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How to Dress Like a European – The Ultimate Packing List for Europe

Last Modified: January 31, 2024 //  by  Anda //   104 Comments

Ready to spend a couple of weeks in Europe but still struggling with your packing list? Most of us care how we look and how others perceive us. But even if looking sharp is not your main priority, blending in with the locals and not being labeled a tourist is always a good idea when you travel. In this guide I will give you some guidance on how to dress like a European and avoid embarrassing fashion mistakes.

But before I tell you what to pack for your trip to Europe, there are a few things you need to know about the European dress style.

Table of Contents

European Fashion

European dress style is all about the fit, how to dress like a european, can you be fashionable on a budget, european attire for women, european attire for men, what you should not wear in europe, where to buy good quality clothes in europe, how to avoid looking like a tourist.

If this is your first time in Europe, there may be a few things that will surprise you . And one of them is how the Europeans dress. You will notice that Europeans always seem nicely dressed and well put-together. While in North America we tend to favor comfort over style, in Europe people are way more concerned about the way they look. 

While there isn’t a dress code per se , the European dress style is first about  chic and then about comfort. You don’t see many Parisians wearing something ill-fitting or unflattering just because it’s comfortable!

Traditionally, clothing is much more expensive in Europe than in other parts of the world. But it’s also of very good quality. European women may not have many outfits, but what they have is of good quality and it fits nicely. 

If you want to dress like a European woman, think chic and elegant . You don’t need to wear a cocktail dress or high heel shoes in order to be elegant. All you need is pair up your clothes in such a way that you don’t look like a hiker.

There is a great variety of clothes and shoes which can be both comfy and chic. Keep it simple. You don’t need a hole lot of cloths, but what you wear should make a statement.

What I need to make clear from the start is that I’m not a fashionista. However, as someone born and raised in Europe, I can give you some good advice about how to dress like a European.

I also need to clarify that in this article I basically discuss how people dress in the major European cities like Paris, London, Venice, Rome, Amsterdam, etc. In smaller European towns, resorts, or in the countryside the fashion is very different. Therefore, your packing list for Europe will vary depending on your destination. Packing for 3 days in Paris will certainly differ from packing for a few days in Zermatt . 

Not everybody can afford designer label clothing, but that doesn’t mean you can’t be fashionable on a budget. Today it’s actually a bigger demand for low-budget fashion than it is for high end designers. As a result, most of the department stores carry very stylish clothes at very affordable prices.

If you look up any fashion magazines or online websites, you will find plenty of fashion ideas that will help you stay fashionable within your budget. It’s easy to create your own fashion style with with some simple and trendy ideas.

Packing List for Europe

Here is what you could consider for your packing list for Europe:

When traveling to Europe remember that people seeing you briefly for the first time will judge you completely by your appearance and will treat you accordingly. As a traveler, most of your personal contact will be with hotel clerks and restaurant waiters. To get a good table and good service you need to dress as if you deserve it. Finding the perfect balance between comfort and style may be difficult, but it’s not impossible.

So here is what you could wear in Europe as a woman:

  • Comfortable, but nice shoes

European streets, subways and busses are very crowded, so open toe shoes or are not always a good choice. Unless it’s hot. Since we started traveling in 1989 I have walked hundreds of miles in Born , Ecco , and Clarks shoes and have always been happy with these brands.

If you travel to Europe in winter you should pack a pair of low heel boots, as they are more comfortable on the uneven pavement of the European streets. The most popular winter shoes for Europe are Dr. Martens. This is a military style boot that is thick and comfortable, but not very flattering for older women. I personally prefer Born and Clark’s, which are a little more elegant but still comfortable.

•Dresses, skirts, dress pants, short-sleeve and long-sleeve tops  

Depending on the season, you  should bring some short-sleeve/long-sleeve tops , a sweater dress to wear with tights , a skirt and some dress pants . All these items are a must for your Europe packing list.

Wearing jeans is not my first choice, but if you wear them with a pair of boots , a nice top  and a blazer , you’ll be just fine. 

For fall or spring, a trench coat or a  blazer  that you can wear over your dress, or with any pair of pants.                                                   

• Scarfs and accessories

Scarfs, belts, and some costume jewelry are great accessories for your outfits. They add color and style to any outfit and they are easy to carry around. You can wear the same dress three days in a row, yet make it look like a different outfit if you wear it with a scarf, a belt, or a piece of jewelry. I have a great collection of scarfs and belts which are always part of my packing list for Europe.

• A Nice Bag (preferably not cross-body)

Bags are fine for both men and women. The best would be a shoulder, anti-theft bag that lies somewhat flat to your body, so you can lay your hand over it as need. Also, backpack-style bags work great. Not the kind that you would wear on a hiking trip, of course, but the small leather ones that you can wear both on your shoulder or on your back.

Don’t bring a messenger/cross-body bag to Europe! No one carries them there, except the American tourists.

European males are equally preoccupied with their looks as women. But as a male, the packing guides out there are pretty vague. If you want to dress like a European man think basic luxury and  neat and tight clothes.

When traveling to Europe you’ll need to make a little investment into some good quality clothes. Also, make sure your clothes fit nicely and don’t sag. Europeans love their clothes to fit a little slimmer, almost tight. Therefore, if you want to look  Parisian, don’t wear baggy clothes!

 Another trick to make you look European is to layer up: shirt, sweater and coat on top. Men in Europe love to wear layers, especially during the colder seasons. 

• Pick slacks over jeans and shirts over T-hirst

Leave the jeans and T-shirts for your travels to Las Vegas and pack a couple of pairs of slacks , a few casual shirts and a nice blazer when you travel to Europe. Most importantly, reconsider the synthetics, but keep leather, cashmere, denim, cotton and  linen. 

If you travel during the cold season, a good quality  coat (which may be a bit pricier), a cashmere turtleneck and a scarf will really give you an edge.

• Choose comfortable, but dress shoes

It’s much easier for men to find comfortable shoes, since they are not after high heels. Grab some leather pointed shoes in neutral colors, like blacks and browns. Make sure they are always polished and clean. It’s important to choose comfortable shoes, with thicker rubber sole, that can absorb shock. In Europe you’ll most likely do a lot of walking and thin soles will give  you a lot of pain.

When it comes to European fashion, there are a few faux pas that you should avoid at all costs. So here is what NOT to pack for Europe: 

• College/university apparel

University wear is not a big fashion trend in Europe. If you spot anyone in Europe wearing a Harvard, UC Berkley or UCLA sweatshirt, chances are they are a tourist.

• Baseball caps and athletic gear

While it may be comfortable to wear athletic gear while sightseeing, it’s generally considered a fashion faux pas in many European cities. Instead, opt for casual but stylish clothing that blends in with the locals. 

• Khakis, shorts and sweat pants

Khakis, shorts and sweat pants will be frowned upon in most European cities, therefore you shouldn’t include them in your packing list. Unless you are planning to go hiking in the mountains, shorts and sweat pants are a no-no in most European cities.

• Tennis Shoes, Convers, Flip-Flops

Flip-flops and sneakers may be popular among the youngsters in many countries. In fact, they are so popular in California that most young people wear them everywhere. But nothing screams  ‘tourist’ like bouncing down the streets of Europe in Flip-flops, converse, or tennis shoes! 

• Flashy colors and clothing embellished with flags or chauvinistic slogans

Patriotic or flashy logos may work in the USA, but they are considered ostentatious and perceived as a lack of class in Europe. Americans love to wear strong colors and patterns , but Europeans like subtle colors. Wearing bright, flashy colors will signal that you are a tourist from a mile away, therefore you should stay away from them.

• Cameras around your neck

We all love to take home digital memories from our travels, but wearing your camera around your neck wherever you go is bad taste. Besides, broadcasting to everyone that you are a tourist may increase your risk of attracting thieves. 

It’s best to keep your camera in a bag and take it out only when you are planning to use it.

READ NEXT: Best Time to Travel to Europe

If you live in a small town where it’s difficult to find fancy clothes, don’t panic. You can always do some shopping while visiting Europe. Don’t get set back by the huge prices you see displayed in the windows.

Get inside and look through the inventory. You’ll be surprised how many great deals you can find, even in the most sophisticated stores. In fact, I strongly encourage you to buy some good quality clothing from Europe. You’ll most likely turn some heads when you wear them back home.

Some people couldn’t care less if they have the word “ tourist ” written all over them. However, blending in with the locals has many advantages. And perhaps the most important one of them is that you’ll be less of a target for petty theft. Here are a few other things to consider if you don’t want to be labeled a “ tourist “:

• Don’t carry maps or guidebooks everywhere you go
• Walk with a purpose, not like someone who is lost
• Don’t carry large backpacks everywhere
• Learn local customs and etiquette
• Avoid taking selfies
• Eat where the locals do

I hope my post answered some of your questions about European fashion. So how does one dress like a European? By simply looking casually elegant. At any rate, have a great trip regardless of what you wear or not wear.

If you found this information useful, please pin it for later : 

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Anda is an award winning travel writer, avid globetrotter and passionate photographer. She is the voice behind "Travel Notes & Beyond," a collection of stories and travel impressions from her wanderings around the world. When she is not busy writing, traveling, or editing photographs, you can find her hiking in the foothills behind her house together with her husband and their dog.

Reader Interactions

February 14, 2024 at 4:57 pm

Hello Anda,

You have brought up a timeless and forever important topic and intersting too. You also have a wonderful website blog that’s easy on the eyes. I would like to say that I notice here on your blog and on many other blogs or forums about “What to wear in_____”, it’s also about SECURITY. Of course it’s about fashion, style and being presentable and respecting the culture and people’s ways of the country, but dressing well and dressing of the mode of a place helps keep you away from becoming a target of theft, scams, and God-forbid other crimes from horrible unbecoming people, which has been an issue for some time plaguing European countries unfortunately. But this one is a different topic altogether.

So when you hear or even say “be safe out there” or something like that, you must know that safety is also about the way you dress, not just in your activities or where you go. If you dress up inappropriately or not even trying to blend in, will simply make you as good as “wearing” a target or red flag ready to be approached, bothered or harrassed by those problemtic people.

February 14, 2024 at 5:19 pm

Thanks for your comment, Antonio. I’m glad you my article useful.

September 22, 2023 at 4:34 pm

You seem to be one of those people who pride themselves on looking like tourists. My only question is why are you reading posts about how to dress in Europe when you are convinced that you already know how?

September 17, 2023 at 4:01 pm

“No athletic gear”: Um, what? We have clearly experienced European countries differently. I’ve seen more Adidas athletic clothes over there than on the street in the U.S. Also lots of slide-on sandals in summer (so much for “ no sandals”).

People *do* wear shorts in many European countries, especially given the recent heat waves. It was a thing from the 90s to not wear shorts — recently I heard a German say that nothing will make you stick out more than wearing long pants and leather shoes when it’s 35 degrees C. Just wear the shorts already if others are.

Ball caps and Converse are also more common than people think.

September 18, 2023 at 10:37 am

Obviously, you’ll see some people wearing athletic shoes, shorts or cargo pants in Europe, but those are mainly tourists or very young kids. Generally, Europeans dress much more stylish than Americans. And even though it has changed a little over the years and Europeans now dress more casually, the difference is still visible.

August 30, 2023 at 8:09 pm

I too enjoyed your suggestions about travel. Yes, I agree that whatever an American wears in Paris will be unfashionable if it is comfortable. In the UK, things seemed more relaxed. In Ireland at the cliffs of Mohr, an American was extremely fashionable, but dressed in white wool clothing, covered in mud from the cliff trails. So dress appropriately for weather, mud, etc. Secondly, to Americans I say stick to single tone pieces of clothing and lots of different silk scarves to change up the outfit. People, unless on a tour bus, will only see you for a day. My husband and I try to fit into the culture. It was fun when a proprietor of a store in the Alps could not decide in which language to speak to us, until we spoke to each other. We are American, but my husband’s heritage is Swiss-German. Enjoy the journey.

August 18, 2023 at 10:54 am

Thank you Anda this was a great article and very helpful guide. I loved the Primo Sacchi handbag in the suggestions and ordered it. It seems like just what I’m looking to carry a few essentials and beautiful quality as well. Hope it works out.

August 18, 2023 at 5:30 pm

Thank you for your kind words. It’s comments like yours that encourage me to keep writing. Hope the beg will work for you.

October 13, 2022 at 6:25 am

Very interesting and informative article. I’m getting ready for a trip to Europe and this is really helpful.

dave barnes

August 30, 2022 at 9:19 am

You might show styles for fat old American males. Not all of us are emaciated 20-something models. On the other hand, cargo shorts are always in style. In 2019, we were having lunch in a mid-scale restaurant in Bologna and noticed that the table of 6 Italian males were all wearing cargo shorts.

July 22, 2022 at 1:16 pm

Converse is definitely popular in Europe, BUT make sure they are in conversative colors (white, black) and kept CLEAN. I almost never see a worn-out or dirty pair, they don’t add character, just sloppiness.

July 21, 2022 at 6:49 pm

We are taking a river cruise and I don’t like the look of sneakers and shorts AT ALL, not ever, not even in the US. I wear sneakers while exercising and with leggings occasionally. But—I also think Borns, Clark’s, and those other awful “comfort” sandals look no better. They are hideous and unflattering period. Soooo…my question is, what do EUROPEANS wear when they have many days of walking tours? Which version of ugly do you suggest I wear? I’m 42 and thin and fit, and those school marm you suggested make me want to cry. But sneakers, ugh! Please help. 🙂

July 21, 2022 at 9:45 pm

I know what you are saying, Susan. I’m also trying to compromise between feeling comfortable and looking good. Unfortunately we have very few good choices here, in the US, which is why I buy my shoes in Europe. I like Born, Clark and Ecco, that sometimes have good looking and comfortable shoes.

January 19, 2023 at 8:24 pm

Adidas, Veja, Tretorn. A gum sole is very in right now. Allbirds are my favorite because they are extremely comfortable. Sandals in a city are gross and you will hate it, trust me.

January 20, 2023 at 1:41 pm

I walk the a lot in sandals in summer and didn’t feel it’s “gross,” but I guess that depends where you walk. I usually avoid filthy neighborhoods, lol!

July 1, 2022 at 11:12 am

People don’t remember what you were wearing after you die, but they remember how you treated them. Most people will choose to spend their money on experiences (Trip to Europe) over fashion and I will always support that. I think you can look respectful and mindful on a budget. I can buy a cheap scarf at Target if that’s what it takes and move my Travelon black pickpocket/slash-proof purse strap to my shoulder instead of across my body because you’re telling me fashion should take priority over getting my passport and credit card stolen?? My husband is going to wear his favorite dark blue Asics and Levi’s no matter what fashion shoe or pants I try and put him in. (He’s paying for the trip) and I’m okay with that because I’m just grateful he worked hard to help pay for the experience.

July 1, 2022 at 11:21 am

Dressing like a European doesn’t mean spending a fortune on clothing, Michelle. You can have good taste and dress fashionably even from Target. For some people blending with the locals and not looking like a tourist is important, but if for you it isn’t, then just don’t do it.

July 29, 2022 at 10:18 am

Dear Meryn, First of all thank you for taking time to comment. I really appreciate that. As a European myself, I am well aware that the dressing style in Europe is changing lately, but the basic principles are still the same. My article is not intended to give advice about the latest fashion, but rather some general ideas about how people dress in Europe. You can always wear what you like in Europe, as long as you dress in a stylish manner.

September 8, 2022 at 3:26 pm

Damn straight! Nobody we pass on the street during our travels gives our fashion choices more than a fleeting thought. Be comfortable, be safe. Screw anyone that finds your fashion choices distasteful. That’s their problem, not mine. Wear what makes you feel good and enjoy your time traveling. Don’t waste time stressing about what everyone will think of you.

September 8, 2022 at 5:46 pm

Nothing wrong with dressing any way you want, Jane. What puzzles me is why are you reading this post if you don’t care to dress like a European?

November 19, 2022 at 12:46 pm

I was in Europe in the ’60’s and have no desire to go back. Dress codes in public were oppressive, women wore dresses or skirts, never pants or shorts. Now people are held back from flying home if they test for covid and have to stay in a motel 14 days instead of flying home with spouse or friends. Unless people are in social classes (wealthier class) people don’t care in the U.S. about fashion if clothes are clean and basic incl joggers or nike’s worn most anywhere. Ripped jeans and revealing ill fitting clothing is a turn off no matter where your at.

July 24, 2023 at 1:18 pm

I laughed when I read this because I could have written it. I completely agree with what you said. I trip to Europe should not require a complete redesign of your wardrobe. Also, I am lucky I have already convinced my husband he cannot wear his cargo shorts to DINNER. If he wants to wear them sightseeing in July, so be it. He is a kind and polite person and I want him to enjoy the trip as much as me. I will probably make some adjustments to my packing selection, but I will do so out of what I currently own.

June 13, 2022 at 2:11 am

Black or white low converse are worn regularly here, but as the casual twist to an outfit. Those and vans are much loved because they are cobblestone and hill friendly. Smooth leather soles are deadly. No one looks good in a cast.

May 20, 2022 at 4:14 pm

I was wondering how people can even walk around with heels all day in the city. I’ll be in Europe soon walking constantly and I’m not sacrificing my comfort over a fashionable and uncomfortable shoe.

May 21, 2022 at 3:06 am

Oh, you don’t have to sacrifice comfort over fashionable. You can wear nice, lower heel shoes.

April 3, 2022 at 6:09 am

I am a Brit born and bred. Jeans are perfectly acceptable for daytime casual wear here but never ever wear double denim. An absolute no-no.

February 15, 2020 at 5:29 pm

I know this beautiful article/post is to help people blend in and not look like a tourist when visiting other countries, in this case specifically European countries, but besides the “not looking like a tourist” factor and purpose, here’s a huge point: RESPECT. It’s all about showing respect for the places and societies you visit or travel to. We are not all the same. We all different, and when you visit countries, it is not your country and it is not a Disneyworld. Countries are real life and real society. It also goes back to the classic saying “When in Rome, do as the Romans do”. But overall, it’s about respect.

August 5, 2019 at 8:03 pm

I’d agree with most of these points, but I WILL carry a cross-body messenger type bag on my upcoming European vacation. It is small and black, not “loud,” but it’s a necessity for me when spending a day walking through larges cities like Rome or Paris and needing to keep items handy, but secure. Maybe the locals can get away with a shoulder bag, but they probably aren’t carrying all the cash, credit cards, passports, and electronic devices I’ll have with me. And they aren’t going to be targeted by pickpockets the way I will once someone hears my accent and figures out I’m American. So yeah, if that makes me look like a tourist, well that is what I am after all. I’m not going out of my way to flaunt it, but some things like a cross body bag are non-negotiable for me.

Anda Galffy

August 6, 2019 at 10:59 am

I hear you, Lisa. We are all concerned about petty theft when we travel. No worries about the cross-body bag. Yea sure, the Europeans don’t wear them, but if that makes you feel safer do it.

Maite Stephens

July 17, 2022 at 9:28 am

I am from Europe and I can assure you that when we, Europeans , travel for vacation in Europe and are sightseeing, we wear crossed body bags to prevent being a target while looking at building, or walking in a museum! The rest of the advice is on point.

December 11, 2021 at 6:35 pm

Lisa, i was going to return my anti theft Crossbody bag until I read your response. I actually marked off to return my Crossbody bag on the notes I take researching my three week trip to Western Europe in the shoulder season, September ’22.

Now I can relax a little, along with my pick pocket proof pants. I want to look like I have moey but I’m prepared at the dame time. Thanks for you excellent feedback. Besides that I thought the article was spot on.

June 24, 2019 at 12:57 pm

This article is definitely accurate in the sophisticated clothing but I think it is some what outdated in the footwear and shorts. I was recently in London and Paris and while people wore nice clothing a lot of locals wore shorts and practically everyone was in tennis shoes. Wearing Tennis shoes and shorts might mark you as a tourist in a ritzy area but not in the main part of the city.

June 24, 2019 at 4:22 pm

That is valid for the young generation. Sadly, the tendency in Europe is to copy the Americans, so I’m not surprised to see they began wearing shorts and tennis shoes.

June 5, 2019 at 6:08 am

This article, while informative, is mostly a preconceived notion. A Parisian here (insert a wave). A friend forwarded a link to this article and asked whether I agree. I’m married to an american, living in the U.S. part-time, traveling for living, with family located all over Europe: Paris, London, Moscow, Prague, Oslo, Munich, Vienna. What I agree with: european men do prefer slim/tighter fit of both, tops and bottoms. Layers – yes, scarves – yes. Fit is everything. That being said, the style has relaxed IMMENSELY over the last few years. In fact, simple dresses with trainers (keds, skechers, converse) are very popular for casual outings. Even major theaters have relaxed their dress codes and i’ve seen lots and lots of locals wearing casual bottoms and slightly dressier tops for orchestra performances. I personally detest it as I am all about tailored clothing, heels and quality handbags, but comfort is taking over. The way I recognized americans without a fail is no longer by keds or skechers or crossbody handbags (the latter is now worn by just about everyone in every major city) but by plastic, unnecessary smiles. 20 years in the U.S. and it still perplexes me. In summary, european men dress more differently from their american counterparts than european vs american women. I do agree, quality over quantity is what sets us apart. And scarves 🙂

June 5, 2019 at 11:01 am

Thanks for your comment, Julie. Truly appreciated.

August 24, 2019 at 3:12 pm

A spaniard here currently living and working in Dublin. I am not sure if, perhaps, this targeted to a much older audience…? I am in my late 30s and wear mostly good quality leather cross body bags (so do all my colleagues and friends here in Ireland and back in Spain. Same in all european capitals that I travel to frequently for work: London, Berlin, Paris…). I also wear jeans most of the time and some times fashion sneakers. It is true that I prefer to wear a chelsea leather boot to a pair of runners, but seems to me that that the style here is way more relaxed than what this article suggests…

Shreya Saha

May 13, 2019 at 10:06 am

This is an informative post. I did not know that I have to think much before dressing up in Europe. But I like to know about the thoughts from someone who grew up in Europe. I loved the fashion for women and really want to have a Clarks shoe soon.

Kristy Sheridan

March 19, 2019 at 6:45 pm

Thank you for this helpful article! Hub and I are planning 2 weeks in Switzerland, Lake Como, and Provence this September, including stops in cities- Lucerne, Geneva, Nice, etc…. Planning on taking a basic, classic, wardrobe and I wanted to include a blazer. My favorite is lightweight navy wool gabardine from Ralph Lauren, with a simple crest on the lapel. Would this be considered too flashy? Thanks so much in advance for your advice!

March 20, 2019 at 11:46 am

No, that’s not too flashy. It’s just perfect. Have a safe trip.

November 8, 2018 at 1:04 am

Hello! my family is touring Europe in December. Any advice on the clothing during the winter period? Thank you!

November 8, 2018 at 11:08 am

Depending where in Europe you go, December may be very cold. It can get bitterly cold even in Rome and Paris, although you will most likely not encounter snow in these areas. I would recommend you take a good winter coat (it may be a peacoat) with you and some dark pants. Black jeans will work also. Take a few turtle necks (there may be strong winds) and a wool scarf. Don’t take a ski jacket if you want a smart, elegant look. Hope this helps.

February 16, 2019 at 6:22 am

We are going to Europe in October. I’m having a hard time finding comfort shoes for my husband that can be walked in all day but could be worn with slacks too. Is there anything you can refer? I clicked on the picture for the men’s shoe but they are not being sold on amazon.

February 17, 2019 at 3:01 pm

Hi Nihi, thanks for your comment. I updated the Amazon links for men’s shoes, so all pairs I have there are available now on Amazon. All these three brands make great walking shoes for both men and women.

October 8, 2018 at 11:12 pm

Super good in depth review. I have a mandatory study abroad for my degree in Bonn Germany and want to have some pretty good outfits I can wear to not feel like an outcast. I’ll look further into these!

September 14, 2018 at 1:06 am

I grew up in the US but visit Belgium for a few months every year. Clothing here is casual but elegant and not expensive! There are high-end shops but on the whole clothing is cheap here. For example, you can buy a nice, decent quality stripped basic shirt that is casual but elegant for maybe 10-25 euros.

I always feel a little inferior here. I mostly wear US brands like LL Bean and Lands’ End and that comes off more sporty than elegant. It’s kind of drab too compared to the clothing here. However, I have never been denied anything here due to my clothing, or anything else for that matter.

September 14, 2018 at 2:07 pm

I think you misread my statement about “being denied access in certain places because of the way you are dressed.” In most places you won’t be denied access, it would be horrible if they did that. However, there are certain places in EUrope (mostly high end restaurants) that require a certain attire. If you show up there dressed in jeans and a t-shirt they will not let you in.

August 4, 2018 at 1:48 pm

I live in Europe. I divide my time between Paris, Zagreb, and Prague although for work I’m frequently in Berlin and Bucharest also. Many of your points are spot on, but you could not be more wrong about sneakers. We wear them EVERWHERE. (Except for places like the opera and to church) The New Balance 574, for example, is a chic choice for women all over Europe. Merrill and Born?! I only see them on American travelers.

Now, the white, flashy American sneaker? That is not a fashionable choice in Europe, for sure. But cute, dark colored sneakers? You see them on all of the chic girls.

August 4, 2018 at 5:11 pm

Hi Elle, Thank you for taking time to comment on my post. I am European myself and travel to Europe every year. I am quite aware of the fact that the young generation there tends to follow the American trend and believes that wearing sneakers and ripped jeans everywhere is “cool.” However, that’s not the norm. At least not yet. It’s quite possible that in the next 30-40 years the classy European style of dressing will be replaced by a more sloppy one. For now though, people still dress nicer in Europe than in America.

July 16, 2018 at 3:44 pm

We’re leaving for Bavaria in six short weeks and I am very thankful I came across your article. You’ve provided useful information for both my husband and me (thank you!). I do have a question though – I’m 52 and love wearing jeans (not ripped). I planned to bring a dark wash blue and black skinny jean, but now I’m not so sure that’s a good idea. I had planned to dress them up with nice tops, booties & a jacket. But will I look like a fool? Do older (over 50) women wear jeans? Will my husband look dumb too?

July 16, 2018 at 8:40 pm

Hy Pollyanna, I’m glad you found my article of help. I actually mentioned the jeans somewhere in my post and even have a picture of a young woman wearing jeans and boots. I am actually older than you and I love wearing jeans.

Depending where you are in Europe, wearing jeans is not necessarily out of taste. Especially if you wear them with a nice pair of boots, or some dress shoes and a nice top. Besides, Munich is not exactly Paris or Milan. Germans have a little more relaxed style. Hope you’ll have a great time in Bavaria.

June 18, 2018 at 10:25 am

Thin soled shoes will not give you pain. The more “minimalist” your shoes are, the more comfortable they will be. Your feet will strengthen eventually, so you won’t need all that support and motion control. Thank me later.

June 18, 2018 at 11:06 am

I wish you were right, Nathan, but my experience proves differently. I love thin soles and delicate shoes, but unfortunately they are good just for show off, not for long walks on the European streets. If you talk to any podiatrist he will tell you the same thing: that shoes with cushion protect your feet. The pressure you put on your feet when you walk on high heels or very thin soles irritate the nerves that lead to the toes.This irritation triggers the thickening of the nerve tissue, though causing a “neuroma.” I’ve learned my lesson the hard way. After each trip to Europe I would return home and run to the podiatrist’s office for a cortisone shot in my feet. Despite his advice, the following year I would go back to my fancy thin-sole sandals. After a few years of stubbornness I ended up with neuroma surgeries on both feet.

May 3, 2018 at 8:17 am

Hi! I’ve been reading lots and lots of articles as of what to wear in Europe. I’m traveling soon to western European trips and I’ve been worried that if what I’m going to wear is frowned upon. I don’t own any long dresses or long skirts. So I was wondering if it’s okay to wear skirts then wear stockings or tights underneath it? We are visiting various religious sights, would they allow me in if I have a skirt on with tights covering my knees?

May 3, 2018 at 9:25 am

Absolutely. You can wear stockings or tights and skirts, no problem.

March 24, 2018 at 7:49 pm

We are traveling abroad this year for several weeks with our kids (ages 12 and 10). Could you offer some tips for them? My daughter is VERY sporty and not accustomed to dresses or frills. Would my son be ok in nicer linen shorts? To us that’s somewhat fancy but still comfortable.

March 25, 2018 at 7:02 pm

Hi Becky, I think 10 and 12 years old are still kids, so they would probably get by with less formal clothes than adults. However, if you plan to go to fancy restaurants or attend some cultural events, they should definitely dress appropriately (more elegant). For your daughter a white pair of pants with a nice top and some ballet flats would work great. For your son, knee length linen shorts may work all right during the day time, but not in the evening.I hope this helps.

Elaine Masters

February 25, 2018 at 7:35 pm

I spend so much more time packing when I go to Europe than any other destination! These are great tips that I wish more tourists, especially from the US, would pay attention to. It’s true as well that especially in Paris, no matter what I might wear, I’ll feel underdressed. Tant Pis! My motto is to dress to see and not be seen (necessarily.)

February 25, 2018 at 10:32 pm

Hahaha, I hear you, Elaine!

February 10, 2018 at 11:53 am

Hello, Anda! I discovered your post researching about what to wear in Europe in the spring. Your article is very informative. Thank you! May I pls. know the brand of those brown ankle length women’s boots you showed here? I’m currently on the hunt for a stylish, comfortable footwear. Thanks much!

February 10, 2018 at 11:59 am

Thank you for your comment, Ella. Those are Pikolinos. They are extremely soft and flexible. Excellent for long walks, yet very stylish.

Jo Americano

January 6, 2018 at 11:13 pm

I was going to spend a few hundred dollars to avoid being frowned upon by judgmental strangers (the double standard of accepting any cultural wear tourists may wear to america but having to change your own culture when you travel…) but then I realized I could just be myself and not care what other people think for free. And I won’t even have to tithe because my Apparently God doesn’t invite you into his house in Europe unless he’s impressed by the material wealth you flaunt on your feet!

July 11, 2018 at 8:37 am

Spoken like a true “Merkin” Ignorance is bliss as they say.

Thedollysmama

March 20, 2023 at 8:45 pm

Oh, Dolores, you need to google the definition of ‘merkin’. I think you meant ‘Murican’. A merkin is a ‘pubic wig’, very different thing entirely!

June 11, 2017 at 5:38 pm

Hi, what is brand and model of first shoe you posted under women section? Thanks!

June 11, 2017 at 6:12 pm

Those are Pikolinos, but I can’t see the model written anywhere. They are extremely comfortable and can be worn even in a colder season (like spring and fall) with a pair of socks.

February 9, 2017 at 2:31 pm

Very useful tips! I have the same impression that clothing in Europe is more expensive than it is in the States, even when it comes to the exact same brands and sales/outlets. But on the other hand, I believe, in Europe you could find more small local boutiques (some family-owned for generations) where one might buy smth that would really last. I´ve also bought a pair of random boots in Rome once and after years of wearing them they look better than some of the high-end worldwide known brands I have. And absolutely agree that in different European countries it might be harder/easier to fit in… I lived in Berlin and that one day you wear heels – you immediately look overdressed, while every time I come to Italy I feel like I don’t have enough clothes lol

Kind regards from Spain, Anna

February 9, 2017 at 2:40 pm

Thanks for your comment, Anna. If you live in Europe, you know better how easily it is to look underdressed in some cities. Overall though, no matter where you are in Europe, people look more put together and nicely dressed than in most parts of the USA.

January 19, 2017 at 5:19 pm

Awesome post! I had a quick question, do you know what kind of shoes the brown ones are (the big picture below the three smaller pictures of shoes for women)? Thanks so much! Alyson

January 19, 2017 at 10:52 pm

Those I Born, Alyson. Born makes extremely comfortable yet very stylish walking shoes. I strongly recommend this brand. Also, the Clarks are excellent for travel. Thanks for commenting on my post.

January 7, 2017 at 12:08 pm

I have a serious foot problem and must wear thick orthotics. They really do not fit into anything except extra depth tennis shoes. Any suggestions?

January 8, 2017 at 1:07 pm

I wear orthotics too, Ann. I don’t know how thick yours are, but mine are designed according to the shoes. I even wear orthotics in my high heel shoes (the ones I wear for only 2-3 hours when I go to a special event).

October 16, 2016 at 3:05 pm

December 27, 2016 at 4:10 am

Here is just a bit of my 2cents on the subject: “Keep leather, cashmere, denim, cotton and linen, but reconsider synthetics.” While this is quite true for Italian people, you would wondering stares in northern Europe. Synthetics are everywhere. Leather is nice, bit only when its cold – and norvegians dont freeze so easily. Thats why you can see mini skirts all years round with proper warm pants under them if needed. There is just one point where you are perfectly right: Europeans wear shorts and flip flops only on the beach, but not in the streets. And if we see a (mostly russian) tourist in bathing suit and naked chest – preferable wet from tip to toe – in a Thai shopping mall, we are near vomiting. And speaking of Thais… in the north you will see 80% wearing flip flop on the streets, not so in Bangkok. So Marta is right in saying you can’t throw all Europeans into one box. You must differentiate a lot. We have very distinct cultures here.

December 27, 2016 at 9:54 pm

My post is not an analysis of the European culture and its diversity, nor is it a generalization of the dress code in Europe. These are basic recommendations for those who travel to Europe and want to look nice and well put together. A guide for people who want to blend in rather than stand out as tourists. As someone who was born and raised in Europe and travels there every year, I’m pretty aware of the fact that many young Europeans slobber over looking like a Gringo and dress sloppy, but that doesn’t define Europe. As for your ‘2cents’, they don’t make much sense when you bring Asia into this conversation.

September 5, 2016 at 3:40 am

Thanks for your informative article. I’m kind of lost when it comes to dressing properly in a big city.

April 10, 2016 at 11:15 am

Great post! I swear by the scarf anytime I travel anywhere! They are so versatile! The struggle is real to find comfortable shoes to walk around a European city all day and also not look like a hobo though. Thanks for the great tips.

April 10, 2016 at 7:24 am

I was pretty gobsmacked to read this article. Living in Europe all I see is people wearing shorts, t shirts and jeans. Really our fashion is very similar to American fashion unless you’re in expensive hotels/eateries in Rome, Paris or Milan! The only time I would dress as you recommend is if I was going on a night out, out for a fancy dinner or to the theatre – and almost everyone I know would agree.

April 9, 2016 at 4:11 pm

Love this post so much, I love Europe and dressing up appropriately when travelling, nothing screams tourist like some t shirt and shorts with flipflops! A scarf or hat for those bad hair days are a must for me as well. I’m always looking for comfortable but stylish shoes and you have some neat options here!

April 9, 2016 at 4:00 pm

Being a European and travelling in Europe quite a lot… I read this post opening my eyes really widely. Some of the comments surprised me even more 🙂 At first I thought you might be talking about big fashion capital like Paris or Milan, where I haven’t been for quite a few years, but then when you mentioned Eastern Europe (where I live) I found it really, really strange. Come to think of it, I dress like a tourist in my own hometown, more – I can see other local people dressed like tourists.

The funny thing is that I actually quite often dress the way you recommend, but at the same time I dress the way you advise against and I can see I’m not any different from the people around me – it just depend what you do, where you work etc.

However, I’ve never been to the USA so unfortunately I cannot compare 🙂

April 10, 2016 at 12:08 am

I don’t know where in Europe you live, Monica, but I haven’t seen people in shorts and flip flops anywhere there (not even in the countryside.) From big metropolitan areas to small provincial towns, people in Europe dress nicely. That doesn’t mean that you are not going to see a pair of jeans here and there, but the overall impression you get when you travel to Europe is what I describe in my post. To have a better understanding of the comparison I’m making, you should probably come visit America.

April 10, 2016 at 1:47 am

When it is hot in summer I usually go outside Europe on my holiday so I’m not so sure about flip-flops and shorts 🙂 I would find beach flip-flops awfully uncomfortable in the city and shorts in the city are for teenage girls in my opinion 😀 Open toes, jeans and T-shirts? They’re everywhere. But I guess you’re right, I should probably go visit the USA to understand it better 🙂 I live in Poznań (Poland) – it’s a city right in the middle between Berlin and Warsaw. But as I say, I never think that I should wear different clothes in other places – it only depends on the weather and what I’m going to do. However, I guess tourists are excused when putting comfort over elegance even because they walk more and do different things.

April 10, 2016 at 2:18 pm

Monica, how you choose to dress when you travel is up to you. If you want to dress smart and elegant, that’s considered a plus in Europe (unlike in America where nobody cares). This post was meant as a tool for those who want to look and feel good when they visit Europe.

April 10, 2016 at 4:40 am

Dear Monica, I’m from Central (in my opinion) Europe (Poland) and I think the point here is other style of jeans e.g. We dress all those things but in other style. We don’t dress baggy unless we meant to dress “oversize”.

April 9, 2016 at 12:34 pm

Having visited Europe a number of times now, the differences in the fashion between guys from the US and guys from EU are strikingly different in many ways. I’m always a shorts guy back in the states (I’m from Texas, it’s a necessity!), but always leave them behind when traveling abroad.

April 10, 2016 at 12:20 am

There is nothing wrong with your Texan cloths, Justin. In fact I love that style, but when you travel you want to blend in, not be spotted as a tourist.

April 6, 2016 at 7:59 pm

This is such a useful post! When I was first traveling in my early 20s, I used to not care about how I dress. I thought it was rather superficial. But then I landed in Tokyo for the first time —- and boy, did I feel so insecure! Even though I thought I dressed up pretty well in a jeans and a North Face jacket (cringe), I felt like such a country bumpkin amidst all the fashionable Tokyo men and women.

Good thing when I went to Europe for the first time I have already developed a bit of class. Dressing well and appropriately is not just about caring what people think — it does enhance the experience, and as you pointed out, you get good service and a good table. It also shows that you respect the culture, especially when you try to go to certain establishments like theatre.

Definitely learned a lot from this post and will keep it handy for when I’m next heading to Europe. 🙂

April 7, 2016 at 1:50 am

Thank you, Liz. I’m glad if I could bring anything new to the table.

Suze - Luxury Columnist

April 3, 2016 at 2:54 pm

You make such a good point about scarves, Anda – I’m here in Andalusia at the moment and it’s quite chilly in the morning and evening, I wish I’d brought more of them!

April 3, 2016 at 11:30 pm

I don’t think you can have too many scarves when you travel, Suze.

Lyn @thetravellinglindfields

April 3, 2016 at 2:22 pm

Striking a balance between comfort and elegance is a topic close to my heart. We like to be active when we travel, even if that just means walking huge distances rather than hoping in and out of taxis. Sometimes it is hard to look reasonable without risking being too hot, too cold or having aching feet. It always surprises me how casually Americans dress for dinner (not at flash restaurants but just about everywhere else) but I do find the casual styles great for long days on the tourist trail. We have not been to Europe for quite a few years but your comments definitely resonate with memories of our last trip to Buenos Aires when I think I looked like a bag lady most of the time.

April 3, 2016 at 11:39 pm

The older I get, the more comfortable I want to feel when I travel Lyn. However,you can feel comfy in nice cloths as well as in sloppy one and believe me, nothing feels so good as looking good.

Ruth - Tanama Tales

April 2, 2016 at 10:24 am

I made a lot of mistakes when I visited Europe as a college student. My attire consisted of jeans, t-shirts and sneakers. But, the thing is that nobody instructed me on how to dress properly in this area of the world (and the Internet was in its infancy during those years). Now, I usually take dresses, long pants and nice blouses. And, I take scarfs too since they can change the appearance of an outfit in one second. My biggest headache is shoes. I usually have problems finding a pair that is comfy but nice looking at the same time.

April 3, 2016 at 11:51 pm

Yea, I agree with you, Ruth. Nice and comfortable shoes are hard to find and they are a must when you travel.

April 2, 2016 at 6:15 am

This is the best packing post I’ve seen, Anda. I even showed it to my husband, who is quite looking forward to the day that he needs to buy dressier clothes for a trip to Europe. When I traveled to Europe in my 20s, I did okish because I wore lots of darks and neutrals, but I did wear jeans. I remember people laughing at my countrymen who wore spring colors in winter. Now, living in the tropics, I dress like a bum, but I hope to have some dress-up time in a cooler climate in the future.

April 4, 2016 at 12:01 am

You probably miss a little dressing time if you live at the tropics, Karen. I remember enjoying the tropics but looking forward to going back home where I can dress up nicely.

Connie Reed

April 1, 2016 at 7:49 pm

This is great information, Anda. My first trip to Europe was to my daughter’s wedding in Paris about twelve years ago. She told me then not to bring sneakers or bluejeans. I see that one of your photos includes bluejeans. Are jeans acceptable now?

April 1, 2016 at 10:55 pm

The photo with jeans was used to illustrate what NOT to wear in Europe, Connie.

April 10, 2016 at 2:44 am

I am European, I used to live in Poland, Germany and the UK, currently in Switzerland. I visited almost all countries in Europe. And as long as I can agree to many advices above, the blue jeans advice is a lie, sorry. Everyone wears blue jeans here. No, not to Opera or fancy restaurant or client-focused work, but anything then this – blue jeans is a daily outlook and nobody will look touristy just because of wearing jeans. This will just look normal and not fancy/exclusive.

April 10, 2016 at 2:12 pm

I think you didn’t understand what you were reading. Nowhere in this post did I say that jeans are inappropriate in Europe. Shorts, T-shirts, sweat pants, baggy cloths, sneakers, converse and flip-flopsre the only NO-NO items listed here.

January 30, 2017 at 11:28 am

I think she was referring to the photo included with the scarves section…

April 10, 2016 at 4:35 am

Dear Connie, I am European so I can explain you the difference: in Europe, of course, we dress jeans almost daily but they look way different than a photo in this post. Our jeans are usually one-colored (so no brighter parts), dark (dark blue, black, dark grey), even if they’re in light colors they usually white or light grey, they have to fit (but don’t have to be tight, they just cannot be baggy). So they are almost boarding elegance. And you have to consider kind of event: if it’s really chic restaurant, you should consider dress (not too short) or pants other than jeans. If it’s less chic (let say: typical evening with friends) but still not a fastfood or ‘milkbar’ it’s enough to dress those jeans a little bit up: nice blouse and jacket or blazer, no sporty shoes, definately no flip-flops. In other cases we dress those jeanse with a pair of (really clean) pair converse, some t-shirt (also well-fitted, not baggy). This is kind of rule: we don’t wear baggy if we don’t mean to wear “oversize”.

Rhonda Albom

April 1, 2016 at 4:11 pm

This is great, and the complete opposite of how I am packing for our upcoming 45 day America adventure. I was very glad to read that America is still about comfort. My goal, although yet to be determined if I will succeed, is all carry on. A mix of smart-casual and comfort, and everything can be layered. Good thing I am not headed to Europe right now – of course I would be packing differently.

April 1, 2016 at 11:16 pm

Truth is Rhonda that no matter how much I like to dress up for Europe, I feel way more comfortable when I am in the States. Here nobody judges you too harsh for wearing comfy clothes.

April 1, 2016 at 10:46 am

Anda, this is one of the most informative and useful posts I have seen in a while and I especially appreciate that it was written from the perspective of one who grew up in Europe. While I don’t mind being an American, I prefer to blend into the surroundings rather than wear something that immediately brands me as one and screams “TOURIST!”

Shoes are my biggest issue; it’s frustratingly difficult to find comfy walking shoes that fit my small, narrow feet. I’m definitely going to have to search out Born; I’ve not tried them yet.

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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. Prepaid Europe SIM Phone Card

Don’t pay the ridiculous roaming rates that your current provider will charge you when traveling abroad. This is a simple and easy way to have a local number and high-speed data on your phone the moment you get off the plane in Europe. We used it heavily on our last 2 week trip through France and Italy and it worked perfectly. In fact, this one is compatible with 30 European countries and comes with 20GB of data! All you need is an unlocked phone for it to work. Voila!

13. Luggage Straps

As a fairly underrated travel accessory, luggage straps are a must-have item for any traveler. They will ensure you don’t fall victim to the nightmare of having your suitcase bust open during transit, leaving all of your dirty laundry on display because of a faulty zipper or lock.

These heavy-duty straps can withstand more than 700 lbs of force-tension and will extend the life of your luggage since your bags won’t have to work as hard to hold all of your European souvenirs together! My favorite perk is that it’s way easier to spot your suitcase in a crowd of conventional bags – between the bright colors and built-in ID card, your cases will be easier to identify as you hop between airports, train stations, ports, and buses (where often, thousands of bags are all thrown together or consolidated). These belts are TSA-approved and offer real peace of mind as you repeatedly hand over your items on an international journey.

14. Discounted Tickets on European Attractions

Whether you are climbing the famous Eiffel Tower , trekking the Acropolis of Athens , standing in awe of the Roman Colosseum , or witnessing Barcelona’s Sagrada Familia – Europe has a plethora of history and magic to offer you. Where else can you swim in a geothermal spa , explore medieval castles , or stare into the eyes of Da Vinci‘s beloved Mona Lisa ?

Get Your Guide is our favorite booking service for top-tier excursions that really bring your trip to life. Building a dream itinerary is easy since you can compare reviews to ensure you’re reserving the best activities. GYG even offers cancelation up to 24-hours before your tours, making it a flexible option for all adventurers.

See all European attractions at GetYourGuide.com ➜

15. Packing Cubes

Europe has so many climates (cool, desert, alpine tundra, highland, and Mediterranean) . Prepare for any scenario with these packing cubes that are a total game-changer! You can easily categorize your suitcase for a stress-free traveling experience (use one cube for tops, one for bottoms, one for dresses, swimsuits, etc.) Gone are the days of digging through your luggage to find that long-lost sock . We also love the two bonus laundry bags that keep your dirty clothes from intermingling with your clean ones.

It’s available on HeroTravelSupply.com with an exclusive 15% discount using the coupon code “ HERO ”.

Or view on Amazon.com ➜

16. Cooling Towel

Does anyone else get a bit crabby when they get hot? (Hands please!) This cooling towel is great for the entire family because I think we all hate memories of near melt-downs in 90-degree weather. All those potentially disastrous moments — waiting in line to see Big Ben with crying little ones with no shade in sight… or walking to get the Barcelona Metro mid-August in a humidity-induced daze have since faded away merely because I discovered this remarkable little towel! It’s non-toxic, chemical-free and once you wet the material, the ice-cold cooling effect lasts for 30-60 minutes before you simply wet it again to restart the process.

17. Motion Sickness Patches

For those that suffer from motion sickness, these Anti-Nausea Motion Sickness Patches are amazing for planes, trains, and automobiles! Winding European roads can be especially curvy with lots of bends and turns, many of them carved into the sides of vertigo-inducing mountains. These patches are a miraculous herbal remedy that saved me on many occasions – trust me, they work. Don’t call in seasick or carsick to your vacation, use these instead.

18. Luggage Locks

These TSA-approved luggage locks will protect your valuables from getting stolen while your luggage is in transit. I also like to use one on my backpack while exploring crowded cities to keep pickpockets’ hands out of my stuff and they’re perfect for locking lockers in hostels or tourist sites. I seriously never travel without at least one or two combination locks, it truly helps with my peace of mind.

19. Travel Daypack

If you’re planning any day trips, a good foldable daypack should be at the top of your packing list. This Venture Pal backpack is the perfect blend of features, quality and affordability. We’ve found it to be comfortable, durable, and has numerous little compartments for all our needs. It’s also super lightweight and folds into itself so that you can store it easily when you’re not using it. Available in many colors.

20. Wellies (AKA Rain Boots)

Wellies are essential footwear for Europe since many hot spots are rainy year-round (London, Paris, Zurich, Milan, etc.) But even sunny destinations have a wet season. These rain boots are made to withstand the elements, keeping your feet dry in surprise downpours and combating any muddy terrains with non-slip traction. Add waterproof shoe bags to your suitcase to ensure you don’t get any dirt, mud, or street funk on your clean clothes!

21. Water Bottle with Built-in Filter

Water quality is tough to predict in many parts of Europe – some places have delicious, drinkable tap water. Others have little to no drinkable water available without buying expensive pre-bottled water that is bad for the environment. I always recommend that travelers bring their own water bottles with a filter, to ensure that their water is comfortable to drink. This water bottle has a built-in filter so all you have to do is fill and drink.

22. Gorgeous Outfit

Europe’s restaurant scene is killer , and there are endless opportunities to enjoy the nightlife. Even if I’m planning a fun family trip, I always pack at least one or two outfits that I would feel beautiful wearing in the evenings. It’s not always easy for me to find clothes on Amazon that I like, but I LOVE this jumpsuit because it’s easy to pack, doesn’t wrinkle if it’s tossed into my bag, and looks great on so many body types.

23. Women’s Comfy Flats

Many say that Europe is best enjoyed on foot. From museums to cafés to just taking in the architecture, you will be walking A LOT. Summer months can be hot with high chances of humidity and rain. You’ll want something breathable and comfortable, especially if they get wet in a sudden downpour. These Crocs (yes, Crocs?!) are actually super cute cozy and cool on muggy days. They are my feet’s most-loved flat choice.

24. Activated Charcoal (Food Poisoning Fix)

Europe boasts countless adorable restaurants and cafés, but… many won’t be as clean as the places you frequent at home and food poisoning happens. The most surprising was when I actually got SO sick from a $250 Michelin-rated meal in London. (Ok, I did eat roast pigeon, but I thought while in London, why not try some of the local fare!) Please don’t ruin your trip by not bringing these along. They will shorten the duration of the food-borne illness dramatically and in many cases, can alleviate the problem immediately.

25. Cheers Hangover Relief

These supplements use vitamins and liver-detoxing herbs like milk thistle to remove alcohol from the body more quickly. Asher and I aren’t big drinkers, but the wine in Europe is divine. When making the most out of pub tours, vineyard stops, and gourmet dining – keep your body in tip-top shape with these hangover-prevention pills. You don’t want to spend long days in museums or on historical tours with a looming headache and fatigue. If you’re planning to drink, give them a try!

26. Deodorant Wipes

Europe in the Summer is a hot and muggy wonderland. While you’re immersed in the historical beauty all around you, you do NOT want to worry about dripping through your couture. I personally hate reapplying deodorant to my already sweaty armpits, and I will no longer succumb to washing my face and underarms in a sink that has no paper towels to dry myself. These non-toxic, natural wipes do the trick! They fit nicely in my purse or day pack, and with a quick wipe, I’m as fresh as a daisy!

27. Rolling Suitcase

Choosing a good suitcase is like choosing a good partner – both will need to be durable, reliable, secure, and ready to come on many adventures with you (and look good while doing it!) The apple of my eye is this Wrangler Rolling Suitcase . It is massive and really exceeded my expectations. Made of 100% nylon, it has the lightness of a duffle bag but the sturdiness of a regular suitcase. It will be a breeze to maneuver through crowded airports and cobblestone streets (or hauling up typical 5-story buildings with no elevator; you will thank us). Arrive at your hotel in utter comfort, at an even more comfortable price!

28. Reusable Wine Bags (Leak-Proof)

Since these prevent bottle breakages in transit, these reusable leak-proof bags are great for drinkers and non-drinkers alike. I use them for souvenirs and family gifts like French perfume bottles, Italian olive oils, delicate ceramics, literally anything made of glass ! With thick bubble padding and a double seal, you can get a ton of use out of them. And of course, between the Chianti, Bordeaux, Champagne, Cava, and any other European spirit you stumble upon – these will be a thoughtful addition to your checked luggage.

1. Travel Stroller or Double travel stroller

Pro Tip: If you have older children (ages 5+) consider bringing along a double-seated stroller. You’ll be walking miles and miles in Europe and kids get tired easily. Give their little legs a rest and your sleepy tots will probably take a nap on the ride home.

View on Amazon.com ➜

2. Travel Car Seat and Stroller Combo for Infants

Note: All airlines will check your car seat at the ticket counter free of charge. View on Amazon.com ➜

3. Travel Carseat for Toddlers and Little Kiddos

Pro Tip: A Car Seat Luggage Belt is an ultra-portable travel solution to work with what you already have. The strap allows you to attach your car seat to your suitcase. So in a matter of seconds, you have an effortless mode of getting your kids from airport to airport without having to push a heavy stroller around (plus all carry-on luggage). Works like a charm!

4. Stroller Clips

5. Woolino Sleep Sack

It’s a great way to keep babies cozy on an airplane and ensure they feel safe during long travel days. It’s also helpful for unpredictable temperatures in hotels. It’s a bit expensive but also worth it since it replaces loose blankets you would otherwise need in the crib. We don’t have to travel with many blankets, which also keeps our luggage weight down.

6. Baby Bjorn Travel Crib

Pro Tip: Before you travel, have your tot take a few naps using this travel crib and create a consistent routine around it. Your babies will come to perceive it as a place of solace. This at-home practice will be invaluable to them connecting with it in new and unfamiliar settings.

7. Homeopathic First Aid Kit

We try to opt for the homeopathic approach to medicine because it is a natural and often botanical way to treat the underlying cause of conditions – aiming to get you off the medicine sooner rather than becoming reliant upon it. We love that these natural, safe, effective remedies don’t cause harmful side effects and are safe for children. Natural remedies actually stimulate the body’s ability to heal itself and boost your baby’s natural immunity. They have saved us repeatedly during teething, tummy aches, or sickness. I can’t recommend them enough.

• Natural Gas Relief – We have many Hyland baby products and love that they are formed with NO artificial flavors or dyes. They relieve the pains of gas, stomach pressure, burping, constipation and bloating, and restlessness.
• Echinacea Drops – We give our children these immune-boosting drops before any trip and they’ve yet to become sick while traveling. They taste like nature’s candy and can be given to children 6-months+. Crafted with wild echinacea flower, it provides natural health in a bioactive compound.
• Baby Calm – As the name indicates, these tablets are wonderful for calming your little one and keeping them relaxed. For a baby that is restless, teething, or gets fussy and irritable while traveling – these are a lifesaver. They instantly reduce baby’s irritation so everyone can get back to sleep!
• Earache Relief – By age 3-5, nearly every toddler has had an ear infection and it is one of the most common reasons young parents go to the doctor. These all-natural drops are a must-have for parents; they will reduce symptoms like pain, irritability, fever, and sleeplessness, providing a safe application in the form of a dropper.
• Baby Vitamin C – Mary Ruth is one of our favorite brands because it’s organic and what you see is what you get – the only ingredient in this product is organic Vitamin C. It is an incredible immune booster, powerhouse antioxidant, and protects against free radicals. I start to give our children this a few days before we travel.
• Camilia Teething Relief – Prevent teething pain before it begins with these natural relief drops. We aim for homeopathic solutions that target the root cause of the pain instead of just masking the symptoms. These droppers also alleviate digestion issues related to teething, restoring peace for the entire family.

See more tips on traveling with babies in our guide on best baby travel gear ➜

Other Europe Packing List Items Not to Forget

• Travel First-Aid kit
• Compression Flight Socks
• Facial Cleansing Wipes
• Affordable Underwater Camera
• Reusable Travel Wine Bags
• Steripod Toothbrush Cover
• Dental Floss
• Hand Sanitizer
• Mini Hairbrush
• Nail Clippers
• Insect Repellent
• Loofah Glove
• Noise-Canceling Headphones
• Headphone Splitter
• Flash Drive
• Memory Card
• Electronic Organizer Case
• Travel Toilet Paper
• Shoulder Bag Women
• Shoulder Bag Men
• Waterproof Phone Case
• Travel Pillow
• Travel Sheet
• Personal Item Travel Bag
• Passport photos
• Other European packing lists you may like:
• Amsterdam |
• Barcelona |
• Camino de Santiago |
• Castle Trip |
• Copenhagen |
• French Riviera |
• London & UK |
• London Study Abroad |
• Mediterranean Cruise |
• Santorini |
• Switzerland |
• Vatican City |

What Should I Wear in Europe?

Europe’s weather varies a lot by country and by season, so it’s a good idea to do a little research on your specific destinations. Three things you should expect with a trip to Europe are:

Walking: You’ll be doing a LOT of walking. Bring shoes that are comfortable but that still look nice.

Fashion and Style: No, you don’t need to dress like a model, but you should look nice to fit in. Choose mainly dark colors, especially dark jeans if you’re wearing jeans.

The weather often varies a lot across Europe so you will want to pack clothes that are versatile. European women are quite stylish so choose outfits that are more on the smart casual side. Ankle boots are very popular and a pair of nice sneakers or flats are great to have while exploring around. Choose dark colored pants, jeans, or leggings to wear with camis, blouses, long knitted sweaters or cardigans, and dresses. Outside, leather jackets are popular and a scarf is essential. Accessories to add to any outfit include retro shades with a leather saddle bag or vintage rucksack to carry your things. What should MEN wear in Europe? – (Click to expand) Below is a sample men’s clothing list. (All items link to Amazon.com for your convenience).

Packing for the Seasons in Europe

Spring – march, april, may.

Spring counts as one of the shoulder seasons for Europe, and is an ideal time to travel to many locations which will have sparser crowds and still agreeable weather. Although, some places will be wet and dreary at this time, so check the specs on your destination before you pack.

Rain gear is absolutely crucial during spring, so bring a quality windproof travel umbrella and a good rain jacket . Boots are a good idea in most places, just in case you find yourself slogging through mud or wet grass. Temperatures average between 41°F and 58°F (5°C to 14°C).

SUMMER – June, July, August

European summers are lovely, and typically comfortably warm – though parts of Europe can endure searing heat during the peak of summer.

The downside of this nicer weather is that the summer is when most tourists visit, making it high-season. If you can handle the crowds and the inflated prices, it’s a gorgeous season to visit!

You probably won’t need any heavier outerwear unless you’re traveling to destinations farther north or at higher altitudes. Temperatures average between 59°F and 78°F (15°C to 26°C).

FALL – September, October, November

Fall or autumn is the second half of the shoulder season in Europe, and brings milder weather and again, smaller crowds. Prepare for some precipitation (usually drizzle) and chill, but expect tolerable to fair conditions. As always, check on averages for your destinations to be sure!

Autumn in Europe calls for a light jacket , dependable waterproof walking shoes , and a couple of scarves to keep warm should a chillier day arise. Temperatures average between 45°F and 60°F (7°C to 16°C).

WINTER – December, January, February

Winter in many areas of Europe is cold, but generally mild. Depending on your location, you may experience anything from chilly seaside winds to blustery gales and everything in between. Mostly, you’ll see days that chill you and necessitate hot chocolate and warm jackets .

Churches – Europe doesn’t disappoint when it comes to the number of beautiful, magnificent churches and other holy sites. From the medieval cathedral of Notre-Dame de Paris to the world’s largest church at St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City, and the 700-year-old Westminster Abbey in London, there’s a lot to see! With any religious site, it is important to dress conservatively. Shoulders need to be covered and women should avoid wearing anything with a deep v neck or tops that expose the midriff or back. Dresses, skirts, and shorts can be worn if it goes below the knee. Keep in mind, many places have now banned selfie sticks so leave them at home.

Museums and Galleries – You can find some of the world’s best museums in Europe. What was once a medieval fortress now houses the most famous painting, Leonardo Da Vinci’s Mona Lisa, at the Louvre in Paris, France. There’s also the Rosetta Stone at The British Museum in London, and insights into Athenian life at The Acropolis Museum in Athens. Dress smart casual if you are planning to visit any museums or galleries. It can often get quite chilly so bring a shawl or sweater to stay warm. You will also be doing a lot of walking, so make sure to wear comfortable shoes such as flats, loafers, or sneakers. Museums tend to be very quiet so avoid anything with a heel that makes a lot of noise while walking.

Eating Out – Europe is a food lover paradise offering the best of French, Italian, Greek, and Spanish cuisine just to name a few. From traditional markets offering local products to the best of fine dining, you can find an array of foodie experiences. If you are looking for the best of the best, book a reservation at a Michelin starred restaurant such as Arpège in Paris, The Ledbury in London, or La Pergola in Rome. Europeans tend to dress up in the evenings so pack a few nicer pieces for dining out. Men can wear leather shoes with trousers or dark fitted jeans with a button up shirt and blazer jacket. Women can wear wedges or a pair of nice flats with maxi dresses for warm weather or dark slim fit trousers with a nice blouse on top and a few accessories during colder months.

What NOT to Take to Europe

1. don’t bring lots of electronics.

I recommend packing a camera and a Kindle , and maybe your laptop, but don’t bring much more than that. Unless you have other electronics you’ll really need on your trip, it’s just not worth the risk of them being lost or stolen.

2. DON’T PACK a bath towel

It’s a good idea to bring a towel with you to Europe, but regular towels are bulky and heavy, and take way too long to dry. Take a quick-dry travel towel instead – they’re much lighter and smaller, but still plenty absorbent.

3. DON’T TAKE expensive jewelry

Similarly, you don’t want to risk valuable or sentimental jewelry getting lost or stolen on the road. Plus, wearing a lot of flashy jewelry can make you a target. Pack a couple of pieces you’ll want to wear on your trip, and leave the rest at home.

4. DON’T BRING lots of cash

Except for in very rural areas, nearly any place you visit in Europe will have ATMs, and many spots take credit cards, too. There’s no need to take a ton of cash and risk it being lost or stolen.

5. DON’T PACK a bunch of books

Some hostels and cafes in Europe have book exchanges where you can pick up a free paperback and drop it off at a future exchange when you’re done. Or, you can simply load up a Kindle , and do your reading on a lighter device that’s easier to pack.

6. DON’T TAKE a Europe-wide guidebook

Lonely Planet and many other publications have a guidebook that covers all of Europe, but they rarely have sufficient detail on any individual place. Do your generic Europe research online, and get the guidebooks for the specific countries or regions you’ll be visiting.

7. DON’T TAKE too many clothes

Pare it down to a few outfits, and if you run out of things to wear, it’s not hard to find a place to do laundry in most parts of Europe.

8. DON’T PACK overly casual clothes

Europeans tend to dress well and dress up more than North Americans do. While you’ll want some casual clothes for hanging around your hostel or hitting the pool or beach , I’d suggest bringing slightly nicer clothing for your Europe trip.

FAQs About Trips to Europe

1. is the tap water in europe safe to drink.

You can drink the tap water in most of Europe. However, that is not true for countries in the Balkans and the Former Soviet Union. In those areas, travelers should be careful to avoid tap water unless it has been treated. In Eastern Europe, you may also want to avoid untreated tap water outside the major cities to be safe. With this being said we recommend you always use a filtered water bottle to be sure.

2. How prevalent is English in Europe?

Among European countries, English is the primary native language only in the U.K. and Ireland, but it is widely spoken as a second language elsewhere. In Nordic countries and the Netherlands, a large portion of the population speaks English well, even in smaller towns. In Western Europe, you won’t have much trouble finding English speakers in major towns or popular tourist sites, and most people who work in the tourism industry speak English.

The farther east you go, however, the less English you’ll encounter (though hotel staff still commonly speak English). English speakers can certainly still travel in those countries, it just might be a bit more challenging.

3. What countries in Europe are the cheapest to visit?

In general, Eastern Europe is significantly cheaper than Western Europe. Hungary, Bulgaria, Romania, Poland, and the Czech Republic are especially popular budget travel destinations, but Slovakia, Serbia, Latvia, and Ukraine are also very cheap to visit.

4. Is it safe for women to travel alone to Europe?

Yes! Women should have no more fear about traveling alone than men should – especially when traveling to places in Europe. Stay in areas that are safe for tourists, don’t flaunt the fact that you’re a tourist, and take standard safety precautions with your money. The one thing that may be more applicable to women than to men is that you shouldn’t go walking alone at night, but that’s standard anywhere.

Don’t carry excess cash, take familiar routes when possible, try to avoid out-of-place clothing, and relax! You’re more likely to blend in instead of sticking out as a tourist if you look like you belong there. It will likely make you more comfortable to research current country-specific travel notes here .

5. What vaccines or medicines should I get before traveling to my destination?

Since each country will have its own regulations and mandates, stay up-to-date through the CDC’s Destination Tool . It allows you to select the countries you are visiting and check real-time updates on the vaccines and medications that you need for your next trip. It is also recommended to consult a physician at least one month before you depart to ensure you are current on all required vaccines and medicines for that particular destination.

If you are traveling to several countries with unique vaccine requirements, confirm the cross-over and discuss your specific travel plans with your doctor. If you’re only in a country for a short duration or you’re only remaining in the touristic area near the coast (for example, while cruising ), certain vaccines may not be necessary.

6. Is it worth getting a Eurail pass?

Europe’s train systems are highly lauded, and many backpackers and other travelers in Europe plan their trips around riding the train from country to country. But many find themselves wondering, “Is a Eurail pass worth it?” Whether a pass is the cheapest option depends on how many train rides you’ll be taking, where you’ll be riding, and how far in advance you could book tickets.

In general, a pass will save money if you’re visiting a lot of different countries and/or taking long train rides, while buying individual tickets is cheaper if you’re booking far in advance or if you’re traveling exclusively in Eastern Europe. But, one of the biggest perks of using a pass is the flexibility: last-minute train tickets are expensive, so if you want to be able to travel with more spontaneity, a pass is the way to go.

7. Do I need to tip in restaurants in Europe?

Restaurants in Europe often note on the menu or bill that a service charge is included, in which case an additional tip is not necessary. Otherwise, tipping is not required but it’s customary to round up the bill. If you do decide to tip, make sure to do it in cash and hand it directly to your server. The major exception to this rule is Scandinavian countries, where tipping is not generally practiced.

8. What is the best way to get around Europe?

Public transportation is well developed throughout most of Europe, and it’s generally easy to get from country to country. Most trains in Europe are comfortable and efficient, and train travel is probably the most popular way to get around, whether you opt for a Eurail pass or individual tickets (see above). For most routes, though, the bus is cheaper than the train, and Eurolines is the main network of international buses in Europe. With budget airlines like Ryanair and EasyJet, flying between countries can be an affordable option, too; just check Google Flights or a site like Kayak to see all the flight options.

9. Where can travelers get off the beaten path in Europe?

In general, Western Europe is much more traveled than Eastern Europe, and capital cities and historical sites are often heavily visited. To get off the beaten path, head to rural areas or to countries in the Balkans or the Former Soviet Union, which see relatively little tourism.

10. Do I need a visa to visit Europe?

To visit countries in the Schengen Area, which currently includes 26 European countries, citizens of the U.S., Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, and most of Central and South America do not need a visa for tourist visits of up to 90 days (within any 180-day period). The U.K. is not part of the Schengen Area, and allows citizens of most of the same countries to visit visa-free for up to six months. Check here to verify the current requirements.

11. What is the best time of year to visit Europe?

In general, the best seasons to visit Europe are the spring and fall, particularly in May, June, and September. During these months, prices are lower than during peak season, and the weather is agreeable in most areas.

12. Are there any good Mediterranean cruises?

Absolutely! Apart from the Caribbean, we believe the Mediterranean is the best place to do a cruise. Why? Well it’s simple, you often get to see six different countries in the space of 10-days and many itineraries have only a couple of cruising days. This means you can be out exploring the ports every day and finding the best food and best excursions to do while enjoying such an array of different cultures in such a short time. If you’re wondering what to pack for a cruise , read our full guide.

13. Are there any recent travel restrictions to be aware of?

The European Union (the political union of 27 major European countries) applied a wide range of safety measures regarding the COVID-19 pandemic. These requirements have varied from negative diagnostic tests to not allowing in non-citizens for non-essential travel, essentially locking down the borders.

As of late 2022, Travel restrictions are lifting more and more – France, Finland, Greece, Croatia, Portugal, Denmark, and others are relaxing the vaccination requirements. Iceland and Norway have removed nearly all COVID-19-related travel restrictions.

If you intend to travel in the E.U., you should check the European Commissioner’s Platform for real-time border updates. You can also visit Travel.State.Gov for a traveler’s checklist on documentation requirements and they are a great resource for Country Specific COVID-19 Information .

14. How can I save money while traveling in Europe?

There are lots of ways to save money in Europe. For starters, stick to hostels or try couch-surfing to cut your accommodations costs. Car rentals and taxis can be pricey, so use trains and buses to get around instead, or just walk. Limit eating out, and pick up groceries for some of your meals; look for hostels or vacation rentals that have kitchens where you’ll be able to cook.

Try eating out at lunch instead of dinner too, as many restaurants in Europe have good-value (and filling) lunch specials. Skip the bottled water, and just bring a reusable water bottle that you can keep filling up. And of course, putting a limit on your alcohol consumption will always save money.

Lyric Fergusson

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Chic & Easy European Travel Packing List

Inspired by a question from long-time reader Jen in Pittsburgh (hi!), I went down a (fun) rabbit hole of searching for the perfect easy-but-chic outfits for travel. She was asking what to pack for Barcelona in late winter, and while that seems a little specific, the more I thought about it, the more I realized the packing list I was pulling together would actually apply to many destinations and seasons. (And it inspired this outfit I recently covered , too!)

What To Pack For A Trip To Europe: My Outfit Approach

The goal when I’m traveling to Europe is always to look chic and cool, to be comfy, and to look decidedly NOT like a standout tourist. And unless I’m heading to the beaches and islands or the very northern parts, I’m probably gonna bring a similar wardrobe to a variety of locales. For my style, that includes versatile pieces that layer well, can be easily dressed up or down, and have a classic, slightly sporty vibe.

While browsing some favorite sites for pieces to include in an actual list, I kept running across inspiring outfits. It hit me that this is probably a great way to approach packing lists from now on. Start with some solid style inspiration and then break down the pieces that you either already own or need to add to your collection to complete the looks. So, here’s the inspiration I started with!

My takeaways from my travel inspiration board were this:

• classic structured jackets to layer
• easy pants that still look polished
• comfy but stylish shoes
• a versatile button down (wear it buttoned up or halfway unbuttoned)
• timeless accessories to top it all off

Of course, it’s hard not to try to solve all the world’s packing list problems every time I come out with one of these articles, but the key is to find those main problem-solving pieces and then you can fill in with your favorite additional items…like a favorite black tee or your everyday gold necklace and earrings.

01 | 02 | 03 | 04 | 05 | 06 | 07 | 08 | 09 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 14

Chic & Easy Outfit Inspo For Your Next European Vacation

I feel most successful with my outfits for travel when I don’t try to bring the trendy pieces I own. Those are fun to try out each season, but usually they’re more difficult to style and not as versatile.

I like that these pieces are all pretty classic. I feel confident they’d take me through many years and that they feel chic but not fussy (that’s always my goal.)

One thing I would add to this list is a gorgeous scarf or wrap. My fav is a lightweight cashmere poncho-style I can wear mostly as a scarf but with the option to wear as a wrap if needed. This is another gorgeous option here .

1 | Everlane The Dream Pants

These Everlane dream pants are fabulous and would be so easy to pack. They are substantial and won’t wrinkle but are still super-comfy. They are versatile and just one of those forever pieces….Plus, they have pockets! TTS. Wearing a S.

2 | J.Crew Cashmere Classic Fit Crewneck

J.Crew makes some of our team’s favorite cashmere and it often goes on sale. These sweaters are light but warm pieces perfect for packing. TTS. Perhaps size up if you know you’ll layer underneath.

3 | Everlane Silky Cotton Relaxed Shirt

I love a classic pinstripe mixed with black pants and shoes, and the trench coat would be the perfect topper over this Everlane button-up. Classic but not boring!

4 | Nordstrom Cashmere Turtleneck

Another team fav in the cashmere category, Nordstrom’s cashmere turtleneck is a closet staple. Soft and lightweight, but also warm, it’s great for layering. Shana likes to wear these silk camis underneath as a layering option.

5 | Everlane The Easy Pant

I have the shorts version of these easy pants from last summer, and the fabric and fit are perfection. TTS and a comfy, but structured elastic waistband that doesn’t bend or fold over. I can’t wait to try these, and I’m hoping they’ll continue to offer more colors.

6 | J.Crew Leather Belt

I adore the belt over the layering jacket in the collage above. This one is similar, and again, classic! You could belt the pinstriped top, too. Being shorter waisted I sometimes have trouble with this accessory, but it looks so great I want to keep attempting it. I think sticking with a bit thinner belt (ie. not any thicker than this one I’ve linked) can be helpful in making it a success.

7 | Everlane Day Glove Flat

Shana has blogged about the Everlane Day Glove flats for years as her favorite go-to flat she could walk all day in.

8 | Everlane Italian Leather Chelsea Boot

I’ve had these Everlane Chelsea boots for a couple of weeks now, and they are so great. The gum sole is a fantastic detail, making the shoes look lighter, and it’s cushiony, too. The fit, height and overall look of these is what I’ve been searching for forever. TTS and a really lovely shoe. (Also in my forever closet .)

9 | Re/Done Stovepipe Black Jean in Comfort Stretch **

I’m not someone that goes anywhere without jeans, but sometimes black jeans can be more versatile than blue denim. I adore these Re/Done Stovepipe jeans and have linked a style in comfort stretch vs my rigid denim, thinking that would be comfier for travel. (I had to go up one size.)

10 | Madewell Oversized Shopper Bag

Madewell’s oversized shopper is structured and chic — not too giant but big enough to carry what you need everyday. The shape and the front phone/mask pocket are what have me ordering it to try. Madewell bags are the best and so well-made. I’d also probably bring a cute classic crossbody (love the option for interchangeable straps). The tote is also available at Nordstrom .

11 | Emerson Fry Layering Jacket **

I have and adore this Emerson Fry wool jacket because it’s warm and stylish, but the poncho/wide + short sleeve style makes it perfect over bulky sweaters or other jackets. I love a layered look but sleeve widths don’t always allow for that. This does! But, right now it’s a bit low in stock. It comes in a gray, too, here or this chic puffer style or this option also caught my eye.

12 | J.Crew Factory Classic Trench

There are few jackets more classic, stylish, or versatile than the trench coat. Find a classic one you love and it will also become a forever closet piece. This one from J.Crew Factory gets good reviews, is a really timeless style, and is a reasonable price, too. It’s been tricky to find any well-stocked trench coats right now. If money is no object, then you simply can’t beat the Burberry Kensington trench , especially to dance around in on a European vacation, but if you can find this Lauren Ralph Lauren option in your size, it’s a stunningly close alternative.

13 | Quay All In 56mm Aviator

A gorgeous pair of sunglasses really tops off a look and I love these from Quay at Nordstrom. I like the brown tortoise to compliment the tones in the belt and trench.

14 | Tretorn Nylite Plus Sneakers

Please dear world of travelers, can we move away from the running-shoe-worn-with-everything phase? I believe in being diplomatic in what I cover here and we never want to say “you must do this or you mustn’t do that”, but honestly one thing that stands out so much when traveling is seeing workout shoes worn with everything. There are a few exceptions to the rule, but…a classic tennis style sneaker, an Adidas Superstar , a Tretorn (like these), an Air Force 1 , a P448 , a Golden Goose …are all going to look way less touristy-American and way more fashion-forward than the literal sneakers you workout in. Sorry sorry…rant over but haha gosh it’s a passion-project of mine 😂

**Indicates meets our requirements for sustainability.

Do you have any favorite pieces that would fit along these lines? I’d love to hear about them. I’m looking forward to continuing to style up the black Dream pants , Chelsea boots and hopefully give you a review on the Madewell bag . And let me know if there are other destinations you would like to see this adjusted for! Happy, happy travels friends. This gal cannot wait to get back out there!

Would love for you to say hi over on my Instagram  @laurajansenstyle  where there are mostly odes to snacks, OOTDs and everyday mom life stuff in Portland, Oregon. xoxo

Oh, hey, Pinners! Thanks for sharing 🙂

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The Ultimate Packing List for Europe: Spring Edition (+ What to Wear)

If there’s one thing we’ve learned about putting together the perfect packing list for Europe in spring, it’s to always expect it to be both colder and rainier than you hope for… especially if, like us, you hail from a climate where summer weather starts sneaking into the calendar as early as March or April.

It’s not all bad news, though–March, April, and May are wonderful months to travel in Europe!

Delectable farmer’s markets, adorable small towns decked out for Easter, coastlines that are slowly waking up from their winter hiatus and aren’t crowded yet, and blooming flowers everywhere you look are just a few of the fun things to see during spring in Europe!

And, after many springs spent hopping around the continent, we have plenty of ideas on how to put together the perfect spring packing list for Europe (many of which come from learning from our mistakes).

We’ve rounded up everything you need to pack for Europe in the spring here–plus some advice on what to wear.

Table of Contents

How to Use This Packing List for Europe in Spring

The absolute essentials for visiting europe in spring, travel gear you should definitely pack for europe this spring, packing list for europe: spring wardrobe for women, packing list for europe: spring wardrobe for men, other travel gear for your europe packing list for spring.

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While we talk mostly in general terms about packing for spring in Europe here, it’s of course important to remember that the continent has a wide variety of landscapes and weather patterns to offer!

Spring in the south of Europe is a totally different temperature than more northern parts of Europe, and the best things to wear in Scotland in March will of course be wildly different than what to wear in Sicily in May.

This packing list is designed to cover packing for Europe in March, April, and May, with an emphasis on visiting central and southern Europe.

Think strolling the streets of Paris, visiting the castles of Germany, or eating your way through Rome –that’s what this guide to what to wear in Europe in spring is designed for.

You will be prepared for spring showers and cold snaps, as well as bright sunny spring days.

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 spring packing list for Europe will provide a great jumping-off point for deciding what to bring (and what to leave behind).

All of the photos of Jeremy and me in this blog post were taken throughout Europe in March, April, or May–and as you can see, that has called for everything from peacoats to sundresses depending on the trip!

(Planning a trip to Europe in a different season? We also have packing lists for visiting Europe in the summer , fall , and winter !)

Passport — If you’re traveling internationally, your passport is an absolute must: there’s no point in packing for Europe in the spring without it!

Travel Insurance — No one like to think about the possibility of canceled or interrupted trips, let alone accidents on the road.

Anything can happen while traveling, though–and that’s where travel insurance can help.

Check travel insurance policy inclusions and prices with Safety Wing  for your trip here.

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 visiting Europe this spring from outside the EU and plan to rent a car, you may need an International Driving Permit to do so!

Italy is particularly 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 use a Sony a7R III  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 the particular countries you visit–the United Kingdom, for example, is well-known for using different plugs than most of the continent.

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! They’ll be coming with us from now on.

They’re incredibly handy and we recommend adding one to your packing list for Europe this spring.

We’ve been carrying ours for years and it still comes in handy constantly and is holding up perfectly!

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.

An umbrella is a must-have on a spring trip to Europe, and by buying a dedicated travel umbrella before you leave, you’ll end up with a much higher quality umbrella than if you buy one from a street vendor once it starts pouring.

Student ID  — If you’re a student, you’ll be entitled to lots of discounts on museums and attractions throughout Europe.

Be sure to add it to your packing list for Europe (but do keep in mind that some student discounts are only available to travelers studying in the EU–double-check before counting on the discounts!).

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), or, if you have an unlocked phone, you can just buy a local SIM card once you land in Europe.

You can also buy EU SIM cards online before you go, though it’s not strictly necessary!

You’ll want to structure your personal wardrobe for traveling in Europe based on where you’re going, of course.

A glamorous trip to Rome calls for different clothes than hiking in Iceland or soaking up the first rays of sun in Greece–but if you’re looking for a great all-in-one spring packing list for Europe, this is it!

Sprin g in Europe is a really special time, places that close down for winter start opening up and preparing for the summer season and the weather starts to have more warm sunny days than cooler.

These picks reflect my personal favorite things to wear in Europe in the spring.

I love wearing dresses in Europe in the spring (and year-round, frankly)!

They’re easy to pack, easy to wear, look great just about anywhere you go, and manage to look pulled together while only requiring one piece of clothing.

When it is a little colder you can add tights and a jacket , layers are key in spring in Europe!

Dresses like this and this are generally what you’ll find me in when traveling through Europe in the spring. Be sure to bring at least one or two maxi dresses ( I love this one , for example), which fulfill the double purpose of being extremely photogenic while allowing you to visit religious sites like churches and mosques without issue.

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 spring absolutely requires a pair of jeans–I’m obsessed with this pair and had them for years, but am branching out with straight-legged jeans now after a decade of skinny jeans.

If it’s not quite warm enough for shorts so jeans are a perfect low-maintenance polished option.

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 is a fashionable and comfortable choice for your Europe spring packing list.

It also provides you with options if it is warmer, then you can forgo the tights.

Bathing Suits

Depending on if you’re planning to visit some warmer beach destinations, I’d pack 2-3 bathing suits for visiting Europe in the spring. I love choices like this and this .

If you’re planning on trying out any active water activities like snorkeling or scuba diving, consider packing at least one one-piece suit , too.

The absolute most important rule when determining what shoes to put on your packing list for Europe this spring is making sure that they’re comfortable to walk in!

I’ve been wearing these white sneakers in Europe during the spring lately and love them, and this pair is another longtime favorite of mine.

Boat shoes are also a great option, and Converse are popular with backpackers and travelers along the tourist trail.

You might also prefer to bring a pair of boots, evenings can still be cold so you will be thankful for something drier and warmer than sneakers! Something like this is perfect.

Spring in Europe is the optimal time to plan for layers.

We once visited the Amalfi Coast and Cinque Terre during an unseasonably cold and rainy May… and we were so glad we had brought layers!

A light jacket like this is also a great option paired with an umbrella in your bag.

If you’re heading to outdoor-focused, more rainy places like Ireland or Scotland, you’ll also want to pack a rain jacket .

Accessories

Sunglasses are essential for traveling in Europe during the spring, that hazy spring sun can be strong!

You can either purchase them ahead of time or plan on picking them up as souvenirs.

Cheap sunglasses are sold on just about every corner in Europe, and designer sunglasses from European brands are generally far cheaper within the EU (I once paid under 200 Euro for a pair of Valentino glasses listed on Saks’ website for $400).

Scarves are also great for having handy if it gets chilly and to layer over a light jacket.

Fitted, casual shirts like this and light sweaters like this are both great options for men when packing for Europe in the spring.

Casual slacks or chinos like these are a versatile and easy option for your spring in Europe packing list.

We recommend bringing at least one pair of fitted jeans like these  as well.

Jeremy tends to opt for light, casual shoes like these during spring in Europe–whatever you pack, just make sure that they’re well broken in and easy to walk in for hours before adding them to your spring packing list for Europe!

Subtle boots like these or classic shoes like these are both good options.

Bathing Suit

If you’re planning on hitting warmer beach destinations in Europe this spring, make sure to bring one or two bathing suits along with you. Suits like this work perfectly.

Depending on the weather for your trip to Europe, you may not need a heavy jacket at all when visiting Europe in the spring.

Jeremy is comfortable in this jacket all the way through most of March, April, and May in Europe , give or take additional layers.

I use them on all boats and the occasional bus, and if things get really bad, take some Non-Drowsy Dramamine as well.

Trust me–you don’t want to miss out on the joys of boating around the Mediterranean due to seasickness!

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.

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 spring, you can consider bringing one.

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 adding our own over-the-counter meds to our Europe packing list.

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.

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European Fashion 2023: What to Wear in Europe to Not Look Like a Tourist

By: Author Karin Leperi

European Fashion – What to Wear in Europe to Not Look Like a Tourist

Yes, you are a tourist. Some people say that it is ok to look like one.

I personally like to blend in and not draw attention to myself. There is always a little feeling of accomplishment when I am walking down the street in some European city, and a local asks me for directions or speaks to me in the local language.

Here are my tips on European fashion, accessories and what to wear in Europe to not look like a tourist – or even better: What not to wear and how to look like a local. 

When traveling to Europe, the key is to blend in with the locals in terms of European dress code and European style. You should not dress as if you’re off to the Oscar’s nor should you look tousled or disheveled, as if you just got out of bed.

What to wear in Europe is also important because the more you look like a tourist, the more likely you’ll be targeted by pickpocketers and scammers. Finding the right outfit depends as much on what to wear as what not to wear in Europe and fit in a little more like a local.

The way you dress is important because it can lead to friendlier service while visiting Europe, and it can serve as protection against being earmarked as an “out-of-towner” by pick-pocketers. Take your cue from the locals and blend in with the current European fashion trends and unique European style.

“The best thing a traveler can do is go to a local clothing store and buy a couple of outfits — then no one will ever mistake you for a tourist,” says travel expert Johnny Jet (aka John E. DiScala).

Most Americans have a certain way of dressing when traveling overseas that screams they are from the States. Don’t be that person.

Whether it is wearing ball caps, sports team shirts, white tennis shoes and socks, well-worn Levi’s, polo shirts, American logos, or backpacks filled with all your important papers and jewelry, these are fashions you may what to change while abroad.

Before coming to Europe, do not forget these 3 important points:

What to wear in europe: 10 ways to dress more with european style when in europe, 1. wear clean-cut conservative clothes.

Another tip: Don’t wear workout clothes and athleisure wear! People will most likely stare at you unless you are actually working out, of course.

When you put your packing list together for what to wear in Europe, try picking up some clothing items at the following stores for fashionable European wear:

H&M — A Swedish clothing company that is popular all over Europe and in the US. Reputation for fast fashion without high price tags.

Urban Outfitters – Urban Outfitters has spread across Europe and can be found in a few countries.

Zara — Located the world over but with a heavy presence in Europe. A Spanish retail store that sells fashionable clothes and some beautiful travel dresses.

Ellos – Founded in 1947, they are Sweden’s leading online department store, with collections that reflect Swedish lifestyle & design aesthetics in sizes 10+. (My favorite)

2. Go Neutral

Ditch the camouflage, loud colors, and dizzy patterns for timeless pieces, wardrobe staples, and conservative colors like black, navy, blue, beige, tan, and gray.

Make sure your clothes fit well and not be loose or baggy, but also not too tight. Wear things you feel comfortable in.

Jeans, especially skinny jeans, are worn by many Europeans, but they don’t make for great travel pants, as they take very long to dry. 

Build a European Fashion capsule wardrobe for your trip with pieces that you can layer and mix and match and wear with each other. 

Wear colors that locals wear. Especially in the colder months, many Europeans wear black or muted colors paired with one or two colorful accessories . For example, brightly-colored and loud Hawaiian shirts should only be worn while on the islands and not while in Europe.

3. Bring comfortable walking shoes

No cheap flip-flops or colorful running shoes, either. White and black sneakers are comfy and common and a great choice for exploring.

European women wear heels a lot, but they are used to walking on cobblestoned streets. We recommend leaving them at home or only bringing them for special occasions when you know you won’t walk too far. 

Keens , Clarks , and Naturalizer make very comfortable walking shoes that will let you put some miles on your feet without a problem. In the colder months, boots are very fashionable and common. Wear them on the plane to cut extra costs for overweight luggage. 

4. Do Europeans Wear Shorts?

Unfortunately, there is no clear-cut answer. It depends. European fashion is usually a bit more conservative, but Europeans actually wear shorts – when they are on vacation or doing outdoorsy activities. Strolling through the city or in a museum? Not so much.

Though you may increasingly find shorts in southern Europe and on younger people, generally speaking, it’s best to wear long/capri pants or skirts and say “no” to shorts. Especially American-style khaki cargo shorts, which are viewed as a trademark of American tourists. If you must wear them, save them for beaches and hikes .

Also, keep in mind that in many countries (mainly Spain, Italy, Portugal, and some parts of Eastern Europe etc.) you will have to cover up when you visit churches or religious places of worship. Usually, the rule is covered below the knee and no tank tops. This rule includes men, women, and children. We recommend carrying a large scarf to cover up. See more info below. 

5. Leave the baseball cap behind

Baseball caps are considered American and will have you stick out in a crowd. The same is true with sun visors – avoid wearing them, except for outdoor activities or on the beach. Those are simply not part of the average European dress code and will make you stand out as a tourist. 

6. Accessorize with scarves

For the ultimate European fashion touch, wear a scarf. That holds true for both men and women. Also, women may want to carry a headscarf for religious visits.

This scarf might be a good investment: It has a secret pocket that can hide your passport, money, or cell phone and is perfect for travelers in Europe.

7. Leave the bling behind

Don’t advertise yourself as a mark by wearing expensive jewels and bling. Instead, travel with costume jewelry – anything you don’t mind losing.

8. Avoid U.S. logos and go slogan-free

Best to avoid advertising you are American by wearing or carrying American logos such as Coach handbags, Nike, Abercrombie, or American football jerseys. Try to go slogan-free to add mystery to where you’re from.

9. Bring a smaller backpack to wear in front

The large backpacks that many Americans wear on their backs are easy targets for thieves. Consider using a smaller pack you can don in front, especially when taking public transportation and when in crowds or at popular tourist spots.

Also, a good idea is to get one of the PacSafe backpacks that have multiple anti-theft mechanisms to keep your belongings safe. Another option is this  over-the-shoulder travel purse by Travelon  that boasts stainless steel wire mesh to prevent slash-and-grab thefts.

10. Be religiously respectable

Avoid sleeveless shirts, shorts, and plunging necklines for the ladies. Dress conservatively in any country with fundamental religious views.

On another trip to the Blue Mosque in Turkey, one of our female members was told her pants were too tight (she was wearing black leggings under a tunic-type travel dress). She was issued a long skirt to wear over them before she could enter the Mosque.

Just be mindful of what the locals are wearing and have a plan b: Pack a scarf or cardigan to cover up if necessary. And maybe this book can help you with some more European-style advice and tips on what to wear in Europe.

European Fashion – What to wear in Europe to not stand out as a tourist – Written by Karin Leperi for EuropeUpClose.com .

European Fashion FAQs

Can you wear sneakers in europe.

Yes, you can. However, I would stick to more muted colors like black, white, navy or tan vs neon-colored sneakers. White sneakers are very popular in Europe at the moment and are often paired with jeans but also cute summer dresses.

Can you wear shorts in Europe?

Yes, you can. However, most Europeans only wear them when on vacation and in more outdoorsy settings, on the beach, or while sightseeing in more rural areas. Most Europeans would not wear them when going out for dinner, inner-city sightseeing, or during city tours, wine tastings etc.

Do you have to cover when visiting churches in Europe?

Yes, in most cases, specifically in Catholic churches. If you are wearing shorts or skirts that end above the knee, or a sleeveless top, I recommend you bring a scarf or two to cover up. This rule also applies to men, women, and children.

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Best Travel Clothes For Europe In Spring

by Melissa Giroux | Last updated Oct 16, 2023 | Europe , Travel Gear , Travel Tips

Being such a vast continent, the climate in Europe varies drastically, depending on where you go.

In addition, traveling in the shoulder season of spring makes the weather in Europe even more unpredictable. 

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So, if you’re planning an epic Europe trip in spring, it’s only natural to feel a bit confused about what clothes to take with you.

Luckily, thanks to our experience traveling in Europe, we know the best way to dress in all seasons.

So before you start packing your backpacking essentials for Europe , read our guide on the best travel clothes for Europe in spring .

What To Pack For Europe In Spring

When deciding what to pack for Europe in spring, think about what countries you are visiting before planning your outfits.

It’s no secret that spring can be winter-like in some parts of the continent, like Sweden, Scotland, and Poland.

In contrast, in the Mediterranean areas of Spain and Greece, Spring has a warm, summer feel.

If you’re only visiting one country, the packing will be a much easier process than if you’re backpacking across the continent.

Even so, as spring in Europe is so changeable, it’s also best to pack for multiple seasons regardless.

Of course, if you’re traveling with a backpack or small suitcase, you can’t take your entire wardrobe.

So how do you ensure you’re covered for the varying climates while still traveling light? 

The best way we’ve found to do this is by taking multiple layers.

Having a mix of short sleeve t-shirts, long-sleeve tops, jumpers, and a good jacket or two will allow you to adjust to the unexpected weather changes.

So let’s break down exactly what layers you’ll need when packing so that you can know exactly what to wear in Europe during spring.

Wondering Where To Buy Your Clothes For Traveling Europe?

We love how convenient Amazon is. We understand that buying clothes online is not always easy.

Our packing list will still help you figure out what to pack for Europe.

T-shirts & Vest Tops

Short-sleeve tops are a base layer that you’ll be wearing every day during your trip. So pack plenty of t-shirts, vest tops, and tank tops.

You’ll find spring days in Europe often start chilly and then warm up considerably throughout the day.

So, if you’re out hiking or walking around, you might find you get warm enough to take off your outer and mid-layers.

Hoodies & Sweaters

Hoodies, sweaters, jumpers, and cardigans make warm mid-layers, offering you insulation against the cold winds.

Even if it seems like a warm day, we recommend taking a hoodie and sweater with you wherever you go.

As spring is such a temperamental season in Europe, you just never know when the temperature will drop.

During the day, you may be able to interchange jumpers and jackets as your outer layer. Still, in the evenings, you might find you need both layers.

No matter where you go in Europe in the spring, don’t forget to pack a jacket. Unless you’re heading to a nordic country like Denmark, Norway, or Sweden, you probably won’t need a super thick winter coat.

However, a thin, lightweight jacket with some insulation will undoubtedly come in useful.

A windproof and water-resistant jacket like this MAGCOMSEN Men’s Hooded Windbreaker Jacket is ideal, as it gives you total protection from the elements. It’s also lightweight and quick-drying.

Note that if you’re traveling around only one European country, the climate can differ significantly from the north to the south.

Spain and Italy are two examples, as the northern regions remain cold during the spring.

However, the southern areas are starting to feel summer-like. So, you may not need a jacket for your entire trip, but you will most likely need it for part of it. 

Rain Jacket

If your jacket or coat is not waterproof, you’ll need to bring a rain jacket too. Of course, certain countries in Europe have a higher chance of rainfall in spring than others.

However, as many rain jackets are thin, lightweight, and can be packed down to a small size, there’s no reason not to include one when packing your travel outfits for Europe.

For example, this 33,000ft Packable Shell Rain Jacket is 5000mm waterproof with fully sealed and welded seams to keep water out.

It’s so easy to fold down and pack in the included carrying pouch, which you can keep in your daypack or hang from the outside of it.

Long pants are the most common lower body apparel in Europe during the spring, so ensure you pack plenty of these.

Include a mix of jeans for city exploring, hiking or sports pants for outdoor activities, and a couple of smart/casual trousers. 

For women, leggings are also one of the best travel clothes for Europe in spring.

Or, if you’re traveling in colder countries, take a couple of thermal leggings like these Conceited Premium Women’s Fleece Lined Leggings . 

If you’re visiting a Mediterranean country like Greece , Malta, or Cyprus, expect warmer temperatures than elsewhere in Europe. In that case, pack a couple of pairs of shorts. 

Even if it doesn’t seem hot in the morning, the temperature can quickly rise around midday. So keep some shorts in your daypack that you can change into if needed. 

Scarf & Hat 

If you’re traveling in Northern or Eastern Europe, a scarf and hat are necessary for spring. This is because the winds here are still icy, so it’s essential to protect your neck and ears.

Even if you’re visiting the UK, Ireland, France, or Germany, we still recommend a scarf, but you can choose a thin fashion shawl instead of a thick winter one.

Even if the temperature is low, springtime in Europe brings increased sunshine and daylight hours. Therefore, even if it’s not beach weather, you can still expect bright, sunny days, so sunglasses are essential. 

Footwear is another important consideration when choosing travel clothes for Europe in spring. Again, the countries you’re visiting will determine the footwear you’ll need.

Still, in general, we suggest a good-quality pair of ankle boots that will offer you comfort and warmth when exploring cities and sights.

Choose a low heel for comfort and opt for waterproof material to keep you dry in the unexpected April showers.

We love these SOREL Chelsea Rain Boots for women, which have rubber sole traction and a supportive EVA footbed.

Don’t forget your favorite sneakers or running shoes for long walks and hikes.

And if you’re heading to the Mediterranean and planning a beach day or two, pack a pair of flip flops or sandals. 

Finally, an additional item that women may want to take to Europe in Spring is a couple of long dresses.

One or two chic dresses are enough to give you something nice to wear whenever you go out to a nice restaurant and bar. 

As the nights are still chilly in most parts of Europe, we suggest avoiding short, strappy summer dresses.

Instead, opt for a midi or maxi dress for more coverage. This Boho Floral A-Line Flared Midi Dress by Floerns is ideal.

Pair it with boots rather than sandals or heels, and if you’re traveling to a chilly part of Europe, you’ll need some warm tights too.

Europe Travel Outfit Ideas For Spring

Now you know the type of layers you’ll need on your upcoming trip, it’s time to plan some stylish outfits.

Here are our top Europe spring outfit ideas for men and women.

Below, you’ll find our outfit ideas for men during European spring.

City Explorer

When you’re walking around a new European city, you want to look stylish, feel comfortable, and blend in with the locals.

Create this look with these comfortable and durable Rockport Waterproof Storm Surge Toe Boots.

They feature an Adidas adiPRENE shock-absorbing heel cushioning so you can walk around all day without getting sore feet.

Pair them with these Match Straight Tapered Jogger Trousers and Sailwind Henley Long Sleeve T-Shirt .

Layer with this Esobo Cotton V Neck Sweater and this Sandbank Softshell Flight Bomber Jacket .

It not only looks fashionable but it’s windproof, too. However, it won’t keep you dry in the rain so don’t forget your rain jacket!

Outdoor Adventurer

Europe is an adventurer’s playground, from hiking to mountain biking to canyoning. Whatever activity you choose, stay dry and warm with this comfy yet functional outfit.

Start with top-quality waterproof boots like the NORTIV 8 Men’s Ankle High Hiking Boots . They feature shock-absorbent cushioned insoles, lightweight EVA midsoles, and high-quality rubber soles. 

Pair them with these TACVASEN Quick Dry Hiking Pants , made from a breathable, lightweight, and fast-drying fabric.

Up top, choose the Under Armour Tactical Tech T-Shirt as your base layer and the CRYSULLY Men’s Tactical Pullover as your mid-layer. 

Finally, stay dry with the Columbia Men’s Watertight Ii Jacket with waterproof and breathable technology and an adjustable storm hood with an abrasion-resistant chin guard.

It’s also super lightweight and can be packed down to the size of a pocket.

Sleek Traveler

A night out in an exciting new destination calls for a stylish and sleek look.

Many of our favorite evening outfits for Europe involve these Polar Fox Brooke Lace-up Chukka Boots , made from hand-crafted, durable vegan leather.

Pair them with these Plaid&Plain Men’s Slim-Fit Dress Pants and the Calvin Klein Liquid Touch Polo Shirt , made from a soft, durable, and lightweight cotton fabric.

Add a layer of warmth with this Goodthreads Merino Wool V-Neck Sweater and this URBANFIND Slim Fit Bomber Jacket . 

Finally, if you’re in a colder European country, add this stylish Marino Avenue Knit Striped Scarf in a color that compliments your outfit. 

Below, you’ll find our outfit ideas for women during European spring.

Whether you’re admiring the ancient monuments of Athens or shopping in Milan, you won’t want to stand out as another classic tourist.

So pair these pretty MaxMuxun Faux Suede Flat Ankle Boots with these comfy but elegant GRACE KARIN High Waist Pencil Pants . 

Next up, pair this SheIn Keyhole Back Blouse in a light color like beige with the MEROKEETY Waffle Knit Batwing Cardigan .

Then, stay warm and dry no matter the weather with the SaphiRose Long Hooded Rain Jacket .

This look gives the perfect balance between smart and casual, so you can go straight from sightseeing to bar hopping without having to change your outfit. 

Wear this cozy and comfortable outfit if you’re exploring the English countryside, hiking in the Alps , or going for a coastal walk in Portugal.

First, give your feet the ultimate protection with these Columbia Newton Ridge Plus Waterproof Amped Hiking Shoes . Then keep your legs warm with these OUGES Women’s High Waist Yoga Pants .

They are designed for sports and outdoor activities and are made from a super soft moisture-wicking material.

Up top, start with this C9 Champion Soft-Tech Tee , made with comfortable and breathable fabric. Then, layer it up with the TBMPOY UPF 50+ Hoodie .

The lightweight, moisture-wicking fabric will prevent you from overheating, and the sun protection qualities will prevent any sunburn. 

Finally, stay dry with the Diamond Candy Lightweight Hooded Hiking Coat . The soft and lightweight shell is windproof and waterproof, and the adjustable cuffs help you retain warmth if the temperature drops. 

Chic Traveler 

If you’re checking out the city’s most hip bar, fine dining restaurant, or iconic theatre, do it with style and elegance.

Pair this MEROKEETY Striped Knee Length Swing Midi Dress with these Tish Lucia ​​Pointed Toe Ankle Boots .

Then, stay warm with this Allegra K Faux Suede Biker Moto Jacket and this gorgeous MaaMgic Cashmere Feel Pashmina Shawl .

Final Thoughts On Travel Clothes For European Spring

We hope this guide has given you a better understanding of what to pack for Europe in spring.

As the climate varies throughout the continent, we strongly recommend researching the usual spring weather in each destination.

Moreover, always pack for unexpected weather when traveling during the shoulder season!

Need help with clothing? Read one of the following blog posts:

• What to wear camping
• What to wear kayaking in spring
• What to wear kayaking in summer
• Packing for Europe in winter
• Packing for Europe in fall
• Packing for Europe in summer

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Ultimate List of the Best Women's Travel Clothes for Europe

Planning your dream trip to Europe and wondering what is best to pack in your suitcase? Scroll down to the ultimate useful tips, outfit suggestions, and recommendations.

European women generally dress casually and practically, so if you do not want to look like a tacky tourist, you cannot go wrong with packing practical and beautiful items.

Dressing like local women will help you blend in and get a more authentic European travel experience.

Our article offers advice on what to pack for different weather and diverse countries you will visit in Europe.

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Tank tops are timeless pieces and are virtually pairable with any bottoms. Wear tank tops solo or under a cardigan or sweater when it gets chilly.

Tank tops are perfect as they do not take up much space in your luggage. Pack a few cute ones to mix and match with your pants, jeans, skirts, and shorts.

Check out our selection of the 20 best affordable and sustainable tank tops for a conscious choice. 

Sunhat and Loose Linen Shirt

Pack a sunhat and a loose linen shirt if you visit southern European countries or islands.

Soak up in the sun in Greece or Spain while protecting yourself against UV lights. A combination of a sunhat and a loose linen shirt is terrific for a beach day.

A loose linen shirt and sunhat paired with shorts or loose-fitting pants could also be perfect for a city trip. Summer can get super hot, and you'd better wear breathable and comfortable clothes.

Discover more fabulous outfits for summer in Europe. 

High-waisted Jeans

Jeans are perfect travel companions. They are also a popular item in the fashion wardrobes of European women.

Create limitless casual looks by combining your jeans with different types of tops.

Pair high-waisted jeans with tank tops, crop tops, Tees, and much more for an ultimate look for a city trip.

Bikini + Sunglasses

A bikini or swimsuit and sunglasses are a must if you visit southern European countries in the hot period. Balearic islands, Italian, or Greek islands all offer amazing swimming and diving opportunities. 

Sunglasses are generally recommendable no matter which country you visit and when. You will want to admire and enjoy the beauty of European cities and towns without squinting.

Here are the 15 best affordable and sustainable sunglasses to make your choice easy. 

Light Jacket

Packing a light jacket is a brilliant idea even if you visit Europe in summer. In some northern countries, it gets chilly during the evenings, so you do not want to get cold or feel uncomfortable.

Faux leather, denim, and fleece jackets are all terrific options. Mix and match the light jacket with your jeans, skirts, or pants, and add a pair of cute shoes and a chic bag for a cute city girl look.

Check out our selection of the 12 best affordable vegan leather jackets of 2023 for inspiration. 

Evening Shoes

Always have a pair of elegant evening shoes at hand for special events.

A lovely pair of black, elegant ballet flats will be great too, as you do not want to break your legs or the heels on the cobblestone streets.

Evening shoes are perfect to pair with your dresses or pants and top combos.

Shift Dress

Shift dresses are ideal, as they allow freedom of movement due to the cut style.

Pack a shift dress in neutral colors, as it provides an excellent option for mix matching your outfits in a fun way. Add a chic belt and wear pumps or platform shoes if you want to create a more elegant evening look.

For more inspiration, check out our article on the 20 best organic cotton dresses for summer 2023. 

Shorts or Skirts

Both shorts and skirts are perfect for a European trip. Denim skirts or shorts are ideal, as you will see many European young women wearing them as well. So, you will nicely blend in.

Packing a floral maxi skirt is a must if you love feminine, cute outfits. A floral maxi skirt teamed with a cute top makes for the perfect outfit for Insta-worthy photos.

Purse or Cute Backpack

Pack a beautiful purse if you do not want to look like a tourist with a bulky backpack.

If you do not need to carry a lot of stuff during day trips, consider an eco-friendly trendy purse  or crossbody bag.

A cute small backpack is another terrific option to keep your things safe and give a nice touch to your looks.

Summer Dress

A summer dress is a must when visiting during late spring up to mid-autumn.

Pack a lightweight summer dress for enjoyable city trips, museum visits, and ice cream dates.

A summer dress is an ideal outfit for dreamy photoshoots in front of the Eiffel Tower or the Colosseum.

Sandals and Sneakers

Pack a pair of sandals and sneakers for your trip to Europe.

A lovely pair of sandals is an excellent choice for casual footwear. They are ideal for the beaches in Southern Europe, going to a public bath or sauna, or just wandering in the seaside towns.

For northern countries, sneakers are a favorable option. So pack both to have options for unforgettable outfits.

Ankle Boots

Bring a pair of sturdy ankle boots or running shoes. Your feet will appreciate the added support after a long day of sightseeing.

These will also be useful when walking through many old parts of European towns, as cobblestone streets are dangerous in high heels unless you are really used to them.

Trench Coat

A trench coat is perfect for late autumn or spring. You will want to stay warm while wandering in the old cities of Europe.

Trench coats are elegant and beautiful and come in many colors.

Pick a color that suits you best and pairs well with other outfit items.

Scarves are popular fashion accessories in Europe.

Make your outfits more fun or elegant by adding a chic designy scarf. It will come in handy at some religious sites where you are required to cover your head and shoulders.

Pack a few cute scarves for mixing and matching. 

Cargo Pants and T-shirt

Cargo pants paired with a cute Tee  is another cool outfit for your European trip. It is a practical and casual look.

Mix and match your cargo pants and Tees for ultimate cute look.

Was this article helpful to you? Please tell us what you liked or didn't like in the comments below.

About the Author: Gohar Davtyan

Gohar is a linguist fluent in 5 languages. She has lived and worked in several countries in Asia and Europe. She is passionate about travelling, different cultures, and yoga. Having volunteered in many environmental projects, Gohar feels very strongly about the environment and advocates for sustainable and eco-friendly fashion.

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I Just Spent 2 Weeks in Europe—8 Items That Were Worth the Suitcase Space

If you've spent any time on social media this summer, you've probably noticed two things: Everyone is traveling, and the airports are a mess. From lost luggage to canceled flights to hours in security lines, summer travel is chaotic right now, to say the least. I was recently one of those people braving the chaos to visit Portugal, and thankfully, I had a smooth travel experience. While I can't help with canceled flights or security lines, I can offer  packing tips for anyone still planning to get away this summer. I highly recommend purchasing an AirTag to pop into your luggage if you plan on checking it—that way, you can track its location on the off chance it doesn't make it to your final destination with you.

If you're able to bring just a  carry-on , that's even better, and streamlining your packing list is the best way to do so. I spent two weeks in Europe and found myself wearing the same items over and over again, so those are the ones I would pack first if I was going back right now. Each piece was comfortable, versatile, and polished, which is why I kept wearing them despite having other options in my suitcase. From oversize button-downs to slide sandals to linen pants, these are the eight items well worth the suitcase space. Consider this my guide on what to pack for Europe in the summer if you're trying to optimize your suitcase space. 

LINEN PANTS

The unofficial pant style of summer, linen trousers are the perfect combination of comfort and polish. They can be dressed up or down and pair well with everything from simple tanks to swimsuits, making them the ideal travel pants. I wore mine with almost everything in my suitcase and even chose them for the plane ride back—they're that comfortable. 

CROPPED TANKS

Cropped tanks are always a good travel item, especially during the summer. Dress them up with tailored trousers or down with denim shorts, as they pair well with anything. Whatever color you choose, it will be one of the most-worn items in your suitcase. 

OVERSIZE BUTTON-DOWNS

Oversize button-downs are having a major moment in 2022, and I'm all for it. They're particularly good for travel thanks to their versatility. Throw it on over a swimsuit, a tank, and trousers, or even sub one for a jacket in the evening. To say I got my money's worth from mine this trip would be an understatement. 

EASY DRESSES

Sundresses are a summer staple, and I always opt for easy styles when traveling. I don't want anything that's too short or only pairs well with heels. Instead, I pack versatile dresses that I know I love and can be worn day or night. That one dress you never wear at home but think you'll wear on vacation? Skip it—trust me.

If you've been to Europe, I don't have to explain how much walking you do. I'm talking over 20k steps a day. The only sensible shoe choice for this much movement is comfortable sneakers, and they also happen to pair well with the summer dresses and shorts already in your suitcase. Wear yours on the plane so you won't even have to pack them. 

FUN JEWELRY

Nothing says summer like colorful beaded jewelry, and it's the perfect way to infuse some fun into your vacation wardrobe. A stack of beaded necklaces can be worn to the beach, to go sightseeing, for dinner—you name it. They also dress up even the most basic of pieces, so your tank and shorts suddenly become an outfit. 

WIDE-BRIM HATS

Protect your face and keep UV rays at bay with a chic wide-brim hat. This can be a tricky one to pack, but it's 100% worth the hassle. You'll be thankful once you're there. My tip is to stuff yours with a rolled-up T-shirt to keep the shape in your luggage. 

SLIDE SANDALS

Slide sandals are a no-brainer when traveling, especially in Europe where the general vibe is more relaxed. They're comfortable enough to walk around all day in but can also look polished when you're heading out in the evening. I wore the below Zara sandals on repeat during my trip and can't emphasize enough how comfortable they are.

Next up:  6 Shoe Trends That Work Best for Travel

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Global Munchkins

Travel + Global Inspired Lifestyle

April 7, 2023

Packing List for Europe – [10 Amazing Outfits] in just one Carry On!

Packing for Europe can be quite the process. A couple years ago I hopped on a jet plane headed to Prague to visit my baby sister. I was flying alone and on one of the economy airlines, which charges an arm and a leg for luggage.

Thus, I had to trim down my packing list to one single carry on.  The goal for our Packing List for Europe…10 outfits in just a single carry on .

Packing List for Europe

As a mom of six who has traveled to Europe a few times, I know how important it is to have a good packing list to make sure that you’re prepared for all of the adventures you’ll have on your trip. Here are some essentials that I recommend including in your Europe packing list.

Packing for 10 days in Europe in only a small carry on . Can you do it? I did and here is how…

Here is what you will need:

• 2 comfy, casual tops
• 1 dress-up-or-down tops
• 3 versatile dresses or jumpsuits
• 2 bottoms of your choice (pants, shorts, etc.)
• 1 “nicer” outfit
• 2 warm layers (preferably lightweight)
• 1 pair of sneakers, one pair of flats, one pair of sandals
• Simple accessories: a package hat, a couple necklaces, and a scarf (I always bring one on the plane in case it gets chilly)

The goal is to find neutral pieces that you can mix and match with almost everything in your suitcase. This allows you to bring less things overall, and it’s so much simpler to plan out your outfits. My personal style is more California Casual, so I already had many pieces in my closet that I could bring.

Don’t feel like you need to go out and buy a whole new wardrobe but investing in a few new pieces that will get plenty of wear long after your travels is a smart idea. Plus it’s always fun to have new things to wear while taking pictures on vacation. 

Shop these pieces here

Why I chose these items:

One of the most important things I suggest bringing is a comfortable pair of shoes. I love these Superga sneakers because they can be worn with everything from the most causal looks to a nicer outfit. 

Since there are a lot of cobblestone streets in Europe it is a good idea to pack some good walking shoes for your trip to Europe!

A comfortable pair of sandals is so important because you will be trekking a whole lot of miles each day exploring. I love that these sandals are stylish to wear out to a nice place, but my feet don’t hurt after walking in them all day.

More comfortable sandals solutions here :

I keep my accessories really simple if I’m packing light. A packable sunhat that makes it easy to spend less time on your hair and more time adventuring is a must, and I add in some simple necklaces like this one to complete my looks. 

Another important thing to bring is a mid-sized bag that is easy to carry, and durable. I love wearing a backpack like this one that feels comfortable and looks cute with all my outfits. 

You could also bring along a fanny pack – Not the ones your mom used to wear; the cute trendy ones . This will be a nice safe spot to hold your cash and passport.

Shop more of my favorite travel bags here :

Some shopping tips:

• Sign up for e-mail newsletters from your favorite online stores so you don’t miss their promotions. Also check our weekly sales page for all the most up to date sales from our favorite stores like Madewell and Loft for cute seasonal pieces, Splendid for great basics, and Nordstrom for basically all the rest of your travel needs. 
• Shop at sites that have easy returns so if you don’t love it, it’s not a hassle to send it back.
• Don’t be afraid to spend more because you will end up buying less. All these items I am suggesting make great investment pieces for your wardrobe that will get plenty of wear for many seasons.

What To Do Once You’ve Decided on Your Capsule Looks

Pretty awesome right. Like they say, “why re-invent the wheel.” Go a little pin crazy. After you have found your inspiration follow these easy steps:

• Scour your closet- you will be shocked by how much is in there I promise.
• Purchase needed items- head to Nordstrom’s Rack , H&M or Target to pick up any items you still need while on a budget.
• Have a Fashion Show- try on everything. Find as many combinations you can make out of the least amount of pieces.
• Lay everything out- then 24 hours later go through and take out anything you feel you don’t REALLY need. Be really strict with yourself here, less IS more!!!
• Take pictures of your outfits- Save them to an album on your phone so you spend less time getting ready and more time out having fun.

Don’t Forget These Must-Have Items:

• Portable Charger- Not just any portable charger but specifically this one- the MyCharge Portable Charger Power Bank . I have tested tons of portable chargers throughout my travels and this one is by far my favorite. Not only does it charge incredibly fast (up to 75% faster to be exact), but it also has two charging cables attached so you don’t need to attach any additional cords. And, the MyCharge charges directly in the wall making it so much more effective than any other portable charger I have used. Grab one on Amazon (it’s prime) here.

• Universal Travel Adapter- You will definitely need to bring a travel adaptor to charge all your accessories. This one also converts voltage so you can use your curling iron, electric toothbrush, etc.

• Travel Pillow- It’s a long flight from the States, you want to get some sleep on the plane. Pack a nice travel pillow. Some attach to the outside of your bag like the one I use here .

• Trip Wipes- Really convenient for wiping down any surfaces when your on the go like your tray table and seat on the plane.

• Wrinkle Release Spray or Travel Garment Steamer- In Europe, you are often on the go which means irons are not always handy. Grab a little wrinkle release spray to spritz on your clothes and you will be traveling through Europe wrinkle free. Or if you have pieces that you know get extra wrinkled in your suitcase, bring along this travel steamer.

• Melatonin- Melatonin is a must in my international packing. Getting used to a time change is so much easier when you have a little sleep aid. Melatonin is all natural, so you shouldn’t have any lingering sleep issues after taking it. We love this brand here .

Here is a quick video that talks about my Favorite Packing Hacks:

Using the above methods I successfully packed my entire wardrobe in my carry on suitcase.

I filled my backpack with my laptop , camera, chargers, universal adapter , passport, copies of all my travel reservations and my travel backpack . And, now I am good to go!!

If you enjoyed reading about our packing list for Europe, you might also enjoy:

• Packing Tips
• Best Food Tour in Rome
• Walks of Italy Tours
• 29 Swoonworthy Photos Of Prague

Frequently Asked Questions for Packing List For Europe

How do i not overpack for europe.

Overpacking for Europe can be tempting, especially if you’re not sure what to expect or if you want to be prepared for any possible scenario. However, lugging around too much stuff can be a real hassle, especially when you’re navigating crowded cities and public transportation.

One way to avoid overpacking is to use packing cubes. These handy little organizers can help you compartmentalize your clothes and keep them tidy, so you can easily see what you have and avoid overpacking.

Is it better to roll or fold clothes when packing?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to whether it’s better to roll or fold clothes when packing. However, a good rule of thumb is to roll softer, more casual items like short sleeved shirts, tank tops, and shorts, while folding more structured items like dress pants, blouses, and long sleeved shirts.

Ultimately, the best method is the one that works for you and your specific packing needs.

Should you have travel insurance when traveling to Europe?

Yes, it’s always a good idea to have travel insurance when traveling to Europe or any other destination.

Travel insurance can provide you with a range of benefits, including coverage for unexpected medical emergencies, trip cancellations or interruptions, lost or stolen luggage, and more.

Pin for Later: Packing List for Europe – [10 Amazing Outfits] in just one Carry On!

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Reader Interactions

April 10, 2016 at 9:50 pm

Ah, Europe. I’ll be seeing you real soon!!

April 13, 2016 at 4:18 pm

That’s impressive. I’ve just gone away twice in March for a weekend and barely squeaked by with a carry on.

April 18, 2017 at 6:20 pm

What are the black boots in the 10 days in Europe for spring? Searching for a great simple black boot to walk a lot in each day.

April 18, 2017 at 9:55 pm

Hello Melissa here is a link to the boots- http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/sole-society-natasha-boot-women/3771880 I hope you have an amazing trip 🙂

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The 7 Best Travel Dresses for Europe

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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There’s something about Europe that makes you want to step up your travel wardrobe game. A dress is the easiest way to do so—a good one can instantly create a one-piece outfit, it doesn’t take up much space in your suitcase, and it’s easy to transition from day to night.

Since no one wants to spend their European vacation stuck in their room steaming clothing, look for fabrics that resist wrinkles (and odors, so that you can get multiple wears out of one dress).

These are the best travel-friendly dresses to pack for Europe.

Carve Designs Lexi Dress

A mid-weight dress with long sleeves, like the Lexi Dress by Carve Designs , is perfect for sun protection or cooler nights. Made from 100 percent organic cotton, the Lexi Dress is breathable and comfortable no matter if you’re walking all day or sitting on a plane.

Details like a slight boat neck and small side slits add extra style to the dress, and the style comes in a variety of eye-catching colors that help set this dress apart. 

Toad & Co Cue Wrap Short Sleeve Dress

Wrap dresses are fashionable but a terrible idea on a windy day. Get all the style of a wrap dress (with the comfort of a low-maintenance t-shirt dress) with Toad & Co’s Cue Wrap Dress . 

The dress features a faux wrap design and a self-tie belt that gives you the option for a custom fit. Made from an organic cotton and Tencel Lyocell blend fabric, the Cue dress offers the perfect amount of stretch and structure. 

Europe Travel Scams Every Tourist Needs to Know

Coolibar Tierra Tank Dress

Summers in Europe can be extremely hot, so if you’re spending the day outside, make sure you’re protecting yourself from the sun. There’s no more stylish way to get your UPF protection than with Coolibar’s Tierra Tank Dress .

Made from a special soft and stretchy knit fabric, this dress blocks up to 98 percent of UVA/UVB rays. 

Columbia Plus Size Freezer III Dress

Air conditioning may be hard to find in Europe, but you can still stay cool in Columbia’s Freezer III Dress . The dress utilizes Columbia’s trademarked Omni-Freeze technology, which helps lower skin surface temperature when it gets wet, keeping you from overheating when you start sweating.

It’s available in a wide range of sizes, including plus sizes up to 3X, so all travelers can wear this dress.  

Carve Designs Lyla Dress

Pack a versatile dress that will work on the beach or a bike ride, like Carve Design’s Lyla Dress . Made from recycled plastic bottles, this dress is quick-drying and resists wrinkles. A built-in shelf bra means there’s one less thing for you to have to pack.

The lightweight material is super stretchy and quick-drying, so this dress will still look good even after a day of exploration.

Toad & Co Sunkissed Maxi Dress

Toad & Co’s Eco Kohilo fabric is simply magical. Made from mostly recycled polyester, it’s easy on the environment—and easy to pack since it folds down small and is wrinkle-proof (no matter how tightly you rolled it up). Find it in the Sunkissed Maxi Dress , which is ultra-lightweight, yet offers plenty of coverage (plus UPF 40 sun protection).

Two on-seam hand pockets make this dress perfect for travel, giving you a discreet place to stash things like your phone or keys. 

The Best Sun-Protective Clothing for Travel

Zella Departure Travel Dress

Keep things simple with a classic little black dress that will look at home wherever you go. Zella’s version, the Departure Travel Dress , is designed for travel thanks to a fabric that resists wrinkles and keeps you looking polished.

This dress can be paired with sneakers during the day for a more casual look or with sandals for a fancy night out.

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Petite Dressing

Travel in Style: 25 Chic Outfits to Wear in Europe

Posted: March 4, 2024 | Last updated: March 4, 2024

If you are traveling in Europe, one of the most commonly asked questions is “how should I dress”. The reason is simple, Europeans are known to be well-dressed, so you want to look put together too! Here we have 25 chic and comfortable outfits that you can wear when in Europe, and they will make you look like the locals instead of tourists.

White Sleeveless Top

Now’s your chance to immerse yourself in the relaxed sophistication of European vibes with a sleek white sleeveless top, especially when paired with neutral wide-leg pants! Just give it a twist with a waist cinch for that flattering silhouette, and rock it all with chic white sneakers. 

It’s the perfect blend of comfort and style, ideal for wandering cobblestone streets or chilling at a sidewalk cafe.

Graphic Tee

You can enhance your European street-style game with a dash of flair by wearing a trendy graphic tee. Simply pair it with sleek black jeans and versatile white sneakers.

As you navigate the bustling streets of Europe, this getup becomes a conversation starter, inviting others to join you on your adventure through the vibrant tapestry of culture and creativity.

As you stroll through those charming European streets, you want to turn every corner confidently and gracefully. To pull this off, wear a slit skirt and pair it with a crisp white blouse for that ageless elegance, spiced up with just the right amount of edge thanks to its slit detail.

Linen Jumpsuit

Experience the laid-back sophistication of European fashion with a linen jumpsuit , adorned specifically with vertical patterns. 

Crafted for comfort and style, its breathable fabric ensures you stay cool even on the warmest days, whereas the vertical patterns elongate your frame for that flawlessly flattering look.

The cropped silhouette of a crop top adds attraction, accentuating your waistline with subtle poise. Complete it with belted jeans to offer definition and structure to your attire and stylish boots to make a fashion-forward statement wherever your European adventures take you.

Button-down Shirt

A button-down shirt is a quintessential piece in European fashion, offering timeless urbaneness for travelers exploring the continent. Its clean lines and structured profile ooze refinement, aligning perfectly with the polished style that’s prevalently seen among Europeans.

Floral Blouse

Let the romance of European fashion sweep you away as you don a floral blouse, bringing a whimsical charm to your ensemble and a hint of wanderlust to your adventures! The delicate floral pattern of the blouse adds a soft, feminine touch, enhancing your overall appearance.

The jeggings’ flexible fabric guarantees comfort throughout the day, and when combined with a lace blouse, you’ll see how it introduces femininity to your outfit. This leads to an understated charm, making it ideal for exploring Europe’s cosmopolitan cities or picturesque countryside.

Leather Skirt

When pondering your attire for Europe, a leather skirt emerges as a timeless and adaptable option that effortlessly enhances your fashion sense. Its smooth, voguish look radiates European charm, seamlessly blending with the trendy locals. 

The structured form of the leather skirt presents a polished yet contemporary vibe, ideal for navigating the pathways of European urban hubs or indulging in chic cafe experiences along the Seine.

Floral Maxi Skirt

A floral maxi skirt possesses a flowy silhouette that echoes the romantic yet easygoing vibe synonymous with European fashion. The vibrant floral print instantly revamps your look, making you stand out in a sea of neutrals having you blend in with the fashion style of the locals.

Can you imagine yourself strolling through the busy streets of Paris or sipping espresso at a quaint Italian café, all while exuding an air of timeless luxury in a tailored blazer ? Well, this piece is a staple of European style, upgrading any outfit with its chi features and profile.

You may layer it over a crisp white top and pair it with cargo pants for a modern twist on vintage European refinement.

Floral Maxi Dress

If you want to discreetly display that European allure, wear a floral maxi dress – its flowing silhouette flatters all body shapes; the intricate floral patterns evoke romance. Layering a leather jacket over the dress adds a hint of edge, perfect for transitioning from day to night.

Wide-Leg Pants

Ease into the carefree charm of wide-leg pants , promising comfort for your European escapades while giving off a refined flair. High-waisted cuts elongate your frame and craft a flattering look, ensuring you strut with distinctive urbanity along the eye-pleasing avenues.

Ever wondered how to easily pull off that European style while exploring the continent? Look no further than mom jeans – their high-waisted design not only guarantees supreme comfort but also foregrounds the waist and lengthens the legs for a flattering appearance.

The natural properties of the linen set make it an excellent pick for European travels as it helps regulate body temperature and wicks away moisture. Its minimalist yet refined aesthetic enables easy mix-and-match styling, allowing you to create multiple outfits with just a few key pieces.

Knit Pullover

As Europe boasts a diverse climate ranging from chilly evenings to brisk mornings, a knit pullover ensures you stay snug and stylish throughout your adventures. Its plush texture and tactile appeal add depth to your ensemble, lending a touch of tactile luxury to your escapades.

Peasant Top

A peasant top blends finesse and easygoing vibes with bohemian charm through intricate embroidery and billowy sleeves. Reflecting Europe’s cultural tapestry, it’s your passport to local aesthetics and immersive experiences.

Billowy Dress

The billowy dress channels unfailing romance with its voluminous skirt and delicate draping, mirroring the appeal of European aesthetics. For your adventures, lean into soft, muted tones that harmonize with the scenic landscapes and architectural marvels of the continent.

Flare Jeans

One of the standout style benefits of flare jeans lies in their flattering profile, which elongates the legs and highlights your curves in all the best regions. The flared hem adds visual interest and balances proportions, offering style and comfort in equal measure as you traverse Europe.

Gingham Midi Dress

The gingham midi dress seamlessly combines vintage allure with contemporary chic, a top choice for travelers blending into the local fashion scene. 

Its silhouette embraces curves effortlessly, striking an elegant yet practical balance with its midi length, perfect for exploring European cities with grace.

Trench coat

Are you planning on strolling under the warm Mediterranean sun or navigating through drizzling rain in the streets of London? 

Indeed, a trench coat combines vogue and functionality as its water-resistant fabric and lightweight construction offer protection from rain showers. By opting for a trench coat, you represent the understated elegance favored by European locals!

Palazzo Pant

Palazzo pants : a must-pack for European voyagers craving both comfort and refinement. Their wide-leg grace brings airiness, perfect for meandering through the streets with poise.

Pair them with a matching off-the-shoulder top for a chic, well-coordinated look that whispers of European allure and modern edge.

Pleated Skirt

The graceful folds of pleated skirts bring suaveness to your demeanor, whereas their lightweight fabric ensures easy movement. With a structured configuration that flatters all body types, they underline your waist and visually lengthen your legs, perfecting your chic European style.

Wrap sets emerge as the savvy pick for travelers exploring Europe with an eye for style and adaptability. Their wrap design not only injects visual intrigue but also ascertains a personalized fit that emphasizes your figure.

This matching set melds together, projecting an air of understated elegance and making you appear well-put-together without looking overdone.

More styling tips from Petite Dressing

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26 Travel Outfit Essentials for Women

Add slip-on shoes, cozy pashminas, and compression leggings to your packing list.

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When it comes to travel, we know you need to find the perfect balance between comfort and style. After all, it’s great to look put together while hopping on a flight, but not at the cost of your comfort—especially on long-haul trips. Rest assured, we've curated a list of wardrobe essentials to achieve flawless travel and airport outfits, whether you are exploring a new destination for business or pleasure.

When it comes to the best travel outfits for women, accessories play a critical role in keeping you comfy and organized. All you have to do is remember a comfortable pair of shoes , compression socks to keep things moving, an eye mask that's an upgrade from the one the airline provides, and a chic shawl that doubles as a blanket. And of course, no travel outfit would be complete without a fashionable (and functional!) carry-on bag on your arm or atop your luggage . This bag should house all of your essentials and still level up your airport outfit. Keep reading for some of the best travel and airport outfit ideas your next trip.

Missky Long-Sleeved Oversize Pant Set

You might look like you're already on vacation if you show up to the airport in this neutral pants and button-down set. Available in two bright and two neutral colors, and sizes small to 2XL.

Spanx AirEssentials Wide-Leg Pants

Sometimes nothing less than sweats will do, and here is where Spanx really excels. Oprah picked these for her 2022 Favorite Things , saying, “You might know Spanx for its shapewear, but it also does fantastic cozy clothes. When I tell you this set feels light as air, I’m not kidding. It’s my new leisure suit. The perfectly loose-and-lightweight fabric is like buttah!”

J. Crew Cashmere-Wool Travel Wrap

Let's be honest, you can't always count on the airline's blankets to keep you warm, and some even leave annoying fluff behind. Stay warm and stylish with your own wearable blanket by way of this travel necessity from J. Crew that comes in eight different colors.

Dr. Scholl's Time Off Platform Sneakers

Celebrated for their consciously comfortable footwear, these sneakers from Dr. Scholl's are tricked out with tons of features for all-day comfort. Inside, anatomical cushioning and arch support keep you covered while a lightweight, anti-slip platform sole protects on the outside. This minimalist sneaker looks just as good with a matching suit as it does a low-key sweat set.

Girlfriend Collective Compressive Pocket Legging

Leggings are a perfect choice for traveling wear. And these have Oprah's seal of approval, as they were picked for Oprah's 2022 Favorite Things list. Eco-friendly and size-inclusive (the range goes through 6XL), these compression leggings are available in a plethora of hues. Plus, they feature double-side seaming and pockets.

Vuori Elevation Trouser in Midnight Heather

Vuori is celebrated for its super-cozy pieces. The best thing about these pants? They look put together while the stretch-knit fabric is as comfy as your favorite Vuori loungers. The high-rise waist and loose fit of the leg give you an effortlessly stylish silhouette.

Chico's Travelers No Tummy Pants

Chico's Travelers collection is made from wrinkle-resistant fabrics in comfortable silhouettes. Thanks to a pull-on waist and front darts, these No Tummy Pants are flattering and always look put together. If red isn't your vibe, they come in three other colors as well as the bestselling wide-leg Hutton pants in black.

Athleta Everlasting Button-Down Top

A classic button-down is a travel essential that elevates any in-transit look. Athleta's Everlasting button-down has all the details you need: a lightweight, odor-control stretch fabric and longer length for coverage. Luckily, you can cover all your neutral bases with navy, black, and white. Plus, it comes in an extended range of sizes from XXS to 3X.

Hoka Transport GTX Sneakers

Hoka's sneakers are cult Oprah Daily office favorites and podiatrist-approved . Not only do they look good with just about everything, but the Transport GTX also offer quick-toggle lacing for an easy on-off, as well as a full-length EVA midsole for the highest level of cushioning and arch support.

Spanx Perfect Pant High-Rise Flare

The perfect pant does not exist—wait, yes it does, and here it is. This high-rise flare option is designed with premium ponte fabric and a comfortable pull-on design for maximum comfort and easy styling on your flight. Plus, it comes in size XS to 3X, so there's something for everyone.

Spanx Women's AirEssentials 1/2 Zip Sweater

Sometimes nothing less than sweats will do, and here is where Spanx really excels. Oprah picked this top for her 2023 Favorite Things , saying, “Wow. Wow. Wow. May I tell you I got this set last year? I wore it in a photo shoot for O Quarterly and never looked back...” Why not pair it with the coordinating wide-leg pants for a full sweatsuit?

Everlane Organic Cotton Honeycomb Cardigan

This gorgeous honeycomb cotton cardigan is part of the latest iteration of Everlane Editions: The Art of Spring Layering. Crafted from responsibly sourced and lower-impact materials, this 100 percent organic cotton knit is ideal for layering before, during, and after your flight.

32º DEGREES Lightweight Recycled Poly-Fill Shirt Jacket

Sometimes a full on coat is not needed for travel, but you can never be quite sure of the weather. That's why a a little packable shacket—part shirt, part jacket—comes in. In black, olive green, or dark blue, the jacket will be your go-to for travel. Keep in mind, it runs slightly big in order to allow for comfortable layering of hoodies or sweaters underneath. There's a reason why Oprah tapped it on her Favorite Things list .

Dr. Motion Compression Socks with Enhanced Cushioning (3 Pack)

Compression socks are always a good ideal for traveling. We recommend these styles from Dr. Motion that offer graduated compression of 8 to 15 mmHg while providing arch support. Unlike other socks that can feel scratchy or clammy, these are soft, moisture-wicking, and subtly cushioned.

Original Puffer Hug Scarf

If you're traveling for business to a location that you're not thrilled about, chances are you are in need of a hug. Don't worry, this puffer hug scarf doubles as a warm wrap to keep you cozy and a hug to make you feel loved. It's fleece-lined with deep pockets so you can also store your ID and credit card without any issues.

Naadam Original 100 Percent Cashmere Sweater

Warm, soft, and chic—few things are as reliable as a plain cashmere sweater. At under $100, Naadam's perfect crewneck comes in core and limited-edition hues. Pro tip: Order a size or two larger than your usual for an ultra-cozy fit. And what's more, the sweater is machine-washable (yes, you read that right).

Frankie 4 Triple Layered-Support and Cushion Liberty Black Boots

If it's not on your radar yet, Frankie 4 is a podiatrist-designed and female-founded shoe line that offers insanely comfortable footwear. These are the perfect black boots to run around the airport and to wear on your trip as your professional or going out shoes.

Birdies Vesper Seven-Layer Cloud Comfort Loafers

Birdies' classic loafer will elevate any airport look. They're crafted with tumbled Nappa leather, a no-slip rubbber sole, and the brand's signature seven-layer footbed for ultra-cushy support. Plus, the Vesper comes in sizes 5 to 12, and a range of colors like silver leather and cappucino with raffia accents.

JW PEI Aylin Canvas Cellphone Crossbody Bag

Making sure you have all your essentials when going through airport security can be tough, but with this crossbody, you'll have your phone and cards right at hand.

Asutra Silk Eye Mask & Pillow

Oprah chose this eye mask for her 2023 Favorite Things list. "Sleeping with a mask is life-changing—I cannot tell you how much the quality of my sleep has improved," she said. "This weighted 100 percent silk one stays down and doesn’t let even a pinch of light in.” Co-owned by superstar Venus Williams, Asustra produces eye pillows that are filled with lavender and flax. Whether you want to meditate or snooze during your flight, this adjustable mask will definitely relax you.

Sara Klausing covers all things fashion and style for Oprah Daily . Follow her on Instagram .

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These Are the Only 3 Outfits You Need to Pack for Any Trip, According to a Carry-on-only Traveler

This foolproof packing list actually doubles the amount of outfits in your suitcase.

• Best Accessories for Travel Outfits

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Travel + Leisure / Daisy Rodriguez

Before I became a travel journalist, I was a buyer in the fashion industry for over 15 years, working with brands such as Brooks Brothers, Michael Kors, and the former Liz Claiborne, so you can say that I have a keen eye for style, quality fabrics, and a good fit. These days, I put my former skills to work in a different way. On average, I travel twice a month and it’s not unusual for me to be zipping through the airport on any given day, so I pack light and maximize the outfits that I’m taking with me. 

At first, it wasn’t easy to streamline my packing lists for each destination; I was always stressed that I had left an essential top, pair of bottoms, jacket — you name it — at home. But, with the help of my former fashion buyer brain, I developed the ultimate travel capsule wardrobe , complete with three foolproof outfits that help me create dozens of looks (without needing to check a bag , I might add). Here are my favorite mix-and-match separates that suit any type of trip itinerary — both work and play — along with some must-have accessories that'll widen your wardrobe horizons. 

Duer LuxTwill Trucker Jacket 

Duer luxtwill high-rise trousers, minnow navy and dusty red stripe sweater.

I’ve been a huge fan of the Canadian clothing company Duer for several years now, and its LuxTwill Trucker Jacket and matching High-Rise Trousers are one of my favorite outfits to bring on work trips. Both the jacket and pants are made of 98 percent cotton and 2 percent elastane, so the pieces have a structured look while allowing for some stretch for comfort.

While it’s a great set, I also love to wear the jacket as a separate, over dresses, leggings, or jeans. And, to save suitcase space, I'll sport it on the plane. I've found that it's a versatile essential that’s great for work and play destinations. The trousers pair well with knits as well as button-front tops. I especially love pairing it with a slouchy novelty sweater like my favorite one from Minnow ; it's an excellent transition piece for spring that works with denim, pants, skirts and shorts and is constructed of a dreamy cotton-cashmere blend, making it super soft and comfortable. 

The timeless nautical pullover is also cozy, but not bulky and the dolman sleeves are fashionable and functional, allowing you to move freely when traveling. I own two of these sweaters and find myself bringing them on work trips and vacations because they match with nearly everything that I own.

To copy the look for less, pair this cropped jacket (on sale for $24) with these $40 high-waisted trousers and this nautical-inspired crewneck sweater that's currently $31 — all from Amazon. 

PrettyGarden Two-Piece Sleeveless Vest and Wide-Leg Pants Set

I’m in love with Amazon's two-piece sets because not only are they available at amazing price points, but they're super sleek and can be styled in so many ways. Here, the vest is drapey and offers a sophisticated and elegant look, although it also works well with denim; when I'm home, I like pairing it with my Everlane Super-Soft Relaxed Jeans for a laidback SoCal vibe, but when I'm on the go, it goes perfectly with the Duer LuxTwill High-Rise Trousers featured above (and I can layer the brand's LuxTwill Trucker Jacket on top or pair the PrettyGarden trousers with my Minnow sweater ). 

The bottoms are like palazzo pants and flare slightly, with a loose fit throughout. I like that they aren’t too tight, making them perfect for work meetings, long travel days, and itinerary-heavy days. They also have functioning pockets that are great for holding your essentials while on the move. The set comes in eight colors and sizes range from S to 2XL. Both pieces are machine washable; I’ve put them to the test in the wash several times and they come out looking just as good as new. A word of advice: Make sure you hang them to dry or lay them flat so they retain good shape.

For a more tailored look, you can get the set with a tighter-fitting cropped vest for $52. But, if this look is too business casual for your destination, I also pulled some stunning two-piece sets; check out the now-viral Anrabess Short-Sleeve Mockneck Sweater Set on sale for $40, the tropical getaway-ready Anrabess Linen Tank Top Matching Set that's currently $30, or the PrettyGarden Rib Knit Matching Set , which trades trousers for an elegant maxi skirt.  

Vuori’s Short-Sleeve Lux Crew Jumpsuit

Vuori makes my favorite activewear, so it’s no surprise that this super-flattering jumpsuit is on my list of favorite travel outfits. The jumpsuit's performance knit is so comfortable, especially in the summer when it feels good to wear loose-fitting clothing, but is also perfect for travel days, road trips, as well as lounging poolside (save room in your carry-on by using it as a swim cover-up). 

To make this outfit extra cool, slip the brand’s Halo Performance Hoodie over it when heading to a Pilates class or an early morning stroll. You can also wear it with a cropped jacket (like the Duer trucker jacket that I mentioned earlier) for a night out on the town. When the dress code calls for something cozier, I'll layer my Minnow sweater on top so it feels like I'm wearing a sweatshirt and sweatpants — even though the combo looks effortlessly chic.  

If you’re not a fan of onesies, don’t fret. Vuori's Villa Wide-Leg Pants can be paired with its Energy Top to serve a similar look. And, if you're looking for more budget-friendly jumpsuits, over at Amazon, you can get the Anrabess Short-Sleeve Crewneck Jumpsuit for $40. 

Travel + Leisure / Jean Chen Smith

Best Accessories for Travel Outfits 

Now, it's time to put the finishing touches on these travel outfits. Similarly, my go-to accessories can be mixed and matched to be styled with different looks, ensuring that everything in your suitcase is functional and will get plenty of use on your trip. Below, you'll find my favorite travel shoes and travel purses to tie your outfits together. 

Kizik Venice Slip-On Sneakers

A while back, I kept seeing these amazing hands-free slip-on shoes that you can put on and take off without having to bend down or fuss with laces. The Venice slip-ons are by far my favorites. They’re easy to slide right into, super lightweight, and hassle-free to pack. I love wearing them on long flights because they don’t feel constricting (plus, they make going through TSA security a breeze and I can easily slide out of them once I'm in my seat). And, when I'm at my destination, their cushy insoles and grippy rubber soles keep my feet comfy and supported when I'm on the move. 

They go with everything and really elevate any outfit. I'll pair them with my Duer set for more casual affairs and use them to make my PrettyGarden vest-trouser duo more playful after work meetings. And, of course, they're the long-lost soulmate for my Vuori jumpsuit , especially on travel days. 

Sapahn Jori Crossbody Bag

I used to be partial to labels and monogrammed bags, but I’m currently loving the Jori Crossbody for day-to-night use. During a recent trip to Santa Barbara, I found myself using it instead of my trusty Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag — which says a lot . Although it looks small, it actually fits everything that I need for a busy day on the go; I can store a small notebook, wallet, makeup compact, and smartphone in there without effort. 

The best feature of this bag is that you can switch out the straps to give it an entirely different look, making it transitional from work to play. There are two pockets inside for organizing smaller items like lipsticks or receipts. It comes in four colors, although the khaki hue is my favorite because it’s great for spring and it goes with everything — whether I'm dressed up in my PrettyGarden vest and wide-leg trousers , dressed down in my Duer LuxTwill Trucker Jacket and matching High-Rise Trousers , or out grabbing coffee in my Vuori jumpsuit .  

Amazon is filled with leather crossbody purses that are equal parts versatile, functional, and stylish — starting with the Gladdon Crossbody Bag (that's on sale for $16), the $13 FashionPuzzle Small Dome Chain Strap Crossbody Bag , and the Afkomst Crossbody Bag , which has a similar gold buckle detail in the center. For extra flair, I also spotted this on-sale Fossil crossbody that has a color-blocking print and a roomy build. 

Milmo 1813 Tote Bag

Milmo's 1813 isn’t just another tote bag, it’s a lifesaver for travel. I often use it as a personal item (paired with my Vuori jumpsuit ) when flying because of its versatility and roominess. I also love that it has a removable and washable interior liner that easily comes out with snap buttons; I don’t have to over-worry about spills and messes (the company also offers a two-year warranty on any defects outside of normal wear and tear). 

Its durable rope handles, which attach along the lower half of the bag, can hold up to 300 pounds, which is why it excels as a travel bag. As a tote, it's elegant, structured design is boardroom-ready (with my PrettyGarden two-piece set) , but it can also be worn as the perfect off-duty bag thanks to its convertible crossbody straps (I can sport it around town in the Vuori jumpsuit or Duer duo when I want to be hands-free). The exterior zip pockets allow for quick and easy access to your essentials while in line at the airport or a local eatery. It comes in four colors, but my choice is green.

Over at Amazon, you can replicate the look by adding the KouLi Buir Quilted Tote Bag ($40) or Missnine Laptop Tote Bag ($30) to your cart. But, if you want vast color options, I recommend the Wrangler Vintage Convertible Tote , which is available in 33 hues and is currently on sale for $49. 

Everlane Day Glove Flats

While I’m a huge fan of my Mansur Gavriel flats , I usually opt for Everlane's Day Gloves when I'm traveling because they’re just so comfortable and sleek. Praised for their buttery soft leather, the shoes mold to your feet for easy movement and endless support. I can take on a full day of walking wearing them. The rubber soles create a solid foundation and provide grippy traction on uneven and slick surfaces.

Made in an Italian factory, they come in 13 colors and sizes from 5 to 11, with the option for narrow or comfort width. I own several colors and rotate them when traveling. Plus, they hardly take up any room in my suitcase, which is always a win if you're a carry-on-only traveler, and can help spruce up professional outfits like the PrettyGarden vest and wide-leg pants , or make laidback styles like the Duer trucker jacket , matching pants , and Minnow sweater dressier.  

Their comfort is hard to match, but Amazon shoppers assure that the Trary Mary Jane Flats are another supportive option (and they're only $35). You can also get the Square-Toe Ankle Strap Ballet Flats , which are teacher-approved , from DreamPairs for $33. Knit flat fans can score the popular Frank Mully Pointed-Toe Flats for $36 thanks to a limited-time deal.

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The Ultimate Guide to Packing for Europe in Spring

Europe Packing List , Packing , Travel Packing Lists

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Spring in Europe is a beautiful time of year to visit, whether you’re north in Ireland or south in Italy. We’re sharing our ultimate guide to packing for Europe in spring to help you nail your travel wardrobe.

Packing for Europe in Spring

Table of contents.

Europe can be an unpredictable place to travel to in terms of weather, and no matter what time of year you go, you could get sun or rain. It’s a huge continent with stunning and diverse countries, and vacations here can last from a weekend getaway to an entire year.

Always, always, always check the weather forecast for each destination on your itinerary before your trip. Once you’ve researched the weather, you can focus on creating a travel capsule wardrobe , which should easily fit in a carryon suitcase with the help of packing cubes to compress your clothing.

Spring in Europe runs from March through May and can be a beautiful time to visit, as the temperature is warming up and the tourists have yet to arrive. While the flowers will be starting to bloom, the weather will still be pretty cool and rainy in some parts of the continent.

Start by reading these general tips on packing for spring travel:

• How to Pack for Trips with Mixed Weather
• How to Layer a Summer Dress for Spring
• How to Pack for Europe in Spring
• Best Shoes for Traveling in Spring and Fall

No matter where you visit, you should always be prepared for changing conditions, using layers and accessories to ensure you stay comfortable if the weather changes.

Tip: If the weather forecast predicts colder weather, read our  packing guide for Europe in Winter !

Using tips from our readers, we’ve compiled the ultimate guide to packing for Europe in spring:

Eddie Bauer Girl on the Go Trench Coat Sizes: XS-XXL Regular | XS-XL Petite | S-XXL Tall | 1X-3X Plus

United Kingdom

The weather in the UK is always unpredictable, including spring time. One of the most important things to remember is that just because it’s “spring” doesn’t mean it will necessarily be warm. The weather can vary hugely hour by hour and day by day.

In general, the east is drier than the west, and it’s cooler up north than it is south. And then there’s the rain, which can be expected in spring, along with wind, especially in hilly or mountainous areas. However, there can still be sunnier days.

Because of the varied weather, layering is a must. Wear a merino base layer and add a sweater and a beanie hat that won’t blow off from the wind. Don’t forget gloves and a scarf ! For shoes, pack a few pairs. Flats are great for days when it’s warmer or for a dinner out. For walking and rainy days, wear flat ankle boots .

You’ll also need a raincoat  when packing for Europe in spring. If you’re in a busy city like London, forget the umbrella as it will be hard to carry around in crowds. Wear a hat or a jacket with a hood. Stick to a lightweight, windproof, waterproof jacket and wear a fleece zip-up underneath for colder days.

Tip : The Tube and trains can get very hot, so this is where layers come in handy! Make it easy to strip off layers as you go into warmer buildings and out into the cold. 

Want more tips? Find out  what to pack for London  year round!

Qunice Mongolian Cashmere Crewneck Sweater : Sizes XS-XL

France is beautiful in spring, but it can still be chilly in the early months. In some parts, you can expect frost until May, while in the south, it can get suddenly warm by May and summer can appear early. If you’re near the Alps or Alsace region, expect colder temperatures, while the weather will be more mild in Nice and French Riviera regions.

When packing for Europe in spring, choose “smart” or “dressed up” casual attire. For example, you could wear well-tailored jeans with a white shirt , trench coat , and comfortable ankle boots . Depending on how much time you plan to spend outdoors and how low the temperatures, you may need warmer outerwear, so you can plan to layer for the weather as needed.

A sweater dress would be comfortable for indoors or outdoors with thick tights , while a cinched shift dress with thin stockings can be worn both museum-hopping or dancing at night as things warm up. You can also layer thin and thick tights if the temperature drops or wear them under jeans or leggings .

For outerwear, opt for durable synthetics that provide a measure of warmth plus wind- protection– especially near the coast. A weatherproof shell or rain jacket will help keep you dry, but be prepared for slippery cobblestone as well.

Tip : Springtime in France is less crowded, but it can also be wetter from other seasons and places. A rain poncho or travel umbrella will keep you and your bag dry and will save you up to 42 Euros for an umbrella upon arrival. 

For more tips, read our guide on  what to pack for France !

Sorel Out ‘N About III Classic Waterproof Boot 

Austria in early spring can be decidedly chilly, with snow potentially still in the forecast. Later on, in the season is an ideal time to visit as you’ll likely encounter pleasantly warm, sunny weather, although be prepared for the occasional shower and gray, overcast day.

For a typical springtime visit to Austria, bring lots of layers, as you can never be fully sure how the weather will progress when you set out in the morning. And if you’re traveling early in the spring season, you’d be wise to bring a few extra layers and sturdy, waterproof footwear.

For cute outfits for your spring trip, pack jeans, skirts, a variety of long-sleeve and short-sleeve tops, and sweaters to layer. For outerwear, go for a light trench coat—it’s a timeless piece that’s comfortable, practical, and sophisticated, and looks good thrown over jeans or a dress.

In terms of footwear, pack sleek (preferably waterproof) Chelsea boots . They’re comfortable but always look on-trend and go well with both dresses and jeans. A chic ballet flat in a neutral shade like blush or black is another footwear option that’s perfect for spring for dressier evenings.

Tip : During colder weather, the restaurants stores and hotels may be very warm. If you tend to get hot easily, take at least one short-sleeve top to wear as a base layer so you can take off your layers as needed. 

Before your trip, find out what to wear in Austria !

Taos Star Fashion Canvas Sneaker | Taos Website

Spring in Italy is unpredictable. The temperatures can vary from chilly to warm and sometimes even hot. Plus, the temperature greatly varies where you are in Italy. The north will be cooler, while the south will be more Mediterranean and warmer.

Despite the unpredictable weather, Italian spring is beautiful and you can spot flowers and greenery everywhere. To prepare for warm or cold weather, pack for both. Look for bright and light colors during this finicky season; when it’s sunny, it’s very warm. Jeans are a must, along with skirts in light fabrics. Stick to dark denim–it’s always in style.

When packing for Europe in spring, don’t forget a sweater and light jacket for layering on cold days and evenings and a waterproof outerwear item, such as a light trench coat , for unexpected rainstorms.

Perhaps most important for Italy is comfortable shoes , as you’ll likely be walking for hours and on uneven cobblestone paths. Ankle boots and flats are a safe bet. Sneakers have also become very popular in Italy. You can’t go wrong with a pair of comfortable chic sneakers.

Tip : Pack a pair of dressy shoes as locals like to dine out with style and elegance. In some venues, hosts at the entrance might not let you in if you’re wearing flat shoes. You’ll also want to bring along a scarf for coverage at religious sites where you’ll need to dress conservatively. 

For more tips, please read our complete Italy packing list !

Repel Windproof Travel Umbrella

Like many northern European countries, Germany’s spring weather greatly varies depending on the month and year. While it’s typically cool and rainy, some years have been warmer while others have still experienced snow. There’s even a nursery rhyme in Germany, which basically translates into: April doesn’t know what it wants– sunshine and rain and sometimes snow in between.

Since the weather during spring can be unpredictable, you will need to be prepared to face all the elements. When packing for Europe in spring, start off with the basics. You can never go wrong with a pair of jeans.  Opt for darker washes as they are figure flattering and will disguise any dirt. An ideal outfit would consist of a pair of jeans or your favorite lightweight pants and sneakers, ankle boots, or long boots . If you want to wear a skirt or dress, wear tights underneath.

An umbrella and a raincoat is a must in spring, as you never know when it might rain! It’s best to pack a lightweight and small umbrella or a thin and lightweight raincoat , so it doesn’t take too much space up in your bag.

Don’t forget a hooded jacket or parka to keep you warm if it gets chilly. Be sure you have a waterproof outer layer and a layer underneath that you can take off on warmer days. Women in Germany love wearing black leather jackets and a cardigan underneath.

Tip : For accessories, bring a large and thin scarf for those chilly days. On warm days you can easily take it off and pack it in your purse. 

For more tips, read up on  what to wear in Germany !

Lands’ End Insulated 3 in 1 Primaloft Parka : Sizes XS-XXL Regular | XS-XL Petite | S-XXL Tall

After a cold winter season, the days start to get longer in spring but you can still expect cold weather in Sweden. March often still sees snow, and the northern part of the country can remain white and wintery through the whole season. Towards the end of the season, it’ll warm up, but don’t expect temperatures above the low 60s (Fahrenheit).

In the spring, your essentials should include a pair of comfortable loafers or slip-on shoes , dark jeans that work for day and night, and a crossbody bag. If the forecast shows snow, bring waterproof boots that will keep your feet warm. An easy overcoat and a nice scarf are perfect additions for cooler days and nights.

A dress can always look pretty and feminine, but don’t opt for light materials. Pack a dress in a thicker material such as denim or wool and add a pair of black stockings to your look to warm your legs.

If you’re in a stylish city like Stockholm, don’t forget to pack a stylish silk top, black pants , and ankle boots with a slight heel for evenings out when visiting the wide variety of bars and bistros all over Stockholm’s city center.

Tip : Bicycles are a popular form of transport within the cities, and a great way of getting around and sightseeing. However, make sure that you dress appropriately, such as shoes, pants, and a cross body bag or something that will not interfere with your bicycle riding abilities. 

Here are some packing tips and Swedish style ideas to help you decide what to wear in Stockholm any time of the year!

J.Jill Wearever Smooth-Fit Slim-Leg Pants : Sizes XS-4X | XS-XL Petite | S-XL Tall

Switzerland

Spring weather in Switzerland can be unpredictable and so it is important to layer. You can wake up in the mornings to nearly freezing weather and it can warm up 30 or 40 degrees by the afternoon and cool back down in the evenings.

When packing for Europe in spring and Switzerland’s on your agenda, it’s important to be prepared for anything. Your daily outfit for spring would be a light top teamed with a pair of jeans and a warm jacket.

Start with your base including a good pair of jeans or trousers in a darker shade. Generally speaking, dark blue denim is considered timeless European fashion . Pair this with a light blouse or sleeveless top in a bright color as it is spring and you are celebrating this. This outfit can be accompanied by a lightweight denim jacket or a cardigan to protect you from the chill of the mornings and evenings. 

Tip : Although most Swiss people are able to speak English it shows respect if you attempt to address them in their native tongue “Sprechen Sie Englisch?” (“Do you speak English?”) This will result in you receiving a much warmer reception. 

For more tips, read our guide on  what to pack for Switzerland !

Waterproof Allbirds Wool Runner Mizzles

For spring in Ireland, you can expect mild temperatures with occasional rain showers, wind, and spells of sunshine. The days grow longer during the spring months, and further into the country you will see green landscapes, yellow tulips, and countless spring lambs.

Almost anyone will tell you that rain is always a possibility in Ireland. When packing for Europe in spring, waterproof boots and a warm waterproof jacket are musts. Waterproof sneakers are another stellar choice

Since spring in Dublin is cool, you will need a good pair of jeans in a dark shade–black is always a favorite. Layering is also essential. Sweaters, jackets, and tees are perfect. Try to stick to neutrals or pastel colors. A splash of color can come from a simple crossbody bag and scarves. Cashmere or silk scarves are perfect for the spring weather and look elegant, instantly enhancing a look.

Remember that the major cities like Dublin and Galway are very trendy, combining formal and casual wear. The most important thing is to always look presentable and avoid anything too revealing, like crop tops or short shorts. You will be cold and look inappropriate.

Tip : When traveling to Europe in the spring, consider visiting Ireland for St. Patrick’s day when the cities are alive with festivals! Dublin and Galway, among other cities, also host a number of festivals during the spring that are worth visiting. 

Are you wondering what to wear in Ireland ? Use these packing list ideas for Dublin as a starting point for your trip!

Eddie Bauer Charly Jacket : Sizes XS-XXL | Petite XS-XL | Tall S-XXL | Plus 1X-3X

Spring is arguably the most beautiful time of year to visit Norway, but the spring weather can either arrive incredibly early (in February) or late (with snow still there in May). You’ll want to check the weather before your trip to know which kind of spring weather you can expect.

In general, spring in Norway is chilly. Along with snow, you may encounter lots of wind, so you’ll want to pack and wear plenty of layers.

When you’re planning what to pack for a trip to Norway, keep in mind that locals like to keep things simple in their wardrobe, right down to the colors. They tend to gravitate toward gray, beige, black, and blue.

A pair of black or navy trousers and dark jeans will work great as your base. Pair these with long-sleeve shirts and sweaters, along with a lightweight, waterproof jacket. Since it can be warm indoors, wear pieces that are easy to take on and off.

For footwear, boots are fabulous. Not only are they comfortable and waterproof but they are perfect for all elements and all occasions. Since it may be windy, skip the umbrella and wear a beanie, scarf , and hooded jacket on those rainy days.

Tip : The Danes are some of the friendliest and happy people you will encounter, and the vibrant Oslo metropolis has a reputation for entertainment and an energetic nightlife. Pack an item that is slightly dressier for a fun night out! 

Here are more tips on what to wear in Norway !

Wool& Rowena Swing Dress : Sizes XS-2X

Spring is a dynamic time in Russia. The temperatures can change rapidly or stay stagnant for weeks. The temperature difference between April and May could be drastic. Be prepared for gray skies and rain. However, the flowers and trees start to bloom in May and June, making it a delightful time to visit.

Since Russia in the spring can still be quite chilly, jeans and boots are a smart choice for casual wear. Sweaters will keep you toasty warm, though if you visit in the late spring you might want to wear layers for sunny days.

In the spring, skirts get shorter, but women still typically wear tights under them for warmth. It can also be wet, either from rain or a late snow. Make sure you pack an umbrella and a raincoat . You’ll want sturdy shoes as well–ones you don’t mind getting wet.

Tip : When in doubt, dress more conservatively. It’s a good idea not to show cleavage, unless you have a layer underneath, or wear see-through clothes or bright makeup. Choose understated jewelry instead of flashier pieces. 

If you’re wondering what to wear in Russia , take a look at what they recommend you bring for your vacation.

Blondo Dakota Waterproof

The Netherlands

Spring is the time the trees and tulips are blossoming and blooming, the weather is getting warmer, and the sun is shining, but sometimes there’s still rain. Layering is the best way to handle this weather; you can remove items when it’s warm and keep them on when it’s cold. Have an umbrella ready for those wet days!

When packing for Europe in spring, choose long pants, like jeans, with a warm jacket. It can be your favorite black leather jacket or a 3-in-1 outdoor jacket in your favorite color. These jackets will keep you warm and dry, plus you can remove the inner fleece jacket if it’s too warm or use the fleece jacket by itself and leave the outer layer at your hotel.

Underneath, you could wear a lightweight turtleneck sweater. Have a matching scarf to keep your neck warm. At the moment, Dutch women love to wear oversized scarves !

Watch this  video review  on the Blondo Villa Waterproof boot!

Good walking shoes are most certainly important for your travels to the Netherlands. If you wear ankle boots , be sure they’re comfortable. Or choose stylish sneakers . Even if you plan on using the tram system or riding bicycles throughout the city, you will at some stage find yourself walking across the remarkable cobblestone streets , just to explore or browse through the busy shopping streets. Sensibility should reign here with your choice of footwear; avoid heels and opt for shoes that offer grip and are slip-resistant.

Tip : If you go on a bike tour through the Netherlands, you need bike-friendly clothes. For your bag, wear a backpack so you can be hands-free. Choose one that’s water-resistant so your personal belongings stay dry. 

Visiting the Netherlands on your next trip? Read up on  what to wear in the Netherlands !

Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Messenger Bag 

Spring is one of the most beautiful times to visit Spain. The weather is not too cold, flowers bloom in abandon, and the streets come to life with music and delicious farm fresh foods. While March and April can still be chilly, it starts to warm up in May. Warmth comes with the sun, but as soon as it disappears you can feel the draft, so it’s best to layer your clothing.

Have fun with your travel outfits for Spain in the spring. Bright colors, pastels, and florals are appropriate for this season, as everyone mimics nature’s vivid colors. Long tunic tops can be paired with  leggings , replacing trousers and denim. Dining out is popular in this fair weather, but make sure you bring along a scarf or a jacket. March can still be quite chilly so a denim jacket or blanket scarf can be a lifesaver when the weather gets crisp.

Comfortable footwear is a must for those long days of walking, but you can also pack a low chunky heel that can be worn out at night or for less strenuous activities.

Tip : Petty theft in Spain is very prevalent. Always keep an eye on your things, and remember to pack them securely. Make your clothing theft-proof and choose items with strong zippers. Read these anti-theft tips for more information.

If you’re traveling to Spain, read our full  packing list here !

J Crew Classic Denim Jacket : Sizes XXS-3X

Greece is a beautiful Mediterranean destination, and springtime brings fairly mild weather. You may enjoy some warm days, but you can expect evenings to be chilly, especially when you’re on the coast.

When packing for Europe in spring, include jeans and smart capri trousers in darker shades that you can team with bright tank tops and blouses for the warmer days and long sleeve shirts and 3/4 tops for cooler days. Bring a light jacket like a blazer or denim jacket for the evenings to ward off the chill. 

Accessorize your outfit with sunglasses and a chic sun hat. Skirts and shorts are perfect to wear during the day with ankle boots . Bl a ck is a great color choice because you can wear it with anything, and it’s forgiving in regards to dirt.

If you’re visiting Athens, you’ll want to take your style up a notch. This city is known for its smart-casual style. This means that the men are dressed impeccably and the women are unashamed of their bodies, opting for figure-enhancing clothes. It’s acceptable to wear jeans around the city, providing you dress them up with a smart blazer or blouse and elegant accessories.

Tip : Since there are many historic and beautiful sites throughout Greece, like the Acropolis, make sure you have appropriate footwear . The easiest method for sightseeing and getting around is on foot. 

For more tips, read our full packing list on what to wear in Greece .

Compass Rose Packing Cubes

How to Organize Your Clothing

Packing cubes  can help organize all the clothes you want to bring, not just your cardigan! We designed our own brand of slim packing cubes, with a unique color and numbering system, so it’s easy to remember where you’ve packed everything. The  video  below shows you how!

Learn our hacks with packing cubes in the   video !

We also put together a  five-part YouTube series  showing the different methods to use packing cubes for travel. If you use  this  specific packing strategy, packing cubes can also compress your belongings. This is the secret to traveling carry-on only!

Printable Travel Checklist

What are your tips on packing for Europe in spring? Share in the comment section below!

For more Europe packing tips, please read:

• 10-Step Packing Guide for Europe
• What to Wear in Europe: Packing List for Every Destination
• The Only Packing List for Europe You’ll Ever Need!
• 2 Weeks in Europe in Winter – Carry On Only

Suggested travel resources:

• How to Choose the Best Shoes for Europe
• The Best Carry-on Suitcases for Europe

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I hope you liked this ultimate guide to packing for Europe in spring. Please share it with your friends on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest. Thanks for reading!

Wow! Thanks for all the information. Never have heard about dressier shoes for Italy! Had planned on only bringing flats, but will now include one dressier pair for dinners out!

Can’t wait to get to Europe next spring!

So helpful ! Thanks

This is so helpful for my trip to Switzerland and river cruise next May. I’m looking for the perfect waterproof rain coat that’s lightweight. You have given me great ideas!

Thank you and happy 11th anniversary!

The TFG packing suggestions and lists are beyond helpful! I have discovered several travel go-tos through these blog posts.

These lists are perfect and so very helpful! Thank you so much as these are life savers!

Thank you so much for all the information you compile here! My husband and I are about a year away from retirement and when we do, we want to travel. To that end, I love all the ideas and recommendations you’ve gathered and organized so logically that it’s a delight to browse. Little by little I am making my purchases (using TFG website links) in preparation for our first trip. I feel confident we will have everything we need!

Spring in Portugal is like Spring in Spain?

Hi Debora, for more tips to help you pack for Portugal check out this guide: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/what-to-wear-in-lisbon/

I would also highly recommend that you join our TFG facebook group and post any questions you have there: https://www.facebook.com/groups/travelfashiongirls/ Its a fabulous community of helpful female travelers that love to share their travel advice and recommendations.

Have an incredible time on your travels!

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What Summer Travel to Europe Will Look Like This Year

By Arati Menon

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.

With additional reporting by Sarah Allard

When travel journalist Jenn Rice decided to spend July and August in Italy and Croatia last year, she wasn’t expecting to be spending most of her time indoors. “It was very very hot, so I booked museum tickets during peak days or just lounged around in my room with a spritz and a book until the sun set.” In Dubrovnik she tried escaping to the sea for a cool dip, but everyone else had the same idea—resulting in sweaty, overcrowded beaches. “In Rome , gelato melted faster than the speed of light,” she says.

Come summer, major attractions like the Spanish Steps in Rome are thronged by international tourists and vacationing Europeans.

Rome and Dubrovnik weren’t the only European destinations overcome with heat. To travel in Europe in the summer of 2023 was to experience first-hand a single season of contrasting extremes. Temperatures swung from hot and dry to cold and wet, and heatwaves broke out across several of the most heavily touristed destinations, with temperatures reaching upwards of 100°F. In Northern Greece, wildfires broke out —the worst experienced there in 20 years —destroying homes, forests, and vineyards.

Yet in the midst of it all, the continent also saw record-breaking tourist numbers —the highest since pre-pandemic levels—even as hotel prices swelled and airfares hit peaks. From scenic escapes like Bellagio in Como and Taormina in Sicily (where the White Lotus effect was on full display) to bucket-list cities like Paris and Madrid , much of touristed Europe was completely overwhelmed.

“We had people calling us from Athens and Rome asking us to get them out [to somewhere cooler in Europe], because it was too hot and too crowded,” recalls Jan Sortland , founder of Scandinavia specialists Norwegian Adventures.

International tourists weren’t the only ones thronging these spots. According to the European Travel Commission , most Europeans took their vacations before the peak month of August, with Italy and France being their top destinations. This resulted in packed crowds at all the major attractions. For John Canning, an LA-based executive who traveled to Paris in July, the crowds were eye-opening. “We didn’t anticipate that everything we would want to see was sold out. We only got Musée d’Orsay tickets through our concierge at a substantial premium and could not get into the Louvre full stop,” he says.

Rice says the summer taught her to plan her travel differently this year—and beyond: “I’m going to try and do coastal Italy early in May, and if I decide to travel in Europe this summer it will be either Asturias in Northern Spain or the Julian Alps in Slovenia to keep cool."

She’s not alone—according to the travel specialists we spoke with, there’s an increased interest in lesser-known destinations offering a more laid back (and cooler) holiday. “Our guests are asking after places where they can be outdoors, yet have access to wine & foodie experiences and culture. Slovenia is a great example of where you can have all that without being overwhelmed with the heat; the Dolomites in Italy is another,” says Rachael Mendizabal, Europe travel specialist at Scott Dunn . Richard Hyde, COO at Small Luxury Hotels of the World , is seeing similar trends across their European portfolio: “Guests seem to be gravitating towards alternative destinations—Milos instead of Mykonos and Slovenia instead of Spain.”

Norway is a popular destination this summer, offering cooler weather and a myriad ways to be active outside, exploring the islands and fjords.

A big part of that shift will play into Sortland’s area of expertise: Northern Europe. With the Med getting too hot to handle, experts predict that tourism will shift northwards. “We’re seeing a lot of interest in Copenhagen and Stockholm for the cultural experience, and then onward to Norway for the nature. Currently, the fjords are still a favorite but Norway is a large country and there’s so much more to see—the Helgeland coast for example with its beautiful coastline and mountainous islands,” he says. The draw is a more moderate temperature and unique outdoor experiences. “ Iceland is a big favorite right now with the Northern lights being the most active this year from September through March,” says Mendizabal.

Charlie Hobbs

Maya Silver

CNT Editors

In turn, for many, the more standard city breaks will fall later in the year. “Athens and Rome will always be desirable destinations, but we’ve seen an uptick in many people preferring to go there in May and October to swerve crowds,” says Carolyn Addison, head of product at Black Tomato , noting the weather in fall has been stable lately and enticing to travelers not tied to school holidays.

With this increased flexibility, shoulder season will become tricker to define, according to Mendizabal. Thanks to hotels extending their season as demand shifts to almost year-round and the high-season pricing window getting longer, the days of “scooping a deal in September are likely over.” At Jumeirah Palace in Capri , the season now runs from March to the end of December. “Thanks to the good weather, guests are staying longer than in the past,” says Ermanno Zanini, regional vice president at Jumeirah Group, Southern Europe and United Kingdom.

Castello di Vicarello in Tuscany 's Maremma countryside has traditionally stayed open in March and November. “We're pushing the low season as much as possible because we truly believe it is a wonderful time to discover Tuscany. There is so much for guests to enjoy from hiking to mountain biking, truffle hunting, and wine tastings,” says owner Neri Baccheschi Berti.

Crucially, traveling in the shoulder and off seasons isn't just about avoiding the crowds; it’s knowing that seasonal destinations are multi-dimensional, with year-round appeal. “One of my favorite things to do in cooler weather is to hike to the peak of Mount Solaro, with its beautiful views of the town of Capri and the bay of Marina Piccola with the Faraglioni, as well as Anacapri. You also see plenty of wintering birds on the island,” says Zanini.

Zanini adds that they are in talks with the island's municipality to consider what it would take to stay open in February and March, traditionally strictly closed off. “It's not as straightforward as you think. There’s a lot of infrastructure that needs to be geared towards the low season: restaurants need to stay open, as do shops, and guides need to be available; it can’t just be the hotel,” he adds.

However, with staying open longer, there’s a real opportunity to engage local communities year-round, not to mention stabilize the hiring pool—and improve work culture. “We’ve already seen the positive impact of a longer season for our partners on the ground and locals in the hospitality and tourism sector,” says Addison, who adds that shifts in travel seasons are far from a fleeting trend. “This pattern for more year-round travel will continue to pick up pace in 2025—and beyond," she says.

Travel specialists are quick to point out that even with some of this rebalancing, summer this year and next will continue to see high demand for travel to—and within—Europe. According to Hayley Berg, chief economist at Hopper, while airfare remains higher than at this time in 2019, 40% of all searches for international trips this summer are to Europe, in line with last year and slightly higher than in 2019.

“Sure, we think that traveler numbers on the Côte d'Azur will smooth out through the year, but summer will certainly remain the festive season—only it will be longer,” says Lucie Weill, owner of wellness retreat Lily of the Valley near St. Tropez , which sees its faire share of packed streets and crowded beaches come summer. Weill adds that the hotel has seen success in extending its season.

For travel specialist Cari Gray of Gray & Co . late requests and a lack of flexibility could mean getting turned away because of a lack of availability. “Whether it’s a visit to the Vatican or dogsledding in Alaska , access is going to be very difficult. And there are only that many high-end lodges in Lapland ,” she says. Addison offers the example of Lake Como , where the best properties can often get booked up a year or two in advance during the busiest summer months. “Knowing that the top hotels and guides are getting booked up and that weather disruptions are increasingly unpredictable, clients who want to commit to the most popular summer hotspots in Europe, like the Greek islands and Sardinia are securing their bookings a year out.”

The Balearic island of Menorca is a charming escape with its rocky coves, white-sand beaches, and green rolling hills.

Ultimately, it’s not about giving up on all the places you love: just about pivoting, even if within the same country. “Why not Menorca instead of Mallorca, with its explosion of fantastic hotels and its great beach front, or Epirus in Northern Greece on the Albanian border with its Stone villages, old-growth forests, and truffle hunts instead of the islands," says Gray.

"In Italy we’re always pushing to discover new areas, even in regions that we’ve been exploring for decades like Tuscany and Umbria because new hotels are opening up regularly,” says Courtney Mundy , a travel specialist at experiential travel experts Butterfield & Robinson.

And, a word of caution for the rising favorites: “Smaller destinations in Iceland & Norway will really need to consider how to manage the higher number of visitors than ever before,” says Addison. “Parts of Iceland are overtouristed,” agrees Sortland, “so, it’s not unreasonable to think that smaller communities in Norway could eventually be at risk, too.” Whether it's through new tourist tax regimens or limits on cruise ship day-trippers to reduce crowding, a shifting tide will need more alert local governments—and as we’re swapping beaches for the mountains or Rome for Stockholm, more responsible travel habits that leave fewer traces behind.

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5 adventures in europe without the crowds.

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Lithuania & Latvia: Vilnius to Riga with Country Walkers

If last summer is any indication—and bookings for 2024 suggest that it is—parts of Europe will be as inundated with crowds as they were in 2023. The best way to avoid the hordes is to go somewhere off the beaten path, seeking out corners of Europe free of mass tourism. Here are five European trips for those seeking a respite from the madding crowd.

Lithuania & Latvia: Vilnius to Riga

Country Walkers pairs two of the Baltics’ most desirable destinations on this eight-day trip, blending rural traditions and history. Rated Easy/Moderate includes visiting castles and historic palaces and exploring some of the scenic trails into the national parks of Trakai, Curonian Spit, Žemaitija, Gauja, and Kemeri. A visit to an amber museum and a tour of one of Europe’s largest markets, guided by a Latvian chef. There is availability in June, July and August and the cost is $4,545 (prices listed are per person, based on double occupancy, land-only).

Albania with Hinoki Travels.

Hinoki Travels chose Albania for its farm-to-table splendor, lesser-explored mountain trails, and warm-natured hospitality. It has put together a small group trip to Southern Albania with a theme of Provenance. Celebrating the region’s varied cultures, food & agriculture, and vast landscapes, this nine-day trip focuses on being hosted by local farmers, food producers, shepherds, local guides & small business owners. Accommodation is in guest houses in villages, and a highlight is sampling local food & wine. The adventures include hikes of five to six hours a day on rough, uneven terrain with varying elevations. There is also a rafting trip on the wild Vjosa River. The trip supports the efforts of EcoAlbania and Albanian citizens dedicated to protecting this river, one of Europe’s last wild-flowing rivers. There is one departure, September 14-22, 2024, and the cost is $3,250.

Exploring Zagoria with Wilderness Travel.

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Hidden Villages of Northern Greece

The crowds may flock to the Greek Islands, but you’ll encounter far fewer tourists if you head north. Traditional Greece can still be seen in Zagoria, where stone villages sit above the Vikos Gorge. On this 12-day Wilderness Travel trip, there are hikes along shepherds' paths and across arched stone bridges that span the gorge. The itinerary includes the monasteries of Meteora, which date as far back as the 13th century. The trip concludes with a hike up Mt. Olympus, the home of the gods for the ancient Greeks. Rated Level 4+, Moderate to Strenuous, this trip features daily hikes, with accommodation in hotels and simple pensions. Hikes are mainly on old mule trails and vary from 3-5 hours daily at 3,000 to 9,403 feet. There is an October 2024 departure, and the price is $4,595.

Hiker in Tatra Mountains, Poland.

Poland & Slovakia Walking & Hiking Tour

Backroads has organized this six-day national parks adventure from Kraków to the Tatra Mountains, the dramatic natural border between Slovakia and Poland. Rated levels 1-4 (out of 5), it’s a hike through mountain passes and lakes in a region dominated by the 25 peaks of the Tatras that reach more than 8,000 feet. Traverse from Poland to Slovakia on foot while exploring the Pieninys range dramatic scenery, explore the region known as Lesser Poland, and hike among the mountain lakes, waterfalls, and fields of sheep in Slovakia's High Tatras. The journey concludes in Kraków, a World Heritage site city. There are departures in August and September, and the price is $4,499.

Bran Castle, associated with the Dracula legend and Bram Stoker.

Romania: Transylvania & Beyond

This trip from Wild Frontiers begins in Bucharest, Romania’s capital, and goes into the heart of the great ranges of the Carpathian Mountains. Cultural crossroads of Central, Eastern, and South-eastern Europe for centuries, Romania has an abundance of well-preserved medieval towns, castles, and churches. The trip crosses the Transalpina, visits the World Heritage setting of Horezu Monastery, and goes through the old Saxon heartlands of Transylvania. It includes visiting the well-preserved town of Sibiu and the rural villages of Maramureş before crossing the Carpathians again to see the Painted Monasteries of Bucovina. In Moldavia, guests hear the legends and vampire myths of Sighişoara and Bran, the latter of which is associated with Bram Stoker and the Dracula legend. There is also time to explore the UNESCO sight of Viscri and the medieval heart of Brasov. This 15-day trip has a departure in September and is rated Low/Moderate for fitness, with a cost of $4,138.

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Already planning to see the next solar eclipse in 2026? What travelers need to know.

Umbraphiles feeling the post-eclipse blues should start checking the expiration date on their passports.

The next total solar eclipse is set to happen on Aug. 12, 2026, over Greenland, Iceland, Spain, Russia and a small part of Portugal, according to NASA . 

In North America, only a partial eclipse will be visible, so if April’s event made you an eclipse chaser and you want to see totality, you’ll need to head overseas.

Here’s what you’ll need to know before packing your bags:

Do you need a passport or visa for the best destination?

The path of totality for the 2026 eclipse mostly goes through places Americans can travel visa-free with their passport, so long as they’re planning to stay for less than 90 days.

Spain, Portugal, Iceland and Greenland all allow visa-free tourist travel for U.S. passport holders.

Spain, Portugal and Iceland are also members of the Schengen Area, which allows for visa-free travel in much of Europe, meaning if you decide to make a multi-country trip out of your eclipse adventure, you won’t need to clear customs if you’re coming from much of the rest of Europe, either.

One major change for travelers to Europe from the U.S., however, is that electronic preauthorization will become a requirement beginning in mid-2025. The European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) requirement will apply to all four open countries in the path of totality. 

Depending on the state of the Ukraine war, travel to Russia may or may not be an option for most Americans by 2026, so it’s unclear what the paperwork requirements will be by then.

Is it better to see it from the beach?

Beaches can be a great place to see the eclipse because there are few natural obstacles blocking observers’ views of the sky. The 2026 path of totality passes over beaches on Spain’s northern and southeastern coasts, as well as over islands in the Mediterranean Sea including Mallorca, Menorca and Ibiza. The eclipse will also pass over coastal areas in Greenland and Iceland, according to the National Solar Observatory . 

Cruising Altitude: What it was like to see the eclipse from a plane

Will there be eclipse cruises or flights?

Almost certainly, although most operators have not announced specific plans yet. 

Cruise lines will also offer more viewing opportunities. Princess Cruises “has created a bespoke itinerary aboard Sky Princess to position the ship near Spain on that date,” according to a spokesperson for the line. The cruise will open for bookings on Princess’s website on May 23.

Cunard Line has sailings on its Queen Mary 2 , Queen Victoria and Queen Anne vessels that will put passengers in prime spots to watch .

'The ship can move': Why you should watch next solar eclipses from a cruise ship

Holland America Line is also planning multiple sailings around the event, though details are still to be announced. “Guests have reacted positively to our 2024 eclipse cruises and with the next full eclipse in 2026 we plan to have three sailings in Europe that will align with the path of the eclipse,” Paul Grigsby, the line's vice president of Deployment & Itinerary Planning, previously told USA TODAY in an email.