essential items for european travel

15 essential packing items for a Europe trip

Recently updated on April 23rd, 2024 at 02:45 pm

So you’ve booked your dream tour and organised your flights… Now you need to pack! Europe is a massive continent with all kinds of different climates, cultures and landscapes. So where do you start? From what to wear in Europe to gadgets and medical essentials, here is our guide to everything you need to pack when planning a trip to Europe .

1. Versatile clothing

Europe has a reputation for being fashionable, from the minimalist clothing of Scandinavia to the elegant style of the Mediterranean. While you don’t need to walk around in haute couture, you also shouldn’t wear sloppy clothing or gym wear everyday. If you want to blend in and be comfortable, go for casual yet refined options. So what exactly do you wear in Europe? 

In general, go for versatile layers that can take you from day to night. For example, you can wear dark wash jeans, a light t-shirt and sneakers during the day, then dress it up with a nice jacket, accessories and sandals by night. Or, go for trousers, dresses or skirts that can easily be dressed up or down. Of course, what you wear in Europe will change depending on the season (it can go from blazing hot summers to freezing snowy winters), but in any season, remember to pack light and choose layers you can mix and match. 

We think you’ll also like: Top 10 Hidden Gems in Europe

2. Comfortable shoes

Although you’ll want to blend in with the stylish locals, the top priority is comfort when you’re planning a trip to Europe. You’ll be walking a lot, often on bumpy cobbled streets or hillsides, so you’ll need a comfortable pair of shoes to carry you through your trip.

Depending on the weather, that may be sneakers or sturdy sandals, or you may need hiking boots if you plan to hit the Alps. It’s also good to bring sandals or flip-flops for lounging by the pool or the beach. Whatever shoes you bring, make sure you break them in before you leave to avoid any nasty blisters.

Discover Europe’s landscapes on Grand European

3. Accessories

When you’ve got minimal clothing options, accessories are a great way to jazz up an outfit. You can pack light, colourful scarves, hair ties, hats and sunglasses, or throw on some jewellery (don’t bring any expensive stuff) like earrings, necklaces, bracelets or even use belts to stand out and complete your look.

We think you’ll also like: Where to travel in Europe in your 50s, 60s and 70s

4. Sun protection

Whether you’re travelling in summer, winter or somewhere in between, you always need to bring sun protection for your trip to Europe. Bring a hat, sunglasses and plenty of high SPF sunscreen.

Discover Europe in 14 days on European Whirl

5. Rain protection

You also need to consider the rain when planning a trip to Europe. Come prepared in any season with a raincoat, small travel umbrella or rain poncho.

6. Day bags

When you’re planning your trip to Europe, you’ll probably want to dedicate most days to sightseeing and different activities. Since you’ll spend so much time out and about, you’ll need a secure bag to hold all your daily essentials like your water bottle, sunscreen and camera. Whether you bring a backpack or cross-body bag, make sure it’s lightweight, waterproof, theft-proof and has plenty of pockets. For the evenings, you might like to bring a smaller bag or purse.

We think you’ll also like: 21 random fun facts about Europe you never knew

7. Toiletries

Your toiletries are up to you, but we always recommend pouring your products like shampoo and moisturiser into smaller, reusable travel bottles, to save space and produce less waste. If you don’t want to bring a bunch of liquids (that always seem to explode in your bag), you can try solid toiletries, like shampoo, soap, moisturiser and deodorant bars and toothpaste tabs. It’s also handy to bring a hanging toiletry bag to make it easier to reach in the bathroom.

Go back in time on our Traditional Europe tour

8. Medical kit

While you can usually find everything you need once you arrive, it’s always useful to bring a small medical kit when planning a trip to Europe. You’ll firstly need to pack any prescription medication you need and bring enough for your whole trip.

Other handy items include hand sanitiser, painkillers, electrolytes, antiseptic ointment and bandaids, eye drops, insect repellent and travel sickness tablets. If you’re a light sleeper, bring earplugs and an eye mask. Be sure to consult your doctor for specific travel health advice for your trip.

9. Reusable water bottle

You can help reduce plastic waste and save money by bringing your own reusable water bottle. You can refill it in destinations where it’s safe to drink the tap water, or use the filtered water at your hotel, or drinking fountains and refill stations found across Europe.

Curious as to whether it’s safe to drink the tap water in Europe?

10. Smartphone or camera

This is one of the most essential items on anyone’s list when planning a trip to Europe. From the icons like the Eiffel Tower and the Colosseum to the magical landscapes like the Swiss Alps and Amalfi Coast, you’ll want to take hundreds of stunning photos on your Europe adventure. Whether you use your smartphone camera or bring a separate SLR camera, make sure you bring extra memory cards, chargers and waterproof cases.

We think you’ll also like: Stays with Stories: 5 Unique Accommodations in Europe

11. Travel adaptor and power strip

Speaking of gadgets – you can’t leave home without a travel adaptor. Check the plug type and voltage of the destination you’re visiting before you go, or bring along a universal travel adaptor if you’re visiting multiple countries with different plug types.

If you have a lot of electronics, or you’re travelling with other people, a power strip is very handy. You can charge everything at once, or if you only have one outlet in your room, you won’t be fighting over who gets to use it first!

12. Entertainment for the road

When you’re planning a trip to Europe, you’ll probably have some long plane rides or coach journeys. Come prepared with some light entertainment like headphones to listen to music, or an e-reader stocked with books. While paperbacks are great, they can be very heavy, which isn’t ideal when you need to pack light.

Take our Travel Quiz: Where Should I Visit in Europe?

13. Sealable bags

It’s always a good idea to bring a few waterproof, sealable bags. They can be small dry bags or toiletry bags, and they’re great for storing wet clothes, liquid containers to prevent spillage, or valuables like your passport, cash or phone. 

When you’re planning a trip to Europe with Trafalgar , most of your expenses will be covered before you go, including hotels, transport and some activities and meals. But you’ll still need to bring some extra money for things like souvenirs and extra activities or meals. We recommend bringing your debit and credit cards, and some extra local cash. UK pounds and euros will get you across most of Europe, however you’ll need to check your specific destinations for their local currency.

We think you’ll also like: 15 European destinations that really come into their own in the winter

15. Important documents

You probably won’t leave home without your important documents like your passport and visa (we hope!), but you should also bring photocopies of these documents. In the unfortunate event you lose or damage your documents, the photocopies will be very useful in getting replacements or important information. We recommend bringing copies of your passport, visas, travel insurance and any tickets. It’s also handy to write down local emergency numbers on a small card and keep it in your bag on your trip.

Are you planning a dream trip to Europe? What essentials will you pack for Europe? Let us know in the comments below!

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28 Top Europe Packing List Items for 2024 + What to Wear & NOT to Bring

From London to Lisbon and Istanbul to Iceland, Europe is extremely varied. It’s important to know what to pack because in a single trip, you may find yourself trekking up the snowy Swiss Alps, sunbathing on the Mediterranean coastline, then trudging through the rainy cobblestone streets of Paris. Even destinations only a short flight away can feel on opposite ends of the Earth.

Asher and I have been to Europe 9 times and used our extensive experience to compile this list of items that we feel are useful on any European trip. I’ll also cover what to wear in Europe , what items NOT to bring, and some important FAQs. Bon voyage!

What to Pack for Europe – 28 Essentials

1. neck wallet.

Europe is notorious for its pickpockets, especially in cities like Paris, Rome, London, Barcelona, Amsterdam, and Dublin. An RFID-blocking neck wallet allows you to easily conceal your cash, credit cards, phone, eyeglasses, and hotel keys while not screaming, “I’m a tourist!” How? The neck wallet can comfortably hide under your blouse, t-shirt or jacket, making it next to impossible for pickpockets to reach. This particular brand is extremely well-made and affordably priced.

View on Amazon.com ➜

2. Lipstick-Sized Portable Charger

Getting lost in Paris at night with a phone that just ran out of batteries was a pretty frightening experience, and not one I’d like to repeat. That’s why I always carry this tiny lipstick-sized portable charger in my purse or neck wallet. It’s super reliable and ensures I will never be without a way to look at a map, call an Uber, or to communicate with my family or friends when I’m in a pinch.

3. Virtual Private Network (VPN)

A high number of websites (or parts of websites) get blocked in many European countries. For example, often, music videos and movies on YouTube or Netflix won’t be viewable. A good VPN like NordVPN will make it possible to visit every website without censorship.

Perhaps more importantly though, is the security that a VPN gives you. According to an IT Governance report , there were over 110K breaches in Europe during the month of November 2023 alone! We learned this the hard way in Paris where we had our credit card number stolen after using what we thought was a secure Wi-Fi network at an Airbnb rental. Whenever you go on someone else’s Wi-Fi, whether it’s at a café, airport, Airbnb, or hotel – you’re potentially putting your passwords, credit cards, and identity at risk of being hacked. With a VPN, you protect your sensitive data on any device with just 1-click. And it’s super affordable!

View NordVPN.com Options ➜

4. Universal Power Adapter

European plugs and outlets are about as varied as their terrain. The most common outlets in Europe include Type C, E, F, and G. To ensure you don’t get stuck in a country without a reliable way to charge your phone or laptop, I recommend bringing a universal power adapter that will work in all European countries (except for Italy ). This one pictured comes with two USB ports, a built-in fuse to protect your devices in case of a power surge, and a lifetime replacement guarantee .

5. Natural Jet Lag Relief Pills

Jet lag is rough when flying to Europe, so I was completely overjoyed when a friend told me about NO JET LAG. Not only is it 100% natural , but it has literally zero negative side effects. The groggy, fuzzy, heavy, exhausted feeling lifts faster and allows me to get on the move upon arrival.

Pro Tip: If you find yourself anxious or jittery during flights, another solid way to stay relaxed is with this Jet Lag Relief Essential Oil . It’s mild, soothing, and combats frazzled nerves. Put a few drops on the outside of your sleep mask and feel your body start to settle down.

6. Travel Insurance for Europe

Insurance is mandatory for parts of Europe and we never leave the country without it. Europe is not a cheap place to foot a hospital bill (especially when paying out-of-pocket), and accidents happen when we least expect them. Since your domestic provider typically does not follow you overseas, we recommend protecting your travel investment against situations like cancellations, delays, theft, baggage loss, medical transport, and international hospital expenses. We had a friend break her arm hiking in Europe. Luckily, she didn’t have to pay the $35K airlift or $8K in medical bills because she had insured her trip for peace of mind and it really paid off.

Our go-to provider is Faye because they are evolving the entire insurance industry! Instead of having you fill out piles of tedious paperwork, jump through hoops, and cross your fingers to get a reimbursement – Faye handles everything on their mobile app. They wired us the funds when we needed it most instead of hanging us out to dry. Plus, in case something comes up, they can even cover you for “trip cancellation for ANY reason.”

Get a quote in less than 60 seconds with Faye ➜

7. Quick-Dry Travel Towel

Having your own travel towel in an unfamiliar hotel or B&B can be a lifesaver. These microfiber towels weigh less than half a pound and are ultra-packable. You will find yourself using them to dry off after showering or swimming, as a picnic blanket, a beach towel, or to face whatever moisture you come up against ! They dry 10x faster than cotton and without a doubt, are perfect for day trips and general travel alike.

8. Packable "Just In Case" Bag

This bag is genius because it takes up literally no space. Collapsed, the “Just in Case” bag is about the size of a folded tank top — but when full, it’s a large personal item bag that fits under your airplane seat. It also attaches to the handle of your carry-on luggage for smooth airport transit. Throw it in your larger suitcase at the start of the trip – it’ll come in handy for all the souvenirs (and chocolate!) you will inevitably pick up along the way.

9. Windproof Travel Umbrella

In order to be able to enjoy yourself even in the midst of rainy days, you need a good quality travel umbrella like the one pictured. I prefer bringing this puppy along instead of buying an overpriced one from a side street vendor that is sure to break. This one is windproof and super compact at only 12-inches when collapsed. It also comes with a lifetime replacement guarantee !

Pro Tip: If you’re heading to an extremely rainy climate like Ireland or Iceland and want to be sure to stay dry even in unpredictable storms, throw these disposable ponchos in your daypack and wear them under your umbrella. Here are our favorites for adults and children .

10. Hanging Toiletry Bag

European “water closets (W.C.)” and bathrooms are considerably smaller than the ones you’re probably used to in the U.S. — and full of charming quirks! This said, you might find your B&B in Prague or a tiny hotel in Rome won’t have ample bathroom countertop space for your makeup and skincare routine.

I like to bring this ingenious hanging toiletry bag that easily hangs on any door or wall to ensure I always have as much space as I need to stay happy, sane, and organized. This one boasts 3 external pockets and 4 large internal pockets so that you can fit everything you’d need for a multi-week trip across Europe. I leave it packed with my smaller travel products so I can just grab it and GO when adventure calls. It’s a brilliant find and you’ll never want to leave home without it!

11. TSA-Approved Silicone Travel Bottles

Try these cute travel-sized bottles that will give you the perfect amount for a normal length trip abroad. They are TSA-approved so you won’t have to throw away any part of your precious regimen and all bottles will fit easily in the hanging toiletry bag (or keep them in their own case). It’s always more challenging to find the products that you might love at home while overseas, so if you have skincare and haircare products that you like, it’s best to bring them along.

12. Europe eSIM Data Service (Avoid Roaming Fees!)

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

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

Pick a data plan at Saily.com ➜

13. Luggage Straps

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

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

14. Discounted Tickets on European Attractions

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

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

See all European attractions at GetYourGuide.com ➜

15. Packing Cubes

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

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

Or view on Amazon.com ➜

16. Cooling Towel

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

17. Motion Sickness Patches

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

18. Luggage Locks

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

19. Travel Daypack

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

20. Wellies (AKA Rain Boots)

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

21. Water Bottle with Built-in Filter

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

22. Gorgeous Outfit

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

23. Women’s Comfy Flats

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

24. Activated Charcoal (Food Poisoning Fix)

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

25. Cheers Hangover Relief

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

26. Deodorant Wipes

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

27. Rolling Suitcase

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

28. Reusable Wine Bags (Leak-Proof)

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

1. Travel Stroller or Double travel stroller

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

View on Amazon.com ➜

2. Travel Car Seat and Stroller Combo for Infants

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

3. Travel Carseat for Toddlers and Little Kiddos

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

4. Stroller Clips

5. Woolino Sleep Sack

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

6. Baby Bjorn Travel Crib

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

7. Homeopathic First Aid Kit

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

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

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

Other Europe Packing List Items Not to Forget

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

What Should I Wear in Europe?

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

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

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

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

Packing for the Seasons in Europe

Spring – march, april, may.

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

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

SUMMER – June, July, August

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

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

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

FALL – September, October, November

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

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

WINTER – December, January, February

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

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

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

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

What NOT to Take to Europe

1. don’t bring lots of electronics.

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

2. DON’T PACK a bath towel

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

3. DON’T TAKE expensive jewelry

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

4. DON’T BRING lots of cash

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

5. DON’T PACK a bunch of books

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

6. DON’T TAKE a Europe-wide guidebook

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

7. DON’T TAKE too many clothes

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

8. DON’T PACK overly casual clothes

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

FAQs About Trips to Europe

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

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

2. How prevalent is English in Europe?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

6. Is it worth getting a Eurail pass?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

10. Do I need a visa to visit Europe?

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

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

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

12. Are there any good Mediterranean cruises?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Lyric Fergusson

Travel Tested Europe Travel Essentials: The Only Checklist You Need!

You’re planning a European trip and you need a Europe travel essentials checklist with all the travel-tested essentials for traveling to Europe so that you can have an amazing, stress-free trip. Well, good thing you landed exactly in this spot!

We all know planning a trip to Europe is a big deal and usually, it’s a bucket list travel goal getting checked off. The last thing anyone enjoys is the hassle of not having something they need!

The good news is I’ve traveled to Europe hundreds of times and along the way, I’ve made my fair share of Europe travel mistakes. But, they were all learning experiences! (Can you tell I’m a teacher?!)

So, I’ve put together everything I’ve learned in this ultimate guide of essentials for European travel so that you’re 10 steps ahead of the game before you even arrive at the airport.

Travel-Tested Europe Travel Essentials: The Only Checklist You Need!

You can fill countless suitcases ( spoiler: don’t do this) with whatever and however much you want but without the right things for your European adventure, a potential headache can steal all the fun from seeing the Eiffel Tower or Rome’s Colosseum.

So, let’s skip the headache and build your European travel checklist the right way!

Essentials for Traveling to Europe: The Fundamentals

When planning a trip to Europe, there are European travel necessities that fall into a few categories. Some are absolute musts while others are more personal or for comfort.

Let’s start with the fundamentals. After all, it doesn’t matter if you’ve packed the perfect outfits if you can’t get past airport security.

Whether you’re heading to Italy , Iceland , or Spain don’t leave home without using this guide as your Europe packing list!

Obvious, but a total deal breaker for international flights if there’s an issue with yours. Be sure it’s in good condition with no visible damage. Also, check that it has at least 2 pages with no stamps and 6+ months until its expiration date. I always keep my passport and important documents in this protective cover , but also for my sanity so I always know where they are! This passport case is great if there are multiple passports to store.

Driver’s License

If you’re renting a car, you will need to show this to pick up your vehicle. But even if you’re not, it’s smart to have another official form of identification with your photo on it in case something happens to your passport.

Maps for Driving & Getting Around

If you’re driving in Europe, download Google Maps for the area(s) where you’ll be driving before leaving home. From the Google Maps app, click on your name or initial in the top right corner. Select “Offline Maps.” Then, click on “Select Your Own Map” at the top. Highlight the area(s) where you need a map and download it. When you arrive at your European destination, you’ll be able to navigate in the car even without an internet connection. Similarly, the Maps.me app allows you to download maps to use offline. These maps can be especially great for when you’re out walking in a city because they show local shops, restaurants, walking paths, and more.

Using your debit card at a local ATM once you arrive is the savviest and most convenient way to get local currency at the best possible exchange rate. Also, debit cards typically have a Visa or MasterCard logo on them and require a PIN. In some cases, a purchase you need or want to make will require a card with a PIN like getting gas in a remote part of Iceland or buying entry tickets to a castle in Germany. ProTip: The Charles Schwab debit card refunds 100% of any ATM or withdrawal fees no matter where you are in the world. Don’t have an account? It’s free to set up. Plus, you can deposit a small amount into your newly created “travel account” to use for your trip. If your wallet gets stolen or you encounter any fraud, only this account with a small amount of money is at risk instead of your main bank account.

Travel Rewards Credit Card (with no foreign exchange fees)

For 95% (if not all) of your purchases in Europe from restaurants to shops, hotels, top sights, and museums can and should be made with a credit card. I recommend (and use myself!) a travel rewards credit card like this for every purchase possible for fraud protection (i.e. when that bowl you shipped from Tuscany never arrives) and for the best possible purchase exchange rate with no fee. ProTip: When making credit card purchases in Europe, you’ll be asked if you want to pay in Euros or U.S. dollars. Always choose Euros. The credit card processor is secretly charging you a convenience fee that’s baked into that seemingly helpful U.S. dollar conversion.

International Driver’s License

If you are renting a car in Europe, some countries like Italy, Spain, Greece, Germany, and others require this document. The confusing part is car rental companies will let you rent your vehicle even without this document. You only discover that you have a problem (and possibly a hefty fine) should you be pulled over by local police. Apply through AAA , either at their nearest branch or by mail. It costs $20 + tax. You’ll also need 2 passport photos which they can take for you at the branch for a small added fee. The permit is good for a year and can potentially save you a lot of money if you get caught without it.

Travel Insurance

Important, especially if you don’t have a travel rewards credit card that offers at least some basic protections. But whether something happens before your trip and you need to cancel or you fall on some uneven cobblestone and break a wrist, you want to make sure you’re ok, as is the travel investment you made. Plus, most multi-day tours require that you show proof of travel insurance .

Photos/Copies of Important Documents & Travel Bookings

Take photos of your passport ( a must! ), driver’s license, credit cards, travel reservation confirmations, etc, and store them in a cloud-based place like Google Drive or Dropbox. If you lose anything, you can access the photo from any device with an internet connection. You can also print copies of flight, hotel room reservation(s), and activity bookings if it adds peace of mind.

And even though the things above will help you navigate all the logistics of international travel, don’t leave home without the Europe travel essentials you personally need for an incident-free trip.

Prescription Medications

Contact lenses + at least 1 extra pair, feminine hygiene products.

Ladies, whether you use this , this , these , or something else, be sure to take the personal items you need to be comfortable.

First Aid Kit

This does not need to be overly extensive. I typically pack tablets for headaches, stomach troubles, a cold, and in case of an allergy, some Benedryl. I also like to carry a few throat drops with me, even if just for a dry mouth or throat, and a couple of band-aids for cuts or a blister. You’ll find pharmacies everywhere you go in Europe with everything you’d find at your pharmacy in North America. The idea here is just to pack a few of these things to hold you over should you need to get to a pharmacy in Europe. For reference, my first aid kit for European travel fits into a small plastic sandwich baggie.

Must-Have Travel Europe Essentials

The next part of the list covers Europe travel essentials that are important to have whether you’re road-tripping in Ireland or sightseeing in Budapest.

These important travel items keep you safe, and connected and help make your travel days to, in, and from Europe smooth and hassle-free.

Portable Power Bank

Keep your cell phone charged and ready to go whether it’s to take photos or to use a navigation app as you explore a new European city. And, even though most do, don’t assume all airplanes have a charging port for your phone. This is especially true on inter-continental flights where shorter-haul planes are used to go from one European country to another. (It’s not a good feeling to arrive at your destination airport with a dead phone!) I bring this portable charger with me on every Europe trip. Fully charged, it can refill my phone’s battery dozens of times before needing to be recharged and it doesn’t take up much space at all in my bag.

Plug Adapter

You’ll need to have the right plug adapter(s) to plug your devices into European outlets. I have an older version of this plug adapter set that I have used to travel extensively throughout Europe and have never had a problem. The mini power strip is perfect for charging multiple devices at once. ProTip: If you’re going to multiple European countries, check the plug type for different countries. They aren’t all the same. Or pack a reliable universal travel adapter .

Luggage Trackers

If you’re checking a bag for your trip to Europe, Apple Airtags are great for keeping track of your luggage and can even help you locate your bag should the airline lose it. You need to have an iPhone to track the airtag. If you don’t have an apple device, try the Samsung SmartTag or Tile Mate.

Wire/Gadget Storage

You could choose a traditional wire organizer to manage cables, your portable battery, and other gadgets. They are extremely useful for storage and sanity! I also love these mesh packing squares . I’ve had the same set for years and they’re so versatile! I can use them for my cords, plug adapters, and portable charger. But they’re also great for just about any small, loose objects you need to pack. They keep everything together so you can find whatever you’re looking for quickly and without unpacking half your bag to find it!

SIM or eSIM Card

Staying connected is one of the most important travel necessities for Europe! European restaurants, cafes, shops, and hotels tend to have decent to good WiFi. However, free public Wifi isn’t the safest or most reliable way to connect your device to the internet. Not to mention, you probably still want a connected device even when you’re not in one of these places. For U.S. travelers, your phone’s wireless provider likely offers a travel pass. But these are typically very expensive (i.e. $10 a day!) and come with very limited amounts of data. Put another way, this isn’t a great option for staying connected while in Europe. The better option is to purchase a SIM card when you arrive at your destination. Most airports will have them available for sale, as will shops in most major cities. Even better is to buy an eSIM before you leave so it’s ready to go when you arrive. An eSIM comes with the added advantage of not needing to buy and install a physical card once you arrive. Either way, SIMs and eSIMs cost less and can be purchased in different data amounts depending on how much you’ll need. I use Holafly to purchase eSIMs when I travel. If you use code, THEGLOBETROTTINGTEACHER, you’ll get 5% off your purchase.

Luggage Locks

These durable locks are TSA-compatible so you can lock your checked bags. If they’re inspected, the TSA agent can unlock it and the lock will leave a red indicator letting you know your bag was inspected. Beyond that, these handy locks are perfect for backpacks and a variety of other bags whether you want added security in your hotel or you’ve stowed your bag in a luggage rack on an overnight European train.

Secure Money Storage

From the airport to full days of European strolling and sightseeing, you want something to keep your money and credit cards safe. Whether it’s a moneybelt , a neck wallet , an anti-theft bag , or a scarf with a hidden pocket , take some precautions to deter pickpockets. From Barcelona to Paris , would-be thieves are more opportunistic than anything. Be alert in touristy areas and on public transportation. (Direct eye contact works wonders to let someone know you’re paying attention.) Add extra layers of security to avoid looking like a target and it’s unlikely you’ll have any problems. ProTip: Only take 1-2 credit/debit cards and a little cash with you when you head out for a day of sightseeing. Extra money and credit cards, as well as your passport, will be safest locked in the hotel safe.

Travel Day Bag

You want a small bag or day pack that you can use to store your belongings and comfortably walk and sightsee. This has been my go-to daypack whether I’m hiking along the Slea Drive in Ireland or standing in awe as I stare at the Mosque-Cathedral in southern Spain . It’s compact and holds a lot more than it seems it would. I typically pack this inside my carry-on, which is also convenient later if I need an extra bag for souvenirs. For something a bit more fashion-minded, this messenger bag or this crossbody clutch are both stylish and functional. Plus, they both come with theft-protection.

Reusable Water Bottle

Most European countries have clean, drinkable tap water. While you should always check the countries you’re planning to visit, rest assured you can safely refill your water bottle in most places. I’ve used the fountains in Italian cities and while hiking in the Cinque Terre, as well as filled up while driving Iceland’s Diamond Circle. So, save money and reduce plastic waste with a reusable water bottle !

Flight Creature Comforts (a.k.a. Things to Keep you Comfortable!)

A long flight across the Atlantic Ocean can be uncomfortable depending on what type of flyer you are and where you’re seated on the plane. But the good news is that small comforts go a long way! You want to arrive as rested as possible so that on your first day in Europe you can last the full day and adjust to the time zone. Ear plugs, an eye mask , cozy warm travel socks , and a neck pillow can all help you sleep on long-haul flights. I also always have my travel-sized toothbrush with me so that I refresh in the morning before we land.

Entertainment

Whether you have a Kindle to read or you want to downloaded audiobooks, podcasts, music, or your favorite shows on your phone or laptop, plan to do this in advance. Anything that needs to be downloaded should be done before you leave home so you don’t use up data or rely on slow hotel wifi once you arrive in Europe. With these things set up on your electronic devices, you’ll be ready for that long train ride or just lazing away an afternoon at a cafe in Paris .

Europe Travel Packing: How to Pack for Europe

One of the essentials when traveling in Europe is to pack light.

If you’re like most people, you probably have at least a couple of European cities or areas on your travel itinerary. Dragging and lifting big, heavy suitcases from airports to hotels onto trains and along sidewalks is a stressful hassle that’s just not worth your energy.

So, let’s cut to the chase. You need a few important items to pack lightly, a sturdy piece of luggage, a carry-on bag, and packing cubes.

Rolling Suitcase

This is the rolling suitcase I’ve used for nearly all my trips to Europe over the past several years. And let me tell you, I’ve put this bag through the wringer! It’s proved its durability by being checked at countless airports and rolled through train stations all over Europe, as well as hauled in and out of hotels, metros, and more. Put any doubts aside about whether this piece of luggage can hold everything you’d need for a 2-week trip to Europe. I’ve done it numerous times and even stayed for up to 3 weeks without really needing to do a big batch of laundry. I’ve used a couple of other bags, too, if I’m taking a shorter trip. These honorable mentions go to this 19″ carry-on roller or this backpack which I’ve used for more outdoorsy European adventures.

Packing Cubes

These are the packing cubes that quite honestly I couldn’t live without. They are what makes the above suitcase possible. Depending on how I want to pack, I use 3-4 of these packing cubes to hold all my clothes. The magic comes from the compression. Once you’ve rolled everything inside and zipped the cube, the 2nd zipper compresses the cube down to half its size. If necessary, you can smooth out any lumps by pressing on the cube to even things out. ProTip: Think about how you’ll manage dirty clothes. You could bring an extra packing cube or a dirty laundry bag. You could also shift clothes around as you travel, moving dirty clothes to a single packing cube and clean clothes into all the others.

Carry-on Bag

Without hesitation, this carry-on travel backpack has been my go-to for years. I absolutely love it. This bag has the perfect combination of smart storage compartments, style, and comfort. In fact, this is the most comfortable expandable backpack I’ve ever worn. I store things like my laptop, important travel documents, a change of clothes, and a 1-quart toiletry plastic bag with some necessities for the flight. Fully expanded, it can even hold a few days’ worth of clothes or those extra souvenirs you want to bring back home. ProTip: I like to pack a few extra plastic bags in case something leaks and for things like wet clothes.

Hanging Toiletry Bag

Not only does a hanging toiletry bag keep everything organized and easily repackable for European city-hopping, but it also allows you to keep things like toothbrushes and contact lens cases off the limited counter space around hotel sinks. You can still have all your toiletries hanging in the bathroom when you need them without worrying about knocking them off the sink.

Mini Travel Bottles

No need to take up space in your luggage with full-sized toiletries or create more waste with travel-sized (3.4 oz.) toiletries. These mini travel bottles are all TSA compliant, come in different sizes, and are easy to fill and dispense. Best of all, they’ve never leaked into my bag!

Clothes for Your Europe Travel Checklist

This section is a bit subjective because the clothes you pack will be dependent on the time of year you travel, what you’ll be doing, and your own style. But what to pack for a Europe trip is one of the most common questions I get, so I’ve compiled my best tips and recommendations below.

The most important thing is not to overpack. I know, easier said than done!

One way to avoid this is to plan your outfits, or if that is too difficult, pack clothes in a similar color palette. Pack neutral colors than can be worn with many different things. By doing this, you’ll inevitably have numerous pairings because most of the pieces will go together.

As you begin to pack, lay everything out first. You’ll likely be able to eliminate things that are duplicates (no, you do not need 3 black tops.) or items not in line with the majority color palette of the rest.

There are cliche items to avoid in European cities like flip-flops, workout clothes, or anything too casual like sweatpants or sports jerseys, shorts, super dressy clothing, or clothes meant for hiking and other outdoor activities. Not only will avoiding these items in big cities be more fashionable, but they also help you blend in more. When you blend in more, you’re less of a target for a potential scammer or pickpocket.

Think more along the lines of classic pieces in neutral, soothing, or dark colors. For example, navy, black, beiges, white, and soft pastels. Also, be mindful of clothing that is too revealing, especially if you’re planning to visit cathedrals or other religious sites like in Rome or Seville .

The shoes you pack are also (so!) important.

First, pack at most 3 pairs of shoes including the ones you wear on the flight. Think smart casual and comfortable when choosing which to pack to find a balance between fashion-friendly and comfortable. You’ll likely be walking a lot and oftentimes on cobblestones.

And ladies, unless you have a specific formal event planned, you won’t need high heels. Even if you’re thinking they would be nice to wear for dinner, high heels are near impossible on cobblestone streets and take up valuable suitcase space! Instead, opt for a boot with a chunkier heel if you feel you need something dressy.

The items below are meant to be ideas to help you see what’s typically in my suitcase.

Except for the hottest days of the European summer, jeans always work. They can be dressed up or down and worn with every top you pack. Everyone has a favorite pair of jeans they love so I want to give a shout-out to mine. These Duer Performance jeans are perfect for travel. They have a good amount of stretch and are very durable. What I love is they never seem to stretch out after multiple wears and they’re great for both city sightseeing and hiking. No matter which jeans you pack, go for a pair of dark-wash jeans. They’ll look cleaner for longer! Leggings are timeless, comfortable, take up little space in your luggage, and can be part of a smart casual or even dressier look. In other words, they’re perfect for travel! Other pants I’ve included in my suitcase and are versatile enough for a range of temperatures have been these Duer No Sweat Everyday Pants , these 7/8 joggers , and Eddie Bauer Departure pants . For hot summer travel days, go with wide-leg linen blend pants and other breathable fabrics instead of shorts.

No matter what the season is I like to bring tops in different sleeve lengths that can be worn on their own or under a layer like a cardigan or a blazer. For summer European sightseeing, short sleeves that cover the shoulders will be ok for most Cathedrals. Lightweight and loose-fit tops will be the coolest for walking around a European city. Generally speaking, I pack these 3/4 sleeve shirts or these shirts with long sleeves. Lightweight sweaters are perfect for spring and fall and can mix and match with many different types of bottoms. They can be dressed up with a scarf and boots or worn with jeans and sneakers when you want to be more casual. Classic fit tees always work. And of course, a long flowy top pairs perfectly with leggings.

A top or a bottom layer can make all the difference for both style and comfort! For winter travel in central and southern Europe, a thin, effective base layer becomes your secret weapon. It keeps you warm while you’re walking without adding bulk to your overall look. In northern Europe, like Stockholm or Finnish Lapland , a baselayer top and bottom are essential! For shoulder seasons, a casual blazer that can pair with nearly all of your outfits is a win-win! Cardigans, either lightweight , open front , or something chunkier , go with most types of tops and bottoms and are great for added warmth even for a breezy evening by the sea. A lightweight jacket can come in handy for those cooler spring and fall nights. It’s an added bonus if it has a hood in case you get some rainy days.

Accessories

A scarf is an absolute Europe travel essential! It can add to your overall look and even provide warmth when needed. I always have 1 (or 2) with me when I travel to Europe. Longer scarves create that perfect fall or transition season look. These square scarves are so fashionable and can double as a headband! If you’re looking for something that can double as a scarf and a wrap, these pashmina scarves are perfect. ProTip: As a general rule of thumb, it’s best to wear little or no jewelry when traveling to avoid being a target for potential theft.

Comfortable Shoes!

Perhaps the most important Europe packing decision you’ll make is the shoes you’ll bring. European travel inevitably comes with a lot of walking which will become difficult or even painful with uncomfortable and unsupportive shoes. A Chelsea-style boot works in every European city and can be worn day and night. (In Italy, I think it must be obligatory for every Italian woman to have a pair in black!) These winter boots are stylish and warm in the colder months. Allbirds are some of the most comfortable sneakers I’ve ever worn. Vionic shoes like these and these are great, too, and come with extra arch support. For summer European travel, I never leave home without these sandals . They’ve been an excellent investment and have saved my feet compared to other non-supportive summer shoes. Bottom line – Pack comfortable walking shoes for both day and night. Your feet will thank you!

Europe Travel Essentials FAQs

Is it better to travel with a backpack or suitcase in Europe?

There are pros and cons to both. Personally, I prefer a rolling suitcase and have never found it to be a problem even when traveling from city to city. Yes, there are cobblestones and sometimes no elevators when you need them. However, I’d rather lift my suitcase for a moment just to get up or down some stairs than always carry it on my back.

What size suitcase is best for a 2-week trip to Europe?

I’ve typically traveled with a 24″ suitcase for 2-3 weeks in Europe with the help of my packing cubes. If you need a bit more space, look at a 26″ or a 28″ but I wouldn’t go any bigger than that. Otherwise, it can become a real chore to move from place to place.

Is it better to fold or roll clothes in a suitcase?

Without question, it’s better to roll clothes in a suitcase. It saves space and protects against wrinkles. When rolled clothes are packed within a packing cube, it’s often possible to have 2 layers of rolled clothing inside.

How much should I pack for a 2-week trip to Europe?

In general, you’ll want to pack 3-4 bottoms and 5-6 tops. Dresses are also helpful (but not required) because they are complete outfits that can be dressed up or down. I’d bring 1-2 dresses if they match your style. For shoes, 2-3 pairs are plenty. Above all, comfortable shoes are absolute Europe travel essentials!

Also bring a scarf to use as an accessory, to cover up in conservative places, or for a little warmth. And unless you’re traveling in the absolute heat of summer, pack a blazer or light jacket (jean jacket, trench, etc.), as well as 2 sweaters or items for layering over a lighter top. Be sure the top layers go with the majority, if not all, of your clothes.

If your trip is in the winter, be sure to have a packable winter coat , a warm hat, waterproof boots , and layers. One of my hacks is to pack a couple of base layer tops so I can get added warmth without adding too much bulk to my bag or body!

Essentials for European Travel: Bottom Line

Your travel packing list for Europe needs to include a combination of essential items, gear, gadgets, and clothes. If you take the time to get yourself set up and packed using these packing tips before your trip to Europe, you’ll have done everything you could to ensure a hassle-free, comfortable, and amazing trip!

So, what’s on your checklist for European travel?

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The ULTIMATE Packing List for Europe – Essentials for 2024

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

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

Hi, we’re Rach & Marty!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Table of Contents

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

Choosing the right travel bag.

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

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

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

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

Do you need a small day pack?

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

We carry this small Osprey day pack

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

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

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

Click here and get 5% off Heymondo from us!

Choosing your Travel Clothes

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

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

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

Packing List for Europe: Clothing for WOMEN

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

Packing List for Europe: Clothing for MEN

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

Toiletries for Women

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

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

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

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

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

 Accessories/Extras for our packing list for Europe

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

Technology/Electronics

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

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

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

Safety in Europe

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

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

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

We 100% recommend Travel Insurance 

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

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

Transport and Getting Around Europe

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

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

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

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

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

How to Book Accommodation in Europe

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

Apps to download for Europe

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

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

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

Staying in Europe long-term?

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

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

Travelling Beyond Europe?

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

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

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

Group Tours in Europe

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

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

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

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

Don’t miss our EUROPE CITY GUIDES

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

Travel Tips & Inspiration

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Travel Planning Resources

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Home » Europe » Packing List

What to Pack for Europe in 2024: Clothes, Bags, Gadgets + More

Europe is one of THE definitive travel experiences. The continent offers a mind blowing, diverse range of places to visit, things to do and cultures to sample.

Because Europe is so fast and diverse, you may well be wondering what to pack. I mean, what electrical sockets do they use? What should you wear?

Well we have answers these questions for you. We’ve compiled a thorough guide on what to pack for Europe. In this post we advise on on what to wear in Europe, a breakdown of what to expect by season and how to pack for each, and what NOT to bring for your travels.

Packing light and smart can seem daunting and overwhelming, but follow our top tips, and you’ll be well on your way. Then, all you have to do is get out there and enjoy the ultimate European experience that awaits!

The Ultimate Packing List For Europe

What to pack for europe checklist: personal gear, final thoughts on what to pack for europe.

Nomatic Travel Bag

• Capacity > 30L
• Price > $299

Nomatic Navigator Carry On

• Capacity > 37L
• Price > $400

GoPro Hero 11

• Resolution > 5k

Arc’teryx Beta AR Jacket

• Price > $600

Insurance From World Nomads

• Price > Click For a Quote

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Packing for Europe made easy! Let’s kick of our Europe checklist and look at the essential items you should not be without.

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Best Backpack For Europe:  Nomatic Travel Bag

If you’re packing for Europe then you’re gonna need some luggage right?! For all types of travelers and destinations, our number one recommendation is the  Nomatic Travel Bag . It will be as at home at Berlin airport as it will be carried around Italian backstreets.

The Nomatic travel bag covers every detail to make backpacking travel the best experience. You have a choice between backpack or duffel bag carry, and extra carrying comfort for your back thanks to its innovative strap system and detachable sternum strap. And its black, waterproof material is every bit sleek and modern as it is durable and tough. There is a reason why most Broke Backpacker staff swear by this backpack.  Note that its only 30L so do pack light(ish) with this one.

Best Suitcase For Europe:  Nomatic Carry-On Pro

Backpacks not your thing? That’s ok. Our friends at Nomatic are back again with a great alternative to their badass Travel Bag; the Nomatic Carry-On Pro. 

This wheeled suitcase is ultra-durable, sleek, and comes with a handy tech compartment for transporting your laptop and other electronic bits. Plenty of European travellers use suitcases and this one will do you from the Atlantic drifts or Ireland, all the way to the Balkans and beyond. Check out our  Nomatic Carry-On Pro review  to learn more about this epic suitcase.

The Camera:  GoPro Hero9 Black

For most of us, our smartphones now feature cameras with stunning photo capabilities. But… if you are an aspiring photographer who wants to take next-level photos and video beyond iPhone selfies, I recommend going with an action camera like the  GoPro Hero9 Black .

It does deliver pro-quality video and gives you a bunch of a different angle options and shooting speeds to work with for photos (including a selfie-mode). Think of a camera purchase like this as a long term investment that will have you capturing epic shots well beyond your time exploring here.

If you are looking for something cheaper for video specifically, check out these epic  GoPro Alternatives .

Packing Cubes For Europe – Wandrd Packing Cubes

In case you have never used them, packing cubes are little compression cubes that allow you to neatly pack clothes in in order to help facilitate better packing. They allow you to pack more stuff, and to keep it all better organised.

For the longest time, I thought that packing cubes were a superfluous indulgence, but boy was I wrong. Now I never travel without a few. These ones from WANDRD are great quality and excellent value for money. Get them on your Europe packing list now!

Best Sim For Europe – HolaFly eSim

The good news about Europe is that there is extensive 4g and 5g Internet coverage offering ready access to taxi apps and food delivery apps. The bad news is that your native SIM card will most probably not work and so you will not be able to access any of this online goodness until you rectify that particular situation.

You can waste time hanging around phone shops queuing to get a plastic sim or you can simply install a eSim onto your phone before you leave home. You just access the HolaFly site, choose the relevant package, download it and off you go – you are online the moment you land at the airport. eSims are easier to set up and better than the environment than plastic sims. The downside is that not all phones are eSim ready.

When deciding what to pack and what to wear for Europe, you need to consider where exactly you are going and when are visiting. I mean, the Norwegian winters will require a substantially different wardrobe than the Andalusian summers.

We suggest doing proper research on your destination but as rule remember this – Summers range from hot to mild and winters range from mild to freezing. The more Southerly you get the warmer and the more North, the colder.

Another thing to bear in mind is that Europeans are mostly a smart bunch and take fashion seriously. Whilst you will see tourists wandering around Milan and Paris in cargo shorts and flip flops, make know mistake that we are judging them very severely!

Good Shoes – Salomon X Ultra 3 Low Aero

The chances are that your European trip will invoice some serious walking. Whether you are checking out the sites of London & Rome, or hiking the dolomites, Europe offers a good opportunity to exercise those legs.

Whilst you may get by with regular sneakers such as Converse, your feet will definitely feel the strain after strolling the Lido or Champ’s Ellysees so should consider getting comfortable walking shoes. Note that if that if that if you are visiting the Nordic countries in Winter, proper boots may be a better option. Our Iceland packing list has some good intel for cases such as this.

Good Rain Jacket – Arcteryx Beta AR

Did you know that the surface of the earth is 69% covered in water? And you know how that water got there? Yep because it tends to here rain here on planet earth quite a lot! This is especially true in the UK and Ireland – if your Europe trip includes a visit to either, then bring a rain jacket regardless of the time of year. If you are visiting any country in Europe during winter and autumn, then likewise, it will get wet.

There is no such thing as bad weather, only the wrong gear for it. Don’t let a bit (of a lot) of rain ruin your trip and make sure you are ready with some top notch rain gear. This is our pick of the many rain jackets we have tried. It’s reliable & stylish and looks good worn out in the mountains or in city bars.

Travel First Aid Kit

You don’t need to tote around half a pharmacy when visiting Europe, but a well-stocked first aid kit should be in all our backpacks. Stuff happens on the road and it’s inconvenient and embarrassing when you can’t manage small situations like a cut finger or hangover migraine. You can tuck this lifesaver away in a forgotten pocket – and it’ll be there when you need it.

Tip: Add a few bits and pieces to the first aid kit after you purchase it, like extra headache medicine, any personal meds you need (like allergy pills), whatever you take to calm your stomach and a few more plasters.

Travel Insurance From World Nomads

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Planner/Travel Journal

Keeping a journal is one of the best things to do when traveling. The Drifter Leather Journal by Kodiak is our favorite, it works great for digital nomads and organized backpackers and can be used as planner or a dream diary – whatever you want! 

Keep on track with your goals, travels and save those precious memories, especially the ones you do not want to share online. This one is bound in beautiful leather so it looks beautiful and will withstand life on the road.

Abaco Sunglasses

Europe does get bright. Southern Europe stays sunny all year round and even the Nordics get some serious winter light. A reliable pair of sunglasses is undoubtedly one of your Europe packing essentials. Our favorites are Abaco Polarized Sunglasses because they deliver on quality and style. 

They’re built tough with triple-layer scratch-resistant lenses and trademarked Adventure-proof Frame Material. You can also customize them with your choice of lens and frame colors to reflect your own style. 

Quick Dry Travel Towel (Gotta stay dry!)

Towels are essential backpacking gear as a lot of hostels don’t provide them or if they do, they may not really be all that clean. However don’t bring a ‘normal’ towel on your backpacking journeys, they are big and take up loads of room in your pack and they take ages to dry.

Travel pros like use micro-fibre dry towels that roll up into tiny, space saving proportions AND they dry unbelievably quick. A good micro-fibre travel towers is essential travel gear on any ultimate backpacking gear list. The Matador micro-fibre towel series are made by travellers for travellers. They are super light, and most importantly dry very quickly and are perfect for all types of backpacking trips.

Hanging Toiletry Bag

Another backpacker/traveler favorite for staying organized is a  hanging toiletry bag . It’s extremely helpful to have all of your accessories neatly gathered in one bag that you can hang for easy accessibility, especially when counter space isn’t plentiful or even available. A well-organized bag is worth having whether you’re tree whilst camping or a hook in the wall – it helps to have quick access to all your stuff.

Historically, I have been the guy who has my stuff all over the bathroom, so getting one of these things really changed the toiletry game for me. Plus they are not too expensive either. A no-brainer essential. 

Money Belt – By Pacsafe

Whilst Europe is not particularly dangerous, crime can still happen and tourists are sometimes targeted.

Therefore it is always a good idea to use a money belt to hide your cash just in case something does go wrong.

You can pick up a money belt for $5 but the buckle will break the second time you unfasten it so spend a few bucks and get this from the good peeps at REI.

Waterbottle –  Hydroflask Vacuum Bottle 32 oz. 

Packing a reusable water bottle is probably the best thing you can personally do to combat single-use plastic bottle use whilst traveling. There is simply zero need to buy plastic water bottles. Most European tap water is safe to drink, but this is not always the case. Do check. Even in counters where it is safe, it may not agree with your personally.

We love the Hydroflask Vacum Bottle for its quality and because it keeps cold water  cold  for many hours and vice versa for hot beverages. This bottle is the ideal water bottle to get not just for your Europe trip but for daily use. Please don’t be that person buying plastic water bottles. We are all judging you…especially mother earth.  If you go with the Hydroflask, you’ll probably never need to buy another waterbottle again.

The Basic Stuff To Pack For Europe

On top of the essential items listed above, here is an additional suggested checklist of what to pack for a trip to Europe:

• 1-2 pairs of comfortable pants/jeans
• 1-2 pairs of shorts (summer/late spring)
• A few pairs of socks
• (Sexy) underwear x 2/3
• Ladies: a few dresses, pants, outfits, or desired lady apparel for a night on the town. Whatever makes you comfy! 
• Dudes: A few collard shirts or something half-way decent for a night on the town. Whatever makes you comfy! 
• Smartphone with a good camera for photos if you are not bringing an actual camera
• Portable power bank  for charging your phone on the go
• Phone charger
• Amazon Kindle  for reading on trains and beaches
• Aeropress  if your European AIRBNB or Hotel has hot water making capabilities
• Copy of your passport just in case
• Cash (not too much, there are ATM machines everywhere in Europe)
• Packable Towel
• If you’re headed to Northern Europe in winter you might want to pack some gloves or mittens .

Our GREATEST Travel Secrets…

Pop your email here & get the original Broke Backpacker Bible for FREE.

See, packing for Europe isn’t that tough, is it? Well, it shouldn’t be now that you’re equipped with your 22 needs packing checklist, tips on what to wear and pack by season, special considerations for women and men, and what backpack you should get for your travels.

Just pack smart and don’t sacrifice style for packing light – you can do both! Focus on the essentials, and you have nothing to worry about – other than having an amazing time and getting the most out of all the splendors Europe has to offer!

Have any Europe packing tips of your own? Why not share them in the comments below? Happy travels, friends!

Mathilde Magnier

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Great info and suggestions but would also like some help with “winter” packing suggestions for two week trip in second half of December to France (visiting Paris, Strasbourg, Saint Etienne, Lyon) for gender specific women list and a men’s list. Planning on each checking a large bag and then carrying a small/medium travel bag (fits under seat or overhead bin).

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Travel Europe on a Budget

The Savvy Backpacker

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

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

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

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

Europe Packing List

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

Rolling Luggage

• Travel Backpacks

Packing Cubes

Packing folders.

• Toiletry Bags

Travel Underwear

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

Travel Towel

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

Travel Utensils

• Electric Plug Adapters

Travel Power Strip

• Phone Chargers

Digital Camera

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

Europe-Friendly Luggage

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

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

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

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

Rolling Luggage Benefits

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

Disadvantages of Wheeled Luggage

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

Features of Quality Rolling Luggage

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

Travel Backpacks For Europe

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

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

Benefits of Travel Backpacks

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

Disadvantages of Travel Backpacks

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

Features Of A Great Travel Backpack

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

Recommended Travel Backpacks and Rolling Luggage

Travel Backpacks We Like:

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

Rolling Luggage We Like:

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

Where To Buy Travel Backpacks and Wheeled Luggage

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

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

Get Organized For Traveling Europe

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

Behold the magical packing cubes.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hanging Toiletry Bag

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

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

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

Other Helpful Organization Aides

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

Travel Clothing Packing List

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

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

Efficient Clothing Packing Tips

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

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

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

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

Recommended Women’s Travel Underwear

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

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

• ExOfficio Thong
• ExOfficio Lacy Low Rise Bikini

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

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

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

Recommended Men’s Travel Underwear

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

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

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

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

Socks For Travel

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

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

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

Ideal Travel Socks:

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

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

Recommended Travel Sock Brands

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

Shoes For Traveling Europe

Wear. Comfortable. Shoes.

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

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

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

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

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

Shirts and Tops For Travel

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

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

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

Tops For Women Packing List

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

Women’s Travel Clothing Brands

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

Tops for Men Packing List

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

Jeans, Pants, and Bottoms Packing Guide

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

Pants & Bottoms for Women

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

Pants & Bottoms for Men

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

Outerwear Guide

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

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

Clothing Accessories

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

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

Europe Winter Weather Packing Guides

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

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

Travel Accessories Packing List

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

SIM CARD FOR CHEAP MOBILE DATA

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

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

Travel Daypack

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

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

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

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

• PackTowl Personal Microfiber Towel
• Biospired Footprint Lightweight Microsuede Towel

Keychain Flashlight

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

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

Padlock &  Retractable Cable Lock

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

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

Earplugs & Eye Mask

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

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

Water Bottle or Flexible Water Bottle

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

Travel Sleep Sheet

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

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

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

Digital Luggage Scale

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

Photocopies Of Important Documents

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

Ziploc Bags (Multiple Sizes)

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

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

Collapsible Umbrella

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

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

Toothbrush Cover

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

Lint Roller

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

Guide Books and Phrase Books

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

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

Electronics Packing List

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

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

Outlet Plug Adapters

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

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

Portable Phone Charger

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

Dual Voltage Travel Hairdryer

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

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

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

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

Tablet or Laptop

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

Smart Phone

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

Be sure to read our guide to using Data Plans Abroad

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

Travel Toiletries for Europe

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

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

Travel Insurance

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

Where to Buy Travel Gear

• Amazon : Our top choice for buying gear is Amazon because they seem to have the best selection and prices.
• Zappos : Zappos has a solid selection of travel gear. Their prices are sometimes a bit higher than other stores, but their free super-fast shipping and dead-simple returns are often worth the extra cost.
• REI : One is the largest outdoor retailer so they have a nice selection of backpacks and clothing.
• Recent Posts
• The Best Travel Backpacks | In-Depth Buyer’s Guide & Backpack Reviews - April 28, 2024
• Best Prepaid UK eSIM | Data Plan Buyer’s Guide - April 21, 2024
• How to Avoid Pickpockets in Europe — Tips for Outsmarting the Thieves - April 19, 2024

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Your Complete Europe Travel Checklist (+ Printable Packing List!)

By Lisa Wells January 12, 2020 Updated: December 5, 2023 · This post may contain affiliate links · Leave a Comment

Not sure what to pack for your upcoming trip to Europe? Here’s an easy-to-follow Europe travel checklist that you can use to pack for your upcoming European vacation. You’ll also find tips for planning your Europe travel outfits using a capsule wardrobe and a printable packing list.

Europe is an incredible continent for travel. Whether you're embarking on a European cruise or setting out to explore on land, there's lots to see and do, and oh-so-much history to explore. 

But there's also a lot to know about traveling in Europe, especially if this is your first time. And it's not at all like a US beach vacation or traveling to the Caribbean , where you're much more likely to spend your time shuttling between resort life and planned excursions. From the correct walking shoes to the right size carry-on for European airlines to the perils of dragging a heavy suitcase across those quaint cobblestone roads. Understanding what and how to pack for your European travels can make the difference between an enjoyable vacation and one that's frustrating.

With those frustrating yet avoidable situations in mind, here’s an easy-to-follow checklist that you can use to pack for your next trip to Europe. You’ll also find tips for planning your travel outfits and a printable Europe travel packing list.

Here’s a table of contents for what you’ll find below:

• Luggage & Packing Accessories
• European Capsule Wardrobe
• Toiletries & Makeup Essentials

Must-Have Travel Gadgets

Important travel documents.

• Other Handy Travel Items

Luggage, Travel Containers & Accessories

Just as your European outfit choices might look a little different when compared to domestic or beach travel, so too will your luggage and travel container choices. 

Luggage Fit for European Vacations

If you're traveling carry-on only to Europe, you will want to check carry-on luggage size and weight restrictions for each airline and/or land transportation method you'll be traveling.

Unlike domestic flights in the United States and Canada, European airline carry-on restrictions differ. And they're often much smaller than our domestic airlines. Planning for these restrictions will help you avoid surprise penalty fees from having your luggage checked at the gate.

Another thing to keep in mind when choosing your luggage is the ease of use. Particularly along cobblestone roads. With the incredible European history also comes older road infrastructure. We're talking things like cobblestone roads, buildings without elevators and narrow staircases.

To make getting around easier, the luggage that you travel with should take this into account. Traveling in a backpack carry-on (like this one ) can make it easier to get around, especially if you'll be moving frequently between destinations.

If carry-on only travel is out of the question, consider a lightweight hard-shelled suitcase with four sturdy wheels (like this one ). This will help with mobility across cobblestone roads and should help you avoid overweight charges if you indulge in a little shopping. 

Travel Containers That Make Packing Easy

From a carry-on friendly liquid bag to travel packing cubes , clever travel containers can help make packing for your European vacation much easier.

Ensuring that your carry-on liquids are 3-1-1 compliant  is especially important if you're traveling carry-on only, but this is something to pay attention to even if you're checking luggage. I've seen too many fellow travelers have their expensive, high-end toiletries confiscated at security! 

I like to decant my products into smaller travel-friendly containers. I like these for cosmetics and these for liquid shampoo, conditioner and body wash. 

Create a Capsule Wardrobe for Europe

Planning a capsule wardrobe for European travel can pose an interesting challenge if you're covering a lot of ground while you're away. Unlike planning a capsule wardrobe for a beach vacation , you're more likely to see a wide range of weather across Europe. For example, summer weather in Norway is different compared to the summer weather you'll encounter in Italy.

With this in mind, you'll want to gather weather information about each of the locations you'll be visiting. You'll also want to think a bit about the activities you'll be doing while you're away and whether you have access to laundry facilities. This will help you pack appropriately and help you feel more prepared.

Planning the Core of Your European Capsule Wardrobe

As a general guideline, vacations spanning one to two weeks will require a capsule wardrobe that includes about 10 to 12 core pieces of clothing. With a capsule wardrobe of this size, assuming that all items go together, you would have at least 18 different outfits to choose from during your time away. 

Weather can range widely in Europe, so a summer capsule wardrobe will look different when compared to a winter capsule wardrobe. 

For a summer climate, my European capsule wardrobe would include:

• Short-sleeve tops x 4
• Long-sleeve top x 1
• Dresses x 2
• Bottoms (mix of pants and skirts) x 3
• Lightweight jacket x 1

For a winter climate, my European capsule wardrobe would include:

• Long sleeve tops / lightweight knits x 4
• Thin base layer (long-sleeve top + leggings) x 1
• Wool coat x 1

And if you're traveling through a variety of climates, you might consider a capsule wardrobe that includes:

• Short-sleeve tops x 3
• Long-sleeve top x 3
• Mid-weight jacket x 1

Extra pieces, depending on your vacation activities, might also include:

• Scarf / pashmina x 1
• Versatile bathing suit x 1–I love traveling with this one
• Hat x 1– this one is my favorite travel hat   

And no matter the weather, you'll want to plan your shoes properly. Heels (even low ones) are not overly practical because of the cobblestone roads you're likely to encounter. Your best bet is to opt for a chic little loafer with lots of support (I love these ones from Arcopedico). Versatile and practical, keeping your outfit looking stylish while also protecting your feet and ankles from uneven roads and walkways.

Tips for a Versatile European Capsule Wardrobe

Here are my top three tips for planning a European capsule wardrobe with maximum versatility in mind:

• Choose a cohesive color story. The most versatile capsule wardrobes revolve around one accent color and two supporting neutrals. If you're feeling stuck, try pulling your color story from a patterned scarf. I usually travel with one and love using it as the inspiration for my capsule's color story.
• Make sure each piece goes with all the other pieces.  The only reason to pack a single-use item of clothing is for a specific activity or event you need that item for, like a wedding. 
• Pack multi-use items. For example, use the scarf you wore on the plane as a pashmina for visiting cathedrals and a cover-up if you spend an afternoon beachside.

Toiletries & Makeup Bag

I don't know about you, but I like to keep my toiletry bag light. My motto for vacation toiletries and makeup is: keep it simple. You'll quickly notice that Europeans typically wear less makeup, so the less-is-more approach will probably help you feel more at home among the locals. Plus, who wants to bother lugging around lots of makeup and beauty products on vacation!? 

Here are the must-haves in a keep-it-simple toiletries and makeup bag:

• Eyebrow pencil–defined brows go a long way in pulling together a minimal makeup look!   
• Powder blush
• Tinted moisturizer–with SPF 20 to provide a little extra protection
• Sheer lipstick that works as lip balm (I keep Twig on me at all times)
• Remover wipes for low-effort makeup removal
• Purifying shampoo–perfect for keeping locks feeling clean and hydrated while on the road 
• Body moisturizer
• Face moisturizer
• Sunscreen stick
• Deodorant (the charcoal one is my favorite–use code LISA for 10% off)
• Bar soaps & shampoos –great if you travel carry-on only and want to save space in your 3-1-1 liquids bag   

Simple, right? No need to pack a huge makeup and toiletries kit. Instead, figure out your own version of a five minute face and trust that that's all you need to look your best on the road.

There are a few travel gadgets that I don't leave home without because they make life on vacation easier, more enjoyable and more fun!

Here are the tech items you should pack on your European vacation:

• Phone & phone charger
• DSLR , camera charger, extra battery & memory card if you don't want to rely on your phone cam
• Kindle reader –perfect for long flights and train rides
• Travel adapter  

Proper packing for your upcoming travels goes beyond your wardrobe and travel gear. It's best to prepare for the unexpected–nobody likes to think about the things that could go wrong on a vacation, but the truth is you (or your travel buddies) could get sick or hurt.

Begin by reviewing travel advisories and vaccine and visa requirements for all countries you'll be visiting well before your departure date–at least 14 days. This will give you time to take care of any steps you may need to take to make sure your travel plans proceed as planned.

These are the documents you shouldn't leave home without:

• Passport–aim for six-months validity whenever you're traveling abroad
• Immunization records
• Travel insurance
• Foreign currency–in this case, euros and possibly pounds if you'll be stopping in the UK
• Boarding pass–I save space by using a digital wallet
• Travel itinerary–this also goes in my digital wallet (unless I’m taking a multi-country trip and think I may need to supply it at customs)
• Credit cards
• Driver's license or some other alternative form of personal ID
• Emergency contact info

I know many travelers that travel with a back-up copy of all the above-mentioned travel documents in a hard-copy format, but I prefer to travel with them stored on a  USB thumb drive . I usually tuck it into my first-aid kit and keep it separate from originals (just in case).

Other Handy Travel Items To Pack

And while none of these products are essential for European vacations, they make life a little easier while you're on the road.

• Waterproof bag –great if you'll be catching some beach time in the Mediterranean   
• Microfiber towel –handy if you'll be spending time by a beach or pool   
• Reusable shopping bag –for impromptu shopping trips    
• RFID travel wallet –perfect for keeping all your travel documents organized    
• Collapsible water bottle –water fountains are far and few between in Europe    

Grab Your Travel Checklist & Get Packing!

Now that you know what to pack for your European adventure, it's time to put this knowledge into action! Grab your Europe travel checklist and get started with your packing!

Looking for other travel packing tips? Check these out:

• How to pack for a beach vacation in just a carry-on
• What you need to pack for a cruise vacation
• The essential beach gear you need for a relaxing day at the beach

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

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

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

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

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

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

Packing List for Europe

Sustainable fashion.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Backpack or Suitcase

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

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

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

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

Bathing Suit

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

Rain Jacket

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

A formal outfit

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

Active Wear

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

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

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

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

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

Walking Shoes

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

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

Travel Adaptor

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

Camera and memory card

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

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

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

Wireless Range Extender

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

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

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

OTHER ITEMS

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

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

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

Travel towels

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

Water Bottle

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

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

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

Packing cubes

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

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

Vape Fluid 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What items have I missed?!

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

Printable Packing List for Europe

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

My travel tips and recommendations.

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

Accommodation

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

Photography and Technology

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

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

Travel Insurance

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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15 Europe Travel Essentials: Backpacking Europe Checklist

It can be overwhelming when traveling to Europe to make sure that you have all of the essentials you need for an international trip. This list of 15 Europe travel essentials will ease your mind and set you up for success on your upcoming travels! Use this as a checklist to make sure you have all of your Europe travel essentials.

1. Universal adapter

A universal travel adapter is an absolute essential when traveling to Europe. You do not want to be that person who takes the power out of the entire hotel!

Here is our favorite universal adapter!

2. charging bank.

Always keep an extra charging bank with you in case you do not have access to an outlet while traveling in Europe.

Large device charging bank Small device charging bank

3. Packing cubes

These packing cubes are an absolute travel gamechanger and definitely a Europe travel essential! They will allow so much extra space in your bag. While we always recommend packing light for travel, these will also allow you to bring a few extra articles of clothing while traveling to Europe.

Read how to pack light for long term travel here.

These are our tried and true favorite packing cubes!

4. travel insurance.

It is always a good idea to purchase travel insurance just in case your items are lost, stolen or any mishaps occur during your travels. World Nomads is a great option for every trip and affordable considering everything they cover!

5. Toiletry bag

Keep all of your extra Europe travel essentials organized with this toiletry bag. Especially if you are moving quickly between cities in Europe, you will be thankful that everything you packed has a place so you are not spending extra time sifting through your bag while getting ready.

Read here for 20 essential travel toiletries you should always pack!

Here is our favorite hanging travel toiletry bag.

6. copy of passport and travel documents.

Always have both printed and digital copies of your passport easily accessible with your belongings. This will save you tons of time if your passport is ever lost or stolen.

We also recommend printing your basic travel plans like flights and housing confirmations before leaving for a trip to Europe. While you will also have these details accessible on your phone, you want to be prepared in case you suddenly do not have access to the internet and need to find the information.

7. Microfiber towel

It is always a good idea to travel with an extra towel whether or not you are going to a beach destination! This towel takes up barely any space in your bag and you will find use for it.

Buy our favorite microfiber towel here.

Use code JLJ10 for 10% off all eSIM purchases.

8. RFID money belt or wallet

Protect your cards and cash with an RFID money belt or wallet while walking around crowded cities.

RFID Money Belt

Rfid wallet, 9. travel credit and debit card.

If this is your first time traveling internationally, then you may not realize the importance of an international credit and debit card. While there are tons of options out there, we use Charles Schwab for a checking account because there are no ATM fees anywhere in the world and Chase Sapphire Reserve credit card because of the high number of points it gives for travel related purchases.

10. Reusable water bottle

You will save tons of money by bringing your own water bottle to Europe. Fill it up for free in the airport or at the public water fountains in Piazzas.

Read other tips for traveling on a budget!

We love this sized water bottle for travel.

11. airtags.

These are very popular these days and totally worth the investment while traveling to Europe! Airlines are losing customer’s luggage more and more and these will keep you in the know of where exactly your bags are located.

Get a four pack of AirTags here.

12. luggage locks.

These are lightweight and easy to put on every bag you bring to travel in Europe. Oftentimes you may find yourself leaving your bag at a luggage storage office or behind the desk at your hotel. These locks will ensure your belongings are safe in your bag.

We also sometimes use these luggage locks on our day bags as a decoy. Whether you actually lock your bag or not, these may simply be used as a decoy to potential pickpockets.

Get a six pack of luggage locks here.

13. reusable shopping bag.

This may seem completely random but we promise, you will get so much use out of a reusable grocery bag. Use it to carry groceries for a picnic or bring home those extra trinkets. Simply lay this bag flat in your bag and it will take up no extra space when you are not using it!

This is the perfect versatile beach bag or reusable shopping bag!

Again, this may seem silly but a pen is essential for European travel. You will be thankful when you have it accessible on your airplane carry-on and can easily fill out any customs documents!

15. Travel apps on your smartphone

You will need specific apps downloaded on your phone to make traveling in Europe a breeze for you and your group.

Down these apps and set up your account on your smartphone before you travel to Europe!

Additional europe resources:.

Read this packing list to know exactly what clothes to pack! Still planning your itinerary? Here are our favorite 10 day Europe trip routes.

We hope this list of 15 Europe travel essentials prepares you for your upcoming travels! Love any of these ideas or have more to share? Let us know in the comments! Happy traveling!

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The guide to ultimate Travel Essentials for Europe packing Checklist

Many guides tell you what to pack for Europe, but through this one, we’ll show you how to pack your travel essentials for Europe trip. It’s natural that we want to prepare well because preparation lets us make the most of every moment. 

So, we stress out and pour over so many blog posts, articles, and guides in hopes of finding practical advice. This can get overwhelming especially for first-timers because of the surplus of resources. We also end up a lot more confused because they all tout to be the ultimate checklist. 

But you don’t need to stress because it really just boils down to what’s essential and what’s not. Meaning, what’s relevant to you and the kind of trip you’ll be going on.  

What Are Europe Travel Essentials?

Merriam-Webster defines essential as something that’s basic, indispensable, necessary . Something that’s so important your trip won’t happen or won’t roll out well. 

Examples of necessary, indispensable, and basic travel essentials are:

• Visa, money, travel insurance, clothes, and travel advisory knowledge.  

Why should you include these in your things to pack for Europe? Here are a few Europe travel tips that will help you get the principles behind essential and non-essential.

The Schengen Visa is your document for entry to European countries in the Schengen area. Entry isn’t possible without it. Northern region countries like Denmark, Finland, and Sweden require a Schengen Visa. Southern region countries such as Italy and Spain require this visa too.  

But you won’t need a visa for entry if you’re from a country who has an agreement with the European Union (EU) for a visa-waiver. Read more about Schengen Visa requirements on the European Commission’s official website . 

Opinions vary whether travelers should purchase Euros before the trip or simply withdraw via ATM upon arrival. A good rule of thumb is to have enough cash to get you by. Pro Europe travel tips are bringing cash and your credit card too.

Bring cash that’s at least a day’s worth of meals and transportation in case the ATMs or your credit card won’t work. Then upon arrival, withdraw in local currency using the ATM. Use your credit card to pay for larger expenses like hotels and restaurants.

Additionally, make sure your cards (ATM and credit) are activated or eligible for international use so you can withdraw and swipe without hassle.

Travel Insurance 

This will cover the costs of any mishap that may occur (that’s included in the policy) like accidents and hospitalization, lost or stolen items. An insurance is a travel essential you’d want to keep handy so you’ll always be ready.

If you travel without one and then something unexpectedly happens, you might end up spending your budget on those mishaps. Save your money and spare your piece of mind by letting a travel insurance cover you for those.

Seasonal Clothes 

Packing the right kind of clothes for the season will determine how much you’ll enjoy your trip. The chill factor of winter is different from the climate of fall.

And so is the breeze of spring different from the balmy weather of summer. You’d want to have the appropriate clothes in your travel essentials so the weather won’t get to you. But rather, add enjoyment to you and your trip. 

Travel Advisory Knowledge 

Get to know the European Commission’s latest travel advisory . Travel advisories are like your Europe travel guide, they update visitors about official tourism information about the country. Knowing the allowed activities will help define what items you’ll need to prepare for your Europe travel revenge.

You’ll also get to know what countries are allowed for non-essential travel to Europe. And also, the specific travel guidelines of each European country. 

• Check out the European Commission’s website for these. It’s best to get info from an official source. 
• Additionally, visit the Re-Open EU website. This is the European Commission’s official website that gives travel advisories for the European Union’s reopening. Updates are per country. Just click the dropdown list, choose the country, then you’ll find the travel advisory of the country you’re visiting. 

Travel Essentials for Europe Starter Pack

In this section, we’ll share Europe travel essentials in context of its top destinations. We’re sharing these Europe travel tips because we want to set you off on a great start. Let’s go!

Northern Europe

Southern europe, western europe, eastern europe.

As you choose what to pack for Europe, keep in mind the European country you’re visiting because each one’s local setting has its own needs. Bring this together with the country’s current season or climate and this will help you narrow down to only the most essential.

Northern Europe Top Destinations : England, Scotland, Norway, Iceland, Sweden

This region is where you’ll find the Northern Lights, the London Bridge, the Midnight Sun, endless hills to ski, beautiful fjords and landscapes amidst bustling modern cities.

Being up in the north makes these countries really cold during spring and winter so make sure to bring layers like coats, jackets, gloves, and sweaters to keep you warm. Remember to pack clothing items that are neutral in colors as well to blend in with the European fashion style. Pops of color are alright as long as they’re in taste.

Umbrellas and rain jackets are a must too because these areas experience moderate amounts of rain.

• Wind-breaker jacket, rain jacket
• Coats, gloves, warm jackets, thermal tops and pants, long sleeves
• European power adapter
• Sturdy city boots or hiking boots
• Comfortable and stylish loafers, boat shoes, ballet flats
• Light-weight backpack for nature trips, stylish daypacks for the city, backpacks you can wear in front
• Sunglasses, sunscreen

Southern Europe Top Destinations : Greece, Italy, Portugal, Spain, Croatia

Southern Region offers a Mediterranean Europe travel experience that indulges you with fresh seafood, turquoise waters, warm summers, and mild winters.

Things to bring for Southern region involve a more relaxed checklist for the warm enjoyable weather. Include your trench coat, gloves, jackets, and boots if you’re visiting during winter.

• Sunscreen, sunhat, umbrella
• Stylish sandals, loafers, walking shoes and flats
• Plain tops and bottoms in neutral colors, avoid shirts with graphic logos
• Beach wear: shorts, swimsuits
• Power adapter, power strip
• Light scarves, sweaters

E astern Europe Top Destinations : Hungary, Poland, Russia, Romania, Czech Republic

Eastern Europe is where you’ll find Europe top destinations like Budapest in Hungary, Russia’s historical and richly cultural St. Petersburg, and the fascinating architecture of Prague at the Czech Republic. Art, history, culture, and panoramic nature scenes greet you in Eastern Europe.

Eastern Europe enjoys a continental climate where winters are colder compared to other its Mediterranean counterparts. But summers enjoy some heat too which makes for pleasant walks around the city.

• Jackets: Parka, hoodie jacket, down jacket, insulated jacket, rain jacket
• Dark or neutral-colored t-shirts and dress shirts, long sleeves, slacks
• Sunhat, sunscreen
• Beanie hat, ear muffs for winter
• Sandals, ballet flats, comfortable dress shoes
• Walking shoes
• Hiking boots, snow shoes
• Thermal socks
• Daypack or small backpack you can wear in front

Western Europe Top Destinations : France, Germany, Austria, Belgium, Switzerland

Home of the iconic Eiffel Tower, the majestic Swiss Alps, the medieval architecture of Belgium, and the awe-inspiring blue mountains of Austria. Western Europe enjoys a generally mild climate throughout the year in its cool summers and comfortable winters. You’ll get to enjoy warmth and chill in Western Europe.

You might notice that the list will contain clothes that are a notch higher than the usual casual. It’s because the locals’ way of styling in Europe is a bit dressier than normal.

Blend in like one by dressing up in classic shades, staples, and shoes. It will be good for the pictures too! Additionally, having a light carryon daypack will make transit in between cities easier as you tour Eastern Europe.

• Dress shirts, slacks, elegant dresses or outfits
• Sweaters, cardigans, scarves, neutral-colored t-shirts, pants, jeans
• Dress shoes, pumps, stylish walking shoes
• Rain jacket, umbrella
• Water bottle
• Power adapter

So there you go, travel tips and travel essentials for Europe trip! We hope you learned a lot from this article. Bon voyage! You got this! If you have any ideas to share on travel essentials or travel experiences, please share them in the comments below  or  contact us

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Top 10 Best Travel Accessories For Europe in 2024

I’ve been traveling Europe for more than a decade now, and I’ve finally rounded up my favorites of the best travel accessories for Europe! This post contains a list of the Europe travel essentials you need based on my many successful (and failed) trips!

In even the best circumstances, traveling can be stressful. It becomes even more stressful when you can’t quite figure out how to organize yourself and ensure that you will be comfortable during your trip. Some of the best travel tips are found in what you absolutely need to bring with you on your trip. After tons of flights to Europe and hundreds of hours of travel, I’ve put together a list of the best must-have travel accessories for Europe in 2024. If you’ve started your Europe packing list already, add these to it! These items have changed how I travel, and I hope they make life easier for you, too!

🏆 TOP 3 BEST TRAVEL ACCESSORIES FOR EUROPE

Don’t Have Time To Read the Whole Article? Here are 3 of the best items I recommend to EVERYONE for European travel: ✅ 1. Passport Holder & Wallet ✅ 2. Portable Battery Pack (with cords!) ✅ 3. Packable Rain Jacket

1. RFID Blocking Travel Wallet (With Passport Holder)

When you’re traveling to Europe, it is so important to carry a wallet that has room for everything you need, all in one place . Otherwise, you’re that person in the airport searching desperately for your passport and boarding pass at the same time. Decrease travel stress by carrying the RFID-blocking Zoppen Travel Wallet. I’ve tried tons of wallets and passport holders while traveling to European countries, but this one is the absolute best. It easily fits my license, credit cards, passport, and boarding pass if I have a printed one. It also has a zipper pocket for coins, a SIM card, and a space for a pen, in case, like me, you always forget that you’ll need one to fill out arrival paperwork on international flights! This wallet has held up for years and many trips and is one of my top must-have travel items for Europe! I recommend it to everyone I travel with, and hundreds of people have come back and told me how much they loved it, too!

To Buy: Amazon.com , $13.99 (pictured), Amazon.com , $10.99 (masculine style)

2. Bluetooth Headphone Adapter

It’s pretty easy to forget that our handy dandy Airpods don’t work with most airplane entertainment. But let’s be real…no one carries regular headphones anymore. And…have you used the airline ones recently? Ouch. But Airfly has FINALLY solved this problem! I recently added this Bluetooth Headphone Adapter to my travel packing list for Europe- it is functional AND helps me save money! I don’t go anywhere without it anymore! And neither does my husband. Just plug this baby into the headphone jack of your airplane entertainment screen, and voila!- you can use your Airpods during your flight! No more tangled wires or trying to find your old Apple headphones that actually have an audio jack on them.

To buy: Amazon.com , $54.99

3. Portable Charger & Power Bank (My Top Travel Accessory for Europe)

One of the best Europe travel gear pieces you can’t go without is a portable charger. In a world where we use cell phones and other items so frequently for travel (keeping boarding passes, checking reservations, using maps), it is more important than ever to have access to a backup power source in case you need it. You do not want to be walking around a European city with a dead cell phone– this is a must-have travel gadget for Europe regardless of where you’re going! I switched to this portable battery pack last year, and I am obsessed with it. It has multiple charging cords integrated right in (so you don’t have to remember them), is lightweight and packable, and it holds MORE THAN three full charges for my Iphone.

To Buy: Amazon.com , $19.99

3. Travel Blanket

You can never overestimate the value of a good travel blanket. And, no, you shouldn’t just use the ones they give you on the airplane. Do you know how many times they’ve been used? Gross. This one checks all the boxes. It is cozy but not suffocating- just warm enough to cuddle up with on an airplane without sweating profusely. I’m no longer the girl trying to stuff her favorite blanket into her carry-on (lol). The Eversnug blanket folds up into a carrying pouch that attaches directly over your suitcase handle. No more trying to balance all of your carry-on items in your hands!

To Buy: Amazon.com , $29.95

4. Apple Airtags (The #1 Must-Have Travel Item for Europe In 2024)

If you’ve been paying attention to travel chatter lately, you’ve no doubt seen that international airports are a disaster right now, specifically with so much lost luggage. I’ve read countless stories of people who have been able to find their bags in rooms packed with suitcases just by using an Apple Airtag. So, of course, this made the list of must-have Europe travel items for 2024. I 10/10 recommend you place an Apple Airtag inside your luggage. It will provide you coordinates so that you know where it is, and you can set it to emit a sound when you’re nearby. For such a low price, the peace of mind is worth it! I never travel without an airtag; it’s one of the best travel accessories for Europe this year!

To Buy: Amazon.com , $28.99

5. A MUST-Have Travel Accessory for Europe: Belt Bag

If you haven’t heard yet, belt bags are back. They are all the rage right now, and they’re also the best items for European travel. This bag, though it looks relatively small, holds a deceptively large amount of things. While out and about on your Europe trip, this will hold cards, sunglasses, chapsticks, and any other necessary items. There are a few separate pockets which made keeping things organized so simple! Plus, it comes in 44 different colors. As an added bonus, this can be strapped directly across your chest, making it much easier to prevent pickpocketing, which you’re likely to come across in cities like Paris .

To Buy: Amazon.com , $15.98

6. Packing Cubes

I was not a believer in packing cubes…until I tried them. Now, they’re one of the best items for European travel that I use. Because you definitely need a well-packed suitcase. These ones are incredible. They are made of durable fabric, easily zipper, and pack beautifully in a suitcase. And, the best part? They’re compression! Once you pack them in, you can make the cubes even smaller with the second compression zipper . They save SO much space. I love that this pack comes with a few different sizes of pouches and options for colors so that you can mix and match them as needed. I’ve been able to pack ALL of my son’s clothes for a trip in just one pouch, so pack those babies full and enjoy the added organization once you arrive.

To Buy: Amazon.com , $21.59

7. Foldable Rain Jacket

No matter where I’m going, I never leave home without my Columbia packable rain jacket. It is literally one of the best travel accessories for Europe…and everywhere else. (But I have the black, not the blue pictured!). This jacket is perfect for any type of weather. It is light enough that you won’t sweat terribly in spring rain but heavy enough that it provides some warmth against the chill. It is waterproof, meaning that you can enjoy your trip even if it does rain! This thing is a lifesaver for rainy days in London or Amsterdam . Although this jacket comes in at a bit higher price point, I’ve had mine for ten years and it is still in great shape!

8. Travel Electric Toothbrush

This is the most recent travel accessory I’ve bought for my Eurolpean trips, and it is amazing! Like…ten times better than I even thought it would be. This electric travel toothbrush comes in a sleek carrying case for easy, clean transporting. The toothbrush is rechargeable via USB, making it incredibly convenient to grab and go. And it takes up literally almost no room. I am all about easy, useful, and clean . Yes, please.

To Buy: Amazon.com , $39.96

9. Reusable Water Bottle

High on my list of Europe travel necessities is a reusable water bottle. Without one, you will be spending a ton of money on water, drinking out of plastic bottles, and wasting time trying to find water during your travels. Instead, save money and drink out of this stainless steel one. Although not collapsible like some travel water bottles, I SWEAR by this one. It is durable, fits in the side pockets of my bookbag easily, and has a hook on top, making it easy to clip this reusable water bottle to anything! This is a must-have for any Europe trip to help you stay healthy and hydrated and save money.

To Buy: Amazon.com , $39.95

10. Travel Adapter

Alright, let’s dive into one of the unsung heroes of European travel – the travel adapter plug. This is one of those things you don’t realize you absolutely need until you don’t have it. And then you’re in trouble. European sockets are different, depending on which country you’re in. You’ll need a plug adapter in order to charge electronics or plug in anything at all. That’s where the trusty travel adapter comes into play. Compact, easy to use, and absolutely essential, this one has been a tried and true item on my Europe essentials packing list for quite a long time. To Buy: Amazon.com , $11.99

Conclusion: Best Travel Accessories For Europe in 2024

There you have it! All of my favorite travel necessities and the must-have travel items for Europe in 2024. Whether it’s your first trip abroad or your 30th, hopefully these travel accessories for Europe make your life a little easier and your travels more enjoyable!

If you’re planning your first international trip, read about my top 33 tips for a first trip abroad – everything you need in order to travel confidently and efficiently!

Traveling with Kids? Read Next: Secret Tips For Disney World with Toddlers

Taylor Beal, owner and author of Traverse With Taylor, has been traveling in Europe for more than a decade and helps others explore Europe easily through amazing guides and itineraries. She has adventured through more than 20 countries, searching for the best experiences, must-try foods, and delicious beers! She spends a lot of time in Scotland and Amsterdam, two of her favorite places! Taylor is also a Holocaust educator focused on raising awareness around WWII historical sites.

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• Packing Lists

The Ultimate International Trip Packing List

Here’s everything you didn’t know you needed to make your international trip as seamless as possible.

In This Article

• Packing Checklist

Frequently Asked Questions

• Why Trust T+L

Travel + Leisure / David Hattan

We don’t tend to complain a whole lot when it comes to planning and preparing for travel. Sure, there are bad parts, boring parts, and stressful parts… but all the negative aspects of the travel process give way to some of the best and most memorable life experiences. The packing process may fall into the less-fun side of preparing for travel but, with the right mindset and strategy, it can make the whole trip.

Packing for an international trip specifically requires careful planning; sure, you can probably find forgotten items while abroad in many destinations but having everything already secured in your suitcase will make your trip a whole lot easier. Nobody wants to spend a half day of travel searching for something they forgot at home.

Packing Checklist for an International Trip

This guide will help ensure you’ve packed everything you could possibly need for an international trip, whether it’s your first time leaving the country or you’re a seasoned traveler. Having these items on hand — along with the appropriate clothing and shoes for your destination — will help make your trip as smooth and seamless as possible.

• Best Adapter: Epicka Universal Travel Adapter
• Best Wi-Fi Hotspot: Simo Solis Lite 4G LTE WiFi Mobile Hotspot
• Best Camera:   Nikon ZF
• Best Tripod: Phopik Aluminum Extendable Tripod Stand
• Best Portable Power Bank: Nimble Champ
• Best Noise-canceling Headphones: Apple AirPods Max
• Best Luggage Tracker: Eufy SmartTrack Link

Accessories

• Best Passport Cover: Paravel Cabana Passport Case
• Best Travel Wallet: Leatherology Travel Wallet
• Best Luggage Belt: Cincha Travel Belt for Luggage
• Best Reusable Water Bottle: Memobottle A5
• Best Packing Cubes: Gonex Compression Packing Cubes
• Best Neck Pillow: Cabeau TNE S3
• Best Money Belt: Raytix Money Belt
• Best Compression Socks: Comrad Compression Socks

Luggage and Bags

• Best Lightweight Backpack: Longchamp Backpack Le Pliage
• Best International-sized Carry-on: Away The Carry-on
• Best Checked Bag: July Checked Plus
• Best Belt Bag: Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag
• Best Travel Laundry Bag: Miamica Travel Laundry Bag
• Best Tote: MZ Wallace Medium Metro Tote Deluxe
• Best Toiletry Bag: Away The Toiletry Bag
• Best Rolling Duffel: Eagle Creek Cargo Hauler Wheeled Duffel

We know, we know. You’re not setting out on an international trip to be consumed by your tech, but there are certain essentials that can make a good trip even better, whether aiding an itinerary, ensuring your safety, or simply entertaining you while in transit. Packing things like a reliable wi-fi hotspot and a portable power bank means you’ll always have access to your smartphone for emergencies (or just to use Google Maps to navigate your self-guided walking tour without having to pop into a cafe every few blocks).

Best Adapter

Epicka universal travel adapter.

• Ease of Use 5 /5
• Effectiveness 4 /5

Traveling abroad with a good adapter like the Epicka Universal Travel Adapter is non-negotiable. It comes equipped with plugs for more than 150 countries but the convenient sliding design means you won’t have to fuss with (or be responsible for) multiple attachments. During the testing process, we particularly appreciated that this option comes with so many USB ports (four USB-A and one USB-C) as it cut down the need for multiple adapters and made it incredibly easy to charge all our tech at the same time.

Best Wi-fi Hotspot

Skyroam solis lite.

Do you remember the days of traveling before Google Maps? It’s hard to imagine a time when we’d actually have to ask locals for directions or hope we’re reading a paper map properly. The Solis Lite 4G LTE WiFi Mobile Hotspot makes modern travel even easier by ensuring you’re always connected to a reliable Wi-Fi network, wherever you are. It doesn’t require a SIM card or a contract and functions seamlessly in more than 135 countries around the world. It can also support up to 10 devices at a given time — which means your travel buddies will thank you, too.

Best Camera

Nikon zf mirrorless camera.

The Nikon ZF immediately catches the eye with its beautiful, retro-inspired body. Don’t let the decidedly cool aesthetic fool you though — this camera also makes it super easy to channel your inner photographer. The 24-megapixel, full-frame mirrorless camera is very simple and user-friendly but offers enough bells and whistles to quell more advanced photographers. It’s also incredibly small and lightweight which makes it great for throwing into your day bag (no oversized camera bag required!).

Best Tripod

Phopik aluminum extendable tripod stand.

Another way to ensure great vacation photos? Investing in a decent tripod stand. Selfies have their time and place but being able to set up a tripod to get group shots in idyllic settings will ensure frame-worthy visual souvenirs. The Phopik Aluminum Extendable Tripod Stand is a great option for those who travel with both a digital camera and a smartphone as the convertible device can actually be used as a selfie stick and tripod for smartphones while also extending into a more stable tripod suitable for a heavier camera. It also packs down ultra-small when not in use so you won’t have to run around all day with a full-sized tripod under your arm.

Best Portable Power Bank

Nimble champ portable charger.

The Nimble Champ is a game changer for long travel days when you might not have the chance to wait by an outlet for your smartphone to refuel; the 10,000 mAh battery is more than enough to charge the average smartphone between three to five times in full. If you’re concerned about having your phone for safety purposes (like to grab an Uber, use Google Maps, call for help, etc.), a compact lightweight charger will also offer serious peace of mind. We like that this option is made using 99 percent certified recycled plastic so you can feel good about the sustainable choice. And, if you need even more juice, there’s a more powerful Nimble Champ Pro with a 20,000 mAh battery instead.

Best Noise-canceling Headphones

Apple airpods max.

• Comfort 4.5 /5
• Sound Quality 5 /5
• Battery Life 5 /5

The AirPods Max are admittedly a bit expensive but they’re worth the price point for the quality and overall ease of use, especially if you’re a lover of Apple devices. During the testing process, we found the user experience to be the best out of all the headphones we tried. We really like how easy they are to connect to an iPhone or MacBook without having to go searching into the Bluetooth settings (there’s a simple pop-up that’ll ask you if you want to switch and that’s that). We found the headphones very intuitive to use and the sound quality is excellent as well with a strong enough noise-canceling feature to provide serenity everywhere from the airplane to the subway.

Best Luggage Tracker

Eufy smarttrack link.

• Ease of Setup 5 /5
• Accuracy 5 /5
• Functionality 5 /5
• Design 4.5 /5

Popping a luggage tracker, like the Eufy SmartTrack Link, into your checked luggage will allow you to track a suitcase in real time which offers peace of mind and can help expedite the return of lost-in-transit baggage. This tiny tracker was our top pick during testing due to its ease of use and convenient size and shape. The durable square comes equipped with a hole in the top corner that makes it easy to add a carabiner or key ring onto the tracker to attach to internal zippers or other items, too.

It can be tricky to strike a healthy balance between actual travel essentials and products that seem useful in theory but actually just end up taking up precious space in your suitcase or carry-on. The following items are designed to make travel as easy and comfortable as possible and are all compact, easy to pack, and won’t end up weighing you down. They’re also highly practical for staying organized and put together while making your way through passport control or while taking public transport from the airport to your hotel.

Best Passport Cover

Paravel passport case.

• Capacity 5 /5
• Quality 5 /5

You might not think you need a passport cover, but this Paravel Cabana Passport Case is a particularly great option since it not only keeps your passport safe and secure but holds up to eight cards, too. During the testing process, we found the luxe material to also be durable, and it was very easy to get our cards and passport in and out of the slots without having to stretch things out. We also like that this one comes in several colorways and can be customized with a hand-painted initial as well.

Best Travel Wallet

Leatherology zip around travel wallet.

If you’re hoping to score something with a little extra space, the Leatherology Travel Wallet is a particularly great choice as it’ll keep all your stuff organized without becoming too bulky or heavy. The compact design has a slot for pretty much everything you could need including your passport, cards, printed boarding pass, coins, cash, and even a pen. During the testing process, we found that this option stood out for its buttery soft leather that feels much more expensive than it is, and for the expansive interior that could easily hold more than a couple of passports. 

Best Luggage Belt

Cincha travel belt.

The Cincha Travel Belt is one of those travel accessories that you don’t realize just how much you need until you have it on-hand while on the go. The travel belt is designed to attach your personal items — like a coat, shopping bags, and even your handbag — to the handle of your rolling luggage without worrying about it sliding around or falling off the top of your luggage. This is a particularly handy option to have on hand while changing terminals or taking trains to the city center when you don’t want to have to worry about lugging multiple loose pieces.

Best Reusable Water Bottle

Memobottle a5 the flat water bottle that fits in your bag.

There are certain things that all responsible travelers should consider when setting off on a trip — and being a more sustainable citizen of the world is one of them. The easiest way to cut down on your carbon footprint while traveling? Investing in a reusable water bottle. The Memobottle A5 makes it easy to ditch single-use plastic while traveling without feeling like, you know, you’re carrying a massive water bottle around with you. It’s designed to be ultra thin and can fit in a briefcase or handbag. However, don’t let the thin size fool you. This water bottle fits a standard 750 milliliters which is the exact same as the single-use bottle of Smartwater in the airport shop.

Best Packing Cubes

Gonex compression packing cubes.

• Design 5 /5

Packing the right amount of clothing for an international trip can be a bit of a daunting task which is why we’re such major advocates for the Gonex Compression Packing Cubes . The set of four cubes comes in a variety of sizes to help keep garments in order while planning for your trip. The compression cubes are also designed to squish down into the smallest size possible so you can fit even more into that carry-on roller without worrying about taking up too much space in the overhead bin or running out of room for souvenirs.

Best Neck Pillow

Cabeau tne s3 travel pillow.

• Quality 4.8 /5
• Portability 5 /5
• Durability 5 /5

Think of the Cabeau TNE S3 as the neck pillow for travelers who hate carrying a neck pillow. The compact neck support folds down into a tiny bag that can easily be stored away in your carry-on or handbag while on the go. We loved this neck pillow during the testing process for its memory foam material and 360-degree support. It’s designed to attach to your seat and will keep you from that annoying head bobbing that can often happen when trying to sleep upright.

Best Money Belt

Raytix rfid money belt.

• Comfort 5 /5
• Performance 5 /5

Money belts might not be the most exciting of travel gear — but having this under-clothes accessory can offer major peace of mind if you’re nervous about carrying your valuables out in the open while on the go. The Raytix Money Belt was our top pick during our tests because of its smooth material that feels comfortable on the skin and a discreet size that doesn’t bulge when placed properly under your clothing. We also really liked that it was wide enough to comfortably fit a passport without having to wiggle the zipper in order to close the pouch.

Best Compression Socks

Comrad compression socks.

The Comrad Compression Socks do the impossible: make compression socks look cool and stylish. The double-dip ombre design is fun and aesthetically pleasing — especially compared to your average drugstore alternative — and the socks themselves are extremely soft to the touch. During the testing process, we found they offered gentle compression without being uncomfortable. They were breathable and we could easily wear them on a long-haul flight without any itchiness whatsoever either.

Selecting the right luggage for your international trip is half the battle. For example, if you’re hoping to avoid checking a bag at all costs, you’ll want something that is no bigger than 21.5 inches, and as lightweight as possible. If you’re looking for a suitcase that’ll handle the arduous checked baggage process, you’ll want to look for a hard-sided spinner with enough give that it won’t crack or puncture while in transit.

Choosing the right personal item and day bag is an equally important decision. Handbags and backpacks should be lightweight and multi-purpose, meaning that you’ll be able to use them at multiple times, like day trips to the country, jaunts around the city center, and evenings out.

Best Lightweight Backpack

Longchamp le pliage backpack.

Given the brand's reputation for high-quality bags , it's no surprise the Longchamp Backpack Le Pliage is forever our go-to travel bag when we’re aiming to pack light but stylish. Longchamp Le Pliage in general is kind of the perfect bag concept for travel as it packs down ultra small when not in use but can expand to a full-sized bag as needed. The backpack is no exception; it’s small and lightweight but stylish and large enough to fit a day — or night — of essentials without screaming tourist or looking too bulky. We also like that this option is made from a durable nylon and can withstand the bright sun and heavy rain without getting damaged.

Best International-sized Carry-on

Away the carry-on.

Packing for international air travel can sometimes be a little dicey, especially if you’re going to be flying on budget airlines with little wiggle room on suitcase sizing. The Away The Carry-on sits just below most international carrier limits so you won’t run into any surprises at the gate, but we also found that it’s incredibly roomy. During the testing process, we were able to fit everything we needed for a four-day trip with room to spare. The hard plastic shell is also incredibly durable — even when clobbered with a baseball bat — so it will hold up with heavy duty use, too.

Best Checked Bag

July large luggage.

• Organization 4.5 /5
• Maneuverability 5 /5

The July Checked Plus is our top choice when it comes to the best checked luggage for international travel , especially if you tend to be an overpacker as it fits 110 liters worth of items. Even if you don’t fill it to the brim, we particularly like the number of pockets and organizational features inside to keep things sorted. During our testing process, we found it was incredibly easy to pack a fair amount while giving everything a designated spot. We also found the wheels and handle to be the smoothest we’ve found in a suitcase which made it easy to trolley the suitcase around through the airport and into the city.

Best Belt Bag

Lululemon everywhere belt bag.

The Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag is, well, kind of everywhere, but it’s easy to see why. It’s incredibly lightweight and durable while offering a discreet but stylish solution to storing your daily essentials in a safe and secure manner. It’s also made of water-repellent polyester so you can get caught in the rain with less issue than a leather or cotton alternative. This option also comes in a huge variety of colorways to best suit your style, but we’re major fans of the classic black. During the testing process, we particularly appreciated how easily the zipper glides; it doesn’t pull or stick which makes it easy to quickly grab items like a wallet or passport out without having to use two hands. Plus, if you have even more to carry, there’s a 2-liter version , too.

Best Travel Laundry Bag

Miamica travel laundry bag.

The Miamica Travel Laundry Bag is another one of those items that is easy to forget or brush off as being unimportant but can actually make such a big difference while on the go. This lightweight laundry bag will take up no room in your luggage but makes staying organized while traveling so much easier. Whether you’re doing your own laundry in your hotel room or planning on sending the essentials off for dry cleaning, having a separate bag to store your dirty clothes in means you won’t have to rifle through your suitcase trying to decipher what is clean versus what needs to be washed.

MZ Wallace Deluxe Tote

• Portability 3 /5
• Ease of Use 3 /5

Don’t underestimate the power of a great tote while traveling as options like this lightweight MZ Wallace Medium Metro Tote Deluxe won’t take up much space in your luggage but can be a lifesaver if you somehow find yourself with more stuff to pack on your way home. We found this bag to be super roomy without overpowering us with a ton of built-in pockets and even a removable pouch to keep gear organized on the go. It’s also worth noting that this tote comes in a few different sizes from mini to large if you’re looking for something a bit bigger or smaller instead.

Best Toiletry Bag

Away large toiletry bag.

There are a lot of utilitarian toiletry bags out there but options like this one from Away both get the job done, and look good in the process. We found it very easy to pack and organize, thanks to an abundance of pockets and pouches to store everything from makeup brushes to delicate bottles. The material feels high-end and sleek but we found it to be secure and waterproof so nothing spilled out while in transit either.

Best Rolling Duffel

Eagle creek cargo hauler.

• Design 4 /5
• Maneuverability 3 /5
• Durability 4 /5

The Eagle Creek Cargo Hauler Wheeled Duffel is our top pick for the best rolling duffel for international travel since it’s huge yet still incredibly easy to roll through the airport or tote by hand on public transit. We particularly loved that this bag came with its own packing cubes and could easily convert from duffel to backpack to rolling suitcase. Despite its multi-functional design, it really excelled at everything. We found the bag very smooth to roll and just as easy to grab and go when needed. The material also feels very durable; like it could withstand heavy use without having to be too precious with it.

Unfortunately, yes, there are quite a few items that you can’t bring on your international trip depending on the country you’re heading to. Take this into consideration when shopping for travel products. Some destinations don’t allow certain tech — like drones — while others are very strict about the medication you’re allowed to bring into the country. If you have any doubts or concerns about what you can and cannot bring to a certain locale, be sure to check the official TSA security screening rules and the screening rules of the specific country you’re planning to visit.

Every airline has its own set of rules when it comes to carry-on and checked baggage size and weight restrictions. The standard carry-on size outside of the United States tends to be a lot smaller, so you’ll want to ensure your hand baggage doesn’t exceed the restrictions of the airlines you’re flying. It tends to be about 26 pounds and 21.5 inches in height for most European carriers, for example, but always check with the exact airlines you plan to use.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

For this article, Kaitlyn McInnis used her experience as a full-time travel writer to curate the best options to suit most needs and international destinations.

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18 Must-Have Backpacking Europe Essentials

Last Updated on December 1, 2023

by Michael Rozenblit

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

So it’s only a few weeks until you get on a plane and fly off to Europe. You’ve spent months planning your perfect backpacking Europe route. You’ve saved for your trip and know your daily budget back to front. Yet as your trip gets closer and closer, have you wondered what you may have forgotten to pack? Don’t fear! We’ve compiled our list of backpacking Europe essentials that we never fail to bring on any trip.

These items are often left at home by travellers who get caught up in the excitement of their trip and can be difficult to pick up on the road, particularly in Eastern Europe and the Balkan countries.

Table of Contents

1. Packing Cubes

I honestly don’t know how I used to travel without these before. My backpack was always a mess and I would have to take everything out to find the one item I was searching for. These days, even if I’m only going on a short weekend getaway, I always take my  Eagle Creek compression packing cubes (also  available direct from Eagle Creek here ).

They are incredibly lightweight, come in a range of sizes, compress my items and make finding things a breeze. They will score you great karma points if you are staying in a hostel as you won’t be that one traveller that seems to always be rustling plastic bags in the early hours of the morning!

While there are many packing cubes to choose from, I recommend these Eagle Creek Compression Packing Cubes as they have the additional benefit of compression which a lot of packing cubes don’t have.

2. Universal Plug Adapter

Many hostels are notorious for having a lack of electric outlets in their rooms. I’ve often stayed in dorms where, despite there being eight or ten beds, there are only one or two outlets in the room!

Rather than fighting with other backpackers over those outlets, I now travel with a Universal plug adapter that has additional USB slots .

This means that you can charge multiple items overnight and also be covered if visiting a country with a different plug socket. You’ll also likely become the hero of your dorm with this Universal Plug Adapter as several backpackers will be able to share one outlet!

3. Power Bank

Speaking of lack of electric outlets, another great gadget to have if travelling with multiple electronic items is a power bank.

These lightweight nifty devices allow you to charge items when on the move. This is super handy if you’ve had one too many beers the night before and forgot to plug in your phone before going to bed! They’re also great if you’re planning on camping throughout your trip.

I highly recommend the Anker Powercore Power Bank as one of my essentials for backpacking Europe as it’s one of the most lightweight power banks on the market.

4. Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is something to consider when backpacking Europe.

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

Another option if you’re travelling on a tight budget or long term is SafetyWing which offers travel medical insurance at extremely affordable rates.

Don’t know what to pack for your trip? Check out our complete backpacking Europe packing list!

5. Kindle E-Reader

For a long time, I resisted the development of technology and stuck with paper books. However, a few years ago, I finally bought a Kindle E-reader to save space in my backpack and I haven’t looked back since.

Not only are e-readers significantly lighter than paper books but I’m now able to load several books onto my device before beginning a trip. This means I’m no longer in danger of being stuck with the one torn paperback left in the hostel book exchange before a ten-hour bus ride.

I recommend the Kindle Paperwhite   as it has a backlight which is useful as many hostels don’t have bedside lamps!

6. Smartphone

As somebody that travelled before the age of smartphones, it pains me to say that this is a backpacking Europe essential. However, travelling with a smartphone makes your trip so much easier!

Whether it’s having access to maps to navigate to your hostel, a translate app to communicate in more off the beaten path areas or know the correct exchange rate, having a smartphone will save you time and money.

To prevent dealing with some of the negative consequences of having a smartphone, consider limiting your time on social media and remember to enjoy your surroundings rather than staring at your phone!

7. International SIM Card

While you can get by with having a lot of offline apps, it certainly makes sense to have a SIM card when backpacking Europe.

Whether it’s finding your way to your hostel, letting your mum know that you’re alive or meeting up with friends you meet on the road, having data on your phone is incredibly helpful.

I recommend this Three Prepaid SIM with 12GB data   or the  Orange Prepaid SIM with 30GB Data as the best international SIM cards for Europe. Just remember, to not let having access to the internet take away from the experience of backpacking Europe!

8. Noise Cancelling Headphones

One of the most relaxing aspects of travelling can be getting onto a long train or bus ride, playing your favourite music or podcast and tune out while looking out the windows.

Unfortunately, there are plenty of distractions that can get in the way of this such as a noisy passenger or the bus driver deciding to blast his favourite album! That’s why an essential for backpacking Europe is a good pair of noise-cancelling headphones that drowns out the noise around you!

9. Microfibre towel

While some hostels are beginning to provide towels for guests, this isn’t always the case which is why I always travel with a microfibre towel when backpacking Europe.

These towels dry super quickly meaning you can shower without worrying about carrying a damp towel in your backpack all day. They also pack down very well in your backpack.

This microfibre towel has the added advantage of an antibacterial treatment to prevent odours from building up!

10. Rain Jacket

While this list of backpacking Europe essentials doesn’t include every piece of clothing you should take with you (check out our backpacking Europe packing list for that!), one item that I often see travellers forgetting about is a quality waterproof rain jacket.

When on a longer trip through Europe, you will undoubtedly go through a range of climates and whether you are going for a hike or just want to keep exploring a city, having a rain jacket in Europe will ensure that you can continue your plans without everything you’re wearing getting soaked.

I recommend the North Face Resolve Jacket ( women’s click here ) and have used it on countless trips around Europe.

11. Water bottle

The tap water in almost everywhere in Europe is perfectly drinkable so avoid contributing to unnecessary waste and take a reusable water bottle with you rather than buying plastic bottles everywhere you go.

Reusable water bottles also have the additional advantages of not developing bacteria anywhere near as easily as plastic bottles and do a good job at insulating your drink so you can carry around hot or cold drinks!

12. Travel Locks

Backpacking throughout Europe is, for the most part, incredibly safe. However, it’s worth taking some precautions to make sure your items are safe. I travel with both regular TSA compliant locks   and also a travel cable lock .

The regular locks can be used for locking the zippers on your backpack and for hostel lockers – I prefer combination locks so you don’t need to worry about losing the key!

The cable locks are handy for locking your backpack to a stationary object – I often do this if leaving my backpack in a common storage area or on an overnight train.

13. Flip flops

While hostels in Europe are undoubtedly getting cleaner then they were a decade or two ago, when washing in shared showers it’s always good to be extra cautious!

Flip-flops are a backpacking Europe essential if you want to make sure you avoid picking up some nasty athlete’s foot during your travels. Luckily, a good pair of flip flops can serve multiple purposes as you will surely end up at a beach or two during your travels.

I always travel with my trusty pair of Havaianas and they have served me well! Just make sure not to wear them when carrying your backpack (as I see many travellers doing!) and instead pack a good pair of walking shoes as this is terrible for both your back and your feet!

14. Eye mask & ear plugs

When staying in hostels, you will undoubtedly encounter some inconsiderate backpackers who decide to switch on the main light at 2 am and decide to unpack their entire backpack .

That’s why I consider an eye mask and earplugs absolute essentials when backpacking Europe and staying in dormitories.

I prefer cotton eye masks as they’re significantly more comfortable than the cheap eye masks you tend to get on economy flights. Similarly, I like to travel with a large box of earplugs as they wear out quickly and there’s nothing worse than realising they don’t work in the middle of the night!

15. Notepad & Pen

While many millennials might scoff at the idea that a notepad and pen are essential items for backpacking Europe, I can’t imagine going on a trip without them!

Not only they are great for keeping a diary of your trip but I also find it incredibly useful for writing down directions in case your phone battery dies. Plus, your trusty notepad won’t let you down if you want to get the e-mail address of that person you just met in the hostel common room!

I start every trip with a fresh Moleskine journal and don’t think that will ever change!

16. First Aid Kit

One of the important must have items that I recommend travellers take with them is a small first aid kit.

Chances are that at some point during your travels, you will injure yourself or get sick so rather than having to rush to the pharmacy when that happens, it’s best to be prepared with a few essential items in your backpack.

Combine this first aid kit with some basic medicines like paracetamol, ibuprofen and anti-diarrhoea tablets will ensure that you’re well prepared!

And if you’re fortunate enough to stay perfectly helping during your travels then I’m sure there’ll come a time when one of your fellow backpackers will find your kit handy!

17. Pocket Knife

Either when you’re on a train, in a poorly equipped hostel kitchen or just out and about for the day, a quality pocket knife will undoubtedly come in handy while backpacking Europe!

A Leatherman pocket knife will last you for countless trips and will not only allow you to eat and drink on the road easier, but it will also help you repair bits and pieces easily while travelling.

It comes with a 25-year warranty so you can have confidence it’s worth the investment!

18. Lightweight Shopping Bag

As a backpacker, you’ll surely be purchasing at least some of your food in local supermarkets, so to help and environment and avoid paying for supermarket bags, consider packing a lightweight shopping bag.

Apart from being able to carry groceries, you can also use it as additional storage if you pick up any items while abroad and is definitely necessary for many local markets where they don’t even offer the opportunity to buy a bag!

Setting out on a backpacking Europe trip is a rite of passage for many young travellers. Hopefully, this list of essentials has reminded you of some items that you might have forgotten about in the excitement of planning your trip!

What items do you consider to be must-have items for travel? Let us know in the comments below!

Related Posts:

The Best Walking Sandals for Europe Travel

The Best Shoes For Backpacking Europe

The Best Travel Purse for Europe in 2024

About Michael Rozenblit

Michael is a co-founder and writer for The World Was Here First. Both solo and with his partner, Maggie, he has travelled to over 50 countries across the globe and has a particular affinity for the Balkans and Eastern Europe. He’s lived in numerous countries worldwide but currently resides in his hometown of Melbourne, Australia. Read more about Michael

Thank you for sharing your essentials. Wouldn’t a pocket-knife be confiscated at the airport when one doesn’t check in luggage (traveling light)?

Yes – it’s only good to bring if you’re checking a bag!

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Cruise packing list: the essentials chosen by experts.

This cruise packing list includes all of the essentials – plus items you didn't know you needed.

Essentials to Pack for a Cruise

Packing for any trip takes some planning, but cruise vacations present a unique challenge – particularly due to limited stateroom storage space and sparse (or overpriced) options for purchasing accidentally forgotten items.

To help you decide what to pack for a cruise, we've curated a list of essentials recommended by cruise experts who regularly sail the high seas. Download the U.S. News Cruise Packing List pictured above to reference while you pack, and read on to learn more about the recommended items and where you can purchase them if needed.

• For packing and planning
• For travel and embarkation day
• For the cabin
• For the ship and shore excursions

Find your perfect cruise

Carry-on bag

Regardless of whether you bring checked luggage, you'll need some type of carry-on bag . Since checked bags need to go through security as they do at airports – and because you may need to wait for your stateroom to be ready, just like at a hotel – you'll want to be able to access any necessities pre-cruise. These might include a swimsuit, sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat for the pools; medications; a bottle of water; and your smartphone, of course. You'll also want to keep your credit card , passport, and any other important documentation or valuables close by. A carry-on backpack works especially well since it can double as a day bag for shore excursions.

Checked bag

While you'll likely want to bring a checked bag, consider sharing one with your ship mate(s) to maximize stateroom storage space. Or, consider bringing medium-sized luggage, such as the The Medium by Away , for checking in.

Read: The Best Checked Luggage Options

Garment bag

Courtesy of Halfday

While many cruises are less formal these days, a garment bag can still be handy for keeping select garments wrinkle-free (since clothing irons are prohibited on cruise ships). Top-rated options include the The Garment Duffel by Halfday and the Briggs and Riley Baseline 22" Carry-On 2-Wheel Garment Bag , both of which double as traditional luggage. If you pack your luggage right, you can make this your only suitcase, in addition to a carry-on bag.

Packing cubes or vacuum-sealed bags

Packing cubes are one of the best ways to organize your belongings for travel – especially in a tight cruise ship cabin. Top-rated options include the Veken packing cubes on Amazon (usually priced around $20) and all of the Pack-It Sets by Eagle Creek. The Pack-It Starter Set is especially ideal for cruising since it includes a garment folder designed to minimize wrinkles in clothing. Some cruisers also swear by vacuum-sealed bags , even though they can be a bit more tedious to pack.

Carry-on caddy

Ashley Kosciolek, senior cruise writer at The Points Guy, recommends a carry-on caddy , particularly if you're flying to your embarkation point. "I have a fabric sleeve that slides down over the telescoping handle on my carry-on to provide pockets for my passport, phone, coffee – all the things I used to have to juggle during check-in."

Digital luggage scale

The compact Etekcity scale – approximately $10 on Amazon – can weigh bags up to 110 pounds and help you avoid overweight baggage fees.

Bungee cord

"Especially for travelling with the family, I use a bright-green bungee cord to strap multiple pieces of luggage together," says Aaron Saunders, senior editor at Cruise Critic. "It's a lifesaver when boarding trains or disembarking ships, particularly when you ' re maneuvering a stroller and a little one around, too."

Luggage tracker

Courtesy of Apple

A luggage tracker isn't just useful for air travel. Attach one to your checked cruise luggage to see when it has arrived in your stateroom (or if it's stalled at security). Chris Gray Faust, executive editor at Cruise Critic, doesn't go anywhere without her Apple AirTag after her luggage got stuck in Vancouver for over a week last June. "My AirTag use has expanded beyond my checked luggage, too. I also have AirTags in my handbag, my carry-on, my keychain and my wallet."

Cruise insurance

Due to the unpredictable nature of travel, cruise insurance can be a wise purchase ahead of your voyage. Travel policies can cover unforeseen expenses such as trip interruptions and medical emergencies.

While a passport is often required for cruising, rules can vary depending where you're traveling. Determine whether you need a passport for your upcoming cruise ; if you do, triple-check that you have it packed the day of departure.

Credit cards and local currency

When cruising internationally, consider getting small amounts of each country's currency to have on hand in port. Depending where you go, some local markets may only accept their own country's currency, not U.S. dollars or credit cards. It's also nice to leave cash gratuities for cab drivers, tour guides or servers; in the European Union, 1- and 2-euro coins are convenient and appropriate tips. In ports with vendors that do accept credit cards, be sure to carry a Visa or Mastercard , as some shops and restaurants do not take American Express .

RFID wallet

It's important to protect your travel documents with an RFID wallet like the TIGARI Passport Holder or the ZOPPEN RFID Travel Passport Wallet , the latter of which can hold multiple passports for a family. "Thieves and hackers can steal your credit card information just by using skimming devices," explains Jill Schildhouse, a cruise expert and U.S. News contributor who always travels with her RFID wallet. "And because your wallet wasn't even touched, you won't know it happened until you see your credit card statement."

Medications

Pack more than enough of your prescription medications as well as any over-the-counter medicines you'll need, just in case you encounter an itinerary change or travel delay. While some travelers find it easiest to bring personal medicines in their prescription bottles, others find travel pill boxes to be especially helpful for organization. The Sukuos Weekly Pill Organizer is a well-rated option, with detachable boxes for each day as well as compartments for morning and evening medications.

Sheet masks

Since flying can be so drying for the skin, Faust likes to use sheet masks. "My first step the night before I board (because you should always fly in a day early) is to hydrate with a sheet mask (usually from a Korean brand like Ballon Blanc or FaceTory )," she says. "If I'm meeting up with a friend, I bring an extra sheet mask so our trip starts out feeling a bit like a spa day!"

Magnetic hooks

A surprising fact: Cruise ship cabin walls are made of metal, which means you can optimize your storage space by hanging some of your belongings on magnetic wall hooks. The hooks are perfect for holding bulky coats or boots if you're traveling to a colder climate. You can also use them for wet gear on expedition ships and adventure cruises, or for drying out bathing suits after days at the beach or pool. Purchase a set of magnetic hooks for less than $10 on Amazon .

Like hotels, cruise ships can only provide so many hangers. Bring a few extras from home or pick up a pack from your local dollar store. You might also try packable hangers .

Wrinkle release spray

Whether or not you bring a garment bag, a travel-size bottle of wrinkle release spray, such as Downy Wrinkle Releaser spray , is useful to have on board. If you combine a spritz or two with the steam from your shower, you should be able to smooth out some of the wrinkles in your clothing.

Laundry detergent

"If you don't want to pay for laundry service or spend precious time in the self-service laundry room, bring a small bottle of laundry detergent like Woolite to wash key items in the sink: underwear, bras, quick-dry hiking shorts, bathing suits, etc.," recommends Schildhouse. "Every cruise ship shower has a retractable clothesline you can extend to drape the clothes over while they dry. This can also help cut down on the number of items you need to pack."

Over-the-door organizers

Over-the-door organizers with clear or mesh pockets allow you to find your feminine hygiene products, makeup, jewelry and other small items quickly – without having to hunt through multiple drawers or a tight stateroom closet. It's a good idea to purchase a two-pack like this option by Simple Houseware Store (available on Amazon), since you can also use one to store shoes and maximize floor space.

Courtesy of Poo-Pourri

It goes without saying, but to say it anyway: A toilet spray like Poo-Pourri is a must for your cruise packing list. Any smell – pleasant or not – will travel quickly in small staterooms with small bathrooms. Buy a travel-size bottle to keep in your cabin.

Shampoo and conditioner

Cruise experts agree it's best to bring your own shampoo and conditioner in travel-size bottles, as most cruise ships don't provide separate shampoo and conditioner anymore; instead, they offer all-in-one dispensers. Colleen McDaniel, editor-in-chief at Cruise Critic, likes to pack her shampoo and conditioner in the popular Cadence Capsules , noting she also uses them for another essential: sunscreen. "These capsules are easy to fill, never leak and have clear labels, which you can customize," she says.

Wine or Champagne

Most major cruise lines allow each guest to bring one to two bottles of wine or Champagne on board, while some luxury cruise lines allow even more than that. Disney Cruise Line also gives guests the option to bring a six-pack of beer instead of wine or Champagne. Be sure to consult your cruise line's policies when packing for your trip.

If you plan to bring wine or Champagne, you'll likely need a corkscrew . While some cruise lines may prohibit corkscrews, others allow them onboard; check your cruise line's policy before sailing. Bringing wine with a twistable cap may be a good alternative.

Portable humidifier

Cruise ship cabins can feel dry – especially in the colder months. A portable humidifier like the GENIANI Erie (around $25 on Amazon) can provide some relief. At about half a pound, this USB-powered device will fit neatly into your checked bag or carry-on luggage. The travel humidifier features two mist settings and has an automatic shut-off option, plus a night light to help you see around your cabin in the dark.

International travel adapter or converter

You'll likely need a travel adapter, since cruise lines homeported in international locales may have different electrical sockets and voltage strengths than you're used to in the U.S.

McDaniel recommends the OneWorld65 Travel Adapter . "I've used a lot of different travel adapters over the years, but this is my favorite. It charges up to six devices at once, has USB and mini-USB options, and works in over 200 countries," she says. "While many cruise ships have U.S. outlets, most usually also have European outlets. This adapter lets me take advantage of that outlet I'd otherwise ignore." She also notes that while cruise lines are getting better about having more outlets on their ships, it never feels like enough to keep your phone, camera battery, tablet, watch, headphones/earbuds and laptop charged (times two or more if you're traveling with others).

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Sound machine

Cruise experts agree a sound machine can be helpful for blocking out the sound of late-night partiers returning to their staterooms (or your snoring spouse). Schildhouse likes the LectroFan Micro 2 for cruising. "It plays non-looping white noise and doubles as a speaker to play tunes while you get ready for dinner."

Tech organizer

Courtesy of Bagsmart

A tech organizer like the BAGSMART electronics organizer case – available on Amazon for about $20 – can store all your cables, plugs, SD cards and earphones in one zippered, compact bag that will fit easily in your carry-on luggage. Despite its small size, it can also hold bulkier items like a small laptop charging cord.

First-aid kit

A first-aid kit is a good thing to have on hand no matter where you go. You can make your own using supplies you already have at home, or buy a premade first-aid kit on Amazon for about $20. While all cruise ships have medical facilities, it's useful to have these items with you on shore excursions, especially those involving active adventures.

Hand sanitizer

Regularly washing your hands and/or using hand sanitizer is essential to staying healthy while traveling, especially on a cruise ship. Stock up on a few travel-size bottles of hand sanitizer (less than $2 each at Walmart) ahead of your trip. If you're looking for something with less alcohol that's also less drying, check out Babyganics Alcohol-Free Foaming Hand Sanitizer .

If you're a parent, you know that your infant or toddler needs a very specific size – and in some cases brand – of diapers, which may very well be unavailable to you on your cruise ship or in the ports of call. Bring more than enough diapers to play it safe at sea.

Most cruise lines also require that non-toilet-trained infants and toddlers wear swim diapers in the children's water play areas. For the sake of sanitation, kids must be toilet-trained to use the pools on cruise ships.

Many cruisers like to personalize their cabin with stateroom door decor. Not only is it a fun tradition, but decorating the door can make it easier to locate your room, too. You can find lots of fun decor ideas on Pinterest as well as Amazon.

" Duct tape is a life-saver in many situations," says Kosciolek. "I primarily use it to attach my printed luggage tags, but it's also great for mending clothing issues on the fly and fixing broken luggage until you can get it back home."

"As a parent, I like to bring lanyards with sleeves so my kids can wear their keycards and not lose them," says Erica Silverstein, senior cruise editor at The Points Guy. "We hang them on the magnetic hooks I put on the wall, so they don't get lost in the cabin either."

Courtesy of Sea-Bands

If you're prone to (or think you may be prone to) motion sickness on cruise ships, put a pair of Sea-Bands on your cruise packing list. These soft wristbands use acupressure to prevent and minimize nausea and vomiting on board, and they are a reusable, drug-free alternative to traditional anti-nausea medications. You can purchase Sea-Bands on Amazon or at most drugstores.

If you need something a bit stronger than Sea-Bands (or to use in conjunction with them), Dramamine remains a tried-and-true solution for both preventing and treating sea sickness. Choose the Less Drowsy formula to avoid getting sleepy, and consider the chewable tablets (dye-free) if traveling with kids who are prone to queasiness. Many travelers like Bonine as a remedy for sea sickness as well.

Mix-and-match clothing

Pack a variety of mix-and-match items, also known as a capsule wardrobe, for your cruise. To do this, choose a base color – black or navy blue – for your wardrobe. Next, pack plain, neutral-colored items, then add a few patterned items to the mix. Remember to include a variety of styles (T-shirts, long-sleeved shirts, pants, shorts, dresses, rompers and jumpsuits) and also consider reversible clothing and outfits that can easily transition from day to night.

Sports jacket or blazer

Adam Coulter, executive editor of Cruise Critic UK & Australia, recommends packing a sports jacket or blazer. "While cruise lines are getting more casual, what happens if you get that last-minute invite to meet the captain, or there's a meet and mingle where you want to look put together? A jacket will always elevate your elegance (even if you're wearing a T-shirt underneath)," he says. If you're in need of a travel blazer, Bluffworks has some well-rated options; the Gramercy , in particular, gets great reviews.

Themed party attire

Some cruise lines host themed voyages or parties on select nights where passengers can dress up to participate in the fun. You'll want to review your cruise itinerary before you go so you're prepared for the festivities. Bring your buccaneer gear if you're sailing aboard Disney Cruise Line; ships host fun events like Pirate Nights, pirate-themed dinners and a "Pirates in the Caribbean" show. On "The Love Boat"-themed cruises offered by Princess Cruises , pack your platform boots, glittery dresses, bell-bottom pants and halter tops for the line's 1970s-inspired disco party on the deck. No matter the theme, you can't go wrong with a couple of captain hats .

Travel wrap

A travel wrap is a versatile accessory that's useful for any trip – even more so on a cruise ship where it can get chilly when the sea breeze picks up. Available in nearly 10 different colors, J.Crew's Oversized Cashmere Wrap is a timeless staple, albeit a bit of an investment; for something less expensive but well rated, try this off-brand pashmina shawl on Amazon .

Packable jacket

Courtesy of Patagonia

If you're cruising to a cold weather destination such as Alaska, you'll need something heavier than a travel wrap, but not so bulky that it requires additional luggage. Consider a packable jacket that folds easily and compactly; travel experts highly recommend the Patagonia Nano Puff Jacket .

Packable hat

If you're headed to the Caribbean or another warm weather destination, you'll want a beach hat to protect your scalp and face from the sun. This packable straw hat by FURTALK (available on Amazon for about $25) is a stylish women's option that features a broader brim and offers UPF 50 sun protection.

Comfortable walking shoes

Courtesy of Allbirds

Even if you never step foot off the ship, there is still plenty of walking to do between bow and stern. Closed-toe shoes or sandals with straps are safer than flimsy flip-flops when boarding a slippery tender into port (if your ship can't dock directly). Check out our recommendations for the most comfortable walking shoes , which include the popular Allbirds Wool Runners and the ECCO Yucatan Sandals .

Water shoes

Depending on your scheduled shore excursions, you might also need a pair of water shoes. For something that's both functional and fashionable, Crocs' Classic Clogs are a good option. While not totally waterproof, the Native Jefferson is a water-friendly, versatile option.

Versatile heels

"Over the years, I've learned that the key to avoiding overpacking is to bring one neutral pair of low heels that match every single eveningwear outfit I've packed – from flowy pants to dresses," says Schildhouse, who loves her Rockport Tabitha 2-Strap Heeled Sandals . "They have a cushioned footbed and shock-absorbing heel so you can dance the night away in the club, and a 3-inch block heel with traction to keep you steady on your feet even if the ship's rocking a bit."

Reusable water bottle

A reusable water bottle is useful for filling up at water and beverage stations on your cruise ship; it's also a necessity for shore excursions.

Bathing suit

Pack a couple of swimsuits for the pools, hot tubs and any shore excursions.

Swim cover-up

Another must-have for your cruise packing list is a swimsuit cover-up or two. These are great for wearing over your bathing suit during days at sea, as well as on excursions – especially if you're going on a Caribbean cruise . Amazon sells a variety of stylish, affordable cover-ups, and you can never go wrong with a classic white button-down shirt .

Dry bags are useful for shore excursions where you're likely to get wet but don't want the same to be true for your phone, camera and other precious items. "I use the Outdoor Research Unisex Dry Isolation Pack   and have never had so much as a drop of moisture enter it, which is important for me – it keeps my cameras, documents and important items from getting wet," says Saunders, adding that it functions as a great everyday backpack when it's not raining.

If you need more than one dry bag, cruise expert Brittany Chrusciel recommends the Sea to Summit Lightweight Dry Bag Set . "Having these dry bags, in a variety of sizes, means I can bring all my gear along during a Zodiac cruise or snorkeling excursion without having to worry about it getting wet."

Waterproof phone case

A waterproof phone case is also essential, especially if you plan to take photos. The Hiearcool Waterproof Phone Pouches (available in a two-pack) come with a lanyard so you can both protect your phone and wear it around your neck. They are compatible with most smartphones.

"I like to bring collapsible pails, small shovels , inflatable beach toys, a floppy Frisbee or other things to entertain the kids on the beach if we're going to a private island or beach destination," says Silverstein. "If you can inflate your own inner tube, you don't need to rent a floating mat."

Beach towel

"Although cruise lines provide guests with towels to take off the ship on excursions, they are often bulky and sometimes small," explains Chrusciel. "The Surfer Towel folds up to nearly nothing, so it takes up almost no room in your suitcase and is super convenient to pack in a day bag. What's more, its quick-drying technology means that the lightweight fabric won't be soaking wet when you need to pack up for the day and head back to the ship."

Towel clips

"Even though giant plastic towel clips shaped like a flamingo are a bit cringey, they make it easy to find your spot in a sea of sun loungers," says Chrusciel. "They also solve a common cruise problem: keeping your towel securely fixed to your chair while reading or sunbathing."

Reef-safe sunscreen

Courtesy of Badger

When choosing a sunscreen, look for something that's reef-safe; not only are these sunscreens safer for the environment, but they're also better for you . The active ingredients in reef-safe sunscreens, also known as mineral sunscreens, are zinc oxide, titanium dioxide or a combination of both. Top-rated mineral sunscreen brands include Think , Badger and Raw Elements , all of which also sell lip balm with sunscreen (another essential at sea).

After-sun lotion

You'll want an extra dose of moisturizer if you've been basking in the sun. COOLA makes an after-sun body lotion that cools and hydrates the skin with aloe vera, agave and lavender oil. Previous buyers rave about this lotion, noting they appreciate that the scent isn't overpowering.

A good book

Sea days are the perfect time to kick back and relax with a book you've been meaning to read. Find an oceanfront lounge chair in a shaded area on the pool deck, or grab a cup of tea and settle into a quiet nook indoors. There's no need to pack more than one book, however, as many cruise ships have libraries.

What not to pack for a cruise

Power strip.

Many cruise lines do not permit power strips as they present a fire hazard, while others allow them as long as they are non-surge-protected. Instead of a power strip, purchase a portable charger such as this highly rated one by Anker , which can power up multiple devices at once. This can be especially useful for shore excursions. When packing for your cruise, also think about your luggage: If it has an included charging port, you may not even need to purchase an additional charging block.

Weapons and restraints

Firearms, handcuffs and the like are not permitted on cruise ships. This rule also includes toy guns on most cruise lines.

While most major cruise lines allow guests to pack a limited amount of wine or Champagne per person, they do not permit hard liquor. Of course, those of age can purchase cocktails at any of the bars on board.

Household appliances

Irons and steamers are not permitted on cruise ships, which is why the aforementioned garment bags, wrinkle release spray and packing cubes are recommended for keeping clothing tidy and neat. Coffee makers and mug warmers are also prohibited.

While you can technically bring you own, it's not necessary as hairdryers are available in every bathroom on most ships.

CBD and marijuana

CBD that's derived from hemp and contains 0.3% THC or less is legal at a federal level. However, each state interprets and enforces this law differently; for example, many states require a prescription for it. Due to the ambiguity of the laws, most cruise lines continue to ban CBD in any form.

Marijuana remains illegal under U.S. federal law, which means you cannot bring it on a cruise ship – even if you're legally able to purchase it in your home state for recreational or medical use.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

For the U.S. News Cruise Packing List, travel writers Gwen Pratesi and Amanda Norcross tapped leading industry experts for their cruise essentials. They regularly update this checklist with new and useful items to pack.

You might also be interested in:

• The Best Cruise Lines
• The Best Adults-Only Cruises
• The Best All-Inclusive Cruises

Vacation Ideas for Every Traveler

Tags: Travel , Cruises , Travel Gear

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