Packing for Europe: Checking the Last Boxes on the Backpacking Checklist

Being the planner that I am it should come as no surprise to anyone that I did my fair share of research leading up to this trip. In addition to having a Type-A personality, I like to think I also employ some common sense in most cases as well. That is exactly what that research was for me - common sense. How could I possibly go on a 25-day backpacking trip through Europe without reading blogs, asking questions, calling stores, and more? It would have been a lot harder, I can tell you that.

So based on my research (and personal decision) I came up with a packing checklist to help get my ducks in a row. I have included all of the items below, some with photos to give you a better visual. After my trip I will post an update, talking about what I packed and what I would do differently the next time, if anything at all. Hopefully it helps for any of you adventurous types planning a similar European exploration!



First thing is first: the backpack! This can make or break the trip, or so I have heard. I went to REI and purchased the women's Crestrail backpack. It is full of pockets and organization and it just so happens to be my favorite color - purple. Make sure you get your backpack fitted correctly and make sure you know how to pack it (heaviest things closest to your back). Size of the pack depends on how long you will be backpacking for and what you plan to bring. Just ask a store associate - they are very knowledgeable.



Clothes - **Keep in mind that I might pack a few more items than necessary due to being female and a lover of all things fashion. The basic idea here is to pack as lightly as possible to avoid carrying around any extra weight during the trip. I have to keep reminding myself that I will be able to do laundry so packing one outfit a day is unnecessary. I've been told a good rule of thumb is to pack for 5 days and then wash when needed.

The basic items you will need are as follows:

• Socks and Underthings - I brought more than the 5-day rule because of the advice I got from friends.

  

  Spandex Capris

• Pajama bottoms - I am simply using spandex shorts or capris that I am already bringing.  (Kills two birds with one stone).
• Stretch shorts - 2 pair - easy to match and comfortable for days with lots of walking
• Stretch capris - 2 pair - again, easy to match and comfortable.
• Yoga pants - 1 pair - need I say it again? (See above.)
• Jeans - 1 pair, 2 if you are feeling fashionable 
• Maxi skirts - 2 - Comfortable, can be dressed up or down and the ultimate plus - you can go longer without shaving your legs because they are full length! Score!
• Short sleeve t-shirts - 4 or 5 - Make sure they all mix and match with your bottoms so you can make more outfits out of less clothing!

  

  Maxi Skirt

• Long sleeve shirts - 1 - only if you think you will need it. I think in most cases a shirt with a rain jacket would suffice. 
• Tank tops - 2 or 3 - again, mix and match them with everything so you can wear them out!
• Scarfs - 1 or 2 - these are completely optional but mine are very light and barely take up any room - so why not?
• Bikini - 1 - bring this just in case you have time or visit a place where you can use it!

  

  Rain Jacket
• Water proof jacket - I've been told this is a must have so I picked up a light one that will pack away nicely and match with most outfits! The one I bought is pictured to the right and it is the Columbia Women's Switchback II Jacket from Cabellas ($34.99). 
• Running shoes - 1 pair - I am bringing my Nike Frees because they are comfortable and I can be on my feet for long periods of time without issue. 
• Sandals - 1 pair - I am bringing a pair of sandals for the places that will require a nicer outfit and for the skirts. 
• Flip Flops - 1 pair - these double as shower shoes as well as lazy shoes (or so I call them) for when you don't want to dress up.

Toiletries - **Make sure these are small enough to go with you on the airplane if you are planning to carry your pack on (3oz. is the acceptable amount).

• Shampoo and Conditioner - I am only bringing one or two to start me off and then I can replace them once I am there. Again - anything to make the pack lighter.
• Body wash
• Face wash
• Wash cloth - I wasn't told to bring this but think it might come in handy!
• Tooth paste and toothbrush - well duh! Just don't forget them!
• Razor - be careful bringing this on the airplane with you - might have to purchase them abroad.
• Deodorant - with all the walking you will be doing this is a must!
• Lotion
• Sunscreen - protect your skin!
• Chap stick - if you are like me, you always have this with you anyway.
• Face wipes/baby wipes - these could come in handy when you don't have a shower or sink easily accessible.
• Make up - I am bringing the bare minimum but it is definitely personal choice.
• Prescriptions - don't forget these
• Over the counter drugs - Advil, Aspirin, Anti-diarrhea (this one was advice-driven based on friends who backpacked before me and reminded me of all the local cuisine I would be consuming that my stomach might not be use to). 

Travel Necessities and Other Items - these are other things you may need.

• Plug converter - this is not a "may need" situation. You will need this if you want to charge a cell phone, camera, or use anything with American plugs attached to it. 

  

  Microfiber Towel

• Sleep sheet - if you are staying in hostels and don't want to use the things they offer.
• Travel towel - microfiber dries quickly and packs very small so I would recommend that. I am bringing the Fina Ultra Absorbent Waffle Weave Microfiber Hair and Body Towel. It is smaller than a normal body towel but the reviews said it worked just fine and dried quickly. I will give my own review on the updated packing blog when I return.
• Toiletry organizer bag - it was suggested on multiple blogs to bring the folding organizer that you can hang in the shower, but I am just bringing a small toiletry bag that fits all of my things. 
• Combination lock - bring this in case you'd like to leave your pack in a locker at a hostel. They don't provide them. Make sure you get one that lets you set your own combination. I purchased a two-pack at Walmart for $6. Do not bring a lock and key - you don't want to lose it and be out of luck.

  

  Combination Locks

• Money belt - I was urged to bring one with me and will urge everyone else to do the same unless my experiences tell me otherwise. I purchased the REI brand money belt with the RFID protector (no extra cost) and will review it when I return. 
• Notebook and pen - you never know when you will want or need to write something down.
• Laundry detergent - one travel pack will get you there and then replace it as needed. 
• Glasses/contacts - if you wear them, make sure you bring extra contacts in case they rip or get lost. 
• Inflatable water bottle - I was told they are useful because they can be easily stored when they are empty. Sold at the dollar store, in most cases. 
• Plastic bags - for keeping wet or dirty clothes separate from clean clothes.
• Travel lint roller - you don't want to be the only lint-filled person in Europe. I've heard they are very fashionable!
• Small blanket - this is what I am bringing in leu of a sleeping bag. I have heard it is easier to pack and works just the same. 
• Snacks - for the long train rides or when you don't want to purchase a meal. Granola bars, canned fruit, etc. 
• iPad - I am bringing mine for blogging/reading purposes on the trains but it is not necessary.
• Passport, Drivers License and copies - make sure to have copies as well as the real things with you in case they get lost or stolen. Also it would be smart to have them saved in your email in case you lose everything. That way you can get to the American Embassy and locate them via your email. 

So far this is what I plan to bring with me on my trip and yes - it will all fit in one backpack! If you have any questions, please feel free to ask and I will answer them to the best of my knowledge. Otherwise, I will write an update when I return and share my post-adventure secrets. 

Stay tuned for updates from Europe!