13 Things You Need to Pack When Traveling in Europe Dhinesh Manuel January 11, 2017 Destinations, Europe, International Travel, Travel Tips The European continent is such a diverse place. With so many countries that you can drive or take the train through, it’s the perfect destination to experience different cultures, people, and places. But you’ve got to be prepared: there’ll be changes in weather, different accommodation situations, and various activities you’ll need to be ready for. Whatever you want to accomplish on your Euro trip, here are just a few things you should make sure you pack for your adventure! Small Keychain Flashlight If you ever find yourself in a dark spot, whether you’re checking your car engine in the middle of a pitch-black Hungarian backroad (especially when your phone is low on battery), or fumbling your way to a toilet in a dark hostel in Dubrovnik, you’ll realize how important it is to carry one on you at all times during your travels. High-Quality Wool Socks While being a bit pricey, they do last longer, keep odors from developing, and air dry way faster than cotton or synthetic materials. You can wash them off in a sink and they’ll only take about 6-8 hours to dry. Pack lightweight ones for a Portuguese summer and heavy-weight ones for a frigid Finnish winter. A Light Sweater Light sweaters are perfect for when the weather is cooler and are another way to add more European flair to your outfit. They can also help you adhere to the strict dress codes (no shoulder showing for ladies) required to enter places like St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome. Plus, they’re also great for packing delicate breakable souvenirs on your trip back. Eye Mask and Ear Plugs Whether it’s the noisy midnight revelers right outside your hotel window in Madrid, or the guy who can’t stop snoring on that flight to Stockholm, earplugs can give you some quiet when it matters the most. Don’t forget to pack an eye mask as well, just in case you decide to visit Norway during the summer midnight sun period. You’ll need to block out the light and tell your body to go to sleep… even at 2 a.m.! Digital Luggage Scale Bought too many gifts and souvenirs in Berlin and want to avoid paying for overweight luggage? This nifty little device can save the day … and of course, money. Wunderbar! A Hanging Toiletry Bag These are super useful when you’re in a small, minimalist European bathroom where sink space may be limited. Scarves Want to blend in with the locals when out and about in Milan? Europeans like their fashionable scarves and taking along a few colorful pieces would help when evenings get a bit chilly. Plus, they can come in handy if you ever need to wrap up breakable souvenirs and gifts on your way back home. Shades There’s nothing shady about it. Your sunglasses will be a lifesaver in protecting you from the harsh glare and will be super helpful if you plan on driving around the continent. Appropriate Clothing for Outdoor Activities If you’re more of the outdoorsy type and cycling or hiking through the Alps sounds like more your thing, then make sure to take the appropriate gear you’ll need. For example, avid cyclists need to remember to take their own bicycle shorts and gloves, while hikers will need their boots, backpacks, and if required, a trekking pole or hiking staff. Ziplock Bags Great for storing toiletries that might leak during travel or even for storing snacks, Ziploc bags in various sizes are an absolute essential. They’re also great for when you want to take home a little soil, pebbles, or some rocks as souvenirs from your travels. Plus, if you’re thinking of a mineral-rich dip at a geothermal bathing site when in Iceland, remember to put any silver you wear in a Ziploc for safekeeping. The minerals will discolor silver! You may also like: Struggling With Your Package? Try These Hyper Efficient Packing Hacks! Appropriate Shoes If you thinking of prancing through Prague or waltzing through Vienna, then choose light comfy shoes. If you’re planning on hiking through the Scottish Highlands, then choose some lightweight boots that are waterproof and that were worn from hikes beforehand. Power Adapters Make sure you get the right one for the countries you wish to visit. The UK and Ireland may have different plug points than other European countries. Getting a universal adaptor is the best way to make sure that your phone and laptops have enough juice on your trip. Collapsible Umbrella Thinking about strolling through the historic streets of Paris? Or hopping cheap flights to Rome, Italy? Well, there’s always a chance of a light drizzle, so a small collapsible umbrella tucked away in your backpack will definitely come in handy in keeping your clothes dry. Do you have any tips for packing for Europe? Let us know in our comments section below!
