How to Pack Like an Experienced Traveler For Europe
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Packing for a European adventure can be equal parts exciting and overwhelming. Knowing what to bring and how much to pack depends on where you’re visiting, the time of year you’re going to be traveling, and activities you have planned. This packing information will help make sure you’re prepared for any situation while still traveling light.
Before you start packing for your European adventure: Start With a Checklist.
Before you start packing for Europe, create a suitcase checklist of everything you need before you go. This will help make sure you don’t forget any essential items and can also help keep your luggage organized. Be sure to include even the basics such as clothing, toiletries, and an extra pair of shoes in your checklist. (I literally can not even tell you how many times I have forgotten a toothbrush…) Don’t forget to check the weather for your destinations and be aware that some popular tourist attractions in Europe do have a dress code (like St Peter’s Basilica in Rome).
Italy travel photography
Pack light and pack in layers for your European Vacation
Layering your clothing is one of the best ways to maximize your packing space and stay comfortable during sightseeing. Pack versatile items such as a cardigan, light jackets, long-sleeved tops and t-shirts that can be easily worn over or under each other. This way, you’ll be prepared for harsh or cool weather conditions.
Packing light is so freaking important when it comes to traveling in Europe. You do not want to lug a 50 pound suitcase up the stairs of your hotel (spoiler alert - most hotels don’t have elevators). Even if you “are pretty sure” you might wear this one outfit, SKIP IT. Only pack what you are sure you’re going to wear. Let’s be honest - you’re going to be shopping while you’re there anyway! So make sure you leave plenty of space in your baggage for shopping.
I personally try to pack staple items (check out my staple clothing list on amazon) that way everything that is on the packing list will be able to mix and match anything I packed for my european adventure AND look chic af while abroad.
When it comes to packing shoes - it’s best to go as light as you can. Shoes take up a lot of weight AND space, so it’s best to limit the shoes. I typically pack three pairs of shoes - boots OR sandals (depending on the season I am traveling in), sneakers, flats (or something a little bit dressier). Whichever pair of shoes is going to be the bulkiest is what I will fly in, that way I have plenty of space in my bag.
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Choose the Right Luggage for Easy Transport in Europe.
Choosing the right luggage is SO IMPORTANT for comfortable and stress-free travel. For a European getaway, I would try to avoid the huge suitcases with wheels if you can - almost everywhere in Europe are cobblestone streets! If you’re traveling at all by train you will also have to lift up a very heavy suitcase into the luggage compartments and TRUST me when I say it makes you stand out in a crowd.
Check out these cute and travel friendly backpacks for your European adventure!
In my luggage, I personally like to keep my clothing really organized and I use packing cubes to do that. (I even go so far as to label my packing cubes so I know the outfits that are in each one.) These compression packing cubes allow you to have more space in your bag while keeping the same amount of clothing.
If you can’t avoid a suitcase, I highly recommend opting for the smallest suitcase that you have, make sure that the wheels roll in any direction, and it is a hard-sided suitcase. You will be lifting this suitcase in and out of trains, dragging it down streets, getting in and out of cabs etc. Here are a few smaller suitcases that would be perfect for a trip to Europe.
PRO TIP: skip the neck pillow for the plane and buy THIS instead. This neck pillow doubles as a sneaky extra bag.
Last but not least: extra things and tidbits
Make a list of all your travel accessories! Phone charges, adapters, steamers, blow dryers etc. When you’re traveling, you tend to forget where you put things and when you used them last, so it helps to keep a running list on your phone so you know exactly what needs to be in your bag when you are making the trip back home.
PRO TIPS FOR PACKING LIKE AN EXPERIENCED TRAVELER:
Have a small extra bag incase you buy too many souvenirs while you’re traveling
DITCH the bulky shampoo and conditioner bottles and go for a toiletries kit and shampoo bars
Remember - Don't let packing overwhelm you on your next trip to Europe! Traveling abroad is a life changing experience and will fill your soul with excitement. Don’t forget to grab your free packing guide HERE!
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Click here if you’re looking for a little bit of extra reading on packing like a pro :)
https://theworldpursuit.com/what-to-wear-in-italy/
https://fooddrinkdestinations.com/what-to-pack-for-italy-packing-list/
https://www.eaglecreek.com/blogs/articles/what-pack-europe-5-step-system