How to pack for a month in Europe

There’s no need to get overwhelmed when it comes to packing for a lengthy trip. All you need is a solid game plan and a checklist, which luckily for you, we’ve put together below. Here’s how to pack for a month in Europe…

Clothes

This is often the toughest category to cut down, so best to nail it first for the sake of your sanity (and space). The trick is to bring versatile basics you already wear at home.

• 5 x bottoms – this can be 2 shorts, 2 skirts and a pair of jeans, or all pants if you’re traveling in colder months, but maximum is 5. And guys, this includes board shorts.
• 10 x tops – the idea here is to maximise your mix and match potential. Go for stripes and block colours in a range of t-shirts, long-sleeved shirts and singlet tops. Again, use your best judgement on what’s needed for the climate.
• 2 x dresses – optional, but two that can take you from the beach to the bar will be enough. Pro tip: black is best and can be easily dressed up with accessories.
• 3 x shoes – a pair of thongs/flip flops, a pair of sneakers and ONE pair of nice going out shoes. Sandals may be better in a lot of European countries than heels because of the old streets.
• Scarf and gloves if it’s winter
• Jacket or heavy coat if it’s going to be extra cold
• Pyjamas
• 10 x underwear
• 10 x socks
• Swimsuit (bring 2 if you’re island hopping or swimming every day).
• Hat

Toiletries

Keeping weight to a minimum is tough when it comes to toiletries. That’s why it’s best to scale back your routine (note: not hygiene) and pack light, with the intention to replace as needed.

• Toothbrush
• Toothpaste
• Floss (come on, you know it’s good for you)
• Ocean-friendly sunscreen
• Tweezers and small pair of scissors (or nail clippers)
• Makeup – reign in your inner makeup artist and just bring the basics
• Hairbrush
• Hair ties and bobby pins (AKA kirby grips)
• Wet wipes
• Deodorant
• Travel-size shampoo and conditioner – you’ll use WAY less than you think and you can always buy more over there
• Soap bar

Essentials

Time to cover off all the things that you CANNOT forget for your month in Europe. These are likely to go at the top of your bag or in your carry on.

• Small backpack to use as day bag
• Camera
• Phone (pro tip: bring an old one just in case)
• Laptop or iPad (optional)
• Book or e-reader (optional)
• Chargers – phone, laptop, camera, razor (if it plugs in, it needs a charger)
• Adapters – a universal one will come in handy if you travel a lot
• Power board – optional, but if you have a lot to charge it’s worth bringing
• Spare SD card
• Travel pillow
• Eye mask and ear plugs
• Towel
• Sunglasses
• Headphones
• Luggage lock
• Small first aid kit – nothing fancy, just some painkillers, band aids and antiseptic wipes
• Notebook and pen
• Small portions of laundry powder

So, that’s how to pack for a month in Europe! And remember, Europe has endless shops and anything extra you need you’ll be able to buy if you get really stuck. Happy travels!