Packing for a vacation to Europe can be a bit stressful. Packing for a last minute 21-day trip to Europe with just a carry-on bag? That notches things up to a whole other level. This kind of adventure requires some super strategic planning, some smart packing and maybe even a little bit of luck. Want to know a secret? It can be done.
This past summer a fun challenge was thrown in my lap. A very, very lasting minute invitation to meet my daughter in Milan Italy and spend the next 3 or so weeks tripping through Europe with her. The only catch? I had only 48 hours to find and book plane tickets, do a wee bit of shopping, get my work and family life in order AND pack up everything I would need for 21 days in JUST a carry on! Whew. Spoiler alert: When there’s a will, there’s a way.
Do I wish I’d had a list to work from? Yes, yes I do. So here’s a minimalist packing list to help you make the most out of limited space and yet pack everything you could ever need for a 21 day adventure in Europe.
Your Bags;
Tip 1. Know your airlines restrictions. I was flying Air Canada and was permitted one “carry on” and one “personal item”. Believe me when I tell you I made the most of every inch of those two bags. (plus I wore a travel safe purse that I could squeeze into my personal item if I needed to)
Tip 2: Make sure that carry on has great wheels!
Tip 3: Use packing cubes to help keep you organized.
Tip 4: Make sure your passport is still up to date!
Clothing:
- Five Tops:
- Mix of short-sleeve, tank tops and 1 long-sleeve shirt.
- Five Bottoms:
- 1 pair of jeans, 1 pair of leggings, 2 skorts, 1 pari of shorts that can be easily mixed and matched.
- One Jacket& One Cozy Sweater:
- A lightweight, versatile waterproof jacket or sweater that can be layered.
- Two-Three Dresses:
- A versatile dress and a maxi skirt and top that can be dressed up or down.
- Underwear/Socks etc:
- As many pairs of underwear as you can fit! Two- three bras and at least 5 pairs of socks. Bonus pair of socks could be a pair of compression socks. Also consider a pair of bike shorts for under your dresses. If you know, you know!
- Pajamas/Loungewear:
- 2 Comfortable sets of sleepwear for relaxing in the evenings. One that was warm and one cool!
- Swimsuit/coverup (plus flip lops if you have room)
- Pashmina Scarf or Shawl
- Shoes:
- Comfortable walking shoes suitable for various terrains. (wear these on the plane)
- Sandals or lightweight flats for warmer days.
Toiletries and Personal Care:
- Travel-sized Toiletries:
- Shampoo, conditioner, body wash, toothpaste, razor, and other essentials.
- Travel laundry sheets and a Shout Stick! (trust me, you will need this)
- Toothbrush and Dental Floss:
- Toothbrush and a small container of dental floss.
- Haircare:
- Hairbrush or comb, hair ties, or clips. Curling wand if you have room. ( I made room!)
- Skincare:
- Moisturizer, sunscreen, lip balm, travel size perfume and all the make-up! I saved a ton of space here by packing travel size make-up and truly packing only the essentials.
- Basic First Aid Kit:
- Band-aids, blister band-aids, pain relievers, motion sickness tablets, vitamins, and all necessary prescription medications.
Electronics and Accessories:
- Smartphone and Charger:
- Portable charger/power bank is a bonus if you have space
- Adapter Plug:
- Adapter for European outlets.
- Earphones/Earbuds:
- A life saver on those train rides.
Travel Necessities :
- Travel Wallet:
- To secure your ID, passports, cards and cash as well as a copy of your itinerary and travel insurance
- Lightweight Daypack or Foldable Tote Bag:
- For daily outings. So important for those trips to the beach or grocery store runs!
- Travel insurance documents
- Money and Banking:
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- Credit/debit cards
- Some local currency (Euros or the currency of the country you’re visiting)
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- Sunglasses and or hat: for sun protection
- Wet wipes and hand sanitizers
- Apple Air Tags: an extra layer of safety
- Ear plugs: hotels can be noisy
- Bounce Sheet (or laundry dryer sheet): slide one or two of these into your bags to help keep your laundry smelling fresh and clean
Optional If You Have Space:
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- Snacks: Protein bars, gum, candy.
- Book: Truly a must for me when I fly
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Remember, you can always do laundry during your trip, so you don’t need to pack a fresh set of clothes for each day. Choose versatile, comfortable, and even moisture-wicking fabrics. Wear your bulkiest items (like your jacket and/or sweatshirt) on the plane to save space in your carry-on bag. Happy packing and safe travels!
Jacki says
What a comprehensive list! I always wonder if I can do a carry on and relieve the “lost” luggage struggle. Thank you!