Planning an international trip to Europe and not sure what to pack? Each country is a little different in terms of what you may need. However, this guide provides a basic overview, taking into account various cultures and customs. Keep reading to learn more.
The Ultimate Packing List for Europe
Below is our packing list, with specifics related to each included below.
- Passport & Visas
- Portable Charger
- Converters
- International Hair Dryers * Straighteners
- Headphones
- Neck Pillow
- Phone
- Local Currency & Credit Card
- International Drivers License
- Student ID
- Clothing
- Walking Shoes
- Documents
- Dirty Laundry Bag
- Umbrella
- Prescriptions
- Toiletries
- Sunscreen
Passport & Visas
Be sure to pack your passport and any Visas you may need (For most European countries, Americans are expected to need a Visa in 2026).
Pro Tip: Be sure that your passport is also signed. Many countries will not allow you in if your passport is not signed prior to entry.
Portable Charger
We recommend packing fully charged portable chargers. Although, many international flights will have a place to plug in your phone, these don’t always work. Additionally, even though terminals will have plugs you can use, these are often in use by other people. Portable chargers are great for ensuring your phone remains fully charged, particularly on long flights or long travel days.
Converters
Before traveling, it’s so important to pack converters, since these are harder to get when already overseas. Additionally, just because you’ve been to Europe before does not mean you have the right converters.
International Hair Dryers and Straighteners
It’s not enough to pack a wall converter if you plan on using a hair dryer or straightening your hair. You will also need to convert the voltage. I honestly have never had much luck with voltage converters. Instead, I recommend investing in hair dryers and straighteners that have a knob that allow you to chain the voltage based on the country you are visiting. Be sure to reach instructions before using.
Headphones
Headphones are important, especially on long flights and travel days. However, in addition to your Bluetooth or noise-cancelling headphones, we recommend packing headphones that can plug into the TV set during your transatlantic flight.
Neck Pillow
Neck pillows are vital for an international flight and can help ensure you get a better night of sleep.
Phone
In addition to packing your phone, you will want to consider if you will need it while traveling and ensuring you have a plan covering your minutes. Sometimes, this can be done with an international sim card or simply calling your phone company. If you have T-Mobile, international perks are often included.
Pro Tip: If you do not have an international plan, be sure that “data roaming” is turned off. This can incur a big bill when you return home.
Local Currency, Debit Card & Credit Card
Many small businesses in Europe will prefer cash and many not even take your credit card. For this reason, be sure to get foreign currency before you travel. You can also use your debit card to take out local currency (but be sure to check with your bank to discover more about related fees).
For big purchases, we still recommend putting everything on a credit card. This includes hotel stays and rental cards, since this provides you with more protection than cash or a debit card.
Pro Tip: If you are going somewhere like Switzerland, be sure that your credit card has a pin. Many machines will require this before completing a transaction.
Health Insurance
You could consider getting insurance before leaving, which will save you a big headache if something were to happen. Alternatively, you can check in with your health insurance in the US to see which hospitals take them in your destination country.
International Drivers License
If you are renting a car, we recommend getting an international driver’s license. Not all European countries will require it, but it’s better to be safe than sorry. It’s also very easy to get your IDL (only costs $20 at your AAA). Be sure to also bring your American license, since the IDL is only valid when presented with your regular license.
Student ID
If you are looking to travel cheaply across Europe and are still a student, do not forget to pack this! In many countries, you can visit sites for free.
Pro Tip: Some places will only take certain types of student IDs. For example: When I went to Turkey, I had to use an international student ID, which I had to register before going. If you plan on using a student ID while traveling, check requirements beforehand.
Clothing
The clothing you will pack will heavily depend on the time of year you travel and the climate. Even if it is summer, not all of Europe is hot (For example: I went to the Aran Islands in July and still need a sweater).
Pro Tip: One of our tips for traveling to Italy is to ensure you have a shirt with sleeves and either a dress or pants that go below the knees (even in summertime!). You will not be allowed to enter churches and many historic sites if your shoulders/ knees are showing.
Good Walking Shoes
European cities tend to be very walkable, so we recommend a good pair of shoes.
Documents
We recommend printing out tickets and other important information. Even if you pay for international data, we have found that this tends to be slower while abroad.
Dirty Laundry Bag
A dirty laundry bag will ensure that your clean clothes remain separate from your dirty ones. I usually just pack a plastic bag, but a mesh bag is fine too!
Umbrella
It’s hard to avoid the rain in Europe, since the city is more walkable. We recommend packing one, but it’s just as easy to buy them while there.
Prescription
It’s important to pack your prescription, but be sure to also make sure you can even bring it. Some countries have strict laws around prescription drugs. If you are allowed to bring it, you may need to include a physical copy of your prescription or a doctor’s not.
Toiletries
Toiletries can include contact lens solution, feminine products, hair products, and soap. Many hotels will also offer free products, so what you want to bring will depend on your preferences.
Sunscreen
If you are planning a summer holiday, don’t forget about the sunscreen. Even if you plan on buying some while there, it’s good to at least bring a small bottle with you.
Other Packing Tips
Use Packing Cubes
Packing cubes are the best way to keep things organized in your bags while saving space.
Check Airline Restrictions
Each airline will have different restrictions in terms of the weight allowed for bags and carry-ons. Be sure to check with each flight before packing.
Weigh Your Carry-On
Even if you are traveling with just a backpack, weight does matter for carry-ons in Europe. Many airlines won’t allow more than 8 pounds in the overhead, so plan accordingly or you will have to check your bag.
Pack Essentials in Your Backpack
If your luggage gets delayed, you will want to make sure you have the most important things in your backpack. This can include a change of clothes or a bridesmaid dress (if you are heading to an international wedding for example).
Final Thoughts
Anything we forgot in our international packing checklist above? Any other tips we forgot to mention? Leave them in the comments below.
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