Packing for a trip can be stressful, especially if it’s your first international trip or a place you have not been. Enter: my European packing list to help make things a little easier! I am covering all the items you don’t want to forget, why you need them, what the weather’s like in Europe and how to pack in only a carry-on suitcase.
As a luxury travel blogger, I have traveled all across Europe including Greece, Denmark, Paris, Switzerland, Italy, and more! I’ve been to Europe in many different seasons so I’ve got plenty of advice to help you plan accordingly.
Read on to get started planning your essentials for Europe. If you need a basic, bullet pointed list so you don’t forget anything, skip to the bottom for a complete packing list for Europe.
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European Packing List
Whether you are going for a long weekend, 10 days, or several weeks, you can adapt this list to suit your needs.
Clothing
When it comes to clothing, this will be the bulk of things filling your bags. To make sure things fit in a carry-on or even a checked bag, you’ll want to be organized and plan your outfits in advance. It’s best to take neutrals and things that you can mix and match to wear more than once. Here are the main things you need:
Tops
You will want to take a few different tops. Make sure these can match with jeans, shorts, or any skirts you are taking. Neutrals, classic prints (like stripes/gingham), and a pop of color are easy items to match with almost anything. If it is summer in Europe, you will want breathable materials like linen or cotton. In the winter or fall, you can get away with thicker materials or even a chic silky top.
For females, a couple basic tops and 2-3 blouses should cover it.
For men: in Europe, you will see a lot of men in nicer t-shirts. Take a few solid t-shirts, a nice dress shirt for dinners, and a polo for more casual activities.
Bottoms
Jeans – Everyone in Europe wears jeans so be sure to take 1-2 pairs depending on the time of year. For men, I would always take jeans as they can be dressy for nice dinners.
Trousers – Ladies, you can also pack some trendy trousers like these.
Shorts – Europe can be super warm in the summer time so be sure to pack a couple pairs of shorts when out exploring.
Skirts for women – skirts are a great option, especially in warm areas since they are so breezy. They make it easy to be fashionable and comfortable.
Dresses
I really like to pack dresses for trips since they are so versatile. Often, I will wear a dress to dinner and then wear it again for exploring the next day. At night, I will dress it up with heels/jewelry and during the day, dress it down with sneakers and a jean jacket. This strategy really helps save room in my carry one. Plus, dresses are super comfortable any time of year.
Pajamas
Don’t forget to take some comfortable clothing to sleep in. I usually take 2 sets for a 10 day trip and wear the same thing for a few nights in a row. I try to do something with thin material to take up the least amount of space.
Personally, I really love Lake Pajamas nightgowns. They kind of look like a dress and that really came in handy on a recent trip when the fire alarm at the hotel went off at 3am. I was able to throw on a jean jacket, sandals, and head downstairs quickly without having to try to get decent (or look for a bra).
Workout/Lounge Clothes
I always travel on the plane in a workout set so that I am comfortable, but also so I can exercise in it later. I usually bring 2 sets and wash these as needed.
Undergarments
Hopefully, I don’t need to remind you to bring undergarments. I usually bring enough for each day of the trip and wash them at a hotel if I run out.
Shoes for Europe
Shoes take up a lot of space so you want to be efficient when deciding on what you need to pack for Europe. Make sure you pick neutral items that go with most of your outfits. This is not the time to bring a pair of shoes you’ll only wear once. 🙂
Sneakers/Tennis Shoes
A comfortable pair of tennis shoes is a must for traveling to Europe. You will most likely do a lot of walking so get a good pair and break them in ahead of time. The last thing you want are blisters!
I like to do white sneakers since they go with jeans, dresses, etc. These are my absolute favorites and I have a whole post about white sneakers.
I also bring a pair of tennis shoes for exercising. I wear those on the plane since they take up the most space shoe-wise.
Sandals
In the summertime, you will definitely need a pair of sandals for the pool and beach. Bonus if you find a pair that can go between the beach and dinners.
Wedges/Espadrilles for Women
If you are in a bigger city like Paris, definitely take a pair of heels/wedges for dinner at trendy restaurants. Heels will really help dress up a casual dress or set.
Accessories
Finally, in the outfit department, there are a few accessories that will really go a long way.
Sweater/Cardigan
I recommend taking a sweater or cardigan that you can wear on the plane or a cooler evening. You never know what the weather may be.
Light Jacket
If it is fall or spring, you will definitely want a light jacket to pair with your outfits. I love a jean jacket to go with easy dresses.
Raincoat
I would probably skip a raincoast most places, but if you are visiting Denmark or the UK, probably best to have a raincoat. In Copenhagen, it can rain out of nowhere so it’s essential to have one there.
Jewelry
Simple, elegant pieces of jewelry are really all you need. Go for a gold chain necklace, a pair of studs, and a pair of bigger earrings like hoops that you can wear from day to night.
Hats
In the summer, the sun can be hot so be sure to pack your SPF and a sun hat to protect yourself along the coast.
Sunglasses
You absolutely need sunglasses when out and about in a new city. In Europe go for something classic and timeless. I have a pair of Ray-Ban aviators that I’ve worn forever or suggest something with black frames and lenses. Here are some ideas!
Travel Documents + Money
The most important items you need for any overseas trip!
Passport
You obviously will need a passport to travel internationally. Many countries require 6 months validity so ensure that it does not expire any time soon. Also, good practice to check the country’s requirements. If you need to apply for or renew yours, be sure to do so several months in advance.
Travel Insurance
I personally never used trip insurance until the pandemic when most destinations were requiring it. Thankfully I never had to use it throughout the 4 big trips I took. My most recent trip in August of 2022 was a bit different. We did not get trip insurance and of course, this was when we had to deal with a canceled flight. I recommend having it right now with all of the delays, cancellations, and even lost luggage problems.
Itinerary
Be sure to take your itinerary so you remember any important reservations or activities you have booked. I like to use the TripIt App since it lives on my phone and works without cellular or wifi! You can share it with fellow travelers or people at home so they know your plans in case anything happens.
Euros
You do not need much, but it’s always nice to arrive with a few euros in case you need them for a taxi. Most places have uber, but not a more remote destination like a small Greek Island. You can get them at a bank ahead of time or have your hotel exchange some dollars for you. We always bring a little currency home with us so that we can take it with us next time.
Electronics
European Adapter
Plan to take at least 2 European adapters. You can buy them on Amazon and any kind will do. They don’t need to be expensive. I like to have one for my phone and another for my curling iron.
Noise Canceling Headphones
Noise canceling headphones are a must on an international flight. You will likely have them on whether listening to music or watching a movie so you need something comfortable for a long period of time. Airpods inside of your ear will not cut it.
You should also get one of these bluetooth adapters so you can actually use the bluetooth on your headphones instead of the cord.
Kindle
I love the feel of a real book, but a kindle makes more sense traveling. It doesn’t take up much space and you can load several books. Even better, if you finish all of your books you can always load a new one.
Travel Sound Machine
Not totally necessary, but a travel sized sound machine really helps me sleep in a new place and fight jet lag. Sometimes a hotel room can be really noisy or even too quiet.
Chargers for phone, kindle, etc.
Don’t forget your chargers for iphone, kindle, headphones, and anything you may need. I like to have an extra long phone charger since you never know how far away you have to plug things in.
Camera, Drone, Accessories
And, definitely be sure to pack your camera. I actually only use my iphone 13 to take photos on trips. But, I do take a drone, small tripod, and bluetooth remote!
Apple Air Tags
Apple Air Tags are great to throw in your checked luggage. They track right along in find my friends so you can always know where your bag is – even when the airline does not!
I actually had my luggage left behind recently and was able to see that it was not on the plane as we were taking off. It was so helpful to already know that it didn’t make it so that I wasn’t stuck waiting around at baggage claim.
Misc. European Packing List
Toiletries
You will want to get 3oz travel sizes for all of your liquid toiletries. Most airlines allow you to carry on one quart sized ziploc bag with however many 3oz containers you can fit inside. You are allowed full size bottles in your checked bag, but will want to make sure those don’t leak.
I usually get away with my makeup bag and the few liquids that are in it!
Medications/Vitamins
Even on vacation, you still want to continue to watch your health. Take any medications you may need in their clearly marked containers.
Laundry Detergent + Wrinkle Releaser
Next, I like to pack a travel size laundry detergent in case I need to wash anything in my hotel sink. It is also helpful to bring a wrinkle release spray so you don’t have to use a hotel iron if you can help it.
Stain Remover
Always nice to have a stain remover like a tide stick on hand! Be sure to add one to your European packing list especially if you have kids!!
Snacks
Lastly, I never leave home without snacks. There is a specific protein bar I really love so I always bring several with me in case I need something filling on the go.
Things I leave at home
Hair dryer
I typically leave my hair dryer at home as most hotels have them. Check with your accommodation first to make sure. If for any reason they don’t, you can figure it out and buy one there.
Intense skin care
I do not take all of my intense skin care items. For instance, I leave my vitamin c serum at home because I will be okay skipping this for a few days. I also would be upset if something so expensive weren’t allowed to go with me through security.
How to Pack in Carry On
The best way to fit everything in carry on begins with your bags. I’m sharing a luggage guide below so be sure to check that out.
You are typically allowed one bag and one personal item to carry on the plane. I always take a carry on size rolling suitcase and a north face bookbag from college as my personal item. The key is really maximizing that personal item so you can take as much as possible. The book bag may not be trendy, however, it is spacious and always fits under the seat in front of me too.
Next, you really need to have a plan for outfits. I write out each day with the typical weather and any activities we will be doing. Then, I think about outfits I want to wear and try to see where I can rewear things.
After I have my list, I do a test run and pack everything in my rolling suitcase using packing cubes. I will try rolling my clothes and folding them to see what works best. This way you will not be stressed the day of your trip trying to make it all fit – you will know what you are working with and already be packed.
In the day or two before my trip, I realize there are probably things I can take out and I remove those. You will know the 10 day weather forecast by then so that usually helps!
Keep in mind, it’s Europe. Not the middle of nowhere. If you need or forget something, you can always buy it there.
Luggage Guide for European Packing List
A big part of traveling is the bags! You can’t get anywhere without a few good ones. Here is everything you will need for your European packing list.
- Carry On Suitcase – one carry-on suitcase under the following dimensions: 22x14x19. Checkout my Monos carry-on luggage review and hybrid carry-on review to see why it’s my favorite!
- Checked Bag – allowed one checked bag under 50lbs. A lightweight option is crucial. You can take more than this, but it requires more fees. My big checked bag is from Beis and it has been great.
- Purse/Satchel – you will want a good purse or two that work from day to night. I love a crossbody purse because it is super easy to carry around and it’s always right at my side where someone can’t pickpocket me easily. Also loving the belt bag trend right now.
- Backpack – I use a large backpack as my personal item to carry on the plane. You can also take a smaller trendy one to use for sightseeing.
- Packing Cubes – i love packing cubes for keeping my suitcase organized!
- Clear Toiletry Bag – get one or two good toiletry bags to keep all of your makeup and bath products in. I love these clear ones that are TSA approved.
- Travel Size Jewelry Case – one of the best investments to keep your jewelry organized and free from tangles!
Complete European Packing List
Depending on your destination and time of year, here is a check list for everything you should need for a 10 day trip to Europe.
- 3-4 Tops
- 2-3 Pants/Jeans
- 4 Dresses/Skirts for Women
- 2 Pajamas
- 2 Workout/Lounge Clothes
- 10 Undergarments
- 1-2 Sneakers/Tennis Shoes + socks
- 1 Sandals
- 1 Wedges/Espadrilles for Women
- 1 Sweater/Cardigan
- 1 Light Jacket
- Heavier coat for winter
- Raincoat
- Swimwear (several depending on destination)
- Jewelry
- Hats
- Sunglasses
- Reef safe sunscreen
- Passport
- Travel Insurance
- Itinerary
- Euros
- European Adapter
- Noise Canceling Headphones
- Kindle
- Travel Sound Machine
- Charges for phone, kindle, etc.
- Camera, tripod
- Toiletries
- Medications/Vitamins
- Laundry Detergent
- Stain Remover – Tide Stick
- Travel jewelry case
European packing list FAQ
Weather in Europe?
The weather throughout Europe is not all that different to parts of the USA. They experience the same seasons at the same time of year. Greece can be hot in the summer, but places like Denmark or Switzerland are much more moderate. Be sure to check your specific destination’s weather before traveling. I look at the monthly calendar on weather.com as it shows historical averages.
Is it safe to travel to Europe right now?
Yes, it is safe to travel to Europe right now.
How to pack light and fashionable for Europe?
My number one tip for packing light, but still fashionable, is super simple. Wear lots of DRESSES! You can do flowy maxis, cute minis, or even a knit form fitted midi.
How do Europeans Dress?
You do not need to get a whole new wardrobe to try to “not look like a tourist”. Spoiler alert: they can spot you a mile away. Europeans dress in so many different ways just like everyone else. It depends where you are going, but here’s a few rules. For men, jeans and tailored t-shirts should work in most places – solids, no logos. For ladies, anything from dresses to trendy pants to jeans will be perfect. Opt for neutral colors and classic prints (gingham, floral, striped).
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