Europe Packing Guide: Fall and Winter!
Headed to Europe in the fall and winter seasons and need an idea of what to pack? Look no further!
[Want to see a Europe packing guide for spring & summer? Check out this post!]
If you're traveling for two weeks or longer, my best piece of advice for long-term packing is to pack like you're traveling for only two weeks.
Why? Since you'll either wash your clothes about every two weeks while traveling, or only travel for two weeks or less, think of any trip like you're "packing for two weeks." This will help prevent you from overpacking!
Trust me - overpacking is stressful if you're moving from city to city and have to lug around heavy bags! And if you ever feel like you didn't bring enough stuff, you can always buy something if you need to. :)
TIP: Since you'll be traveling over cooler months, wearing layers will be key. Feel free to adjust this as necessary depending on where you're traveling specifically.
Europe Fall & Winter Packing Checklist
Outerwear and Accessories
The outerwear and warm-weather accessories will be the most unique items in your luggage compared to your staples
1 Coat
1 Lightweight jacket for chilly days; great for layering under your coat for very cold days
2 Scarves: one lightweight for the plane, one heavy knit one for cold weather
Hat(s): a beanie works well for very cold climates, whereas chic hats are stylish year-round!
1 Pair of gloves
1 Pair of thick socks for any snowy/extra cold weather or cold weather activities
1 Umbrella: you can buy cheap umbrellas anywhere on the streets of Europe, so this isn't totally necessary. If you prefer to bring your own umbrella, find one that folds up/compacts small
1 Pair of sunglasses
Clothing
3-4 Tops: Which 3-4 tops do you wear ALL the time? Bring those! A tank, long sleeve shirt, sweater, and a dressier top can all mix and match for various scenarios
2-3 Bottoms: skinny jeans are a staple in Europe. Bring a pair or two of your favorite jeans and a stylish, sleek pair of leggings.
TIP: Fleece-lined leggings or tights are super comfy and extra warm!
1 Dress: easy way to dress up or dress down your outfit
Layering pieces (like a cami tank or fitted t-shirt under your regular shirt if it's really cold)
Socks, underwear, etc.
1-2 Exercise outfits
It started to get chilly in Istanbul at the beginning of November...I could've used another layer or even a coat! This was my go-to base outfit for fall, though - skinny jeans, a nice top, sweater/light jacket, and durable shoes.
Shoes
1-2 Pairs of durable sneakers (like Converse or Nike)
1 Pair of good boots
1 Pair of heels (optional): I highly recommend wedges or heels with a thick heel for walking on all the cobblestone streets
Personal Items/Toiletries
Any medication you take regularly
Cold medicine or other items you stock in your medicine cabinet at home
Vitamins and Emergen-C
Toothpaste, toothbrush
Travel-sized shower products (shampoo, body wash, razor, etc.) - you can restock abroad when you run out
Face moisturizer - this brand is my FAVORITE! It's very hydrating which is especially great for flying
Deodorant
Hairbrush
Hair products or tools
Febreze To-Go (a must!)
A very cold, December day in Prague!
Electronics
Phone and charger
Laptop/tablet and charger (if desired)
Camera and charger (if desired)
Kindle or book
Earbuds/headphones
Travel Must-Haves
Passport! Can't leave without it
Your travel itinerary (flights, accommodation), written down on pen/paper in case you lose your phone
Proof of onward travel - only if required to enter the country/countries you're visiting
The right adapter (watch this video to learn how adapters work)
Lock for hostel lockers
Which of these items should you bring in your carry-on? Check this post out!
November in Interlaken, Switzerland! I didn't go up to the mountains so I was fine with a coat, sweater, and warm boots.
What else do you need?
Skiing? Consider your ski jacket. Oktoberfest? You can buy dirndl and lederhosen in Germany, don't bother with inauthentic clothing!
How much stuff is this, really?
This may seem like a lot when you have it all written out, but I usually fit the above into carry-on only luggage (I got a new Away carry-on luggage for Christmas and also use my Tumi shoulder bag). I haven't had to use a larger-sized luggage since when I lived in Italy for six months.
Using space bags or packing cubes can help you stay organized and save space! Also, always roll your clothes instead of folding to maximize your luggage space.