Packing for Europe requires a slightly different approach from beach travel — you'll likely walk a lot, visit churches and museums with dress codes, and navigate varied weather. Here's what to pack.
Clothes
- Layers — European weather shifts, especially in spring and autumn.
- Comfortable, broken-in walking shoes (cobblestones are brutal on new shoes).
- A versatile jacket or light rain layer.
- Smart-casual outfits for nice restaurants and churches (covered shoulders, knees).
- Lightweight fabrics that can be rinsed and dried overnight.
Documents & Money
- Passport (with 6 months validity beyond your return date).
- Travel insurance documentation.
- Accommodation and transport confirmations (offline copies).
- Cards with no foreign transaction fees; a small amount of local cash.
Tech & Connectivity
- A travel eSIM for seamless data across multiple European countries.
- Universal plug adapter (Type C/E/F covers most of Europe; Type G for the UK).
- Portable power bank.
- Camera or a phone with good optics.
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Toiletries & Health
- All liquids in containers of 100ml or less for carry-on.
- Sunscreen and insect repellent in summer.
- Any prescription medication with a copy of the prescription.
- A basic travel first-aid kit.
Frequently Asked Questions
For trips of up to two weeks, many experienced travelers manage with carry-on only by packing light, versatile clothes and using hotel laundry or laundromats. Carry-on only speeds up airports enormously, and European budget airlines can charge heavily for checked bags.