What to Pack for Europe: The Ultimate Travel Packing List

Over the last few weeks, I’ve been putting together a list of my favorite items to pack for traveling to Europe and I’ve curated The Ultimate Europe Packing List just for you. This isn’t just another checklist—it’s everything I personally pack and swear by for my travels to Italy and France, etc. These recommendations are my travel-tested, carry-on-approved favorites with links so you can shop and pack easily.

Don’t Forget These Documents For Your Trip

Passport and visa (if required)

Passport holder

A photo copy of your passport & ID

Travel insurance documents

Credit/debit cards and cash (Euros)- Be sure to bring a Visa and/or Mastercard… Many smaller boutiques and restaurants don’t accept American Express Card!

Tech Essentials You’ll Actually Use

Let’s start with the essential tech gadgets:

EU-compatible plug adapter – I would buy this in advance, rather than purchasing at the airport

Slim portable charger – An absolute must, especially for a long flight or train ride

Noise-cancelling Bluetooth headphones — These are only $22 and they‘re SO comfortable to travel with. (This is a great alternative to the $200+ Sony or Bose headphones)!

AirTag for luggage tracking – My husband laughs at me for this one, but guess who didn’t lose his golf clubs on our last trip because we had an Airtag on it?! You’re welcome babe!

Self Care Items for the Flight

This might come as a surprise but I used to be VERY afraid of flying. I’ve learned over the years that the more comfy and cozy I can be on my flight, the more I’ll actually enjoy the process. I’ve created my little in-flight ritual with these self-care essentials, which really helps me to relax and be more comfortable (especially on an 8+ hour flight to Europe from the USA).

So, these are my go-to favorites:

Bombas compression socks — These are crucial to help promote circulation and to prevent blood clots on a long-haul flight

Airplane FootRest (2 pack) — If you’re not splurging on business class seats for your flight, this footrest (hammock) will be such a game-changer for you. This is a great way to have your legs slightly elevated and relaxed for the long flight!

Gua Sha Facial Massage Tools – On the flight, I like to encourage circulation by using these gua sha tools for a light facial massage. Maybe it’s all in my head, but doing this every hour or so helps me feel more refreshed during a long travel day.

And: I always pre-download a playlist on Spotify of rain sounds (or spa music) that I can listen to during the flight. It helps me settle in and relax, so hopefully this little trick does the same for you too! Just search for “relaxing beach sounds” or whatever sounds relax you, and download the playlist before your flight. 🙂

Skincare Essentials (TSA-Approved)

I try to travel with less bulk, so if I can opt for TSA-sized toiletries and skincare, I usually go that route rather than bringing my full-sized versions.

Honest Makeup Remover Wipes – Easy, gentle cleansing to feel refreshed on the go

Summer Fridays Jet Lag Serum – Just like it sounds, this is an instant hydration boost that lasts ALL day. I like to put this serum on as we take off as part of my in-flight routine.

TSA-friendly SPF – This is my all-time favorite skin-enhancing primer and SPF, by Ogee (and it has a clean rating in the Yuka app). This primer will make your skin feel so fresh, firm and deeply hydrated while providing SPF 40 protection.

Luggage and Tote Bags: My Favorite Finds

These are my favorite luggage picks for easy traveling, and to allow for efficient packing. I’ve sampled so many different carry ons and checked luggage brands, and these are my go-to favorites:

Puffy Lightweight Tote Bag (Personal Item Bag) – This light tote is expandable, and holds all my carry-on essentials, including my laptop/iPad, chargers, snacks, wallet and water onboard the flight.

Carry On Luggage with Front Pocket – (On sale for $159, usually it’s $300+) Usually, for my Europe trips I’ll bring the above-mentioned tote bag and the below checked luggage bag, and that’s it. But, if I decide to bring a carry-on too, this is my go-to choice. It’s hard to find a nice carry-on with a front pocket, so that’s why I really like this one.

Away Large Trunk Luggage (Checked) 31” – It’s a bit of a splurge, but this holds literally more than 30 outfits, and several heels, wedges, etc. easily.

I truly hope this list makes your packing smoother and your trip even more enjoyable!

Looking for destination-specific tips or full itineraries? Feel free to browse the rest of our site where I share my latest travel guides, free Italy Travel downloads, and curated itineraries to make planning easier and more inspiring. You can also discover our latest Italy and France travel guides, here.

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