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With so many great cities and destinations in such close proximity, many travelers find themselves country hopping on a trip to Europe. If your itinerary includes multiple stops and you are unsure what to pack, make sure you don’t forget these 8 things to pack for Europe in the summer! (These items may also work for Spring and Autumn too – click on the images to shop!)
Things to Pack for Europe in the Summer
A stylish backpack is the perfect accessory to accompany you on your European vacation.
Large enough to carry everything you may need for sightseeing, but not overly big that it becomes cumbersome. I normally opt for a small cross body purse, but a backpack gives you the freedom to bring along an umbrella and jacket without feeling bulky. I love all the great colors this style comes in, and that it would be easily flat packed in your luggage if necessary.
You’ll want to look your best when you travel! Read my travel tips to Pack Light Stylishly!
Headscarf
It’s such a small item that barely takes up any space in your bags and can be tied to your purse or backpack when out for the day. I especially like it to hold my hair back during outdoor activities, and to cover my hair in between washings. A headscarf is such a simple way to change up your look when traveling and can easily be included in your things to pack for Europe or any other destination.
Surplus Jacket
A utility jacket is a great alternative to the universally loved denim jacket.
Especially in muted neutral colors it can coordinate with every outfit. This soft lightweight jacket is perfect for throwing in your backpack to use when the temperature drops. This surplus jacket can go forever between washings, will hold it’s shape well, and can take the abuse of being on the road. I particularly like it paired with feminine dresses and patterns.
You can easily roll up your lightweight jacket into a packing cube so it is ready for you when you need it.
Striped Top
A striped top will fit in perfectly in a European setting.
My all time favorite graphic pattern in clothing is stripes. This easy pattern will fit in perfectly in a European setting, and would be a nice addition to your travel wardrobe. Since I normally stick to solid colored clothing, throwing in a simple pattern like a stripe is an easy transition. I also like that it works well with other patterns, for example it pairs nicely with floral patterned accessories and can even be considered a “neutral”. This makes is one of my essential things to pack for Europe.
Flat Sneakers
If you don’t have a need for athletic sneakers, these flat slip-ons are a comfy and stylish option for your trip.
You can find them in lots of colors and patterns, but I love this metallic pair. These are also a great alternative to the much-loved converse or vans. I like them because they are so versatile and can coordinate with any outfit and are less bulky than some other shoes. Flat slip-ons should be one of the things to pack for Europe!
White Jeans
White jeans have become a staple for summer outfits.
Instead of the typical blue jeans, opt for white denim on your summer vacation. White jeans have become a staple for summer outfits, and look great paired with any top. The only downfall is keeping them from looking dingy during your travels. I wouldn’t recommend white jeans for any long-term trips but they’re great for 1-2 week vacations. Afraid to wear white? Don’t be unless you’re not used to it or tend to be spill prone. Otherwise, it’s a classic choice!
Mini Umbrella
You will be glad you brought along your umbrella when an unexpected rain shower hits.
Since weather is unpredictable it’s always a good idea to have one of these handy. You want to make the most of your time in a new city, no matter the weather.
Nude Ballet Flats
Ballet flats worn day or night.
I could live in ballet flats, and taking along a pair to Europe is a no brainer for me. They can be worn day or night, as long as they are well broken in and form fit your foot. Nude is the perfect neutral, and I especially like this foldable pair that will take up little to no space in your bags (plus it’s a great price, too).
Check out our top cute and comfortable flats for travel!
If you plan on spending your summer in and around Europe, adding these clothing items to your travel wardrobe will keep you comfortable and stylish.
What are your essential things to pack for Europe? Comment and share!
For more Europe packing tips, please read:
- Ten Step Packing Guide for Europe
- The Complete Backpacking Europe Packing List
- Packing List for Almost All European Destinations
Suggested travel resources:
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Author Bio: Niki is an interior designer and artist from Louisiana. In addition to her design work, she writes for local and online publications sharing her experiences and passion for travel. Niki is currently adding stamps to her passport while building her design practice, Niki Landry Designs. nikilandry.com nikilandrydesigns niki-landry-designs-llc
Love all your tips and packing advice . My only problem is most of your clothing selections are for young slim girls . Do you have some alternative clothing sites for us over 50’s who still like to be fashionable but not into mini skirts and teeny tops and dresses ?
Hi Diana, the visuals shown are just for inspiration so you can create your own travel wardrobe based on what works for you. For example, if you see a skirt that symbolizes a bottom (any bottom that makes sense for your trip) or a printed blouse symbolizes a top (any top that suits your preferences). Please see this guide for more information: https://travelfashiongirl.com/how-to-use-the-travel-fashion-girl-packing-lists-and-guides/
We do also have several age specific articles such as:
https://travelfashiongirl.com/travel-fashion-tips-for-women-over-40/
https://travelfashiongirl.com/travel-fashion-for-women-over-50/
Wear blousy tops with bamboo leggings for a slip look. A loose fiitted botton up top over any outfit that covers your bottom will slim you down. The fabric should be cotton, bamboo not polyester!