The Clothes, Carry-On Essentials, and Travel Finds I Loved (Plus What I’d Leave Behind)
In the weeks (okay, months) leading up to our recent trip, my Google search history was filled with one question: What to pack for Europe? I’m a lot of things, but a light packer is certainly not one of them, so preparing for an 18-day trip across three countries and five cities was quite the learning experience! After plenty of research, countless Amazon orders, and nearly three weeks of putting everything to the test, I’ve narrowed down the travel essentials that truly earned their place in my suitcase, along with a few things I personally wouldn’t bother packing again. From carry-on essentials that made our long-haul flights more comfortable to travel toiletries and wardrobe staples I reached for on repeat, I’m sharing the pieces that made traveling through Europe a little easier. Whether you’re wondering what to pack for Europe or simply looking for a few tried-and-true travel recommendations, consider this your inside look at what I packed, what I loved, and what I’d leave behind next time!
To explore my list of what to pack for Europe, scroll to the ‘Shop the Post’ section at the bottom of this blog! As always, make sure to subscribe to my newsletter and follow me on Instagram for more content.
What I Packed in My Carry-On
When deciding what to pack for Europe, keeping my carry-on organized was a top priority. These pouches were the best $15 I spent! I used them to organize my carry-on bag into what Kennedy called my “pouch system,” with separate pouches for wellness, beauty, technology, and miscellaneous essentials. It made finding exactly what I needed during our long-haul flights so much easier! These are the carry-on items I reached for most and would absolutely pack again.
Toiletries & Packing Essentials
For some reason, packing my toiletries was the part of preparing for Europe that made me the most nervous. I was convinced I’d forget something crucial, so I went through my morning and evening routines with pen and paper, writing down every product I use. This simple packing tip helped me make sure I had all my travel toiletries and beauty essentials covered. It was also my first trip using my new toiletry bags, which were a much-needed refresh after more than 20 years with my beloved Vera Bradley organizers!
What I Wore on Repeat in Europe
My biggest piece of advice when it comes to packing clothes for Europe is to choose pieces you can easily mix and match. A versatile travel wardrobe gives you plenty of outfit options without having to pack your entire closet! Ripley Raider was an absolute favorite for us, with so many pieces that could be styled in seemingly countless ways. And while we’re on the subject of packing light, don’t bring more shoes than you need! Kennedy and I both packed far too many pairs, only to find ourselves reaching for the same sneakers and evening shoes on repeat.
Top Packing Recommendations
After all my research into what to pack for Europe, a few items stood out as things I was especially glad I brought along. These are the tried-and-true travel essentials I’d recommend adding to any Europe packing list!
- Poo-Pourri Toilet Spray: I feel like this one doesn’t require much explaining, but trust me… you (and your travel companions) will be SO glad you packed it!
- Cashmere Wrap: I never travel without one of these. It keeps me warm on chilly flights and doubles as a versatile accessory I can style with different outfits throughout the trip. I especially love the quality and price point of this one!
- Motion Sickness Glasses: As someone who gets very carsick, I truly don’t know how I would have survived without these! With so many winding roads throughout our trip, they were hands down one of the best things I packed.
- Mini Loofahs: I was so glad we packed these individually wrapped travel loofahs! I brought one for each stop in Europe and simply discarded it before heading to our next destination.
- LED Makeup Mirror: I’ve seen countless influencers rave about these makeup mirrors, and now I don’t think I’ll ever travel without one! I used mine daily, especially in hotel rooms with limited lighting.
- Laura Geller Makeup Palettes: Speaking of makeup, these palettes made packing SO much easier! With nearly everything I needed for a full face in one place, I was able to streamline my makeup bag without sacrificing my usual routine.
- Electric Toothbrush: This toothbrush was one of those last-minute Amazon orders I was SO glad I made! It’s effective, comes with a travel case, and worked like a charm throughout our trip.
- Ripley Raider: I packed a few pieces from the Ripley Raider core collection and they were by far some of the most frequently worn items in my suitcase. So comfortable, versatile, and easy to mix and match!
- New Balance Sneakers: I firmly believe these are the best walking shoes for Europe! They carried me through thousands of steps across multiple cities without a problem.
- AirTags: Put an AirTag in every single bag! Two of our bags were lost on the way to Ireland, and being able to see exactly where they were gave us so much peace of mind.
Items I Wouldn’t Pack Next Time
While there were so many items I was really glad that I packed, there were also a handful of items that I personally would leave behind on my next trip.
- Folding Scissors: I really wanted to love these, but the quality wasn’t quite what I’d hoped for. I love the concept, but they were a bit too difficult to use. I’ll be looking for an alternative before my next trip!
- Alo Socks: While I love Alo and many of the pieces I own (especially this fabulous set), I was underwhelmed by their socks. I purchased the half-crew and no-shows, but neither stayed in place very well. I actually ended up leaving them in Europe! Love Alo, but I’d skip the socks next time.
- Loop Ear Plugs: This one is more about preference than quality! I bought the Loop earplugs to sleep on the plane but never reached for them. Next time, I’d save the money and opt for a generic pair instead!
- Mini Fan: While I was very impressed with the size and quality of this handheld fan, I didn’t use it once! I’m sure it would come in handy in warmer weather, but I simply didn’t need it on this trip.
- Hair Tools: When they tell you not to bring your hair dryer or styling tools to Europe, listen! Unless they’re explicitly rated for dual voltage, you risk damaging your appliances. Hair ties and dry shampoo were my best friends on this trip.
