the best European travel destinations:

• Best Road Trips in Europe You Need to Visit
• Most Beautiful Cities in Europe You Need to Visit
• Underrated Cities in Europe
• Beautiful Towns in Europe Straight Out of a Fairytale
• Europe Bucket List: 100+ Epic Things to Do in Europe

Related Posts

savvyglobetrotter

Looks like a good thorough list. Very accurate in my experience. I’m a huge fan of noise-canceling headphones as well! 🙂 And a scarf is always great, like you said.

I am one of those last minute before leaving to travel packers. and also miss stuff, I needed a check list and printed this post out, thank you Ma’am.

Really useful list, I need to save it, I always forgot something while I’m packing. Thanks!

I just did a packing list post myself on my blog. Loved reading yours, many of things are same/similar to my list 🙂 I have been thinking of using packing cubes, what do you think about it? Good idea? or Nah…

This is a really extensive packing list, you have really covered yourself here.

Love all these tips for packing for a trip to Europe during the summer. As someone who lives in Europe (until Brexit comes in at least LOL), I’d definitely recommend all of these. Just a note, reusable water bottles can be used in most places in the UK as our tap water is safe. Though if you’re hitting countries like Greece or Cyprus around the Med then I’d advise non-Europeans to be careful with tap water, as it may not agree with you and isn’t always the safest. Happy travels! X

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What To Pack For A Trip To Europe

I generally stick to a few self-imposed rules when it comes to packing for Europe and after many years of travel, my formula is down rather pat at this point. If you have European travel on the horizon, my packing tips should be helpful to both inspire and help you plan.

Related: My Travel Essentials , What to Pack for a Flight to Paris

What to Pack for a Trip to Europe

When deciding what to wear in Europe, one of the keys to packing is to choose items that you can mix and match. I recommend you bring several pairs of pants or shorts (depending on the season) that can be dressed up or dressed down, dresses or skirts for evening, a trench coat, a leather jacket or some other mid-layer depending on the time of year, a neutral blazer or tweed jacket, one pair of shoes for evening and 2-3 pairs of comfortable shoes for daytime. 

I like to buy minis of my morning and evening skincare routine products to bring with me. For a toiletry bag, I store them all in Truffle cases (seen in All My Travel Essentials ). Many European countries are incredibly strict with their liquid restrictions (more so than TSA) so keep this in mind if you’re carrying-on for your return flight.

If you’re spending time in a city, you’ll likely encounter noisy evenings so I always travel in Europe with a pair of earplugs .

But of course! Remember you’ll need to bring this with you to fly but also to do any luxury shopping (for VAT refunds if the country you’re visiting allows) and to check into your hotel.

Many European countries have lifted their restrictions so you likely won’t need this moving forward, but I keep mine in my passport cover just in case.

Carding isn’t really a thing in Europe, but since you won’t want to be out and about with your passport it is good to have your license with you – especially should you need to go to the doctor or hospital.

If you’ve purchased travel insurance, be sure you have documentation of your policy.

Bring along the credit cards you plan to use that don’t have foreign transaction fees. And if you want to get cash out, be sure to have a debit card with you as well. Don’t forget to upgrade your card to a tap-to-pay if you can!

I like to keep photos of all my important documents on my phone in a folder so I can easily access them.

Electronics & Accessories 

Remember that Europe is on a different electric system than the US, and even within Europe there are varying systems. The UK and Ireland have a three-pronged outlet, while the rest of Europe has a two-pronged outlet. You’ll need to bring converters , and things like your Dyson Airwrap or steamer or blow dryer won’t work even with a converter. Leave them behind and instead bring dual voltage electronics.

This is the dual voltage curling iron I use when in Europe. This is a great dual voltage travel steamer . 

Having a portable charger is a must! This one is my preferred model as it is slim enough to fit in purses without taking up much space. This is a great USB plug to have on hand for your hotel room or Airbnb in the UK, and this one for the rest of Europe.

If you also worry about losing your luggage, buy a few  Apple AirTags  and pop them into your suitcases so you can track your luggage. 

If you want to capture family photos or the likes and don’t have time or the budget for a professional photographer – don’t forget the power of a  handy tripod to do so!

If you’re traveling to Europe in the summer, keep in mind that air conditioning is not as widely employed as it is here in the US. So if you run hot, I’d recommend bringing a portable fan  to help cool off.

Many European cities are making a conscious effort to be more green, so I always try to bring a reusable water bottle with me (plus I don’t have to waste money buying water when I’m out and about). Just don’t forget to empty it before you go through airport security!

I always bring  this collapsable duffle with me when I go to Europe to fill up with whatever shopping I do. It fits a lot and easily goes over your suitcase handle as well. I’ll bring it back with me along with the tote I bring on the airplane as my personal item.

If your luggage is over weight you will endure an extra cost so it is a good idea to have a back up bag in case you need to put overflow from your suitcase in there.

Good luggage is a must. I swear by  Away luggage . I have the Bigger Carry On, the Medium and the Large which is my preferred suitcase for when I spent time in Paris. They fit so much! The link included should score you $20 off of your first purchase if interested!

And don’t forget to add  luggage tags  to them, too!

I’m not a backpack girl myself, but I know some people love them for traveling! I’ve heard great things about Calpak’s travel backpacks.  

I know things like money belts used to be considered a “must-have” item for travel to Europe, but nowadays I find a crossbody does the trick. It keeps my personal items close to me and still looks cute. I love the Senreve Aria belt bag that you can wear a few different ways, and if you want to make it more nighttime just add a  chain strap !

Best Packing Tips For  Europe

Consider the weather.

Of course the biggest consideration when packing is the weather. Be sure to check the weather forecast as you are packing! Usually a few weeks out from my trip I begin looking at the weather to see how things have been – has it rained a lot? Has it been colder in the evenings?

Prepare for rain

Regardless of the time of year, I always prepare for rain – that way, I’m not disappointed! Don’t forget to have a good umbrella ( this is the one I bring) in your suitcase and pack a chic trench coat .

Consider getting around

Be sure you check to see if where you’re staying has an elevator. Many places in Europe don’t, so you’ll want to plan (and pack light) should you need to be carting suitcases up narrow stairwells. Also keep in mind the type of public transportation you’ll be using and how accessible it will be with a luggage – this may also affect how you pack.

Stick to a color palette

I always stick to a color palette when I pack for Europe. I want my looks to be stylish, yet comfortable and extremely ready for mix and match wear. I’ll pack a blazer that can go with jeans as easily as it can go over a dress or pair with dress shorts or dress pants. 

I’m a neutrals person when it comes to my wardrobe so usually my looks fall in a variety of color palettes such as the neutral colors of Black/Ivory/Camel or Black/Cream/Navy.

Don’t forget the power of accessories

A purposeful accessory can change an entire outfit – a silk scarf can be donned on your bag or around your neck to switch up the look of the sweater you’ve backed. Or a broach could add a bit of glam for evening on the blazer you also wore during the day time. 

Be thoughtful when planning what shoes to wear

We’ve all heard horror stories of people being unprepared for the miles and miles of walking that come with visiting Europe, so be sure you’re not bringing new shoes that need breaking in. Prioritize comfort but also give consideration to what shoes won’t have you looking like a tourist. Say it with me: comfortable walking shoes are a must. You will be doing lots of walking – trust me.

The Best Shoes to Wear in Paris

Make a packing list

As you prepare for your trip, begin a packing list for Europe in your Notes app to outline the pieces you’d like to bring. Then reference that list when it comes time to pack so you won’t over pack.

Write down your outfits

I always write down my outfits for both daytime and evening when I go to Paris. This ensures I actually wear what is in my suitcase and don’t forget what’s in there. This also helps me not overpack. I have friends who also try on and take photos of the outfits they’re packing to have handy on their phone. You can also organize packing cubes by outfit to keep things organized. Pro tip: if you’re an iPhone user, use the “touch-to-copy” feature and copy the outline of your outfit photos and paste them into the Notes app.

Europe Packing List

Pin this image for later and shop the pictured styles here . 

You May Also Like:

• London Packing List.
• Paris Packing List.
• Scotland Packing List.

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I Haven’t Checked a Bag in 10 Years — Here, My 14 Sure-fire Travel Essentials to Get Everything in a Carry-on

These frequent flier-approved picks cover all of your travel bases, and they start at $10.

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Travel + Leisure

I travel twice a month covering destinations that inspire readers and those planning vacations. In order to efficiently move through airports, take Ubers, and lug everything on my own, I’ve had to master the art of packing light . But as a chronic overpacker in my former days, this didn’t come easy. However, once I started embracing the carry-on-only lifestyle, I would never go back. It’s been over 10 years since I’ve checked a bag — regardless of where I’m going or how long the trip is. 

In addition to quality luggage pieces (I swear by my Gregory Quadro 22-Inch Hardcase Carry-On and always bring Calpak’s Luka Duffel as my personal carry-on tote to fit extra clothes and accessories), successful carry-on-only traveling involves strategic packing. When planning which clothes to bring, I think in terms of outfits and try to incorporate versatile capsule wardrobe items that match with several things (layers are also key). Lastly, compression packing cubes work wonders — as do my 14 travel essentials that always make my packing list so I never have to check a bag.

These go-to items include packing aids, versatile clothing and accessories, and more to help me maximize every inch of suitcase space without going over the limit. Even better, they start at $10 at Amazon. 

Cambond Compression Packing Cubes

Compression organizers are game-changers. Not only do they flatten your items so you can pack more in your suitcase, but they also aid in organizing your outfits; you can pack your clothes according to style, color, or category. Cambond’s sturdy nylon packing cubes have a double zipper for easy access and hassle-free compressing. They’re also water-resistant, which means that they'll protect your items from any potential leaks or spills. I also like that they’re lightweight; the last thing you want to do is add weight to your carry-on. 

They’re sold in sets with various sizing options, and are available in 45 colors. This item is a favorite among shoppers because of how effective the compression is for packing. And, according to one Amazon reviewer , they helped them travel to Europe for "a week with only a backpack and a carry-on." 

Anrabess Romper With Pockets

I always pack a romper because it saves space and maximizes your outfit potential. This super cute one from Amazon-loved brand Anrabess is made with a comfy polyester-rayon-spandex blend to ensure comfort and stretch. You can play with the neckline and wear it several ways — crewneck style, off-the-shoulder, or Bardot-style. The tie-front drawstring at the waist accentuates your silhouette, offering a flattering fit. 

The fabric is thick so it’s not see-through. It makes the perfect loungewear item and is versatile enough to wear to the beach, picnics, by the pool, and even out running errands. Pair it with a nice pair of sandals or heels and it’s the perfect outfit for dinner. I’m a huge fan of pockets, and the romper has two side pockets for holding lightweight (but essential) items such as lipstick or cash.

M.M. LaFleur Moreland Jacket

M.M.Lafleur 

A seasonless suit is a no-brainer when I head out for work trips. Even if you’re traveling for pleasure, sporting a blazer and a pair of trousers creates an instantly sophisticated look. M.M. LaFleur’s Origami Tech collection is specifically designed to be your ultimate travel companion; the Moreland Jacket and matching Colby pants are wrinkle-resistant and machine-washable. 

The set can be worn together or separately; the jacket matches well with a good, old pair of jeans on sightseeing days or leggings when you’re catching a flight. You can also wear it over a dress or blouse-skirt combo for polished lunch or dinner looks. To get the same workwear-inspired travel outfit for less, you can grab Amazon’s best-selling blazer for $58. 

Amazhiyu Button-Down Midi Dress With Pockets and Belt 

Pack a dress that does everything, one that you can wear during the day and do double duty at night. While I’m obsessed with the celeb-favorite Jenni Kayne Day Dress , at a whopping $395, a girl’s got to budget. That’s why, when I found this linen button down dress at Amazon, I couldn’t wait to try it on. It features a sleeveless, collar design with side slits and a removable self-tie belt to give it shape; it’s very flattering and accommodates all shapes and sizes. Sometimes, I use my favorite woven belt (I'll go into more detail about it later) instead, which instantly creates a different vacation look without requiring additional clothing items. 

It’s a great travel piece for spring because it’s made of 100 percent linen, which is known for being a breathable and moisture-wicking fabric. There are two side pockets for stashing essentials, a feature that reviewers praised. One shopper wrote , "I absolutely love this dress. The pockets are really big, which is great. Everything about this dress is quality, and I stayed cool in the summer heat." Another noted that the pockets "are flat and don't stick out" when they have stuff in them. 

Lightbird Foldable Summer Straw Bucket Beach Hat

This packable straw hat is the best travel hack. There have been many times where I’ve wanted to bring a stylish hat, but ended up not doing so because it takes up too much real estate in my luggage. That's no longer a worry with this stylish bucket hat that folds down for easy packing. It also easily adjusts to fit almost everyone with a cinch drawstring lining on the inside. 

It’s a hot travel accessory because not only does it keep you safe from the sun’s rays, it also keeps you cool and looking stylish. Plus, you can use it to spice up your vacation outfits, giving the already-worn looks a fresh feel. 

Vermouth Beauty In The Nude Flight of Five Crayons

When traveling, I always bring these cleverly packaged Vermouth lip crayons, which are sustainably sourced and free of plastics and chemicals. Each "flight" features a color palette of five crayons in various hues, giving you multiple lipstick options without taking up precious toiletry bag space. 

What's more, these long-lasting and hydrating crayons can be worn dabbed on your cheeks like blush or swiped across your eyelids in place of eyeshadow, further helping you cut down on beauty products and freeing up room for other trip essentials in your toiletry bag and carry-on. 

Fjallraven Women's Kanken Hip Pack

I’m a huge fan of Fjallraven travel bags because of their timeless designs and practicality. Made with 100 percent vinylon fabric, this hip pack is durable and water-resistant, and is the only bag that you need to pack. It works whether you’re hitting the streets for a day of window shopping, the trails for hiking, or the strip for dinner. It’s just small enough that it also works as a wallet within a bigger bag or purse, if that's more your vibe (and you need the extra carry-on space). I like wearing it as a crossbody, though some fans wear it as a fanny pack. 

Versatility aside, this bag really shines because of its roominess. One shopper wrote , "I was worried at first because it looks very small, but it has three compartments [and a] lot of room." 

Everlane Day Ballet Flats

Everlane's Day Ballet Flats are easy to pack and don’t take up a lot of space. They can be worn with a casual outfit or dressed up for a nice dinner. Because of their adaptability, you’ll always find them on my packing list. While I own several pairs of the brand’s flats, these are my favorite because they’re chic and comfortable. I especially like the sweet little bow on top. 

The soft, buttery leather molds to your feet, so they get more comfortable with wear. They’re great travel shoes because they’re stylish when paired with denim, leggings, dresses, pants, and even shorts. What's more, the outsoles are made of rubber, which keeps you from slipping on smooth or wet surfaces.

SeptCity Woven Rattan Wide-Stretch Straw Belt

It's time to give my favorite belt its flowers. A belt changes everything, and I love getting creative and refreshing an outfit with this trendy belt. It converts one outfit into another one, requiring you to pack less — a.k.a. why it's a must on my packing list. Its rattan fabric adds an elegant touch to my favorite outfits, and I love to wear it with skirts, dresses, over cardigans, and even tunics (one of my favorite looks is pairing it with this Trovata shift or PrettyGarden’s floral frock ).

It has a sturdy wooden buckle and measures 41.3 inches in length and 1.8 inches wide, but still offers you a little wiggle room with its stretchy design. The belt is also available in beige and cream, which are both neutral colors that work with most outfit palettes.  

Acelitt Short-Sleeve V-Neck Button-Front Belted Jumpsuit

Similar to rompers, jumpsuits streamline the amount of clothes that you need to pack, offering you extra room so you don’t have to overpack and check your bags. This elegant version from Amazon-favorite brand Acelitt is ready for any situation; just add a sweater, blazer, or jacket on top to change it up. It’s comfortable, trendy, and super flattering, and the fabric is soft and stretchy so you can sport it on the plane, around town, and out to dinner without needing an outfit change. 

One traveler wrote , "I love this jumpsuit so much that I have it in blue and black, [and I'm] ordering the olive green next. It's super easy to dress up or down [and] fits true to size. I always get compliments on it. It's great to travel with as well." 

Mammut Runbold Light Pants

Mammut’s Runbold Light Pants are multi-functional for me. I wear them while running, hiking, and lounging, and they're lightweight and breathable material makes them perfect for spring’s transitional temperatures (you can even wear them well into the summer). The elastic waistband offers comfort for all activities, and you can convert to three-quarter-length pants to change up their look when your itinerary calls for it.  

The two slit side pockets have zippers, which are ideal for hiking and traveling. They’re super easy to pack and water-repellent, so if the forecast warns of a slight drizzle, you’ll be okay. 

Everlane’s Cotton Modern Trench Coat

A classic trench coat is a wardrobe staple, and I especially like to pack one for spring travel because it is well-suited for the variable weather. If you’re like me and have been fan-crushing on Jennifer Aniston’s wardrobe on "The Morning Show," then you’re going to fall for Everlane’s Cotton Trench Coat, which is half the price of other brand names and has a classic silhouette, with a belt to cinch at the waistline — and is fully-lined and water-resistant. 

But, if $268 is too much for your travel wardrobe budget, I also spotted various, under-$100 versions at Amazon. Give the Farktop Double-Breasted Oversized Long Trench Coat (on sale for $80) or the Tanming Notch Lapel Double- Breasted Pea Coat-style Trench (which is on sale for $60) a look.

M.M. LaFleur Merritt Jardigan

M.M. LaFleur

The Merritt Jardigan is an investment that I’m glad I made. A cross between a tailored jacket and a cardigan, with a tie-front belt that accentuates your figure, it works wonders for elevating your ensemble, and can be worn from your desk to the airport to dinner. Wrinkle-resistant, stretchy, and long enough to cover your assets, I’ve worn it on the way to Pilates class, at the airport, and for numerous dinners. Plus, the fabric is season-less, which makes it great for any time of the year. 

You can achieve the same elegant, quiet luxury wardrobe vibes with the Anrabess Open Front Cardigan Jacket , which is an Amazon-favorite outerwear piece that's just $50. 

Feisedy Polarized Vintage Sunglasses Jackie O Cat-Eye Sunglasses

I stopped shelling out hundreds of dollars for brand-name glasses because they can easily get damaged or lost, especially when traveling. These elegant sunglasses give off a “Breakfast at Tiffany’s” look at a compelling price, and they're incredibly versatile with their classic black, cat-eye silhouette that can be worn with any outfit for any occasion. 

Not only are they light and comfortable, they’re polarized and offer 100 percent UV protection from the sun. The lenses are scratch-resistant, which enhance their durability. Singing the sunnies' praises, one shopper said , "They're better than my expensive, name-brand sunglasses. I can see better while traveling. I will take them with me on any of my trips without being afraid to lose them… not [a] scratch yet." 

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