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Planning a trip to Europe? No idea what the heck to pack? You've come to the right place!
As a continent, Europe has so much to offer. Get ready to soak up the sun, explore historic landmarks, indulge in delicious cuisine, and immerse yourself in the vibrant cultures of this diverse continent. But before you jet off, it's important to pack smartly and efficiently. In this blog post, I'll share essential tips to help you pack for a European Summer trip, ensuring you have everything you need while keeping your luggage light and manageable.
1. Research the Weather: Europe's weather can vary greatly from country to country, so it's crucial to research the climate of your specific destinations. While most European countries experience warm temperatures during the summer, some regions may have cooler evenings or occasional rain showers. Growing up in the UK - I can attest to holding up an umbrella over a BBQ to shield it from the rain in the height of Summer. Pack a mix of lightweight clothing for hot days and a few layers for cooler evenings or unexpected weather changes.
2. Stick to a Colour Scheme: To make mixing and matching outfits easier, choose a colour scheme for your travel wardrobe. Opt for neutral colours like black, white, grey, or navy, and add a few pops of colour with accessories. This will allow you to create multiple outfits using fewer items, saving space in your suitcase. I was thankful to myself for following this savvy advice on my trip to Italy last Summer, meaning I was able to capture beautiful family photos in clothes I felt good in at the height of the Summer heat.
3. Pack Versatile Clothing: Select clothing items that can be worn in different ways and for various occasions. For example, a maxi dress can be dressed up with heels for a fancy dinner or dressed down with sandals for a casual day of sightseeing. Pack lightweight, wrinkle-resistant fabrics that dry quickly, making it easier to wash and re-wear items during your trip.
4. Don't Forget the Essentials: Aside from clothing, there are a few essential items you should pack for a European Summer trip.
These include:
- Comfortable walking shoes: Europe is known for its cobblestone streets and endless walking opportunities. Pack a pair of comfortable, broken-in shoes to keep your feet happy throughout your trip. On the cobbled streets of Rome, we were clearing at least 20k steps per day in the heat of Summer and I was grateful to have comfy shoes to enjoy the sights!
-Sunscreen and sunglasses: Protect your skin from the sun's harmful rays and keep your eyes shielded with a good pair of sunglasses.
- Hat and scarf: These versatile accessories can protect you from the sun during the day and keep you warm in the evenings. Also a scarf is handy for religious buildings where having legs and shoulders on show is a no-no.
- Adapter and charger: Ensure you can charge your electronic devices by packing the appropriate adapters for the countries you'll be visiting. Seems like a no brainer, but don't underestimate the amount of photos you'll be taking and instagram stories you'll be uploading to make all your friends jealous of your Europe escapades!
- Travel-sized toiletries: Opt for travel-sized toiletries to save space in your luggage. Remember to pack essentials like toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, and any necessary medications.
5. Consider the Dress Code: Some European countries, especially those with religious sites or upscale establishments, may have dress codes that require more modest attire. Research the dress codes of your destinations and pack a few modest outfits to ensure you can visit all the places on your itinerary without any issues. Or as mentioned above, have a scarf or wrap you can tuck away but get out when needed.
6. Leave Room for Souvenirs: One of the best parts of traveling is bringing back souvenirs and mementos from your trip. Leave some extra space in your suitcase or consider packing a foldable bag to accommodate any purchases you make along the way.
Conclusion: Packing for a European summer trip doesn't have to be a daunting task. By following these essential tips, you can ensure you have everything you need while keeping your luggage light, but still looking and feeling your best. Remember to research the weather, pack versatile clothing, and don't forget the essentials. With a well-packed suitcase, you'll be ready to embark on an unforgettable European adventure. Bon voyage!
