Le Travel Style

by Courtney Delfino • a San Diego based travel + lifestyle blog inspiring you to travel in style

Packing Guides , Style , Travel Tips · Last Updated: July 27, 2022

Travel Capsule Wardrobe: How to Dress Like A European

The ultimate travel capsule wardrobe.

Being a skilled packer is not an easy feat. There is a formula that goes into creating the perfect Travel Capsule Wardrobe and I’m here to teach you my ways! With a little bit of strategy and a few classic versatile pieces, you will be packing light in no time. Along with that, while this collection can take you anywhere in the world, it’s designed for a European destination. Finally, read on for tips on How to Dress European so you don’t stand out as a tourist!

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Classic Clothing Items to Invest in

travel capsule wardrobe europe

When curating your travel wardrobe you want to start off with good solid pieces that will interchange with many outfits. These are the pieces to invest in because they will last for your trips in years to come! Also, always remember the cardinal rule when packing: stick to a similar color palette. It makes life easier when you’re on the road. Consider this your packing list for classic items:

Trench Coat

A classic trench coat is the clothing equivalent to a good black purse. It’s a wardrobe staple that will never go out of style. Being that it’s lightweight, I travel with mine the majority of the time. When shopping for your trench stick to a classic style.

White Button Down

The perfect all-season staple is a white button-down . Whether you’re wearing it with jeans, a leather skirt, or simply leggings you can never go wrong with this minimalist piece. I love wearing mine through the airport with leggings or with jean shorts in the summer. Being that they will never go out of style, this is a great piece to invest in.

A classic blazer will dress up any look with its sharp silhouette! It’s no longer a staple for the office we are taking the blazer everywhere with us. You can never go wrong styling a blazer with jeans and sneakers for a casual look. Or take it out to a fancy dinner paired over a midi dress and heels. Finally, throw it on with leggings and a tee at the airport for a polished look.

Wide Leg Trousers

Wide-leg trousers have taken the fashion industry by storm in the past few years. They have become a new classic staple and I am here for it! Not only are they comfortable but they’re uber stylish as well. You can’t go wrong with that combo and the trousers I linked come in multiple colors.

Midi Dress (Spring/Summer)

A midi dress is a perfect balance between casual and polished. For summer travel, you can easily wear it with sneakers for a day of sightseeing or paid with heels and a clutch for a night out. It’s also a very flattering silhouette to add to your closet!

Sweater Dress (Fall/Winter)

The fall equivalent of a midi dress is a sweater midi dress . A cold weather staple and one of the most comfortable pieces of clothing to travel in during the colder months. Pair with sneakers for a daytime look or high-heeled boots for a fancy dinner. It rounds out your travel capsule wardrobe perfectly.

Straight Leg Jeans

I have a love-hate relationship with jeans when it comes to traveling but they are no doubt one of the most versatile pieces of clothing you can add to your wardrobe. Stick to a straight-leg style since they are very trendy at the moment. You also want a pair that fits properly or else you will be uncomfortable. These AG Golde jeans come highly recommend and the material is a bit stretchy.

Neutral Cardigan

Cardigans have been in fashion for decades. Not only that but a cardigan comes in handy during those long-haul flights and train rides. I like to pair my neutral cardi with straight-leg jeans, a tank top, and sneakers for a travel day polished look.

Trendy Pieces

Trendy pieces are a great way to round out your travel capsule wardrobe. You can easily filter these pieces in and out as you see fit. Finally, when shopping for trendy clothes I tend to go out of the box in terms of colors and patterns as I will filter out these pieces within a year or so.

Statement Blouse

A statement blouse truly makes a statement. The best part about wearing a statement blouse is you can keep your other articles of clothing simple. Let the blouse have its own moment!

Leather Trousers

Leather trousers are another hot item that has taken the fashion world by storm. I don’t see leather slowing down as a trend so pick yourself up a pair of classic pants to last years to come.

Black Split Front Pants

These split-front pants elevate any outfit but feel like leggings. Sounds like a win-win for me! Pair this with a white button-down, black booties, and throw on a trench coat and you have yourself a solid European Outfit.

Travel Capsule Wardrobe: Accessories

Retro sneakers.

The sneaker trend is not going anywhere so buckle up sister and buy yourself a nice pair of retro sneakers . These can easily be styled with a dress and denim jack. Or opt to wear them with split front pants and a white button-down.

Wearable Heels

I tend to only pack one pair of wearable heels when traveling to Europe. Mostly because of the cobblestone streets. They do not pair well with heels. However, if you choose a pair with a chunky heel you’ll be waltzing down those streets in style.

Black Heeled Booties

The versatility of Black Heeled Booties is endless! Whether you pair it with leather trousers and a statement blouse or opt for a more casual look with jeans and a white button-down you can trust these booties to last for years. I always splurge on accessories because they are mostly worn in my wardrobe.

Crossbody Bag

I love a good shoulder bag like the rest of the fashion world but when traveling I always carry a crossbody bag . For multiple reasons one being scams and pickpocketers. When wearing your crossbody in front of your person you are less likely to have someone rummaging through there when no one is looking. I love this trendy crossbody from Marc Jacobs because it’s the perfect blend of classic and trendy.

Wide Brim Fedora

An easy way to elevate any daytime look is by adding a wide brim fedora . You can pair it with a leather jacket and jeans for a daytime look or with a sweater dress and over-the-knee boots for a night out. The best part about wearing a hat while traveling is not only do you look chic but it protects your face from the sun.

Travel Tote Bag

An ideal tool that comes in handy for travelers is a tote bag . Whether you’re toting around your laptop at the airport or simply shopping in the European markets, bringing a classic tote bag on your trip will always be a good idea.

Black Sunglasses

Chic, timeless, and classic. I am describing these Le Specs Sunglasses that I own in two colors because they are that good. We love a good pair of sunglasses to hide our tired eyes while traveling. Finally, they are under $70 so it’s a steal.

How to Dress European

The key to blending in with the Europeans is creating an outfit that has 3 elements: classic, cool, and minimalism. If you can learn this formula you will be golden. Another important thing to remember is that Europeans do not wear activewear as a leisure outfit unless they are quite literally on their way to the gym. So leave the lululemon and baseball caps at home! One of the main reasons we want to blend in as locals when traveling is because you are less susceptible to being targeted for a travel scam. Here are a few packing tips to help you dress like a European:

  • Stick to classic clothing, you can also dare to be trendy with some pieces because it is Europe after all
  • Wear neutral colors
  • Bring comfortable walking shoes that look elevated
  • Leave the athleisure wear and logos at home
  • Don’t wear jeans often, they used to be a big no-no but in recent years have become more accepted in Europe. Opt for a straight leg or wide leg pair they are tres chic
  • Alternatively, if you are wearing a feminine outfit choose a menswear-inspired shoe

Thank you for reading my “Ultimate Travel Capsule Wardrobe” post. I hope you gained insight into how to dress like a European. If you have any questions leave them below. Don’t forget to check out more of my styling guides .

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Your Ultimate Travel Wardrobe: Over 40 Outfit Ideas from ONLY 14 Pieces!

Travel capsule wardrobe.

Are you headed on an exciting trip soon? Well, if you’re trying to look stylish but pack light, this post is for you. I’m taking only 14 pieces and creating over 40 outfits that you can easily fit in a carry-on suitcase! This mini travel capsule wardrobe is specifically designed for casual travel and I’m sharing ways you can style each piece for simple, but chic, travel outfits you’ll love wearing during your next trip. With this minimal, comfortable, and functional travel capsule, you’ll even have room left over in your suitcase for shopping!!

For more outfit inspo, you’ll love our Spring Lookbook with 40+ outfit ideas for EVERY event you have coming up. Everything from a simple coffee date to what to wear for weddings, graduations, travel, and more! Get access HERE .

shoes for travel

Importance of Shoe Selection

The first and most important thing to consider when building your travel capsule wardrobe is…the shoes. We have to cover these first because they will determine the outfits we’re building throughout the rest of this post! The key to the perfect travel capsule is to minimize what you’re bringing and to make sure that everything you pack mix and match together. Consider your shoes as an anchor for your travel wardrobe. Starting with shoes will help you narrow down your outfit choices and plan practical, stylish outfits more easily. I recommend three pairs of neutral, versatile shoes. I recommend you pack a pair of sneakers, flats, and wedges or heeled shoe. Throughout this post, you will see these three pairs of shoes styled with every outfit… (BTW, for those that don’t like or can’t wear heels, swap the heels for another pair of flats.)

minimal travel capsule

Dolce Vita Sneakers

Instead of a basic pair of running sneakers, consider wearing elevated sneakers like this pair by Dolce Vita. They have cool stitching throughout and actually look very similar to my Chloe sneakers that I wear all the time…but are just as comfortable and a fraction of the price! They’re a very neutral, versatile, wearable off-white color, super comfortable, and have a small platform (1 1/2 inches) for some added height which I love .

dolce vita braided sandals

Dolce Vita Braided Flat Sandals

For a travel capsule wardrobe, you should look for a pair of flats in your skin shade that has a little extra design detail that makes them more stylish. These Dolce Vita flats are close to my skin tone and have a pretty braided detail. The braiding makes them even more stylish without compromising fashion or function. They are also easy to get on and off.

dolce vita braided wedges

Dolce Vita Wedges

Next, you’ll want a pair of wedges or heeled sandals for dinners or when you want to feel a little more dressed up. These wedges are also by Dolce Vita, easy to get on and off, super comfortable, and they color is so neutral that they’ll go with everything!

White Tank & White Jeans Travel Capsule Wardrobe

White Tank & White Jeans

The white tank had a resurgence in 2022 and it’s still going strong. White tanks have never been out of style, but they’re even more popular now than ever. Plus, it’s a wardrobe basic you’ll wear beyond travel especially for layering. In the outfits above, I’m wearing a white tank by Evereve that’s SO good. It has thick enough straps that are set out a little further on the shoulder so you can still wear a regular bra with it (big win!). I paired it with some white jeans by Good American that are cropped (perfect for petites!), aren’t see-through, and are very comfortable. They run a little small, so I’d order up one size. You can see that they work perfectly with the sneakers, flats, and wedges too!

Sizing: All of the pieces in this capsule run true to size except the white jeans and the denim skirt (below).

What Bottoms to Pack for Travel

What Bottoms to Pack for Travel

A quick note about what bottoms you pack for travel … another anchor for your travel wardrobe is your bottoms, just like shoes. This means that everything you pack for your next trip should work around your shoes and your bottoms. In this capsule, I’m featuring a pair of white jeans, a denim skirt, and black wide-leg pants. But in your travel capsule, you might include or add light-wash jeans, denim shorts, a flowy skirt, and/or white wide-leg pants…or whatever you prefer. These are simply meant to give you an idea of how your travel capsule can/should work!

Black Tank for travel

Black Tank & White Jeans

Next up is a black tank by LNA that’s very soft, lightweight, and breathable. It’s super easy to throw on with whatever bottoms you’ve packed and feel stylish, put-together, and comfortable. It has a cool cutout detail at the chest, a ribbed fabric, it’s sleeveless and you can wear a regular bra! This is perfect for those super hot travel activities you have planned. I paired it with the same white Good American jeans and all three pairs of shoes. We’ll be repeating this formula to show you just how versatile each piece is and to give you ideas on how to put together your travel capsule. These first two looks are very casual and would be perfect for running errands, sightseeing, lunch, etc.

By the way, we also posted a video over on YouTube if you want to see these outfits in motion you can find that here .

Travel Capsule Wardrobe

White Tee & White Jeans

Next up is this cool Nation LTD tee. I own a few tees from this brand and love the design details they add that make them look more like blouses. They elevate a look more than a normal white tee and are much more fashion-forward. This tee has a subtle puff sleeve, ruching in the front, and a flattering v-neckline. I styled the tee half-tucked into the white jeans with a brown belt but  you could easily leave it untucked too. By the way, if you don’t love puff sleeves, Nation LTD makes so many amazing elevated t-shirt options. You can look at other styles here .

Travel Capsule Wardrobe for women

White Eyelet Top & White Jeans

This white eyelet top by Evereve is a beautiful, high-quality piece that’s perfect for your summer wardrobe. I love the pretty eyelet details, the subtle puff sleeves, the breathable and lightweight cotton, and the length! The hemline is short enough so you can leave it untucked and it’ll still look polished.  The top could also double as your swimsuit coverup, which is a packing pro tip! 😉 I styled the top again with the white jeans and all three pairs of shoes. See how versatile these shoes are? The exact top is no longer available, but I linked a similar one below.

Travel Capsule Wardrobe Women Over 40

Blue & White Striped Top & White Jeans

Next up is this blue and white striped top by LNA. I love how classic and versatile this piece is and I know I’ll wear it all summer long. One of my favorite things about this top is that there’s a button at the sleeve that allows you to raise the sleeve without actually cuffing it, which is really lovely and looks very cool. At the hemline, you can cinch it and tie it to give it a cool bubble hem look. But I cinched it, tied it, and tucked it into the same white jeans and sneakers, flats, and wedges.

Travel Capsule Wardrobe

Printed Blouse & White Jeans

Farm Rio is a brand I’ve fallen in love with! They make vibrant, beautiful prints in amazing high-quality fabrics… and the fits are amazing. This blouse is bold and beautiful, feels very summery and tropical, but is also very wearable. The neckline and sleeves are very flattering and forgiving. It’s also 100% cotton and very lightweight so even though it has long sleeves, it’s very breathable. (While the exact top is no longer available, I’ll link some similar options below.) I’m wearing it with the white jeans and really love this combination of the bright colors against the white. And of course…I added the brown belt and styled it with the sneakers, flats, and wedges. Are you seeing the pattern here? 😉

Black Pants different outfits

Black Pants

I wanted to give you another bottoms option that wasn’t a pair of jeans, so I’m styling a pair of black, wide-leg pants by Evereve. They are a super lightweight, sporty fabric, they have pockets, and they’re very comfortable. They have the feel of yoga pants but the look of smart, stylish trousers. These pants run a little long on me (I’m 5’4”) but you can see how they look with the sneakers and the wedges above. I styled them with 5 of the 6 tops which shows just how versatile they are! The exact pair is no longer available, but you’ll see another great pair of similar black trousers linked below. Swapping the shoes can also completely change the dressiness of these pants. You can also see in the last two looks that styling the pants with the black tank and simply changing the shoes from sneakers to wedges really elevates it and makes it a dressier look you could wear to a nice dinner.

agolde denim skirt

White Tank & Mini Skirt

As I mentioned above, your capsule wardrobe can include whatever bottoms you prefer. You can even add a few extra bottoms like a skirt, denim shorts, or light-wash jeans. But for this travel capsule, I’m sharing this Agolde denim mini skirt. When I first ordered this, I wasn’t sure if I’d like it…but as it turns out… I LOVE it! It’s more comfortable than denim shorts, it has a cool pointed hemline, and I love the fit. I did size up one size and it fits perfectly. You can wear this skirt with pretty much anything this summer. First, I’m wearing it with the white tank, which is something that’s a little more youthful and shows a lot of skin, but you can easily add a cardigan or lightweight blazer to add coverage. I’d wear this on really hot sight-seeing days!

Black Tank & Mini Skirt

Black Tank & Mini Skirt

Next up is the black LNA tank with the fun cutout styled with the denim shirt. I love the combination of the black tank with the brown belt…yes, you CAN wear black and brown together! It’s a beautiful color combo you shouldn’t shy away from. And again…this look is fabulous with the sneakers, wedges, and flats!

White Tee & Mini Skirt

White Tee & Mini Skirt

The denim skirt also works with the Nation LTD white tee AND the sneakers, wedges, and flats.

White Eyelet Top & Mini Skirt Travel Capsule Wardrobe

White Eyelet Top & Mini Skirt

Next, the white eyelet top. You can easily tuck this into the denim skirt for an effortlessly cool look. If you’re worried about getting hot, wear the white tank underneath and open up the top for even more breathability.

Striped Top & Mini Skirt Travel Capsule Wardrobe

Blue & White Striped Top & Mini Skirt

This striped top also works so well with the denim skirt! I love this combination so much because of the juxtaposition of the more masculine shirt and the feminine skirt. It’s such a gorgeous combination! Style it with the sneakers for a long day of walking, with the sandals for a casual lunch when you want to feel comfortable, or the wedges for a dressier lunch or when you just want to feel a little more elevated.

Printed Blouse & Mini Skirt Travel Capsule Wardrobe

Printed Blouse & Mini Skirt

Lastly, I’m wearing the printed Farm Rio dress with the mini skirt, brown belt, and all three pairs of shoes!

Black Jumpsuit travel looks

Black Jumpsuit

I wanted to share a piece you can bring with you on your trip that will easily transition from day to night and feels a little dressier. This black Evereve jumpsuit is something you could wear to a dressier dinner. It’s SO good. The top fits snugly so you will feel very secure, and you don’t have to do any yanking or pulling. You tie it at the back and you’re good to go…you don’t even have to wear a bra! The fabric is ruched and thick enough at the top, so you feel very covered up. But it’s still very soft on the skin, lightweight, and breathable. Plus, it’s very wrinkle-resistant, a must for travel. The bodice is fitted, which is a great contrast to the flowy bottoms. The best part about this jumpsuit is the hemline…because it’s a little shorter, I can wear it with sneakers during the day and swap my shoes with the wedges for a dressy, sexier look at night. The newest version of this jumpsuit has bra-friendly straps and all the same flattering features. Linking it below!

Printed Midi Dress travel outfit

Printed Midi Dress

The last piece is this gorgeous dress by Farm Rio. It’s a bit of a wild card but I love to throw one special piece like this into my suitcase whenever I travel. It’s important to have a piece that you’re excited to wear and that makes me feel happy and beautiful. The beautiful thing about this dress is that you can wear it from day to night and with all three of the shoes I’ve featured. I love the fun, vibrant print, the flattering empire waist, and adjustable tie shoulder straps. It’s also smocked in the back, so you have some room and it’s very comfortable. The fabric is 100% cotton so it’s lightweight and breathable, perfect when you want a flowy, breezy look for your hot summer vacation.

Jewelry & Accessories for travel

Jewelry & Accessories

My approach to jewelry and accessories during travel is to bring impactful pieces that aren’t too over the top. In all of these looks, I’m wearing two pieces of jewelry by Gorjana. The first is this cool chain necklace that packs just the right amount of punch. The second is a pair of classic gold hoops , which you really can’t go wrong with! I also showed a brown belt with most of the looks. It’s a simple way to add polish and style to every outfit. Because the rest of the travel capsule is so minimal, you will have space in your suitcase to add more jewelry if you want. I would probably also add a few bracelets, another pair of more glam earrings, and a statement necklace.

I would also add two pairs of sunglasses, one black and one brown pair. Also, make sure that one is a more glam option (like oversized square frames) and one is sportier (like aviators). If you have the room, I’d definitely add a dress or two, maybe an extra pair of shoes, a hat, and some extra bottoms options. But, again, if you want to keep things minimal, this is plenty! And, as I said above, you’ll even have room for shopping!

Where are you going this summer and do you have your outfits all planned out yet? Let us know in the comments below!

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25 thoughts on “ Your Ultimate Travel Wardrobe: Over 40 Outfit Ideas from ONLY 14 Pieces! ”

  • Pingback: 6 Tops Under $75 You Can Wear into Fall - For Less Friday

Hi, very useful but would love ideas for adapting this to a summer trip to the UK in June. Planning on being in London, Bath, and Oxford. Thanks!

Great idea! Thanks so much for sharing…Very excited for you on your upcoming trip! We’re working on some more travel tips and content right now! ~Team Busbee

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Once again you’re offering great ideas. I always like the summary of suggestions. I use it for all my trips. I’ll be in Europe again smiling when I get dressed thinking of how you showed us what to wear to explore, for dinner and just for feeling beautiful. Keep up the good work, we’re counting on you 😉

SO glad to hear that you enjoyed this post, Sheri! Have an amazing time on your trip! ~Team Busbee

I needed this!!! I’ve just booked a week at a 5 star resort in Costa Rica (Jan 2025!!). I’m super excited, and this gives me some great ideas. I always travel carry only, so I’m used to packing minimally. This is a great help Thank, love ALL the posts and videos very much. Ramona Toronto (area), Canada

So excited for YOU on your upcoming trip, Ramona! Glad this was helpful as you prepare… more packing tips to come! ~Team Busbee

  • Pingback: 10 Chic & Stylish Travel Outfit Combinations That You Can Easily Recreate *Including Packing Tips*
  • Pingback: 8 Super Stylish & Comfortable Summer Outfit Ideas & What I've Been Wearing!

Thank you for this post and video. I really like that you showed how each item mixed and matched with each other. Most of the time I find my capsule boring, but adding that pop of color in the colorful blouse nod the blue pinstripe shirt gives a wide variety of looks. I’ll be going to a destination wedding next month in Prague, Czech Republic and later a river cruise to a few Eastern European countries. I’m looking into my closet to see what I can come up with. I think this may be the best packing I’ll do for a trip. I’ll have to wait until August to see what the weather will be like. You have given me some wonderful ideas!

I’m so glad this was helpful for you, Liana! Those pops of color do make such a difference when packing a very well curated capsule. Best of luck as you prepare for your upcoming trip!! ~Erin xo

  • Pingback: Look Cool & Stylish with These 6 Monochrome Outfits for Summer

Thanks for the travel posts this year. I am traveling to Portland, OR this summer, so I’ve been looking at your safari videos/posts. Lots of hiking will be done for sure. We will also have some days of shopping and site seeing, so this last post has given me some new ideas.

So glad this is helpful for you, Sandra! Have a great time on your upcoming trip!! ~Erin xo

Finally a practical stylish travel capsule! Yes Molly, you can wear white pants-Tide Stick! Plus you have a back up of black pants. I just returned from 2 months travel with one carry on. Shoes are always the toughest packing bulk. I cheat with a small foldable shoe bag packed away. I then wear the bulkiest shoes-booties or my tennis shoes-into my backpack that goes under the seat. Hotel shower caps are the perfect shoe cover! You’re welcome! Thank you Erin for the great looks! Using this as my template next trip!

All great tips, Arlee! So glad this post will be helpful for your next trip!! Hope you had a great time on your recent trip! ~Erin xo

This is a great starting point for packing for a summer trip. Which combination would you wear on the plane and what outerwear/layer would you bring? It’s always cold on the plane, in restaurants and it isn’t always 80degrees and sunny.

I’ve got a whole video specific to “Travel Day” coming in a few weeks that will cover all of these details better, but I’d go with the sneakers (always wear your biggest/heaviest shoes on travel day – plus they are comfy!) black pants, and black tank with a jacket or blazer as a third layer as well. I’d definitely add one jacket to this list to have the cooler temps/ AC covered! ~Erin xo

I can’t imagine keeping all of that white clean during travel especially the pants. My life style means more kid friendly/dirt resistance. I love the look of white on white. Just super impractical.

I hear this a lot – but I really never have a problem with stains on the white pants! I love to wear them while traveling and will just spot clean anything right away if I do have a spill. BUT…you should always adjust style tips to fit YOU best! Thanks for reading, Molly! ~Erin xo

Great ideas, but I feel that 18 outfit ideas that all go with 3 pairs of shoes would be a better description.

Appreciate your feedback, Jenn. Hope this gives you some great ideas for your next trip! ~Erin xo

Thanks for this! I’m using your Africa packing trip for a trip I am taking on Saturday to Peru to climb the Inca trail to Machu Picchu (I will NOT be wearing those ugly Merrill hiking boots–Sam Edelman combat boots for me :-)). Long time watcher of your YouTube channel-thanks!

LOVE to hear that, Sarah! I hope you have the BEST time on your trip!! Thanks so much for being a part of this amazing community of women. ~Erin xo

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travel capsule wardrobe europe

travel capsule wardrobe europe

europe travel tips | europe wardrobe capsule

Style at a certain age.

travel capsule wardrobe europe

yesterday, i shared my five must-have travel wardrobe staples and my goal to pack light for our trip to europe. read it here  if you missed that post. today, it’s all about my black and white capsule wardrobe. but first, here are a few items that make it into my carry-on. don’t ever pack anything other than clothes and toiletries in your checked luggage; anything of value is kept close. for this trip, i splurged and purchased a new marc jacobs floral print sport tote. it’s polyurethane and easily wiped down. it has two sets of handles – long and short – and a zipper. since my wardrobe color palette is black and white, i went for a pop of color and pattern with my handbag. an elegant  michael kors wallet with a flip lock flap closure keeps me organized. but this is what typically finds its way inside my travel tote.

  • portable charger
  • lint roller
  • mints 

europe wardrobe capsule

a survival kit for the long airplane ride is a must. this is what i carry at all times, wherever I go. 

  • hand sanitizer
  • lip balm 
  • zzzQuil melatonin gummies,
  • tide bleach pen
  • hand and face wipes 
  • not shown is a travel first aid kit with band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and gauze pads.

europe wardrobe capsule

gingham raincoat ( similar here ) |  black blazer  |  denim jacket

three jackets made the grade. with rain, in the forecast, a raincoat was a no-brainer. this gingham coat was lighter than a traditional trench, and it’s black and white. a blazer and denim jacket should get me by with temps in the seventies. plus, a blazer is perfect to wear to dinner in the evening.

europe wardrobe capsule

henley dress  | denim shirtdress ( similar here )

two dresses were packed. the henley tee shirt dress is a dream to wear and looks cute with sneakers. it will be perfect when the temperatures reach the eighties. the denim shirtdress flies solo with black booties but pulls double-duty as a duster over jeans.

europe wardrobe capsule

  chinos  |  toothpick jeans  |  white denim

pants get the most wear and tear on trips as they’re worn multiple times. dark rinse denim hides a multitude of travel sins. but i have a tide bleach pen in case the white denim falls on hard times. chinos are comfortable. and black pants? what more can we say about pants that go with everything?

europe wardrobe capsule

  black pants

europe wardrobe capsule

floral maxi skirt |  white corset skirt

many of us would forego skirts. but i love to wear them especially when the temps climb into the seventies and eighties. this floral maxi skirt is lightweight, looks adorable, and will be perfect for evening. the white corset skirt looks fantastic with espadrilles or sneakers. i think it will be on style repeat all vacation long.

europe wardrobe capsule

black tee sold out ( similar here ) |  gray tee  |  white tee

europe wardrobe capsule

  stripe tunic  |  polka dot ruffle  |  gingham camp shirt |  chambray shirt | sleeveless white blouse

the rule of thumb is two tops to one bottom. counting my tees i have ten. but one more shirt can potentially make it into my suitcase. what do you think?  i just might be fine with the chosen blouses.

europe wardrobe capsule

  silk white ruffle  |  striped mock neck tee

europe wardrobe capsule

navy v-neck sweater  |  black cardigan

europe wardrobe capsule

sneakers  | espadrilles  |  backless loafers  |  black booties  |  metallic sandals

there may be one too many pairs of shoes for this trip. but the sneakers are worn on the plane. and mr. style might bail me out and pack one pair in his suitcase… all-in-all i think i’m ready to jet off to paris tomorrow night. what do you think?

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Beth Djalali

is the Founder and CEO of Style at a Certain Age. She writes Sundays-Fridays on all topics ranging from fashion, health, wellness, home design and more.

She’s 65, 5’8, and size 8.

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Looks like a smashing lineup! No scarves?

Beth- lovely! First off, safe travels to you and Mr. Style. I’m betting you’ve packed a scarf or two and a few pieces of jewelry so am looking forward to seeing how you’ll switch things up day to day and add pops by way of your fabulous accessories. I’d like to know what you plan to carry as a day bag while out seeing the sights. I always struggle with finding the right mix of functionality in a cross body bag that can hold maps, water bottle etc with some modicum of style. I’m assuming the Marc Jacobs bag is for onboard travel. Thanks and bon voyage.

If it was me, I would probably cut down on the number of tops – for a 14 day trip you have some items you may only wear once or twice. Tops are also an opportunity to add some colour – say replace the white/black/grey tees with a bright red tee. My rule of thumb is make sure the tops work with most or all of the bottoms: that way the total number of potential outfits is at least (number of tops) x (number of bottoms). It’s always good to leave room for vacation purchases!

I would love for you to show a picture of your packed bag so I can see how you get all of that in there! Have a wonderful trip.

Beth, You will have a fqbulous time in Paris while looking Tres chic!

I’d skip heels, mules, skirts and anything white. Those are things I wouldn’t wear on a two-week trip. I need shoes with good support due to a ridiculous amount of walking. And I know myself — it takes concentration and technique to walk the cobbles without twisting an ankle. White wouldn’t last a day without getting dirty.

After I get home, I don’t like wearing my travel clothes for a good long time. Sooo tired of them! Maybe this is why I like to travel when the seasons are changing, so I can tuck those things away for a few months afterwards.

This is the color scheme I have chosen for a 7 day cruise from Boston to Montreal

. I am not taking any dresses or skirts as I just don’t often wear them. My face creams . make-up, and toiletries take up so much room. How do you pack yours? I love the packing bags we got a few years ago as it keeps everything more organized! Enjoy your trip. Looking forward to seeing how you put your clothes together! I love your style!

Thanks for this great post – I am leaving this week for a trip to Croatia and Slovenia and also chose black/white/navy for my travel wardrobe. I swear by packing cubes and can fit everything for a 12 day vacation into a 25” suitcase and a small carry on – I always pack a change of clothing and pjs in my carry on in case my luggage is lost or late. Have a great trip!

Good morning, Miss Beth! You’re going to look smashing on your European vacay with Mr. Style. So excited for you! Can’t wait to see your photos!

May I ask the brand of your slip-on mules with the tassels? Thank you!

Bon Voyage!

Great post re packing light. My husband would love to see what mr. style is packing and what size bag.

Great post, Beth! I love seeing your choices for the trip! I may have missed it, but how many days is the trip and do you have a separate outfit for travel, aside from the items shown? How about accessories, like bags, scarves, and jewelry? I appreciate seeing the different things for the carry-on bag. It’s easy to see how well all of these items would create a mix and match wardrobe for the duration. Do you ever find need to do laundry on your trip? Do you have items that particularly wash well by hand, if needed to do your own wash? Sounds like a great vacation!! Have fun!

I am on the tail end of a 2 week Adriatic vacation and am in Paris. We are same age and southern Atlantic coasters. Temps are rapidly climbing. I strongly recommend you leave behind the black booties and mules. Stan Smith Style sneakers rule the streets! The light tees/light tops with sleeves will get the most use. Consider switching heavy blazer for lighter cardigan linen topper. Not seeing any white bottoms yet in major european cities but light blue denim is popular. Have a fabulous time! Remember you can always shop to fill in gaps! Love your blog!

I am going to Paris too at the end of May for 10 days!!!! I was thinking about taking the ZZZquil pills – do they work? I’m dreading the flight over.

I’m starting to think about what I am taking and I noticed my color palate is the same, black, white and denim. We are twins!!!!! I hope you have a wonderful trip. We need to trade stories when we get back!!!

Looks great! Have a blast. Only thing I’d add is an outlet adapter for overseas. And don’t forget to call credit card companies to let them know you’re heading off. I always remember that as I did forget once and freaked! hahahaaaa. Oh–and when I last traveled, to Greece and Turkey, I did bring along a water bottle. Carried it with me on the plane too

Fabulous post! Have fun!

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travel capsule wardrobe europe

How to Build the Perfect Winter Capsule Wardrobe for Travel

By Meaghan Kenny

How to Build the Perfect Winter Travel Capsule Wardrobe

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

One of our very best packing tips is to fill your closet (and suitcase) with reliable staples you can rewear again and again. Of course, those essentials will vary slightly by season. When building a winter travel capsule wardrobe, timeless basics and layering pieces are key. Instead of panic-buying trendy outfits you'll wear once before every vacation, focus on adding a few high-quality pieces to your wardrobe that pair effortlessly with your existing favorites and will last for years to come.

If you think you really have nothing to wear for your next weekend away, we've got you covered with all the basics needed to build your very own winter travel capsule wardrobe from scratch. These are the thermal layers, comfortable shoes, and practical dresses that'll work whether you're headed on an après-ski trip with friends or exploring a new cold-weather city. From cashmere sweaters and cozy matching sets to packable puffers and sleek leather bags, you can count on these multi-purpose must-haves to keep your outfit options endless.

Must-haves for a winter travel capsule wardrobe:

The perfect long-sleeve, the cashmere sweater, the matching set, the tailored pant, the dark wash jean, the winter legging, the packable puffer, the chic city coat, the durable boot, the everyday sneaker, the leather bag.

Dressing for cold weather is all about layering. The perfect base for every winter outfit: a soft, basic long-sleeve shirt that can be easily layered underneath jackets and vests , and be worn on its own, too. Neutral colors are your best bet—they can be tucked into just about any pair of pants you pack and can be reworn with almost any outfit.

travel capsule wardrobe europe

What's better than slipping on your favorite cozy sweater and curling up by the fireplace? Cashmere sweaters look extremely polished when dressed up with a skirt and tights, and work just as well with simple jeans and loafers . The material is known to be ultra-soft, warm, and supremely timeless—you'll be wearing these sweaters for winters to come.

travel capsule wardrobe europe

Every traveler understands the importance of cozy loungewear , especially when it comes to long-haul flights . The secret to dressing comfortably at the airport while still looking put together is a monochromatic matching set. Slip on either of these sets from Buck Mason or Lulus with a pair of white sneakers, baseball cap, and long coat over top and you'll be serving effortless airport style instantly.

travel capsule wardrobe europe

Just because the temperature drops doesn't mean we have to swear off dresses for the season. In fact, simple dresses that can be worn with a pair of tights or tall boots are a great way to elevate your look without sacrificing too much warmth. Below, you'll find a few of our favorite styles to wear this season, from long-sleeve turtle necks and cozy sweater dresses to the viral Soft Lounge dress from Skims. Toss any of these options in your suitcase for your next getaway and you'll be covered for fancy dinners, parties, and any other dressed-up events.

travel capsule wardrobe europe

A sleek pair of pants like these from Abercrombie & Fitch and Everlane are so versatile—they transition from the office to a dinner date effortlessly. Pair them with your favorite loafers or a plain white sneaker and you're ready to go.

travel capsule wardrobe europe

We all need that one favorite pair of jeans. While I love my light-colored jeans most of the year, a dark wash is much more fitting for winter months. We don't need to tell you just how often you'll be wearing these this season. I always pack a high-waisted, straight-leg jean without any rips like the pair below from Madewell in my suitcase—even in the summer months, just in case.

travel capsule wardrobe europe

If I'm not traveling in a loungewear set, I'm rocking my go-to pair of black leggings . This time of year, I trade them in for an extra-warm pair of winter leggings . These are typically lined with a soft material like fleece and offer added insulation for those frigid, snowy days. Thermal leggings especially come in handy for outdoorsy winter trips—whether you're skiing, snowboarding, or just cabin-bound, these will be your new BFF.

travel capsule wardrobe europe

Don't underestimate the power of a packable puffer . Styles like these from Girlfriend Collective and Patagonia offer a surprising amount of warmth for how lightweight and seemingly thin they are. The best part? These compressible jackets can be packed down into a small bag, making them a must-have for travelers with little suitcase room traveling from a warm-weather destination, or bringing multiple coats along.

Image may contain: Clothing, Coat, Jacket, Overcoat, Person, and Adult

If you're headed out for a day of sightseeing, you'll want to throw on a chic long coat that offers equal parts warmth and style. These wool coats are great to wear over a sweatshirt, sweater, or light jacket, and lock in plenty of heat for a full day of exploring.

travel capsule wardrobe europe

If one's things for sure: We'll always rely on a durable boot for the winter. Whether you want something sleek to dress up an outfit, a waterproof workhorse that can take on uneven terrain, or a shearling-lined boot for those extra-windy days, we've got you covered. While boots certainly aren't the most packable shoe you own (if possible, wear them on the plane), they always prove worth it!

travel capsule wardrobe europe

The year-round essential we're packing no matter what: a classic white sneaker . These comfortable kicks from Adidas, Veja, New Balance, and Reebok will match any outfit in your carry-on, whether it's a pair of jeans, leggings, slacks, or a casual dress. When you're walking around a new city clocking upwards of 20,000 steps, you'll definitely want a trusted sneaker you can wear all day long, blister-free. The New Balance 547 Core sneakers have accompanied me on countless trips, from weeklong cruises and winter cabin escapes to European walking tours.

Image may contain: Clothing, Shoe, Footwear, Apparel, and Sneaker

We all know the importance of an ultra-soft, warm scarf to protect our necks from extreme temperatures. Made of winter-ready materials like wool, cashmere, and alpaca, these lightweight scarves are the great for travelers, whether you're commuting to work, headed on a ski trip, or want something to wrap around you on a chilly plane ride. The options below are just as chic as they are practical.

travel capsule wardrobe europe

Rounding out our list of the best winter wardrobe essentials for travelers is none other than a leather bag—the kind you'll wear anywhere and everywhere this season and beyond. We've gathered a few of our favorite styles, from trendy Poléne and Coach bags to last-forever options from Madewell and Cuyana. These crossbody, shoulder, and tote bags are perfect for day trips, museum openings, and dinner dates. I try to save packing space by bringing along a black or brown leather bag that will match any outfit in my carry-on and suit any occasion.

travel capsule wardrobe europe

travel capsule wardrobe europe

The Travel Capsule Wardrobe: Your Key to Leveling Up Your Vacation Style

P recision packing is a true art form. We all know packing for vacation can be stressful. You want to have options for everything on (and off ) your agenda, but you don't want to overpack and overwhelm yourself. Luckily, there's a formula that makes packing a breeze—no matter where you're headed.

Enter the travel capsule wardrobe : your key to balancing practicality with style options to fit your entire itinerary, thanks to versatile pieces that transform seamlessly from outfit to outfit. Of course, how you'll curate this depends on where you're headed and what kind of vacation you're taking, which is where we come in. Ahead, see our guide to building the ideal travel capsule wardrobe for six vacation types , complete with insights from two fashion experts.

Meet the Experts

  • Audree Kate López  is a professional fashion stylist and editor based in New York City.
  • Caroline Maguire is the fashion director at Shopbop.

"It's about choosing the right pieces that are practical yet on-trend/fashionable. I always like to write down my outfits by day to see what I can wear multiple times to save room on packing." — Caroline Maguire, fashion director at Shopbop

On the Road Again

If your road trip finally made it out of the group chat (congrats!), the next step is deciding what outfits you want to wear on your grand adventure. If you've ever spent hours sitting in the car, you know comfort is key, but that doesn't mean style is out of the question. Grab your favorite pair of dad sneakers and pair them with either a matching set or a full-body onesie and oversized jacket ( see a few standout options here )—you'll be enviably cozy while emanating chic athleisure vibes. "I love dressing up, but you will never catch me in tight denim or a restricting top during a road trip," López tells us.

Oceanside Style

Packing for a tropical vacation is slightly easier than a winter getaway, as swimsuits and lightweight dresses take up less space than a puffer coat and snow boots. Still, if you're looking to simplify your packing list, focus on different accessories to change each look. Whether you love a good pair of sunglasses, a bucket hat (we rounded up a few standout options to wear in the sun ), a belt, or jewelry, accessorizing goes a long way.

For a beach getaway, the best travel capsule wardrobe comprises pieces that take you from poolside to dinner with ease. A linen shirt ( check out a few of our favorites here ) doubles as a coverup and looks great tucked into jeans with sandals, while a one-piece bathing suit—a poolside staple—also works as a bodysuit when paired with a miniskirt . "There is no need to pack a ton of extra tops or styling pieces when your swimsuits can be used as a top, bodysuit, undergarments, or layered under a sheer dress," says fashion stylist Audree Kate López.

If you only want to pack one handbag, you can't go wrong with a basket bag to fit all your necessities. "A beach tote can be used during the day at the pool/beach to carry essentials, towels, a book, etc., but can also be used as a carry-on personal item on the plane," López tells us.

Max Elevation

Packing for a mountain getaway may seem daunting, but we have the ultimate outfit formula to stay warm on the slopes and feel chic as you head straight to the lodge for an après-ski hot chocolate. The key to packing for a winter vacation is base layers. "You need to layer up in the mountains, so opt for fleece pullovers and warm hats, plus cute and cozy pieces you can mix and match throughout your stay," says Shopbop fashion director Caroline Maguire.

For a ski trip or other winter travel, you'll obviously need practical outerwear like a down jacket and snow boots, but don't forget to put thought into your base layers to maximize your style options. A turtleneck bodysuit ( see a few of our favorite bodysuits ) layers well under winter gear, plus you can elevate it for nighttime with chic trousers and a cardigan . As for pants, we love the below moto puffer style by Alo, as it works overtime as both regular cargo pants and a ski option.

Take On the City

The key to versatile and stylish packing for a city trip is channeling quiet luxury , proving the trend's staying power yet again. Think Sofia Richie Grainge 's style, including tailored basics and understated accessories. Rather than packing five different bags, choose a style with straps that you can adapt between shoulder and crossbody styles, like the below option from Brandon Blackwood. Pack a comfortable pair of black booties (the lower the heels, the better, since you'll be doing a lot of walking). "Avoid uncomfortable 'trendy' shoes and pack items that you can wear pretty much all day without needing to go back to the hotel and change," López tells us. A good pair of leather boots— like any of these —can go with any look.

Lastly, a city travel capsule wardrobe is best with a good coat and blazer to style with any outfit. Then you'll be able to swap out basics like a white tee, jeans, and a little black dress to create a range of sophisticated ensembles to fit everything on your agenda.

High Seas Fashion

When you're about to set sail on the trip of a lifetime, what do you pack? While you'll probably be soaking up a lot of sun on a cruise, it's important to remember that after the sun sets, it can get pretty chilly. Thus, a lightweight cardigan (we love these cashmere options ) will be your go-to from day to night when you need an extra layer. Additionally, a lightweight matching set like the one below from Abercrombie is an ideal option for packing light amid changing temps, as you can wear it together or separately to create a whole range of looks. "Pack easy day-to-night styles—things you can lounge in during the day by the pool or on [an] island, and then dress up easily for dinner and a show," Maguire advises.

One with Nature

Whether you're an outdoorsy type who loves camping or prefer the glamping experience, you'll want to be prepared to face the elements, and you can absolutely do so in style. A raincoat or windbreaker (ideally a two-in-one jacket) is a necessity, and these days, the market truly has all-weather pieces to fit every taste—the below water-resistant parka from Totême is a sophisticated, versatile option. You'll also need a good pair of sneakers for hiking , and it's a bonus if they're also waterproof.

"I am a glamper myself and love it," Maguire tells us. "You'll need layers for a camping trip. Go for an oversize flannel button-up and your favorite pair of denim —even overalls could be fun here." Look for moisture-wicking items for practicality and layer them with trend-forward pieces like a plaid flannel shacket.

Up Next: Why Princess Diana Is the Ultimate Vacation Style Icon

Read the original article on Byrdie .

@sofiarichiegrainge / @jastookes / Instagram / Byrdie

travel capsule wardrobe europe

Travel Fashion Girl

How to Pack Carry-on Only for 2 Weeks in Europe in Winter

Europe Packing List , Packing , Travel Packing Lists

two-week-winter-trip-to-europe

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One of our readers recently traveled carry-on only for two weeks to Europe in the dead of winter—an impressive feat. Traveling carry-on only for two weeks can be tricky enough, yet alone in freezing temperatures. Find out how she did it!

Traveling to Europe in the summer? Read this post!

Two Weeks in Europe in the Winter

By: Stephanie Su

Table Of Contents

There is one major difference between being at home in the winter and traveling when it’s cold: the amount of time you’ll spend outdoors.

When you’re traveling, you’ll likely spend extended periods of time outdoors sightseeing. Don’t be unprepared.

For a little more help, the video shared below can also give ideas on how to choose winter clothing.

Choosing clothing for winter just got easier—watch this video to learn more!

Start by reading these general tips on packing for winter travel:

  • Winter Packing List for Cold Weather
  • Capsule Wardrobe for Winter
  • How to Pack for Cold Weather
  • How to Stay Warm in Cold Weather (without the bulk)
  • The Best Travel Shoes for Winter

Stephanie Su just came back from a two-week trip to Slovakia, Austria , and Germany ! It was a proper winter, with highs of only 37 degrees Fahrenheit and lows of 25 degrees Fahrenheit, plus wind and snow on occasion.

You can still pack your travel capsule wardrobe in a small suitcase even when you travel in cold weather by using packing cubes to compress your clothing as shown in this video !

This is her experience packing carryon only for this trip:

For this trip, I visited major cities, including Bratislava, Vienna, Salzburg, and Munich, as well as mountainous villages and surrounding hiking areas, such as Hallstatt and Berchtesgaden.

My total carry-on bag weight was 9.5kg. Yikes! I wasn’t too happy about that. Luckily, the airlines didn’t give me any trouble about it (I flew with Ryanair and Eurowings), but I was still annoyed that I had cut down the size of my bag but still was carrying so much weight.

Here’s what I packed:

two-week-winter-trip-to-europe

Osprey Ozone 2-Wheel Carry-On 40L/21.5 in Blue | Black New version of Ozone

For this trip, I traveled carry-on. I’m a very minimalist solo traveler. My main bag for this trip was the Osprey Ozone 35L backpack ( now sold out ) , which I chose because it’s so lightweight (less than two pounds). However, the Osprey Ozone 35 L is currently sold out but here’s  a similar one .

For me, this shift to carry-on only travel has actually resulted in a whole lifestyle change for in how I buy, own, and value things.

Prefer a wheeled suitcase? Read our Osprey Ozone 46 review – it’s wheeled!

two-week-winter-trip-to-europe

Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Mini Shoulder Bag

I also brought this Anti-Theft Shoulder Bag . It’s just okay. It’s slightly bigger and heavier than I had expected.

I had bought it to try and replace an older cross body purse but it didn’t feel quite right to me. I like its lockable zippers and sleek, fashionable (enough) look, but it’s just not very useful for the kind of traveling I do. I mostly use it on travel days and when I go out for meals by myself and want to bring a book with me.

Read these articles for other anti-theft products included purses:

  • Money Belts and Anti-theft Accessories
  • Best Anti-theft Bags for Women
  • 6 Tools to Protect Your From Pickpockets in Europe
  • 10 Tried and Tested Anti-theft Travel Tips
Read these tips on how to keep your passport safe when you travel !

two-week-winter-trip-to-europe

Fjallraven Kanken Classic Pack

For my day bag, I used a Fjallraven Kanken 16L , which I love. I’ve found that backpacks work better for me than satchels or cross body purses. Hence my Kanken.

Here are other cute backpack purses for travel!

Packing List for Europe in Winter

I kept my Europe packing list pretty basic, focusing on layers and a few heavier outer layers.

  • 1 Smartwool merino wool blend tank in black
  • 2 Icebreaker long-sleeve merino wool shirts in black and teal
  • 1 Uniqlo packable down vest  in white
  • 1 lightweight sweater in black
  • 1 fuzzy wool and mohair blend sweater in green
  • 1 pair of black travel pants in black
  • 1 pair of Athleta Jeggings  in wine
  • 1 pair of Icebreaker merino wool leggings   in black
  • 1 pair of fleece-lined leggings in black
  • 1 leather mini-skirt in black
  • 1 Ibex Reese tunic in teal
  • 1 black coat
  • 1 cotton shirt and 1 pair of ankle pants for pajamas
  • 1 nude bra and 1 black bra
  • 1 sports bra
  • 4 pairs of Smartwool merino socks
  • 7 pairs of underwear
  • 1 convertible blanket scarf/shawl in black and grey
  • 1 pair of gloves
Read this Europe winter packing list for a complete clothing list for cold weather!

two-week-winter-trip-to-europe

UGG Ashton Waterproof Leather Boot

For shoes, I packed just two pairs. The first was a pair of flip-flops , which I wore in the hostel showers.

The other was a pair of Ugg Wilde waterproof boots in slate ( which is now sold out) . I’ve raved about these boots on other posts in the Travel Fashion Girl Facebook group before, but now I can say it loud and proud: these are the BEST boots for lightweight winter travel. While the boots Alex packed were the UGG Wilde, they are sadly out of stock, but the  Ashton leather waterproof boots are similar to the Wilde and so versatile! 

They’re warm and comfortable even after walking around for eight hours. They also look stylish enough to wear in the cities yet sturdy enough for hiking on forest paths. They didn’t have as much traction as I would’ve liked in icy conditions, but I just made sure to step carefully and I was fine. These are SO, SO, SO GOOD. (I even cover more on proper winter shoes in the video below!)

Watch this video to get the lowdown on the best shoes for winter!

Find out what our readers rate as the best waterproof boots for winter travel !

two-week-winter-trip-to-europe

  Newvanga Travel Adapter

Electronics

I had to bring a few electronics with me, which fit well in my backpack:

  • MacBook Air 11”
  • Fuji x-T2 mirrorless camera with 18-55mm kit lens
  • International plug adaptor
  • Assorted chargers

I would rather not have brought my laptop with me, but I needed to work on essays (I’m doing my Master’s right now). I love photography, so the camera weight is something I put up with.

The Fujifilm X-T2 Mirrorless Digital Camera is often considered the best travel camera because it’s smaller and lighter than an entry-level DSLR yet just as powerful, if not more. If you’re curious, my last camera was a Canon Rebel T3i, and the Fuji loads better in terms of picture quality.

The voltage is different in Europe and the USA! Read this guide before you travel!

two-week-winter-trip-to-europe

Sea to Summit Hanging Toiletry Bag

Toiletries and Other Necessities

For toiletries and other essentials, I packed a few standard items:

  • 1 Lush solid shampoo
  • 1 travel-sized conditioner
  • 1 full-sized collapsible Wet Brush
  • A few travel-sized razors
  • 2 skinny packing cubes for my clothing
  • 1 travel towel
  • 1 collapsible shopping bag
  • 1 travel clothesline
  • 1 silk sleep liner
Check out our top ten best toiletry bags for travel !

Beyond my essentials that I packed in my backpack, I carried a few other items in my crossbody bag:

  • 1 Lonely Planet Austria book
  • 1 chapstick
  • My passport, cards, and other travel documents

I only ended up using the cross body bag on travel days because I preferred to use my Fjallraven Kanken Backpack when I was out and about. I could have done without the Lonely Planet book, but I wanted to have it for this trip.

In the future, I’d like to get a lighter toiletry bag and avoid having to take my laptop.

Download our free printable travel checklist for a complete packing list including toiletries and beauty products!

two-week-winter-trip-to-europe

Compass Rose Packing Cubes

What I Did Right and What I’d Change Next Time

Thoughts on my packing after the trip? I’m quite happy and wouldn’t have added anything else. My bag was full, but not so full that I couldn’t squeeze in some gifts to bring back with me. However, packing everything is another matter!

Packing cubes can help organize all the layers you have in mind for winter travels. The Compass Rose brand of slim packing cubes has a unique color and numbering system, so it’s easy to remember where you’ve packed everything. The video below helps demonstrate how they work.

Learn our hacks with packing cubes in the video above!

My most surprisingly useful clothing item was the mohair blend sweater. It’s quite ugly but it was basically so ugly that it could be considered fashionable again! The main thing was that it turned me into a little furnace.

My typical outfit on days when I knew I’d be spending a long time outdoors was to wear the Icebreaker layer, mohair sweater, Ibex tunic, black coat, Icebreaker leggings, pants/trousers, blanket scarf, and done! With this combination, I even felt too warm, especially after uphill walks!

two-week-winter-trip-to-europe

TFG readers recommend: Uniqlo Merino Wool V Neck Sweater

Instead of the cheap acrylic black sweater, I wish I had brought another merino wool sweater , which I would’ve gotten more use out of, but at the time I didn’t own another similar sweater. (Read why merino wool is the best fabric for travel.)

The Uniqlo Merino Wool V Neck Sweater , which is featured above and made of 100% merino wool is a packable item that will provide warmth, without overheating the body. TFG readers love it so much especially for winter travel!  

I didn’t really need the vest or wear it that much, but it was lightweight and super packable, so it was fine. I hand washed items when needed, but because most of what I’d brought was merino wool, they really didn’t need that much washing.

As for shoes, I’m completely content with the one pair of boots I packed ( UGG WIlde ) which is now sold out but here’s a similar one and never once wanted for another pair of shoes.

For more tips, read our complete year round packing guide for Europe !

What’s on your packing list for a 2 week winter trip in Europe? Please comment below!

For more Europe packing tips, please read:

  • 10-Step Packing Guide for Europe
  • How to Choose the Best Shoes for Europe
  • What to Wear in Europe: Packing List for Every Destination
  • The Only Packing List for Europe You’ll Ever Need!

Suggested travel resources:

  • Lonely Planet Europe on a Shoestring
  • Travel Shoes for Europe
  • The Best Carry-on Suitcases for Europe

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I hope you liked this packing list for 2 weeks winter trip in Europe. Please share it with your friends on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest. Thanks for reading!

22 comments.

Suzie

This is a great list! We are doing the Christmas Market Cruise this Dec, and I found so helpful. Thank you!

Anne G

Hi Susie… so am I! Leaving Dec 13 Viking from Amsterdam. I am absolutely freaking out. Need to pack clothes for outdoor Christmas Markets plus nicer stuff for dinner and after. Heard it was very cold last year. Hoping to get some good ideas. Good luck!

Ellen Arnold

Thank you for the detailed packing list and links. Heading to Vienna, Prague and Budapest in December. You’ve inspired me to cut down on bringing too many clothes. I’m going to do a dry run to see if I can do all in a carry on. I’ve been looking Uniqlo merino sweaters. I don’t really wear leggings – what do you suggest instead?

Meg

Great suggestions! Thank you!

Heather Karl

Thanks for the information! I am combining this info with the Italy packing recommendations to try and figure out what to pack for Southern Italy (Rome, Naples, Pompeii, Sorrento, and Agnone) in December!

Erin

I was looking for a comfortable, waterproof & cute pair of boots for my upcoming trip to Germany and I love the UGG ones you suggested!

Allie Glazer

Super thrilled for this blog post- my husband and I are heading to Berlin for two weeks in October/November and this will be just the ticket to ease prepping for the trip. I also shared your mailing list with my mother in law, who is an extensive traveler! Thanks for all you do.

MJ

Thank you so much for this post especially the lessons learned at the end. All of the European packing lists have been very helpful for my upcoming trip. I’m planning carry on only and using a Tom Bihn Aeronaut 30 for my main carryon. Thoughts on the Pacsafe LS350 for both a personal item and daily sightseeing bag?

Alex

I am afraid that we don’t have any feedback to share about the Pacsafe but you might find this article helpful for tips on choosing the best travel purse: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/travel-day-bag/

We also have more reader recommendations for anti-theft purses here: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/top-5-anti-theft-travel-bags-for-women-best-sellers/

To get the best feedback about the Pacsafe you’re interested, I would recommend 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.

Hope this helps. Have an amazing time on your travels!

Lindsey Rentschler

Thanks so much for sharing this information. It’s been very helpful for one trip this summer and I’m using more posts to pack for winter travel.

Susan

I have been reading this, so excited for our Winter trip to London and Paris AND just ordered the Nomad Lane bag for my husband. Your newsletter AND Facebook group have been my lifeline during these stressful times, and a girlfriend and I obsess over so many posts. Thank you for your extensive knowledge – unbelieveable with a little one!

Suzanne Tower

I’m excited to be going on a Christmas market cruise this coming December. I’ve read and reread so many posts that have provided me with so much useful information. Thank you!

Anne

Nice list you have here Alex! Arc’teryx and Osprey are two of my favorite brands for travel bags. I also bring thermal water bottle with me when travelling during winter.

Hi Anne, thank you for your feedback, so pleased you enjoyed the article! ? Thank you for sharing your favorite brands with us. Happy travels!

Allison

I’m looking for the items you mentioned in the video such as the Vera Wang pants, and the packing cubes. I don’t see links to those anywhere. Can you please provide? Thanks!

Hi Allison, this post was written by a guest writer so I am afraid that we are not sure about the pants but would assume since they are no longer linked in the post that they are no longer available.

For the packing cubes, it is the Compass Rose cubes: https://amzn.to/2Vo5F4x

Hope this helps.

Vanessa Reynoso

This is a great list for a 2 week trip!! It takes some trial and error to find the right combo for winter exploring- and this is perfect. Nice article:)

Hi Vanessa, so pleased you enjoyed this article and found it helpful for your own packing!!! ? Happy travels! ?

Allie

Currently sorting out my gear for our 6 week Europe trip. List looks very similar to mine but I have placed in 1 nice outfit ( dinner on effiel tower for my 40th). The rest I’ve got jeans with merino layers, wool and thermal type. Since we are away for so long I intend to send stuff back half way in our trip (souviners etc). I’ve also got a new mirrorless camera that weights a bit and a new laptop but that weighs less than kg. Going from Australia where it could be 30c+ when we leave and get back to about -30c in Finland.

Hi Allie, great job with your packing list, sounds fantastic!! Happy 40th birthday, have the most phenomenal time! ❤️

Natalia

I love the idea of an anti-theft bag!

alex

Thanks! Our readers love them ?

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travel capsule wardrobe europe

COMMENTS

  1. How to Create the Perfect Travel Capsule Wardrobe (2023)

    In terms of how many pieces should be in a travel capsule wardrobe, it will vary depending on the amount of travel you do, and the kinds of trips you take. In general, a good starting place is to have 15 pieces in your travel capsule wardrobe. A 15-piece travel capsule wardrobe is the perfect foundation, and will work for most trips.

  2. Travel Capsule Wardrobe: What to Pack for a Trip to Europe

    (Naot Pixie Sandal) Find stylish walking shoes for travel. One of the most important things I wanted to find for my travel capsule wardrobe was stylish walking shoes for travel.Since we'd be walking many miles per day, I wanted to find comfortable walking shoes for Europe that also didn't scream Tourist!Alex scoured the internet in search of the perfect stylish walking shoes for travel ...

  3. Chic & Easy European Travel Packing List

    Europe; Travel; Chic & Easy European Travel Packing List. By. Laura - February 16, 2022. 9. 50459. Share. Facebook. Twitter. Pinterest. ... I'm probably gonna bring a similar wardrobe to a variety of locales. For my style, that includes versatile pieces that layer well, can be easily dressed up or down, and have a classic, slightly sporty ...

  4. Travel Capsule Wardrobe: How to Dress Like A European

    Here are a few packing tips to help you dress like a European: Stick to classic clothing, you can also dare to be trendy with some pieces because it is Europe after all. Wear neutral colors. Bring comfortable walking shoes that look elevated. Leave the athleisure wear and logos at home.

  5. Ultimate Travel Capsule Wardrobe for Europe in the Summer

    This makes it easier to travel with less. Mix and Match. The first rule with capsule wardrobes is that everything must be able to mix and match with your other clothing items. All bottoms must be able to be worn with all tops. It's also important to have a top layer that can be worn with each item too. Color Palette.

  6. The Travel Capsule Wardrobe: Versatile Packing at its Finest

    The Travel Capsule Wardrobe: The Rule of 3. The answer is to follow one simple rule - the rule of 3. This is more than wearing every piece you pack at least 3 times. Pack all items with the intention of wearing each item in a variety of outfits that work in at least three different occasion types. This could be dressy, professional, and casual.

  7. 10 Essential Pieces for a Spring Capsule Wardrobe in Europe

    7. Button down shirt or blouse. Adding a button-down shirt or blouse to your spring capsule wardrobe offers even more versatility for your European getaway. A crisp button-down shirt in a classic white or light blue hue can be easily dressed up or down, pairing well with jeans, skirts, or layered under a sweater.

  8. How To Pack A Fall 2022 Travel Capsule Wardrobe For Europe

    The best way to avoid this mini travel disaster is to pack a travel capsule wardrobe and pack a carry-on bag only. Use this sample capsule as a guide for planning your travel wardrobe. The pieces in this capsule can stand alone or are meant to coordinate with other layers. This travel capsule wardrobe can take you from 7 days to 1 month or more ...

  9. Your Ultimate Travel Capsule Wardrobe: 40 Outfit Ideas from 13 Pieces!

    Sharing over 40 travel outfit ideas from 13 pieces to create the ultimate travel capsule wardrobe with 6 tops, 3 bottoms, 3 shoes, and minimal accessories! ... I'll be in Europe again smiling when I get dressed thinking of how you showed us what to wear to explore, for dinner and just for feeling beautiful. Keep up the good work, we're ...

  10. The Essential European Travel Capsule Packing Guide for Fall 2023

    The "TRAVELISTA 12" Carry on Capsule. For this Fall European Travel Wardrobe Capsule I'm introducing the " TRAVELISTA 12 ": a streamlined packing blueprint to elevate your travel wardrobe consisting of 12 clothing items. The framework is simple and is in an a easy to remember 4,3,2,2,1 formula. 4 tops. 3 bottoms.

  11. The Only Travel Capsule Wardrobe Checklist You'll Ever Need (cheat

    3-6 tops. 1-2 jumpers/hoodies. 2-4 bottoms. 1-3 dresses/rompers. 1-2 outerwear. 2-3 pairs of shoes. I aim for 10, but follow this process to find the perfect number of pieces for your travel capsule wardrobe.

  12. The Ultimate Guide to Packing for Europe in Fall

    Once you've researched the weather, you can focus on creating a travel capsule wardrobe, which should easily fit in a carry-on suitcase with the help of packing cubes to compress your clothing. Using tips from our readers, we've compiled the ultimate guide to packing for Europe in fall. Packing List for Europe Fall Travel

  13. The Exact Clothing I Packed for 2 Weeks in Europe

    Countries I Visited: Italy, Switzerland, France, England. Weather in June: 55F - 82F (13C - 28C) This was my Europe Packing List for 2 Weeks in Summer: How I Packed My Clothing. Packing Cube #1: Main Clothes. Packing Cube #2: Additional Clothing. Packing Cube #3: Pajamas, Underwear. The Outfit I Rewear on Travel Days.

  14. europe travel tips

    Style at a Certain Age. yesterday, i shared my five must-have travel wardrobe staples and my goal to pack light for our trip to europe. read it here if you missed that post. today, it's all about my black and white capsule wardrobe. but first, here are a few items that make it into my carry-on. don't ever pack anything other than clothes ...

  15. How to Build the Perfect Winter Capsule Wardrobe for Travel

    How to Build the Perfect Winter Capsule Wardrobe for Travel. Fill your packing list with warm winter basics, from cashmere sweaters and cozy matching sets to packable puffers. By Meaghan Kenny ...

  16. How to Pack a Fall Carry-On Capsule for Europe

    Step 2 - Build your Core Capsule. Build your core capsule according to your travel activities and weather. Your core capsule will cover your major travel activities and serve as the basis for the rest of your travel wardrobe. It will generally consist of about 8-10 items depending on the length of your trip.

  17. The Ultimate Guide to Packing for Europe in Summer

    Once you've researched the weather, you can focus on creating a travel capsule wardrobe, which should easily fit in a carryon suitcase with the help of packing cubes to compress your clothing. Start by reading these general tips on packing for summer travel: Capsule Wardrobe for Summer; Best Walking Shoes for Europe's Cobblestone Streets

  18. The Travel Capsule Wardrobe: Your Key to Leveling Up Your ...

    Enter the travel capsule wardrobe: your key to balancing practicality with style options to fit your entire itinerary, thanks to versatile pieces that transform seamlessly from outfit to outfit.Of ...

  19. The Ultimate Guide to Packing for Europe in Spring

    Once you've researched the weather, you can focus on creating a travel capsule wardrobe, which should easily fit in a carryon suitcase with the help of packing cubes to compress your clothing. Spring in Europe runs from March through May and can be a beautiful time to visit, as the temperature is warming up and the tourists have yet to arrive.

  20. Men's Summer Capsule Wardrobe for Travel and Beyond [2024 Edition]

    Summer Capsule Wardrobe for Europe Trip For traveling across Europe in the summer, include versatile pieces like a classic white button-down , made from breathable fabrics like linen and cotton, chino shorts in neutral colors like beige, navy, or black, comfortable walking shoes for exploring cities, and stylish blazer for evening dining in ...

  21. Pin by Vicentina Magalhaes on guarda roupa inteligente in 2024

    Europe Outfits. Europe Outfits Summer. Europe Fashion. Includes sponsored products. Alisha. Inspiration. Summer. ... Travel Capsule Wardrobe Summer. Carry-On Only Vacation Capsule Wardrobe - Affordable by Amanda. Carry-On Only Vacation Capsule Wardrobe 2024 - How to Create the Ultimate Beach Vacation Capsule Wardrobe - Resort Wear Outfit Ideas ...

  22. How to Pack Carry-on Only for 2 Weeks in Europe in Winter

    1 nude bra and 1 black bra. 1 sports bra. 4 pairs of Smartwool merino socks. 7 pairs of underwear. 1 convertible blanket scarf/shawl in black and grey. 1 pair of gloves. 1 hat. Read this Europe winter packing list for a complete clothing list for cold weather! UGG Ashton Waterproof Leather Boot.