10 Days in Europe: How to Pack

Hi everyone!  Today I'll be kicking off "Travel Week" with one of the most boring parts of traveling- packing.  I hate to pack and always put it off until the last possible moment (usually the night before). 
10 days in europe packing list

Although it's not a lot of fun, it's a really important step, and something I've been working on perfecting the last few years!  This was actually my fourth trip out of the country, so I've learned a few lessons along the way.  I always keep my luggage minimal and only have one carry-on with me.  If you're like me and like to travel light, hopefully my tips will help!

what to pack for europe

Tops

I always bring neutral t-shirts when I'm traveling.  This way, I can mix and match with any bottoms I bring, as well as switch it up with a scarf or statement necklace.  I also make sure to bring a rain-proof jacket and a cardigan.  Weather in Europe can be unpredictable, so it's always a good idea to bring layering options!  To save space in my suitcase, I like to roll my clothes.  I heard this tip a long time ago, and it really helps when I pack!

Bottoms

For bottoms, I bring a variety of options.  Maxi skirts are great to wear on the plane for comfort, and are an easy way to dress up a plain t-shirt for a fancy dinner.  I also bring along a basic dress that's a comfortable material and isn't wrinkle prone (a thicker fabric like ponte or cotton is great for this!).  Add your favorite, basic pair of jeans and a pair of comfortable shorts and you're set!

Shoes

If you travel like me, you'll be walking around a ton.  Make sure you have a pair of reliable, comfortable sneakers with you.  I also pack a pair of nude flats that will match with any clothes that I bring.  I also slip in a pair of flip flops for showering in the hostels (I'm a bit of a germ-phobe though, so this is optional but suggested!)  When I pack my sneakers, I wrap them in a shower cap.  This keeps the dirty soles of the shoes off my clothes, and also reminds me to bring a cap!

Athletic Wear

Even if you're not planning on running or working out on vacation, I think it's still a good idea to pack a few athletic clothes.  Not only can these work as normal shorts and t-shirts if you don't like to double up on clothes, but they are also really comfortable and breathable.  In Mallorca, we ended up hiking a few days in the heat, and I was glad to wear a breathable tech t instead of a cotton shirt.  I brought along some of my new LuluLemon purchases that looked great either on a jog or out for dinner under a cardigan.

Toiletries

Most of the items I included in the list are standard items.  One thing to remember is that all liquids must be smaller than 3.4 oz and fit in a quart-size clear bag.  I usually pick up a few small bottles of products from Target, or use samples that I get in the mail.  The shampoo that I took with me was actually from a recent Target Beauty Box!  I also prefer to bring facial cloths instead of face wash to save space.  Just add water to the towels and you get a thick lather that leaves your skin completely clean and refreshed!  Another tip is to bring perfume samples.  I always have a ton laying around, so I just bring my favorites along and I don't have to worry about my expensive bottle of perfume breaking!  


Other

These are all the "odds and ends" that are easy to forget.  Before I leave, I make sure to print out any travel documents (hotel reservations, plane numbers, directions to hotel) to alleviate any anxiety.  I also make a copy and take pictures of all of my credit cards and passport in case they get lost or stolen.  Finally, don't forget to bring a water bottle and snacks!  Make sure the water bottle is empty before going through security, and bring some healthy snacks so you won't get hungry and tempted by expensive junk food in the airport and on the plane. 
 


What is always in your carry-on for flights?
Does anyone else have any "traveling hacks" to share?  I'd love to hear new tips!

Comments

  1. I need you to sit next to me the next time i have to pack for something. I am so disorganized. I'm definitely taking your check list and using it!

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    1. Haha that's great! I'm glad this helped out :) Packing is definitely something I can work on as well, but with practice comes perfection!

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  2. You rock Gretchen! I needed this. We recently went to the Caymans and I waaaay overpacked, in 14, yes 14 pairs of shoes! Gotta save this post for sure!!

    livingoncloudandreanine.blogspot.com

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    1. Yay! I'm glad this was helpful for you! 14 is quite a bit of shoes, but at least you had options, right?

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  3. Your list looks a lot like mine. My toiletries and electronics take up more space than the clothes, but then the clothes take up more room in the suitcase.

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    1. I know exactly what you mean :) I've been trying to pare down my electronics and only bring necessities, so I have a lot less now than I used to!

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  4. Packing is the hardest. I'm a super organized, type-A individual so you'd think I'd make lists and be all efficient... usually I end up with like 3 socks and no underwear... love this list : )

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    1. Thank you! I need to make lists for everything in life or I get really worried about forgetting something and end up freaking out during the flight. This is so much better for me!

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  5. Wow you are organized! I always over pack bc I like options :) I have been known to throw on the pj's on a flight and put on the eye mask. Have a great trip!

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    1. That sounds amazing! I always want to do that but get scared of what others will think. Next time I'll just say screw it and be comfortable and beautiful :)

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  6. Great tips! I'm actually leaving tomorrow to go to Korea, and like you I tend to procrastinate on packing until the last minute (ahem, tonight for me). =) I am ALL about traveling lightly with mix/match items and bringing your own food/water bottle. Those are lifesaving tips!

    Here are some of my other favorite travel hacks. I like to pack a scarf/pashmina - it's very compact, can dress up outfits easily, and can keep you warm in a pinch. For the neutral t-shirts and athletic clothes, I will also use those another way - as pajamas! I stuff my shoes with my underwear and socks to save luggage space. I use an eyeglass case to store my various electronic chargers. Finally - I bring old underwear/socks and shoes that are on their very last legs, and then dispose of them at the end of the trip instead of bringing them home (leaving more room for souvenirs =) )

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    1. I love the tip to bring a scarf! I always have one on when I get on the plane- they double up as a blanket when it gets cold :) Thanks for all the great tips! Hope you have a great trip!

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  7. Oh wow this is a very helpful post. I am saving it right now for future reference! I'm pretty good at making a list and packing on time but I always seem to forget something or misplace something (meaning I forget which bag it is in - usually the bag I didn't personally pack, ahem men - and then end up buying something new only to "find it" about 4 hours later... lol). You are very organized!

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  8. Sounds like an amazing trip. I love the idea for keeping your dirty shoes off your clean clothes! Have fun!

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    1. Thanks! I love that tip as well..really works!

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