Europe is a lot of things, but it's not one thing. A trip to Portugal is different from a trip to Sweden. Rome and Amsterdam have almost nothing in common. Packing well means understanding where you're going and what you'll actually need.

Here's what to think about before you go.

Know What You're Getting Into

Europe is 44 countries, each with its own weather, culture, and quirks. A few things worth researching:

Language. English is widely spoken in tourist areas, but less so outside major cities. Learning a few basic phrases (hello, thank you, excuse me) goes a long way. People appreciate the effort.

Customs. Tipping expectations vary wildly. In some countries it's expected, in others it's unusual. Meal times are different: dinner at 10pm is normal in Spain, while restaurants in Germany might stop serving by 9pm.

Documents. Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your trip. Check visa requirements for each country you're visiting. Rules vary depending on where you're from and how long you're staying.

Luggage

If you're moving between cities (train to Amsterdam, flight to Rome, bus to Florence), a carry-on is your friend. You'll walk on cobblestones, navigate narrow hotel stairs, and squeeze into train compartments. A massive suitcase makes all of that harder.

A lightweight, durable carry-on with wheels works well for most trips. If you're staying in one place, you have more flexibility.

Here's how to pack light if you need to trim down.

Surviving the Flight

Flights from North America to Europe are long: 7 to 10 hours depending on where you're going. The time zone shift is real. A few things help:

Wear comfortable clothes and layers (cabin temperature varies)
Stay hydrated: drink water, skip the wine
Move around when you can

More tips on long flights if you want the full rundown.

What to Pack

Clothes. Layers are key. European weather can shift quickly: sunny morning, rainy afternoon, cool evening. Pack items that work together and can be dressed up or down. Comfortable walking shoes are essential. You'll cover more ground on foot than you expect.

Toiletries. Bring travel-sized versions of what you need. Europe has pharmacies and stores everywhere, so you can buy most things if you forget.

Documents. Passport, travel insurance info, copies of your booking confirmations. Keep digital backups too.

Electronics. Phone, charger, portable battery. And the right power adapter. European outlets are different from North American ones. Pack, Repeat will tell you exactly what type of adapter you need for each country.

Money. Most of Europe uses chip-and-PIN cards. Contactless payment is common. Have some local currency for small purchases, but you won't need much cash in most places.

Power Outlets

This catches people off guard. Europe uses different plugs and voltages than North America. Most countries use Type C or Type F outlets, but the UK uses Type G.

Check what adapter you need before you leave. The best packing app shows you the outlet type for your destination—Pack, Repeat tells you exactly what you need so you don't arrive with the wrong adapter, or worse, no adapter at all.

General Tips

Stay connected. Get a local SIM card when you arrive, or set up an international plan before you go. Roaming charges can be brutal otherwise.

Use public transit. European trains, metros, and buses are excellent. In most cities, you don't need a car, and parking is expensive and stressful anyway.

Be aware of your surroundings. Europe is generally safe, but pickpockets operate in tourist areas. Keep valuables secure, especially in crowded places like train stations and popular attractions.

Before You Leave

A quick checklist:

Passport valid and visa sorted (if needed)
Travel insurance in place
Electronics charged
Power adapter packed
Someone knows your itinerary
Home secured: appliances unplugged, thermostat set, plants watered

With a bit of preparation, you'll spend less time worrying and more time enjoying the trip. That's the goal.

Packing for a European Vacation