Planning a trip to Europe next summer? Then you can’t miss out on our Packing List for Europe in Summer, the ultimate guide to ensuring you have everything you need in your suitcase. From travel essentials to smart packing tips, we’ve gathered all our best advice to help you travel light and in style.
What to pack for a European vacation
Temperatures in Europe can vary greatly during the summer, depending on your destination. Coastal Mediterranean cities enjoy warm weather, sunny days, and high temperatures. In contrast, higher cities, like those in the Swiss Alps, have cooler temperatures. But I imagine if you’re looking forward to the European summer, your destinations are the beautiful coastal cities and stunning beaches of Europe.
So, as part of your packing list for Europe in summer, you can start preparing your light and comfortable clothes, preferably made of breathable fabrics like cotton and linen, comfortable shoes, and plenty of accessories to enjoy the best season in Europe.
And before packing your suitcase, always remember: quality over quantity. So, choose your clothes for their quality, good fabric, and colors that are easy to match. This way, you’ll avoid carrying too many clothes that won’t be used during the trip. Also, prefer accessories and shoes that match as many of your outfits as possible.
Essential clothing and accessories
The key to packing for Europe lies in versatility and adaptability, making it crucial to have a well-thought-out packing list for Europe. Whether you’re visiting cafes in Paris or enjoying a beach in Ibiza, your wardrobe should be ready for anything. Therefore, choose versatile clothes for day and night, like a piece that works for a daytime stroll but can be dressed up with some accessories for a perfect dinner or bar outfit.
Moreover, when choosing accessories, prefer those that not only make you look more stylish but are also useful. A quality hat and a pair of sunglasses will protect you from the European sun, while a light scarf can provide warmth on cooler nights or modesty in religious buildings. A sturdy yet stylish cross body bag keeps your essentials safe and your hands free, perfect for busy market days or capturing that perfect photo. After all, the goal is to pack smartly and not forget any essentials.
To ensure you’re well-prepared for your summer trip through Europe, we’ve put together a list of essential clothes and accessories:
- Light and breathable tops: T-shirts, tank tops, and blouses made from materials like cotton or linen are perfect for hot days, allowing your skin to breathe and keeping you cool.
- Versatile pants and shorts: Opt for light cotton or linen pants and shorts for comfort during the day. Choose neutral colors for easy matching with other pieces.
- Flowy dresses and skirts: Dresses and skirts are versatile and easy to dress up for a day out or an elegant evening. Moreover, dresses are synonymous with summer and offer the advantage of being a single piece, eliminating concerns about matching.
- Light layers for the evening: Even in summer, some European nights can be cooler. A thin knit or light sweater is perfect for layering over T-shirts or dresses. Or, take a linen blazer that can stylishly protect against the wind or a sweatshirt that offers comfort on chilly nights.
- Sunhat or cap: A wide-brimmed hat not only adds a touch of style but also protects your face and neck from the strong sun. For the more casual folks, caps also fulfill this function with style.
- Sunglasses: Protect your eyes from intense glare and UV rays with a pair of good-quality sunglasses. They’re essential for sunny days, whether in the city or at the beach.
- Light scarves: A scarf can serve as sun protection, a stylish accessory, or even a light shoulder cover in places of worship. Depending on the scarf, you might also use it as a top to complement your looks.
- Sturdy bag or backpack: A crossbody bag or small backpack is ideal for carrying your essentials during the day, keeping your hands free for taking photos, or holding a gelato.
- Underwear: Don’t forget to pack enough socks and underwear for the duration of your trip. The amount of underwear to bring is personal. We tend to overpack in this aspect, so for a week’s trip, we usually bring an average of seven pants and three bras.
- Socks: Socks are essential if you’re bringing sneakers or other closed shoes on your trip. Our suggestion is to bring at least three pairs of socks for each week of travel.
- Sleepwear: Don’t forget to pack a comfortable pajama set; for longer trips, you might need two pairs.
- Swimwear: Pack at least two swimsuits to ensure you always have a dry one ready.
Footwear for every occasion
The wrong shoes can create discomfort and inconvenience on your trip. Many European cities, especially historic ones, feature steep and uneven cobblestone streets. And we know that walking tours through cities usually last several hours and cover many kilometers. Thus, comfortable, breathable, and versatile shoes are a must-have on your packing list for Europe in the summer.
- Comfortable Walking Shoes: Essential for days spent walking around, especially exploring historic sites and bustling cities. Look for sneakers with good arch support and resilient soles, offering both comfort and style.
- Lightweight and Breathable Sandals: For the warm European summer nights, choose sandals with cushioned insoles, perfect for comfortable sunset walks or seaside strolls. Moreover, if you choose a versatile sandal, you can use it for daytime outings too. If you enjoy elegant and stylish nights out, bringing a special shoe for such occasions is a good choice.
- Flip-Flops: If you’re traveling to the beach, don’t forget to bring a pair of rubber flip-flops or sandals for beach or pool use. They’re easy to slip on, practical, and help protect your feet on hot sand or slippery surfaces. Even if you’re not heading to the beach, flip-flops can be useful for shower use.
- Trail Shoes: For adventurers planning on hiking, a pair of trail shoes is crucial.
Gadgets and electronics to bring along
In a technology-dominated era, some gadgets have become essential to our travel routine. Here’s a list of electronics you shouldn’t forget when packing for Europe in the summer:
- Smartphone with a Good Data Plan: Your smartphone is your map, tour guide, camera, and much more. Ensure you have a good international data plan or purchase a local SIM card for internet access wherever you are.
- Power Bank: Exploring all day can drain your phone’s battery quickly. A high-capacity power bank ensures your devices stay charged during long outings.
- Universal Plug Adapter and Voltage Converter: Outlets and voltages can vary significantly in Europe. A universal adapter, and if necessary, a voltage converter, are essential for charging your devices.
- Digital Camera or Action Cam: For photography enthusiasts or those wanting to capture outdoor adventures, a high-quality camera or action cam can be a great addition to your bag. But remember, for those packing light, a good smartphone and power bank can ensure beautiful photos and videos throughout your trip.
- Kindle or Tablet: Ideal for relaxation moments or long train and plane journeys, a Kindle or tablet with your favorite books and magazines can be an excellent companion.
- Noise-Canceling Headphones: Perfect for listening to music, watching movies, or simply blocking out noise on a long flight.
- Smartwatch or Fitness Tracker: For fitness enthusiasts, these devices can help monitor your health and activity as you explore new cities.
Important travel documents
In our technology-dominated era, certain gadgets have seamlessly integrated into our travel essentials, making them indispensable for any journey. As you compile your packing list for Europe in the summer, don’t overlook these crucial electronics.
- Valid Passport: Your passport is the most important document. Ensure it’s valid for at least six months beyond your planned return date. Some countries also require blank visa pages.
- Visas (if required): Check the visa requirements for the countries you plan to visit. Some may allow visa-free entry for short stays, while others may require a visa obtained in advance.
- Travel Insurance: Never underestimate the importance of travel insurance. It can be a lifesaver in medical emergencies, trip cancellations, or lost luggage situations.
- International Driving Permit (if planning to drive): If you intend to rent a car, an international driving permit might be required, along with your national driver’s license.
- Copies of Documents: Make physical and digital copies of all your important documents. Keep copies separate from the originals, and consider storing digital versions in a secure cloud storage service.
- Itineraries and Reservations: Print or have digital copies accessible of your flight, hotel, car rental, and any pre-booked tour reservations. This not only facilitates check-ins but also serves as proof of your planned stay for immigration.
- Credit and Debit Cards: Inform your bank about your travel plans and confirm your cards’ international compatibility. Having more than one payment option is always a good idea.
- Emergency Contact Information: Have a list of local emergency numbers for the countries you’ll visit, as well as the nearest embassy or consulate contact.
- Vaccinations: If the country you’re visiting requires certain vaccinations, ensure you carry proof of vaccination with you.
- Pen: Always have a pen in your bag; you never know when you might need to sign an important document.
Personal care and toiletries
When packing for a summer in Europe, it’s crucial to think about personal care and hygiene items with efficiency in mind. To help you cover all bases without overpacking, here’s a streamlined checklist suited for your European summer adventure:
- Sunscreen for Face and Body: An indispensable item for summer to keep your skin protected against the sun’s rays. Choose a sunscreen with a high SPF (minimum 30) to shield your skin during long days in the sun.
- Oral Hygiene Kit: A toothbrush, toothpaste, and dental floss are essentials. Opt for travel sizes to save space.
- Deodorant: Given the summer heat, deodorant is a must-have. Solid formats tend to take up less space and are not restricted on flights.
- Hair Care Products: Bar shampoos and conditioners are great space savers and prevent leaks. Don’t forget a good hair tie or bandana for warmer days.
- Feminine Hygiene Products: In addition to the usual items, consider tampons or a menstrual cup for practicality and space efficiency.
- Wet Wipes: Perfect for quick hygiene during outings or long train journeys.
- Basic Medications: A small kit with common pain relievers, band-aids, and stomach ailment medicines can be a lifesaver.
- Lip Balm: Keep your lips moisturized, especially after long days outdoors.
- Facial and Body Moisturizer: The sun can leave the skin quite sensitive, so a good moisturizer for the body and face will keep your skin more hydrated, healthy, and beautiful.
Items for safety and convenience
Safety and convenience are two things we value highly on our travels, so over the years, some items that make our trips easier have become indispensable for us. We’ve decided to share these items with you:
- VPN: Essential in our travels for making Wi-Fi connections more secure and allowing access to any website or app from any country.
- Portable Scale: After we started traveling with a portable scale, the fear of luggage exceeding the weight limit disappeared, and we never had to open our luggage at the airport to remove weight again.
- Door Lock with Alarm: Safety measures are always welcome, and I confess that sometimes we don’t feel completely safe in hotels or Airbnb. Thus, a security lock for doors has become an essential item in our luggage.
- Language Apps: Europe is a continent of great linguistic diversity. A language app can be a lifesaver in countries where you don’t speak the local language, making everything from asking for directions to make new friends easier.
- Insulated Water Bottle: Staying hydrated is essential, especially during the hot summer days. A reusable water bottle or cup is not only eco-friendly but also saves money considering the cost of bottled water at tourist sites. We always prefer thermal options because water heats up very quickly in a regular bottle during hot days, while an insulated bottle ensures cold water throughout the day.
Efficient packing tips and techniques
Packing involves much more than simply deciding what to bring. It’s about organizing your items in a way that maximizes space and minimizes worries. Here are some strategies we use to efficiently organize our luggage:
- Choose the Right Luggage: Start with a lightweight and durable suitcase. Backpacks are ideal for those who prefer more freedom, while wheeled suitcases offer more space and ease of transport on regular floors.
- Layered Clothing: Pack pieces that can be easily mixed and matched to create different looks suitable for varying temperatures. Remember, thin layers take up less space and are more versatile than bulky items.
- Use Packing Organizers: They help efficiently organize your luggage by dividing it into manageable sections. Moreover, they make it easier for you to find desired items without having to unpack your entire suitcase.
- Vacuum Bags: For bulkier items, such as coats or beach towels, vacuum bags can significantly reduce the space they occupy. They’re particularly useful for longer trips or for those who need to bring a wider variety of items.
- Minimize Toiletries: Opt for miniature versions of your essential products, and consider using reusable containers for shampoos and conditioners. Solid items, like bar soaps and shampoos, are excellent for saving space and avoiding issues with liquid limits on flights. For longer trips, consider purchasing basic items like shampoo or deodorant upon arrival at your destination to save luggage space.
Packing list for Europe in summer
Wrapping up your summer Euro trip packing list might seem like a daunting task, but with a dash of planning and a sprinkle of savvy packing, you’ll be zipping up that suitcase with ease.
Remember, it’s all about packing smart – versatile outfits, comfy shoes for those long city strolls, and a few tech gadgets to keep you connected and snapping those picturesque moments. Throw in some essential toiletries, and you’re golden! And hey, if you forget something, it’s the perfect excuse to shop for local treasures. So, keep it light, keep it efficient, and most importantly, have an absolute blast exploring the stunning landscapes and vibrant cultures of Europe.
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