Travel Light, Travel Smart: What to Pack for Europe

It’s shaping up to be another busy travel season! If you’re heading to Europe this summer or early fall, it’s never too early to start planning what to pack. Over the next few weeks, I’ll be sharing some travel capsule wardrobe ideas for various destinations. Today I’m starting with some of the summer travel wardrobe essentials that I always pack for Europe.

Whether you plan to check bags, or travel carry-on only, packing lighter and smarter is always a good idea. With some planning, you can avoid those “nothing to wear” days or having to shlep a bunch of stuff that never makes it out of the suitcase (or both!).

What to pack for Europe: a “starter kit” for summer or early fall

For most of us, a casual to smart casual wardrobe is all we’ll need for travel that may include city or country sightseeing, walking tours, museum visits, dining out, etc. If your itinerary includes outdoor activities that require special equipment (backpacking, kayaking, horseback riding, etc.) you’ll need to factor that into the equation.

When I’m planning a travel wardrobe, I use a “modular” approach. Rather than starting with outfits, I start with a foundation of neutral pieces that will be versatile, comfortable, and travel well. The idea is to create a cohesive capsule wardrobe with items that can be worn in multiple combinations. With these pieces as my starting point, I can easily put together travel wardrobes that will see me through 2 to 3 weeks at a time.

7 essentials I always pack for summer travel

Remember, this is just a “starter kit” or baseline for what I pack for Europe. I’ll add or adjust styles based on locale, climate, and activities. These pieces should be simple and easy to layer and style, so they can multi-task. (I’ve selected the pieces above for illustration. My own items may be different. And I’ve shared more options in a range of price points below.)

Comfortable & stylish footwear

When I plan a travel wardrobe, I always start with the shoes! 😁 Yes, I focus quite a bit on shoes, as they’re the most important part of a travel wardrobe to get right. There’s nothing like aching feet to spoil an otherwise lovely day. Fortunately, there are stylish options in a range of prices that can all work nicely.

Everyone’s feet are different, and may require different levels of arch support, cushioning, and flexibility. These styles above are ones that either I’ve traveled with myself, or that have been recommended by my readers.

• Sandals. I know not everyone likes to travel with sandals, but when it’s warm enough, I do. I’ve walked all over Paris in the summer in those Mephisto wedges, and found them both stable and comfortable. I prefer styles that can be adjusted across the toe area for fit and comfort. If you need a lower heel, this one is cute & well-reviewed for comfort.
• Sneakers. You’ll see sneakers everywhere in Europe now, on people of all ages. I think a sleek or classic style can work for a smart casual look even in the evenings. A side zip is a great feature for going through airport security, or if you have trouble tying laces.
• Slip-ons. If you prefer not to wear sandals but don’t want your feet to swelter in the heat, look for perforated or cut-out styles that allow for some air circulation.

If you feel that you need something more dressed up than sneakers, try a loafer or (supportive) ballet flat. But be sure there’s plenty of cushioning in the soles! You’ll find more tips and suggestions for travel shoes here: How to Choose the Best Shoes for Summer Travel.

And don’t worry if you need to wear socks or liners; visible hosiery is fine. (In fact, I find a much better selection of lightweight socks and other hosiery in Europe, lots of fun colors and patterns.) If you prefer a “no sock” look, I like these, and these.

Lightweight layers

If you’ll be traveling during summer or early fall, chances are you’ll have some mild to quite warm (hot) weather. Check the average temperatures at your destination for the month or weeks you’ll be visiting, but then be prepared for a few unseasonably warm or cool days. I always include pieces or combinations that will be comfortable 10-20 degrees (Farenheit) above or below the average temperature range.

I’ve often heard people say that they don’t pack much and just “shop when they get there.” That can work for some destinations, but if you’re not a standard size, or are trying to find something that’s outside of the current retail season (like a warm sweater in June or a linen dress in September), you may come up empty. I prefer to be prepared rather than have to scramble.

Travel essentials: pants & skirts

When you’re trying to pack light, it helps to utilize the concept of “tabletop dressing.” In other words, keep the bottom half simple and neutral, and focus on your tops for interest and variety. All of the pants and skirts shown are lightweight, and most are washable. I’ve shown various neutral options, but almost all of these styles are available in black as well.

You may notice that I haven’t included any shorts. While most European cities are becoming more casual, I still would probably not wear them in town. And many venues with “modest” dress codes (such as churches) may not allow them. Rather save shorts for beach areas or countryside. Go with a loose or cropped linen or cotton gauze pant, or a skirt or dress on the warmest days. Unless it’s sweltering, you will see jeans worn, often white in the summer.

Travel essentials: layering tops

I usually pack 2 tops for every bottom, in a mix of casual to smart casual styles. For summer travel, that usually means at least 1 collared shirt (I love linen) and a mix of layering tees and tanks. The shirt can be worn on its own or open as a top layer. The collar can be popped to keep the sun off the back of my neck, and the sleeves rolled up or down as the temperature requires.

I always pack some linen pieces for summer travel. It’s the most breathable and comfortable in hot weather, lightweight, and dries quickly. I’ve noticed that Europeans love their linen pieces in summer and don’t seem to worry too much about the wrinkles. But if they’re a deal-breaker for you, try lightweight cotton poplin pieces, which stand away from the body and help create airflow. Relaxed fit and oversized shirts are on trend this year, and will be more comfortable in heat than fitted ones, but wear what feels best for you.

Travel essentials: a lightweight jacket

I always pack a “topper,” even in summer. A lightweight jacket or blazer adds structure and can instantly help your outfit go from casual to smart casual. And with weather as unpredictable as it is now, it’s nice to have on hand for cooler days. (Air-conditioning isn’t as universal in Europe as here, and even then they don’t seem to put it on blast. You may find an exception here or there.)

All of these are lightweight and packable. For the warmest regions, you’ll probably want to stick to unlined styles.

I haven’t included dresses as I usually don’t wear them, but by all means bring them if you do. As with the other pieces, I’d recommend simple styles in breathable fabrics. Here are a few options (with sleeves!)…

These core pieces have served me well on countless trips and help take the guesswork out of packing. A well-edited travel wardrobe can make your journey feel more effortless and enjoyable—no matter the destination. I’d love to know: what are your must-pack travel wardrobe essentials? Let me know in the comments!

More summer travel tips:

What They’re Wearing in Paris This Summer

I’ve shared some of my tips for choosing the best travel bag here.

For more ideas and travel tips, be sure to check out my Travel Wardrobe Resource hub. 🧳 And if you need additional help, I offer personalized Travel Wardrobe Planning sessions via Zoom.

This article was previously published on June 19, 2023, and has been updated to provide more relevant product suggestions.

Affiliate links in posts may generate commissions for unefemme.net. See my complete disclosure policy here.