Packing for a trip to Europe is all about balance. You will walk on cobblestones, climb steps to old towns, haul your bag onto trains, and move between very different climates, so you want versatile pieces and a bag you can carry. This Europe packing list covers what to bring, what to leave at home, and how to stay connected.
Travel Documents and Money
- Passport with at least three months' validity beyond your departure from the Schengen Area (more is better), plus any visa you need.
- Entry requirements: The EU's Entry/Exit System registers non-EU visitors at the border, and ETIAS, a travel authorization for visa-exempt visitors, is due to follow. The UK requires an ETA for many nationalities. Check before you go.
- Travel insurance details, and a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) or GHIC if you have one.
- A card with no foreign transaction fees and a little cash in euros. Some countries, such as the UK, Switzerland, Poland, and Czechia, use their own currencies.
- Digital and paper copies of bookings and documents.
Clothing and Footwear
- Comfortable walking shoes that you have already broken in. You will walk a lot, often on cobblestones.
- Layers: T-shirts, a light sweater, and a jacket work in most seasons.
- A waterproof jacket or compact umbrella, especially for northern Europe.
- Something smarter for nice restaurants and evenings out.
- Clothes that cover shoulders and knees for visiting churches in Italy, Spain, Greece, and elsewhere. A scarf works well.
- Swimwear, even in winter, for spas and thermal baths.
Adapters and Chargers
- Plug adapters: Most of continental Europe uses Type C and F plugs (two round pins). The UK and Ireland use Type G (three rectangular pins), and Switzerland and Italy have their own variants too. A universal adapter covers everything.
- Voltage: Europe uses 230V. Phone and laptop chargers are fine, but check hair tools from 110V countries.
- A power bank for long days of maps and photos.
Tech Essentials
- Phone, charger, and headphones.
- Offline maps and entertainment for train journeys.
- The best European travel apps installed and logged in.
A Europe eSIM
Roaming charges add up fast, and buying a new SIM card in every country is a hassle. The egoViet Europe eSIM covers 33 countries with one data plan. Install it at home, and it connects when you land. Check that your phone supports eSIM first.
Toiletries and Medicines
- Travel-sized toiletries in a clear bag for airport security.
- Prescription medicines in their original packaging, with a copy of the prescription.
- Basic first aid: bandages, painkillers, and blister treatment.
- Sunscreen, even in spring and autumn.
Travel Accessories and Safety
- A crossbody bag or money belt with zips, because pickpockets operate in busy tourist areas.
- A small padlock for hostel lockers or luggage.
- A reusable water bottle. Tap water is safe to drink in most of Europe, and many cities have public fountains.
- A foldable tote bag for shopping and markets.
- Earplugs and an eye mask for trains and city hotels.
What to Leave at Home
- A huge suitcase. Stairs, cobblestones, and small train luggage racks make it hard work.
- Too many shoes. Two pairs are usually enough.
- Expensive jewelry.
FAQs: Europe Packing List
What plug do I need for Europe?
Most of continental Europe uses Type C and F plugs with two round pins. The UK and Ireland use Type G. A universal adapter is the easiest choice.
What shoes should I bring to Europe?
Comfortable, broken-in walking shoes for cobblestones, plus a smarter pair for evenings if you have space.
Do I need cash in Europe?
Cards and contactless payments are widely accepted, but carry a little cash for small cafés, markets, and rural areas.
How do I avoid roaming charges in Europe?
Use a Europe eSIM for data instead of your home plan. One plan can cover many countries.