If you’ve been to Europe or you’re going for the first time, I’m sharing my ultimate European packing list full of everything you should pack and bring with you to have a smooth trip.
Whether you’re strolling the streets of Paris, sipping wine in Tuscany, or going for a hike in Switzerland, it can be overwhelming knowing what exactly you should bring, regardless of which country you plan to visit. As someone who loves to travel around Europe and has even recently moved to Europe from the USA, I’m sharing everything I think you need to bring with you when you visit! So, let’s dive in!
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links, which means if you choose to use our links we may receive a small commission.
Travel Essentials
- Passport (+ copies)
- Passport holder
- Travel insurance info
- Credit/debit cards
- Universal travel plug adapter
- Phone + charger
- Power bank
- Headphones
- Reusable water bottle
- Travel purse or small backpack
- Sunglasses
- Small lock (for hostels or luggage)
- Pen (for customs forms)
Clothing (adjust based on season + trip length)
- 2–3 pairs of pants (mix of jeans, trousers, or leggings)
- 1 pair of shorts or a skirt (if you’re visiting a warmer climate)
- 3–5 tops (a mix of tees, tanks, and a nice blouse/shirt)
- 1–2 dresses (optional, but great for dinners or photos)
- 1 light sweater or cardigan
- 1 warm layer (fleece, puffer jacket, or coat depending on the season)
- 1 rain jacket or windbreaker
- Undergarments & socks (enough for the length of your trip)
- Sleepwear
- Swimsuit (even if you’re not hitting the beach, spas or hotels might have pools)
- Scarf (great for layering or entering churches)
- Lightweight scarf/sarong for covering shoulders if needed
- Hat (for sun or warmth)
Shoes
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Sandals or flats (for warm days or evenings out)
- Optional: ankle boots or nicer shoes (for dinners or colder weather)
Toiletries
- Toothbrush + toothpaste
- Travel-size shampoo, conditioner, body wash
- Deodorant
- Razor
- Hairbrush
- Hair ties
- Makeup
- SPF
- Lip balm
- Travel tissues
- Hand sanitizer
- Feminine hygiene products
- Medications + small first aid kit (painkillers, bandaids, etc.)
Extras
- Packing cubes or compression bags
- Foldable tote bag (for groceries or extra items)
- Travel-size laundry detergent or laundry sheets
- Travel journal
- E-reader or book
- Snacks for travel days or to keep in your hotel
Packing Tips
Pack layers
Europe’s weather can change quickly, even during the summer. Packing layers help ensure that you are prepared for whatever type of weather you’ll have on your trip!
Bring Neutral Colors
Bring more neutral clothes that you can easily mix and match to create multiple outfits. This will also help you save some room in your suitcase so you can re-wear different outfits!
Check the Dress Code
Europe has no shortage of churches, religious sites, and nicer restaurants that you’ll likely want to visit. For example, most churches ask that your shoulders be covered and shorts a bit longer. So make sure to double-check the dress code and that you bring clothes so that you are dressed appropriately when visiting these sites.
Leave Space in Your Suitcase
It can be easy to fill up your entire suitcase with things you might need just in case or outfits you might wear but aren’t sure. However, make sure you leave space in your suitcase so you can bring home souvenirs you find while on your vacation!
Wrapping Up
Getting ready for a trip to Europe should be fun and exciting. However, packing for the trip can be stressful and overwhelming. I used to always leave packing until the very last minute and then get even more stressed that I didn’t know what to pack and that I was limited on time. So, if this is how you feel, following this list on what to pack helps eliminate the overwhelm and stress that comes with packing for a big trip!
Happy travels!
Check out my other articles:
Essentials You Need For a Long Flight
13 Airport Hacks That Will Change Your Life
24 Things I Wish I Knew Before Traveling to Europe for the First Time
Pin this to come back to later!
