I’ve made my fair share of packing lists for backpacking Europe, whether that’s traveling with an actual backpack or bringing my trusty carry-on suitcase. We won’t think back to the days when I traveled with a checked suitcase AND a carry-on bag.
Well, I guess I walked so you guys can run. These essentials for traveling Europe will help you avoid my novice mistakes, pack light, and maximize your space.
Seriously, traveling Europe with just a carry-on makes a world of difference. So, let’s get into it. Here’s my essential European backpacking packing list, for anywhere from 2 to weeks in Europe and beyond.
Table of Contents
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Why backpack Europe?
I’ve talked about my issues with 2-week backpacking trips through Europe before on this blog, and I still stand by those opinions. Basically, my recommendation comes down to spending more time in less places.
A lot of new travelers come to Europe with the plan to see EVERYTHING. They spend 1 night in each place, wasting precious hours on trains, waiting to check in to hostels, and feeling absolutely drained.
My advice is to follow something like my 2 week Europe itinerary that covers Amsterdam, Paris, Barcelona, and multiple stops in Italy. It’s the perfect starting point for getting to know Europe without feeling too rushed. Every destination gets at least 2 nights.
If you are doing three weeks, add 1 or 2 more stops and stretch your time out so you can actually get to know the places you visit. Otherwise, you’ll get back from your trip and all the places will melt as one. “Was it in Amsterdam or Paris that we saw that awesome jazz show?” “Which city is this?” as you show a photo to your travel companion.
When you allow more time, each destination will feel more distinct in your mind and you’ll actually remember your trip better. Travel is largely for memories, isn’t it? I think so.
Travel backpack or suitcase for Europe?
This is a packing list for backpacking Europe but that doesn’t mean you have to travel with a backpack. I mean backpacking in the sense that you’re hopping from destination to destination.
I’ve traveled with suitcases and backpacks, and personally I prefer using a carry-on suitcase. This 20-inch American Tourister is a personal go-to for a reliable and budget-friendly option.
If you have a little more wiggle room with your budget, I would go with this Samsonite carry-on.
However, backpacks (if they are carry-on size) can be really functional but do require you to be a bit more minimalist with your packing list. If you want to use a backpack for Europe, I recommend this Bagsmart one because it is carry-on size.
Pros for carry-on suitcase for traveling Europe:
- Easier to organize
- Looks less “touristy” (i.e. better defense against pickpocketers)
- Airline safe and can be placed in overhead bin
- More spacious
- No stress on your back
Cons for suitcases:
- Wheels can be annoying on cobbled streets
- Not hands-free
- Going up and down stairs
Pros for using a travel backpack:
- Hands-free travel
- Easier to get around in crowds
- Can hold a lot of extra items by tying them to the bag
Cons for travel backpacks:
- Can be bulky to travel with
- Not airline safe because of the thinner material
- Often has to be checked, especially on budget Europe airlines
- Can be uncomfortable on the back
- Not to mention back sweat
- Screams “I’m a tourist”
And, finally, you can use a carry-on suitcase and small travel backpack (personal item) that fits under the seat in front of you during the flight. This is the best way to maximize space when planning a packing list for backpacking Europe. I use this the Bagsmart bag mentioned above for this.
Packing List for Backpacking Europe: Basics
Ok, now that you know the bag to choose for your trip, here are my essentials for traveling Europe.
Europe eSIM
Put down the map, or go au naturale if you prefer a little more of a challenge. However, you’ll still want to have an eSIM to help you stay safe, get where you’re going, and access vital information during your trip. (Because going through your domestic carrier is going to be spendy-spendy).
I use SimLocal for all my eSIM needs. You basically just choose the best one for your trip and then activate it the day you arrive.
The Europe ones cover pretty much all of Europe, including the UK. Go with 10 GB packages if you’re doing 2 weeks or so.
If you want to save money on your eSIM, use code SPIRITED when checking out. Thank you!!
Universal adapter plug
Assuming you’re coming from outside Europe, you will also need a universal adapter plug to charge your devices. Mainland Europe and the UK have different plugs, so getting one that will cover all your bases is best.
Plus, it will come in handy for any international trip you take, so it’s a worthwhile purchase beyond your backpacking Europe trip.
Travel insurance
Don’t forget insurance! It’s a safety net against the unexpected, whether that’s medical emergencies, trip cancellations, or lost luggage. I recommend World Nomads insurance from SafetyWing. It’s affordable, efficient, and the customer service is top-notch.
Power bank
If your phone sucks at staying charged, firstly, I feel you. Secondly, you’ll want to get a power bank so you’re not out and about lost with a dead phone.
Choose a sleek one like this that will easily fit in your day pack. Definitely a handy choice when making your packing list for backpacking Europe.
Anti-theft bag
Speaking of your day pack, pickpockets won’t stand a chance against you if you bring along an anti-theft bag. These work perfectly for days where you’re out exploring and they flatten out well so you can place them in your carry on when need be.
This is my favorite anti-theft crossbody bag but if you’re bringing a bigger camera and want to keep it in your bag when not taking photos, I recommend something a little bigger like this one.
Water bottle
Most of Europe isn’t big on the whole free water thing. So, it’s best to bring your own water bottle that you can refill at your accommodation or when you’re out and about during the day.
Restaurants might not be eager to give you free water but most cities have fountains and stations where you can refill your water bottle for free.
Essential Clothing for Backpack Europe
One of the most stressful parts about making a packing list for Europe is choosing what outfits to bring. This will slightly depend on the time of year and destinations you’re visiting. So, check the weather/climate before you plan too many outfits.
However, you can use these recommendations to plan Europe outfits for fall, spring, and summer (depending on where you’re going). I’ve made notes on swaps for summer below.
- 4-5 pants (if summer, 1 pair of pants and 3 shorts/skirts)
- 1 dress
- 7 shirts (mix of long-sleeve and short sleeve; more tanks for summer in Italy, Spain, etc)
- 1 cardigan (for layering in the day and cooler nights)
- 1 jacket (weather appropriate)
- 7-10 pairs of underwear (you can bring compact laundry detergent sheets to wash on the go)
- 7 pairs of socks, depending on how many days you plan to wear sneakers or boots
- 3-4 bras/bralettes
- 1 scarf (plus you might need to cover your shoulders in churches if in a tank top)
- 1 Swimsuit (if needed)
- Comfortable sneakers
- Pair of flats (I prefer these mary janes)
- 1 pair of sandals or boots (choose 1 depending on the weather)
Minimize Your Toiletry Bag When Backpacking Europe
Hear me out, you don’t need to bring a lot of makeup or skincare products. Just bring your essentials. Here’s what I recommend when packing for Europe.
- 1 face wash
- Your makeup basics, if you wear it. (1 foundation, concealer, mascara, lipstick)
- 1 moisturizer
- Sunscreen
- Shampoo bar (much easier for travel!) Bonus that most can double as body wash.
- 1-2 eye patches for those jet-lag days
- Toothpaste tabs (another liquid alternative)
- Toothbrush
- Floss
- Laundry detergent sheets (to do laundry halfway)
- Hairtie, clip, etc
- Deodorant
For any liquids in bigger containers, you can put them in these silicone tolietry containers. I put a bunch of toothpaste tabs in one and filled the other with salve. And that’s it! You shouldn’t need much more than that, if anything.
Most hotels and many hostels have blow dryers, so don’t waste space packing your own. As for towels, if you have space you can bring a lightweight microfiber towel. Otherwise, all hotels will have towels. Some hostels give them to you for free. Some charge a small fee around 1 euro.
I actually have a hostel packing guide you can check out for more tips on staying in hostels while backpacking Europe.
European Backpacking Packing List Extras
Whether you want to take photos, document your trip, or make content, here are some of the other items you might want to bring for your trip but not necessarily.
Compact, mirrorless camera
Mirrorless cameras are like DSLRs without the added weight and bulk. They are sleek, can be customized with different lenses, and are more travel-friendly.
I always bring one of my two Olympus cameras when I travel. My current favorite is my Olympus Pen. It takes gorgeous photos, it’s beautiful itself, and it’s compact enough to fit in my purse.
Mini tripod
If you’re traveling solo in Europe or want photos of you and your companion, a compact tripod you can mount your phone or camera on will be a gamechanger.
I usually bring my professional tripod, but it’s becoming a bit bulky and annoying to put up and take down every time I want to take a photo of myself.
That’s why I’m switching things up for an upcoming trip and bringing this travel tripod. It mounts your iPhone or a lightweight camera, like a mirrorless one.
If you have a DSLR, I also have this mini tripod. You can take shots on the ground with a cool angle where it still shows the background or prop it up on something you see when you’re out exploring (stairs, a tree stump, etc.)
Journal
If you want to take notes or write out your thoughts each evening, you can definitely make space in your backpack for a small journal and a pen.
It’s an easy addition to your Europe packing list that doesn’t take up much space and helps you remember each place you visit. Bonus points if you save little tidbits from your trip (receipts, business cards, tickets) and turn it into a Europe travel junk journal.
Fujifilm Instax
A little chunky, but if you want Polaroid-style photos during your Europe backpacking trip, these make for cute memories. I’ve brought mine on a few trips and I’ve always been pleased with the results.
Packing cubes
If you like to stay organized while you travel, then getting some packing cubes for your suitcase for your backpack is a good idea. These help save space and keep everything neat.
I usually bring just 1 packing cube and I use it for my bras and underwear. Others like to have packing cubes to divide shirts, shorts, underwear, etc. You do you!
Small laundry bag
I recommend keeping your dirty laundry separate from the rest of your stuff when you’re traveling. This will help keep your clean clothes smelling fresh, and keep you organized and efficient when laundry day arrives.
Europe Packing Tips
Knowing what to bring is one thing, but use these tips to make things even easier when you’re backpacking Europe.
- Take photos of your outfits in advance. This way you have a rough idea of what to wear each day, weather permitted.
- Make a packing list. I know you’re reading my Europe backpacking packing list, but you’ll want to write down everything you need and check it off to make sure you don’t forget anything. I had a friend forget her passport once… that was a nightmare.
- Be thoughtful about the shoes you bring. It’s a common misconception that Europeans don’t wear sneakers; they do! So, there is no shame AT ALL in wearing sneakers during your trip. You’ll fit right in. Best advice, comfort over style.
- Neutrals for the win. When it comes to the pieces of clothing you bring, neutrals will help you mix and match and look chic everywhere you go on your trip. If neutrals aren’t your thing, try to stick to a general color palette to make outfit planning easier.
- Kon Mari Method: This is a folding technique that saves space in your suitcase. Basically, you need to roll up all your clothes into neat cylinder-like shapes. Here’s a little more on using this folding method when packing for Europe.
- Kindle: Regardless of your travel style, you’re going to have a bit of downtime at airports, trains, buses, or even when you want to have a relaxing afternoon at a cafe. So, bring a book or a Kindle! This is the Kindle I use. I prefer it for traveling because you can read in the dark, it takes up practically no space, and gives you access to endless books compared to bringing a single book.
Europe Packing FAQ
Before you go, here are some last questions answered when making a Europe packing list.
What size backpack for 2 weeks in Europe?
For your European backpacking packing list, 40-50L will be your best bet for something that’s spacious but not too bulky. Remember you’ll probably have to check the bag, so keep this in mind when planning your backpacking trip.
That’s why I recommend this type of backpack if you can pack really light. They are designed to fit under the seat in front of you, or in the overhead bin if filled completely.
How much should I budget for backpacking Europe for 2 weeks?
This depends on your travel style and if you are staying in hostels or hostels during your itinerary. In general, you can expect to spend anywhere from $1,500 – $3,500 USD, not including flights.
For example, hostels can range from $10 to $60 a night, so let’s average $30 a night for 14 days. That’s $420.
If you stay in hotels, you can expect to spend $80 to $150 a night for a decent, budget hotel depending where you are. That’s $1,400 for $100 hotels for 14 nights. If you travel with someone and can split the cost of a hotel, it’s not too bad but still nearly double the price of a hostel.
Beyond accommodation, remember to check prices for trains and buses, activities, museums tickets, and food. Most hostels have kitchens, but most hotels don’t offer that unless you’ve got an airbnb for studio hotel rental.
Thanks for reading my essential packing list for backpacking Europe in any season! Please feel free to drop a comment below with ANY questions or concerns. I will get back to you as soon as I see it 🙂 Happy European travels!
