Most people remember the obvious things when packing for Europe: clothes, a passport, a phone charger and a pair of shoes they hope will be comfortable.
But it is usually the smaller things that become important once you are actually there.
You wake up with a headache late at night, get caught in an unexpected rainstorm, arrive at a beautiful church with uncovered shoulders or discover that all your train tickets and reservations are trapped inside a phone with 3% battery.
If I were packing for a European vacation tomorrow, these are some of the things I would make sure were in my suitcase.
1. Your usual medications
Europe has pharmacies, but products, brand names and opening hours may be different from what you are used to. Bring enough of your regular medications, along with the pain reliever or stomach medication you already know works for you.
Always keep prescription medication in your carry-on luggage and, when possible, in its original packaging.
2. Motion-sickness medication
This is especially helpful if your itinerary includes ferries, boat tours, winding coastal roads or mountain drives. Even if you do not usually experience motion sickness, it is nice to have something with you just in case.
3. Mosquito repellent and after-bite cream
Mosquitoes can be common throughout many parts of Europe, especially during the warmer months. A lovely evening eating outside can quickly become uncomfortable if you are not prepared.
4. Sunscreen
Do not wait until you are halfway through a sightseeing day to realize how strong the European summer sun can be. Bring sunscreen you already like and will actually use.
5. A small packet of tissues and hand sanitizer
These take up almost no room in your day bag and can be very useful in public bathrooms, train stations, on buses and during long sightseeing days.
6. A lightweight scarf or shawl
This is one of my favourite things to pack for Europe. It can cover your shoulders when visiting churches and religious sites, keep you warm in an air-conditioned train or add an extra layer on a cooler evening.
7. Clothing that covers your shoulders and knees
Many churches and religious sites have dress requirements. Think about this before leaving your hotel so you are not disappointed when you arrive.
8. A packable rain jacket or small umbrella
Beautiful weather does not mean it will never rain. A sudden shower can happen almost anywhere in Europe, and a lightweight jacket or compact umbrella is much easier than trying to buy one in the middle of a downpour.
9. Two pairs of broken-in walking shoes
The important words are broken in.
Europe is not the place to test brand-new shoes. You may be walking on cobblestones, uneven pavement, hills and old stone streets for hours each day. Alternating between two comfortable pairs can also help save your feet.
Make sure at least one pair has good grip, especially for wet stone streets.
10. Good walking socks
People spend a lot of time choosing the right shoes and then forget about their socks. Comfortable, breathable socks can make a big difference when you are walking all day.
11. A light sweater
Yes, even in the summer. Trains, museums, shops, cruise ships and hotels can be heavily air-conditioned, and evenings may be cooler than expected.
12. A swimsuit
Even if you are not planning a beach vacation, your hotel may have a pool or spa. You may also decide to visit thermal baths, spend a day at a lake or take an unexpected boat trip.
13. A small zipped crossbody bag
For sightseeing, smaller is usually better. A secure crossbody bag gives you somewhere to keep your phone, cards, tickets and other essentials close to your body.
14. A photocopy of your passport
A photocopy does not replace your actual passport when official identification is required, but having a copy stored separately can be very helpful if the original is lost or stolen.
I also recommend keeping a digital copy somewhere secure.
15. Offline copies of important reservations
Do not rely on having internet access everywhere you go. Download your train tickets, timed-entry reservations, transfers and other important documents before leaving your hotel.
Saving screenshots is also a good idea.
16. The correct plug adapter
Different countries in Europe may use different plug types, so check what is required for every destination on your itinerary.
Remember that a plug adapter only changes the shape of the plug. It does not change the voltage, so always check whether your electrical devices are compatible.
17. A multi-port USB charger
This is much easier than packing several individual chargers. It is especially helpful in older European hotels where conveniently placed outlets may be limited.
18. A good power bank
During a sightseeing day, your phone may be running maps, taking photos, displaying train information and holding your reservations from morning until night.
A reliable power bank is one of those things you may not appreciate until you really need it. Remember to keep it in your carry-on luggage when flying.
19. A lightweight reusable water bottle
You do not need to carry a giant bottle all day. A small, lightweight one is usually enough and can easily be refilled throughout your trip where the local water is safe to drink.
