Europe - Ultimate Packing List
- Kel
- Apr 30
- 4 min read
We have been to Europe many times over the years, with and without kids. We've done the hiking/walking tours, the food tours, the luxury getaways, the adventure-seeking...you name it. Along the way, we've compiled a list of our must-haves to pack whenever we go "across the pond." From years of first-hand experience to years of Jen being a flight attendant, our packing skills have become somewhat turnkey.
IF YOU WANT A FREE GUIDE TO ANY OF OUR EUROPEAN FAVORITES, CLICK HERE:
1. Leather Crossbody Sling
This is an adorable crossbody bag for travel. Its stylish design has five pockets and five card slots, with RFID blocking for added security. The strap is adjustable, comfortable, and detachable. It keeps your valuables close to your body and gives you ultimate touring flexibility. It comes in many color options.
2. Walking Sneakers
The European lifestyle embraces sneakers, and so do we! A good pair of walking sneakers is a staple for any walking trip. We've tried many, and these never disappoint. Long miles logged, no blisters, no pain, no discomfort. Lots of colors & styles - maybe bring two pairs!
3. Travel Flats
Luggage space is always precious (especially if you need room for shopping deals), and these flats are fabulous. They are cute enough to effortlessly pair with a casual evening dress and comfortable enough to wear touring during the day. They fold in half for perfect packing space. Lots of colors to match any wardrobe.
4. Lightweight Travel Shawl
This wrap shawl is a perfect travel accessory. Whether used on an airplane or as a simple wrap for dinner, it's also ideal for easily covering your shoulders while touring all the gorgeous churches, sipping wine at a cafe, or strolling ancient streets. Its luxe fabric is soft, lightweight, and breathable. It's machine washable and easily fits into any bag or backpack.
5. TSA Approved Quart Bag
We try to travel without checking our bags. It's faster when we arrive, and no risk of lost luggage. That said, we keep our liquids & gel toiletries organized in a TSA-compliant bag. These meet EU & CAA & TSA airport security requirements for carry-on liquid bags. There is a ziplock closure (no leaks) and the waterproof material is easy to keep clean and wipe down between trips.
6. Reusable Shopping Tote Bags
Be prepared to shop when roaming the amazing shopping in Europe. These small, packable bags are perfect to take with you, are washable, and are even waterproof. The bag holds up to 22 lbs—that's many souvenirs. There are lots of colors and patterns to pick from.
7. Handheld Fan
Depending on the city or sites you're visiting, it can get warm (especially in a crowd). This handheld, foldable fan is perfect for carrying with you. It can last up to 15 hours on a charge and has two circulating blades that push an ideal breeze. There are two speeds to control the airflow as you need it. It is great for your purse, backpack, or even your pocket.
8. Tessan Universal 6-In-1 Adaptor
This tool was vital for our crew. The universal adapter features four plugs (C, G, I, and A) that work in 150 countries. Additionally, it includes three USB-C and two USB-A ports for charging devices. Its compact size and lightweight design make it easy to pack in your bag!
9. Kooder Shoe Dryers
After a day of walking and touring, shoes can sometimes become damp. These are lifesavers. They dry shoes quickly, emit heat around the device through air holes, and have overheating preventative controls. Everybody has a set.
10. I-GO Mini First Aid Kit
We will need some first aid with all the walking around the city and sites. This packable mini first aid kit has served us well! It contains bandages, gauze pads, alcohol pads, cleansing wipes, gloves, and more!
11. AirFly Pro2 Wireless Adaptor
These are a must whenever we travel (especially on long-haul flights). This adaptor transforms any headphone jack into a Bluetooth 5.3 transmitter or receiver. Stream audio from airplane screens, gym TVs, or gaming consoles to your AirPods, Bose, Sony, or other wireless headphones. It also has over 25 hours of battery life!
12. 3-In-1 Charging Station
Since we all have multiple devices, our crew each has their own charging station. It’s foldable, small, uses only one cord, and has all you need for three devices simultaneously. And...there are multiple colors!
13. Compact Umbrella
We never let the weather stop our fun on vacation. We’ve often walked and sung in the rain as we visited sites. This small, compact, reverse-folding umbrella is perfect to carry in your bag. It’s even windproof and comes in tons of colors.
14. Travel Laundry Sheet
Sometimes, when you travel, you need to wash some clothes. These eco-friendly, liquid-free, and hypoallergenic sheets are perfect. The sheets are concentrated and dissolve wholly and instantly, leaving no soapy film. They are made without parabens, dyes, or artificial fragrances—perfect for sensitive skin and the whole family. They pack easily into your suitcase.
15. Jet Lag Relief
Jet lag is never fun, and after a long flight, we all want to arrive feeling fresh and alert. These are essential for traveling and help alleviate fatigue due to disruptions from jet lag. They are made with plant-based ingredients, and you get no side effects. They help us hit the ground running and adjust to the new time zone much faster.
Enjoy the recos. Travel well, friends.