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Packing tips for your next trip!
You’re excited about the upcoming European journey but don’t know what to bring? We have some useful packing tips and suggestions for you. Of course, everyone has a different packing system (I tend to overpack!) and comfort level regarding weather, so feel free to use this list however you see fit.
My favorite time to visit Europe is the shoulder season, which means warmer temperatures in the daytime, and cooler mornings and evenings.
Depending on your destination and the season, some of these items below may not make sense for you, but this might be a good starting point to get you thinking about your own must-pack list.
My packing mantra is this – the lighter my suitcase is, the more souvenirs I can bring back! 😊
So, what would I pack? Read on:
Weather can be unpredictable, and I like to be prepared for rain, so that it doesn’t stop me from enjoying my trip. Layers are a must for me, and I prefer to have clothing options that are warmer than I may need.
I really love Eddie Bauer outerwear – they have great, packable jacket options that are lightweight, warm and weather-resistant. They range in colors and styles – from very warm parkas to light rain jackets, depending on your preference and outside temps at your destination. They also carry base layers, pants, shorts, and a variety of gear for enjoying the outdoors in all seasons.
Here are a few of my favorites:
Back to unpredictable weather – don’t forget an umbrella! There are so many options for light, portable umbrellas in any color you can dream of. Additionally, it can be a fashionable accessory and at the same time help keep you warm and dry if there’s a downpour.
Good, comfortable shoes are a must! For me, that’s a pair of sneakers for dry days and a pair of low-heeled boots for wet weather. Brands like Ecco, Cole Haan, Vionic, and Johnston and Murphy are all great options, and I have owned a wide selection of their shoes, from sandals to winter boots.
Cole Haan has a wide selection of sneakers that I love – in all kinds of styles and variations, from super supportive to casual slip-on. Comfort is a must since I will be on my feet all day long. I try to go for neutral colors that match what I am wearing on most days, so I don’t have to worry about bringing a wide selection of shoe options.
Some specific recommendations include:
Cole Haan Women’s Grand Crosscourt Ii Sneaker
Vionic Women’s Brisk Jada Active Sneaker
Vionic Women’s Magnolia Lois – Ladies Chukka Bootie with Concealed Orthotic Arch Support
ECCO Women’s Soft Classic Bootie Sneaker
For me, good compression socks are a must-have on a long flight to help with water retention in your legs. I don’t get on a plane without a pair of these:
CHARMKING Compression Socks for Women & Men Circulation
Packing cubes are a game changer for me, especially on multi-city trips where you are changing hotels every few days. I bring an extra packing cube for items that will need a wash, and it helps keep the contents of my suitcase neat and organized. Everyone has their own space-saving system of course – I like to roll some of my clothes inside the packing cubes and lay out some items flat.
I also like to bring a cute toiletries bag to keep my essentials in one place, and a jewelry organizer for things like accessories and sunglasses.
What about luggage? Where does this stuff all fit?
So many choices! Samsonite is always a good option, and they come in a variety of styles and sizes, if you prefer to have checked-in luggage or a stylish carry-on bag.
As a carry on, I love this rolling duffle bag. It is much more spacious than a lot of smaller suitcases.
I buy a LOT of souvenirs so packing light AND smart is a must for me. On more than one occasion, having a portable luggage scale has helped me avoid extra baggage fees. You can see just how heavy your suitcase is ahead of time, and figure out a plan that doesn’t involve shuffling around the contents of your suitcase in front of the baggage drop off carousel at the airport.
And then, of course, don’t forget the other miscellaneous items!
- Pack at least one outfit and your most important items and necessities in your carry-on bag, in case your luggage is delayed.
- Consider a universal adapter – check your electronics to see if you need both a converter and adapter to charge them.
- Camera and/or extra batteries for your phone – to make sure you can capture those cool photos on your trip!
- Phone charger – so you can stay connected with friends and family back home
- A comfy bag or backpack (l love my Kipling one) that’s light and weather-resistant – to keep your extra layers, phone, camera, water, snacks, etc.
- A reusable water bottle (and/or Yeti mug if you prefer coffee or tea on the go!) to keep hydrated
- Accessories: Hat, scarf, or gloves for cool mornings and evenings; sunglasses
- Travel-sized toiletries, including sunscreen
- Travel documents (passport, visas, tickets, etc.)
- Cash and credit cards
- First-aid kit
- Map or guidebook of the area you will be visiting
Enjoy your travels!
For an idea on where to go in 2024, check out one of our sample itineraries here
Here are some “extras” I can help you with to make your travel experience seamless.
Want to arrange for a special anniversary dinner, catamaran day trip, or a private, pre-opening museum tour for your family? You got it.
Private, luxury transfers: relax and enjoy your vacation without worrying about driving in a foreign destination after a long transatlantic flight. We can arrange for a luxury car with drivers that have knowledge of each destination.
Unmatched culinary experiences: Looking for a reservation at a specific Michelin-star restaurant or a private walking food tour, wine tasting, or whiskey experience? We can help.
A digital itinerary on an app that’s available even when your phone is offline. The app includes all activities, vouchers, and confirmations. You never have to worry about losing your printed travel documents again.
