europe trip packing list summer

The Ultimate Packing List for Europe in Summer

Figuring out what to pack for Europe is a something I have had to do a lot.  I’ve spent many summers in Europe so I have plenty of experience packing for Europe over the years.  For those of you traveling to Europe this summer and not sure what to wear or what to pack, I have put together the  ultimate packing list for Europe in summer .

Packing List for Europe in the Summer

Europe Packing List Summer – Travel Essentials for Europe

• European Travel Adaptor  – European travel adaptor  for your electronics

• External Battery  –   External battery  to recharge your phone, camera or other electronics (this is one of my  travel essential items  for any trip)

• Comfortable walking shoes  – You will be doing a lot of walking in Europe so comfortable walking shoes are a must for sightseeing. You might want to bring either casual sandals or comfortable flats .

• Camera/photography gear  – Europe is very photogenic so don’t forget to bring your camera!  If you are traveling alone or as a couple, you might want to bring a selfie stick/portable tripod  to take photos of yourself. Don’t forget to bring an extra memory card .

•  Scarf  –  A  lightweight scarf  will keep you warm on chilly summer nights or places with too much air-conditioning.  A scarf is also useful when visiting churches or cathedrals which require women to cover their shoulders.

• Lightweight pants and/or long dress/skirt for women – If you are going to be visiting churches, I recommend women bring at least one pair of light pants or a dress that covers the knees.

• Sunglasses  – Most countries in Europe (especially Southern Europe) are very sunny in the summer so sunglasses are a must!

• Reusable water bottle  –  A reuseable water bottle is a good way to save money on bottled water and also eco-friendly. I use  this insulated water bottle  because it keeps my water cool for hours.

• Hat – If you are going to spend a lot of time outdoors especially in the middle of the day, don’t forget to bring a hat for sun protection.  I recommend Coolibar hats  because they have excellent sun protection.

What to Wear in Europe – Clothes and Shoes

Europeans dress a bit nicer than most North Americans so I don’t recommend walking around in sweatpants or sneakers and shorts.  I recommend dressing fashionable especially in larger cities so you can try to blend in with the locals.

The temperature in Southern Europe during the summer can get very hot so you will need lightweight clothes.  The temperature in Northern Europe is more moderate or even cool and rainy so you will need long sleeve shirts, pants, an umbrella and a jacket or rain jacket.  I recommend checking weatherbase.com to look up the average temperature and rainfall to get an idea what the weather will be like when you are visiting.

• Dresses and skirts   – Bring at least 2-3 dresses/skirts.  A basic black dress is a must and can be worn from day to night.  Maxi dresses are also cute and comfortable for summer.

• Lightweight pants   –  Men should bring at least 2 pairs of lightweight pants for sightseeing and to wear at restaurants or bars.  Women might want to pack a pair of lightweight or linen pants as well. Avoid wearing jeans in the summer in Southern Europe as they will make you feel too hot!

• Shirts/tops  –  I recommend men bring at least 4 short sleeve shirts.  Women can get away with fewer tops if they pack more dresses.

• Sweater   – Pack at least 1 long sleeve sweater for chilly summer nights and air-conditioned places.

• Jacket   – Bring a light jacket.  Some parts of Europe (especially Northern Europe) might be cool in the summer even in the daytime.

• Comfortable walking shoes  – A must for sightseeing. Depending on your outfit you might want either casual sandals or comfortable flats or fashionable sneakers.

• Dressier sandals/cute flats/loafers   – Bring a dressier pair of sandals or cute flats that can be worn for dinner or drinks.

• Platform shoes for women  – Some places of Europe have cobblestone streets so I recommend women avoid high thin heels.  If you need some height, I recommend platform shoes.

• Shorts  – Personally I would avoid shorts in Europe unless visiting beach towns or resort areas.  If visiting mostly cities, I recommend wearing lightweight pants or skirts instead of shorts.

• Flip-flops  –  I recommend wearing cute and comfortable sandals when walking around a European city or town but you might want to bring a pair of flip flops to  wear at the beach or at hostels and hotels.   Havaianas flip flops are my favorite because they have great traction and don’t slip when walking on wet surfaces.

• Underwear, socks and bras  –  Depending on how long you are visiting Europe and how often you will do laundry, bring at least 5 pairs of underwear, 3 pairs of socks and 2 bras.  If you are checking luggage, pack at least 1 of each in your  carry on bag  in case your checked luggage is lost or delayed. ExOfficio underwear is great for travel because it is breathable, quick-drying fabric and odor-resistant.

Europe Packing List – Other Things to Pack for Europe

• Passport • Cash, credit cards, ATM cards (make sure your credit card does not charge a foreign transaction fee) • Drivers license and international drivers license if planning on driving • COVID vaccine card and/or negative COVID test (if required) • Glasses, contacts, contact lens solution • Medication and prescriptions • Face Masks – Masks may be required at your destination so pack a few face masks •  Antibacterial wipes  or  hand sanitizer • Electronics (smartphone, computer, tablet,  kindle , cords, cameras, memory cards) • Toothbrush, toothpaste and floss • Toiletries (makeup, lotion, deodorant, tissues, comb/brush, feminine products, q-tips, razor, shampoo/conditioner/soap) • Noise cancelling headphones  or  earplugs and  eye mask • Compression socks  to prevent DVT on long flights  and drives •  Body wipes  to wipe off sweat • First aid kit (band aids, pain reliever, allergy medicine, anti-nausea medicine, antacid tablets, charcoal tablets ) • Lip balm with UV protection – Don’t forget to protect your lips! Most people apply sunscreen but they overlook sun protection for their lips • Sunscreen  – Don’t forget to bring sunscreen to protect you from the sun. Sunscreen is easy to find in Europe so it is not the end of the world if you forget to pack it. • Insect repellent • Travel umbrella and/or rain jacket – Some parts of Europe can be rainy even in the summer • Bandana – A bandana is so versatile, you can use it to wipe off sweat or use as a scarf or mask • Beach bag – For carrying your beach essentials if planning some time at the beach or pool. • Bathing suits/sarong/kaftan  – If planning to hit the beach or pool. • Universal waterproof phone case  – Keep smartphones dry with this  waterproof case  when hanging out at the beach. • A  quick drying travel towel for the beach or if you are staying at a hostel that does not provide towels • Packing cubes • Day bag, tote or purse for sightseeing • TSA approved locks • Notebook and pen

These are my travel essentials for a summer in Europe. Is there anything else I should add to my Europe packing list ?

Need some travel inspiration for your trip to Europe? Check these articles about the best European travel destinations:

• Best Road Trips in Europe You Need to Visit
• Most Beautiful Cities in Europe You Need to Visit
• Underrated Cities in Europe
• Beautiful Towns in Europe Straight Out of a Fairytale
• Europe Bucket List: 100+ Epic Things to Do in Europe

Related Posts

savvyglobetrotter

Looks like a good thorough list. Very accurate in my experience. I’m a huge fan of noise-canceling headphones as well! 🙂 And a scarf is always great, like you said.

I am one of those last minute before leaving to travel packers. and also miss stuff, I needed a check list and printed this post out, thank you Ma’am.

Really useful list, I need to save it, I always forgot something while I’m packing. Thanks!

I just did a packing list post myself on my blog. Loved reading yours, many of things are same/similar to my list 🙂 I have been thinking of using packing cubes, what do you think about it? Good idea? or Nah…

This is a really extensive packing list, you have really covered yourself here.

Love all these tips for packing for a trip to Europe during the summer. As someone who lives in Europe (until Brexit comes in at least LOL), I’d definitely recommend all of these. Just a note, reusable water bottles can be used in most places in the UK as our tap water is safe. Though if you’re hitting countries like Greece or Cyprus around the Med then I’d advise non-Europeans to be careful with tap water, as it may not agree with you and isn’t always the safest. Happy travels! X

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The Ultimate Packing List for Europe: Summer Edition

Beautiful beaches, fashionable cities, epic national parks, blooming flowers: there’s a lot to love about summer in Europe, but when it comes to planning a packing list for Europe, summer weather can make things a little difficult!

The good news? No bulky coats required.

The bad news? Scorching weather, multiple countries with different standards of dress, and an itinerary that likely combines outdoor highlights (beaches, boat rides, chasing waterfalls) with city lights (cooling off in museums, eating gelato on the streets every afternoon) can mean that a summer packing list for Europe can be a bit tricky to put together.

After years spent traveling through Europe in all seasons, we’ve become quite accustomed to packing our belongings up over and over again.

We’ve pulled together years’ worth of travel knowledge to create this packing list for Europe: summer travel is bound to be even more relaxing with these tips!

Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more detail.

Table of Contents

The Absolute Essentials for Visiting Europe in Summer

Travel gear you should definitely pack for summer in europe, packing list for europe: summer wardrobe for women, packing list for europe: summer wardrobe for men, other travel gear for your packing list for europe in summer.

Passport — If you’re traveling internationally, your passport is an absolute must: there’s no point in packing for Europe in summer without it!

Travel Insurance — We don’t ever suggest traveling without travel insurance–anything can happen, and an epic summer trip to Europe is definitely a case of better safe than sorry. We use and recommend Safety Wing for trips to Europe.

Visa (If Needed)  — Though 26 countries in Europe are part of the Schengen Zone that allows many nationalities (including US citizens, Canadians, and Australians) to enter and travel freely between their countries for 90 days for tourism, that still leaves around half of Europe’s countries that are  not  part of this agreement.

Regardless of where you are from, always double-check entrance requirements before showing up at the airport to fly to any European country (or any country at all that isn’t your own, for that matter).

Money — We recommend bringing two credit cards (one to use, and one to keep as a backup), and two debit cards. Ideally, bring cards with no foreign transaction fees. We’ve never felt it necessary to obtain currency before arriving (we just withdraw from an ATM when we get there), but you can purchase most currencies in your home country if it makes you feel more comfortable.

Keep in mind that not all countries in Europe are on the Euro, so be sure to double-check what currency you’ll need based on your itinerary!

International Driving Permit — If you are visiting Europe from outside the EU and plan to rent a car, you may need an International Driving Permit to do so! Italy in particular is well-known for enforcing this requirement. Be sure to check the rental requirements in any country that you plan to drive in before you arrive!

Camera — We recently upgraded to our Sony a7R III and absolutely adore it, but whatever camera you’re comfortable with works–just make sure you have something with you to preserve your memories! 

Comfortable Day Bag  — We currently use  Pacsafe’s sleek anti-theft backpack  and love it, but if you don’t want to shell out the cash for this trip, that’s totally understandable. Just aim for something comfortable to wear, not flashy, and medium-sized–we used a  Northface Jester backpack  for years and loved it as well.

Sunglasses — You’ll be glad you put these on your summer packing list for Europe–though of course, if you forget them (or lose them during your trip like I’ve definitely done more than once), it’s extremely easy to pick up a pair while traveling just about anywhere else in Europe.

Student ID — If you’re a student, you’ll be entitled to lots of discounts on museums and attractions throughout Europe. Be sure to add it to your packing list for Europe.

Cell Phone — We spent more than a year traveling without working cell phones, just relying on wifi… and while that’s completely fine, we would never go back.

Consider purchasing an international plan for your cell phone (most carriers offer them), or, if you have an unlocked phone, you can just by a local SIM card once you land in Europe.

While you’ll likely want to structure your wardrobe for your packing list for Europe in summer slightly differently based on where exactly you’re going (for example, you’ll want to dress up a bit more on a city tour through Italy than on a sailing trip through Greece), if you’re looking for an all-purpose summer wardrobe that will sustain you through multiple European destinations, these suggestions are for you!

As full-time travelers for nearly 4 years, we are extremely well accustomed to living out of a backpack as we traipse around Europe, and these suggestions reflect my personal favorite things to wear in Europe during the summer.

I love wearing dresses in Europe in the summer! They’re easy to pack, easy to wear, look great just about anywhere you go, and manage to look pulled together while only requiring one piece of clothing. 

Dresses like this and this are generally what you’ll find me in when traveling through Europe in the summer. Be sure to bring at least one or two maxi dresses ( I love this one , for example), which fulfill the double purpose of being extremely photogenic and also allowing you to visit religious sites like churches and mosques without issue.

Rompers like this can also be a fun option if you want an all-in-one outfit that isn’t quite a dress, and so can two-piece outfits (I personally love the lemon pattern on this one , it makes me think of the Amalfi Coast!).

Bright, colorful tops are perfect for beach destinations in Europe–I love choices like this and this , and if crop tops are your style, options like this are a popular choice around the beach.

Ever heard that Europeans don’t wear shorts? In Milan or Paris, fair enough. But in Dubrovnik or Mykonos? Go for it! Beach destinations are the perfect place to break out jean shorts like these from my current favorite denim company.

In the city, skirts like this are a great idea, and light midi skirts also look beautiful. 

Bathing Suits

Depending on how many beach destinations you’re planning to visit, I’d pack 2-3 bathing suits for visiting Europe in the summer. I love choices like this and this . If you’re planning on trying out any active water activities like snorkeling or scuba diving, consider packing at least one one-piece suit , too.

The absolute most important rule when determining what shoes to put on your packing list for Europe this summer is making sure that they’re comfortable to walk in! I’ve been wearing these shoes in Europe during the summer lately and love them. Boat shoes are also a great option, and Converse are popular with backpackers and travelers along the tourist trail.

Summer in Europe can be scorching–but the air conditioning blasting inside museums, hotels, trains, and buses, will make you quickly forget it! I recommend putting one light jacket on your summer packing list for Europe for those moments! I normally pack something like this and am very comfortable.

Accessories

Sunglasses and a sunhat are musts for traveling in Europe during the summer! You can either purchase ahead of time or plan on picking them up as souvenirs–both are sold on just about every corner in Europe during the summer travel season!

T-shirts are a staple of the men’s traveling wardrobe in Europe, but opt for brightly colored new ones if you can! Shirts like this that have a bit more detail work as well. If they’re your style, light, casual button-up shirts are also an option.

During the scorching summer, you’ll find men wearing shorts similar to these just about everywhere in Europe–especially the tourists. Forgo them in favor of chinos  when visiting religious sites that have a strict dress code and in more formal cities like Paris if you can stand it, but on the coast, your shorts certainly won’t stand out.

Jeremy tends to opt for light, casual shoes like these during summer in Europe–whatever you pack, just make sure that they’re well broken in and easy to walk in for hours before adding them onto your summer packing list for Europe!

Bathing Suit

If you’re planning on hitting the beach in Europe this summer, make sure to bring one or two bathing suits along with you. Suits like this work perfectly.

Summer in Europe can be scorching–but the air conditioning blasting inside museums, hotels, trains, and buses, will make you quickly forget it! I recommend putting one light jacket on your summer packing list for Europe for those moments! Jeremy tends to pack this jacket for Europe in the summer (and most other seasons as well) and loves it.

Sunglasses and a hat are musts for traveling in Europe during the summer! You can either purchase ahead of time or plan on picking them up as souvenirs–both are sold on just about every corner in Europe during the summer travel season!

I use them on all boats and the occasional bus, and if things get really bad, take some Non-Drowsy Dramamine as well.

Trust me–you don’t want to miss out on the joys of boating around the Mediterranean due to seasickness!

Basic Medication  — Some people prefer to buy medication for basic headaches, fevers, and stomach aches as needed, but who wants to deal with language barriers when they’re sick? We’ve never regretted packing our own basic meds.

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

2 thoughts on “The Ultimate Packing List for Europe: Summer Edition”

I enjoyed reading your recommendations for traveling to Europe. I’m planning a family trip to Europe for about 7-10 days and I’d like to ask, since you have extensive travel experience across Europe, which would be the best countries/cities to visit as a first time tourists. I would appreciate your help and input. Happy and safe travels.

That’s a very hard question–a bit like “how long is a piece of string?”. Where to go in Europe depends so much on your interests, timeline, budget, where you’re traveling from, etc.

We go over several popular first-time-in-Europe itinerary ideas in this post that might give you an idea what to expect: https://www.ourescapeclause.com/2-week-europe-itinerary-trip/

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The Ultimate Europe Summer Packing List

Caroline Morse Teel

Caroline Morse Teel is the Managing Editor for SmarterTravel Media. Follow her adventures around the world on Instagram @TravelWithCaroline.

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Overpacking is the quickest way to start your European trip off on the wrong foot. Charming cobblestone streets, boutique hotels without elevators, and packed public transportation mean you don’t want to be hauling around an oversized suitcase. 

A streamlined European packing list is essential—you want to look good in all your photos in front of famous sites, blend in with local fashion, and be comfortable for miles of walking every day. 

We’ve put together the ultimate European summer packing list for smarter travelers to follow—you’ll be comfortable, stylish, and mobile (without that giant checked bag).

Summer weather in Europe can be fickle, so packing a good pair of jeans is always smart in case the temperatures drop in the evening. Mott & Bow’s Slim Boyfriend Jeans are made from a soft, lightweight twill denim fabric that’s lighter and more comfortable than regular denim. 

The white jeans help keep your outfit looking summery, and by some miracle, Mott & Bow’s jeans aren’t see-through like most white pants. 

Light Shirt/Scarf

If you’re visiting any religious/historical sites in Europe, you may be asked to cover your shoulders and knees out of respect. Keep a lightweight scarf with you so you can comply on an impromptu visit without overheating during the rest of the day.

The Ultimate Packing Checklist

Dresses are the most versatile piece of clothing you can pack for your European trip, as they can be worn with sneakers during the day or made fancier at night with heels. For hot summers, you can’t beat linen— Quince’s 100 percent European Linen Button Front Dress was practically designed for European trips.

Made from breathable and heat-regulating linen, the dress will keep you cool. The removable belt and functional buttons give you multiple looks with just one piece of clothing and best of all, the dress features pockets. 

Cozy Earth’s Coastal Comfort Mock Neck Short Sleeve Button Down is the perfect mix of casual and pulled-together. Made from a blend of tencel and linen, this top is ultra-breathable and feels significantly cooler than cotton. 

The fabric uses an enhanced weave that helps prevent pilling, so this shirt will still look brand-new after many trips.

Since they take up such minimal space, you’ll never regret packing a swimsuit . There are so many beaches, lakes, and even hotel pools to explore in Europe, you won’t want to miss any opportunity for a dip. 

If you tend to burn easily, and don’t want to be bothered frequently getting out of the water to reapply, the Eddie Bauer Long-Sleeve One Piece Swimsuit swimsuit is a great option—the floral print and zipper keep it cute, while the extra coverage gives you plenty of sun protection. 

The Best Swimsuits for Any Type of Vacation

Lightweight Pants

A lightweight pair of pants can protect you from the sun, keep you covered for historical church visits, and help you look like a local (if you choose the right ones). Ditch the heavy denim in favor of something with a bit more stretch, like Mott & Bow’s Twill Chinos

These pants have just the right of flexibility but are structured enough that they won’t get baggy halfway through your trip. The khaki color is perfect for summer, and can be dressed up or down depending on your plans for the day. 

Accessories

Crossbody Purse

The perfect purse for Europe can be worn crossbody style (which makes it harder to steal), goes with any outfit, is versatile, and is big enough to hold the essentials (but not too large, since you’ll be carrying it all day).

Quince’s Italian Leather Quilted Wallet Crossbody ticks all the boxes. Made from soft Italian leather, the purse will be right at home in Europe, and the quilted design works well from day to night. The bag can be worn as a crossbody, or you can remove the chain to use it as a clutch. 

Coin purses have fallen out of fashion in the US, but they can come in handy in Europe, where lower denominations of currency are in coins instead of bills. Don’t end up with a heavy stash of coins buried in your bag—keep your change organized and accessible in a zippered pouch . 

The 24 Best RFID Wallets to Protect You Identity

Keep the sun off of your face and your outfit looking stylish with a sun hat. These packable options from Madewell are perfect, since they can be stuffed in your bag (without getting destroyed) when you’re not wearing them. 

Refillable Water Bottle

Although tap water is safe to drink in Europe, it’s not commonly offered for free at restaurants (you’ll likely have a choice of bottled still or sparkling water instead). However, in some destinations, you may find public drinking fountains readily available. Save money (and the environment) by packing your own reusable water bottle, like this one from LARQ , which automatically cleans itself using UV technology. 

The LARQ bottle comes in both an insulated and non-insulated version, so you can choose between having a light weight to carry or having perfectly chilled beverages all day long. 

Pack a pair of sandals you can wear to the beach, hotel pool, and for short walks. Ipanema’s Trendy Sandals feature a minimalist style that will blend in anywhere. The lightweight sandals are made from PVC so they can be easily rinsed off after every wear.

You’ll spot chunky white sneakers on the feet of many stylish Europeans this summer. Join the crowd with New Balance’s classic 550 sneakers . The low top and clean silhouette go with everything from jeans to dresses, and there’s plenty of arch support and cushioning to keep you comfortable. 

The 8 Best White Sneakers for Travel

Pack no-show socks that will actually stay up if you’re going to be doing a lot of walking. These ones from Bombas have grips on the heel that help to keep them in place. 

Toiletries/Miscellaneous 

In addition to the same toiletries you’d pack for any destination (toothbrush, toothpaste, hand sanitizer, etc.) here are some important ones to remember for Europe:

Even if you’re not hitting the beach in Europe, sunscreen is still a must-pack for summer trips. Sun Bum smells good and doesn’t leave a white cast, so you’ll forget you’re wearing it.

A travel-sized pack of tissues can come in handy for more than just the sniffles (like at a public bathroom that’s run out of toilet paper.)

Medications

In some European destinations, you’ll have to visit an actual pharmacy to purchase even over-the-counter medications, and these pharmacies tend to have somewhat limited hours. 

Pack sample-size packets of medicines just in case, so you don’t have to waste time hunting down a pharmacy if you have a headache or stomachache. 

The Best Over-the-Counter Sleeping Pills for Long-Haul Flights

Electronics

Don’t forget to pack a pair of headphones for the long flight over from the United States. Skullcandy’s Push Active Earbuds are wireless but still secure (in case you plan on working out while you’re on vacation).

The earbuds are voice-controlled, so you don’t have to stop what you’re doing to change songs or take a phone call. 

Appliances in Europe run on 220 volts, while ones in America use 110 volts. Fortunately, most modern appliances (like iPhones) automatically switch voltage, so you won’t need to worry about bringing an electricity converter (but double-check your electronics before trying to use them abroad). 

However, you will need to pack an adapter in order to use standard plugs in Europe. 

Portable Charger

It’s easy to run down the battery on your phone when you’re snapping pictures and taking video to capture all the memories—and constantly using maps to figure out directions. A portable charger can revive your battery without you having to go back to the hotel or find a place to plug it in.

Biolite Charge Series Portable Charger Review

Travel Documents

As with any trip, don’t forget these important travel documents:

• Copies of passport (you can scan them to your phone or the cloud instead of carrying paper)

Although most places in Europe accept credit cards, you’re still likely to find a few cash-only destinations, so make sure you bring some cash with you.

When you are using a credit card, make sure you’re choosing one that doesn’t charge a foreign transaction fee , as those can quickly add up.

Download Our Ultimate Packing Checklist for Europe

When its time to start packing, download our editable checklist here .

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European Summer Packing List: The Ultimate Guide

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Are you going on a European summer getaway but are struggling to make your packing list?

I’ve been there! I’ve spent a lot of time in Europe in the summer, with trips ranging from a few days to a couple of months. It’s hard to know what to pack. So, I’ve combined my knowledge and experience from my trips to make the ultimate European summer packing list.

In this article, you’ll find the essentials you must pack, what men and women must bring, and a complete European summer packing list. Keep reading to get ready for a summer adventure you’ll never forget!

Last Updated: March 25, 2024

Published: January 21, 2024

Some links on this page are affiliate links , meaning I may earn a commission if you click the link or make a purchase through the link. This is at no extra cost to you. This compensation may impact how and where links are placed on this site.

✈️ Win a free 5-night stay in Aruba! Click here to enter . The giveaway ends on May 9, 2024 at 12:00AM PDT. Exponential Travels is not administering this giveaway.

Are you looking for more packing guides?

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• Barcelona Packing List
• Belize Packing List
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• Thailand Packing List
• Winter in Europe

Table of Contents

Essential Packing List For European Summer

Here’s a breakdown of what to include in your Europe packing list, with all the essentials for the summer heat.

Key items include:

• Loose-fitting , light-colored tops
•   Comfortable shorts and skirts
•   Shoes for walking (waterproof if visiting beaches)
•   Swimwear for coastal destinations
•  A broad-brimmed hat and UV-protection sunglasses
•   High-SPF sunscreen to shield your skin from intense rays

Without these items, you’ll have a rough time trying to navigate the heat in the summer. No matter what you pack, make sure these are in your bag! The next section has the complete list for packing for a summer in Europe.

Complete European Summer Packing List

Want the complete list of things to pack for a summer in Europe? No matter what cities or countries you’re visiting, here’s what you’ll want to pack:

• Lightweight clothing
•   Swimsuit
•   Sunscreen
•   Sunglasses
•  Comfortable walking shoes
•   Adapter for electrical outlets
•  Passport
•  Travel Insurance
•   Backpack
•   Camera
•   Portable charger
•   Quick-dry towel
•   Water bottle
•   Basic toiletries
•   Travel-sized laundry detergent
•   Snacks

•  Travel documents (tickets, reservations)
•  Money (cash and cards)
•   Language phrasebook (if needed)
•   Sandals
•   Hand-held fan
•   Sun dresses
•   Lightweight scarf
•   Beach towel
•   Flip-flops
•   Beach bag
•   Shorts
•   Tank tops
•   Swimsuit cover-up
•   Insect repellent
•   Portable water mister
•   Cooling gel or wipes
•   Visor or wide-brimmed hat
•   UV protection for lips
•   Water-resistant phone case
•  Travel-size face mist
•   Light rain jacket (just in case)
•   Aloe vera gel (for sunburn)
•   Water shoes (for rocky beaches)
•   Lightweight sleepwear

Gender-Specific Packing Guidelines

When curating your Europe packing list for summer, it’s crucial to consider gender-specific items.

Below are the essential clothing and accessories tailored to the needs of men and women.

1. European Summer Packing List For Men

Men’s travel attire should focus on functionality without sacrificing style.

Lightweight , breathable shirts paired with comfortable shorts or trousers offer versatility for daytime exploration and evening dining.

Swimwear is a must for coastal destinations, whereas a smart-casual blazer can elevate your look for a night out in Europe’s glamorous cities.

Don’t forget the importance of comfortable footwear, especially when treading the storied paths of historical sites.

• Lightweight , wrinkle-resistant shirts
•  Quick-dry, stylish swim trunks
•   Convertible pants for varying weather conditions and activities
•  Undergarments with good support and moisture-wicking properties
•  Sun-protective hat with a wide brim

2. European Summer Packing List For Women

Women’s packing essentials should accommodate Europe’s fluctuating temperatures and social settings.

A mix of airy dresses , skirts , and blouses will keep you cool, with cardigans or shawls to drape over your shoulders during cooler evenings or when visiting religious sites.

Quality, well-fitted undergarments are key, particularly styles that can offer support during long sightseeing days.

Pack a swimsuit for impromptu dips in the Mediterranean and a pair of stylish yet functional sandals that can take you from day to night.

• Light dresses and skirts for day-to-night versatility
•  Soft, breathable tops in neutral colors for easy matching
•  One or two pairs of comfortable, chic pants or leggings
•  Supportive and seamless undergarments
•   Sun hat or scarf for head and shoulder protection and to cover up at religious sites

Regardless of gender, modesty should be exercised when packing for a European trip. Many religious sites across the continent require covering your knees and shoulders, so include appropriate attire to respect these customs.

Extra Packing Tips For Europe

Setting off to explore the various European landscapes in the summer requires a few extra items in your luggage.

To fully enjoy your trip, consider packing these special items:

• Invest in quality, comfortable footwear that will see you through long walks through city streets to the uneven cobblestone paths of historic villages. A sturdy pair of walking shoes is indispensable.
•  Pack seasickness tablets just in case for those planning to embrace the Mediterranean lifestyle with boat trips or island-hopping. The waters can be unpredictable, and it’s better to be prepared.
•  Think about including a few interchangeable, smart-casual outfits in your luggage. Europe’s multifaceted social scene ranges from laid-back cafés to high-end dining, and versatile clothing will help you blend in.
•  Bring a lightweight, foldable bag or backpack for day trips and excursions. Whether shopping at local markets or packing a picnic, an extra bag always comes in handy.
•  Lastly, don’t forget your travel adapter . European power sockets typically require a two-prong plug (Type C, E, or F), different from those in other parts of the world.

By adding these items to your packing list, you’ll be well-equipped to explore the vibrant cities and the most off-the-beaten-path destinations Europe has to offer.

Enjoy Your Summer In Europe!

As you finalize your European summer packing list, ensure you have all the essentials in this guide.

And, one last tip: leave some extra room in your suitcase for souvenirs, clothing, and whatever else you want to buy on your adventures throughout Europe.

Planning your trip to Europe? Here are some of the best travel planning resources I use for every trip:

• Top travel credit cards
• SafetyWing for travel insurance
• Booking.com for a huge variety of hotels, vacation rentals, flights, and more
• HostelWorld for the best hostels around the world
• Vrbo for vacation homes and rentals
• FareDrop and Going for cheap flight alerts
• Skyscanner for the cheapest flights
• Amazon for travel and packing must-haves
• Priority Pass for airport lounge access
• TripAdvisor for the top hotels around the world

Click for the top hotel deals!

European Summer Packing List FAQs

What essentials should i include in my europe packing list for summer.

Pack lightweight and breathable clothing such as cotton shirts, shorts, and dresses for your summer trip to Europe. Sun protection items like sunscreen , sunglasses , and a wide-brimmed hat are also crucial. Comfortable walking shoes for exploring cities and a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated are must-haves.

How Do I Pack For Both City Sightseeing And Outdoor Adventures In Europe?

To be prepared for urban exploration and outdoor activities, include versatile clothing that can transition well between different settings, such as sleek, durable travel pants and a stylish but comfortable pair of shoes . Also, pack a lightweight backpack or daypack for excursions and a compact travel umbrella or raincoat for unpredictable weather.

Is There Anything Specific I Should Pack For Visiting Religious Sites In Europe During The Summer?

When visiting religious sites in Europe, it’s important to pack modest clothing that covers your shoulders and knees. Modest clothing includes lightweight scarves or shawls to drape over your shoulders and longer skirts or trousers . These respectful attire choices are essential for entering many churches and sacred spaces.

How Can I Pack For Varying Temperatures If I’m Traveling To Multiple European Countries?

Packing for varying temperatures across different European countries involves layering. Include a range of clothing such as tank tops , long-sleeved shirts , and a versatile jacket or sweater . A lightweight , packable , waterproof jacket is also recommended for sudden changes in weather and cool nights, regardless of the season.

Can I Wear Shorts In Europe, Or Are They Considered Too Casual?

Shorts are widely accepted as casual wear in many parts of Europe during the summer; however, opting for a more tailored or smart-casual style rather than athletic shorts is advisable. For dining out or visiting more upscale venues, consider packing a pair of stylish, lightweight trousers or a summer dress as alternatives.

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The Complete 2-Week Europe Packing List

Last Updated on November 15, 2023

by Maggie Turansky

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.

Putting together a 2-week Europe packing list can prove incredibly difficult regardless if it’s your first trip to the continent or if you are a seasoned traveller.

Especially if you’re trying to travel light and minimalistically, prioritising things for your trip to Europe can be a bit tricky. We have travelled extensively all over Europe and have refined this ultimate packing list in order to ensure that you have everything you need, but also not too much!

So if you’re after the perfect packing list for Europe, then look no further. We’re here to make sure that you’re perfectly well-equipped for your trip without bringing one item too many in your limited space!

Table of Contents

Europe Packing Tips

Before I jump right into what you actually need to pack for Europe, we do need to discuss a few things in order to ensure that you are completely prepared to leave on your trip to Europe.

One of the most important things to be aware of is the season where you’re travelling, along with the region. Europe is vast with an array of varied climates and what you need to bring to be prepared largely depends on where and when you are visiting.

What you eventually end up taking with you really inevitably comes down to if you’re visiting Europe in winter or summer, northern or southern Europe.

Another thing to keep in mind when you’re planning out a packing list for visiting Europe is just how much you plan to bring with you.

It can be really hard to know what you’ll need or use on your trip, especially if you haven’t travelled much in Europe before. However, it is always a great idea to try to limit the amount of stuff you cart around with you.

Packing light can be a lot more pleasant in almost every aspect of travelling, from not having to worry about the weight limits on airlines or hauling your bags up stairs, through train stations and luggage racks.

Packing light also has the added benefit of making your things a lot easier to pack up and move when you move destination. It is unlikely that you will plan to stay in just one location on your trip and you don’t want to have to unpack and repack a bunch of different things every few days – not only is this simply a pain, it can also be very stressful.

The packing list below is quite minimalist, however, in times of travelling for similar-length trips to Europe, I’ve found that it is beyond sufficient.

When it comes to selecting items of clothing, especially, try to stray away from anything that you cannot mix and match and, often, opting for darker colours can be a great option.

Thinking more in the mindset of bringing a small capsule wardrobe rather than individual outfits to wear will help you be able to pack light while also mixing and matching to create a new look every day.

The other tip when it comes to packing light is to find accommodation that offers laundry facilities. Planning to do a wash while on the road will allow you not to have to bring so many things considering the fact that you can do a load of laundry mid-way through your trip.

Many hotels and hostels offer laundry services or, alternatively, you could find an Airbnb that has a washing machine you could use yourself. Laundromats are also always an option, though I can’t imagine it’s the preferable option considering the limited amount of time you have when it comes to exploring Europe.

Finally, when it comes to bringing items such as a hairdryer, curling iron or straightener, I would recommend refraining from this.

The vast majority of accommodations will have at least a hairdryer on-site and, especially if you’re travelling to Europe from North America, the voltage in the plugs is completely different and you risk completely ruining your devices should you use them, even if you are using an adaptor.

All in all, there are a number of things that one needs to take into consideration when figuring out what to pack for Europe. Follow the guidelines below and you should be perfectly well-equipped for your trip!

Ultimate Packing List for Europe

This ultimate Europe packing list is perfect for those looking to pack light and be a bit more minimalist in their adventure. While this certainly isn’t a complete bare-bones packing list for those who want to, say, travel carry-on only, it is good for those looking to not bring everything but the kitchen sink.

This is intended that you pack in a larger main piece of luggage (whether that be a travel backpack , wheeled backpack or traditional suitcase) along with a smaller piece of carry-on luggage such one from Level8 .

If you want to keep your items all organised then we also suggest using some packing cubes like the Eagle Creek Pack-It Compression Cubes

This checklist is also appropriate for all sexes and genders, just pick and choose some things as they don’t apply to you.

Figuring out what kind of clothing to bring is arguably the most important and most difficult thing about packing for Europe.

As mentioned earlier, it’s always a great idea to opt for neutral colours and items that you can mix and match to ensure that you can have some variety in your outfits without having to bring too many things and take up necessary valuable space in your luggage.

• Depending on the season or region of Europe you’re visiting, either bring a mixture of long-sleeve and short-sleeve tops, just long-sleeve or just short-sleeve tops to wear in Europe.
• I always recommend bringing one or two nicer tops or button-down shirts along with more casual t-shirts or tops. We like Bluffworks t-shirts as they’re both practical and also look good!
• Bringing one pair of jeans and one pair of another type of trouser is a great idea or one pair of lighter jeans and one pair of darker jeans. Having at least one pair of pants that can be dressed up is always a good idea
• You can browse some of our the best options in our best pants for travel in Europe guide.
• I, personally, love Bluffworks’ dresses , which have concealed pockets, a classic and flattering cut and can be dressed up or dressed down depending on the situation. Oh, it also is wrinkle-resistant and fully machine washable.
• If you’re visiting Southern Europe or simply travelling in the summer months, then having one or two pairs of shorts can be a great idea, especially when you need to keep cool or are heading to the beach.
• If your trip is during winter, having a tank top or light base layer will keep you warm without having to result in a bulky coat or jacket.
• Depending on the season or region, a cosy wool sweater or a light cardigan is a great idea when packing for 2 weeks in Europe. It can also be a good idea if you bring one that can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion (are you seeing a trend here?).
• Of course, you likely don’t need to include a jacket at all if you’re travelling to, say southern Spain or Malta in July, however, depending on the season, a warm, lightweight jacket is always a good idea for your trip.
• We recommend a packable down jacket ( click here for men’s version ), however, we have written a detailed guide for the best jacket for Europe depending on your needs.
• No matter the region or season, a rain jacket is always a good idea, as you can get caught out in a storm regardless of where and when you are travelling.
• We love the North Face Resolve ( click here for men’s version) as it has consistently kept us warm and dry in the rainiest of conditions.
• How much underwear you bring really depends on at what point in your trip you want to do laundry. If you want to avoid washing at all, then go ahead and bring 14 or 15 pairs of underwear. They do take up valuable space, however.
• Like underwear, how many socks (and the kinds of socks) you bring really depends on your shoe preference and just how often you want to do laundry.
• Bringing a swimming suit is a great idea even if you’re not going to a seaside destination. You never know when you may go to a bathhouse, sauna or pool on your Europe trip no matter the season.
• If you happen to be travelling to a beachy destination like Italy or Spain , consider bringing 2 pairs so you have time to dry each suit between wearings.
• I, personally, like to bring one regular bra and one sports bra, but this really depends on your needs and preferences.
• If you’re not a pajamas person, then don’t bother. I am, so I bring them. One pair for 2 weeks is sufficient.

Shoes take up A LOT of space in your luggage so limiting the footwear you bring on your Europe trip can be the ticket for maximising the space in your bags.

We have a complete guide on the best shoes for Europe to help you pick the right footwear for you. This is just what we recommend bringing when you’re compiling a packing list for 2 weeks.

• A good pair of sturdy, stylish walking sneakers is essential. Pick comfortable walking shoes that you can walk in for hours and kilometres and not have sore feet.
• I, personally, love the Ecco Soft 7 trainers and wear them all the time. For a men’s version consider the Ecco Soft 7 Runner.
• Choose your second pair of shoes depending on your style and the season you’re travelling in.
• If you’re an active traveller, are visiting a largely outdoor destination, or simply plan to do a bit of walking and hiking, then a good pair of hiking boots such as the Merrell Siren Edge for women ( available on REI here ) or Merrell Moab 2 for men ( available on REI here ) is essential.
• Small, compact, and helpful for everywhere from the beach to a hostel shower to a public pool, a pair of flip flops should always make it into your luggage!

Accessories

Whether fashion accessories or handy electronic gadgets, some of these are absolutely essential items to bring with you on your trip to Europe!

• The most important accessory of them all!
• Perfect for add a splash of style to any outfit, sipping over your head or shoulders if you’re visiting a church, using as a makeshift blanket, and also for its traditional use, a scarf is absolutely necessary to bring with you no matter the season.
• A warm hat to keep you toasty in the winter in Europe is always welcome, as is a sun hat to protect you from the harsh rays during summer in Europe.
• An essential item on any winter packing list!
• A solid anti-theft handbag like the PacSafe Cityscape or day pack is perfect for keeping your valuables safe and secure while you’re out and about sightseeing and exploring.
• Buying water and using plastic water bottles is a thing of the past. There are an infinite number of great water bottles for travelling to choose from like a Hydro Flask and you’ll never need to buy a single-use plastic bottle again.
• If you’re more serious about your photography than simply relying on your phone, then bringing a good camera is a great idea.
• We love the Sony A6400 for its high-quality images at a decent starting budget and there being several great travel lenses to use with it. Make sure to bring extra memory cards!
• You always need to have something good to read, but don’t want to pack a bunch of heavy books to bring with you – a Paperwhite Kindle solves all of these problems and it is an absolutely essential item if you love to read.
• Buy a prepaid SIM card like the Orange 20GB SIM either as physical SIM or eSIM to ensure you can stay connected in Europe.
• Finding a universal plug adaptor with a number of different USB drives is a fantastic option and is an absolutely essential item when travelling to Europe from elsewhere in the world!
• Finally, a power bank will give you peace of mind should your phone die while you are out and about or if you forget to give something a much-needed charge when you need to use it.
• Making sure you have an adequate number of charging cords for all of your devices will ensure that you can make sure everything can get the best battery life possible.
• A travel pillow is nice to have if you have a long flight or are taking overnight trains or buses.
• World Nomads   offers flexible and simple travel insurance policies with coverage for more than 150 activities that you can buy or extend while on the road.
• SafetyWing offers travel medical insurance policies that can are an option for long term budget travellers.
• Save your money and landfill space and forgo the travel-sized toiletries for refillable bottles of your shampoo and conditioner. We love GoToobs .
• You might want to bring earplugs if you’re staying at a hostel or budget accommodation where street noise can be an issue or for your flight.
• To avoid unnecessary spills in your toiletry bag, we recommend using a bar soap rather than a shower gel, but this is really up to you
• Keep your dry skin nice and hydrated!
• Bring as little makeup as you need. Personally, I limit myself to one lipstick, one eyeliner, mascara, a small eye shadow palette, foundation and a few brushes. I also make sure I have facial cleansing wipes for makeup removal and just to wash my face at the end of the day.
• If you’re a lens wearer, you need to pack this!
• Blisters and cuts happen, best to be prepared rather than have to hunt for a pharmacy to find these things while travelling.
• While you can get ibuprofen and the other over-the-counter pretty much everywhere, it’s always nice to have it on hand should a headache threaten to put a damper in your Europe trip. Ditto with other OTC medications you take regularly.

Piecing together the Europe packing list for 2 weeks doesn’t have to be all that difficult if you take into consideration all of the things outlined above. Think minimally and pack light and you’re sure to have a fantastic time on your adventure — wherever it may be that you’re going!

Are you trying to figure out what to pack for two weeks in Europe? Was this packing list helpful for your trip? Let us know in the comments!

Related Posts:

The Best Backpack For Backpacking Europe in 2024

The Best Walking Sandals for Europe Travel

LEVEL8 Luggage Review: Textured Carry-On 20″ Suitcase

About Maggie Turansky

Maggie is a co-founder and writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from the US, she has lived in five different countries and has travelled to dozens more, both solo and with her partner, Michael. She particularly loves exploring Spain and spending time in the Caucasus and the Baltics. Read more about Maggie

This is a great comprehensive list. It helps to prioritize what is really essential and can serve as a thorough starting point even if you want to tweak it some to meet your needs. I would add socks, belt and 1 or two costume jewelry pieces to the list.

Great list. I reviewed it against my list and they were pretty close. I have been reading your other articles and they have been most helpful. Many thanks!

This is very helpful. Thanks. I always seems to pack too much. Helen

Can most of this fit in a carry on and a personal bag?

This can be really dependent on the kind of bag, how you pack and the airline’s requirements! Sorry I couldn’t be more helpful 🙂

Thanks this was very helpful for a first time traveler 😉

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Packing For Summer In Europe: BEST Packing List (2024)

Is your summer vacation approaching and you’re starting to worry about packing for summer in Europe?

I’ve got you covered!

I’m a European and I’ve spent the last 20 years traveling around Europe every summer. 

I’m an expert at packing light, and I don’t think I ever paid for checked luggage – most times I can get away with free personal item!

However, we’re not doing extreme minimalism this time. I’ll give you the ultimate list of all the clothes, shoes, and accessories you’ll need to bring when traveling to Europe in the summer!

Sure, trends change, but the classic European summer packing list stays the same.

Let’s get started with what to pack for Europe in summer!

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. I hope you find the information here helpful!

Packing Tips For Europe In Summer

Before we get into individual items you should pack, let’s go over some general packing tips.

Ideally, you should be packing for summer in Europe in a carry-on only.

If you’re planning to bring 2 large suitcases this might not be an article for you.

1. Pack versatile clothing 

You want to take items you can mix and match.

I’m not saying that your whole wardrobe should be beige. Au contaire ! 

I love fun patterns in the summer, but I make sure I also pack enough neutrals that go with colorful items.

2. You don’t need more than 3 pairs of shoes

I don’t know who needs to hear this but put those heels back into your closet.

I’d say with 99% confidence that you don’t need heels in Europe. Even if you’re going to some of the best party locations in Europe this summer, flats will do!

For most travelers, 3 pairs of shoes are more than enough.

3. You can buy everything once you’re here

Unless you’re going to a remote destination, you can buy everything once you’re there. 

You can find all the most popular high street shops in Europe to buy essentials that you might have forgotten to pack.

It can even be fun to do some shopping in Europe, prices in Europe are not that expensive in most places!

So don’t stress too much about packing, clothes are not the most important part of your trip. 

4. Nobody cares if you repeat outfits

I’ve been guilty of this one for years! 

I thought I had to pack a different outfit for every day of my vacation because it was completely unacceptable to have 2 Instagram photos wearing the same outfit. 

The truth is, unless you’re a big Instagram influencer, nobody cares. In fact, nobody cares even if you are a big Instagram influencer!

Nowadays I pack only one outfit for beach days. It is usually a comfortable dress or a thin shirtdress if I catch too much sun. 

5. Use packing cubes

I never thought much about packing cubes until I finally bought them. 

I’m the biggest packing cube fan now!

They are especially useful if you’re packing for backpacking Europe and you’ll be on the road for a long time with a backpack.

I use them to separate my outfits so I don’t have to go through my whole bag when looking for something.

To be fair I don’t think they save you space, but they are organizational gold!

6. Adapt for the weather

Europe has several different climates, and summer doesn’t look the same on Greek islands and in Norway.

Check the weather forecast to make sure you’re packing appropriate clothing.

7. You’ll have to carry your bags

Finally, one thing to remember when packing is that you’ll have to carry those bags around for your entire trip.

Now, do you want to lug around a 20kg suitcase on cobblestone streets and staircases in Europe?

I don’t think you do. 

That doesn’t mean you should pack in a personal item backpack only , but you should pack light.

I think of this as a backpacking Europe packing list, but you can also take a carry-on suitcase if you prefer it. 

Wear your bulkiest items to make sure you fit more in your bags!

Packing List For Europe Summer

Now that we have a general idea of how you should pack, let’s get into individual items.

I’ll also show you how these items worked for me on my backpacking Europe trips.

You’ll see I love some of them so much that I’ve been packing them again and again for over 5 years!

I know I’m certainly not the most fashionable girl out there, so you can adapt the items to your style.

✅ 2-3 Dresses

I think dresses are the easiest thing to wear in the summer. 

Take 2-3 dresses, depending on other items you pack.

If you’re visiting cities, midi dresses are a casual but elegant way to blend in. Midi dresses are super popular in Europe and lots of locals wear them!

I usually bring 1 midi dress and 2 short dresses. 

My linen midi dress takes up a lot of space, so I usually wear it when traveling.

✅ 1-2 Pairs Of Linen Pants

Light linen pants are a great alternative to shorts. They are a fantastic option if you don’t want to have your legs out!

If you’re taking shorts, I would pack one pair. But you can take two if you prefer longer pants. 

I usually take my black or beige ones, as my midi skirt is already colorful.

✅ 1-2 Skirts or shorts

If you are a skirt person, bring one short skirt and one midi skirt.

I love midi skirts, they are just the best and the most versatile bottoms you can get.

I wear my colorful midi skirt during the day with light-colored tops and at night with a black top. It is definitely my most worn item. 

If you are a short person, then you should go for 1-2 pairs of shorts. 

I suggest one pair of jean shorts and one paper bag style of shorts.

✅ 5-10 Tops

I like to take 2 white cropped tops, several patterned cropped tops, and 2-3 darker tops for going out at night . 

While you can certainly get away with tiny shorts on the beach, I’d go for a more casual, longer pair if you’ll be in the cities. 

Most tops are very compact so you can pack quite a few. 

That is not to say that you should bring 20 tops if you’re only traveling for 2 weeks!

Make sure to bring at least one T-shirt that covers your shoulders. You’ll be glad you have it if you get sunburnt.

✅ 1 Cardigan 

Summers are hot in Europe, but it doesn’t hurt to bring a cardigan in case of unexpected cold weather.

If you’re not a cardigan girl, a light long sleeve linen shirt works as well!

✅ Jeans and a light jacket

You won’t need jeans and a jacket in most cases.

However, you should take them if you’re going to a place where it still gets cold in the summer.

For example, I visited Nantes in late July and I still had to wear a blazer and jeans at night because it was cold and rainy.

✅ 1-2 Bikini

If you’re going to one of Europe’s beach destinations you’ll need a bikini. 

However, you don’t need more than 2 bikinis. I don’t understand why people would pack 5 or more bikinis. 

You wear one and change into the other one. 

I grew up on the beach and trust me, most of us wear 1-2 bikinis the whole summer season! Let alone a 2 weeks holiday. 

Finally, don’t forget to pack PJs. A simple PJ set of shorts and a T-shirt works perfectly.

Depending on how many days you’re traveling for, don’t forget the basics!

• 7 pairs of underwear
• 3 pairs of socks (you’ll wear sandals most days)
• 2 bras/bralettes 
• 1 travel towel

You don’t need more than 3 pairs of shoes. 

If you’re staying in hostels you’ll also want shower shoes. Flip flops are so small they don’t take up any space, so I don’t count them 🙂

Comfortable flats

Comfortable walking shoes are the most important item you should pack for Europe. You’ll walk so much that you need your shoes to be comfortable. 

So, what are the best shoes for traveling in Europe? 

Honestly, any shoes you find comfortable. I usually take any sandals I’m wearing that summer.

Birkenstocks are very popular in Europe and most people find them very comfortable.

To be fair, sports sandals like Tevas are not very common in Europe like when you’re packing for Cambodia .

You will look like a tourist if you opt for them.

However, I don’t think there’s anything wrong with looking like a tourist if you’re feet are comfortable!

White sneakers

Your sneakers don’t have to be white, but any casual sneaker will work.

European girls wear sneakers with their summer outfits all the time.

I’d go for Converse or even running shoes if you plan on hiking. 

Nice sandals

If you want to dress up for a special occasion, nice sandals will work in 99% of the cases.

Sandals can look very elegant when paired with a nice dress or linen pants.

✅ Cosmetics

If you’re flying carry on only keep in mind that all of your cosmetics need to be under 100ml .

• Face sunscreen (!!)
• Conditioner
• Toothpaste 
• Hair ties + a hair claw for simple travel hairstyles

Apart from the cosmetics, I also like to take a minimal make-up routine. 

I know it is very personal what different women consider minimal, but remember that summers in Europe are hot. You don’t want your make-up melting off your face while sightseeing. 

• Powder foundation + brush
• Bronzer or blush
• Eyebrow gel + pencil
• Black liquid eyeliner

✅ Other Essentials

Travel essentials.

I talk a lot about the clothes, but don’t leave your house without these: 

• ID/passport
• phone + charger
• 2 cards (debit or credit)
• Emergency cash
• Visa documents

Don’t forget to bring your sunglasses. To be quite honest, they also replace make-up for me during most of my trips!

Crossbody bag or bumbag

I love my Uniqlo bum bag . It is the best day bag to take traveling as it fits so much!

Alternatively, you can also go for a casual crossbody bag. 

You want to keep your things nearby in a bag you can close to deter pickpocketers.

Water bottle

Tap water is drinkable almost everywhere in Europe so make sure you bring a reusable water bottle to limit plastic pollution.

Canvas tote bag

Canvas tote bags are so useful when traveling!

They fold up super small and you can take one when you need to carry more things along.

You can use it as a beach bag, as a shopping bag, or as a laundry bag!

Travel Insurance

You won’t pack your travel insurance in your bag, but you should not travel without it.

I use Safetywing as they are quite affordable and you can get insurance with them even if you’re already on the road!

Things You Don’t Need To Pack

As I said, I’ve been traveling around Europe for decades and I’ve packed items I regretted bringing along. 

Some of these might be controversial, but I really think you don’t need them when packing for summer in Europe.

❌ High Heels

Unless you’re on a romantic getaway where you’ll be going to Michelin-star restaurants, you don’t need high heels for summer in Europe.

If you want some additional height, wedges are a good compromise. 

I know you probably saw raincoats on many European packing lists, but I’d argue you don’t need it in 99% of cases.

I took a raincoat with me two times when backpacking Europe in summer and didn’t need it at all.

In the unlikely event it rains, you’re better off just buying a small umbrella on the spot.

❌ Full-Size Towel

You don’t need to bring a large bath towel. It will take up way too much space, and it is highly unlikely you’ll need it.

If you’re staying in hostels – bring a microfibre towel.

If you’re not backpacking and you’re staying in hotels and Aibnbs, they will have towels there that you can use.

Final Thoughts: Packing For Summer In Europe

Versatility should be the main idea to remember when packing for your trip to Europe this summer.

Try to pack in a carry-on only, as you don’t want to lug around a huge and heavy suitcase, especially if you’re moving around a lot. 

My general rule is to wear clothes I like to wear at home without worrying too much about being the trendiest person out there.

The most important is to enjoy your trip and you can only do that if you wear clothes that you’re comfortable in.

Do you already know where you’re going or you’re still working on your itinerary? 

Here are the best European summer destinations that you should visit this year!

Natali is the founder of She's Abroad Again. She is a solo female travel and backpacking expert who traveled to more than 30 country over 3 continents, mostly solo and on a budget! She is a lawyer turned travel blogger as she traded long office hours in Croatia for a digital nomad life and currenly calls France her home.

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The Ultimate Packing List for Europe in Summer + Packing Tips

by Sharyn McCullum | Last updated Mar 29, 2024 | Europe live work and play , Gear, Luggage + Packing

So you are going on a summer holiday in Europe. You’ve planned the perfect European itinerary . Your travel and accommodation is all booked. You just need to pack now. But what do you pack for a summer in Europe? Well, I’ve been through Europe a number of times and in all seasons and learnt what to pack and what to leave behind for a European holiday. To make it easier for you, I have put together the ultimate packing list for Europe in summer from my first hand experiences. It’s designed to help you choose the essentials for travelling Europea in summer. So let’s get packing.

This post contains affiliate links. Read my full disclosure here .  

Table of Contents

What to Wear in Europe in Summer – Your Style Guide for Europe

The good news is that Europe is basically always hot during the summer months – so you can leave all the heavy sweaters and coats at home! Unless you plan to go high into the Alps on your European holiday and then you might need some winter clothing items . But in general, packing for a European summer holiday is different to a packing list for Europe in winter.

Europeans have the reputation for being fashionable people who dress nicely. After all, Paris and Milan are known fashion capitals. None of this walking around in shorts, sweatpants and sneakers! Unless you are off to the beach or the gym!

When planning your Europe packing list for summer, so you don’t look like a tourist , it is best to dress to blend in. You have less chances of being targeted if you do. I recommend you dress fashionably, especially in the larger cities. Also, as you are travelling around Europe in the summer time, there can be some very hot long days and so these clothes not only need to be fashionable, they need to be lightweight and comfortable also.

Your Europe Summer Outfits Tips

My biggest tips for packing for a European summer trip are:

• Your Europe summer outfits should be clothes you can mix and match, so you can wear them more than once.
• Take lightweight, comfortable and fashionable clothes.
• Choose clothes made from fabrics that breath, yet dry quickly.
• Wear layers – if its hot you can take them off and if cold, you can put something on.
• Consider the different European cultures on your packing list for Europe. Some cultures require women to cover up before entering into cathedrals and mosques.

How to Carry Your Things around Europe? – Your Luggage Guide for Europe

Luggage is very important to carry all your items through Europe. And the type of luggage you take can make or break your trip. You probably think that is a big statement, and yes, it is, but it is true. Taking the wrong type of luggage on your European vacation can really hinder you.

To choose the right luggage for you, consider the type of travelling you will be doing. Are you backpacking through Europe or going on an organised tour? In general, you have two choices –  Travel Backpack or a Suitcase with wheels .

Both of these luggage options have pros and cons . A travel backpack is far easier to carry around particularly if you are getting on and off transport often. Ensure you get the right size as there is nothing worse than having an uncomfortable backpack on your back. A wheeled suitcase is also a good option but difficult to pull along when you are on the move over the many cobblestoned roads and long-winded European staircases. Keep a look out for the hybrid backpack and suitcase – it is basically a backpack with wheels – best of both worlds. Check out this hybrid backpack .

Other luggage items that will help you pack appropriately include:

• Travel Wallet for your documents.
• Day Pack or Cross Body Bag – one of these will be useful for carrying things around for a day of sightseeing.
• Packing Cubes – these are great to sort your luggage. Read my review on packing cubes here .
• Hanging Toiletry Bag – one of these will help you keep all your toiletries in the one place
• Money Belt – these are useful to hide your valuables such as your passport and credit cards but I now use a more stylish messenger bag . Read my review on messenger bags here.

Let’s Pack Your Bag for Europe

I’ve divided the following into what to wear in Europe for ladies summer and what to wear in Europe for men summer for your convenience. Whether you are backpacking through Europe or going on an organised tour, my packing list for Europe in summer is adaptable for both types of travelling.

Europe Summer Packing List: Womens Clothes and Shoes

• Dresses and skirts  – bring at least 2-3 dresses and/or skirts. Dresses that are casual that can be worn during the day, yet able to be warn at night. Maxi dresses are great for this.
• Lightweight pants – a pair of lightweight or linen pants for those days when it is a little cooler or for going out.
• Leggings – 2 pairs. Great for when you are travelling, exercising or relaxing for a day at the hostel or hotel 
• Jeans – a pair will be useful for when the weather isn’t so stiflingly hot. Plus, if you like to wear them, wear them.
• Shorts – 1 or 2 pairs of shorts will come in handy for those days spent visiting beach areas. I suggest avoid wearing them around the European cities and wear dresses, skirts and lightweight pants. Avoid really short shorts as you may not be allowed entry into some religious buildings if you’re not covered up.
• Shirts/tops/t-shirts  – I recommend bringing 3-4 tops to mix and match with skirts, pants and shorts.
• Sweater/Jumper/ Hoodie  – Pack at least 1 long sleeve sweater or hoodie for chilly summer nights and air-conditioned places.
• Waterproof lightweight Jacket   – Bring a waterproof light jacket. Some parts of Europe (especially Northern Europe) might be cool in the summer even in the daytime. And it can rain anytime.
• Comfortable walking shoes  – A must for sightseeing and continuous walking around streets. And for those hikes. Depending on your outfit you might want either casual sandals or comfortable flats or fashionable sneakers.
• Dressier sandals or shoes – 1 or 2 pairs for going out at night. Maybe a pair of platform shoes or stilettos if that’s what you like to wear out.
• Thongs/Flip-flops – I recommend taking one pair to wear to the beach or to the shower blocks. I suggest not wearing while sightseeing as they don’t provide much support for your feet and you will be walking on many cobblestoned streets. A more supportive sandal will be much better.
• Underwear and socks – depending on your length of time you are visiting Europe for I suggest bring at least 7 pairs of underwear, yes, one for every day, and 3-4 pairs of sox. Maybe 2-3 bras.
• Swimsuit – 1 pair unless your are spending many days at the beach and want to change outfits.
• Sarong – these are so versatile. You can wear it to the beach, to the shower blocks and to wrap around your clothes to cover up in a church.
• Nightwear – pyjamas
• Scarf   –  A  lightweight scarf will keep you warm on chilly summer nights or places with too much air-conditioning.  A scarf is also useful when visiting churches or cathedrals which require women to cover their heads and or shoulders.

Europe Summer Packing List: Mens Clothes and Shoes

• Lightweight pants    –  bring at least 2 pairs of lightweight pants for sightseeing and to wear out to restaurants or bars.
• Shorts – a pair or two of nice shorts for when visiting beach areas.
• Shirts/tops/t-shirts  –  I recommend men bring at least 4 short sleeve shirts, tops or t-shirts.
• Sweater/Jumper   – Pack at least 1 long sleeve sweater or hoodie for chilly summer nights and air-conditioned places.
• Waterproof lightweight Jacket    – Bring a waterproof light jacket. Some parts of Europe (especially Northern Europe) might be cool in the summer even in the daytime. And it can rain anytime.
• Comfortable walking shoes  – A must for sightseeing and continuous walking around streets. And for any hikes. Depending on your outfit you might want either casual sandals or comfortable flats or fashionable sneakers.
• Dressier shoes or loafers – 1 or 2 pairs for going out at night.
• Underwear and socks – depending on your length of time you are visiting Europe for I suggest bring at least 7 pairs of underwear, yes, one for every day, and 3-4 pairs of sox.
• Bandana  – these are so versatile, you can use it to wipe off sweat or use as a scarf or mask

TIP : Don’t wear new shoes unless you have warn them in. You don’t want blisters on your first day! But if you do, I hope you have a first aid kit with plasters/band aids.

Packing for Europe: Toiletries and Medicines

• Toothpaste and Toothbrush
• Hair Brush and / or comb
• Cleanser and moisturiser
• Shampoo and Conditioner – or shampoo bar
• Feminine hygiene products
• Baby wipes – if you can’t shower, these will help keep you fresh
• Microfibre Travel Towel
• Medicines you require for the length of your trip.

Packing for Europe: Electronic Travel Essentials

• Mobile phone – one of these will not only allow you to keep in contact with peeps and take photos but you can download some very useful apps to help you travel. Apps for booking hostels or hotels or a table at a restaurant. Plus, a European eSim .
• Waterproof Smart Phone Bag .
• Dry Bag for wet clothes. I often use a plastic bag as my dry bag was stolen.
• European Travel Adaptor for your electronics.
• External Battery Charger or Power Bank – to charge your electronics while on the go.
• Camera/photography gear.
• Laptop Computer – if you are a digital nomad and working online as you travel Europe.

Europe Packing List: Other Useful Things to Pack for Europe

• Sunglasses – European countries are very sunny during the summer months so sunglasses are a must! Lucky, if your forget to take a pair you could buy a pair!
• Hat or cap – If you are spending a lot of time outdoors, don’t forget to bring a hat or cap.
• Sun Protection – Europe in summer is hot and sunny and if you are outside sightseeing most days ensure you have some sun protection. There is nothing worse being burnt to a cinder from sightseeing. You will be uncomfortable for a few days! Lucky if you forget to bring some, you can easily find sunscreen in Europe to buy.
• Reusable water bottle – one of these is a great way to save money on expensive bottled water. It will help you stay hydrated having access to water.
• Insect Repellent – yes, unfortunately, those pesky critters are even in Europe.
• First Aid kit
• Head Lamp or Torch – one of these is great for rummaging through your backpack at night and also for those times you need to go to the toilet in the middle of the night!
• Sink Plug or Stopper
• Anti-theft locks  – to keep your things safe in your accommodation and on your body
• Sealable Lunch Bags
• Laundry powder and travel clothes line
• Toilet Paper
• Antibacterial wipes and / or hand sanitizer
• Blanket – a small blanket will come in handy if you travelling through Europe in summer on overnight trains and buses. It can get a little cool sometimes overnight.
• A neck pillow will come in handy for those long train, bus and plane journeys.
• Fold up umbrella or raincoat for those unexpected showers.
• Travel Journal and pen – if you want to write about your European trip, which many of us do, add a travel journal to your summer Europe packing list or perhaps start a travel blog.

Packing List Essentials for European Travel: Paperwork and Financial Stuff

• Passport and visas. Ensure to have the appropriate visas in your passport. Read up on the European Shengen Visa here . • Cash, debit and credit cards. • Drivers license and international drivers license if planning on driving. • COVID vaccine card and/or negative COVID test (if required). * Travel Insurance. *  Have accommodation booking confirmations and entrance ticket confirmations printed out or in your electronic wallet.

READ MORE : What to Wear on a Plane

Do You Need to Bring all this?

No, you don’t need to bring everything on this packing list to Europe summer with you. There are plenty of stores in Europe where you can purchase things. I suggest you lay everything out on the floor and look at each item to ensure you will need it for your European travels. Packing light will help you travel better.

Now Get Packing for your summer in Europe

I have used this exact packing list for summer holiday European visits. If I discover I need anything else I just buy it along the way. Congrats on choosing Europe to travel through and I hope you have the best time! Knowing you have all the essentials in your Europe packing list I’m pretty sure you will! I’d love to hear from you if you have any other items you would include or have found useful while travelling Europe. Please leave comments below.

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Sharyn McCullum – Travel Writer / Blogger, Remote On-line Worker, sometime Digital Nomad and Travel, Live and Work Abroad Expert. Is a chocoholic, coffee connoisseur and lover of ’80s music. Been travelling all her life thanks to her dad who worked for an airline. Lived in London 4 years on a working holiday. Has holidayed in Hawaii over 15 times and currently calls Melbourne, Australia home. Is inspiring others to get the live work play travel lifestyle with this blog. Read more about Sharyn here.

Great round-up of packing items. I agree shoes are everything when going to Europe. So definitely do not wear brand new shoes to avoid blisters.

I love your list. I never thought about bringing a close line before. I also end up doing laundry in the sink so that would be very helpful!

I’m glad you love my list. A clothes line definitely comes in handy when travelling.

I enjoyed your suggestions for the ultimate packing list for Europe. It will be useful when planning my summer vacation.

Yes, it is quite extensive and has all the things that I usually take on my travels in Europe.

This is so helpful, thanks for sharing. I’m heading to Italy this summer so will definitely save this guide

This is a pretty extensive list. I like that if you forget something, you can most likely find a replaement in Europe. (Makes a great souvenir, too!)

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The Ultimate Packing List for Europe Summer Edition

Summer in Europe offers a plethora of attractions, from stunning beaches to trendy urban centers and breathtaking national parks. However, creating a packing list for European summer adventures can pose challenges due to the varying weather conditions.

Great news! You don’t need to wear bulky coats.

Unfavorable conditions include extreme heat, varying dress codes across countries, and a diverse itinerary encompassing outdoor activities like beach visits and city explorations. As a result, compiling a summer packing list for Europe can pose challenges due to these factors.

After extensive travels across Europe throughout the year, we have grown accustomed to repeatedly packing our things.

Utilizing our extensive travel expertise, we have curated a comprehensive packing guide for your summer trip to Europe. Implementing these suggestions is sure to enhance the tranquility of your journey.

Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost. Please see our disclosure policy for more details.

Table of Contents

The Absolute Essentials for Visiting Europe in Summer

Travel gear you should definitely pack for summer in europe, packing list for europe: summer wardrobe for women.

When preparing your packing list for a summer trip to Europe, it’s important to consider the specific locations you’ll be visiting. For instance, you may opt for a more formal attire when exploring cities in Italy compared to a casual look for a sailing adventure in Greece. However, if you’re seeking versatile clothing options that can cater to various European destinations, these recommendations will be perfect for you!

Having been full-time travelers for almost four years, we have become experts in living out of a backpack while exploring Europe. The recommendations below are based on my top picks for summer wear in Europe.

I adore donning dresses during the European summer! They are convenient to pack, effortless to wear, versatile for any occasion, and effortlessly stylish, while being a simple wardrobe choice.

When exploring Europe during the summer, you’ll often spot me in outfits like these. It’s wise to pack a couple of maxi dresses (such as this lovely one) that are both camera ready and suitable for visiting religious landmarks like churches and mosques.

Rompers, such as this one, offer a playful alternative to dresses and are perfect for those who prefer an all-in-one outfit. Two-piece ensembles are also a great choice. The lemon pattern on this romper reminds me of the beautiful Amalfi Coast!

Vibrant and eye-catching tops are ideal for European beach getaways. I enjoy a variety of options, such as these, and if you prefer crop tops, choices like this one are trendy for beach outings.

Did you know that Europeans are not big on wearing shorts? While it may be true in cities like Milan or Paris, places like Dubrovnik or Mykonos are a different story! Embrace the opportunity to rock some stylish jean shorts from my favorite denim brand at beach destinations.

In urban settings, skirts such as these are highly recommended, and airy midi skirts also offer a stunning appearance.

Bathing Suits

For a summer trip to Europe with multiple beach stops, it’s a good idea to pack 2-3 bathing suits. Opt for versatile options like these two. If you’re keen on water activities such as snorkeling or scuba diving, bring along a one-piece suit as well.

When creating your packing list for a summer trip to Europe, prioritize comfort when choosing which shoes to bring. I’ve personally found that comfortable footwear is essential for exploring Europe during the summer months. Consider boat shoes or Converse sneakers, as they are favored by many backpackers and tourists on the trail.

During the hot summer months in Europe, the scorching heat can be intense. However, the cool relief of air conditioning inside museums, hotels, trains, and buses quickly erases any discomfort. It’s a good idea to include a light jacket on your packing list for Europe to stay comfortable during these moments. Personally, I always make sure to pack one and find it very useful.

Accessories

Don’t forget to pack sunglasses and a sunhat for your summer trip to Europe! Whether you buy them in advance or pick them up as souvenirs, you’ll find these essentials available at almost every corner during the summer travel season in Europe.

Packing List for Europe: Summer Wardrobe for Men

T-shirts are a must-have for men’s travel outfits in Europe, so consider choosing vibrant new ones! Additionally, shirts with intricate designs can also be a great choice. If you prefer them, you can also go for light and casual button-up shirts.

In the hot summer months, shorts are a common sight across Europe, particularly among tourists. Consider opting for chinos instead when visiting religious sites with dress codes or in formal cities like Paris if you can bear it. However, along the coast, your choice of shorts will blend right in without drawing attention.

In Europe during the summer, it’s common to choose lightweight, casual footwear like these. No matter what you pack, ensure they are comfortable and well-worn for long walks before including them on your European summer packing list!

Bathing Suit

Ensure you pack one or two bathing suits for your European beach getaway this summer. These suits will be a perfect fit for your trip.

During the scorching summers in Europe, staying cool is key. Luckily, the air conditioning in museums, hotels, trains, and buses offers a refreshing escape from the heat. Consider adding a light jacket to your European summer packing list for those occasional chilly moments. Jeremy always brings this versatile jacket on his European trips, no matter the season, and finds it indispensable.

When traveling to? Europe during the summer, it’s essential to have sunglasses and a hat. You can buy them in advance or get them as souvenirs, as they are widely available on almost every street corner throughout the summer travel season in Europe!

Other Travel Gear for Your Packing List for Europe in Summer

Dry Bag — When embarking on a summer adventure in Europe that involves waterfront activities – such as beach hopping in Sicily, cruising the French Riviera by car, or exploring the Greek islands by boat – having a dry bag to safeguard your camera and cell phone is essential for ensuring their safety without the risk of losing them.

Swim Goggles — When heading to the beach in Europe during the summer, be sure to include swim goggles on your packing list. They are affordable, compact, and enhance the enjoyment of swimming.

Sea Bands & Non-Drowsy Dramamine __If your someone who often experiences motion sickness, I highly suggest including Sea Bands in your summer essentials for your trip to Europe.

I utilize these products for all types of boats and sometimes even on buses. In case of severe discomfort, I also rely on Non-Drowsy Dramamine for relief.

Ensure you don’t let seasickness prevent you from experiencing the delights of boating in the Mediterranean. Trust me, it’s an experience you won’t want to miss!

Tripod & Wireless Remote — When traveling in a group, using a tripod and remote can help capture group photos effortlessly, avoiding the need for selfies. While carrying this equipment may be cumbersome and not recommended in crowded places, the unforgettable memories and high-quality photos make it worth the effort.

Extra Memory Cards — Don’t worry about running out of space on your camera’s memory card – make sure to pack some extras! These small cards are easy to carry and won’t take up much room in your bag.

Travel Journal — For those seeking a convenient way to document their European summer adventures without the burden of lengthy writing every night, the Line a Day Journal comes highly recommended. Having personally used and enjoyed it for over a year, I can attest to its effectiveness.

Money Belt — The decision is yours: while we no longer rely on it, if you feel more at ease carrying your passports with you during your European summer adventures, it might be worth considering bringing one along. In the past, we used this particular item without any issues. Nowadays, we opt to store valuables in our Pacsafe during the daytime instead.

Basic Medication — Certain individuals opt to purchase medication for common headaches, fevers, and stomach aches on an as-needed basis. However, the last thing anyone wants to contend with when feeling unwell is language barriers. Carrying our own basic medications has always proven to be a wise decision.

Q1: Is it necessary to pack a power adapter for my trip to Europe?

Yes, it’s crucial to bring a power adapter as European outlets differ from those in the US.

Q2: Do I need to pack a travel-sized umbrella for my summer trip to Europe?

It’s always wise to pack a compact umbrella as weather can be unpredictable in Europe even during the summer.

Q3: Should I bring formal attire for dining out in Europe?

While not mandatory, having one dressy outfit is recommended for fancy dinners or special occasions.

Q4: Are there any specific clothing items I should avoid packing for a summer trip to Europe?

Avoid heavy fabrics and opt for breathable materials like cotton and linen suitable for warmer temperatures.

Q5: Can I rely on public transportation in Europe, or should I rent a car?

Public transportation in Europe is efficient, reliable, and cost-effective, making it the preferred choice for most travelers.

Q6: Should I carry cash or rely on credit cards while traveling in Europe?

It’s advisable to have a mix of both cash and credit cards, as some places may not accept cards, especially in smaller towns.

Q7: Is travel insurance necessary for my trip to Europe during the summer?

Having travel insurance is highly recommended to protect against unforeseen events, such as flight cancellations or medical emergencies.

Q8: How much luggage should I bring on my trip to Europe during the summer?

Packing light is key when traveling in Europe. Aim for versatile clothing pieces and limit yourself to one suitcase or backpack.

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A Complete Packing List for Europe: Summer Essentials

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Summer in Europe is a magical time of year that beckons you to roam the historic streets of Rome, savour the delicious pastries of Paris , and bask in the beauty of Barcelona’s beaches. As the temperature rises and the sun shines brighter, summer in Europe is the perfect time to explore. But before you get lost in the magic of it all, let’s talk about the elephant in the room – putting together a packing list for Europe. Strict airline baggage allowances and the ever-changing European weather mean knowing what to pack for summer in Europe can feel like a daunting task.

With so many destinations and activities on offer, it can be a challenge to curate a packing list that balances fashion, function, and comfort. I’ve been at both ends of the spectrum. I’ve stared at the empty insides of my case not knowing what to pack and had to sit on it to zip it up wondering if I really needed everything inside.

I also convinced myself that ‘just in case’ is better than forgetting stuff, right? Well, possibly, but if you’re travelling with carry-on only , then you could end up with a hefty fine for going over the packing limit. So, there’s definitely a middle ground.

But fear not, as it doesn’t have to be complicated. As a seasoned traveller who’s explored many of Europe’s summer hotspots , I’m here to share my top packing tips and tricks to help you pack smart and light for your summer adventure in Europe.

Full Packing List for Europe in Summer

• Travel Insurance
• Boarding Tickets
• Travel Debit Card / Money
• International Driving Permit
• Packing Cubes
• Clear Carry-on Bag for Liquids
• Reusable Water Bottle
• Portable USB Charger
• Charging Cables
• Beach Towel
• Airplane Entertainment
• Travel Adaptor Plug
• Hand Sanitizer
• Light Jacket
• 1-2 x T-Shirts
• 2-3  x Vest Tops
• 2  x Pairs of Shorts
• 2  x Skirts
• 1 x Pair of Denim Jeans
• 1 x Pair of Comfortable Trousers
• 1 x Pair of Leggings
• 2 x Sundresses
• 1 x Maxi Dress
• 2 x Cardigans
• 7-8 x Pairs of Underwear and Socks
• 1-2 x Bikini
• 1 x One-piece
• 1 x Sandals
• 1 x Comfortable Trainers
• Shampoo and Conditioner
• Moisturiser
• Paracetamol
• Antihistamines
• Motion Sickness Tablets

Travel Packing Essentials

The absolute basics.

Passport – The backbone of any adventure be it Europe or the rest of the world, the first thing you need to pack is your passport. I can’t count the number of times I’ve double and triple-checked whether I’ve packed the passports as we’re driving to the airport. Countries in Europe don’t tend to accept passports with less than 3 months’ validity. But it’s best to renew it when it reaches 6 months, just to be safe. 

Travel Insurance – You honestly never know what could go wrong when you’re travelling abroad, so I always ensure I have valid travel insurance. I tend to go for an all-world annual policy, but you can also buy insurance for individual trips. I recommend Safety Wing , as they are affordable, easy to use, and specialize in nomadic travel insurance.

Boarding Tickets – I always make sure to check in to my flight at least 24 hours before (once again, you could face fines if you don’t), and screenshot my boarding pass on my phone. This makes navigating the airport so much easier. If you have an iPhone, you can also add your boarding pass to Apple Wallet depending on the airline.

Travel Debit Card / Money – I don’t personally exchange currency before I travel anymore. I much prefer taking a travel debit card with me with all my spending money prepaid onto it. Then, I can withdraw from a cash point for free while I’m out there and I don’t end up with a load of unused foreign currency at the end of my trip. I use Starling Bank every time I travel. They are great, use a much better exchange rate, and have a handy app that automatically converts every transaction I make.

A Few Extras

GHIC Card – Most people don’t think about medical emergencies when they’re deciding what to pack for summer in Europe. But unfortunately, they do happen. If you end up falling ill on your trip, having a valid GHIC card will ensure that you can pay a discounted rate for treatment.

International Driving Permit – If you plan on renting a car abroad, you might need an international driver’s permit with you. This will save any awkward encounters at the car hire desk!

Must-Haves Gear for Summer in Europe

The necessities.

Packing Cubes –  Not only can packing cubes keep you well-organized, but they can also effectively compress your clothes, allowing you to pack more efficiently and maximize space in your luggage.

Clear Carry-on Bag for Liquids – I swear by these for airports because I can never fit my toiletries in the plastic bags airports provide. It also means I don’t have to spend time at security taking all my liquids out. I can simply place my liquids in the bag and breeze through with no problem. I use one like this. (Bear in mind that this doesn’t work with all airports in Europe and you may still need to separate things occasionally).

Day Bag – A handy bag for day-to-day use, this ensures that I can take all my essentials with me when I’m out and about. I tend to bring two-day bags with me – a backpack like this for exploring and photography and then a smaller, shoulder bag for the evenings .

Reusable Water Bottle – I swear by my reusable water bottle. Able to keep drinks cool for up to 24 hours (and drinks warm for up to 12 hours – ideal for winter trips ), this is a godsend in warmer temperatures. It’s also a great way to save money and save the environment as you don’t have to keep buying reusable plastics. 

Sunglasses – An absolute must for summer in Europe. I forgot my sunglasses once and had to buy a cheap pair that dug into my nose so, safe to say, these are essential . Make sure you pick ones with UVA and UVB protection.

Beach Towel – For chilling on the sand, a beach towel is very useful. I like to use a microfiber one which also helps stop sand from creeping onto it. But you could also get a cotton one .

Hand Sanitizer – Even before COVID-19, this was a staple in my bag. When taking public transport around Europe or even just exploring public spaces, it’s great for keeping clean.

Camera – I take my Fuji-XT3 on every trip I take. It’s essential for taking great travel photography and I also bring at least two lenses, typically my everyday lens and my wide-angle lens . Don’t forget to pack your SD card too.

Portable USB Charger – My phone is my staple for directions when I travel. If it dies, then it can be a bit of a struggle to find directions back to my accommodation. So, I always bring my portable charger in my day bag. 

Charging Cables – Essential for plugging into the portable charger. I usually bring my iPhone cable and my camera charger cable.

AirPods – I’ll be honest, I’m a bit of a nervous flier! I have a particular playlist on Spotify that helps me relax for take-offs and landings. As such, my AirPods are a travel essential. 

Airplane Entertainment – You can’t go wrong with a good book and you’ll usually find a copy of The Philosopher’s Stone in my carry-on bag! I also tend to bring my iPad for movies or games and recently invested in a travel-sized connect 4 .

Travel Adaptor Plug – Essential for charging devices or using tools like travel straighteners, don’t forget to pack your adaptation plug. I use this one that’s adaptable all over the world. 

Packing List for Europe in Summer: Wardrobe Essentials

T-Shirts – I recommend packing 1-2 comfortable t-shirts for summer in Europe. Neutral colours make it easier to mix and match these with different bottoms. White , black , grey, and beige are all good colour choices.

Vest Tops – You’ll want some vest tops to combat the heat at this time of year. Once again, packing neutral colours will make matching these easier. These are also small and easy to pack, so I recommend bringing 2-3 different vest tops. 

Light Jacket – You might not think you need to add a jacket to your packing list for Europe. But even in summer, you can experience some chilly evenings, strong wind, or even rainy days. So, this jacket will help you stay prepared. 

Cardigan – For a light cover-up, you’ll want to pack a few cardigans. Pick lightweight, neutrally coloured options and they’ll go with most of your outfits. I also suggest using a combination of short and long cardigans for variety. I usually pack two cardigans – a short one , and a long one .

Sunhat – To protect your head and add a touch of style to your outfit, a chic sunhat is a must.

The Bottoms

Shorts – You can’t go wrong with a pair of shorts, especially when visiting Europe in summer. I tend to pack one pair of denim shorts , and one pair of floaty fabric shorts for those really hot days when I want something a little loser. 

Skirts – I love skirts when I travel and tend to take my favourite floaty floral one on every trip I go on. I also pack a denim skirt for easy style.

Denim jeans – You honestly never know what the weather is going to do, so, when packing for Europe in summer, bringing at least one pair of jeans is a must.

Comfortable trousers – Cute floaty trousers can make a great summer outfit. I like to pack a pair of these for every trip to Europe . 

Leggings – These are mainly my aeroplane bottoms. I have learned not to wear jeans on a plane (it can get super uncomfortable) so I usually wear my leggings on the plane and leave them in my case until I fly back home.

Underwear and socks – I usually pack about 7-8 pairs of each. 

The Outfits

Sundresses – A good few sundresses are an absolute must on any European packing list! I always pack one or two cute floaty dresses.

Midi or Maxi Dress – A stylish addition to your case, longer dresses are super comfortable and versatile. You can wear them for a casual day about town or dress them up for a night out.

Romper – For really warm days, my romper comes in very handy. Quick to just throw on and go, it’s essential in my summer case.

The swimwear

Bikini – For the pool or the beach, you can’t go wrong with a bikini . I recommend packing 1-2 bikinis, especially if you love spending time in the water.

One-piece – I always pack my one-piece as well. If I know I’m going to be in the water, but a little more active (perhaps participating in water sports, or playing volleyball on the beach), I prefer something a little more secure.

The Footwear

Sandals – A must on any packing list for Europe, you can’t go wrong with a pair of sandals. I recommend picking 2 pairs – one that is comfortable and sturdy like these , and something a little more fun for evenings out. 

Comfortable trainers – You’ll also want to bring a pair of trainers with you. For those days when you’re out exploring (perhaps chasing waterfalls in Croatia or exploring ancient ruins in Greece ), these will be essential.

Packing List for Europe in Summer: Toiletries

For in the shower.

Shampoo and Conditioner – I absolutely love Olaplex. Their shampoo and conditioner do wonders for your hair and their 100ml bottles are small enough to fit in a carry-on case.

Leave-in conditioner – To prevent unbearable frizz in the warm European weather, you’ll want a leave-in conditioning treatment for your hair. Once again, I go for Olaplex, this time number 6 .

Shower Gel – A travel-sized shower gel is a must. Alternatively, you can use the hotel miniatures, if you want to save room in your toiletries bag.

Razor – So you can still get your legs out at the end of your trip!

Facewash – I tend to bring a cleansing wash with me to keep the skin on my face healthy. 

For out the shower

Deodorant – A must for warm weather. I love stick deodorants like this and they work really well. Plus, they’re refillable, so good for the environment too.

Makeup – This depends on what you wear. But typical staples include foundation, eyelash curler, mascara, eyeliner, eyebrow pencil, and tweezers. 

Perfume – I love my travel perfume. I have several 100ml versions of my favourite perfumes that I always bring with me when I travel. This is my current favourite. If you don’t have travel-sized perfumes, pour your regular perfumes into travel bottles .

Toothpaste and toothbrush – Another essential. If you have an electric toothbrush, don’t forget to charge it before you leave or bring your charger with you.

Sunscreen – Summer can get pretty warm which is why sunscreen is essential on any Europe packing list. Bring one with a good sun protection factor of 30 or above. 

After Sun – For keeping your skin silky smooth after prolonged sun exposure, packing a good after sun is a must. 

Face moisturizer – I also like to bring a separate moisturizer with me for my face, to keep my skin protected. 

Lip balm – Another absolute must for summer weather, I take my chapstick on every trip I go on.

Just in case

Paracetamol – I tend to take a box of painkillers with me when I travel as a precaution. There’s nothing worse than getting a headache while you’re away or even injuring yourself. My fiance once tripped over a curb and bruised his foot – paracetamol was a lifesaver.

Antihistamines – I also take antihistamines with me when I travel just in case I get hay fever or bitten by a bug. 

Motion sickness tablets – Once again, these are just a precaution, but, if like me, you tend to get a little motion sick, then these will help you enjoy things like boat trips much more.

Packing for a summer trip to Europe doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With a little planning, some smart choices, and the right mindset, you can pack everything you need for a memorable and stress-free adventure. 

By sticking to versatile, lightweight, and breathable clothing, bringing the right accessories, and packing smart, you can create a well-rounded wardrobe that can adapt to a wide range of activities and destinations. Remember to consider the climate and cultural norms, and be mindful of any baggage restrictions or weight limits. And most importantly, don’t forget to leave some space in your luggage for souvenirs. 

With this summer packing list for Europe, you can travel light, comfortably, and stylishly, and fully enjoy the endless wonders that Europe has to offer in the summertime. Bon voyage!

My favourite tools for finding cheap travel

• SKYSCANNER – For amazing flight deals.
• BOOKING.COM – For affordable hotels and accommodation.
• SAFETY WING – For affordable, reliable travel insurance.
• DISCOVER CARS – For cheap car hire around the world.
• OMIO – For trains, coaches, and transfers.
• GET YOUR GUIDE – For attractions and tours.
• AIRALO – For a global eSim that keeps you connected.

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a small commission if you make a purchase. But, I only recommend products and companies that I use and love.

Alice Smith is a full-time travel blogger and content creator and the founder of Adventures of Alice. Following an unexpected redundancy from her career as a Content Marketing Specialist, she embraced her passion for exploration and turned her hobby of travel blogging into a full-time career.

From her roots near Cambridge, UK, she's ventured to over 30 countries since 2016. With a passion for the outdoors and a knack for finding the extraordinary in the ordinary, Alice is on a mission to show that budget travel can still be luxurious and that every destination, no matter how touristy, holds hidden gems.

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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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What to Pack for Summer in Europe 2024: A Complete Packing List and Outfit Inspiration

A trip to Europe in the summer is an absolute dream! Cobblestone streets, delicious food, epic views, and iconic history lessons are in your future. Summer is one of the most popular and best time of year to visit Europe. This post will walk through exactly what you need to pack for summer in Europe with my favorite tips and tricks to pack more efficiently without sacrificing style.

Depending on your itinerary and destination, deciding what to pack in your bag for a trip to Europe in the summer is a challenge. This summer Europe packing list has you covered from head to toe in comfortable attire for travel, all while looking trendy. Also, all packing lists on my website are meant to fit in a carry-on bag. By following the Europe summer packing list below, you will be confident that you have everything you need while packing lightly and efficiently!

What weather to expect in Europe in the summer

No matter the exact location of your summer in Europe trip, you can most likely expect it to be hot. Some destinations will be much warmer than others. You will want to pack lightweight, comfortable, and durable clothing to wear all day.

Hopefully it is sunny where you are traveling, but you should also prepare for the occasional rain shower.

Make sure to also read our Europe travel tips when planning your summer trip to Europe!

Skyscanner is one of our favorite tools to find cheap flights around the world. Browse your options here!

Basic tips for packing for Europe in the summer

Wear comfortable shoes.

You will likely do lots of walking in the summer when traveling to Europe. It is essential to invest in shoes that are both stylish and comfortable! We will list the best versatile shoes for summer in Europe below in the packing list.

Trust me here, you want to avoid dragging large luggage on the cobblestone streets in Europe, especially in the summer heat. You will thank yourself for packing light as soon as you arrive! This summer in Europe packing list will help you narrow down which items to pack and which to leave at home.

Read how to pack in only a carry-on bag here!

Be respectful of cultural standards

You may want to enter some religious establishments depending on your exact itinerary and destinations. It is important to prepare to cover your shoulders and knees when necessary and respect any clothing rules in those religious establishments.

Use packing cubes

Packing cubes are an absolute travel packing game changer, and you need them for a trip to Europe in the summer. By using packing cubes, you will be able to both fit more clothes on your packing list and also keep yourself organized. Each cube can be a drawer in your bag so you know exactly where each article of clothing is packed.

Compression Packing Cubes

Browse more of our favorite travel products here.

Take pictures of your outfits before you go

This is one of the best packing hacks for any trip. Take pictures of your different outfits and save the photos in an album on your phone. This way, when you get to Europe, you do not need to try on multiple looks before heading out! You can refer to your camera roll to decide what to wear.

A complete summer in Europe packing list

I’ll dive into more details below, but here is a quick snapshot of a Europe packing list:

• 1x jean shorts
• 1x lightweight shorts
• 1x lightweight pants
• 2x tank tops
• 2x lightweight shirts
• 1x lightweight button down
• 2x long dresses
• 1x romper or short dress

Outer layers

• 1x lightweight jacket
• 1x rain jacket

Swimwear (depending on location and itinerary)

• 1x swim cover-up
• 1x sneakers
• 1x walking sandals
• 1x dress sandals
• 1x small crossbody
• 1x beach bag

Accessories

• 1x hair scarfs

Need help choosing what pack to pack in? Here are the best bags for international travel!

Bottoms to pack for summer in Europe

The best shorts and pants to pack for summer in Europe should be staple pieces and lightweight. Jean shorts are a travel basic and will match any combination of tops that you pack. I also love to include a lightweight pair of pants or shorts because they are easy to dress up and down.

These joggers are simply the best travel pants! I wear them anytime I am traveling and they are a great comfy pair of pants when lounging on the road.

I love the idea of adding a pop of color to your European summer wardrobe with a fun pair of shorts or a skirt. These will be great to dress up for a night out or keep it casual during the day.

Show Me Your Mumu Peggy Pants

AGOLDE Parker Long Short

High Waist Cropped Chino Pants

Floral Flowy Midi Skirt

Free People Sky Rider Pants

L’Academie Comilly Shorts

Paulina Shorts

Levi’s Women’s Original Shorts

Amazon Linen Pants

Power Soft Zip Joggers

Summer tops to pack for europe.

Similar to packing pants and skirts, you want a healthy mix of neutral tops with some fun ones! Make sure that you have an outfit in mind with every top that you pack. This three-pack of shirts from Amazon has lasted me years and are so comfortable. They can be dressed up or down. The same can be said about these tank tops , you can layer them underneath everything so you still have a complete look together when you shed some layers! This knitted tank has been a Europe travel wardrobe staple for years.

Button down shirts are great for layering an outfit if it gets a little chilly at night. They can be worn as a staple shirt alone or used as a lightweight outer layer.

Solid Crew Neck Ribbed Knit Top

Rib Knit Tank Top

Waffle Button Down Shirt

4 Pack Ribbed Tank Top Set

Sweater Tank

Longline Sports Tank

3-Pack Casual Shirts

Loose Knit Sweater Tank Top

Dresses to pack for summer in europe.

Lightweight dresses are the best articles of clothing to pack for summer in Europe because they are comfortable to wear all day long and can also be dressed up for a nice dinner. You can wear these dresses with your sneakers or dressier sandals. This simple Amazon dress is very comfortable and comes in tons of colors.

You should also have some fun with the dresses you pack for Europe! Add some florals or patterned staple pieces that make you feel confident and stand out while you live your best life on your European summer vacation. This Hill House classic dress comes in so many colors and patterns to choose from. These dresses are also a good length because they cover your knees in case you are entering churches during the day.

I pack this exercise dress anytime I travel to any warm weather destination and Europe is no exception. This is the best versatile dress for travel!

Amazon Exercise Romper

Smocked Ruffle Mini Dress

Summer Flowy Maxi Dress

Summer Midi Sundress

Tie Shoulder Swing Dress

Marieka Midi Dress

Midi Sweater Tank Dress

Puff Shoulder Mini Dress

Off-Shoulder Mini Dress

Amazon Essentials Midi Summer Dress

Hill House Ellie Nap Dress

Unique Midi Dress

Santorini Dress

Short Sleeve Baby Doll Dress

The Exercise Dress

Matching sets for summer travel.

If you are still deciding which tops and bottoms to pack for a trip to Europe in the summer, consider bringing a few matching sets instead! These sets are perfect summer travel outfits because you can mix and match them with each other or add a few basic tops and bottoms to create multiple outfits. Here are a few great sets to be comfortable and stylish in the summer in Europe!

Vest Shorts Sets

Tank Top High Waist Shorts Set

Square Neck Linen Set

2 Piece Lounge Set

Lightweight Two Piece Set

Shoes to pack for summer in europe.

In all of my Europe packing lists, I talk about how cobblestone streets are not friendly when it comes to wearing platform shoes. You will be walking tons when traveling in Europe so it is essential to choose shoes that you will be comfortable walking in all day long. I wear classic white Birkenstocks when it is hot in Europe in the summer. These Tevas also come in lots of colors and can be worn day or night.

I prefer to skip the heels and bring this comfortable pair of slip on sandals when dressing up an outfit. They hardly take up any space in your bag and are comfortable enough to wear for dinner and a night out!

A comfortable pair of sneakers will also suffice and match everything on the packing list. Here is a list of the best white sneakers for travel!

Teva Original Universal Sandal

Teva Women’s Midform Sandal

Reebok Women’s Classic Sneaker

The Drop Slide Sandal

Birkenstocks

Bags to pack for summer in europe.

There’s no need to overpack the amount of bags on your trip to Europe. I recommend bringing one small day bag backpack for long days of tourism and a smaller crossbody bag when you do not need to carry around lots of items or going out at night. Make sure to also pack a waterproof bag if planning any boat days or water activities.

This crescent bag is one of the best bags to pack for a trip to Europe to use either day and night!

Universal Crescent Bag

Straw Mini Handbag

Crossbody Belt Bag

Kånken Water Resistant Backpack

What to pack for the beach in europe.

If you are traveling to any beach destinations, make sure to remember to pack any essentials that you may need for water activities.

L*Space Cover Up Dress

Large Straw Beach Bag

Roll Up Fedora Beach Hat

Polarized Round Sunglasses

Barcelona Shirt Dress

Topanga Dress

One Shoulder High Waisted Bikini

One Shoulder Cutout One Piece Swimsuit

Textured Tie String Bikini

Waterproof Dry Bag

Waterproof Fanny Pack

Microfiber Towel

What outfits to wear in europe in the summer.

Here are some ideas of what to wear in Europe in the summer! Remember to think through each of your outfits when building out your full packing list. Each article of clothing should belong with a full outfit.

Brunch & museum tour outfit

City walking tour outfit

5 Pieces Floral Hair Scarf

insta360 X3 Get-Set Kit

Beach day trip outfit

Dinner and night out outfit

14K Gold Lightweight Hoops

Morning walk outfit

Travel day outfit

adidas Relaxed Adjustable Cap

Calpak Terra 26L Laptop Backpack

Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones

Hydro Flask Water Bottle

Kindle Paperwhite

Apple AirTags

Other europe packing essentials.

iWalk Portable Charger

Tide To Go Pens

Toiletry Organizer

I hope this packing list helps you decide what to wear in Europe on your upcoming trip this summer! Be sure to tag us on social or comment if you are wearing anything we suggested because we love to see it. Happy traveling!

Additional Europe Resources

How to survive and thrive after an overnight flight, europe travel tips you need to know before you go, 10 best personal items for travel, how much does 3 months in europe cost, tips for traveling on a budget.

Hi friends! Welcome to The Jet Lag Journey.

This is an online destination that tackles difficult travel questions in order to make worldwide travel practical and accessible. Happy exploring!

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50 Europe Travel Tips: A First-Timer’s Guide to Traveling to Europe

Travel Gift Guide: 25+ Best Gifts for all Travelers in 2023

How to Quit your Job and Travel

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The Ultimate Packing List for Europe: Summer 2024

• Last Updated: April 29, 2024

Travel Bloggers and Content Creators

Hi! We’re Aly and Mike, a Canadian couple who love travelling the world. Planning our next adventure is what we live for. Read our story below.

Recently, we had the privilege of spending our honeymoon in Europe. We travelled throughout parts of Italy and Greece for a total of three weeks enjoying several European cities! We had a brilliant time taking in all the beaches, food, historic sites and sunshine. Packing for a European vacation can be quite different when comparing to other destinations. We also understand that coming up with the perfect packing list for Europe can be quite challenging at times. These are my top recommendations for your next European vacation.

Our Best Packing List for Europe

After personally experiencing it first hand, we have come up with the best packing list for europe so that you too can experience the ultimate european vacation. lets get started, choosing your luggage.

To start, Europe is all stairs, narrow alleyways and cobblestone streets; none of which are conducive to wheelie luggage. In addition to the terrain; taking trains, buses and ferries are also more challenging to navigate with wheelie luggage. It’s definitely not impossible, but it’s worth taking into consideration. (My husband had the joy of lifting my over-packed suitcase for 3 weeks when I struggled to do so).

Small Wheelie Bag

When I say small, I do mean small. Realistically, you should be able to lift the bag over your head or at least up to your waist. Now I know this doesn’t give you much space to work with, but this will dramatically improve your vacation and reduce your stress and worrying when you are moving around from place to place. It will also lessen your risk of busting a wheel on the streets as you aggressively pull it alongside you. It’s always hard choosing the best luggage, but I really like this smart luggage with expandable cup holder and charger. It’s the little things! I also recently saw this front pocket carry-on bag and it really peaked my interest. I will definitely keep this one in mind when I’m ready for an upgrade and looking for a new type of luggage. (Did you know that Dubrovnik’s historic centre in Croatia has now banned wheelie luggage? You have to check it as you enter and pay for it to be dropped off at your accommodation)

Backpack-Duffle bag combo

The first time I travelled Europe and Asia, I used a backpacking backpack (a very large, very heavy and very cumbersome backpack that often caused me to tip over backwards). While it got the job done, I’m not sure if my back was appreciative and I didn’t want to put all that stress on my body again. A proportionally sized backpack that can also be carried as a duffel bag is a fabulous option for travelling. What’s awesome about this small backpack is that the straps can be zipped up into the bottom making it easy to check the bag if you wish to do so if you’re flying. This a great 45L option or this super fun 4-way bag !

Backpack Carry-on

I bought this fabulous carry-on backpack and have really enjoyed it! Full disclosure, it did come completely bent in half so I had to flatten it out by putting a heavy tote on it for a week. However, once I packed it I haven’t have any issues it’s been the best travel backpack that I’ve owned. I didn’t think I would use the portable charger port on the side, but I actually did! I also really liked the hidden pocket on my back for my passport. This was a good buy and a great price for the functionality that it provided. What’s nice is that we also used it as a small day pack.

Personal Item

Having a personal item is a must! With all the limitations on luggage weight the airlines are implementing, having a personal item is a great way to give yourself some added capacity. Personally I love me a good fanny pack , but if you’re looking for a little more space this expandable tote bag is a great choice.

As for my husband, he’s recently purchased the DB Hugger Backpack and he loves it! It’s lightweight, water resistant, and it’s even got a laptop compartment to safely store your devices.

Clothing Choices

To continue with our Europe packing list, we decided to travel around Europe in June, so these wardrobe recommendations reflect the warmer summer months. Depending on the time of year you end up taking your European trip, and the dress code that may be required, you may want to consider making some adjustments to this ultimate packing list.

Summer Travel

The first thing to note is, if you’re planning your European travel throughout the summer months, then you’ll want to consider bringing items like tank tops, sun dresses, and couple pairs of shorts to accommodate that hot weather. You might even want to bring a light jacket for those cool summer nights. What’s important to remember is to have at least a couple pieces of clothing that cover your shoulders and knees that allow you to visit those religious sites if that’s something you want to do.

What’s amazing about about these European countries is how walkable they truly are. That being said, having comfortable shoes is a must. You’ll want a pair of travel shoes that are fitted to the right size and provide you with enough support so that after a long day of walking you aren’t feeling too sore to keep exploring.

Winter Travel

If you’re looking to plan a Europe trip in the middle of winter you’ll most likely be expecting some cold weather. That being said, you’ll want to look at things like long pants, sweaters, and even a warm coat.

Clothing Favourites

Nipple covers.

I am a big believer in ditching the bra whenever I can, especially when it’s hot and humid outside. If I can make no bra work, believe me I will! In the cases where some shape or coverage is required I use these nipple covers . They’re quite inexpensive and can be washed and reused over and over. These have been an incredible addition to my wardrobe. (They are also available in a variety of skin tones and cup sizes).

Linen Button Up

We all know that linen is a natural breathable fabric great for hot vacations. I loved having a button up for dinners as the evenings got a bit cooler or even on the beach to shield my shoulders from the sun. The button up is a classic look that can be casually left open, tied up in the front or buttoned for full coverage.

Ponytail Hat

I am adamant on protecting my skin, especially while on the beach or out hiking and touring around. As much as wearing a hat isn’t always in my aesthetic or part of my outfit, I make sure to wear one. I brought two different hats, one a full brim and the other a ponytail hat . The full brim only works if your hair is down which isn’t always too comfortable when you’re sweaty and the hair is sticking to the back of your neck. However, the full brim is adorable looking and great for protecting your ears. The ponytail hat, while more casual, is great for high and low ponytails/buns. Keeps the hair off your neck and is more versatile than a classic baseball cap.

Travel Essentials When Packing for Europe

Reef safe sunscreen.

As already mentioned, protection from the sun is crucial. I have talked about the importance of reef safe sunscreen extensively in my eco-friendly blog post , and I’ll plug it again here. I would also highly recommend wearing SPF lip balm as well.

Sound Machine

We frequently used our sound machine at night throughout our trip. It’s just enough background noise to help muffle upstairs neighbours in the morning, people partying outside, loud traffic or guests checking in late at night.

I love bringing a wide brim hat for both cute photos and sun protection. The annoying thing is bringing it around without squashing it in your bag! I finally bought a multi-pack of hat clips and they lived up to my hopes. The clip made travelling with my hat easier than carrying it or jamming it into my bag. I managed not to ruin it and get it home in one piece!

Passport holder

I also sprung for a new passport holder because mine lacked pockets and functionality. My new one is very cute, has a stretchy cord closure, room for boarding passes, always has my passport open to the photo page and a SIM card slot. (Note: we ended up buying an e-sim with Airlo instead of a physical SIM for our cell phone. You can use my code ALEX1487 and save $3 on your purchase).

Neck Pillow

I’m not here to tell you that I found a miracle neck pillow. In my opinion they simply do not exist. We aren’t designed to be sleeping upright in a tin can hurtling through the atmosphere on a long flight. I purchased the Huzi Infinity Pillow and it was pretty decent. I liked that I could contort it into some different shapes for versatility. It also rolls up pretty small and can be jammed into a bag. Lastly, it is machine washable which is a nice feature. I was still uncomfortable and barely slept on the trans-Atlantic flight, but I don’t think that’s the pillow’s fault.

Universal Adapter

A good travel adapter is perhaps your best friend while travelling. I like this universal adapter for its USB slots and portability. Please remember that this is just an adapter not a voltage converter! So don’t go using a coffee maker or blender with it.

If you’re someone who’s worried about draining your battery from all the pictures you’re about to be taking, then finding yourself a quality power bank is a good idea. The eco-friendly Champ Portable Charger is a great option if you’re looking for something small to fit in your pocket. But if you have a little more space, then the 10,000 mAh Anker Power Bank might be another good option.

Apple AirTags

We put AirTags in our check luggage for the added peace of mind so that we could track our luggage. It was one extra layer of protection in case of loss, theft etc. We purchased the Apple AirTag 4 Pack which was practical when traveling with multiple pieces of luggage.

Since no trip is ever free, it is essential to remember to bring money. Having money in easy to use denominations, in the correct currency, and in easy to use payment methods (like credit cards and debit cards) is always recommended.

Other Items to Consider

• Travel towel
• Toiletry bag
• Reusable water bottle
• and any other travel gear you might think of

The Art of Packing

After gathering all of your items, the most difficult part is always finding enough space to make it fit. I get it! Fitting it all into a travel bag just might not be that easy as you’re working with limited space. The last thing you want to do is leave something behind that you think you’ll really really need.

One of the best things invented, and a great way to make that happen is with the help of plastic bags and packing cubes. I purchased these amazing packing cubes not too long ago and absolutely LOVE them! Not only does it make packing so much easier, but it allows me to find that specific piece of clothing buried at the bottom of my bag that I’ve thought about wearing all day.

As a general rule, and the best way I found to keep my items sorted is that I pack my items into these packing cubes according to type. For example; all of my dresses into one cube, my tank tops and t-shirts into another, swimsuits into yet another, and so forth. This keeps all of my things organized and easy to find. After they’re all packed, I throw them into my wheeled suitcase and off I go.

Packing List for Europe: Best Tip

Regardless of whether you’re taking a long trip or a short trip, it’s always a great idea to ensure you pack light so that you can travel light. Of course this is all based on personal preference and you might incur some extra cost, but there are always opportunities to find a washing machine and wash any dirty laundry.

Things I wish I would’ve brought

I definitely forgot how long the flight from Canada to Italy was and I regret not buying a travel phone holder . I am well aware that this is a small issue, but for pure convenience this phone holder would’ve been a 10/10 addition. I can see how it would help with neck kinks and viewing angles.

A polaroid camera . One of the bnb’s we stayed at had a polaroid camera, and said ‘snap a shot and post it on our guest board,’ and I loved that! There’s something really fun and special having an instant memory printed in your hand that captured an exact moment on film. I think I would have gotten a ton of use out of one.

All in, we had a fabulous trip traveling these European destinations and looking back at my photos makes me extraordinarily happy. I wish you well as you prepare for your adventure. Have fun and say Ciao for me when you get there!

Aly & Mike's

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Best Hotel & Accommodation Pricing

We use Booking.com for all of our hotels and accommodations as it provides us with the cheapest rates. If you’re looking for a hotels, check out Hostelworld.

Renting a Car?

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Stay Safe with Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is always a great safety net as it protects you against medical emergencies, delays, cancellations, and theft. We always arrange for a policy before any trip to give us the peace of mind. Our preferred companies to deal with are: 

• World Nomads (for Canadians)
• Safety Wing (for anyone)

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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 .

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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.

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July 13, 2020 By Lyndsay

The Ultimate European Summer Travel Packing List

• 1.1 Essential Travel Items
• 1.2 Personal Essentials
• 1.3 Clothes
• 1.4 Accessories
• 1.6 Intimates
• 1.9 Electronics

This post may contain affiliate links! I will receive a commission, at no extra cost to you, if you purchase something recommended here.

Many of my European adventures have happened during the summer. From living in Mediterranean countries like Italy and Croatia to visiting countries all the way up to Poland in August. Although these places do not have  quite  the same weather during the same season, the average summer temperature throughout Europe ranges from about 70 degrees Fahrenheit, to into the 80 degrees Fahrenheit. 

While you absolutely can pack light with just a carry-on, depending on the length of your trip and where you plan to spend most of your time, you’ll want to pack a little bit of everything! Here’s your ultimate guide to packing for European summer travel.

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Presenting, the Ultimate European Summer Travel Packing List:

Essential travel items.

These are the items that you absolutely can’t travel without–partly because you can’t get on the plane without (most of) them!

• Driver’s License
• Cash & Credit Card
• Itinerary & Tickets
• Keys & Wallet

Personal Essentials

You’ll always need your everyday essentials. But, depending on what you prefer to use when exploring, you should have a trusty and trendy backpack or purse to carry your go-to things throughout the day. 

Not sure what kind of backpack or purse you need? I wrote an entire post dedicated to what types of travel bags and purses you should bring on a trip.

• Reusable bag
• Luggage locks
• Blanket scarf 
• Neck pillow
• Reusable water bottle

Mix and match a few different tops, shorts, and skirts, and dresses, with one or two pairs of leggings, jeans, and a jacket. Since summers in Europe are hot, you probably won’t end up wearing jeans unless it’s a chilly night.

Personally, I love summer dresses, so that takes up the bulk of my travel wardrobe, whereas I only bring one or two pairs of shorts depending on the trip.

• Shorts/Skirts
• Dresses/Rompers

Accessories

Accessories can totally transform your outfits! Since these are small, you can pack several different options. Replacing a belt or adding a scarf can alter your whole look and keep you from losing precious time going back to your accommodations to change outfits.

• Light Scarf

Read More: Last-Minute Travel Essentials You Can’t Leave Without

Next up on the European summer travel packing list–––the shoes.

Shoes are similar to accessories in that they can dress up or dress down your appearance. Even more importantly, they need to make sense for your adventure. Many European towns have beautiful cobblestone streets, which makes for an uneven walking surface. Make sure whatever shoes you decide to bring won’t hurt your feet; otherwise, you might feel the uncomfortable bump of blisters while walking around these historic cities.

Choose your shoes wisely and stick to a neutral color palette. Since sandals are the slimmest shoes, you can probably slip an extra pair or two into your suitcase, while you might only have space for one pair of bulky sneakers.

When it comes to sneakers, as long as they’re supportive, you don’t really need to bring hiking boots or running shoes with you. Unless, of course, you’re planning for a hike or can’t live without your daily runs! I’ve used my trusty Adidas for everything from walking 35,000 steps daily through historic cities, to climbing up to the top of a rocky ridge. Do what works best for you.

• Heeled sandals

Looking for a complete organizer for your trip, with an included packing list? Swipe my free, printable Travel Planner!

The necessary stuff. If you have access to a washing machine or laundry service, then you don’t need to pack as many options in this category. Otherwise, if your trip is only for a few days or you won’t be able to clean your necessities, you’re going to want enough clean options for each day of your trip. And a few extras, just in case.

• Undershorts

Read More: How To Make Every Trip To The Airport Stress-Free

Some European countries have gorgeous coastlines. Some have fantastic mountain ranges. Others have thrilling adventure activities. Or, y’know, one day you might be in Italy and spontaneously decide you’re going for a horse ride that afternoon. True story!

No matter what, if you’ll be out there being active, you want to make sure you have a few options. 

• Sports bras
• Workout tops
• Workout leggings 
• Bathing suit
• Flip flops 

This is the area you can have the most fun! While there will always be a few staple beauty items you can’t live without, this is the area I usually pack the least. Instead, I’ll pick up many of these essentials from local stores. That way, you can get to save a bit of room in your suitcase, while discovering new products that might even be better than the ones you already use.

• Haircare products
• Sanitary products

Read More: Your Guide to How to Start a Travel Blog

Electronics

Last but by no means least, your electronics. Ask yourself–how much can you unplug for your trip? Can you live without your computer for a week or two and maybe just stick with a tablet, or will you still be on the clock for work while you’re away? 

Finally, don’t forget your chargers, and be sure you have the right travel adapters for wherever you’re headed!

• Travel adapters
• High-quality binoculars

Since everyone has different tastes, I know there are some sections of this list that you’ll need to expand, and other parts that you’ll bring the bare minimum. The beautiful thing is it’s up to you! Use this as a guide and then customize it to fit your style. No matter what you bring, you’re sure to have a great time on your European adventure.

What do you include on your European summer travel packing list?

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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.

🏥 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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Packing List for Europe in Summer

Europe Packing List

Support TFG by using the links in our articles to shop. We receive a small commission (at no extra cost to you) so we can continue to create helpful free content. We earn from qualifying purchases made to the featured retailers. Thank you, we appreciate your support!

Need a packing list for Europe in the summer? We have several helpful guides to help female travelers choose the right items without overpacking. Get started with this one!

by Vanessa Yates

You’ve read about it, dreamed about it, and almost everyone you know knows someone who has done it: a Euro-trip.

After working countless extra hours, you have finally decided to take the plunge and travel Europe. It took you weeks to plan the perfect itinerary (that you changed at least 20 times) and now you are moving on to the hardest part: planning your Europe packing list for summer. I’m sure you’ve wondered,  

“How do I pack enough clothing to get me through my entire backpacking trip through Europe?”  

I, too, struggled with this the first time I backpacked. But after 5 months of traveling in Europe, I learned a lot. I hope these packing tips will help make the process a bit easier for you.

Creating an  interchangeable capsule wardrobe is the key to traveling light, which should easily fit into your backpack with the help of packing cubes to compress your clothing

Don’t forget, there are opportunities to shop in every city and town, so save space for new purchases.

Please read our Ultimate  Packing List for Europe  featuring travel outfits and travel tips for multiple countries.

Shirt  |  Tee  |  Tank  |  Top  |  Dress  |  Jeans  |  Shorts  |  Denim   Shorts  |  Raincoat  |  Sweater  |  V   neck  |  Skirt  |  Sandals  |  Slip   On  |  Satchel

PACKING LIST FOR EUROPE IN SUMMER: CLOTHING

• 2 or 3 short sleeved tops
• 1-2 long sleeved tops
• 2 tank tops (summer)
• 2 or 3 shorts/skirts (any length is fine)
• 1-2 pairs of light trousers
• 2-3 pairs of socks – I wear Toms and sandals, so socks are just for preventing bug bites
• 10 travel underwear
• 3 bras – I recommend 1 dry fit sports bra
• 1 sleepwear  – Pajamas that can double up as regular clothes

TFG recommends: J.Jill makes amazing travel pants that are functional and look sophisticated, which is perfect for Europe.

I’ve worn their  Skyler travel pants  with heels for drinks in LA, in Spain with boots for sightseeing, to play in the snow with waterproof boots in the UK, for everyday travel in Thailand with flip flops, and on hikes with trainers.

They are the ultimate multi-functional travel pant, offering form, function, and fashion (and a good cost per wear value)!

Scarf  |  Pant  |  Sneakers |  Backpack

PACKING LIST FOR EUROPE IN SUMMER: ACCESSORIES & EXTRAS

• 1 knit or light sweater – I like a button up cardigan because it can dress up and down.
• jewelry – Nothing too expensive but enough to glam up any outfit
• waterproof sandals
• cute and comfortable flats that can be worn casually/dressy
• comfortable walking shoes  – I prefer  women’s casual sneakers  as they are lightweight, comfortable, and cute. I don’t typically do a lot of rugged hiking in Europe.

Stylish trainers like Nike Free or sneakers like Superga are popular, ideally worn with a polished outfit, not workout clothing like leggings.

Bra Stash  |  Travel Guide  |  Adapter |  Backpack

PACKING LIST FOR EUROPE IN SUMMER: GEAR

• anti-theft products
• universal adapter
• music, podcasts, or audiobooks (for long journeys)
• neck pillow (Also for long journeys)
• headlamp  / flashlight
• 1-2  small locks  – To use in hostel dorms
• sink stopper – The flat ones work in all drains
• bobby pins – Great for easy travel hairstyles and as clothing line pins

Please read our top 10 hostel travel essentials when backpacking Europe!

I have used this packing list for Europe in summer every time I travel and have always been more than prepared. Anything else you need you can buy along the way. Congrats on your adventure and have fun in Europe!

What’s on your Europe packing list? Share and comment below!

Please note: Most of Europe’s budget airlines have this carryon bag allowance: 55cm x 40cm x 20cm. Always check your airline’s individual baggage rules and regulations in advance.

For more tips, please read these Europe packing lists:

Suggested travel resources:

• Travel Shoes for Europe
• The Best Carry-on Suitcases for Europe

Please read our Ultimate Packing List for Europe featuring stylish outfits and travel tips for 9 countries.

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We hope you’ve enjoyed this Europe Packing List. Please share it with your friends on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest. Thanks for reading!

Author Bio:  Vanessa Yates and her backpack and have traveled 28 countries throughout North America, Central America, Europe, Africa, and Asia. Her adventure continues in South-East Asia where she will soon begin working at a Canadian international school in Malaysia. She hopes to never stop traveling!

45 Comments

Love Travel Fashion Girl! This 2 week Europe in Summer 1 packing list was SO helpful for my daughter and I. I always check out your super helpful advice like the packing for France list as well, and you haven’t steered me wrong yet. I will pass Travel fashion girl onto all my friends and family! Thank you so much!!

Your articles eased my worries and helped me pack just a carry on for 15 days in Europe! Traveling by train from Barcelona through multiple destinations in France and Italy was much easier with minimal luggage. I had all I needed to enjoy an exceptional trip!!

I just wanted to say thank you so much! This post was a lifesaver for my two week trip to London and Paris this past summer.

Hi I am travelling to Europe in the month of Aug for 15 days covering east to west. What kind of clothing should i carry and shoes too.

Hi Savitha,

A good place to start is to take a look at TFG’s Four Signature Packing Lists for ideas for a capsule wardrobe and how many clothing items you could pack: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/functional-and-fashion-packing-list/ The packing lists show you how to pack light and have the right clothes no matter the destination or the length of the journey.

The point of our capsule wardrobes is that you use the principles behind them, not the exact clothing shown. Depending on your preferences, you can choose more bottoms, fewer dresses, more tops – you can adjust the combination based on your needs!

Then for tips to help you adapt your packing list for your trip, check out this 10 step guide which also includes links to all our European destination guides: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/10-step-packing-guide-europe/

I would also highly recommend that you join our TFG facebook group and post your question there: https://www.facebook.com/groups/travelfashiongirls/ It’s a fabulous community of helpful female travelers that love to share their travel advice and recommendations and this is a common query.

Hope this helps. Happy travels! 💜

Thank you, I’m going on a 3 week trip central and eastern Europe June and July, thank you for reminding me of some travel tips that will help me out.

Hi Joey, so pleased you found this post helpful, have an amazing trip to Europe! ?

We will be traveling to Europe in June for two weeks n what to pack

Hi Nan, thank you for reaching out! Have a look at what I packed for my trip to Europe: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/clothing-for-2-weeks-in-europe-summer/ You might also find our ultimate packing guide to Europe in the summer helpful: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/packing-for-europe-in-summer/ The weather is not that predictable, the best tip is to monitor the forecast for your specific trip dates to ensure that you have the most appropriate clothing. If you need any more packing tips, I would recommend that you join TFG’s free facebook community and post any questions you have there: https://www.facebook.com/groups/travelfashiongirls/ It is a fabulous group of helpful female travelers that have the best advice and suggestions to share. Hope this helps you with your packing. Have an amazing time! ?

Thanks so much for your packing lists! We’re going to France in early June and it looks like we’ll have a lot of rain. Are the waterproof sandals the footwear game plan for sightseeing inclimate weather? Just making sure! Again, thanks for your indispensable tips!

Hi Karen, thank you so much for your comment, so glad you like the packing lists!! You should pack the shoes which you find the most comfortable wearing, so as long as your waterproof sandals are comfy, then you should be fine. Have a look at this article about what shoes to wear in Paris: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/parisian-shoes-6-trends-for-summer-2014/ Have a fantastic trip to France! 🙂

Sure wish Anatomie and others would carry petite pants and jackets, a must for me.

Do you have a PDF or document version of your full list that I can print and use? Thank you!

Hi, I am travelling for 10 days in France, Belgium and Holland, looking at all the war memorials and sites,by car but also using bikes. It is at the back end of July into August. What would you recommend. And I’ve had a look online and it says the average temperatures range from mid 50’s to mid 70 degrees. Thank you

Hey Katie 🙂 This sounds like a really interesting trip! We have a few different articles on packing for Europe that might be helpful for you, including this France packing list http://bit.ly/290iVqU and our 10 step guide for Europe – http://bit.ly/28U5J65 ! Also as these temperatures can feel a lot colder for some people, take a look at some of our cold weather guides for help – http://bit.ly/28TJ07V ! Have a great trip and I hope you find these tips helpful 🙂

I used this list when I travelled Europe and it was super helpful! I successfully travelled carry-on only for an 8 week adventure and I was incredibly proud of myself. I love having so many great products and ideas all on one website. This is a travellers dream site, even if the fashion level is above mine, it inspires me to reach that little bit higher and reach for just a bit more adventure in my packing!

Thank you Gillian 🙂 I am so pleased you find the site useful!

Love your tips. Travelling to Paris & London early Sept for 7 weeks then Hong Kong for 4 days. Need some tips for packing light for all 3 destinations.

Hi Tiffany, first read these posts:

https://travelfashiongirl.com/10-step-packing-guides/10-step-packing-guide-for-paris/ https://travelfashiongirl.com/what-to-pack-for-london-on-your-trip-to-the-united-kingdom/ https://travelfashiongirl.com/what-to-wear-in-hong-kong/

Then apply your clothing research by using this packing strategy: https://travelfashiongirl.com/10-step-packing-guides/10-step-guide-to-packing-for-different-climates/

Have a wonderful trip 🙂

I don’t know how I found your blog but it’s amazing. I will go to europe in June until September and I’m going to stay in Switzerland. You rocks \m/ Maybe I will do sone trips around but now I have an idea to what to pack. Thanks!

Hi Alex, I am still looking for a packing list for Norway for July. Thanks, Cassie

Hi Cassie, I’m still looking for someone to make it for you

Hi! A lot of people are telling me a definite no on the shorts. I keep hearing different things so I’m unsure what to do. I’m going to Italy (Rome and Florence), London, Paris, and Germany in May and I know it’s going to be warmer in some places. It’s a month trip with probably no stops for laundry so I’m trying to pack light and easy to wash. So any advice on any of that would be awesome! Thanks!

Hi Katie, here is some insight on whether or not to wear shorts in Europe: https://travelfashiongirl.com/should-you-wear-shorts-in-paris-ever/ I think when people say no shorts they mean no outdoor-type shorts like knee length cargo shorts. Planning what to wear to Europe is more about how you style something versus the actual clothing item. Here are more tips: https://travelfashiongirl.com/10-step-packing-guides/10-step-packing-guide-europe/

This post was so super helpful! Cant wait to pack for my next trip!

Thanks Morgan 🙂

Great article! Do you know what brand trousers those are? I’m on the hunt for comfy/stylish pants for my trip to Germany/Switzerland/Prague :).

Thanks! They’re Lala Classic Chino Pant Rp8 from Only.com

Hi, i’m from Romania (Europe) and I’m going to Grand Canyon South Rim for 3 months to work, and 2 weeks in California and New York to party. Unfortunatelly I only have a 23 kg suitcase allowance and I really don’t know where to start. I will travel with my boyfriend and I guess I’ll put some of my stuff in his suitcase 😀 but still…there are sooo many clothes I want to take with me. Ps…i’m leaving in a week

Hi Lori! What time of year are you traveling?

shirt: farfetch.com/shopping/women/cats-by-tsumori-chisato-striped-t-shirt-item-10246801.aspx shorts: nelly.com/uk/womens-fashion/clothing/trousers-shorts/estradeur-1043/roma-shorts-104324-14/?utm_source=affwin&utm_medium=cpo&utm_campaign=affwin_92295 and aliceandolivia.com/

Hiya, I’m going to Turkey for 3 months in 5 weeks and even though I’ll be staying in my own apartment I only have a 20kg suitcase allowance and a carry on suitcase crammed full of stuff (unlimited weight) Looking at what you have recommended I’m starting to think ill over pack! I have at least 10 bikinis and 8 pairs of denim shorts alone as well as about 12 pairs of sandals/flip flops. Not to mention I still have to pack towels, toiletries and loads more clothes! Whoops. Any advice on what to cut down or cut out? Hopefully it will about 30+ degrees everyday so there’s no need for an umbrella or coat etc. Also I don’t have a washing machine so the majority of things will be hand washed but there is lots of laundrettes nearby i could use should I feel the need. Ronni x

Hi Ronni, sounds like you have quite the packing list going on. I think you should start here: https://travelfashiongirl.com/maximista-packing-list-spring-2013/ and also sign up to download my free packing e-book.

Do you really need those quantities? You can create countless outfits by choosing the right clothing. You can rotate 2-3 pairs of denim shorts. At the very most I would recommend to choose 5 pairs of shoes that match best with your clothing.

Check out how I made 3 weeks worth of clothing with just 8 clothing items here: https://travelfashiongirl.com/fsjet-22-days-8-countries-8-clothing-items/

It sounds like you’re quite the fashionista so focus on your accessories to make your outfits.

As for toiletries, you can buy what you need there and just pack the essentials such as special products you can’t live without for 3 months.

Also, you should really consider packing cubes to help maximize your limited space: https://travelfashiongirl.com/packing-cubes-video-tutorial-learn-how-to-pack-light/

Hope this helps! Have a great trip!

HI, I am going to Germany, Poland and Amsterdam this summer for 2 weeks. Mostly going to Holocaust sites and the Anne Frank House. Any packing/clothing suggestions>

Hi Cassie, stay tuned. Many Europe packing lists coming in May 🙂

This is a great site, and a fantastic packing list!

What changes or additions would you make for a 2 week honeymoon with Paris, Venice and Munich as the main destinations? We are going in September.

Thanks Amie! Stay tuned for Europe packing lists in May 🙂

Hi! I’m going to be spending around 3 months in Europe and am severely struggling with luggage… On that note, what luggage do you recommend? I know for sure I want a backpack but I don’t want to scream “tourist.” Also, do most backpackers carry their luggage around with them everywhere? Or are there places to lock up your things?

Sorry if these questions are basic! Really need advice tho! :\

Thanks for your message!

For Europe, 100% backpack! I brought a suitcase with me on my first 2 trips and it was just a nightmare running up and down the train or underground stations with a heavy suitcase. Plus, the hotels we stayed at in Italy had a million flights of tiny stairs so that wasn’t very fun at all.

With that being said, pack light! I like Osprey bags like the Farpoint 55 because it’s a nice looking quality bag that works: https://travelfashiongirl.com/the-travel-gear-i-cant-live-without/

Usually, you can leave your backpack in your hostel dorm. While some places do have lockers for your bag, many don’t but they do offer services to store your valuables in either individual safes or with reception. out of the 5 years I’ve been on the road, I’ve only had something taken out of my bag once while traveling so it’s not a common occurrence, plus it was really my fault for leaving cash in my unlocked Aura 65 bag. The bag that I now use Farpoint 55 has lockable zippers which actually did prevent a theft this year so highly recommend it.

I’ll be releasing a new Europe packing List soon. Send me an email with your countries so I can have your itinerary in mind when I put it together 🙂 travelfashiongirl at gmail dot com

Thank you! This is so helpful for my 5 day (I know it’s short) to England and Germany!

Thank you Mollie!

You might also like this new packing list specifically for budget airline travel in Europe https://travelfashiongirl.com/how-to-pack-for-europes-budget-airlines/

Hope you have a great trip!

This is a great list as we’re leaving for Eastern Europe in a week. So how much more do you pack for a Europe in Winter?

Layers layers layers. Since you don’t sweat as you would in the heat, maybe yo maximize your warmth layers and reuse them so you dont need to change every singe day…

If you’re not trekking, then just one pair of comfy trainer/going out shoes and one flip flops for hostels?

A coat that you wear on the flight and you wear every single will probably never have to go inside your bag so that shouldn’t take room…

Maybe you two will share some of your packing insights when you get back? 🙂 How long are you gone for?

Thanks! I was worried about shoes too since I don’t have any ‘waterproof’ shoes. I was hoping my regular sneakers would be fine. We’re gone for 5 weeks. Eastern Europe and NYC! =)

That’s awesome! Just avoid wearing fabrics and colors that would get ruined liked white colors or suede fabrics. Leather is a good option. Any footwear you’d wear outdoors in the winter in Northern California would probably work too 🙂

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The Ultimate Europe Packing List – Printable and Editable

Many say that packing is the most dreaded part of traveling. As you probably know, packing for a trip to Europe is different from traveling in your home country – you have to think about the extra documents, flight regulations, different climates, and the way of transportation. To help you keep everything in order, I created this smart, editable, and printable European Packing List that is easy to use. Read on to find out all of the tips and tricks along the way!

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I may earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.  

Packing for Europe – Tips and Tricks

Check Visa Regulations and the Documents You Need

Are you going on a study abroad trip to Europe? Or are you going there for a vacation? How long are you planning to stay? This will determine whether or not you will need to apply for a visa. If you are an American citizen and you are planning a short vacation to Europe, you may be in the clear – depending on the country you’re visiting, all you will need is your passport. But, if you have any questions or doubts, better check with the consulate website of the country you are going to – better be safe than sorry.

Leave Some Space in Your Suitcase for Souvenirs

Pack the things you will absolutely need, you will want to buy some things on your trip. I try to buy something unusual and special in each country I go to. Try to avoid magnets and key chains – that’s one of the main travel mistakes I mention in my guide. Look for something you will actually use.

Be Aware of Pickpockets

In most European countries, especially bigger cities like Rome, Barcelona, or London, you may be a target of pickpockets. But, it doesn’t mean that the city is dangerous. Always be aware of your belongings and don’t show your expensive camera, phone, or wallet unless you absolutely need to. Keep your money in several different places in case something does end up stolen. Check out this  Money belt , neck wallet , or Bra Stash to keep your valuables close to your body and away from pickpockets.

Know What You Can and Can’t Pack

Planning ahead will ease your travel experience at the airport. Know what you can pack in your carry-on and checked bags by reviewing this TSA page . A good rule to go by is to pack all of your liquids in your checked bag and all of your valuables in the carry-on. For more carry-on and packing, see the Europe Packing List below!

Bring all the Travel Essentials

Some things you can do without, others, not so much. I always pack the items below in my suitcase and so should you!

• Good Headphones : Bring a pair of headphones, I always use them on long layovers and on flights, they cancel out the noise and are super comfortable. If I’m traveling with someone, I also grab a headphone jack splitter so that I can watch Netflix together with my travel companion. 
• Daypack or large purse : You’ll need something to carry your phone, camera, and water while you’re out exploring. Here is the one I love , big enough and can be converted into a backpack.
• Air Tags :  I keep air tags in my wallet, keys, and suitcase. That way, I always know the location of my belongings when I travel.
• Travel Adapter : If you are traveling to Europe, you need a reliable travel adapter, one that won’t burn your expensive electronics at first use. This travel adapter can be used in the USA, Europe, the United Kingdom, and Australia, so you won’t have to buy a separate adapter for every adventure.
• Band-aids and blister cushions : No matter how comfortable my shoes are, I ALWAYS end up needing to use band-aids. Make sure to pack these – you’ll thank me later.
• SPF Cream : Grab an SPF moisturizer – and don’t forget to put on sunscreen!
• Water Bottle : Airports, trains, hotels – I always take a water bottle with me. It’s good for the environment, it reminds me to drink more, and water actually costs money in European restaurants and cafes. Get one on Amazon and always take it with you!

Common question: How to Maximize Space in My Luggage?

To maximize space in your luggage, I usually roll my clothes instead of folding them. This saves space and helps prevent wrinkles. Additionally, using compression bags or packing cubes can help organize and compress your clothes, allowing you to fit more items into your luggage. If you’re really tight on space, try packing versatile clothing items that can be mixed and matched to create multiple outfits, reducing the number of garments you need to pack. Finally, make use of any empty spaces within your luggage, such as stuffing socks or underwear inside your shoes, to optimize every inch of space.

How to Pack for a Trip to Europe

Let’s start with the basics – choosing the right type of luggage. That depends on the length of the trip and how many places you are traveling to.

When I go to Europe, I travel for more than a month and usually take one suitcase, a backpack, and a purse (which goes inside the backpack during flights).

I prefer a large soft-shell suitcase with 4 wheels as it’s the easiest to carry and fits more with less weight. Hard-shell suitcases seem to have less space, be heavier, and crack very easily.

I also take this travel backpack for my computer, camera, phone, and documents. You can have them as carry-ons for the flight (usually for free). I also usually pack one day of clothing in case my checked-in luggage gets lost. I prefer spacious backpacks with a lot of pockets to store everything.

A travel purse , big enough for your camera and money is great to use as a daypack when you are exploring. It will also be more comfortable than a backpack – you won’t look as much as a tourist.

Whichever you end up choosing, make sure it will fit your Europe Packing List for the time of your travels. Some other tips – choose a unique color that will stand out from all the black bags. It will be easier to notice and it will decrease the chance of someone taking it.

What to Wear on the Long Flight

With multiple layovers and a long time on the plane, always dress comfortably. Wear jeans and a warm shirt. Also, wear the heaviest shoes you are taking, I usually have tennis shoes or winter boots (depending on the season). That way you will have less to carry and more space in your suitcase.

Ultimate Europe Packing List – Access it HERE

What to pack in the carry-on.

• Any Other Valuables or Expensive Items
• About $200 of cash in local currency – you might need cash for a train ticket from the airport and in case the airport exchange rate is especially horrible.
• Personal ID/Student ID card – If you’re a student, some companies offer discount cards to help you save when you are traveling
• Frequent flyer cards and other loyalty program cards
• Cash and debit/credit cards – Call your bank before you travel to inform them (otherwise they might freeze your account)
• International driving permit
• Travel and health insurance documents
• Reservations and itineraries
• Water Bottle – a water bottle is a must when you travel, see the water bottle I recommend above.
• Daily Medications – even when you are traveling, stay on top of your daily medications and have some extras in case of emergency. This year I took melatonin which helped me sleep on the plane and get over jet lag in one day!
• Underwear and One Day of Clothes – great to have in case your checked bag arrives late or is lost.
• Face Wipes – always nice to freshen up when you travel!
• A pen (always grab a pen when you travel, you may need one if you have to fill out customs forms)
• Chapstick and lotion (the air is always so dry in-flights, you’ll be glad you had it!)
• A good snack – as long as it’s wrapped and isn’t liquid, it can go through security in your carry-on. It’s cheaper and better than buying a snack at the airport or in-flight. I take nuts, a protein bar, and Trail Butter , my newest find – it’s 750 calories in one serving and the coffee and dark chocolate flavor is addicting!

Travel Tip: How to manage jet lag?

Managing jet lag during flights to Europe is always a challenge. Normally, it helps to adjust to a new time zone if I’m able to sleep on the plane. To fall asleep on the plane easier, I usually book overnight flights and pack Melatonin , a sleeping mask , and a travel pillow . I also try to stay hydrated before and during the flight and avoid alcohol and caffeine consumption. Once I get to the destination, I drink coffee and have a good breakfast. After, I found it really helpful to take a shower and try to stay out exploring the new place for as long as possible before going to sleep.

Clothes to Pack in the Suitcase for a Trip to Europe

Clothing Tip #1: See the extended weather forecast for your destinations on Accuweather.com .

Check it a couple of days before you leave, too. Your clothing will depend on the season, the weather, your destination, and the length of your stay. Generally, pack a couple of pants and several shirts to match. Also, grab a couple of dresses and comfortable walking shoes. You should be set to go!

Clothing Tip #2: Bring comfortable shoes.

Tennis shoes or loafers like this with thick soles will allow you to stay comfortable on cobblestone roads.

Clothing Tip #3: Take some special occasion clothing options.

If you are planning on visiting churches, grab a headscarf you might need to enter. If you are going to a Viennese opera, bring a nice outfit and shoes to wear. Think about the experiences you would enjoy and pack accordingly.

What to Wear – Europe Packing List

• Lightweight clothing that can be layered
• Long-sleeved shirts
• 1 Sweater or jacket (depending on the weather)
• Pants and/or shorts (depending on the season)
• Dresses and/or skirts (depending on the length of stay)
• Walking shoes
• Scarf (in case you visit a church or get cold)
• Rain jacket or umbrella

Toiletry Bag Checklist

If you’re flying, make sure to put your toiletry bag in your checked luggage. You can only bring liquids, gels, aerosols, creams, and pastes of 3.4 ounces (100ml) or less per container in your carry-on. If you do, put them in a clear, plastic, ziplock bag.

Instead, take a hanging toiletry bag on your trip – it will help you keep all of your toiletries organized and it’s so easy to pack up and go. If you are planning to invest in something new for your vacation, this toiletry bag is life-changing!

Pack these essentials in your toiletry bag:

• Toothbrush, toothpaste, floss
• Hairbrush, hair ties, and bobby pins
• Conditioner (could be provided in the hotel)
• Sunscreen and face lotion with SPF
• Face wash and/or makeup remover wipes and Q-tips
• Personal hygiene items
• Contacts and solution
• Prescription medicine with the label
• Cologne/perfume
• Personal mini mirror
• Hair products
• Nail clippers and tweezers (also in checked luggage)

Travel First Aid Kit

• First aid kit (bandages, gauze, adhesives, etc.)
• Cold medicines and throat lozenges
• Diarrhea/laxative medicines
• Allergy medicines
• Hydrocortisone cream/antibacterial ointment
• Sunburn relief
• Insect repellent
• Motion sickness pills or bands

What Not to Pack for a Trip to Europe

Here is a list of items you shouldn’t take with you, they will just weigh you down:

• Too many electronics
• Too many clothes – you might want to get something while you are there
• Hair straighteners, blow dryers and other small electronics – they will burn out because of the power differences
• New Shoes – bring your most comfortable shoes, you’ll be doing a lot of walking
• Towels – hotels and hostels usually provide them
• Too much cash
• Expensive jewelry

I recommend taking as little as you can – go through your packing list and take out everything you can live without for a couple of weeks. I included a laptop just in case you need it for school or work, otherwise, keep it at home as well!

Overpacking is one of the Common Travel Mistakes we all make. Keep them in mind!

Access This Free & Smart Printable Europe Packing List

Get this free smart, printable, and editable European Packing List ! You will be able to change the days of stay on your trip and it will tell you exactly what you need to pack for your trip!  

Ready to go? Here is your last-minute checklist:

• Double-check that your passports and IDs aren’t expired.
• Inform your bank about the countries you are visiting so they don’t freeze your credit card.
• Email yourself a copy of your passport, driver’s license, medical cards, and itinerary, so that you always have it handy.
• To prevent pick-pocketing and stay safe, keep your valuables underneath your clothing. 
• Save this Printable Europe Packing List to refer to as you are packing.

Traveling to Europe – More Tips and Hacks

The best thing about traveling in Europe is how easy it is to travel from one country to another, going from one unique culture to the next. Once you get there, you can go by plane, train, bus or car and within a few hours you can reach your destination. Here are a few tips for your upcoming trip to save money and enjoy your stay! Do you want to know my secrets about how I travel abroad every year while working full-time? Read my tips on how to travel more and how to travel on a budget !

Use Buses and Trains Between Destinations

Each European country has very easy-to-use and fast bus and train systems. They are usually pretty cheap and you can use them to go on day trips from one place to another without spending your entire day in the airport.

On my latest trip to Europe, I took Flixbus from Prague to Vienna to Budapest. It’s very affordable and easy to hop on and hop off in a new destination.

Save Money by Avoiding Taxis

Don’t even take a taxi from the airport. Most airports have a cheaper way to get from the airport to the city center. Last time, we got from the airport to our hotel in Barcelona for 1 Euro on a train! It would have been over 30 euros if we took a taxi! Do some research about the city you are going to and buy passes. It will save you money while you are using public transport!

One other pro to using public transport in a new country is a new adventure and seeing the way locals commute there. I love comparing public transport in different countries and no one can compete with Europe on that.

Be Picky About the Place You Eat

Millions of tourists visit Europe every year and restaurants have found the best ways to make money on it. There are high chances of falling into a tourist trap if you don’t do research on places to eat in each destination. Use platforms like Likealocal.com or just Google reviews before you decide to eat somewhere. This tip will save you a lot of money and add great food experiences to your trip.

Travel in the Off-Season

Traveling during the off-season is the only way to avoid crowds and save money on tickets and hotels. While most places are open year-round, they are usually booked in the summer. If at all possible, go for a month before everyone else arrives or choose less touristy destinations.

Bring Comfortable Shoes to Walk Everywhere

I’ve mentioned this before and will say again: you will be glad you have comfortable walking shoes. Bring your favorite pair – you won’t regret it.

Don’t Plan on Using Credit Cards Everywhere

Bring a couple hundred euros on hand for tips, public transport, and purchases at local markets.

Order foreign currency at your bank, don’t use the currency exchange at the airport upon arrival. Airport ATMs don’t always have the best exchange rates, so plan ahead if you like to save.

See more of my Europe Travel Tips to enjoy, save money, and stay safe!

Do you have any packing tips let me know in the comments below. .

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21 Comments

This is a really good informative article! Me and my partner were in Europe (Rome) last year, we knew about being aware of pick pockets and held onto our belongings like mad haha! Thanks for the post.

So true about the cargo shorts and clothing style! Thanks for the great list too!

These are great tips. I also like to consolidate my European travel packing. I’d add that think of dressing well. Europeans tend to dress up more than Americans, so think of wool pants/skirts, dresses, dress jackets, etc. if you want to blend in.

Also that toiletry bag looks amazing!!

Wow this is so detailed, I absolutely LOVE IT! I seriously will send this to all of my friends who need help packing for their summer Europe trips!

Hahaha, I love how every travel to Europe guide somehow thinks that European’s don’t wear t-shirts. Honestly, we do so most days. Just leave the football shirts at home. A simple black or white t-shirt will however not make you stick out. I totally agree with you though on the credit card. Many small businesses and restaurants in Europe don’t accept cards. As for picking a restaurant, the same rule applies as everywhere else. If they need to pay a person to invite people in: run for your life!

You’re right! About clothing: after living in the United States I can notice the difference in style right away! Thanks for the comment!!

Very detailed insights! I think most of these apply to other destinations as well; thus, really helpful! Thank you for sharing it.

Oh my goodness this is such a great article especially if you are like me and have never been to Europe….this not only makes me want to go but would feel totally confident doing so simply by arming myself with your article! So much amazing information in one spot and I wouldn’t have even thought about dress like they dress so you don’t stand out! Thank you for sharing your wisdom with us and maybe one day I’ll have the pleasure of going!!

Very thorough and practical. I love this with the printable included. Greta advice on how not to stand out, and caps tend to be part of my daily uniform:). I will leave them at home.

I wished I read this before my study abroad trip in Spain! These are great tips and I recommend following most/all of them. Can’t wait to read some more!

Thank you! I wish I had known some of these before the trip, too!

Really great article! Love how detailed everything was. You put a lot of time and great info into this and it shows!

Thank you so much, I really appreciate your support!

I really admire your writing!

This post was so helpful and full of information. I really enjoyed the fact that you used your hands on experience to give all these tips. I will be traveling to Europe in January and will definitely be using this list.

Great list! The best advice is to not travel with new shoes. There’s too much walking done to deal with blisters caused by new shoes.

This is such an amazing list and I’m so glad you made it such an easy printable!! Saving this post for later!

I always keep this tip in mind: “Leave Some Space in Your Suitcase for Souvenirs” because I am a shopper at heart. This post was amazing!

I am closing in on retirement and plan to travel more. This is excellent advice that I will be able to put to use next year!

I love your extensive list. I never traveled on a long trip but have family members who are planning a trip to Europe. This will be an awesome resource for them. Thanks for sharing.

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Packing for Summer in Europe: Ultimate Female Packing List

Last Updated: February 16, 2022

*FYI - this post may contain affiliate links, which means we earn a commission at no extra cost to you if you purchase from them. Also, as an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Check out our Privacy Policy and Disclosure. for more info.

Packing for summer in Europe is a daunting task.

After all, if you’re like me, you want to look dayum good while eating your 10th croissant, or at least semi-blend in with the hordes of attractive and stylish locals.

But it’s not easy knowing what to bring! Europe is a big, diverse continent with ever-changing weather conditions.

Luckily, I’ve travelled extensively around Europe in the past 3 summers, so have a pretty good idea of what you need and what you don’t.

Here’s my packing guide below, with tips/suggestions that will make packing as stress-free as possible… after all, your mental energy should be spent on planning where to eat,  not  on what goes inside your suitcase.

NOTE: Of course, you should only take this as a base for your packing list! Be sure to tailor the specifics to your itinerary, style preferences and weather.

Save this post for later on Pinterest:

Must-haves that will make your summer in Europe 1000x easier

• Packing cubes – These are seriously my favourite thing ever. They do wonders for helping you stay organized, and can compress all your clothes neatly so that you can fit more in your bag!
• Refillable bottles – SUCH a good investment. Buying miniature toiletry bottles is such a pain. Buy one of these and you’ll have travel-ready shampoo, conditioner, etc. ready instantly! Click here to read my full guide on the best travel size bottles you can buy online.
• Clear bag for carry-on liquids – You need these for getting any of your liquids/toiletries past airport security, and a durable bag is an awesome investment that will save you from countless dinky Ziploc bags. Click here to read my full guide on the best travel toiletry bags you can buy online.
• Travel towel – Even if you plan on staying at hotels where towels are provided, having a small, absorbent travel towel is great for the beach, impromptu picnics, or even soaking up random spills. This one is my favourite. This one is my favourite. I swear by it!
• Universal adaptor – Never stress about whether or not you have the right adaptor! Having a universal one will mean you can just pack it every time you travel, regardless of where you’re going. One less thing to worry about.
• Luggage locks – One of the downsides of travelling Europe during summer (peak season) is that you’re vulnerable to pickpockets! I recommend buying a pack of three small luggage locks to bring with you so that you can protect your goods while in transit, or perhaps in a hostel/hotel room where there’s no secure place to keep your belongings. Here’s a really affordable pack you can get online.

Packing for summer in Europe: the simple breakdown of what to pack

Here’s a quick clothing/accessories packing list for you! To see a more detailed explanation, scroll down.

1-2 long sleeve tops 3-4 tank tops/short sleeve tops 2-3 dresses 1-2 pairs of pants (trousers) 1-2 skirts or shorts (1 longer, past the knee) 1-2 cardigans 1 jacket/coat 7-8 pairs of underwear 1-2 bras (1 strapless!) 2-3 pairs of socks 1-2 pairs comfortable walking shoes 1 swimsuit 1 pair of yogapants/comfy pants (that can double as active wear) 1 comfy top for sleeping

Accessories

Sunglasses 1-2 statement necklaces 1 scarf 1 daybag (purse or backpack)

Where to buy clothing for a summer in Europe

Before I get into the nitty gritty of what exact items to pack, I thought it would be helpful to give you a list of online shops where you can buy lots of nice, affordable clothing that are perfect for a summer in Europe.

These shops have lots of cute, stylish clothes for affordable prices (which means you won’t feel bad tossing them around/crumpling them in suitcases). They also have a lot of clothing with non-wrinkly materials, which is of course preferable. Here are some of my recommendations:

Dynamite:  My go-to store when I’m home in Canada. The perfect compromise between style and price (and a lot of their stuff is resistant to wrinkles!)

Mango:  My favourite store when I’m in Europe. Lots of beautiful styles to choose from (and not horrifically expensive either)

ASOS: Shipping is super fast, they’re constantly having sales, the styles are really cute and they have a lot of super easy ways to return the goods for free if you don’t like them. WARNING: A very dangerous site for your willpower 😉

What clothing to pack for a summer in Europe

1-2 long sleeve tops.

Odds are the temperatures will be warm enough that you won’t need too many long sleeve tops, but I always bring one just in case a chilly day arises.

I’d recommend bringing a nice one that can also work for going out, because obviously at night the temperatures tend to dip, so you might want something warmer.

3-4 tank tops/short sleeve tops

Ideally these will be made from fabrics that don’t wrinkle easily. I like to make sure all my tops match all my bottoms (which maximizes the number of outfits I can make!)

I’d also stick to darker shades, especially if you’re travelling for a while, as you want something that can hold up to adventures (and messy eating!)

2-3 dresses

Dresses are my favourite when travelling, because they’re low-maintenance yet can instantly make you look like you tried!

I’d recommend packing at least one that transitions easily from day to night (e.g. an LBD), and one that’s longer in length.

I personally love solid-coloured basic dresses because they’re so versatile. Here’s one that’s very similar to my go-to.

1-2 pairs of pants (trousers)

Europe in the summer can get HOT, so I don’t find myself wearing long pants often. I find one pair (usually jeans) will suffice for the days it’s too cold or for night time adventures.

1-2 skirts or shorts (1 longer, past the knee)

Having bottoms that go past the knee are essential in Europe, because some stricter churches won’t let you in unless your shoulders (and sometimes legs) are covered.

I like to bring bottoms that match all my tops – that way I get more choices in terms of outfits.

1-2 cardigans/cover-ups

You might think this is librarian-esque, but I way prefer a nice cardigan to a hoodie or sweatshirt because of its versatility.

You can layer it over a top or dress and still look decent, plus they’re light enough to carry in your bag (or tied around it) ‘just in case’.

Again, aim for something that matches the majority of your clothes (neutrals work best!)

1 jacket/coat

Remember to double check that this jacket matches the majority of your clothing items (length wise and colour wise!).

You won’t need to bring more than one, especially because they’re so bulky and you’ll realistically only need them at night/on the off cold day.

I like to bring something a little dressier (e.g. not a bulky parka or athletic windbreaker) because you can then use it as an instant class-up for fancy occasions, and you can wear it ‘out’ for bars/clubs or wherever your adventures take you.

7-8 pairs of underwear

You could honestly get away with less if you’re okay with doing laundry on the road, but 7-8 is a nice number so that you only need to take care of laundry once a week!

A friend of mine also recommends packing panty liners so that you can just use those/not have to switch underwear as often… but that’s not for everybody!

I always stalk  Victoria’s Secret  and wait for one of their sales, which they have constantly! Then I stock up.

1-2 bras (1 strapless!)

I highly recommend one of them being strapless (or at least convertible) because odds are, your tops will have varying straps, and with the hot summer sun, the last thing you want is weirdo strappy tan lines all over the place.

Again, stalk sales on  Victoria’s Secret  and maybe get yourself one of those convertible bras (which are perfect for trips like this where you want to pack light but also avoid getting ridiculous tan lines).

1-2 pairs comfortable walking shoes

Unless you plan on doing physical activity like hikes, running shoes aren’t necessary. My go-to is a comfortable pair of sandals and/or some nice canvas shoes.

The key is to bring shoes that match all your outfits. If you want to pack light, don’t worry about bringing heels or anything for going out, just bring sandals that are nice enough that you can get away with wearing them out for a few drinks (or ten).

My sandals from  Clarks  are still the comfiest I’ve ever worn and they’ve been with me on a series of misadventures, from awkward bike rides to accidental mountain climbs and hikes. I can vouch for their comfort!

I can’t find my exact pair online anymore, but  here are some similar ones.

2-3 pairs of socks

This depends on what shoes you bring, but during the summer, you’ll likely be rocking sandals or other shoes that don’t require socks. In such cases, 2-3 pairs would be more than enough.

Unless you’re doing a sailing trip or plan on spending a lot of time at the beach, 1 swimsuit will be more than enough.

1 pair of yogapants/comfy pants

A smart trick is to pack pyjamas that can also double for a second purpose if absolutely needed. If you don’t plan on doing a lot of physical activity (e.g. hiking), you can get away with one pair of yoga/activewear pants as pyjamas, then use them on the off-chance that you need to get physical.

I recommend you just get a good quality pair from  Nike  or something and call it a day. Saves you more in the long run!

1 comfy top for sleeping

Again, pack something that’s loose and comfortable, but something that you wouldn’t mind wearing out in public.

That way, if you need something comfortable in a pinch (e.g. for a long commute day), then you have something to wear.

I hope you found this summer in Europe packing list helpful!

Let me know in the comments if you have any more questions.

My Go-To Travel Favourites:

🧳 Eagle Creek: My favourite packing cubes

💳 Wise: For FREE travel friendly credit cards

🍯 Airalo: My go-to eSIM

🏨 Booking.com: For searching hotels

📷 Sony A7IV: My (amazing) camera

✈️ Google Flights : For finding flight deals

🌎 WorldNomads: For travel insurance

🎉 GetYourGuide: For booking activities

7 thoughts on “Packing for Summer in Europe: Ultimate Female Packing List”

This is awesome! I love your picks and choices! Europe is such a beautiful continent to explore, especially during Summer!

I hope you have a wonderful start to your week, Michael

Your list is spot on! Like you, packing cubes are essential for me. They really help me organise my luggage! – Charmaine Ng | Architecture & Lifestyle Blog https://charmainenyw.com

I’m a chronic overpacker and with kids as well I tend to take along way too many clothes ‘just in case’. I’ll try to limit my wardrobe a little more for next time. Thank you for the inspo, love the blouse over white short shorts number.

Ahh I can imagine it’s hard to pack light when there’s kiddos in the mix! Glad you liked this post though 🙂 happy packing!

Hi, Thank you so much for the useful tips for packing.. I was confused but your guidelines helped me a lot.. Thank you.Love Varsharani Agare

Nice article! You are sharing great tips for packing. I found this article very helpful for me. Thanks and keep sharing.

Thanks for reading!

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The Backpacker Network

Travel Essentials for Europe – Packing List for Backpacking!

Choosing what to pack for Europe can make or break your trip. Pack too much and you’ll be frustrated dragging around stuff you never use. But if your packing list is too short, you may find yourself spending a ton of money on things you could’ve just brought from home! 

So, if you’re tired of working out exactly what should be in your backpack, we’ve got you. This list of travel essentials for Europe will help guide you on your next trip! 

Read More: (Links open in a new tab)

• Europe Backpacking Routes
• Top Backpacking Destinations in Europe
• Backpacks for Europe

Ultimate Packing List for Europe

Luggage for europe, backpack or suitcase.

Before planning what to take to Europe, you need to work out how you’re going to take it. While we here at Europe Backpacker are big fans of travelling with a backpack , the suitcase vs backpack debate is always whispering away in the background. 

Outside historic centres, streets in Europe tend to be smooth and there aren’t that many locations that involve getting too far off the beaten track to reach your accommodation – so suitcases are more than suitable for most trips. However, if you’re travelling for more than a couple of weeks – or plan on moving between locations a few times – backpacks tend to be easier.

For light-packing travellers, a 40-litre backpack is ideal. They can usually be taken as carry-on bags and due to their smaller size, are easy to take on public transport in Europe. But if you like more home comforts as you travel, you’ll want something bigger. At the end of the day, choosing the right size backpack is personal preference, don’t let anyone decide for you!

Osprey Farpoint/Fairview 40

Osprey's 40-litre Farpoint (men's) and Fairview (women's) are the best-performing travel backpacks for Europe. They're spacious, comfortable and easy to get your gear in and out of!

Some travellers to Europe will opt for a duffel bag . Sitting somewhere between backpacks and suitcases, duffel bags are easy to pack and manoeuvre but aren’t as comfortable as backpacks and are harder to transport across long distances than suitcases – especially if they’re heavy!

Regardless of what we think the best luggage for Europe is, if you strongly prefer one option over another, go with that! 

Packing Cubes

It doesn’t matter which luggage option you pick, you’re likely to want some semblance of organisation within it. Packing cubes to the rescue! They allow you to keep your stuff organised and easy to find in your bag. They make packing easier and some can even compress soft items like clothing, to maximise space within your luggage! 

Whether you use a backpack, duffel bag or suitcase, include a daypack in your packing list for Europe! Daypacks allow you to carry your day-to-day essentials as you explore your new surroundings! 

Stubble & Co The Roll Top

Stubble & Co's Roll Top makes an excellent daypack for travel in Europe! It's durable, comfortable to wear and can hold plenty of stuff for your day-to-day explorations! 

If you’re tight on space or don’t want to carry an extra backpack on the plane, consider a packable daypack . These pack down super small and can be stuffed into your main luggage until you need them! 

Clothes to Bring to Europe

• Jacket – Unless you’re travelling to Southern Europe in the middle of summer, a travel jacket is a great idea for any European packing list. They’re lightweight, don’t take up much room and will keep you warm on chilly evenings or cool days. 
• Rain Jacket – No matter when you choose to visit Europe, bring a packable rain jacket just in case. You never know when a freak downpour could catch you out. Plus, rain jackets offer excellent wind protection if it’s a bit too breezy for you! 

• Jumper – Even if you travel during summer, a thin, lightweight jumper will offer insulation on cool days. If you’re travelling Europe in the winter , you’ll want a couple of thicker (but not too thick) jumpers that you can wear with other insulation layers!
• T-shirts/Vests – No matter the time of year you travel to Europe, there should always be a few t-shirts in your bag. They’re the ultimate multipurpose clothing item! 4-5 different tops is the ideal number but enough for a week is recommended (note: it doesn’t have to be a clean top every day)! If it’s going to be hot, consider replacing a t-shirt or two with vests or tank tops. Likewise, if it’s going to be cold, long-sleeved t-shirts will be a welcome addition. 
• Trousers – Jeans, travel pants or leggings, no matter how you choose to cover your legs, it’s worth packing at least one pair of semi-formal trousers. For men, a good pair of jeans or dark travel pants will do the job. For women, dark leggings, jeans or travel pants are perfect. In the winter they’ll keep you warm and you may want a few pairs! Long, semi-formal pants also mean you can get into classy clubs or restaurants without worrying about a dress code!
• Shorts – Especially important in the summer, shorts help keep you cool while exploring or hanging out at the beach. If you’re travelling in colder climates, shorts aren’t so important but having a lightweight pair is always a good idea – even if they’re just for hanging out at your accommodation while you wait for your laundry! 
• Dresses/skirts – If you’d rather wear a dress or skirt than trousers, pack them instead! Dresses and skirts are excellent for summer in Europe as they’re breathable and offer protection from the sun! They can be worn to the beach, in nice bars and restaurants or even for just chilling out at your accommodation! 
• Pants – I don’t need to know how many pairs of pants you usually wear in a week! If you plan to do laundry as you travel, a week’s worth is a good estimate. But if you don’t, plan for the length of your trip!
• Bras – A couple of comfy day bras plus at least a sports bra is recommended. 
• Socks – Again, a week’s worth of socks is a good estimate. Include at least one merino wool pair if you are planning on tackling any of Europe’s best hikes ! If most of your trip will be around the pool or at the beach, you may not need a new pair of socks every day. Remember, the more time you spend barefoot, the fewer socks you need to carry! 

Loungewear/Pyjamas

• Comfy Clothes – Sometimes you just want your PJs to snuggle down in for the day. If you’ve not already planned a set of comfy clothes for sleeping or relaxing in, now’s the time to include them! 
• Swimming Gear – For men, this is as simple as a few pairs of board shorts, swimming trunks or god forbid, budgie smugglers. For women, a few bikinis or swimsuits will be plenty for a summer trip to Europe. Even if you’re on a winter trip, be sure to check whether your accommodation has a hot tub or spa before taking the swimming gear out of your bag! 

Footwear for Europe

• Shoes – Choosing travel shoes for Europe is relatively simple. Unless you’re doing a lot of proper hiking, a comfy pair of sneakers or walking shoes will more than suffice. If you’re travelling somewhere cold, wet or snowy, consider waterproof shoes for added protection against the elements. Black or dark-coloured shoes are best as they can pass as semi-formal if required. One pair of closed-toe shoes is usually enough for most trips to Europe! However, if you’re tackling some proper hikes, you might want to consider a pair of hiking boots or rugged hiking shoes. 

Tropicfeel Shoes

Tropicfeel make comfortable, lightweight shoes for travel. They're versatile, easily replacing 2-3 regular pairs of shoes from your backpack!

• Sandals – Whether you’re at the beach or wandering around Europe’s most romantic cities in summer, sandals are an ideal choice for keeping your feet cool! For most people, 1-2 pairs of sandals is more than enough. Just make sure they work with multiple outfits!
• Flip-Flops – An alternative to sandals, flip-flops are a good choice for beach days or shower use if you’re staying in a hostel! 

Accessories for Europe

• Buff – Buffs are excellent travel accessories that should be on every packing list for Europe. In summer, they protect you from the sun and help wick sweat away from your skin. In winter, they protect you from the cold. 
• Scarf/Sarong – Scarfs and sarongs are up there with some of our favourite accessories for Europe. They’ll keep you warm in the winter and offer protection from the sun in the winter. You may want to carry a sarong if you’re visiting religious sites as you can use it to cover your legs or shoulders if there are particularly conservative rules in place! 
• Hat – Whether it’s hot or cold, there’s a travel hat for you! Woolly hats, beanies and bobble hats are all ideal for travelling to Europe in winter, while caps and sun hats are perfect for a summer trip to the continent!  
• Gloves – It’s no secret that vast swathes of Europe get cold in winter. Protect your hands with a good pair of gloves. They don’t need to be thick – even lightweight travel gloves make a big difference!
• Water Bottle – A reusable water bottle is a must-have travel accessory. Throughout most of Western Europe, tap water is safe to drink. This means you can fill up your water bottle from wherever you’re staying, so you don’t need to waste money (or single-use plastic) on buying bottled water every day! If you don’t have much room in your bag, consider a collapsible water bottle , like the Platypus Soft Bottle or Vapur Anti-Bottle , they fold or roll down super small when not in use. 

• Filtered Water Bottle – While much of Western Europe has safe drinking water, that’s not always true in Eastern Europe. Rather than take a standard reusable bottle, opt for a filtered bottle instead, so you can create your own clean drinking water from any source! Our favourite water purifying bottle it the Grayl UltraPress !
• Travel Towel – Lightweight, absorbent and quick drying, a travel towel should be in your bag for every trip. They can be used at the beach, at the pool or just to dry off after a shower at your hostel. 
• Money Belt – While Europe generally has an excellent reputation for safety , certain parts of the continent are well known for pickpocketing and petty theft. Rather than fall victim to this, opt to wear a money belt , or an alternative secret stash , to keep the bulk of your money and belongings safe from thieves. 
• Face Mask – While some countries have completely forgotten a pandemic ever happened, others are still enforcing mask-wearing on public transport and in some public spaces. Keep a face mask to hand in case you need it while on the road. 

Electronics to Pack for Europe

• Phone – This one pretty much goes without saying. We all tend to carry our phones without even thinking about it anyway. But a smartphone is an amazing piece of travel gear. It allows you to connect to the internet (either via WIFI, a local SIM or an eSIM ), translate words or phrases and work out money conversions on the fly. Plus, a smartphone can be both your camera and entertainment device, with games, podcasts and streaming services! 
• Camera – Cameras are great, I love travelling with mine. However, unless you’re a keen photographer or are trying out a new skill, you’ll likely get just as good (if not better) photos from your phone – have you seen the camera on the new iPhone?! 🤯

• Laptop/Tablet – Not everyone likes travelling with a laptop. Even lightweight options are heavy and take up a load of room in your bag. Plus, some of us like to disconnect when we travel. If you don’t need a laptop but still want a screen bigger than your phone, opting for a tablet is a good compromise. They’re lighter, easier to pack and can do almost everything a laptop can! 
• E-reader – an e-reader, such as a Kindle , Nook or Kobo , is an excellent addition to any traveller’s backpack. E-readers can store thousands of books and e-books are much cheaper to buy than their physical counterparts – what’s not to love?!
• Powerbank – Electronics need charging and sometimes you’re nowhere near an outlet. Having a power bank means you can keep your phone charged if you’ve got important documents saved on there, or keep your e-reader chugging along, so you can read your way through an entire flight! 
• Relevant Cables – Don’t leave home without all the necessary cables for your electronics! While most can be found abroad, it’s a hassle if you have to spend the first day of your trip searching for a charging cable. 
• Universal Adapter – Not all power outlets are the same as at home. Having a universal adapter means you don’t need to worry about getting separate adapters for each country you visit! 
• Travel Insurance – You’d be foolish to travel without good travel insurance . From losing your luggage to breaking an arm, the right travel insurance will protect you financially from all manner of things that can go wrong while on the road.

SafetyWing Nomad Insurance

SafetyWing is the travel insurance of choice for scores of backpackers! 

• Subscription style insurance
• Cheap and flexible
• Available after your trip has started
• Torch – While smartphones tend to have a torch as standard, carrying a separate torch for travel is a good idea. You can use them to illuminate a dark street, navigate a dorm room at night or find your way to the trailhead pre-sunrise! 
• Headphones – Whether you prefer your headphones wireless or still crave the nostalgic feeling of a cable, pack at least one pair of headphones for your trip. That way you can listen to music or podcasts whenever you want and watch Netflix in the evening without disturbing your dorm mates!
• Money – Get some local currency before you leave home – but not too much. Just enough to get you from the airport to your accommodation. ATMs are everywhere in Europe and you’ll often find it’s cheaper to withdraw money than convert it from your home currency. This is especially true if you opt to use a travel card for Europe – these tend to have no or limited fees for withdrawing money abroad! 
• Personal Medication – If you take meds regularly, you’ll need them while you travel! Make sure you’ve got enough and know how to travel with prescription medication .
• Soap/Shower Gel – Not all accommodation options provide soap or shower gel. Make sure you’ve got a small stash (flight sized) to take with you! Soap bars are a good option because they don’t take up your liquid allowance on the plane! 
• Shampoo and Conditioner – If you use shampoo and conditioner regularly, make sure you’ve got some travel bottles ready to go! As with soap, shampoo and conditioner bars are an excellent choice for travellers! 
• Toothpaste – It’s rarely supplied, so bring some with you – you’ll likely need to pick up some more as you travel but it’s easy to find in any shop or supermarket in Europe!

• Sanitary Products – While tampons and sanitary towels are easy to find throughout Western Europe, your choices may become more limited if you get too far off the beaten track. Make sure you’ve got what you need. And if you’re interested in reducing waste as you travel, consider buying a menstrual cup ! 
• Lip Balm – Long flights and days out in the sun can dry your lips out. Lip balm with SPF protection should be on every traveller’s European packing list! 
• Hand Sanitiser – Even in a non-pandemic world, hand sanitiser is a must for travellers. It means you can clean your hands when there’s no soap in the bathroom and helps prevent you getting ill while on the road! 
• Suncream – Especially important if you’re travelling in summer or spending a lot of time outdoors, suncream protects you in both the short and long term! 
• Moisturiser – If you’re travelling somewhere particularly cold or dry, or spending a lot of time outdoors, a tube of moisturiser is a welcome addition to your packing list!
• Makeup   – For those who wear it, don’t travel without your makeup! It can be expensive to replace in Europe! 

Where to Buy Travel Gear

If you travel a lot, you’ll likely have most of what you need already. There’s no point buying new stuff just for the sake of it. Save the money for a cheeky beer or two on the road instead! 

However, if you do need to go shopping for new gear, these are our favourite places to do it.

• A huge range of travel and outdoor gear on offer
• Excellent prices and feature some of the world's top brands
• Easy-to-navigate website

• A disruptive company changing the face of travel brands
• Produce everything from travel shoes to clothing and backpacks
• One-stop travel brand

• Well known and well-respected backpack brand
• Offer luggage options for every type of trip
• Well-priced – high-quality gear

But they’re not the only places. You can often find most of what you need in your local supermarket or shopping mall! 

Things to Consider When Packing for Europe

When you visit Europe will have an impact on what you need to pack. You don’t want to pack for long, hot days at the beach if you’re visiting in the middle of winter! Likewise, packing a bunch of jeans and jumpers for a summer trip to Europe will weigh you down with items you’re unlikely to need! 

Pay attention to the time of year you’re travelling and research average weather conditions for your trip. This will give you a good idea of what clothes you’ll need! 

As important as the season you’re travelling in is the destination you’re visiting. Summer in Southern Spain is very different to summer in Iceland . And winter in Scotland throws up a very different set of conditions to winter in Southern Italy . Make sure you know what the conditions will be like at your destination when choosing what to pack for Europe! 

Activities  

Pack for your activities! If your trip revolves mainly around chilling on the beach, pack plenty of beach clothes. But if you’re heading into the mountains for some serious hiking, your bikini and swimwear will be of little use. 

You don’t need to pack a fresh outfit for every day of your trip. Laundrettes are common in many European cities and if you can’t find one near you, hotels and hostels in Europe frequently offer a laundry service!

Length of Trip

While the amount of clothes you need for a two-week or two-month trip is the same, versatility becomes more important for a longer trip – especially if you’re travelling between different countries, climates and seasons! 

Versatility 

It doesn’t matter where you backpack, choosing versatile clothes and travel gear is always a good idea. By packing items with multiple uses, you can reduce how much you need to carry. A good long-sleeved top can be used for insulation on cold days and sun protection on hot days. Likewise, a universal plug adapter can be used all over Europe and even in the UK – meaning you don’t have to carry multiple adapters for a trip to multiple countries! 

If you’re travelling in winter or somewhere particularly cold, don’t pack a massive jumper or coat. Instead, bring a series of thinner items you can layer together. They’re easier to pack and offer much more versatility than one bulky item! 

Packing List for Europe – A Round-Up

With this list of essentials for European travel, you’ll be well set to enjoy your travels without worrying about what’s in your bag! Of course, every person is different and this packing list is only a guide. Add and remove things to customise the list for you! 

Europe is a wonderfully varied continent – get out there and enjoy it! 

What additions would you make to this packing list for your trip? Let us know in the comments below!

Tim Ashdown | Writer and Gear Specialist

After a life-changing motorcycle accident, Tim decided life was too short to stay cooped up in his home county of Norfolk, UK. Since then, he has travelled Southeast Asia, walked the Camino de Santiago and backpacked South America. His first book,  From Paralysis to Santiago,  chronicles his struggle to recover from the motorcycle accident and will be released later this year.

Packing list for europe in summer

It’s no surprise that summer marks the peak season in Europe. With its favorable weather and extended daylight hours, most travelers opt for this time to explore the continent. To ensure you’re well-prepared and can fully enjoy your trip, in this post I’ll detail what clothes to pack for a summer trip to Europe.

On this post you will find:

Reasons to visit Europe in summer

Weather in europe in summer.

• Accessories

How to pack for Europe in summer

• What I pack in my personal item

Tips for visiting Europe in summer

Despite the extreme heat that can occur in many cities, summer is a great time to travel to Europe because the days are long, there are plenty of activities, and you can make the most of your time compared to traveling in winter. It’s also worth mentioning that summer is the peak season for traveling to Europe, and you’ll generally find cities crowded with tourists.

• Beach . If your plan is to go to the beach, summer is perfect. There are many destinations in Europe with incredible beaches like the Balearic Islands, Italy, Croatia, etc., that you can enjoy if you travel in summer.
• Good weather . There are cities where winter can be very harsh, so summer is perfect for traveling if you like warm weather and don’t want to wear many layers. Also, summer is usually the driest season, so you won’t have many rainy days. Activities and parties.
• Summer in Europe is synonymous with life. It’s when there are the most activities and celebrations. If you like events and festivals, it’s the ideal time to travel.
• Longer days : with European summer time, there are more hours of sunlight, meaning you can enjoy the day until 9 in the evening or even later in some countries. This compared to winter (when it gets dark at 5 in the afternoon) is a great advantage.

If it’s your first time in Europe read: Tips your first time in Europe

Obviously, Europe is a very large continent and temperatures vary greatly in summer depending on each region and country. Therefore, the clothes you pack in your suitcase will depend on the destinations you plan to visit and the activities you intend to do.

The climate in general is warm, but there are cities where it can be oppressive, while in others there may be cooler days and you will need warmer clothing. Summer in Europe extends from mid-June to mid-September, with August being the hottest month in most regions.

Some average temperatures to give you an idea of the climate in Europe in summer:

• Madrid . 32°C máx / 19°C min
• Barcelona . 29°C máx / 21°C min
• London . 24°C máx / 14°C min
• Paris . 26°C máx / 14°C min
• Amsterdam . 22°C máx / 13°C min
• Rome . 32°C máx / 21°C min
• Berlin . 25°C máx / 13°C min
• Copenhaguen . 21°C máx / 12°C min
• Athens . 34°C máx / 22°C min

Packing list for Europe in summer

• T-shirts . I recommend bringing t-shirts in light colors and breathable materials. It’s always better to bring clothing in basic colors that you can mix and match with different outfits.
• Dresses . If you’re visiting beach destinations, don’t forget a colorful dress that you can wear for a night out.
• Shorts and skirts . Stick to basic colors that you can mix and match with the different t-shirts you bring.
• Jeans or long pants . Bring 1 or 2 lightweight long pants.
• Jacket or sweatshirt . Bring a light sweater or sweatshirt in case it gets chilly at night.
• Waterproof jacket . A lightweight and waterproof jacket like this one can save you on a rainy day.
• Underwear .

• Sneakers . One of the most important things for your summer trip to Europe will be choosing the right footwear. You’ll be doing a lot of walking, so you absolutely need to bring sneakers that are comfortable. A recommendation is to wear shoes that you’ve already broken in before the trip.
• Sandals . Since it’s summer, it’s also essential to bring a pair of sandals or flip-flops that are cool and comfortable. My recommendation is always a pair of Birckenstock sandals , which adapt perfectly to your foot and are the most comfortable option for walking and staying cool all day.

• Beach towel
• Backpack or day bag : For walking around all day, you can carry a small backpack or a comfortable crossbody bag. I love Herschel backpacks and use them on all my trips. I pack my camera, wallet, water bottle, sunglasses, etc. Here’s a post with the best Herschel backpacks for travelers .
• Small umbrella
• Microfiber towel : Quick-drying towels are a super practical and easy-to-carry accessory.
• Packable daypack : Perfect for getaways or carrying all your belongings while exploring a city.

• Bathroom essentials . Remember that in carry-on luggage, only containers up to 100 ml are allowed. The simplest option is to have silicone containers like these , which can be refilled with your products.
• Cosmetics and makeup
• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Medications
• Hand sanitizer Tissues

ELECTRONICS

• Portable charger : A must-have if you’re going to spend the whole day out of the hotel.
• Universal adapter : Another essential for any trip abroad. There are very cheap universal adapters like this one that work for visiting any country in the world.
• Cell phone and headphones
• Water bottle/thermos : Something I always bring on my trips is a refillable water bottle like this one . I use it in airports and refill it at the hotel to have water during the day.
• Extra padlocks . I recommend bringing 1 or 2 extra padlocks in case yours breaks and for the hostel locker in case you stay in this type of accommodation.

When choosing the luggage you’re going to take, keep in mind that it’s best to travel light, especially if you’re visiting several countries.

It’s best to travel with just a carry-on suitcase and a backpack. It’s also a good idea to bring a waist pack like this one that you can use every day while exploring.

I recommend buying some organizer cubes . Not only do they help you organize your clothes inside your suitcase, but they also allow you to identify them more quickly since you’ll put similar garments in each cube.

In your carry-on bag, whether it’s a backpack or purse, you’ll need to carry everything you’ll need during the flight. I usually choose the same bag that I’ll use every day during the trip. Here’s what I carry:

• Wallet Toiletry bag: moisturizer, toothbrush, hairbrush, cocoa butter, and sunscreen.
• Refillable water bottle
• A snack like a cereal bar
• Cell phone charger
• Take only the essentials . The best tip I can give you for traveling to Europe at any time is to bring only what you need. Don’t overload your suitcase with extra weight and things you think you might use. Bring clothes that you can mix and match to create several outfits. Lightweight luggage is key for traveling around Europe because you’ll have many transfers on different types of transportation.
• Check the weather of the places you’re going to visit before traveling. Look at the forecast for your destinations before traveling and organize your luggage based on this.
• Stay hydrated and use sunscreen ! It may seem like a silly tip, but it’s very easy to get sunburned from spending the whole day exploring a city in the sun.
• Get travel insurance . For this or any other trip, it’s essential to have travel insurance in case you need medical attention. Click here to get a quote for your IATI insurance

Disclaimer : PostcardsfromIvI is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com.

Other useful posts abour Europe:

• Winter packing list for Europe
• Things to do in Rome in 3 days
• 20 tips for visiting London for the first time
• How to spend 2 days in Amsterdam
• Where to stay in Paris: best areas and hotels

CLICK HERE TO SEE ALL MY EUROPE POSTS

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