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The Ultimate Europe Packing List – Printable and Editable

Many say that packing 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 climates, and the way of transportation. To help you keep everything in order, I created this smart, editable, and printable European 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 the 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. Try to avoid 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 that the city is 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. Check out this  Money belt , neck wallet , or Bra Stash to keep your valuables close to your body and away from pickpockets.

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!

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 can be converted into a backpack.
• Air Tags :  I keep air tags in my wallet, keys, and suitcase. That way, I always know the location of my belongings when I travel.
• 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.
• Band-aids and blister cushions : No matter how comfortable my shoes are, I ALWAYS end up needing to use band-aids. Make sure to pack these – you’ll thank me later.
• 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!

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.

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 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 – Access it HERE

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 in case the airport exchange rate is especially 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)
• International driving permit
• 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: Bring comfortable shoes.

Tennis shoes or loafers like this with thick soles will allow you to stay comfortable on cobblestone roads.

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!

Access This Free & Smart Printable Europe Packing List

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

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. 
• 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.

Save Money by Avoiding Taxis

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!

Do you have any packing tips let me know in the comments below. .

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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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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.

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 (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 worldwide) 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 .

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

Group Tours in Europe

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

We recommend viewing the best range of European group tours on Tourradar .

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

Travel Tips for Europe

We have many travel guides and tips for Europe— an incredible continent!

Are you travelling on a budget? These ten cheapest European countries will help you plan an itinerary that lets you see as much as possible while there.

Furthermore, if you plan to travel long-term (or at least until the money runs out), these 21 cheapest countries to visit will help you make your hard-earned dollars stretch a bit further.

Delicious cuisine can be enjoyed across Europe, and our food map of Europe will inspire your culinary journey.

For food lovers, don’t miss our top 10 best countries for foodies, a couple of them are located in Europe.

Here are 8 things to know about travelling to Eastern Europe  and it’s good to know these  7 misconceptions about Eastern Europe  too.

These top 6 travel hacks to save money  are great to read when planning your travels.

You’ll need to stay connected while travelling in Europe. We recommend eSIM. It’s easy, reliable and affordable. View eSIMs for individual European countries , or consider a regional eSIM for Europe (which covers 39 countries).

If your travels in Europe are part of a much larger global adventure, then a Global eSIM may be the answer. It connects you in 124 countries , offering data-only eSIM and data/call/text eSIM . The Global eSIM has been a game-changer; we couldn’t imagine travelling without it now.

If you want to travel with like-minded travellers, consider joining a group tour. View the best deals on group tours in Europe .

Finally, check out our travel resources page for the best websites, tools and products we use to travel the world.

View the travel gear we use on the road, and don’t miss our best-ever travel tips compiled from more than twenty years of experience. 

Travel Planning Resources

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

🏨 Accommodation :  Booking.com is our preferred platform for booking hotels and accommodation. We use Vrbo to book apartments and long-term stays.

🏥 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!

Tasty Food Adventures

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Eating in Vanuatu – 5 Amazing Foods You Need To Try

12 Best Cheap Eats in Cairns

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The Ultimate Africa Bucket List – Wow all 54 countries!

Visiting Venezuela in the Time of Crisis

My Visit to Saudi Arabia – It’s NOT What I Expected!

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Trusted Hints & Tips

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26 Best Travel Tips For Thailand (2024)

Why you Should Use Airbnb When you Travel – 11 Top Reasons

The 11 Best Travel Websites To Save Money

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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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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 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 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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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!

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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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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.

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 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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Travel Europe on a Budget

The Savvy Backpacker

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Backpacking europe packing list — my europe travel packing guide.

A comprehensive packing list and advice for budget backpacking and ultralight travel in Europe — including electronics, clothing, toiletries & accessories.

I wrote this backpacking Europe packing list because packing for travel can often be very difficult—especially for beginners. Many first-time travelers make the mistake of bringing too much gear so travel quickly becomes tiresome. Overpacking can also make you a bigger target for thieves because it’s harder to keep track of your belongings. This packing guide for Europe will help you know what type of clothes and gear you should bring and tips for packing light.

Hey Ladies! Check out our new Backpacking Europe Packing List for Women where I cover women-specific packing suggestions.

This Europe Packing List Includes:

• Quick Tips for Packing Light
• Travel Clothing For Europe
• Travel Accessories and Travel Backpacks For Europe
• Travel Toiletries For Europe
• Travel Electronics for Europe
• What Not to Bring To Europe
• Where to Buy Travel Gear

Quick Tips For Packing Light While Backpacking Europe

First, I suggest  limiting yourself to 20-22 lbs  worth of gear (including your backpack).

If you exceed 22 lbs (10kg), you run the risk of exceeding the carry-on weight limit for budget airlines. Even if weight limits aren’t an issue, I still suggest keeping your weight around 20 lbs for the sake of your back.

Quick Note About Looking Fashionable: I understand that packing light and being fashionable isn’t easy. I’ve written a guide on how to avoid looking like a tourist in Europe to help you dress well while traveling.

Cut The Clothing

Clothing is heavy and most inexperienced travelers bring way too much. There isn’t much difference between packing for two weeks or two months because you can simply do a load of laundry when needed.

• Ensure all your shirts and pants pair well with each other for maximum versatility. Choose dark and neutral colors because they hide dirt/stains better than light colors.
• I prefer dressing in layers if it’s cold. A big bulky coat isn’t practical unless you’re going somewhere extremely cold. A thermal base layer, long-sleeve t-shirt, sweater, and fleece jacket combo is more practical than a big coat. You can always add/subtract layers if needed.  Click here for the Savvy Backpacker guide to keeping warm in the winter.

Cut the Toiletries

Liquids, gels, and creams weigh a lot so packing full-sized bottles of shampoo, body wash, and other personal care items can quickly add multiple pounds to your bag.

I suggest limiting yourself to the basics—you can always buy things as you go.

Cut The Shoes

Many travelers pack multiple pairs of footwear but I suggest limiting yourself to two pairs if packing light is your goal.

Clothing Packing List For Backpacking Europe

Let’s start with clothing since clothes make up a bulk of what’s in your bag.

Travel Socks (5-8 Pairs)

I never skimp on socks when I travel.

Ask any experienced traveler and they’ll tell you the same thing.

I highly suggest spending extra money on quality socks because they’ll help keep your feet dry, odor-free, and blister-free. Unfortunately, nice socks can be expensive but I think they’re 100% worth it—plus, they’ll last for years so you can wear them for a long time.

Experienced travelers recommend quality wool socks—you can get lightweight merino wool socks for the summer and they’ll actually keep your feet cool and dry (heavier-weight socks are better for winter travel).

I overpack when it comes to socks so I’ll bring 6-7 pairs because I like the feeling of wearing a fresh pair every day.

Characteristics Of Quality Socks:

• Moisture-Wicking: Feet sweat and feet sweat a ton when you spend hours walking. Merino wool naturally wicks that moisture away from your feet—which assists in eliminating odor and blisters.
• Fast-Drying: Quick-drying materials can be washed in your sink and they’ll dry in a few hours.
• Odor-Blocking: Quite a few socks have anti-bacterial properties and merino wool does this naturally—even in the summer.
• Cotton Is Bad: Cotton naturally absorbs moisture and holds it close to your skin—which leads to blisters and foul odors.

A quality pair of socks can be worn twice before they start to stink (although you’ll want to rotate the days you wear each pair).

TIP: Switch your socks halfway through the day to keep your feet extra happy.

Recommended Sock Brands:

• Bombas Socks : I’m a huge fan of my Bombas Merino wool socks—I wear them nearly every day (I think I own 10+ pairs). They have a great warranty and I find them well-made.
• SmartWool Socks : SmartWool socks were my first “nice” socks and I’m still a fan.
• Darn Tough Socks : Made in Vermont, this brand of really nice socks will last for years.

Looking for more? Check out our article about our favorite socks for travel . 

Underwear (5-7 pairs)

I typically pack around five to seven pairs of underwear but I might pack a few extras since they don’t add much bulk. I prefer underwear that is made from synthetic materials which are designed to be quick-drying, breathable, and odor-resistant.

Here are some favorites:

• ExOfficio (Synthetic): ExOfficio is the #1 brand of travel underwear—they essentially invented the category. They typically cost around $18 to $25/pair but prices fluctuate. Available on Amazon  and  REI .
• The normal price is $22/pair but they are regularly on sale for around $15. Available at REI .
• Prices vary based on cut/style but you can find them for around $20/pair. Available on Amazon .
• They are a bit pricy at $42/pair but they’re top quality. Available at Wool & Prince .
• They usually run about $25-$30/pair via Amazon

For a more in-depth article about travel underwear, check out  our favorite travel underwear!

Shoes for Traveling Europe

I normally recommend only packing one pair of shoes if you’re traveling light but it is understandable if you want to bring two pairs. Check out my favorite travel shoes for specific recommendations .

You’ll be on your feet for hours at a time while in Europe so you  really  want a sturdy pair of comfortable shoes for sightseeing. These days I opt for supportive and stylish New Balance sneakers (something from their 900-series). But I also like leather sneakers that are comfortable during the day and look nice enough for going out at night. Nike, New Balance, Adidas, and similar companies all make leather sneakers like this.

Some people opt for sturdier “hiking” shoes since they’re usually waterproof and have an all-terrain sole. They’re not super stylish but they are usually pretty comfortable. If you plan on traveling during a rainy time of year, I would suggest this option. On that note, I suggest leaving the hiking boots at home unless you plan on doing some hardcore winter hiking.

Don’t forget a cheap pair of rubber flip-flop sandals if you’re going to stay in a hostel. You’ll want them for the showers. Trust me.

I highly  recommend that you leave your dress shoes at home. While sneakers would probably prevent you from entering any  super   swanky  nightclubs, I doubt most budget backpackers can afford the cover charge + drink prices at those places. And a smart pair of sneakers will get you into most places.

For a more in-depth guide to finding the best shoes, check out our guide to  fashionable and comfortable travel shoes .

Shirts and Tops

Button-up shirts (2-4)

I think long-sleeve button-up shirts are the best option when it comes to shirts (be sure to check out my guide to fashion in Europe for a more in-depth guide on being fashionable while traveling in Europe).

When looking for shirts keep the following things in mind:

• Versatile: Don’t bring fancy dress shirts but a nice casual button-up will work well all day and night. Basically, pick something that will look fine in a church/museum, in a café, and a bar.
• Non-wrinkle: It is hard to keep clothes unwrinkled while traveling so non-wrinkle fabrics are super nice.
• Easy to wash: Stay away from things that you can’t easily wash or that are high maintenance.
• Dark colors : Dark colors do a better job at hiding stains. Plus, most Europeans tend to wear darker colors, so you’ll blend in better with the locals.

Brands & Shirts I Like:

• Bluffworks has a few high-performance travel shirts but they’re a little pricey.
• Uniqlo has a number of cheap but decent-quality shirts.
• The  Outlier NYCO Oxford  ($120) fashionable and functional travel shirts.
• Wool & Prince makes some of my favorite Merino wool button-down shirts and polos in multiple colors—again these are fairly expensive.
• REI has a whole slew of clothes built for travel. Patagonia has a number of nice-looking and high-performance options.

Sweaters (1 or 2)

Lightweight sweaters are nice for dressing up or for cool nights. For maximum versatility, make sure your sweaters and button-up shirts all look good together so you can layer them.

If you’re traveling in the summer, it might be wise to save space by not bringing a sweater.

T-shirts (3 or 4)

While I prefer wearing mostly button-up shirts, I still like wearing T-shirts. They are good for around the hostel, sleeping, wearing under other shirts, and even wearing around town. I usually pack about four solid-color shirts since those are the most versatile.

I usually pack a couple of t-shirts made of lightweight merino wool since wool inhibits odor, resists wrinkles, and dries quickly so they can be worn a few times before needing to be washed. That said, wool T-shirts are expensive so normal cotton shirts are fine.

• Bluffworks has a nice quick-dry Threshold Performance T-Shirt for $45 that’s sweat-wicking and quick-drying. They also have a technical Piton Polo Shirt that’s $68.
• Uniqlo has a bunch of solid-color shirts for under $10. Their “U” line of t-shirts is usually around $15 but they’re made out of nice heavyweight cotton.
• Wool & Prince makes some excellent Merino wool t-shirts and polo shirts that I like. The short-sleeved shirts ($68) long long-sleeved shirts ($84) are expensive but I honestly love the fit and feel. Available at Wool & Prince .
• Unbound makes quality unbranded 100% merino wool t-shirts that come in black, grey, and navy. They cost $65 each — which is fairly affordable when it comes to merino wool. Available at Unbound .

Pants (2 pairs)

I normally only travel with two pairs of pants—usually a pair of dark jeans and a pair of neutral-color pants.

Dark jeans can be dressed up or completely casual—plus, they match everything. 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. Some hardcore travelers don’t wear jeans because they are fairly heavy and take forever to dry. While they’re right, I still think jeans are perfectly fine for European travel.

Also, bring a pair of well-fitting neutral/dark color chinos (lightweight cotton). These look nice if you want to dress them up a bit.

Luckily, these days there are a handful of brands that make travel pants that look fashionable but are still durable. They were fairly expensive but they’re nice to have.

Here are a few recommended travel pants:

• Bluffworks makes solid travel clothing that is both functional and fashionable. They have two main styles of travel pants—the Original ($98) and the Ascender Chinos ($125). Both pants are super tough, breathable, moisture-wicking, wrinkle-resistant, lightweight, and they have hidden security pockets.
• Bluffworks also has a pair of super comfortable Departure Travel Jeans that look nice. They’re also lightweight, stretchy, and have a hidden zippered security pocket.
• Western Rise is another company that makes travel-friendly pants that are durable yet stretch stain-resistant. The AT Slim Rivet Pant is their most popular and they retail for $129.
• Uniqlo has cheap travel pants made from high-tech fabrics. The quality isn’t great but they’re cheap.

Shorts: Traditionally, European adults don’t wear shorts but it is becoming a little more common—especially in Southern Europe. I recommend avoiding khaki cargo shorts and athletic shorts because that’s the stereotypical American tourist outfit.

Swimwear:  If you go to the beach, then you’ll need something to wear.

Jackets and Rainwear

Obviously, whether you take a jacket or not will depend on when and where you travel.

• Fleece Jacket – A nice fleece jacket is great because has a great warmth-to-weight ratio. I suggest getting a black one because it will be the most versatile. Patagonia  has a lot of amazing options.
• The Patagonia Houdini weighs in at a crazy light 3.6oz and can be found online for $99. Available via REI  and  Amazon
• Outdoor Research Helium II is another lightweight rain jacket that only weighs around 6oz. It can be packed down the size of a baseball so it’s a nice summer jacket. It is a little pricy at $140-$170. Available via REI  and  Amazon .
• Helium HD Rain Jacket is quite similar to the popular Helium II but it is just a tad heavier at 9oz (which is still insanely light). Unlike other jackets, it has a few extra features like front pockets & pit zips. It sells for around $200. Available via Amazon .
• The Marmot PreCip Jacket is not the lightest jacket on our list (it still only weighs a respectable 11oz) but a bit more durable than others. Price: $100. Available via REI  and  Amazon .
• The Patagonia Nano Puff (11.9 oz) provides a lot of warmth for a light jacket. It’s also more affordable at $199. Available via  Amazon  and  REI .
• The Mountain Hardware “Ghost Whisper” jacket is only 7.2 oz. It is water-resistant, has pockets, and can often be found for under $180 — so it’s a bit more affordable than similar jackets. Available via Amazon  and  REI .
• Uniqlo sells synthetic down jackets for $60-$70. Don’t expect crazy features or ultra-lightweight, but it’s a good budget-friendly option.

Miscellaneous Items

• Sunglasses – Rayban sunglasses are a very classic choice.
• Scarf – Both men and women wear scarves in the summer and winter.
• Hat and Gloves

TRAVEL ACCESSORIES

Here are a few travel accessories you might want to bring along as you backpack through Europe.

Travel Backpack

Every backpacker needs a quality backpack and I’ve written extensively about my favorite travel backpacks . Here are a few of my top picks:

• Aer Travel Pack 3 Review
• Osprey Farpoint 55 Review and Osprey Farpoint 40 Review
• Cotopaxi Allpa 42 Travel Backpack Review

Packing Cubes

Get yourself some packing cubes because it makes backpack-living much easier. Packing cubes are small, lightweight bags used for packing your clothes into separate compartments. I separate items into different cubes — so I’ll put socks in one, underwear in another, shirts in another, etc.

These things make it easy to access all your clothes without having to rummage through everything. They also help reduce wrinkles and they help compress your clothing so you can fit more stuff into smaller luggage.

Here are a few Of my favorite packing cubes:

• Eagle Creek Pack-It Cubes
• Eagle Creek Spectre Tech Packing Cubes
• eBags Packing Cubes
• AmazonBasics Packing Cubes

Read a more in-depth review of our favorite  packing cubes . 

TRAVEL DAYPACK

Bring a small backpack to haul around small items like your camera, rain jacket, etc. as you’re out for the day. Ideally, your daypack will easily pack into your main luggage during travel days. Here’s a list of my favorite daypacks to give yourself an idea of what to look for in a day pack.

eSIM or SIM CARD FOR FAST AND CHEAP MOBILE DATA

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

For example, an eSIM data plan will cost you about $3/day as opposed to $10-$15/day from your current carrier.

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

TRAVEL TOWEL

A  quick-drying travel towel  is a must because a normal towel takes hours to dry — which is no good when you’re always on the move (i.e. a wet towel shoved into a backpack will make everything smell musty). These travel towels soak up a lot of liquid but air dry in a few hours.

Here are two travel towels I like:

• PackTowl Personal Microfiber Towel
• Biospired Footprint Lightweight Microsuede Towel

SMALL FLASHLIGHT

A small keychain flashlight comes in handy in hostels so you don’t wake up everyone when you need to find something in the dark. They are also nice for navigating dark streets, illuminating your luggage, etc.

My top pick is the Streamlight 73001 Nano Light Miniature Keychain LED Flashlight —this thing is tiny while still giving off lots of light. Honestly, anything from Streamlight is going to be a solid product so check out their page on Amazon .

Jot down phone numbers, directions, addresses, restaurants, spending, etc. in a Moleskine Notebook ,  Field Notes , or  Rhodia notebook. It also makes a nice souvenir after the trip is over.

PADLOCK & RETRACTABLE CABLE LOCK

Keep your stuff safe when you’re staying in hostels. I like the  Master Lock Set-Your-Own-Combination Padlock  because it allows you to set your own combo.

Retractable cable locks  are handy for securing your bag to your bunk or a luggage rack.

TRAVEL SLEEP SHEET

Consider bringing a sleep sheet/sleep sack if you’re worried about the cleanliness of your hostel sheets. The cheapest option is a cotton Sleep Sheet.  Silk Sleep Sacks  are more expensive but they’re lighter, less bulky, and feel great to sleep in.

EARPLUGS & EYE MASK

Sleeping on trains/planes/buses/hostels isn’t always easy so consider packing an  eye mask . Earplugs are nice too (especially if there is someone who snores in your room). These  Mack’s Pillow Soft Silicone Earplugs  are comfortable for sleeping.

WATER BOTTLE

A  basic water bottle  works but flexible water bottles like the  Platypus Soft Bottle  can be rolled up when empty.

TRAVEL UTENSILS

A set of Plastic Travel Utensils is super handy for picnics since most grocery stores don’t provide utensils. I thought this titanium spork was kind of funny.

TOOTHBRUSH COVER

Steripod Clip-on Toothbrush Sanitizer cover works well to keep your brush sanitized by using some voodoo science. Or you can just get a normal toothbrush cover  if that’s how you roll.

DIGITAL LUGGAGE SCALE

A  digital luggage scale  is great for avoiding those costly overweight luggage fees.

PHOTOCOPIES OF IMPORTANT DOCUMENTS

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

ZIPLOC BAGS (MULTIPLE SIZES)

Separate your dirty/wet clothes with Plastic bags. It’s a good idea to put our liquids in a sealable bag in case of a leak. The large 3-gallon bags are nice for keeping your dirty shoes away from your clothes.

One of the best ways to avoid becoming a pickpocketing victim is to wear a  money belt ( learn more about avoiding pickpockets ). I don’t wear one but a lot of people do.

COLLAPSIBLE UMBRELLA

A  travel umbrella  is good in case of rain.

LAUNDRY STUFF

• Sink Stopper:  Pack a simple  Travel Sink Stopper  if you plan on washing clothes in the sink.
• Travel Laundry Soap : Bring some  Woolite Travel Laundry Soap  or  Travelon Laundry Soap Sheets  if you plan on doing laundry while traveling.
• Flexible Travel Clothesline:  A  rubber braided clothesline  is a nice way to air dry anything you need to wash. Additionally, the braided clotheslines are ideal because they don’t require any clothespins — just stick the clothes through the braids.
• Stain Remover:   Tide To Go Stain Remover Pens and individually wrapped Shout Wipes work really well on stains and take up no space in your bag.

LINT ROLLER

Keep your clothes lint-free with a lint roller and stop looking like a slob.

Research the cities you’re going to visit so check out a few  guidebooks . Our favorite publishers are:

• Lonely Planet
• Rick Steves
• Fodor’s

A small  phrasebook  is nice if you want to learn a bit of the local language.

ELECTRONICS PACKING LIST

Technology has changed how we travel so here are a few gadgets to help fuel your addiction to technology.

Quick Note: Europe and North America use different voltages so some American electronics won’t work in Europe. But don’t worry because high-end electronics like laptops, phones, cameras, etc. will all work fine with a plug adapter (see below). I suggest reading our guide to  traveling with electronics  for more in-depth advice about using electronic devices while traveling.

OUTLET PLUG ADAPTERS

Pack a few  outlet plug adapters . Continental Europe uses the same plug except for the UK — technically, Italy and Switzerland use a slightly different plug but the two-prong plugs (like seen above) still work. If you want to be safe you can buy specific adapters for those countries.

This simple set of adapters from  Ceptics  will work fine but you might want a plug adapter with USB plugs since most electronics charge via USB these days.

TRAVEL POWER STRIP

I’ve stayed in plenty of hostels & hotels have limited outlets so a power strip is a worthwhile investment. The Belkin Travel Power Strip with USB ports  is a popular option since it has USB ports but there are plenty of other  travel power strips .

PORTABLE PHONE CHARGER

Google Maps and Instagram will kill your phone battery so pack a portable battery. I use  Anker PowerCore 10000  because it’s tiny and affordable.

TABLET OR LAPTOP

I hate traveling with a laptop but I’m a big fan of traveling with my iPad.

Smartphones have changed travel forever — especially since there are many awesome apps. Here’s a guide to the  best travel apps  if you want to know what I use on the road.

Curious about data plans and using your phone abroad? Check out our guide to using Data Plans and Smartphone Phones Abroad

Having a book to read on those long flights and train rides is great but lugging a heavy book around is a pain. The  Amazon Kindle  is great for those of you who love to read. You can even download a lot of  travel guidebooks .

A pair of noise-canceling headphones are nice for flights and train rides but they’re a little bulky. I really love traveling with my wireless Apple AirPods—check Amazon since they’re often cheaper on sale there.

I also travel with a simple pair of in-ear headphones for airplanes. We’ve written about  our favorite travel headphones but anything will work.

TRAVEL TOILETRIES

Try minimizing the number of toiletries you bring because liquids add a ton of weight. Don’t forget that you can buy pretty much anything once you’re in Europe. Here is a general list of things you might want:

• Shampoo/Conditioner/Body Wash: I pour shampoo and body wash into these leak-proof GoToob travel-sized bottles . If I need more then I’ll buy it in Europe.
• Toothpaste & Toothbrush:  Don’t waste your money on a travel toothbrush — just bring a normal toothbrush and a  toothbrush cover .
• Shaving Stuff (Razors & Cream):  You can find pretty much the exact same products abroad but razors do seem to be a lot more expensive in Europe.
• Deodorant: Deodorant that I buy in Europe never seems to work as well so bring your own.
• Chapstick w/Sunscreen
• Contact Lenses/Solution/Glasses:  Contact solution is actually a pain to buy because it’s normally only sold in pharmacies. Plus it isn’t cheap. I’d recommend bringing your own if you can.
• Condoms:  Some souvenirs are no fun… so it’s better safe than sorry. I’d buy them before you go. Amazon has got you covered.
• Travel Fabric Freshener:  Your clothes will probably smell a bit funky after a while so travel-sized  Febreze To Go  is a good way to stay a little fresher.
• Travel Toilet Paper: Play it safe and pack some travel toilet paper in your daypack.
• Wet Wipes/Baby Wipes:  These are a lifesaver when you actually need them.  Cottonelle Fresh Flushable Wipes  are individually wrapped.
• Hand Sanitizer:  You’ll be touching so much dirty stuff all day, and you don’t want to get sick as you’re traveling.
• Body Powder:  Stop chafing caused by all that walking — especially if it is really hot. Anti Monkey Butt  is our favorite.
• Foot Cream:  Pamper your feet with O’Keeffe’s Healthy Feet Cream .
• Pepto Tablets:  Be sure to pack some Pepto-Bismol tablets for all that questionable street food.
• Band-Aids: Heal/prevent those blisters with Band-Aids for feet .
• Pain Medicine: Over-the-counter pain medicine (even basic stuff like Tylenol) is only from a pharmacy in Europe. This isn’t a big problem but it’s nice to have a few pills on hand.
• Prescription Drugs:  Ensure you have the original bottle/box in case you’re asked to prove the medicine is yours. Make sure you have enough medicine to cover your entire trip since it might be hard to get any refills.

TRAVEL INSURANCE

Travel insurance can be a great investment if you run into any trouble on the road because it helps cover your travel gear, flights, accommodation, rail passes, medical emergencies, and more. I use  World Nomads  but here is a  guide to buying travel insurance if you want to know what to look for when buying travel insurance.

Stuff You Don’t Need

There are a lot of things geared toward travelers that you probably won’t need if you’re traveling through Europe.

• Sleeping Bag : Sleeping bags aren’t needed unless you are camping or sleeping on someone’s floor.
• Sleeping Pad : Again, unless you’re camping or sleeping on the ground, you won’t need a sleeping pad.
• Water Filter : Europe has clean water so no need for a portable filter.
• Books : Books are bulky and heavy. Many hostels have a collection of books, and you’re normally free to swap. Travelers also swap books with each other.
• Beach Towel : Normal cotton towels take forever to dry and take up a lot of room. If you do bring one, make sure it is dry before you put it in your backpack because a damp towel will make everything in your bag smell really musty. I recommend a quick-drying travel towel .
• Hiking/Backpacking Food : There is no need for prepackaged travel meals. However, I throw in a couple of RX or Cliff bars just in case I get hungry while on the go.

WHERE TO BUY TRAVEL GEAR

There are so many places to buy all your travel gear so I wanted to put together a list of places to check out.

• Amazon seems to have just about everything and the prices tend to be pretty good.
• Zappos  has much more than just shoes — they also sell a pretty good selection of travel gear like clothes, jackets, socks, and backpacks. 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  is one of the largest outdoor retailers and they have a ton of travel gear. A lot of their stuff is more “outdoorsy” but they’re good for things like backpacks, socks, underwear, etc.
• Bluffworks sells travel clothing that actually looks like normal, fashionable clothes.
• Uniqlo is the king of cheap but fairly decent high-tech travel clothing.

More Packing Tips For Europe

Here are some more helpful packing articles that I’ve written:

• The Best Travel Shoes
• The Best Travel Backpacks
• The Best Travel Pants For Men
• Winter Packing List for Europe
• Best Waterproof Boots for Men
• Recent Posts
• The Best Travel Backpacks | In-Depth Buyer’s Guide & Backpack Reviews - April 28, 2024
• Best Prepaid UK eSIM | Data Plan Buyer’s Guide - April 21, 2024
• How to Avoid Pickpockets in Europe — Tips for Outsmarting the Thieves - April 19, 2024

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Thanks For Reading! — James

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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. Europe eSIM Data Service (Avoid Roaming Fees!)

We used to purchase a physical SIM card for every trip and location, but this is an antiquated solution to a modern problem. Some airport and street vendors will sell you a janky card that won’t even work, and collecting plastic is a hassle that can be remedied by a 100% digital approach.

Saily offers a worldwide eSIM service that offers data wherever you may roam! They are setting a new standard for international internet use – some of our favorite perks are customizable data options based on your specific trip, lower roaming rates, fewer cybersecurity risks, and less waste. Not to mention, you can easily switch carriers by scanning a QR code from your phone, which is perfect if you plan to gallivant around Europe or change locations a few times.

Pick a data plan at Saily.com ➜

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

Backpacking Europe Packing List & Pre-Trip Checklist

Last Updated on December 11, 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.

Your flight is booked, you’ve secured your first few night’s accommodation, and you’ve had “going away drinks” with friends. You’re nearly ready to embark upon your European adventure, but you still haven’t packed your bag! Figuring out the perfect Backpacking Europe packing list can be a daunting task, but luckily I have been there before and can offer sage words of advice to guide you through this stressful time!

Table of Contents

Checklist Before You Start Packing

Before you start thinking about what items to include on your packing list, it’s worth taking time to make sure you’ve got all the crucial components of your trip organised. It’s worth taking care of these items at least 1-2 months before you depart to ensure you have everything organised in time!

Have a Rough Route & Budget

It’s worth picking out a few must-sees for your trip and then determining a rough route around those destinations. There’s no need to over-plan your route as you’ll undoubtedly want some flexibility when you finally arrive in Europe.

However, if you want to visit a popular festival or city that is known for getting a lot of tourists in high season then it’s worth planning that well in advance.

Once you have a rough route in mind, this will help determine what daily budget you need. An average daily budget for backpacking Europe is around €42 – 105/day.

This will cover you for most places in Central and Eastern Europe, however, you can expect to pay more in Western European countries and less in the some of the more affordable countries in the East.

This daily budget will cover you for a dorm in a hostel, cheap meals (with the occasional splurge meal), transportation and one or two activities per day.

In addition to your daily budget, you need to make sure you have enough funds to cover pre-trip expenses such as flights, gear and travel insurance.

Organise Your Transport

Hopefully, by the time you’re thinking of packing, you’ve already got flights booked to Europe. If not, it’s worth taking the time to play around on Skyscanner to find deals on flights to Europe.

You also need to consider, how you will get around Europe when you land. If you plan to make use of the extensive rail network, it can be worth booking some popular trains in advance (particularly in summer!) as you will get cheaper rates and there will be a lot more availability.

Finally, if you’re planning on using the train extensively over a short period of time, a Eurail or Interrail pass can be incredibly good value.

If you’re living outside of Europe, you can browse Eurail passes . Alternatively, if you’re based in Europe, browse Interrail passes.

Choose the Right Debit or Credit Card

What is the right debit or credit card you might ask? The ones with no foreign transaction fees!

The last thing you want to be doing on your backpacking Europe trip is giving away part of your daily budget to the banks!

Applying for a debit or credit card without foreign transaction fees will mean you won’t get charged extra each time you withdraw money which can save a lot over the course of a few months backpacking.

It’s worth making sure you do this as soon as possible as it can sometimes take a little while for banks to approve your application.

Consider Travel Insurance

For many backpacking trips, we have used World Nomads . They offer flexible and simple travel insurance policies with coverage for more than 150 activities that you can buy or extend while on the road.

An alternative option is SafetyWing which offers travel medical insurance policies.

Book a Night or Two or Accommodation

After getting off a long flight and being jetlagged, the last thing you want to be doing is walking aimlessly around a new city trying to find somewhere to stay. Book your first few nights in a hostel and have the comfort of knowing that you have somewhere to stay when you get off the plane!

Alternatively, if you prefer a bit of privacy for a couple of nights to recover from jetlag, booking a private room in an Airbnb can be a good option to start your trip to Europe.

Top Things To Consider When Packing for Backpacking Europe

Choosing a travel backpack.

One of the biggest tips I or anyone else could give when you’re assembling your packing list for backpacking Europe is to make sure you travel light.

There is nothing more uncomfortable than having to lug an outrageously heavy backpack through winding European streets, which is why I would suggest that you aim to keep the weight of your bag under 15 kilos (33 pounds), and ideally under 10 kilos (22 pounds).

It is also more convenient to have lighter luggage when you are moving between cities. Obviously, you need to be conscious of weight when you are flying as anything over 20 kilos (44 pounds) in order to avoid exorbitant extra fees.

However, though it is highly unlikely you will be financially penalised for it, it is so much easier to have lighter luggage when you are on ground transport, as well. If your bag is very heavy, you’re going to have a lot of trouble hoisting it onto luggage racks or carrying it up or down a flight of stairs.

The second thing you need to consider is the actual bag you plan to take. It can be really confusing as there are seemingly endless options.

I would suggest you try to keep the main bag under 50 litres, mainly because it both prevents overpacking and also because a smaller backpack is a lot easier to manoeuvre.

You want to look for luggage — whether you are planning of going for a backpack, wheeled backpack, or even a traditional suitcase — that is durable and can withstand a fair amount of wear and tear.

Constant packing and unpacking and lugging through city streets and on and off transport can do a considerable amount of damage to luggage and you are going to want to buy something that can withstand that for many trips to come.

Personally, I use the Osprey Farpoint 55 (also available on REI here or direct from Osprey here ). The main pack itself is 40 litres and it also comes with a 15-litre detachable daypack. It is incredibly well-made and also comes with a lifetime warranty.

It’s come with me on many a trip and I’ve yet to come up with any complaints. Michael uses the Osprey Farpoint 70 over the Farpoint 55 which is slightly bigger but essentially the same backpack. 

If you’re looking for more stylish options for your European backpack , then other options include Peak Design which can be used as carry-on luggage or the Osprey Farpoint Wheels (also available on REI here or direct from Osprey here ) which is a great choice if you’re after a wheeled backpack.

Organising Your Gear

The third thing to consider is how you actually pack your backpack. There are a number of techniques you can use in order to maximise the space in your bag, from rolling your clothes to stuffing your socks and undies in your shoes.

However, I’ve found that the best way to keep organised and to save space in my backpack is to use packing cubes.

Both Michael and I use Eagle Creek compression packing cubes (also available direct from Eagle Creek here ) and don’t have enough good things to say about them. They’re super lightweight and really durable and well-made.

Honestly, they’ll just completely change the way you pack and I don’t know what I’d do without them.

Decide Which Electronics You Need

Before you start packing, it’s worth thinking about which electronics you need with you in Europe. Unless you’re working online there’s little point lugging around a large laptop during your backpacking Europe trip and it’s best to pack light.

However, you might still be keen on having something to browse the web, upload photos or chat with friends back home. In this case, a lightweight tablet like the Amazon Fire Tablet might be a good option.

This is a good option if you plan to access WiFi on your trip, just make sure you have a subscription to reliable VPN such as ExpressVPN before you leave!

Another electronic item that I specifically bought for my travels was a Kindle Paperwhite . If you like to read while travelling but want to reduce weight in your bag then this is a must!

Finally, make sure you have a camera so you can document some of the amazing memories you will undoubtedly have.

If you’re not into photography, then the camera you have on your smartphone is likely to be sufficient. If you want to get more professional with your snaps, then I recommend the Sony A6400 .

It’s a mirrorless camera, lightweight and a good mid-range camera if you want to learn more about photography. There are also a number of fantastic travel lenses for Sony A6400 cameras available on the market.

Backpacking Europe Packing List

The packing list for Backpacking Europe below is a variation of what I brought for three months travelling through the Balkans and Eastern Europe , but could just as easily last you two weeks to six or more months. It also can be used in any season, with some variations.

The biggest tip I could give when you’re wondering what clothing to bring is to only pack versatile, neutral-coloured clothing that can be mixed and matched with most things you’ve included in your backpack. 

Basically, don’t bring anything that only goes with one other thing. You’ll regret it and, honestly, you might even end up dumping it along the way.

• Depending on the season you are travelling, I recommend taking a mix of short and long-sleeved t-shirts. Obviously, in summer you should take more short-sleeved and in winter increase the number of long-sleeved!
• These long-sleeved t-shirts ( men’s click here ) make a great base layer in the colder months and will keep you nice and toasty!
• These fleece sweaters will keep you WAY warmer than cotton and stays warm even when wet. Great to have if you’re travelling outside of summer or plan on going hiking
• I would also recommend bringing a sweater that can be dressed up, so you can look nice even when it’s chilly outside.
• They’re super warm, durable, lightweight, pack down very small and are quite affordable. I really can’t say enough good things about these jackets.
• I like this North Face jacket. It’s lightweight, durable, and keeps you dry above anything else. It’s also great for layering on top of a jacket and a sweater to keep you extra warm.
• One pair of jeans, I like darker jeans that I can easily dress up or down depending on the circumstance
• One pair for hiking/walking pants/trousers or another pair of jeans or chinos if you don’t plan to be that active
• You can browse some great options in our best travel pants in Europe guide.
• Leggings/thermal pants are great if you’re travelling in winter for an extra layer under your jeans .
• I also wear leggings when hiking and opt to bring two pairs of jeans rather than a dedicated hiking/exercise pant. Basically, leggings are super versatile and should definitely be on your list.
• For late spring, summer, and early autumn. If you’re travelling outside of these seasons, then don’t bother bringing them. It will be too chilly and they’ll just take up unnecessary space.
• For nicer restaurants/going out
• Collared shirt for men, dress/skirt/nice pants for women (or whatever is a little bit nicer than your typical backpacker wear and makes you feel comfortable)
• Bluffworks has a great range of nicer clothes that are still practical for travel – you can read more about them here.
• How many pairs you bring really depends on how often you want to do laundry!
• If travelling in winter, make sure to bring a couple of pairs of thermal underwear  ( men’s click here )
• Again, this really depends on your typical laundry habits.
• If travelling in winter, make sure to pack some thick wool socks  ( men’s click here )
• Good as a base layer in the winter or chilly autumn days, or as a top when it’s hot outside
• One regular, one sport — obviously for women
• I’ve also noticed a lot of men (Michael included) tend to wear just a comfortable shirt over underwear
• If you’re travelling in summer and planning on swimming a lot, I like to pack two just in case one hasn’t dried when I have to pack up to avoid a mildew situation
• I also tend to bring a swimsuit even if I’m travelling to a colder climate. You never know when you might need it!

When packing for backpacking Europe, one of the most important things to do is ensure you have comfortable shoes to walk in. After all, you will probably be spending a lot of time on your feet!

The most important thing to do is to make sure you plan appropriate footwear for the activities you plan on doing and the season you are travelling in.

I’ve listed the shoes that I always recommend taking below. I have also written a detailed guide for choosing the best shoes if you want some more advice!

• For autumn and winter or if you plan to do a fair amount of hiking.
• They are also available on REI for women here or for men here
• If you’re travelling in summer and don’t plan to do any hiking or outdoor activities, then don’t bother to bring these
• Nice trainers or other comfortable & breathable shoes for traipsing city streets
• For the beach and grubby hostel showers — no one wants athlete’s foot ruining their travels!
• For spring and summer, I like Birkenstocks (also available on REI here ). I know they’re a bit geeky, but I never have sore feet even if I’ve been walking all day in them. Also, the arch support is out of this world.
• For women wanting a nicer shoe, there are a number of foldable ballet flats on the market that can make your outfit look nicer without taking up a bunch of space .
• I tend not to bring these, however, some might want a nicer shoe .

Need your gear in a hurry? Sign up to a  FREE 30-day trial with Amazon Prime  and get fast shipping for your items!

Electronics To Pack

The number and type of electronics you take with you depends on your planned usage and whether you need to do any work on the road.

As we work when travelling we tend to pack additional electronics, however, if travelling purely for the sake of travelling, then you should consider carefully what you actually need and plan on using.

• Michael is the photographer among us and he travels with a Son y A6400 . It’s a mirrorless camera that is lightweight and a good entry-level camera for budding photographers.
• Bring an extra battery and SD card for your camera. You don’t want to be short of power outlets or storage space and not be able to photograph something amazing.
• He also travels with a Joby GorillaPod Kit which is a fantastic lightweight tripod.
• I never thought I would be able to give up paper books, but I’ve found an e-reader is essential for a traveller who likes to read!
• Michael and I both love our Paperwhite Kindles – particularly the inbuilt backlights which are great for hostels without bedside lamps!
• If you’re not working online then we recommend bringing a lightweight tablet (such as the Amazon Fire Tablet ) or simply leaving the electronics at home! 
• As I work online, I travel with my Dell XPS 13 and think it’s the best lightweight laptop on the market!
• I love this adaptor as it works in all countries and contains two USB ports meaning you can charge multiple electronics overnight!
• I like in-ear, noise-cancelling headphones because they take up less space.
• For charging your electronics when there are no power outlets!
• Various electronics chargers
• For playing games with friends, you make on the road!

Travel Accessories

• Like I mentioned earlier, these are invaluable on any trip and will make your life so much easier.
• If you prefer to travel with a more stylish purse for walking around cities then I recommend purchasing an anti-theft travel purse from Pacsafe.
• Check out our detailed guide to the best purse for Europe for more tips on choosing a great travel purse
• These towels pack down small and are super light-weight and quick drying. A lot of hostels, especially in western Europe, don’t provide towels so one of these can be invaluable. 
• I recommend buying a prepaid SIM card before leaving home to ensure you have data access as soon as you arrive
• Check out our detailed guide to the best international SIM card for Europe with data for more tips!
• Because you don’t want the snorer or to impede your sleep in a hostel dorm!
• For the times when the drunk asshole leaves the lights on at 3 AM.
• Great for both securing your luggage and for a hostel locker.
• Great for locking your bag to a stationary object (i.e. your hostel bunk!)
• So you can keep exploring in the rain!
• There are plenty of water taps around Europe to fill up your bottle
• For writing a journal or your new friends’ contacts details!
• While many people opt for a swiss army knife, I personally like the Leatherman Wave . It’s an all-purpose tool that includes both a serrated and regular knife, a saw (perfect for hacking through baguettes when you’re picnicking!), a bottle opener, pliers, and screwdrivers.
• I recommend including some basic medicines such as paracetamol/Tylenol and cold & flu tablets
• A useful accessory for all seasons!
• For winter and chilly autumn evenings
• Winter and autumn

There is no need to overpack on toiletries when travelling to Europe. You can find a pharmacy almost anywhere and chances are if you’ve forgotten something, you’ll be able to find it quite easily.

• If you’re travelling for a shorter period of time or packing only for carry-on, I would recommend getting refillable shampoo bottles rather than wasting money on travel sized bottles.
• Hairbrush/Comb
• Women’s Razor/ Men’s Shaver
• Hand sanitizer
• Contact lenses
• For some reason, in a lot of places in Europe you can only purchase this in optical shops. So if you wear contact lenses, sometimes it can be hard to find solution if you forget it. 
• Because it’s better to be prepared!

While it may not seem like much, this packing list for Europe should be enough to sustain you through any long-term trip!

Obviously, there is always room for flexibility when packing for your backpacking adventure. However, I would always advise packing on the lighter side and trying to avoid letting your pack weigh over 15 kilos. This is altogether just more comfortable. 

Remember as well, that if you forget anything you are almost always able to purchase it on the road, often at a cheaper price than at home!

Checklist After Packing

Once you’ve packed your bag for Europe, make sure you have a bit of time left over to take care of these things to make your life easier once you land in Europe!

Call your bank

Remember that new debit card you got a few months ago with no foreign transaction fees? Before using it in a new country, make sure your bank knows about it! Give your bank a call and let them know what countries you’re planning on travelling to so they don’t flag any of your transactions as suspicious and cancel your card while you’re overseas!

Get some local currency

It’s worth trying to get enough local currency to last you a day or two for when your first arrive. While it is usually possible to withdraw money from an ATM in the airport, there is always the chance that the ATM doesn’t work or you have an issue with your bank card. By having a bit of local currency you can be comfortable in knowing that you have enough money to at least get to your accommodation!

Work out your airport transfer

Speaking of getting to your accommodation, take the time to research the best way to get from the airport to wherever you’re staying. Whether it’s public transport, an airport shuttle bus or an Uber – having these details sorted will mean you don’t encounter any unnecessary stress when you first arrive in a new country.

Make copies of important documents

Your passport and bank cards. If something happens and you lose these, you want to easily have their details on hand so you can cancel them. Make some copies, upload them to your e-mail and send them to a family member or friend so you can easily retrieve them.

Are you wondering what to pack for Europe? Anything that you can’t travel without? Let us know in the comments!

Related Posts:

The Best Travel Pants for Europe (Winter or Summer!)

The Best VPN For Travel to Europe

Bluffworks Review: Stylish Clothes for Travel

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

I’m planning on a month long backpacking trip and was wondering if you were able to take your osprey backpack as a carry on or if you checked it then brought another bag as a carry on? Just not sure if I should check my big backpack and bring a smaller one as a carry on/purse.

Hi Joann, thanks for your comment! It depends on what size of backpack you have. The Osprey Farpoint 40 satisfies most airlines’ requirements for carry-on but none of the other models do, so they will have to be checked, unfortunately.

Hi! This is a great article! I’m trying to plan a backpacking trip for Europe soon. I was wondering if I would need to bring or am allowed to bring like, dry food and small dry snacks to help save money on some days. Thanks!

Hi Chole, if you’re really travelling on a shoestring budget and want to make your money stretch as far as it can, then it could be helpful to bring those things with you. However, this isn’t something I’ve ever done (I normally just stick to shopping in local supermarkets and cooking my own meals rather than adding extra weight to my bag).

hi there. super helpful for packing wise. but I’m curious about accommodations. I will be doing my first back pack trip alone for three weeks in about a month. should I book all my hostels before I go or just book as I go along as I’m still unsure exactly my route of where I will be headed! any advice will help thanks x

Hey Carly, glad you found the packing list helpful! As for booking accommodation, if you want to be flexible and just go where the road takes you, I don’t think it’s necessary to book everything for your entire trip in advance. I, personally, like to make sure I have at least my first few nights of accommodation booked and then I tend to go from there. Especially if you’re staying in hostel dorms or going to places with ample accommodation choices, there isn’t much of a need to book more than a week out, I would say. Obviously, this depends on where you are visiting and the popularity of the destination — but this is a general rule of thumb. Hope you have a great trip!

hey! this list is super helpful thanks 🙂

whats your opinion on rainboots? tbh I hate rain and have been to EU several times, but never backpacked, so not used to the volume/wt constrictions.

Hi Priya, thanks for your comment and I’m glad you’ve found the list helpful! Personally, I’ve never found rainboots to be necessary, especially if you’re trying to pack. I always tend to bring a pair of waterproof hiking boots and that has never led me astray (I’ve actually never even owned a pair of rainboots!). Hope this helps 🙂

I just tripped on this site. My daughter left today for her first backpack trip in Europe. She did a ton of research and was delighted that you gave so much “no nonsense” advice. Thank you so much for putting your advice out there!!

Thanks for the comment, Lysa! I hope your daughter has a wonderful time backpacking in Europe and I am glad that we were able to help her plan for it 🙂 Cheers!

I am so happy to have happened upon this site.

We’re happy you found us! Hope this packing list has helped! 🙂

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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

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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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10+ Europe Travel Essentials: Must-Haves for Your Trip

E mbarking on a European adventure in 2023 or 2024? Are you curious about what Europe travel essentials you should pack? Well, our family just returned home from a two-and-a-half-week trip to Europe. We spent time in Paris,  Brussels , Bruges, Amsterdam, Bath, and London, which was incredible.

I am excited to share our adventures in several blogs and Instagram posts in the coming weeks. Follow along here at  OurLittleLifestyle.com  and on social media for all the photos and fun details.

And I am seeing more and more people on their Bucket List Europe trips this year! Do you remember how I predicted this in my  2023 travel predictions blog post ?

So, if you are one of those planning or considering planning a trip overseas for your family, you have come to the right place! 

Preparing For Your Trip To Europe

Things went incredibly smoothly on this trip. We didn’t encounter any delays or travel-related issues. I credit that to some simple planning and preparation. Before sharing our adventures, including everywhere we stayed and everything we did, I want to share a handful of items essential to a successful European vacation.

There is a lot to consider when packing for a three-week  trip to Europe . Today, I want to share some of my travel tips and part of my Europe packing list. In addition, you will also need basic  luggage !

Europe Travel Essentials:  Must Haves For Your Trip to Europe 

I want to stress the importance of having the necessary essentials to make your trip hassle-free and enjoyable. In this blog post, we will explore the top Europe travel essentials you must pack to ensure your family can make the most of your trip. From electrical converters to Apple Pay, I’ve got you covered.

Here are nine items that you should not go to Europe without in 2023 /2024!

Portable Charger

A reliable  portable charger  is one of the most important items to have with you in Europe. With all the photos, maps, and navigation tools you’ll be using on your smartphone, keeping your devices fully charged throughout the day is essential.

And as I will mention in just a while, almost everywhere uses Apple Pay. You will want your phone usable at all times. And trust me, you don’t want to miss capturing those stunning European moments due to a dead battery.

Opt for a high-capacity portable charger that can provide multiple charges and has compatibility with your device. Make sure it can fit in your bag or purse. My family uses this  Anker Slim Powerbank , which I highly recommend.  

If you want a more slimmed-down version, try this  credit card-size portable charger . However, having one great charger that can power up multiple devices, such as the one we have, can be overall easier than everyone having their own to keep track of while out and about.  

We have these  mini usb cords  on hand to use with ours. Another option is to buy a  portable charger with built-in charging cables . 

Travel Wallet

Ok, this is neither fashionable nor sexy, but hear me out. A dedicated travel wallet will make your life so much easier. We use the  ZOPPEN RFID Travel Passport Wallet & Documents Organizer Zipper Case with Removable Wristlet Strap , and it is where we store our passports, vaccine cards, travel insurance documents, travel-related credit cards, foreign currency, and important documents at all times.

And I must mention that it is the perfect place for my Southwest Airlines drink vouchers. Because until now, I only had them when I needed them! 

I always keep this somewhere safe, like the back zippered pocket of my  Way B Ready to Roam backpack , which I never travel without. Using a travel wallet helps me keep our travel documents organized and easily accessible.

Look for a wallet like the  one we have , with RFID-blocking technology to safeguard your cards from unauthorized scanning, providing an extra layer of security against potential digital theft.

I want to add that you should also have digital copies of your passports. Before your trip, please take a minute and scan each passport into your phone or simply take a photo of it. If you ever lose a passport or find yourself in an emergency, this will be very helpful to have at your fingertips.

Electric Converter

Europe operates on a different electrical system than many other regions, so packing an  electric converter  is vital if you want to do anything beyond just charging a mobile device. A converter is different than a simple European plug-in. This device allows you to safely plug in and charge your electronic devices, regardless of the voltage differences.  

We learned this the hard way after not purchasing one before our family trip to Greece last November. We lost our favorite  CHI hair straighter  after it melted. Luckily, the smell of melting plastic made us aware that our daughter had plugged it in downstairs. 

Ensure you choose a converter that covers many plug types commonly found across Europe. We purchased the  ALLWEI International Travel Adapter  for our recent Europe trip, which worked perfectly. I liked how there were numerous plug-in types on the device and for the device itself since the UK uses a different type of plug than the rest of Europe.  

European Plug-Ins

Besides an electric converter, a set of  European plug adapters  is necessary. Europe uses various plug types, such as Type C, Type E, and Type F. Carry a set of adapters to ensure you can plug in your devices and charge them seamlessly regardless of your destination. Adapters are small and lightweight, making them easy to slip into your luggage or day bag.

We have several  TESSAN European Travel Plug adapters , which worked great for us in Greece, France, Belgium, and the Netherlands. But always double-check which type of plug is used in the country or countries that you are visiting. For example, France, Belgium, and the Netherlands used the  Type C plug  on our recent trip, but when we went to England, we had to use the  Type G plug . We didn’t buy an extra set and just used the converter mentioned above for everything since it had a Type G adaptor.

Cross Body Bag 

You do not need a large or oversized purse when traveling in Europe. A  cross-body bag  or a fanny pack is an excellent choice for your European journey. It offers both convenience and security, allowing you to keep your essentials close at hand while keeping your hands free to explore. Look for a bag with multiple compartments, sturdy zippers, and an adjustable strap for a comfortable fit like  these .

An added bonus would be a waterproof bag to wash after your trip, such as the  Lululemon Belt Bags . I have found myself using a small cross-body purse daily these days. It’s so nice not to be bogged down with a bunch of extras when out and about. If you want to invest in a luxury bag for both everyday and travel, the  Saint Laurent Lou Mini Quilted Leather Camera Bag  is one of my favorites! 

I was very surprised to see that Apple Pay was the preferred payment method almost everywhere we went in Europe. We even used it to board the local transportation trams and trains in most places, including  Amsterdam . 

In recent years, contactless payments have become increasingly popular across Europe. Apple Pay can be a lifesaver when you want to make quick and secure transactions without worrying about carrying cash or dealing with foreign currency. Before your trip, make sure that you are comfortable using Apple Pay and set it up on your phone for easy and hassle-free Visa, MasterCard, and American Express payments.

Also, do some advanced research, determine which of your credit cards do not charge foreign translation fees, and always use those. And when given a choice, always process the transaction in the local currency and not USD to save a little money on the conversion.  

We do make sure to bring some foreign currency along with us and like to order it in advance through our bank, Bank of America. It is delivered in a day or two, and the conversion rates are usually the best you’ll get.

Packable Jacket 

Unless you are 100% certain you will not need one, a packable, lightweight puffer jacket is a smart buy. I have the  Pack it Down jacket from Lululemon , but we have also bought the  Amazon Essentials coats . And Abby’s is just a basic one from TJMaxx.

We used these throughout our November visit to Greece and brought them to Europe this summer. They came in handy on a few chilly mornings and doubled as pillows on long-haul flights. Make sure to buy one with a hood for rainy days! 

Comfortable Tennis Shoes

Many of you are shocked when I mention on social media that we only use carry-ons when we travel! One of the secrets to doing this boils down to shoes. Having a  great pair of tennis shoes  for day-to-day wear and a cute pair of  neutral flat sandals for everything else  would be best. Packing bulky shoes like wedges and boots not only consumes quite a bit of your luggage space, but you will likely not even wear them. 

Plus, Europe is known for its charming cobblestone streets and extensive walking tours. We walked over 15,000 steps most days on our recent trip. To ensure your feet stay happy throughout your journey, invest in a comfortable pair of tennis shoes and make sure to break them in before your trip. Opt for lightweight, breathable options that provide excellent support and cushioning. I love wearing my  On Cloud tennis shoes  when traveling. 

And one not too glamorous thing to point out is that the streets can be very dirty in these big cities, especially after some rain. So, leave the fancy shoes at home. 

Packing Cubes

This is one of those “once you know, you know” things.   Color-coded packing cubes  make it easy to pack and unpack while on the go in Europe. We use  these exact ones , and everyone gets a color. This allows me to combine suitcases along the way yet still keep everyone’s clothing organized.

I have recently discovered these  compression packing cubes  and plan to invest in those in the future. 

Laundry Bag 

I always travel with two  portable laundry bags . It keeps dirty clothes separate from clean ones and makes it easy to transport items to a laundromat if you want to do a mid-trip load. As we moved from city to city on our last trip, we merged our packing cubes of clean clothes into fewer suitcases while stuffing our dirty laundry into the others. 

Additional Europe Travel Essentials

While the abovementioned essentials cover the basic needs for a trip to Europe, every traveler has unique requirements. Depending on where your travels take you, consider packing a few extra items like a  compact umbrella , a versatile scarf, a universal travel adapter,  microfiber beach towels , a reusable water bottle to save money with tap water, and a  small first aid kit .

I also put a small roll of 3-4 trash bags in my bag as well. I typically use these for wet swimsuits between stops and to put dirty shoes in between cities.

Considering and packing some of these extras can enhance your travel experience and prepare you for unexpected situations.

Below, I made a printable checklist for you with a couple of extra slots for these items!

What Shouldn’t You Bring On Your Trip to Europe

It can be tempting to pack everything under the sun, but remember that there are many things you can buy while overseas, such as toiletries, especially when visiting big cities.  

What is not a Europe Travel Essential?

When embarking on a trip to Europe, it’s important to pack smart and avoid carrying unnecessary items that could weigh you down or hinder your travel experience. Here are a few things you should consider leaving behind:

Don’t Bring Bulky Guidebooks : While guidebooks can be informative, carrying heavy guidebooks can become burdensome. Instead, opt for digital travel resources or lightweight, pocket-sized guides that provide essential information.

Leave Excessive Valuables at Home : Avoid bringing expensive jewelry, unnecessary electronics, or flashy accessories that may attract unwanted attention. It’s best to leave valuable items at home to minimize the risk of loss or theft.

You Don’t Need   Multiple Pairs of Shoes:  While comfortable shoes are essential, packing an excessive number of footwear options can take up precious space in your luggage. Stick to versatile and comfortable shoes suitable for various activities and occasions. Two or three pairs are enough!

Ditch the   Full-Sized Toiletries : Travel-sized toiletries are your best friend when saving space and adhering to airport security regulations. Leave behind full-sized bottles of shampoo, conditioner, and other toiletries, opting for travel-sized alternatives or just purchasing them upon arrival.

Skip the   Bulky Towels and Blankets:  Most European accommodations provide towels for guests, so there’s no need to pack large, bulky towels. Instead, carry a lightweight, quick-drying microfiber towel that takes up minimal space in your luggage. And, on pretty much every long-haul flight, the airline provides guests with a small pillow and blanket to use.

Avoid Packing Excessive Clothing:  Resist the urge to overpack. Europe offers numerous laundry facilities and services, allowing you to refresh your wardrobe during your trip. Pack versatile clothing items that can be mixed and matched to create different outfits, minimizing the number of clothes you need to bring.

Remember, traveling light and efficiently can enhance mobility and enjoyment of your European adventure. Focus on essentials and prioritize comfort, flexibility, and convenience when deciding what to bring along.

Grab these Europe Travel Essentials and  Enjoy Your Trip

Don’t overthink, and don’t stress while preparing for your trip to Europe! But by packing these European  travel  essentials, you’ll be well-equipped to make the most of your journey and avoid any unexpected surprises in European countries. 

Bon voyage, and enjoy the trip of a lifetime! 

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Packing Like a Pro: 16 Travel Must-Haves for Any Trip

Get ready to upgrade your packing skills with insider tips. Discover the art of efficient packing, where every bit of space counts and every item has a job to do. Learn clever techniques to turn your suitcase into a smooth-operating system, perfect for any adventure.

Nikki Brooks

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Embarking on a journey, whether it’s a weekend getaway or a month-long adventure, requires thoughtful planning . The key to stress-free travel starts with a well-packed suitcase. But with limited space and countless essentials to consider, how do you ensure you have everything you need without overpacking? Fear not! We’ve compiled a comprehensive list of travel must-haves inspired by the advice from frequent travelers to help you with the things to pack for a trip and still have space for souvenirs when you return.

Versatile Clothing

Building a versatile wardrobe is essential for any traveler. Opt for mix-and-match pieces that can be dressed up or down, such as a classic pair of jeans, a neutral-colored cardigan, and a versatile dress or two. Don’t forget to check the weather forecast and pack accordingly.

Travel-Friendly Toiletries

Minimize the hassle of airport security checks by investing in travel-sized toiletries or transferring your favorite products into travel-friendly containers. Essentials include toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, body wash, moisturizer, and sunscreen. Keep them organized in a clear, resealable bag for easy access.

Travel Documents and Essentials

A well-organized travel wallet is a lifesaver. Keep your passport, boarding passes, itinerary, travel insurance documents, and any necessary visas in one secure place. Additionally, don’t forget to pack a portable charger, adapter plugs, and a copy of important contacts.

Quality Luggage

Invest in durable luggage that suits your travel needs. Whether you prefer a hard-shell suitcase with built-in locks or a lightweight backpack with multiple compartments, choose a style that offers both functionality and durability. You may consider some of the best luggage brands that are Samsonite , Travelpro , or Away for reliable options.

Comfortable Footwear

Whether you’re exploring cobblestone streets or trekking through nature, comfortable footwear is a must. Pack a pair of versatile shoes that are suitable for both walking and casual outings. Sneakers, sandals, or lightweight hiking boots are excellent choices depending on your destination and activities.

Travel-Friendly Tech

In today’s digital age, staying connected is essential. Pack your smartphone, tablet, or laptop along with their chargers and any necessary accessories. Consider investing in a portable power bank to keep your devices charged on-the-go.

First Aid Kit

Be prepared for minor emergencies by packing a compact first aid kit. Include essentials such as adhesive bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, allergy medication, motion sickness tablets, and any prescription medications you may need.

Reusable Water Bottle

Stay hydrated and eco-conscious by putting on your carry-on essentials list a reusable water bottle on your travels. Opt for a collapsible or insulated bottle that can easily fit in your bag and keep your drinks cold or hot for hours. Look for brands like Hydro Flask or Nalgene for durable options.

Read also: How to Stay Fit and Healthy While Traveling & Enjoying the Trip

Travel-Friendly Snacks

Whether on a short or long flight, beat hunger pangs and avoid overpriced airport snacks by packing your own travel-friendly snacks. Opt for non-perishable options like granola bars, nuts, dried fruit, or trail mix. Don’t forget to check customs regulations if you’re traveling internationally.

Multi-Purpose Travel Organizer

Keep your belongings tidy and easily accessible with a multi-purpose travel organizer. Choose from packing cubes, compression bags, or toiletry kits to maximize space and streamline your packing process. Brands like Eagle Creek and REI offer a variety of organizational solutions to suit your needs.

Here are some lesser-known travel must-haves that can make your journey smoother and more enjoyable:

Ziplock bags.

Don’t underestimate the power of a Ziplock bag when it comes to travel organization. Use them to store snacks, separate dirty laundry, or keep electronics safe from water damage. Plus, they’re transparent, making it easy to see what’s inside at a glance.

Microfiber Towel

Ditch the bulky towels and opt for a compact, quick-drying microfiber towel instead and put it on your toiletries list along with other essentials. Perfect for beach days, hostel stays, or impromptu picnics, these lightweight towels take up minimal space in your luggage and dry in a fraction of the time.

Portable Luggage Scale

Avoid excess baggage fees and airport surprises by packing a portable luggage scale. Compact and easy to use, these handy devices allow you to weigh your suitcase before heading to the airport, ensuring you stay within the weight limits.

Multipurpose Scarf

Pack a versatile scarf that can double as a blanket, pillow, or even a makeshift bag in a pinch. Look for scarves made from soft, breathable fabrics like cotton or bamboo for maximum comfort and versatility.

Travel Sewing Kit

A compact sewing kit can save the day when wardrobe malfunctions strike. Pack a few basic supplies like needles, thread, buttons, and safety pins to quickly mend torn clothing or reattach loose buttons on the go.

Mini Travel Surge Protector

What to pack for vacation or business that might be useful in either case? The last but not least thing is a mini travel surge protector. Compact and portable, these devices offer multiple outlets and USB ports, allowing you to charge all your devices simultaneously while safeguarding them from power surges.

More Helpful Tips: How to Pack a Suitcase

• Make a Packing List: Start by making a packing list to ensure you don’t forget any essentials. Organize your list by categories such as clothing, toiletries, electronics, and accessories to stay organized.
• Choose the Right Suitcase: Select a suitcase that suits your travel needs and preferences. Consider factors such as size, durability, and features like wheels and handles. Soft-sided suitcases are more flexible and easier to squeeze into tight spaces, while hard-sided suitcases offer better protection for fragile items.
• Roll Your Clothes: Maximize space and minimize wrinkles by rolling your clothes instead of folding them. This technique not only saves space but also makes it easier to see what you’ve packed at a glance.
• Pack Heavy Items at the Bottom: Place heavier items like shoes and toiletry bags at the bottom of your suitcase to distribute weight evenly and prevent crushing lighter items.
• Use Packing Cubes or Compression Bags: Invest in packing cubes or compression bags to keep your belongings organized and compact. These handy tools help separate different categories of items and maximize space in your suitcase.
• Pack Dual-Purpose Items: Choose clothing and accessories that can serve multiple purposes to minimize the number of items you need to pack. For example, a scarf can double as a blanket or a swimsuit cover-up, while a sarong can be worn as a skirt, dress, or shawl.
• Layer and Nest Items: Layer clothing and stack items like nesting dolls to maximize space and prevent shifting during travel. Place heavier items at the bottom and lighter items on top to maintain balance.
• Utilize Empty Spaces: Fill empty spaces in your suitcase with smaller items like socks, underwear, or rolled-up belts. Tuck them into gaps between larger items to maximize space and prevent shifting.
• Pack Toiletries Securely: Prevent leaks and spills by packing toiletries in leak-proof containers and storing them in a separate toiletry bag. Place this bag in a sealed plastic bag to contain any potential leaks.
• Leave Room for Souvenirs: Leave some extra space in your suitcase for souvenirs and purchases you may make during your trip. Consider packing a collapsible tote bag or duffel to use as an extra carry-on for your return journey.

By following this packing list, you can ensure that you have all the essential travel must-haves for a stress-free journey. Remember to tailor your travel checklist to your destination, duration of stay, and personal preferences. And as always, bon voyage from Arangrant !

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What I Wore In Biarritz, France

Biarritz, in case you’ve never heard of this gem of a city, is known as the surf capital of Europe. Located on French coast (just a few miles north of Spain), it’s the most amazing mix of French charm (cobblestone streets, beautiful pastries, etc), but with an undeniably laid-back, surf vibe. This entire region is definitely worth a visit (article coming out soon), but from a style perspective, I found the outfits both wildly inspiring and eminently wearable. Think: French-girl goes California.

Biarritz has all of the style of Paris, but with a decidedly casual (and dare I say, American?) bent. Birkenstocks and Nikes Dunks (or Jordans) were the most-worn shoe spotted on Biarritz locals, for example, as well as plenty of cut-off Levi’s (something I rarely see in other parts of France). If interested, I threw together a post last summer inspired by my favorite Biarritz-girl looks .

Summer Travel Packing List: What To Wear In Biarritz, France

Our summer vacations are – typically – the shore (or lake) with a little overseas travel thrown in. After so many years, I’ve now got a pretty reliable packing list for the shore (cut-offs, flip-flops, windbreakers) and a reliable packing list for European summer vacations (white linen dress, tan sandals, silk top, etc). For Biarritz, I basically combined the two packing lists, then edited it down to a few pieces that worked together. It was perfect! Biarritz can be really hot in the summer, but there’s often a cool breeze right on the water, so packing for both intense heat and a chilly wind was key. Here are the outfits & pieces I wore the most in Biarritz.

1. Little White Dress

on Me: dress, old | similar bomber jacket || on Pax: tech pants | shoes (all my guys swear by these for summer travel)

If I had to point to one piece that I’ve brought on every summer vacation for the last 5-10 years, it would be a little white dress. I like a true white – not only does it show off a tan, but bleach works, if needed. Little white dresses are the kind of piece that always look a little fancy – I’ve worn mine out to dinner plenty of times – yet are right at home with comfy, walkable shoes. I most often wear mine with sneakers, Birkenstocks, or flat, tan sandals.

dress, old | sandals | bag

Shop More Little White Dresses

My favorite little white dresses are usually 100% linen, and most of mine have been bought, over the years, at Reformation. Here are a few current options that caught my eye.

Shop White Midi Dresses

While I typically save my longer white dresses for Italy or Greece (a white mini dress has a beachy-chic vibe that feels spot-on for Biarritz), this is still France, after all, so a midi dress, if you’re looking for more coverage, still works great in Biarritz.

2. Oversized Bomber Jacket

similar bomber jacket (xs) | sandals

Since Biarritz often had a cool breeze coming off the water (especially in the early mornings or at night), a lightweight jacket like this was welcome for those early morning coffee runs or after dinner strolls. I’m kinda over denim jackets right now (except for these ), but I’m finding that some sort of oversized, cotton bomber jacket is a solid replacement. The shape looks great with all kinds of dresses (short, long, midi) and works equally well with jeans or shorts. It’s casual enough for day, but cool enough for dressier outfits, too.

Shop More Bomber (or Bomber-ish) Jackets

While I’ve found that a slightly oversized bomber jacket shape is the most versatile, don’t overlook cool, quilted jackets, varsity jackets, or cropped bombers, too.

3. Sailor Jeans

on Me: similar top (s) | jeans (27) | sandals || on Pax: pants | shoes

A crisp, well-tailored sailor jean has the perfect amount of interesting detail, yet won’t skew overly casual for nights out – especially in France. While Biarritz is definitely more casual than other parts of France, I wouldn’t have been nearly as comfortable in the faded jeans I swear by at the shore.

Besides, these sailor jeans are just cute . And were a fun pairing with all of my sneaky-fancy tops (like this silk cami).

similar top (s) | jeans (27) | sandals

Shop Sailor Jeans

4. a pretty little top.

similar top (s) | shorts (27) | sandals | sunglasses | bag

I swear by pretty little tops. I called them ‘sneaky fancy’ and that’s exactly it: you can wear them at night, sure, but you can also rock them during the day with cut-offs and flat sandals. My favorites aren’t cropped, but they don’t necessarily have to be tucked in, either. I’m forever a ditsy floral (the vintage vibes are just too good), but there are a ton of really pretty options.

Shop Pretty Little Tops

5. long silk dress.

On Me: dress (6) | sandals | bag || On Boys: shirts | shorts | shoes

I love a good silk dress. It’s one of the few pieces I wear all 12 months of the year – I think they’re a fantastic investment. 100% silk can be fancy if you want it to be, but there’s this… quiet luxury to silk that means it’ll look just as good with flip-flops.

I also appreciate that silk dresses are often simple in shape, so warming them up is usually easy. For Biarritz, I swore by this cropped little sweater (in 100% cotton)…

dress (6) | sweater (s) | sandals | bag

…but even a sweatshirt would work. I stole Raines’ newly purchased Parlementia sweatshirt (IYKYK but no, I didn’t actually let him surf it) when I got cold at dinner one night, and the outfit still felt perfect for Biarritz.

on Me: dress (6) | sweatshirt | sandals | bag

Shop More Long, Silk Dresses

6. everyday midi dress.

dress (s) – or this one | sandals | sunglasses

This is another piece I almost never leave home without: a dark-colored midi dress. The dark color hides all dirt (essential if you’re dealing with any sort of summertime public transportation or, in the case of Biarritz, a fun day trip to Spain), and the midi length means I can sit without worrying about the backs of my legs sticking to the chair/bench/grass/whatever.

dress (s) – or this one | sandals | sunglasses | bag

Because it’s so well-used, I highly recommend getting a dark midi dress that you love . I’ve been happiest with a dress in a slightly elevated cut, for example, instead of just a basic black (or navy) dress.

Shop My Favorite Everyday Midi Dresses

7. little crochet dress.

same dress, but this year’s version (size s), similar here or here | slides

There’s something about this granny-square crochet that just feels special – like it’s some cool, vintage find. It’s not! But for some reason, I seem to gravitate to these standout crochet pieces on vacation (case in point: Cuba ), and the playful, unique vibe is perfect for Biarritz. Word of warning: crochet is never as cool as I think it should be, so I’d skip these pieces on truly hot days.

Shop Little Crochet Dresses

8. bright & cheery dress.

similar dress (6) | sandals | bag – or similar

For summer vacations in Europe, I usually end up with five dresses: A little white dress, a dark midi dress, a silk dress, a playful everyday dress (in the case of Biarritz it was crochet) and…one colorful dress. I almost always end up choosing a colorful linen dress from Reformation . One year it was a dress like this (in red) with old Hollywood vibes (served me well in a really fancy hotel in London), but for Biarritz, I wanted something more girl-next-door. The vintage-y button-front and cheery color of this one totally sold me. This is one area where I really play with the feel of the place I’m going, and try to match it.

Shop Bright & Cheery Dresses

9. sailor shorts + cute tops.

vintage top – similar vibe | shorts (28) | bag

I’m a die-hard shorts wearer, even in Europe. And sailor shorts seem to be the best compromise I can make between my summer propensity for Americana & not wanting to look like a complete tourist. These shorts elevate any outfit – even a basic tee – but look especially cute with a playful little top.

shorts (28) | bag | slides | sneakers

Shop Sailor Shorts

10. levi’s shorts + swimsuits / cover-ups.

similar cover-up or this one | bikini | shorts (27) | bag | slides | sunglasses

When we were actually heading to one of Biarritz’s many beaches, I wore my trusty Levi’s. Levi’s are my swimsuit cover-up of choice, but if I wanted more coverage, I added a gauzy cover-up picked up on our travels, or – if it was breezy – a windbreaker.

similar swimsuit | shorts (27) | sandals | bag | sunglasses

These outfits were cute enough for seaside espressos, but still practical for a day at the beach. (Gahhh my mom is SO CUTE.)

on Me: similar swimsuit | windbreaker (s) || on Mom: similar top (s) | similar pants (s)

Cute One-Piece Swimsuits (To Wear With Cut-Offs)

11. frank & eileen travel set.

travel set (s) | sneakers | sunglasses | luggage

Lastly, if there’s one set that I cannot recommend highly enough, it’s this Frank & Eileen triple fleece set . This thing is magic . It’s basically fancy sweatpants, and I wear it on every overseas flight, yet emerge off the plane looking put-together and remarkably unrumpled. I’ve worn it to a fancy English tea in London while we waited for our hotel room to be ready, I’ve worn it hot-air ballooning in Turkiye, and I definitely wore the heck out of it in Biarritz, too. Not only is this set incredibly useful, but the individual pieces are pretty great, too.

capelet (s) | shorts (27) | slides | sunglasses

Ahhhh…happy summer travels!

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A Summer Capsule Wardrobe Will Simplify Your Packing Process

By Meaghan Kenny

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Finding reliable clothing staples to rewear again and again helps us all to become more sustainable travelers—and refrain from overpacking. When building a summer travel capsule wardrobe, versatile and comfortable basics are key: Rather than packing a suitcase full of trendy items or statement outfits you'll only wear once, consider investing in basics you can pair with several outfits and wear from day to night. To lay the foundation, we've put together a list of top summer wardrobe essentials, whether you’re headed to a beach vacation in Mexico or are planning to eat your way through Italy . No matter where your upcoming travel plans take you, these are the pieces you’ll be glad you packed. From crisp white button-downs and lightweight linen dresses to walking sandals and packable beach totes, you can count on them to keep your packing list short and your outfit options long.

Below, 13 pieces to build a summer travel capsule wardrobe, with men's and women's styles from brands we love: Everlane, Lululemon, Banana Republic, and more. Keep scrolling to see them all or jump right to your item of choice.

Build your summer capsule wardrobe:

The breathable tank top, the perfect short, the linen pant, the classic button-down, the basic tee, the midi dress, the midi skirt, the exercise dress, the white sneaker, the walking sandal, the comfortable heel, the quality bathing suit, the packable tote.

Hot summer days mean you’ll need a few basic tanks. Ribbed tank tops are always a smart choice—they're both comfortable and flattering. If you want something that looks a little more put together with a pair shorts or a midi skirt, I wear this seamless bodysuit from Amazon constantly (it’s double-lined and I own it in multiple colors). Nike and Lululemon make some of our favorite performance tanks for men—they’re available in a variety of colors, too.

Finding a trusted pair of shorts can feel nearly impossible. We chose options that aren’t too short, so you can avoid unwanted chafing while still keeping cool. High-waisted, light wash options are ideal for hot summer days and pair well with just about any top in your suitcase.

For something a little more breezy, opt for a pair of linen pants. Whether I'm headed to a barbecue or lunch by the pool, I'm always gravitating toward linen in the warmer months. Lightweight, packable, and chic—it's the ultimate summer pant.

Every traveler needs a go-to tee . A basic T-shirt pairs well with almost any pair of shorts, linen pants, or skirt you pack this summer (sometimes I even throw one underneath a sleeveless dress). Cotton tees from Everlane, Skims, True Classic, and Cuts are breathable and lightweight, making them year-round staples for every type of packing list . No matter where I'm headed, whether it's a beach trip in Miami or a cabin getaway in Vermont, I have at least two comfy tees in my weekender .

Along with a plain white tee, I never travel without a button-down —I wear these with denim, as a cover-up by the pool , or over a slip dress at night if it gets a little chilly. For something ultra lightweight, a linen button-down will keep you cool and covered.

One of the most fun items to pack for summer: midi dresses . Staple pieces like this rib tank dress from Buck Mason and Abercrombie's linen blend dress are always smart options, but for something with a little more flare, I’m eyeing colorful picks from Lulus, Farm Rio, and Banana Republic. Whether you’re headed to a dinner party or want to explore a new city in style, these dresses scream summer and are easy to throw on with any pair of sandals.

Equally elegant and comfortable, a midi skirt can be dressed up or down with a pair of low heels, sneakers, or sandals. A skirt like this elevates an otherwise simple look and can be reworn endlessly throughout a trip with any of your favorite tanks, tees, or blouses. We love these chic styles from Free People, Banana Republic, and Cuyana, but for something under $40, Amazon brand The Drop's high-waisted skirt is a great staple.

Ideal for active travelers and especially hot destinations, exercise dresses are supportive enough for hikes and workout classes, while doubling as a cute daytime outfit. I don't always work out on a trip, but when I do, a sporty yet feminine exercise dress is the way to go—I'll wear one for a morning walk and still feel put together enough for breakfast at the hotel and whatever comes next. For practicality and comfort, I love ones that have built-in shorts underneath, like the Outdoor Voices style.

When it comes to essential shoes, every traveler needs a crisp pair of white sneakers . It’s always my most-worn shoe on every trip, especially when there’s a walking tour on the itinerary. Some of our team's favorite comfortable white sneakers come from Nike, Lululemon, and Adidas, with men’s and women’s sizes available for each.

Summer sandals can be a tricky shoe to purchase: You want a pair that can withstand a good amount of walking without causing blisters, but that still leaves you looking put together. These options below from Rothy's, Olukai, Birkenstock, and Teva can take you from the pool to lunch to sightseeing around town. Comfortable, versatile, and packable, a good walking sandal is simply a must.

For those summer nights when you need something a little more elevated than your favorite pair of sandals, a comfortable heel is a must-have. Black, ivory, or nude heels match just about any midi dress you toss in your carry-on . The height of these heels is just right—high enough to wear to any destination weddings or special events you're attending, but low enough to actually dance the night away in. Bonus points for block heels and mules—both styles are easier to walk in and provide decent stability on uneven ground.

No matter where I’m headed—beach vacation or not—I always pack a bathing suit . You can't go wrong with a supportive one-piece or high-waisted set. Some of our favorite men's swim trunks are from Todd Snyder and Lacoste, but we have plenty more options where that came from.

A packable tote bag that you can bring to the beach, shopping, or to the hotel pool will always come in handy. When I'm low on suitcase space, I prefer one that can lay completely flat—like Rothy's Lightweight Tote. These roomy, beachy bags all fit a day's worth of essentials, including a beach towel , water bottle, and lots of sunscreen .

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I Just Spent a Week in London, and These 10 Amazon Finds Were at the Top of My Packing List — From $10

Including Apple AirTags, Baggu bags, and Reebok tennis shoes.

Travel + Leisure / Marcus Millan

It doesn’t matter where I’m headed in the world, I always have two non-negotiables when traveling somewhere new: I have to show up to the airport hours in advance (even with TSA pre-check) and I have to overpack — shocking, I know, but I never want to be without something important. So before embarking on my first trip to London, England, I knew there was only one place to find everything I'd need for a successful week-long adventure across the pond: Amazon. 

From leisurely strolling through Notting Hill and admiring the bundles of blooms at Columbia Road Flower Market to reenacting The Beatles' iconic "Abbey Road" album cover, these 10 Amazon finds made my holiday go as smoothly as possible. My curated list of travel essentials includes a range of items, like comfortable sneakers , portable chargers , and crossbody bags . After all, it's my job as an Amazon shopping writer to know where the retailer's best travel accessories are. Keep scrolling to see what made my London packing list. 

Baggu Medium Nylon Crescent Bag

The Airbnb I stayed at was a 30-minute Tube ride to central London, so I knew the only times I would be there was when I woke up in the morning and went to sleep at night. Because of this, I brought a spacious bag that could not only carry all of my belongings, but also be a fun accessory to add to my outfits. This Baggu crescent bag checked off both boxes thanks to its sleek exterior, roomy interior, and adjustable strap that I could wear around my shoulder, or across my chest. And, it’s made with a nylon material that’s machine washable, so I didn’t have to worry about it getting dirty throughout the day. 

Anrabess Two-piece Lounge Set

With a seven-hour plane ride to Heathrow and another seven-hour trip back to NYC, comfort was at the top of my mind for my travel outfits. This is why I opted for a two-piece lounge set to keep me cozy from checking into my flight to checking into my Airbnb. This soft and stretchy set comes with a quarter-zip top that you can easily throw over a T-shirt, and drawstring pants that you can tighten or loosen as needed. Plus, there are 21 colors to choose from, including fun neutrals like apricot beige, caramel brown, and sky blue. 

Apple AirTag

We’ve all heard horror stories of someone’s checked luggage not making it to their final destination, and they have no way of finding its location. So this wouldn’t be the case for me during my vacation, I grabbed a flight attendant-trusted Apple AirTag to stick in every bag I brought. The gadget comes with a built-in tracker that connects to the Find My App on my iPhone so I can see its location in real-time. And if your belongings do get lost, there’s an option to ping the AirTag to sound an alert or set it in lost mode until it’s found. 

Reebok Club C 85 Vintage Walking Shoes

Like any major city, London calls for a lot of walking. And since I already get an above-average step count living in New York City, I brought my tried and true Reebok sneakers. The classic shoes feature white leather exteriors that match everything, and they’re extremely comfortable thanks to their supportive insoles. I’ve been through a lot of shoes that leave my feet and heels with blisters, but never with these shoes. You’ll definitely want to snag a pair while they’re on sale. 

Bagail Eight-piece Packing Cube Set

I outed myself earlier, but it’s true. I’m guilty of overpacking. I wanted to make the most of my luggage space for this trip since I was traveling for a full week, so I snagged a set of packing cubes to help keep me organized. The handy eight-piece set came with various bags in different sizes to separate my clothing, undergarments, shoes, and makeup. It made it so easy to keep my bag organized throughout the week, and for once, I didn’t have to sit on my suitcase to get it to zip shut.

Iniu Portable Charger

Between using Google Maps to figure out where I was going, my camera to take photos, and Apple Pay to quickly buy things, I was constantly using my phone in London. I knew I needed a portable charger with how long I’d be out during the day, and the ones I already owned rarely lasted long enough to produce even half a charge. So after glimpsing through the 77,000 five-star reviews of this best-selling portable charger , I decided to give it a try. The charger lasted for days on one single charge and recharged my phone fast . I 10/10 recommend this for anyone traveling this summer. 

Owala FreeSip Insulated Stainless Steel Water Bottle

Speaking of staying out and about all day, I wanted to make sure I had a reusable bottle of water on me to stay hydrated. And even though I have plenty of options on deck at home, my favorite as of late for on-the-go travel has been the best-selling Owala bottle . Made with an insulated design, the stainless steel bottle keeps my water ice cold for hours. And, it comes with a covered lid that locks into place so there are no potential leaks or spills. Choose from 16- to 40-ounce options, and 22 vibrant colors. 

Columbia Arcadia II Jacket

In case you didn’t already know, London is notorious for rainy weather. Since I didn’t have room to pack an umbrella, I made sure to bring a waterproof jacket. This Columbia rain jacket is made with a lightweight fabric that is easy to layer over a shirt without getting hot, and its compact design makes it a breeze to pack into your suitcase — and in a tote when you’re on the go. Plus, it features a drawstring hood, built-in pockets, and a zipper to ensure you stay dry.

Mrsdry Silicone Travel Bottles

I’m pretty particular when it comes to using provided hotel toiletries. Certain items just don’t work with my sensitive skin or fine hair, so I’ve been adding my favorite moisturizers, body washes, and conditioners to this set of travel bottles for some time now. The four bottles are designed with a silicone material and a lid that locks into place, so you don’t have to worry about unwanted leaks. Each bottle is 3 ounces in size and comes with a clear bag to meet all TSA guidelines. 

European Travel Plug Adapter

Last but certainly not least, this travel plug adapter kept my phone, headphones, and smartwatch running throughout the entire week. If you’re headed to Europe anytime soon, you’ll quickly learn that they don’t use the same outlets as we do in America, so it’s essential to bring an adapter if you plan on using any electronics. This popular pick came with three plug-ins in one, so I could charge multiple devices at once. I truly wouldn’t have made it through my trip without this.

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