Travel like a Pro: Packing List for Europe

From art to adventure, culture to cuisine, or wine to wonders – traveling Europe has something for everyone to enjoy. With such a diverse list of opportunities, packing efficiently for the journey can seem a daunting task. Fortunately, it doesn’t have to be! Here are a few tips, tricks and even a printable packing list for Europe from our Conner Hats travel pros.

Before pulling out the backpack and throwing all worldly possessions into the bottomless pit, start with researching some basic information. Questions to answer should be:

-    What does the season look like in the countries I am going to (rain, snow, windy, sunny)?

-    How long is my trip?

-    Am I planning for active, leisure or mix of both?

-    Are there essential items I can purchase overseas which will make traveling and packing more efficient?

TIP: It is easier to pack light and purchase items abroad to bring home than it is to over pack and leave things in Europe.

Answering these questions provides a structured and organized packing guideline.  If you’re packing for Europe in winter, consider taking warmer clothes and additional layers. In contrast, if you’re packing for Europe in summer, you can leave some layers behind and grab a swimsuit and flip-flops instead. Take our list below as a starting point to be adapted based upon the season and length of your trip.

A universal tip for packing for Europe is versatility. Do you own clothing that can be comfortable for an activity such as hiking yet be dressed up for a casual glass of wine around town afterward? Packing basics that are interchangeable are incredibly helpful.

Think of versatility not only for fashion but also for function. For example, let’s discuss the benefits of a hat. In addition to sun protection and style, pulling down the brim can provide darkness in public spaces for a quick nap (you’d be surprised how often this trick comes in handy on long train rides).  Check out the Conner Hats Boho Collection for some fashionably functional hat-spiration.

Here is the Conner Hats backpacking Europe packing list from our travel pros. Download and print the list for free to help you stay organized while packing for your adventure ahead!

Basics

Toiletries

Most of these items can be purchased overseas and eliminate the possibility of liquids somehow leaking during the travel process. However, if there are particular brands you use or a strict daily regime, be sure to pack what you need.

• Shampoo/Conditioner
• Toothbrush/toothpaste
• Hairbrush or comb
• Hair-ties, Bobbi pins, headbands
• Deodorant
• Make-up kit
• Sunscreen/bug spray/aloe vera (location dependent)
• Any medications/prescriptions
• TIP: Think about the length of your trip and any refills that may be needed. Be sure to notify your doctor if you need an extra prescription refill before departing.

Clothes

TIP: Stick to basic styles that are versatile in both fashion and function. Below are the recommended quantities for a two-week blend of active and leisure style trip.

• 1 pair long pants/jeans
• 1 pair shorts
• 1 pair capris/yoga pants
• 1-2 travel dresses
• 1-2 basic tank tops (one solid color, one versatile pattern)
• 1-2 short sleeve shirts

TIP: Consider material – could you sweat in these without creating a stench or armpit marks?

• 4-5 pairs of underwear/bras
• 3-4 pairs of socks
• 1 swimsuit (location dependent)
• 1 jacket/sweater
• 1 hat – great chance to dress up an outfit while having practical purposes like sun protection. Check out the Conner Hats selection perfect for European travel

Shoes

• 1 active/walking
  Comfortable walking in for 4hrs.+
• 1 street style/going out
  Use to “dress up” multiple looks
  
  
  
• Photocopies of your passport and travel plans including flight information, insurance, travel itinerary, and emergency contact information.
• Two copies with you
• 1-2 at home with friends/family
• Notify bank of trip dates, destinations, and length

TIP: Check your banks' exchange rate and consider exchanging some currency ahead of time

• Change purse for Euro coins
• Multi-functional day bag

TIP: Bring a bag that you can view at all times such as a side sling or messenger bag. Theft is common in some European countries. Having eyes on your zippers and bag openings at all times helps to mitigate your chances of being a victim of pickpockets.

• Electrical converter + chargers for your electronics
• Excellent graph by REI to find what type of converter you will need
• Reusable water bottle

OPTIONAL

• Travel towel
• Camera
• Laptop
• Phone
• Inflatable travel pillow
• Headphones
• Journal/Book
• Eye mask (for traveling and adjusting to jetlag)
• Luggage/Locker Lock 

Parting tips and tricks from our travel pros:

• Utilize the “sushi roll” packing technique to conserve space and pack efficiently
• Pack with thought – aim to have the most commonly used items on top for accessibility
• Use empty spaces to fit other items into for packing efficiency. For example: if traveling with an empty water bottle during the flight, put your toiletries inside the water bottle. Another easy option is stuffing shoes with smaller items.
• Weigh your backpack before the airport – nothing is more stressful than frantically reorganizing at check-in
• Carry-on a “survival bag” – As much as we hope it doesn’t happen, lost luggage is an inherent risk of international travel. Be sure to carry on the flight any possessions that you would need should the worst-case scenario occur, and you land in Europe empty-handed. Items to consider would be:
• Travel sized toiletries
• Passport, cash, a copy of travel plans
• A layer (jacket/sweater)
• Valuables such as your electronics; Especially a laptop or phone so you could contact people should an emergency occur