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How to Dress Like a European – The Ultimate Packing List for Europe

Last Modified: January 31, 2024 //  by  Anda //   104 Comments

Ready to spend a couple of weeks in Europe but still struggling with your packing list? Most of us care how we look and how others perceive us. But even if looking sharp is not your main priority, blending in with the locals and not being labeled a tourist is always a good idea when you travel. In this guide I will give you some guidance on how to dress like a European and avoid embarrassing fashion mistakes.

But before I tell you what to pack for your trip to Europe, there are a few things you need to know about the European dress style.

Table of Contents

European Fashion

European dress style is all about the fit, how to dress like a european, can you be fashionable on a budget, european attire for women, european attire for men, what you should not wear in europe, where to buy good quality clothes in europe, how to avoid looking like a tourist.

If this is your first time in Europe, there may be a few things that will surprise you . And one of them is how the Europeans dress. You will notice that Europeans always seem nicely dressed and well put-together. While in North America we tend to favor comfort over style, in Europe people are way more concerned about the way they look. 

While there isn’t a dress code per se , the European dress style is first about  chic and then about comfort. You don’t see many Parisians wearing something ill-fitting or unflattering just because it’s comfortable!

Traditionally, clothing is much more expensive in Europe than in other parts of the world. But it’s also of very good quality. European women may not have many outfits, but what they have is of good quality and it fits nicely. 

If you want to dress like a European woman, think chic and elegant . You don’t need to wear a cocktail dress or high heel shoes in order to be elegant. All you need is pair up your clothes in such a way that you don’t look like a hiker.

There is a great variety of clothes and shoes which can be both comfy and chic. Keep it simple. You don’t need a hole lot of cloths, but what you wear should make a statement.

What I need to make clear from the start is that I’m not a fashionista. However, as someone born and raised in Europe, I can give you some good advice about how to dress like a European.

I also need to clarify that in this article I basically discuss how people dress in the major European cities like Paris, London, Venice, Rome, Amsterdam, etc. In smaller European towns, resorts, or in the countryside the fashion is very different. Therefore, your packing list for Europe will vary depending on your destination. Packing for 3 days in Paris will certainly differ from packing for a few days in Zermatt . 

Not everybody can afford designer label clothing, but that doesn’t mean you can’t be fashionable on a budget. Today it’s actually a bigger demand for low-budget fashion than it is for high end designers. As a result, most of the department stores carry very stylish clothes at very affordable prices.

If you look up any fashion magazines or online websites, you will find plenty of fashion ideas that will help you stay fashionable within your budget. It’s easy to create your own fashion style with with some simple and trendy ideas.

Packing List for Europe

Here is what you could consider for your packing list for Europe:

When traveling to Europe remember that people seeing you briefly for the first time will judge you completely by your appearance and will treat you accordingly. As a traveler, most of your personal contact will be with hotel clerks and restaurant waiters. To get a good table and good service you need to dress as if you deserve it. Finding the perfect balance between comfort and style may be difficult, but it’s not impossible.

So here is what you could wear in Europe as a woman:

  • Comfortable, but nice shoes

European streets, subways and busses are very crowded, so open toe shoes or are not always a good choice. Unless it’s hot. Since we started traveling in 1989 I have walked hundreds of miles in Born , Ecco , and Clarks shoes and have always been happy with these brands.

If you travel to Europe in winter you should pack a pair of low heel boots, as they are more comfortable on the uneven pavement of the European streets. The most popular winter shoes for Europe are Dr. Martens. This is a military style boot that is thick and comfortable, but not very flattering for older women. I personally prefer Born and Clark’s, which are a little more elegant but still comfortable.

•Dresses, skirts, dress pants, short-sleeve and long-sleeve tops  

Depending on the season, you  should bring some short-sleeve/long-sleeve tops , a sweater dress to wear with tights , a skirt and some dress pants . All these items are a must for your Europe packing list.

Wearing jeans is not my first choice, but if you wear them with a pair of boots , a nice top  and a blazer , you’ll be just fine. 

For fall or spring, a trench coat or a  blazer  that you can wear over your dress, or with any pair of pants.                                                   

• Scarfs and accessories

Scarfs, belts, and some costume jewelry are great accessories for your outfits. They add color and style to any outfit and they are easy to carry around. You can wear the same dress three days in a row, yet make it look like a different outfit if you wear it with a scarf, a belt, or a piece of jewelry. I have a great collection of scarfs and belts which are always part of my packing list for Europe.

• A Nice Bag (preferably not cross-body)

Bags are fine for both men and women. The best would be a shoulder, anti-theft bag that lies somewhat flat to your body, so you can lay your hand over it as need. Also, backpack-style bags work great. Not the kind that you would wear on a hiking trip, of course, but the small leather ones that you can wear both on your shoulder or on your back.

Don’t bring a messenger/cross-body bag to Europe! No one carries them there, except the American tourists.

European males are equally preoccupied with their looks as women. But as a male, the packing guides out there are pretty vague. If you want to dress like a European man think basic luxury and  neat and tight clothes.

When traveling to Europe you’ll need to make a little investment into some good quality clothes. Also, make sure your clothes fit nicely and don’t sag. Europeans love their clothes to fit a little slimmer, almost tight. Therefore, if you want to look  Parisian, don’t wear baggy clothes!

 Another trick to make you look European is to layer up: shirt, sweater and coat on top. Men in Europe love to wear layers, especially during the colder seasons. 

• Pick slacks over jeans and shirts over T-hirst

Leave the jeans and T-shirts for your travels to Las Vegas and pack a couple of pairs of slacks , a few casual shirts and a nice blazer when you travel to Europe. Most importantly, reconsider the synthetics, but keep leather, cashmere, denim, cotton and  linen. 

If you travel during the cold season, a good quality  coat (which may be a bit pricier), a cashmere turtleneck and a scarf will really give you an edge.

• Choose comfortable, but dress shoes

It’s much easier for men to find comfortable shoes, since they are not after high heels. Grab some leather pointed shoes in neutral colors, like blacks and browns. Make sure they are always polished and clean. It’s important to choose comfortable shoes, with thicker rubber sole, that can absorb shock. In Europe you’ll most likely do a lot of walking and thin soles will give  you a lot of pain.

When it comes to European fashion, there are a few faux pas that you should avoid at all costs. So here is what NOT to pack for Europe: 

• College/university apparel

University wear is not a big fashion trend in Europe. If you spot anyone in Europe wearing a Harvard, UC Berkley or UCLA sweatshirt, chances are they are a tourist.

• Baseball caps and athletic gear

While it may be comfortable to wear athletic gear while sightseeing, it’s generally considered a fashion faux pas in many European cities. Instead, opt for casual but stylish clothing that blends in with the locals. 

• Khakis, shorts and sweat pants

Khakis, shorts and sweat pants will be frowned upon in most European cities, therefore you shouldn’t include them in your packing list. Unless you are planning to go hiking in the mountains, shorts and sweat pants are a no-no in most European cities.

• Tennis Shoes, Convers, Flip-Flops

Flip-flops and sneakers may be popular among the youngsters in many countries. In fact, they are so popular in California that most young people wear them everywhere. But nothing screams  ‘tourist’ like bouncing down the streets of Europe in Flip-flops, converse, or tennis shoes! 

• Flashy colors and clothing embellished with flags or chauvinistic slogans

Patriotic or flashy logos may work in the USA, but they are considered ostentatious and perceived as a lack of class in Europe. Americans love to wear strong colors and patterns , but Europeans like subtle colors. Wearing bright, flashy colors will signal that you are a tourist from a mile away, therefore you should stay away from them.

• Cameras around your neck

We all love to take home digital memories from our travels, but wearing your camera around your neck wherever you go is bad taste. Besides, broadcasting to everyone that you are a tourist may increase your risk of attracting thieves. 

It’s best to keep your camera in a bag and take it out only when you are planning to use it.

READ NEXT: Best Time to Travel to Europe

If you live in a small town where it’s difficult to find fancy clothes, don’t panic. You can always do some shopping while visiting Europe. Don’t get set back by the huge prices you see displayed in the windows.

Get inside and look through the inventory. You’ll be surprised how many great deals you can find, even in the most sophisticated stores. In fact, I strongly encourage you to buy some good quality clothing from Europe. You’ll most likely turn some heads when you wear them back home.

Some people couldn’t care less if they have the word “ tourist ” written all over them. However, blending in with the locals has many advantages. And perhaps the most important one of them is that you’ll be less of a target for petty theft. Here are a few other things to consider if you don’t want to be labeled a “ tourist “:

• Don’t carry maps or guidebooks everywhere you go
• Walk with a purpose, not like someone who is lost
• Don’t carry large backpacks everywhere
• Learn local customs and etiquette
• Avoid taking selfies
• Eat where the locals do

I hope my post answered some of your questions about European fashion. So how does one dress like a European? By simply looking casually elegant. At any rate, have a great trip regardless of what you wear or not wear.

If you found this information useful, please pin it for later : 

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Anda is an award winning travel writer, avid globetrotter and passionate photographer. She is the voice behind "Travel Notes & Beyond," a collection of stories and travel impressions from her wanderings around the world. When she is not busy writing, traveling, or editing photographs, you can find her hiking in the foothills behind her house together with her husband and their dog.

Reader Interactions

February 14, 2024 at 4:57 pm

Hello Anda,

You have brought up a timeless and forever important topic and intersting too. You also have a wonderful website blog that’s easy on the eyes. I would like to say that I notice here on your blog and on many other blogs or forums about “What to wear in_____”, it’s also about SECURITY. Of course it’s about fashion, style and being presentable and respecting the culture and people’s ways of the country, but dressing well and dressing of the mode of a place helps keep you away from becoming a target of theft, scams, and God-forbid other crimes from horrible unbecoming people, which has been an issue for some time plaguing European countries unfortunately. But this one is a different topic altogether.

So when you hear or even say “be safe out there” or something like that, you must know that safety is also about the way you dress, not just in your activities or where you go. If you dress up inappropriately or not even trying to blend in, will simply make you as good as “wearing” a target or red flag ready to be approached, bothered or harrassed by those problemtic people.

February 14, 2024 at 5:19 pm

Thanks for your comment, Antonio. I’m glad you my article useful.

September 22, 2023 at 4:34 pm

You seem to be one of those people who pride themselves on looking like tourists. My only question is why are you reading posts about how to dress in Europe when you are convinced that you already know how?

September 17, 2023 at 4:01 pm

“No athletic gear”: Um, what? We have clearly experienced European countries differently. I’ve seen more Adidas athletic clothes over there than on the street in the U.S. Also lots of slide-on sandals in summer (so much for “ no sandals”).

People *do* wear shorts in many European countries, especially given the recent heat waves. It was a thing from the 90s to not wear shorts — recently I heard a German say that nothing will make you stick out more than wearing long pants and leather shoes when it’s 35 degrees C. Just wear the shorts already if others are.

Ball caps and Converse are also more common than people think.

September 18, 2023 at 10:37 am

Obviously, you’ll see some people wearing athletic shoes, shorts or cargo pants in Europe, but those are mainly tourists or very young kids. Generally, Europeans dress much more stylish than Americans. And even though it has changed a little over the years and Europeans now dress more casually, the difference is still visible.

August 30, 2023 at 8:09 pm

I too enjoyed your suggestions about travel. Yes, I agree that whatever an American wears in Paris will be unfashionable if it is comfortable. In the UK, things seemed more relaxed. In Ireland at the cliffs of Mohr, an American was extremely fashionable, but dressed in white wool clothing, covered in mud from the cliff trails. So dress appropriately for weather, mud, etc. Secondly, to Americans I say stick to single tone pieces of clothing and lots of different silk scarves to change up the outfit. People, unless on a tour bus, will only see you for a day. My husband and I try to fit into the culture. It was fun when a proprietor of a store in the Alps could not decide in which language to speak to us, until we spoke to each other. We are American, but my husband’s heritage is Swiss-German. Enjoy the journey.

August 18, 2023 at 10:54 am

Thank you Anda this was a great article and very helpful guide. I loved the Primo Sacchi handbag in the suggestions and ordered it. It seems like just what I’m looking to carry a few essentials and beautiful quality as well. Hope it works out.

August 18, 2023 at 5:30 pm

Thank you for your kind words. It’s comments like yours that encourage me to keep writing. Hope the beg will work for you.

October 13, 2022 at 6:25 am

Very interesting and informative article. I’m getting ready for a trip to Europe and this is really helpful.

dave barnes

August 30, 2022 at 9:19 am

You might show styles for fat old American males. Not all of us are emaciated 20-something models. On the other hand, cargo shorts are always in style. In 2019, we were having lunch in a mid-scale restaurant in Bologna and noticed that the table of 6 Italian males were all wearing cargo shorts.

July 22, 2022 at 1:16 pm

Converse is definitely popular in Europe, BUT make sure they are in conversative colors (white, black) and kept CLEAN. I almost never see a worn-out or dirty pair, they don’t add character, just sloppiness.

July 21, 2022 at 6:49 pm

We are taking a river cruise and I don’t like the look of sneakers and shorts AT ALL, not ever, not even in the US. I wear sneakers while exercising and with leggings occasionally. But—I also think Borns, Clark’s, and those other awful “comfort” sandals look no better. They are hideous and unflattering period. Soooo…my question is, what do EUROPEANS wear when they have many days of walking tours? Which version of ugly do you suggest I wear? I’m 42 and thin and fit, and those school marm you suggested make me want to cry. But sneakers, ugh! Please help. 🙂

July 21, 2022 at 9:45 pm

I know what you are saying, Susan. I’m also trying to compromise between feeling comfortable and looking good. Unfortunately we have very few good choices here, in the US, which is why I buy my shoes in Europe. I like Born, Clark and Ecco, that sometimes have good looking and comfortable shoes.

January 19, 2023 at 8:24 pm

Adidas, Veja, Tretorn. A gum sole is very in right now. Allbirds are my favorite because they are extremely comfortable. Sandals in a city are gross and you will hate it, trust me.

January 20, 2023 at 1:41 pm

I walk the a lot in sandals in summer and didn’t feel it’s “gross,” but I guess that depends where you walk. I usually avoid filthy neighborhoods, lol!

July 1, 2022 at 11:12 am

People don’t remember what you were wearing after you die, but they remember how you treated them. Most people will choose to spend their money on experiences (Trip to Europe) over fashion and I will always support that. I think you can look respectful and mindful on a budget. I can buy a cheap scarf at Target if that’s what it takes and move my Travelon black pickpocket/slash-proof purse strap to my shoulder instead of across my body because you’re telling me fashion should take priority over getting my passport and credit card stolen?? My husband is going to wear his favorite dark blue Asics and Levi’s no matter what fashion shoe or pants I try and put him in. (He’s paying for the trip) and I’m okay with that because I’m just grateful he worked hard to help pay for the experience.

July 1, 2022 at 11:21 am

Dressing like a European doesn’t mean spending a fortune on clothing, Michelle. You can have good taste and dress fashionably even from Target. For some people blending with the locals and not looking like a tourist is important, but if for you it isn’t, then just don’t do it.

July 29, 2022 at 10:18 am

Dear Meryn, First of all thank you for taking time to comment. I really appreciate that. As a European myself, I am well aware that the dressing style in Europe is changing lately, but the basic principles are still the same. My article is not intended to give advice about the latest fashion, but rather some general ideas about how people dress in Europe. You can always wear what you like in Europe, as long as you dress in a stylish manner.

September 8, 2022 at 3:26 pm

Damn straight! Nobody we pass on the street during our travels gives our fashion choices more than a fleeting thought. Be comfortable, be safe. Screw anyone that finds your fashion choices distasteful. That’s their problem, not mine. Wear what makes you feel good and enjoy your time traveling. Don’t waste time stressing about what everyone will think of you.

September 8, 2022 at 5:46 pm

Nothing wrong with dressing any way you want, Jane. What puzzles me is why are you reading this post if you don’t care to dress like a European?

November 19, 2022 at 12:46 pm

I was in Europe in the ’60’s and have no desire to go back. Dress codes in public were oppressive, women wore dresses or skirts, never pants or shorts. Now people are held back from flying home if they test for covid and have to stay in a motel 14 days instead of flying home with spouse or friends. Unless people are in social classes (wealthier class) people don’t care in the U.S. about fashion if clothes are clean and basic incl joggers or nike’s worn most anywhere. Ripped jeans and revealing ill fitting clothing is a turn off no matter where your at.

July 24, 2023 at 1:18 pm

I laughed when I read this because I could have written it. I completely agree with what you said. I trip to Europe should not require a complete redesign of your wardrobe. Also, I am lucky I have already convinced my husband he cannot wear his cargo shorts to DINNER. If he wants to wear them sightseeing in July, so be it. He is a kind and polite person and I want him to enjoy the trip as much as me. I will probably make some adjustments to my packing selection, but I will do so out of what I currently own.

June 13, 2022 at 2:11 am

Black or white low converse are worn regularly here, but as the casual twist to an outfit. Those and vans are much loved because they are cobblestone and hill friendly. Smooth leather soles are deadly. No one looks good in a cast.

May 20, 2022 at 4:14 pm

I was wondering how people can even walk around with heels all day in the city. I’ll be in Europe soon walking constantly and I’m not sacrificing my comfort over a fashionable and uncomfortable shoe.

May 21, 2022 at 3:06 am

Oh, you don’t have to sacrifice comfort over fashionable. You can wear nice, lower heel shoes.

April 3, 2022 at 6:09 am

I am a Brit born and bred. Jeans are perfectly acceptable for daytime casual wear here but never ever wear double denim. An absolute no-no.

February 15, 2020 at 5:29 pm

I know this beautiful article/post is to help people blend in and not look like a tourist when visiting other countries, in this case specifically European countries, but besides the “not looking like a tourist” factor and purpose, here’s a huge point: RESPECT. It’s all about showing respect for the places and societies you visit or travel to. We are not all the same. We all different, and when you visit countries, it is not your country and it is not a Disneyworld. Countries are real life and real society. It also goes back to the classic saying “When in Rome, do as the Romans do”. But overall, it’s about respect.

August 5, 2019 at 8:03 pm

I’d agree with most of these points, but I WILL carry a cross-body messenger type bag on my upcoming European vacation. It is small and black, not “loud,” but it’s a necessity for me when spending a day walking through larges cities like Rome or Paris and needing to keep items handy, but secure. Maybe the locals can get away with a shoulder bag, but they probably aren’t carrying all the cash, credit cards, passports, and electronic devices I’ll have with me. And they aren’t going to be targeted by pickpockets the way I will once someone hears my accent and figures out I’m American. So yeah, if that makes me look like a tourist, well that is what I am after all. I’m not going out of my way to flaunt it, but some things like a cross body bag are non-negotiable for me.

Anda Galffy

August 6, 2019 at 10:59 am

I hear you, Lisa. We are all concerned about petty theft when we travel. No worries about the cross-body bag. Yea sure, the Europeans don’t wear them, but if that makes you feel safer do it.

Maite Stephens

July 17, 2022 at 9:28 am

I am from Europe and I can assure you that when we, Europeans , travel for vacation in Europe and are sightseeing, we wear crossed body bags to prevent being a target while looking at building, or walking in a museum! The rest of the advice is on point.

December 11, 2021 at 6:35 pm

Lisa, i was going to return my anti theft Crossbody bag until I read your response. I actually marked off to return my Crossbody bag on the notes I take researching my three week trip to Western Europe in the shoulder season, September ’22.

Now I can relax a little, along with my pick pocket proof pants. I want to look like I have moey but I’m prepared at the dame time. Thanks for you excellent feedback. Besides that I thought the article was spot on.

June 24, 2019 at 12:57 pm

This article is definitely accurate in the sophisticated clothing but I think it is some what outdated in the footwear and shorts. I was recently in London and Paris and while people wore nice clothing a lot of locals wore shorts and practically everyone was in tennis shoes. Wearing Tennis shoes and shorts might mark you as a tourist in a ritzy area but not in the main part of the city.

June 24, 2019 at 4:22 pm

That is valid for the young generation. Sadly, the tendency in Europe is to copy the Americans, so I’m not surprised to see they began wearing shorts and tennis shoes.

June 5, 2019 at 6:08 am

This article, while informative, is mostly a preconceived notion. A Parisian here (insert a wave). A friend forwarded a link to this article and asked whether I agree. I’m married to an american, living in the U.S. part-time, traveling for living, with family located all over Europe: Paris, London, Moscow, Prague, Oslo, Munich, Vienna. What I agree with: european men do prefer slim/tighter fit of both, tops and bottoms. Layers – yes, scarves – yes. Fit is everything. That being said, the style has relaxed IMMENSELY over the last few years. In fact, simple dresses with trainers (keds, skechers, converse) are very popular for casual outings. Even major theaters have relaxed their dress codes and i’ve seen lots and lots of locals wearing casual bottoms and slightly dressier tops for orchestra performances. I personally detest it as I am all about tailored clothing, heels and quality handbags, but comfort is taking over. The way I recognized americans without a fail is no longer by keds or skechers or crossbody handbags (the latter is now worn by just about everyone in every major city) but by plastic, unnecessary smiles. 20 years in the U.S. and it still perplexes me. In summary, european men dress more differently from their american counterparts than european vs american women. I do agree, quality over quantity is what sets us apart. And scarves 🙂

June 5, 2019 at 11:01 am

Thanks for your comment, Julie. Truly appreciated.

August 24, 2019 at 3:12 pm

A spaniard here currently living and working in Dublin. I am not sure if, perhaps, this targeted to a much older audience…? I am in my late 30s and wear mostly good quality leather cross body bags (so do all my colleagues and friends here in Ireland and back in Spain. Same in all european capitals that I travel to frequently for work: London, Berlin, Paris…). I also wear jeans most of the time and some times fashion sneakers. It is true that I prefer to wear a chelsea leather boot to a pair of runners, but seems to me that that the style here is way more relaxed than what this article suggests…

Shreya Saha

May 13, 2019 at 10:06 am

This is an informative post. I did not know that I have to think much before dressing up in Europe. But I like to know about the thoughts from someone who grew up in Europe. I loved the fashion for women and really want to have a Clarks shoe soon.

Kristy Sheridan

March 19, 2019 at 6:45 pm

Thank you for this helpful article! Hub and I are planning 2 weeks in Switzerland, Lake Como, and Provence this September, including stops in cities- Lucerne, Geneva, Nice, etc…. Planning on taking a basic, classic, wardrobe and I wanted to include a blazer. My favorite is lightweight navy wool gabardine from Ralph Lauren, with a simple crest on the lapel. Would this be considered too flashy? Thanks so much in advance for your advice!

March 20, 2019 at 11:46 am

No, that’s not too flashy. It’s just perfect. Have a safe trip.

November 8, 2018 at 1:04 am

Hello! my family is touring Europe in December. Any advice on the clothing during the winter period? Thank you!

November 8, 2018 at 11:08 am

Depending where in Europe you go, December may be very cold. It can get bitterly cold even in Rome and Paris, although you will most likely not encounter snow in these areas. I would recommend you take a good winter coat (it may be a peacoat) with you and some dark pants. Black jeans will work also. Take a few turtle necks (there may be strong winds) and a wool scarf. Don’t take a ski jacket if you want a smart, elegant look. Hope this helps.

February 16, 2019 at 6:22 am

We are going to Europe in October. I’m having a hard time finding comfort shoes for my husband that can be walked in all day but could be worn with slacks too. Is there anything you can refer? I clicked on the picture for the men’s shoe but they are not being sold on amazon.

February 17, 2019 at 3:01 pm

Hi Nihi, thanks for your comment. I updated the Amazon links for men’s shoes, so all pairs I have there are available now on Amazon. All these three brands make great walking shoes for both men and women.

October 8, 2018 at 11:12 pm

Super good in depth review. I have a mandatory study abroad for my degree in Bonn Germany and want to have some pretty good outfits I can wear to not feel like an outcast. I’ll look further into these!

September 14, 2018 at 1:06 am

I grew up in the US but visit Belgium for a few months every year. Clothing here is casual but elegant and not expensive! There are high-end shops but on the whole clothing is cheap here. For example, you can buy a nice, decent quality stripped basic shirt that is casual but elegant for maybe 10-25 euros.

I always feel a little inferior here. I mostly wear US brands like LL Bean and Lands’ End and that comes off more sporty than elegant. It’s kind of drab too compared to the clothing here. However, I have never been denied anything here due to my clothing, or anything else for that matter.

September 14, 2018 at 2:07 pm

I think you misread my statement about “being denied access in certain places because of the way you are dressed.” In most places you won’t be denied access, it would be horrible if they did that. However, there are certain places in EUrope (mostly high end restaurants) that require a certain attire. If you show up there dressed in jeans and a t-shirt they will not let you in.

August 4, 2018 at 1:48 pm

I live in Europe. I divide my time between Paris, Zagreb, and Prague although for work I’m frequently in Berlin and Bucharest also. Many of your points are spot on, but you could not be more wrong about sneakers. We wear them EVERWHERE. (Except for places like the opera and to church) The New Balance 574, for example, is a chic choice for women all over Europe. Merrill and Born?! I only see them on American travelers.

Now, the white, flashy American sneaker? That is not a fashionable choice in Europe, for sure. But cute, dark colored sneakers? You see them on all of the chic girls.

August 4, 2018 at 5:11 pm

Hi Elle, Thank you for taking time to comment on my post. I am European myself and travel to Europe every year. I am quite aware of the fact that the young generation there tends to follow the American trend and believes that wearing sneakers and ripped jeans everywhere is “cool.” However, that’s not the norm. At least not yet. It’s quite possible that in the next 30-40 years the classy European style of dressing will be replaced by a more sloppy one. For now though, people still dress nicer in Europe than in America.

July 16, 2018 at 3:44 pm

We’re leaving for Bavaria in six short weeks and I am very thankful I came across your article. You’ve provided useful information for both my husband and me (thank you!). I do have a question though – I’m 52 and love wearing jeans (not ripped). I planned to bring a dark wash blue and black skinny jean, but now I’m not so sure that’s a good idea. I had planned to dress them up with nice tops, booties & a jacket. But will I look like a fool? Do older (over 50) women wear jeans? Will my husband look dumb too?

July 16, 2018 at 8:40 pm

Hy Pollyanna, I’m glad you found my article of help. I actually mentioned the jeans somewhere in my post and even have a picture of a young woman wearing jeans and boots. I am actually older than you and I love wearing jeans.

Depending where you are in Europe, wearing jeans is not necessarily out of taste. Especially if you wear them with a nice pair of boots, or some dress shoes and a nice top. Besides, Munich is not exactly Paris or Milan. Germans have a little more relaxed style. Hope you’ll have a great time in Bavaria.

June 18, 2018 at 10:25 am

Thin soled shoes will not give you pain. The more “minimalist” your shoes are, the more comfortable they will be. Your feet will strengthen eventually, so you won’t need all that support and motion control. Thank me later.

June 18, 2018 at 11:06 am

I wish you were right, Nathan, but my experience proves differently. I love thin soles and delicate shoes, but unfortunately they are good just for show off, not for long walks on the European streets. If you talk to any podiatrist he will tell you the same thing: that shoes with cushion protect your feet. The pressure you put on your feet when you walk on high heels or very thin soles irritate the nerves that lead to the toes.This irritation triggers the thickening of the nerve tissue, though causing a “neuroma.” I’ve learned my lesson the hard way. After each trip to Europe I would return home and run to the podiatrist’s office for a cortisone shot in my feet. Despite his advice, the following year I would go back to my fancy thin-sole sandals. After a few years of stubbornness I ended up with neuroma surgeries on both feet.

May 3, 2018 at 8:17 am

Hi! I’ve been reading lots and lots of articles as of what to wear in Europe. I’m traveling soon to western European trips and I’ve been worried that if what I’m going to wear is frowned upon. I don’t own any long dresses or long skirts. So I was wondering if it’s okay to wear skirts then wear stockings or tights underneath it? We are visiting various religious sights, would they allow me in if I have a skirt on with tights covering my knees?

May 3, 2018 at 9:25 am

Absolutely. You can wear stockings or tights and skirts, no problem.

March 24, 2018 at 7:49 pm

We are traveling abroad this year for several weeks with our kids (ages 12 and 10). Could you offer some tips for them? My daughter is VERY sporty and not accustomed to dresses or frills. Would my son be ok in nicer linen shorts? To us that’s somewhat fancy but still comfortable.

March 25, 2018 at 7:02 pm

Hi Becky, I think 10 and 12 years old are still kids, so they would probably get by with less formal clothes than adults. However, if you plan to go to fancy restaurants or attend some cultural events, they should definitely dress appropriately (more elegant). For your daughter a white pair of pants with a nice top and some ballet flats would work great. For your son, knee length linen shorts may work all right during the day time, but not in the evening.I hope this helps.

Elaine Masters

February 25, 2018 at 7:35 pm

I spend so much more time packing when I go to Europe than any other destination! These are great tips that I wish more tourists, especially from the US, would pay attention to. It’s true as well that especially in Paris, no matter what I might wear, I’ll feel underdressed. Tant Pis! My motto is to dress to see and not be seen (necessarily.)

February 25, 2018 at 10:32 pm

Hahaha, I hear you, Elaine!

February 10, 2018 at 11:53 am

Hello, Anda! I discovered your post researching about what to wear in Europe in the spring. Your article is very informative. Thank you! May I pls. know the brand of those brown ankle length women’s boots you showed here? I’m currently on the hunt for a stylish, comfortable footwear. Thanks much!

February 10, 2018 at 11:59 am

Thank you for your comment, Ella. Those are Pikolinos. They are extremely soft and flexible. Excellent for long walks, yet very stylish.

Jo Americano

January 6, 2018 at 11:13 pm

I was going to spend a few hundred dollars to avoid being frowned upon by judgmental strangers (the double standard of accepting any cultural wear tourists may wear to america but having to change your own culture when you travel…) but then I realized I could just be myself and not care what other people think for free. And I won’t even have to tithe because my Apparently God doesn’t invite you into his house in Europe unless he’s impressed by the material wealth you flaunt on your feet!

July 11, 2018 at 8:37 am

Spoken like a true “Merkin” Ignorance is bliss as they say.

Thedollysmama

March 20, 2023 at 8:45 pm

Oh, Dolores, you need to google the definition of ‘merkin’. I think you meant ‘Murican’. A merkin is a ‘pubic wig’, very different thing entirely!

June 11, 2017 at 5:38 pm

Hi, what is brand and model of first shoe you posted under women section? Thanks!

June 11, 2017 at 6:12 pm

Those are Pikolinos, but I can’t see the model written anywhere. They are extremely comfortable and can be worn even in a colder season (like spring and fall) with a pair of socks.

February 9, 2017 at 2:31 pm

Very useful tips! I have the same impression that clothing in Europe is more expensive than it is in the States, even when it comes to the exact same brands and sales/outlets. But on the other hand, I believe, in Europe you could find more small local boutiques (some family-owned for generations) where one might buy smth that would really last. I´ve also bought a pair of random boots in Rome once and after years of wearing them they look better than some of the high-end worldwide known brands I have. And absolutely agree that in different European countries it might be harder/easier to fit in… I lived in Berlin and that one day you wear heels – you immediately look overdressed, while every time I come to Italy I feel like I don’t have enough clothes lol

Kind regards from Spain, Anna

February 9, 2017 at 2:40 pm

Thanks for your comment, Anna. If you live in Europe, you know better how easily it is to look underdressed in some cities. Overall though, no matter where you are in Europe, people look more put together and nicely dressed than in most parts of the USA.

January 19, 2017 at 5:19 pm

Awesome post! I had a quick question, do you know what kind of shoes the brown ones are (the big picture below the three smaller pictures of shoes for women)? Thanks so much! Alyson

January 19, 2017 at 10:52 pm

Those I Born, Alyson. Born makes extremely comfortable yet very stylish walking shoes. I strongly recommend this brand. Also, the Clarks are excellent for travel. Thanks for commenting on my post.

January 7, 2017 at 12:08 pm

I have a serious foot problem and must wear thick orthotics. They really do not fit into anything except extra depth tennis shoes. Any suggestions?

January 8, 2017 at 1:07 pm

I wear orthotics too, Ann. I don’t know how thick yours are, but mine are designed according to the shoes. I even wear orthotics in my high heel shoes (the ones I wear for only 2-3 hours when I go to a special event).

October 16, 2016 at 3:05 pm

December 27, 2016 at 4:10 am

Here is just a bit of my 2cents on the subject: “Keep leather, cashmere, denim, cotton and linen, but reconsider synthetics.” While this is quite true for Italian people, you would wondering stares in northern Europe. Synthetics are everywhere. Leather is nice, bit only when its cold – and norvegians dont freeze so easily. Thats why you can see mini skirts all years round with proper warm pants under them if needed. There is just one point where you are perfectly right: Europeans wear shorts and flip flops only on the beach, but not in the streets. And if we see a (mostly russian) tourist in bathing suit and naked chest – preferable wet from tip to toe – in a Thai shopping mall, we are near vomiting. And speaking of Thais… in the north you will see 80% wearing flip flop on the streets, not so in Bangkok. So Marta is right in saying you can’t throw all Europeans into one box. You must differentiate a lot. We have very distinct cultures here.

December 27, 2016 at 9:54 pm

My post is not an analysis of the European culture and its diversity, nor is it a generalization of the dress code in Europe. These are basic recommendations for those who travel to Europe and want to look nice and well put together. A guide for people who want to blend in rather than stand out as tourists. As someone who was born and raised in Europe and travels there every year, I’m pretty aware of the fact that many young Europeans slobber over looking like a Gringo and dress sloppy, but that doesn’t define Europe. As for your ‘2cents’, they don’t make much sense when you bring Asia into this conversation.

September 5, 2016 at 3:40 am

Thanks for your informative article. I’m kind of lost when it comes to dressing properly in a big city.

April 10, 2016 at 11:15 am

Great post! I swear by the scarf anytime I travel anywhere! They are so versatile! The struggle is real to find comfortable shoes to walk around a European city all day and also not look like a hobo though. Thanks for the great tips.

April 10, 2016 at 7:24 am

I was pretty gobsmacked to read this article. Living in Europe all I see is people wearing shorts, t shirts and jeans. Really our fashion is very similar to American fashion unless you’re in expensive hotels/eateries in Rome, Paris or Milan! The only time I would dress as you recommend is if I was going on a night out, out for a fancy dinner or to the theatre – and almost everyone I know would agree.

April 9, 2016 at 4:11 pm

Love this post so much, I love Europe and dressing up appropriately when travelling, nothing screams tourist like some t shirt and shorts with flipflops! A scarf or hat for those bad hair days are a must for me as well. I’m always looking for comfortable but stylish shoes and you have some neat options here!

April 9, 2016 at 4:00 pm

Being a European and travelling in Europe quite a lot… I read this post opening my eyes really widely. Some of the comments surprised me even more 🙂 At first I thought you might be talking about big fashion capital like Paris or Milan, where I haven’t been for quite a few years, but then when you mentioned Eastern Europe (where I live) I found it really, really strange. Come to think of it, I dress like a tourist in my own hometown, more – I can see other local people dressed like tourists.

The funny thing is that I actually quite often dress the way you recommend, but at the same time I dress the way you advise against and I can see I’m not any different from the people around me – it just depend what you do, where you work etc.

However, I’ve never been to the USA so unfortunately I cannot compare 🙂

April 10, 2016 at 12:08 am

I don’t know where in Europe you live, Monica, but I haven’t seen people in shorts and flip flops anywhere there (not even in the countryside.) From big metropolitan areas to small provincial towns, people in Europe dress nicely. That doesn’t mean that you are not going to see a pair of jeans here and there, but the overall impression you get when you travel to Europe is what I describe in my post. To have a better understanding of the comparison I’m making, you should probably come visit America.

April 10, 2016 at 1:47 am

When it is hot in summer I usually go outside Europe on my holiday so I’m not so sure about flip-flops and shorts 🙂 I would find beach flip-flops awfully uncomfortable in the city and shorts in the city are for teenage girls in my opinion 😀 Open toes, jeans and T-shirts? They’re everywhere. But I guess you’re right, I should probably go visit the USA to understand it better 🙂 I live in Poznań (Poland) – it’s a city right in the middle between Berlin and Warsaw. But as I say, I never think that I should wear different clothes in other places – it only depends on the weather and what I’m going to do. However, I guess tourists are excused when putting comfort over elegance even because they walk more and do different things.

April 10, 2016 at 2:18 pm

Monica, how you choose to dress when you travel is up to you. If you want to dress smart and elegant, that’s considered a plus in Europe (unlike in America where nobody cares). This post was meant as a tool for those who want to look and feel good when they visit Europe.

April 10, 2016 at 4:40 am

Dear Monica, I’m from Central (in my opinion) Europe (Poland) and I think the point here is other style of jeans e.g. We dress all those things but in other style. We don’t dress baggy unless we meant to dress “oversize”.

April 9, 2016 at 12:34 pm

Having visited Europe a number of times now, the differences in the fashion between guys from the US and guys from EU are strikingly different in many ways. I’m always a shorts guy back in the states (I’m from Texas, it’s a necessity!), but always leave them behind when traveling abroad.

April 10, 2016 at 12:20 am

There is nothing wrong with your Texan cloths, Justin. In fact I love that style, but when you travel you want to blend in, not be spotted as a tourist.

April 6, 2016 at 7:59 pm

This is such a useful post! When I was first traveling in my early 20s, I used to not care about how I dress. I thought it was rather superficial. But then I landed in Tokyo for the first time —- and boy, did I feel so insecure! Even though I thought I dressed up pretty well in a jeans and a North Face jacket (cringe), I felt like such a country bumpkin amidst all the fashionable Tokyo men and women.

Good thing when I went to Europe for the first time I have already developed a bit of class. Dressing well and appropriately is not just about caring what people think — it does enhance the experience, and as you pointed out, you get good service and a good table. It also shows that you respect the culture, especially when you try to go to certain establishments like theatre.

Definitely learned a lot from this post and will keep it handy for when I’m next heading to Europe. 🙂

April 7, 2016 at 1:50 am

Thank you, Liz. I’m glad if I could bring anything new to the table.

Suze - Luxury Columnist

April 3, 2016 at 2:54 pm

You make such a good point about scarves, Anda – I’m here in Andalusia at the moment and it’s quite chilly in the morning and evening, I wish I’d brought more of them!

April 3, 2016 at 11:30 pm

I don’t think you can have too many scarves when you travel, Suze.

Lyn @thetravellinglindfields

April 3, 2016 at 2:22 pm

Striking a balance between comfort and elegance is a topic close to my heart. We like to be active when we travel, even if that just means walking huge distances rather than hoping in and out of taxis. Sometimes it is hard to look reasonable without risking being too hot, too cold or having aching feet. It always surprises me how casually Americans dress for dinner (not at flash restaurants but just about everywhere else) but I do find the casual styles great for long days on the tourist trail. We have not been to Europe for quite a few years but your comments definitely resonate with memories of our last trip to Buenos Aires when I think I looked like a bag lady most of the time.

April 3, 2016 at 11:39 pm

The older I get, the more comfortable I want to feel when I travel Lyn. However,you can feel comfy in nice cloths as well as in sloppy one and believe me, nothing feels so good as looking good.

Ruth - Tanama Tales

April 2, 2016 at 10:24 am

I made a lot of mistakes when I visited Europe as a college student. My attire consisted of jeans, t-shirts and sneakers. But, the thing is that nobody instructed me on how to dress properly in this area of the world (and the Internet was in its infancy during those years). Now, I usually take dresses, long pants and nice blouses. And, I take scarfs too since they can change the appearance of an outfit in one second. My biggest headache is shoes. I usually have problems finding a pair that is comfy but nice looking at the same time.

April 3, 2016 at 11:51 pm

Yea, I agree with you, Ruth. Nice and comfortable shoes are hard to find and they are a must when you travel.

April 2, 2016 at 6:15 am

This is the best packing post I’ve seen, Anda. I even showed it to my husband, who is quite looking forward to the day that he needs to buy dressier clothes for a trip to Europe. When I traveled to Europe in my 20s, I did okish because I wore lots of darks and neutrals, but I did wear jeans. I remember people laughing at my countrymen who wore spring colors in winter. Now, living in the tropics, I dress like a bum, but I hope to have some dress-up time in a cooler climate in the future.

April 4, 2016 at 12:01 am

You probably miss a little dressing time if you live at the tropics, Karen. I remember enjoying the tropics but looking forward to going back home where I can dress up nicely.

Connie Reed

April 1, 2016 at 7:49 pm

This is great information, Anda. My first trip to Europe was to my daughter’s wedding in Paris about twelve years ago. She told me then not to bring sneakers or bluejeans. I see that one of your photos includes bluejeans. Are jeans acceptable now?

April 1, 2016 at 10:55 pm

The photo with jeans was used to illustrate what NOT to wear in Europe, Connie.

April 10, 2016 at 2:44 am

I am European, I used to live in Poland, Germany and the UK, currently in Switzerland. I visited almost all countries in Europe. And as long as I can agree to many advices above, the blue jeans advice is a lie, sorry. Everyone wears blue jeans here. No, not to Opera or fancy restaurant or client-focused work, but anything then this – blue jeans is a daily outlook and nobody will look touristy just because of wearing jeans. This will just look normal and not fancy/exclusive.

April 10, 2016 at 2:12 pm

I think you didn’t understand what you were reading. Nowhere in this post did I say that jeans are inappropriate in Europe. Shorts, T-shirts, sweat pants, baggy cloths, sneakers, converse and flip-flopsre the only NO-NO items listed here.

January 30, 2017 at 11:28 am

I think she was referring to the photo included with the scarves section…

April 10, 2016 at 4:35 am

Dear Connie, I am European so I can explain you the difference: in Europe, of course, we dress jeans almost daily but they look way different than a photo in this post. Our jeans are usually one-colored (so no brighter parts), dark (dark blue, black, dark grey), even if they’re in light colors they usually white or light grey, they have to fit (but don’t have to be tight, they just cannot be baggy). So they are almost boarding elegance. And you have to consider kind of event: if it’s really chic restaurant, you should consider dress (not too short) or pants other than jeans. If it’s less chic (let say: typical evening with friends) but still not a fastfood or ‘milkbar’ it’s enough to dress those jeans a little bit up: nice blouse and jacket or blazer, no sporty shoes, definately no flip-flops. In other cases we dress those jeanse with a pair of (really clean) pair converse, some t-shirt (also well-fitted, not baggy). This is kind of rule: we don’t wear baggy if we don’t mean to wear “oversize”.

Rhonda Albom

April 1, 2016 at 4:11 pm

This is great, and the complete opposite of how I am packing for our upcoming 45 day America adventure. I was very glad to read that America is still about comfort. My goal, although yet to be determined if I will succeed, is all carry on. A mix of smart-casual and comfort, and everything can be layered. Good thing I am not headed to Europe right now – of course I would be packing differently.

April 1, 2016 at 11:16 pm

Truth is Rhonda that no matter how much I like to dress up for Europe, I feel way more comfortable when I am in the States. Here nobody judges you too harsh for wearing comfy clothes.

April 1, 2016 at 10:46 am

Anda, this is one of the most informative and useful posts I have seen in a while and I especially appreciate that it was written from the perspective of one who grew up in Europe. While I don’t mind being an American, I prefer to blend into the surroundings rather than wear something that immediately brands me as one and screams “TOURIST!”

Shoes are my biggest issue; it’s frustratingly difficult to find comfy walking shoes that fit my small, narrow feet. I’m definitely going to have to search out Born; I’ve not tried them yet.

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Best Travel Clothes For Europe In Spring

by Melissa Giroux | Last updated Oct 16, 2023 | Europe , Travel Gear , Travel Tips

Being such a vast continent, the climate in Europe varies drastically, depending on where you go.

In addition, traveling in the shoulder season of spring makes the weather in Europe even more unpredictable. 

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So, if you’re planning an epic Europe trip in spring, it’s only natural to feel a bit confused about what clothes to take with you.

Luckily, thanks to our experience traveling in Europe, we know the best way to dress in all seasons.

So before you start packing your backpacking essentials for Europe , read our guide on the best travel clothes for Europe in spring .

What To Pack For Europe In Spring

When deciding what to pack for Europe in spring, think about what countries you are visiting before planning your outfits.

It’s no secret that spring can be winter-like in some parts of the continent, like Sweden, Scotland, and Poland.

In contrast, in the Mediterranean areas of Spain and Greece, Spring has a warm, summer feel.

If you’re only visiting one country, the packing will be a much easier process than if you’re backpacking across the continent.

Even so, as spring in Europe is so changeable, it’s also best to pack for multiple seasons regardless.

Of course, if you’re traveling with a backpack or small suitcase, you can’t take your entire wardrobe.

So how do you ensure you’re covered for the varying climates while still traveling light? 

The best way we’ve found to do this is by taking multiple layers.

Having a mix of short sleeve t-shirts, long-sleeve tops, jumpers, and a good jacket or two will allow you to adjust to the unexpected weather changes.

So let’s break down exactly what layers you’ll need when packing so that you can know exactly what to wear in Europe during spring.

Wondering Where To Buy Your Clothes For Traveling Europe?

We love how convenient Amazon is. We understand that buying clothes online is not always easy.

Our packing list will still help you figure out what to pack for Europe.

T-shirts & Vest Tops

Short-sleeve tops are a base layer that you’ll be wearing every day during your trip. So pack plenty of t-shirts, vest tops, and tank tops.

You’ll find spring days in Europe often start chilly and then warm up considerably throughout the day.

So, if you’re out hiking or walking around, you might find you get warm enough to take off your outer and mid-layers.

Hoodies & Sweaters

Hoodies, sweaters, jumpers, and cardigans make warm mid-layers, offering you insulation against the cold winds.

Even if it seems like a warm day, we recommend taking a hoodie and sweater with you wherever you go.

As spring is such a temperamental season in Europe, you just never know when the temperature will drop.

During the day, you may be able to interchange jumpers and jackets as your outer layer. Still, in the evenings, you might find you need both layers.

No matter where you go in Europe in the spring, don’t forget to pack a jacket. Unless you’re heading to a nordic country like Denmark, Norway, or Sweden, you probably won’t need a super thick winter coat.

However, a thin, lightweight jacket with some insulation will undoubtedly come in useful.

A windproof and water-resistant jacket like this MAGCOMSEN Men’s Hooded Windbreaker Jacket is ideal, as it gives you total protection from the elements. It’s also lightweight and quick-drying.

Note that if you’re traveling around only one European country, the climate can differ significantly from the north to the south.

Spain and Italy are two examples, as the northern regions remain cold during the spring.

However, the southern areas are starting to feel summer-like. So, you may not need a jacket for your entire trip, but you will most likely need it for part of it. 

Rain Jacket

If your jacket or coat is not waterproof, you’ll need to bring a rain jacket too. Of course, certain countries in Europe have a higher chance of rainfall in spring than others.

However, as many rain jackets are thin, lightweight, and can be packed down to a small size, there’s no reason not to include one when packing your travel outfits for Europe.

For example, this 33,000ft Packable Shell Rain Jacket is 5000mm waterproof with fully sealed and welded seams to keep water out.

It’s so easy to fold down and pack in the included carrying pouch, which you can keep in your daypack or hang from the outside of it.

Long pants are the most common lower body apparel in Europe during the spring, so ensure you pack plenty of these.

Include a mix of jeans for city exploring, hiking or sports pants for outdoor activities, and a couple of smart/casual trousers. 

For women, leggings are also one of the best travel clothes for Europe in spring.

Or, if you’re traveling in colder countries, take a couple of thermal leggings like these Conceited Premium Women’s Fleece Lined Leggings . 

If you’re visiting a Mediterranean country like Greece , Malta, or Cyprus, expect warmer temperatures than elsewhere in Europe. In that case, pack a couple of pairs of shorts. 

Even if it doesn’t seem hot in the morning, the temperature can quickly rise around midday. So keep some shorts in your daypack that you can change into if needed. 

Scarf & Hat 

If you’re traveling in Northern or Eastern Europe, a scarf and hat are necessary for spring. This is because the winds here are still icy, so it’s essential to protect your neck and ears.

Even if you’re visiting the UK, Ireland, France, or Germany, we still recommend a scarf, but you can choose a thin fashion shawl instead of a thick winter one.

Even if the temperature is low, springtime in Europe brings increased sunshine and daylight hours. Therefore, even if it’s not beach weather, you can still expect bright, sunny days, so sunglasses are essential. 

Footwear is another important consideration when choosing travel clothes for Europe in spring. Again, the countries you’re visiting will determine the footwear you’ll need.

Still, in general, we suggest a good-quality pair of ankle boots that will offer you comfort and warmth when exploring cities and sights.

Choose a low heel for comfort and opt for waterproof material to keep you dry in the unexpected April showers.

We love these SOREL Chelsea Rain Boots for women, which have rubber sole traction and a supportive EVA footbed.

Don’t forget your favorite sneakers or running shoes for long walks and hikes.

And if you’re heading to the Mediterranean and planning a beach day or two, pack a pair of flip flops or sandals. 

Finally, an additional item that women may want to take to Europe in Spring is a couple of long dresses.

One or two chic dresses are enough to give you something nice to wear whenever you go out to a nice restaurant and bar. 

As the nights are still chilly in most parts of Europe, we suggest avoiding short, strappy summer dresses.

Instead, opt for a midi or maxi dress for more coverage. This Boho Floral A-Line Flared Midi Dress by Floerns is ideal.

Pair it with boots rather than sandals or heels, and if you’re traveling to a chilly part of Europe, you’ll need some warm tights too.

Europe Travel Outfit Ideas For Spring

Now you know the type of layers you’ll need on your upcoming trip, it’s time to plan some stylish outfits.

Here are our top Europe spring outfit ideas for men and women.

Below, you’ll find our outfit ideas for men during European spring.

City Explorer

When you’re walking around a new European city, you want to look stylish, feel comfortable, and blend in with the locals.

Create this look with these comfortable and durable Rockport Waterproof Storm Surge Toe Boots.

They feature an Adidas adiPRENE shock-absorbing heel cushioning so you can walk around all day without getting sore feet.

Pair them with these Match Straight Tapered Jogger Trousers and Sailwind Henley Long Sleeve T-Shirt .

Layer with this Esobo Cotton V Neck Sweater and this Sandbank Softshell Flight Bomber Jacket .

It not only looks fashionable but it’s windproof, too. However, it won’t keep you dry in the rain so don’t forget your rain jacket!

Outdoor Adventurer

Europe is an adventurer’s playground, from hiking to mountain biking to canyoning. Whatever activity you choose, stay dry and warm with this comfy yet functional outfit.

Start with top-quality waterproof boots like the NORTIV 8 Men’s Ankle High Hiking Boots . They feature shock-absorbent cushioned insoles, lightweight EVA midsoles, and high-quality rubber soles. 

Pair them with these TACVASEN Quick Dry Hiking Pants , made from a breathable, lightweight, and fast-drying fabric.

Up top, choose the Under Armour Tactical Tech T-Shirt as your base layer and the CRYSULLY Men’s Tactical Pullover as your mid-layer. 

Finally, stay dry with the Columbia Men’s Watertight Ii Jacket with waterproof and breathable technology and an adjustable storm hood with an abrasion-resistant chin guard.

It’s also super lightweight and can be packed down to the size of a pocket.

Sleek Traveler

A night out in an exciting new destination calls for a stylish and sleek look.

Many of our favorite evening outfits for Europe involve these Polar Fox Brooke Lace-up Chukka Boots , made from hand-crafted, durable vegan leather.

Pair them with these Plaid&Plain Men’s Slim-Fit Dress Pants and the Calvin Klein Liquid Touch Polo Shirt , made from a soft, durable, and lightweight cotton fabric.

Add a layer of warmth with this Goodthreads Merino Wool V-Neck Sweater and this URBANFIND Slim Fit Bomber Jacket . 

Finally, if you’re in a colder European country, add this stylish Marino Avenue Knit Striped Scarf in a color that compliments your outfit. 

Below, you’ll find our outfit ideas for women during European spring.

Whether you’re admiring the ancient monuments of Athens or shopping in Milan, you won’t want to stand out as another classic tourist.

So pair these pretty MaxMuxun Faux Suede Flat Ankle Boots with these comfy but elegant GRACE KARIN High Waist Pencil Pants . 

Next up, pair this SheIn Keyhole Back Blouse in a light color like beige with the MEROKEETY Waffle Knit Batwing Cardigan .

Then, stay warm and dry no matter the weather with the SaphiRose Long Hooded Rain Jacket .

This look gives the perfect balance between smart and casual, so you can go straight from sightseeing to bar hopping without having to change your outfit. 

Wear this cozy and comfortable outfit if you’re exploring the English countryside, hiking in the Alps , or going for a coastal walk in Portugal.

First, give your feet the ultimate protection with these Columbia Newton Ridge Plus Waterproof Amped Hiking Shoes . Then keep your legs warm with these OUGES Women’s High Waist Yoga Pants .

They are designed for sports and outdoor activities and are made from a super soft moisture-wicking material.

Up top, start with this C9 Champion Soft-Tech Tee , made with comfortable and breathable fabric. Then, layer it up with the TBMPOY UPF 50+ Hoodie .

The lightweight, moisture-wicking fabric will prevent you from overheating, and the sun protection qualities will prevent any sunburn. 

Finally, stay dry with the Diamond Candy Lightweight Hooded Hiking Coat . The soft and lightweight shell is windproof and waterproof, and the adjustable cuffs help you retain warmth if the temperature drops. 

Chic Traveler 

If you’re checking out the city’s most hip bar, fine dining restaurant, or iconic theatre, do it with style and elegance.

Pair this MEROKEETY Striped Knee Length Swing Midi Dress with these Tish Lucia ​​Pointed Toe Ankle Boots .

Then, stay warm with this Allegra K Faux Suede Biker Moto Jacket and this gorgeous MaaMgic Cashmere Feel Pashmina Shawl .

Final Thoughts On Travel Clothes For European Spring

We hope this guide has given you a better understanding of what to pack for Europe in spring.

As the climate varies throughout the continent, we strongly recommend researching the usual spring weather in each destination.

Moreover, always pack for unexpected weather when traveling during the shoulder season!

Need help with clothing? Read one of the following blog posts:

• What to wear camping
• What to wear kayaking in spring
• What to wear kayaking in summer
• Packing for Europe in winter
• Packing for Europe in fall
• Packing for Europe in summer

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What to Pack for Europe: Clothing, Accessories, and Shoes to Bring on Your Next Trip

By Kasia Dietz

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When deciding what to pack for Europe , whether it’s a short stay or a longer sojourn, there are a few things to keep in mind: You want to make sure your travel essentials are versatile, comfortable, and destination appropriate, keeping in mind the cityscape and climate you're headed to. Bonus points if you can make your stylish gear sustainable by wearing clothing and accessories made using recycled or even remnant fabrics. With those goals in mind, we’ve put together some wardrobe essentials and outfit inspiration for a few of our favorite European locales, from Paris and Lisbon to a river cruise. Scroll down to find pieces that suit your style, or jump straight to an upcoming destination.

European river cruise

England’s bustling capital city of London can feel more like a cluster of villages than a grand metropolis. Whether walking around central London from Soho to Chelsea or hopping on a double-decker bus to explore neighborhoods further afield, comfort is key, as navigating this immense city can take time. Boots or sneakers are favorable to heels, paired with structured looks that will take you from day to night. With frequent gray skies, a stylish trench is always a good idea.

Where to stay: The Best Hotels in London Right Now  

A cosmopolitan city dating back to the 11th century, Copenhagen unfolds like a vivid storybook. Its brightly hued harbor-front buildings nestled among bohemian and upmarket neighborhoods are brimming with buzzing cafes, art galleries, and boutiques. Rent a bike or take a leisurely stroll around this easily navigable city, also traversable by a system of metros and bus routes. A mostly mild climate where rain is no stranger, it is good practice to keep an umbrella tucked in your bag. Pack stylish sneakers along with contemporary minimalist separates and you’ll fit right in.

Where to stay: The Best Hotels in Copenhagen

Join what sometimes feels like a catwalk when you stroll the cobbled streets leading from Paris ’s trendy Marais on the Right Bank to the historic haunts of Saint-Germain’s Left Bank. Regardless of the neighborhood, the fashion capital seamlessly combines the latest trends with timeless elegance. Blend in with the Parisians by following a casual chic dress code heavy in understated tones. Even though the city is best explored by foot or via the public bike system, leave the athleisure at home, and allow vibrant accessories to take the spotlight.

Where to stay: The Best Hotels in Paris

When visiting the Italian art history mecca of Rome , prepare to spend mostly sunny days captivated by centuries-old sites including the Colosseum, the Pantheon, and the famous Villa Borghese Gardens , just to name a few. Casual but conservative attire is a safe bet, given the Vatican and the many basilicas dotting the city don’t allow shorts, miniskirts, or sleeveless tops. Comfortable shoes are key, and a light jacket will prove both fashionable and handy. Romans love color, so don’t be afraid to spice up your wardrobe with a flashy bag or scarf .

Where to stay: The Best Hotels in Rome

With an idyllic position along the Atlantic Coast, Lisbon makes for an enviable city and beach-hopping destination. Whatever the season, prepare for sunny days with shades and maybe even a sun hat . Whether traveling by foot or tram, you’ll want to wear your most comfortable shoes while exploring the hilly district of Bairro Alto or the narrow maze of streets in the Alfama. A polished pair of jeans with a button-down or a flattering wrap dress melds in with the casual, understated local style.

Where to stay: The Best Hotels in Lisbon

No matter where you stop along your itinerary, a European river cruise will include exhilarating days in centuries-old villages (think Avignon to Lyon along France’s Rhône River) followed by entertaining evenings beneath starry skies. To live your most comfortably elegant sailing life, pack dresses, jumpsuits , slip-on shoes , and accessories that can work both on land and on the water. With access to a pool and maybe even a lake, pack swimming gear and a kimono-style duster that can double as a robe. Don’t forget a scarf to dress up an evening look and keep you warm on breezy nights out on the deck.

Where to stay: How to Choose the Right European River Cruise for You

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The Ultimate Packing List for Europe: Spring Edition (+ What to Wear)

If there’s one thing we’ve learned about putting together the perfect packing list for Europe in spring, it’s to always expect it to be both colder and rainier than you hope for… especially if, like us, you hail from a climate where summer weather starts sneaking into the calendar as early as March or April.

It’s not all bad news, though–March, April, and May are wonderful months to travel in Europe!

Delectable farmer’s markets, adorable small towns decked out for Easter, coastlines that are slowly waking up from their winter hiatus and aren’t crowded yet, and blooming flowers everywhere you look are just a few of the fun things to see during spring in Europe!

And, after many springs spent hopping around the continent, we have plenty of ideas on how to put together the perfect spring packing list for Europe (many of which come from learning from our mistakes).

We’ve rounded up everything you need to pack for Europe in the spring here–plus some advice on what to wear.

Table of Contents

How to Use This Packing List for Europe in Spring

The absolute essentials for visiting europe in spring, travel gear you should definitely pack for europe this spring, packing list for europe: spring wardrobe for women, packing list for europe: spring wardrobe for men, other travel gear for your europe packing list for spring.

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While we talk mostly in general terms about packing for spring in Europe here, it’s of course important to remember that the continent has a wide variety of landscapes and weather patterns to offer!

Spring in the south of Europe is a totally different temperature than more northern parts of Europe, and the best things to wear in Scotland in March will of course be wildly different than what to wear in Sicily in May.

This packing list is designed to cover packing for Europe in March, April, and May, with an emphasis on visiting central and southern Europe.

Think strolling the streets of Paris, visiting the castles of Germany, or eating your way through Rome –that’s what this guide to what to wear in Europe in spring is designed for.

You will be prepared for spring showers and cold snaps, as well as bright sunny spring days.

Of course, always be sure to carefully check the weather in the destinations you’re planning to visit as your trip gets closer, but this spring packing list for Europe will provide a great jumping-off point for deciding what to bring (and what to leave behind).

All of the photos of Jeremy and me in this blog post were taken throughout Europe in March, April, or May–and as you can see, that has called for everything from peacoats to sundresses depending on the trip!

(Planning a trip to Europe in a different season? We also have packing lists for visiting Europe in the summer , fall , and winter !)

Passport — If you’re traveling internationally, your passport is an absolute must: there’s no point in packing for Europe in the spring without it!

Travel Insurance — No one like to think about the possibility of canceled or interrupted trips, let alone accidents on the road.

Anything can happen while traveling, though–and that’s where travel insurance can help.

Check travel insurance policy inclusions and prices with Safety Wing  for your trip here.

Visa (If Needed)  — Though 26 countries in Europe are part of the Schengen Zone that allows many nationalities (including US citizens, Canadians, and Australians) to enter and travel freely between their countries for 90 days for tourism, that still leaves around half of Europe’s countries that are  not  part of this agreement.

Regardless of where you are from, always double-check entrance requirements before showing up at the airport to fly to any European country (or any country at all that isn’t your own, for that matter).

Money  — We recommend bringing two credit cards (one to use, and one to keep as a backup), and two debit cards. Ideally, bring cards with no foreign transaction fees.

We’ve never felt it necessary to obtain currency before arriving (we just withdraw from an ATM when we get there), but you can purchase most currencies in your home country if it makes you feel more comfortable.

Keep in mind that not all countries in Europe are on the Euro, so be sure to double-check what currency you’ll need based on your itinerary!

International Driving Permit — If you are visiting Europe this spring from outside the EU and plan to rent a car, you may need an International Driving Permit to do so!

Italy is particularly well-known for enforcing this requirement.

Be sure to check the rental requirements in any country that you plan to drive in before you arrive!

Camera — We use a Sony a7R III  and absolutely  adore  it, but whatever camera you’re comfortable with works–just make sure you have something with you to preserve your memories!

Be sure to check the requirements for the particular countries you visit–the United Kingdom, for example, is well-known for using different plugs than most of the continent.

Apple Air Tags — Air Tags are a relatively new addition to our Europe packing list, but we’ve absolutely loved having the extra security when checking out luggage! They’ll be coming with us from now on.

They’re incredibly handy and we recommend adding one to your packing list for Europe this spring.

We’ve been carrying ours for years and it still comes in handy constantly and is holding up perfectly!

Comfortable Day Bag — We currently use  Pacsafe’s sleek anti-theft backpack  and love it, but if you don’t want to shell out the cash for this trip, that’s totally understandable.

Just aim for something comfortable to wear, not flashy, and medium-sized–we used a  Northface Jester backpack  for years and loved it as well.

An umbrella is a must-have on a spring trip to Europe, and by buying a dedicated travel umbrella before you leave, you’ll end up with a much higher quality umbrella than if you buy one from a street vendor once it starts pouring.

Student ID  — If you’re a student, you’ll be entitled to lots of discounts on museums and attractions throughout Europe.

Be sure to add it to your packing list for Europe (but do keep in mind that some student discounts are only available to travelers studying in the EU–double-check before counting on the discounts!).

Cell Phone  — We spent more than a year traveling without working cell phones, just relying on wifi… and while that’s completely fine, we would never go back

Consider purchasing an international plan for your cell phone (most carriers offer them), or, if you have an unlocked phone, you can just buy a local SIM card once you land in Europe.

You can also buy EU SIM cards online before you go, though it’s not strictly necessary!

You’ll want to structure your personal wardrobe for traveling in Europe based on where you’re going, of course.

A glamorous trip to Rome calls for different clothes than hiking in Iceland or soaking up the first rays of sun in Greece–but if you’re looking for a great all-in-one spring packing list for Europe, this is it!

Sprin g in Europe is a really special time, places that close down for winter start opening up and preparing for the summer season and the weather starts to have more warm sunny days than cooler.

These picks reflect my personal favorite things to wear in Europe in the spring.

I love wearing dresses in Europe in the spring (and year-round, frankly)!

They’re easy to pack, easy to wear, look great just about anywhere you go, and manage to look pulled together while only requiring one piece of clothing.

When it is a little colder you can add tights and a jacket , layers are key in spring in Europe!

Dresses like this and this are generally what you’ll find me in when traveling through Europe in the spring. Be sure to bring at least one or two maxi dresses ( I love this one , for example), which fulfill the double purpose of being extremely photogenic while allowing you to visit religious sites like churches and mosques without issue.

Simple blouses like this are perfect for most places in the fall in Europe.

Be sure to also bring a sweater or two along–thinner ones are easier to pack and layer, so keep that in mind when shopping. Something like this is a great option.

A Europe packing list for spring absolutely requires a pair of jeans–I’m obsessed with this pair and had them for years, but am branching out with straight-legged jeans now after a decade of skinny jeans.

If it’s not quite warm enough for shorts so jeans are a perfect low-maintenance polished option.

If you prefer wearing pants, you might also like to bring an additional pair of jeans–black ones like these are a great way to mix things up.

If you are like me and prefer to wear dresses and skirts more often than not, a cute skirt like this layered with tights is a fashionable and comfortable choice for your Europe spring packing list.

It also provides you with options if it is warmer, then you can forgo the tights.

Bathing Suits

Depending on if you’re planning to visit some warmer beach destinations, I’d pack 2-3 bathing suits for visiting Europe in the spring. I love choices like this and this .

If you’re planning on trying out any active water activities like snorkeling or scuba diving, consider packing at least one one-piece suit , too.

The absolute most important rule when determining what shoes to put on your packing list for Europe this spring is making sure that they’re comfortable to walk in!

I’ve been wearing these white sneakers in Europe during the spring lately and love them, and this pair is another longtime favorite of mine.

Boat shoes are also a great option, and Converse are popular with backpackers and travelers along the tourist trail.

You might also prefer to bring a pair of boots, evenings can still be cold so you will be thankful for something drier and warmer than sneakers! Something like this is perfect.

Spring in Europe is the optimal time to plan for layers.

We once visited the Amalfi Coast and Cinque Terre during an unseasonably cold and rainy May… and we were so glad we had brought layers!

A light jacket like this is also a great option paired with an umbrella in your bag.

If you’re heading to outdoor-focused, more rainy places like Ireland or Scotland, you’ll also want to pack a rain jacket .

Accessories

Sunglasses are essential for traveling in Europe during the spring, that hazy spring sun can be strong!

You can either purchase them ahead of time or plan on picking them up as souvenirs.

Cheap sunglasses are sold on just about every corner in Europe, and designer sunglasses from European brands are generally far cheaper within the EU (I once paid under 200 Euro for a pair of Valentino glasses listed on Saks’ website for $400).

Scarves are also great for having handy if it gets chilly and to layer over a light jacket.

Fitted, casual shirts like this and light sweaters like this are both great options for men when packing for Europe in the spring.

Casual slacks or chinos like these are a versatile and easy option for your spring in Europe packing list.

We recommend bringing at least one pair of fitted jeans like these  as well.

Jeremy tends to opt for light, casual shoes like these during spring in Europe–whatever you pack, just make sure that they’re well broken in and easy to walk in for hours before adding them to your spring packing list for Europe!

Subtle boots like these or classic shoes like these are both good options.

Bathing Suit

If you’re planning on hitting warmer beach destinations in Europe this spring, make sure to bring one or two bathing suits along with you. Suits like this work perfectly.

Depending on the weather for your trip to Europe, you may not need a heavy jacket at all when visiting Europe in the spring.

Jeremy is comfortable in this jacket all the way through most of March, April, and May in Europe , give or take additional layers.

I use them on all boats and the occasional bus, and if things get really bad, take some Non-Drowsy Dramamine as well.

Trust me–you don’t want to miss out on the joys of boating around the Mediterranean due to seasickness!

True, it’s a bit of a pain to carry and not advised in busy areas, but the memories are priceless and the photos you end up with are generally  so  much better than the ones you get by asking a stranger to snap a photo for you.

Money Belt  — This is up to you: we no longer use one, but if you’re more comfortable having your passports on your person while exploring Europe this spring, you can consider bringing one.

Basic Medication  — Some people prefer to buy medication for basic headaches, fevers, and stomach aches as needed, but who wants to deal with language barriers when they’re sick?

We’ve never regretted adding our own over-the-counter meds to our Europe packing list.

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

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The 7 Best Travel Dresses for Europe

Caroline Morse Teel

Caroline Morse Teel is the Executive Editor for SmarterTravel Media. Caroline has a passion for adventure travel and has hiked to the top of Mt. Kilimanjaro and the bottom of the Grand Canyon in pursuit of a good story. Follow her around the world on Instagram @TravelWithCaroline .

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There’s something about Europe that makes you want to step up your travel wardrobe game. A dress is the easiest way to do so—a good one can instantly create a one-piece outfit, it doesn’t take up much space in your suitcase, and it’s easy to transition from day to night.

Since no one wants to spend their European vacation stuck in their room steaming clothing, look for fabrics that resist wrinkles (and odors, so that you can get multiple wears out of one dress).

These are the best travel-friendly dresses to pack for Europe.

Carve Designs Lexi Dress

A mid-weight dress with long sleeves, like the Lexi Dress by Carve Designs , is perfect for sun protection or cooler nights. Made from 100 percent organic cotton, the Lexi Dress is breathable and comfortable no matter if you’re walking all day or sitting on a plane.

Details like a slight boat neck and small side slits add extra style to the dress, and the style comes in a variety of eye-catching colors that help set this dress apart. 

Toad & Co Cue Wrap Short Sleeve Dress

Wrap dresses are fashionable but a terrible idea on a windy day. Get all the style of a wrap dress (with the comfort of a low-maintenance t-shirt dress) with Toad & Co’s Cue Wrap Dress . 

The dress features a faux wrap design and a self-tie belt that gives you the option for a custom fit. Made from an organic cotton and Tencel Lyocell blend fabric, the Cue dress offers the perfect amount of stretch and structure. 

Europe Travel Scams Every Tourist Needs to Know

Coolibar Tierra Tank Dress

Summers in Europe can be extremely hot, so if you’re spending the day outside, make sure you’re protecting yourself from the sun. There’s no more stylish way to get your UPF protection than with Coolibar’s Tierra Tank Dress .

Made from a special soft and stretchy knit fabric, this dress blocks up to 98 percent of UVA/UVB rays. 

Columbia Plus Size Freezer III Dress

Air conditioning may be hard to find in Europe, but you can still stay cool in Columbia’s Freezer III Dress . The dress utilizes Columbia’s trademarked Omni-Freeze technology, which helps lower skin surface temperature when it gets wet, keeping you from overheating when you start sweating.

It’s available in a wide range of sizes, including plus sizes up to 3X, so all travelers can wear this dress.  

Carve Designs Lyla Dress

Pack a versatile dress that will work on the beach or a bike ride, like Carve Design’s Lyla Dress . Made from recycled plastic bottles, this dress is quick-drying and resists wrinkles. A built-in shelf bra means there’s one less thing for you to have to pack.

The lightweight material is super stretchy and quick-drying, so this dress will still look good even after a day of exploration.

Toad & Co Sunkissed Maxi Dress

Toad & Co’s Eco Kohilo fabric is simply magical. Made from mostly recycled polyester, it’s easy on the environment—and easy to pack since it folds down small and is wrinkle-proof (no matter how tightly you rolled it up). Find it in the Sunkissed Maxi Dress , which is ultra-lightweight, yet offers plenty of coverage (plus UPF 40 sun protection).

Two on-seam hand pockets make this dress perfect for travel, giving you a discreet place to stash things like your phone or keys. 

The Best Sun-Protective Clothing for Travel

Zella Departure Travel Dress

Keep things simple with a classic little black dress that will look at home wherever you go. Zella’s version, the Departure Travel Dress , is designed for travel thanks to a fabric that resists wrinkles and keeps you looking polished.

This dress can be paired with sneakers during the day for a more casual look or with sandals for a fancy night out.

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Chic & Easy European Travel Packing List

Inspired by a question from long-time reader Jen in Pittsburgh (hi!), I went down a (fun) rabbit hole of searching for the perfect easy-but-chic outfits for travel. She was asking what to pack for Barcelona in late winter, and while that seems a little specific, the more I thought about it, the more I realized the packing list I was pulling together would actually apply to many destinations and seasons. (And it inspired this outfit I recently covered , too!)

What To Pack For A Trip To Europe: My Outfit Approach

The goal when I’m traveling to Europe is always to look chic and cool, to be comfy, and to look decidedly NOT like a standout tourist. And unless I’m heading to the beaches and islands or the very northern parts, I’m probably gonna bring a similar wardrobe to a variety of locales. For my style, that includes versatile pieces that layer well, can be easily dressed up or down, and have a classic, slightly sporty vibe.

While browsing some favorite sites for pieces to include in an actual list, I kept running across inspiring outfits. It hit me that this is probably a great way to approach packing lists from now on. Start with some solid style inspiration and then break down the pieces that you either already own or need to add to your collection to complete the looks. So, here’s the inspiration I started with!

My takeaways from my travel inspiration board were this:

• classic structured jackets to layer
• easy pants that still look polished
• comfy but stylish shoes
• a versatile button down (wear it buttoned up or halfway unbuttoned)
• timeless accessories to top it all off

Of course, it’s hard not to try to solve all the world’s packing list problems every time I come out with one of these articles, but the key is to find those main problem-solving pieces and then you can fill in with your favorite additional items…like a favorite black tee or your everyday gold necklace and earrings.

01 | 02 | 03 | 04 | 05 | 06 | 07 | 08 | 09 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 14

Chic & Easy Outfit Inspo For Your Next European Vacation

I feel most successful with my outfits for travel when I don’t try to bring the trendy pieces I own. Those are fun to try out each season, but usually they’re more difficult to style and not as versatile.

I like that these pieces are all pretty classic. I feel confident they’d take me through many years and that they feel chic but not fussy (that’s always my goal.)

One thing I would add to this list is a gorgeous scarf or wrap. My fav is a lightweight cashmere poncho-style I can wear mostly as a scarf but with the option to wear as a wrap if needed. This is another gorgeous option here .

1 | Everlane The Dream Pants

These Everlane dream pants are fabulous and would be so easy to pack. They are substantial and won’t wrinkle but are still super-comfy. They are versatile and just one of those forever pieces….Plus, they have pockets! TTS. Wearing a S.

2 | J.Crew Cashmere Classic Fit Crewneck

J.Crew makes some of our team’s favorite cashmere and it often goes on sale. These sweaters are light but warm pieces perfect for packing. TTS. Perhaps size up if you know you’ll layer underneath.

3 | Everlane Silky Cotton Relaxed Shirt

I love a classic pinstripe mixed with black pants and shoes, and the trench coat would be the perfect topper over this Everlane button-up. Classic but not boring!

4 | Nordstrom Cashmere Turtleneck

Another team fav in the cashmere category, Nordstrom’s cashmere turtleneck is a closet staple. Soft and lightweight, but also warm, it’s great for layering. Shana likes to wear these silk camis underneath as a layering option.

5 | Everlane The Easy Pant

I have the shorts version of these easy pants from last summer, and the fabric and fit are perfection. TTS and a comfy, but structured elastic waistband that doesn’t bend or fold over. I can’t wait to try these, and I’m hoping they’ll continue to offer more colors.

6 | J.Crew Leather Belt

I adore the belt over the layering jacket in the collage above. This one is similar, and again, classic! You could belt the pinstriped top, too. Being shorter waisted I sometimes have trouble with this accessory, but it looks so great I want to keep attempting it. I think sticking with a bit thinner belt (ie. not any thicker than this one I’ve linked) can be helpful in making it a success.

7 | Everlane Day Glove Flat

Shana has blogged about the Everlane Day Glove flats for years as her favorite go-to flat she could walk all day in.

8 | Everlane Italian Leather Chelsea Boot

I’ve had these Everlane Chelsea boots for a couple of weeks now, and they are so great. The gum sole is a fantastic detail, making the shoes look lighter, and it’s cushiony, too. The fit, height and overall look of these is what I’ve been searching for forever. TTS and a really lovely shoe. (Also in my forever closet .)

9 | Re/Done Stovepipe Black Jean in Comfort Stretch **

I’m not someone that goes anywhere without jeans, but sometimes black jeans can be more versatile than blue denim. I adore these Re/Done Stovepipe jeans and have linked a style in comfort stretch vs my rigid denim, thinking that would be comfier for travel. (I had to go up one size.)

10 | Madewell Oversized Shopper Bag

Madewell’s oversized shopper is structured and chic — not too giant but big enough to carry what you need everyday. The shape and the front phone/mask pocket are what have me ordering it to try. Madewell bags are the best and so well-made. I’d also probably bring a cute classic crossbody (love the option for interchangeable straps). The tote is also available at Nordstrom .

11 | Emerson Fry Layering Jacket **

I have and adore this Emerson Fry wool jacket because it’s warm and stylish, but the poncho/wide + short sleeve style makes it perfect over bulky sweaters or other jackets. I love a layered look but sleeve widths don’t always allow for that. This does! But, right now it’s a bit low in stock. It comes in a gray, too, here or this chic puffer style or this option also caught my eye.

12 | J.Crew Factory Classic Trench

There are few jackets more classic, stylish, or versatile than the trench coat. Find a classic one you love and it will also become a forever closet piece. This one from J.Crew Factory gets good reviews, is a really timeless style, and is a reasonable price, too. It’s been tricky to find any well-stocked trench coats right now. If money is no object, then you simply can’t beat the Burberry Kensington trench , especially to dance around in on a European vacation, but if you can find this Lauren Ralph Lauren option in your size, it’s a stunningly close alternative.

13 | Quay All In 56mm Aviator

A gorgeous pair of sunglasses really tops off a look and I love these from Quay at Nordstrom. I like the brown tortoise to compliment the tones in the belt and trench.

14 | Tretorn Nylite Plus Sneakers

Please dear world of travelers, can we move away from the running-shoe-worn-with-everything phase? I believe in being diplomatic in what I cover here and we never want to say “you must do this or you mustn’t do that”, but honestly one thing that stands out so much when traveling is seeing workout shoes worn with everything. There are a few exceptions to the rule, but…a classic tennis style sneaker, an Adidas Superstar , a Tretorn (like these), an Air Force 1 , a P448 , a Golden Goose …are all going to look way less touristy-American and way more fashion-forward than the literal sneakers you workout in. Sorry sorry…rant over but haha gosh it’s a passion-project of mine 😂

**Indicates meets our requirements for sustainability.

Do you have any favorite pieces that would fit along these lines? I’d love to hear about them. I’m looking forward to continuing to style up the black Dream pants , Chelsea boots and hopefully give you a review on the Madewell bag . And let me know if there are other destinations you would like to see this adjusted for! Happy, happy travels friends. This gal cannot wait to get back out there!

Would love for you to say hi over on my Instagram  @laurajansenstyle  where there are mostly odes to snacks, OOTDs and everyday mom life stuff in Portland, Oregon. xoxo

Oh, hey, Pinners! Thanks for sharing 🙂

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28 Top Europe Packing List Items for 2024 + What to Wear & NOT to Bring

From London to Lisbon and Istanbul to Iceland, Europe is extremely varied. It’s important to know what to pack because in a single trip, you may find yourself trekking up the snowy Swiss Alps, sunbathing on the Mediterranean coastline, then trudging through the rainy cobblestone streets of Paris. Even destinations only a short flight away can feel on opposite ends of the Earth.

Asher and I have been to Europe 9 times and used our extensive experience to compile this list of items that we feel are useful on any European trip. I’ll also cover what to wear in Europe , what items NOT to bring, and some important FAQs. Bon voyage!

What to Pack for Europe – 28 Essentials

1. neck wallet.

Europe is notorious for its pickpockets, especially in cities like Paris, Rome, London, Barcelona, Amsterdam, and Dublin. An RFID-blocking neck wallet allows you to easily conceal your cash, credit cards, phone, eyeglasses, and hotel keys while not screaming, “I’m a tourist!” How? The neck wallet can comfortably hide under your blouse, t-shirt or jacket, making it next to impossible for pickpockets to reach. This particular brand is extremely well-made and affordably priced.

View on Amazon.com ➜

2. Lipstick-Sized Portable Charger

Getting lost in Paris at night with a phone that just ran out of batteries was a pretty frightening experience, and not one I’d like to repeat. That’s why I always carry this tiny lipstick-sized portable charger in my purse or neck wallet. It’s super reliable and ensures I will never be without a way to look at a map, call an Uber, or to communicate with my family or friends when I’m in a pinch.

3. Virtual Private Network (VPN)

A high number of websites (or parts of websites) get blocked in many European countries. For example, often, music videos and movies on YouTube or Netflix won’t be viewable. A good VPN like NordVPN will make it possible to visit every website without censorship.

Perhaps more importantly though, is the security that a VPN gives you. According to an IT Governance report , there were over 110K breaches in Europe during the month of November 2023 alone! We learned this the hard way in Paris where we had our credit card number stolen after using what we thought was a secure Wi-Fi network at an Airbnb rental. Whenever you go on someone else’s Wi-Fi, whether it’s at a café, airport, Airbnb, or hotel – you’re potentially putting your passwords, credit cards, and identity at risk of being hacked. With a VPN, you protect your sensitive data on any device with just 1-click. And it’s super affordable!

View NordVPN.com Options ➜

4. Universal Power Adapter

European plugs and outlets are about as varied as their terrain. The most common outlets in Europe include Type C, E, F, and G. To ensure you don’t get stuck in a country without a reliable way to charge your phone or laptop, I recommend bringing a universal power adapter that will work in all European countries (except for Italy ). This one pictured comes with two USB ports, a built-in fuse to protect your devices in case of a power surge, and a lifetime replacement guarantee .

5. Natural Jet Lag Relief Pills

Jet lag is rough when flying to Europe, so I was completely overjoyed when a friend told me about NO JET LAG. Not only is it 100% natural , but it has literally zero negative side effects. The groggy, fuzzy, heavy, exhausted feeling lifts faster and allows me to get on the move upon arrival.

Pro Tip: If you find yourself anxious or jittery during flights, another solid way to stay relaxed is with this Jet Lag Relief Essential Oil . It’s mild, soothing, and combats frazzled nerves. Put a few drops on the outside of your sleep mask and feel your body start to settle down.

6. Travel Insurance for Europe

Insurance is mandatory for parts of Europe and we never leave the country without it. Europe is not a cheap place to foot a hospital bill (especially when paying out-of-pocket), and accidents happen when we least expect them. Since your domestic provider typically does not follow you overseas, we recommend protecting your travel investment against situations like cancellations, delays, theft, baggage loss, medical transport, and international hospital expenses. We had a friend break her arm hiking in Europe. Luckily, she didn’t have to pay the $35K airlift or $8K in medical bills because she had insured her trip for peace of mind and it really paid off.

Our go-to provider is Faye because they are evolving the entire insurance industry! Instead of having you fill out piles of tedious paperwork, jump through hoops, and cross your fingers to get a reimbursement – Faye handles everything on their mobile app. They wired us the funds when we needed it most instead of hanging us out to dry. Plus, in case something comes up, they can even cover you for “trip cancellation for ANY reason.”

Get a quote in less than 60 seconds with Faye ➜

7. Quick-Dry Travel Towel

Having your own travel towel in an unfamiliar hotel or B&B can be a lifesaver. These microfiber towels weigh less than half a pound and are ultra-packable. You will find yourself using them to dry off after showering or swimming, as a picnic blanket, a beach towel, or to face whatever moisture you come up against ! They dry 10x faster than cotton and without a doubt, are perfect for day trips and general travel alike.

8. Packable "Just In Case" Bag

This bag is genius because it takes up literally no space. Collapsed, the “Just in Case” bag is about the size of a folded tank top — but when full, it’s a large personal item bag that fits under your airplane seat. It also attaches to the handle of your carry-on luggage for smooth airport transit. Throw it in your larger suitcase at the start of the trip – it’ll come in handy for all the souvenirs (and chocolate!) you will inevitably pick up along the way.

9. Windproof Travel Umbrella

In order to be able to enjoy yourself even in the midst of rainy days, you need a good quality travel umbrella like the one pictured. I prefer bringing this puppy along instead of buying an overpriced one from a side street vendor that is sure to break. This one is windproof and super compact at only 12-inches when collapsed. It also comes with a lifetime replacement guarantee !

Pro Tip: If you’re heading to an extremely rainy climate like Ireland or Iceland and want to be sure to stay dry even in unpredictable storms, throw these disposable ponchos in your daypack and wear them under your umbrella. Here are our favorites for adults and children .

10. Hanging Toiletry Bag

European “water closets (W.C.)” and bathrooms are considerably smaller than the ones you’re probably used to in the U.S. — and full of charming quirks! This said, you might find your B&B in Prague or a tiny hotel in Rome won’t have ample bathroom countertop space for your makeup and skincare routine.

I like to bring this ingenious hanging toiletry bag that easily hangs on any door or wall to ensure I always have as much space as I need to stay happy, sane, and organized. This one boasts 3 external pockets and 4 large internal pockets so that you can fit everything you’d need for a multi-week trip across Europe. I leave it packed with my smaller travel products so I can just grab it and GO when adventure calls. It’s a brilliant find and you’ll never want to leave home without it!

11. TSA-Approved Silicone Travel Bottles

Try these cute travel-sized bottles that will give you the perfect amount for a normal length trip abroad. They are TSA-approved so you won’t have to throw away any part of your precious regimen and all bottles will fit easily in the hanging toiletry bag (or keep them in their own case). It’s always more challenging to find the products that you might love at home while overseas, so if you have skincare and haircare products that you like, it’s best to bring them along.

12. Europe eSIM Data Service (Avoid Roaming Fees!)

We used to purchase a physical SIM card for every trip and location, but this is an antiquated solution to a modern problem. Some airport and street vendors will sell you a janky card that won’t even work, and collecting plastic is a hassle that can be remedied by a 100% digital approach.

Saily offers a worldwide eSIM service that offers data wherever you may roam! They are setting a new standard for international internet use – some of our favorite perks are customizable data options based on your specific trip, lower roaming rates, fewer cybersecurity risks, and less waste. Not to mention, you can easily switch carriers by scanning a QR code from your phone, which is perfect if you plan to gallivant around Europe or change locations a few times.

Pick a data plan at Saily.com ➜

13. Luggage Straps

As a fairly underrated travel accessory, luggage straps are a must-have item for any traveler. They will ensure you don’t fall victim to the nightmare of having your suitcase bust open during transit, leaving all of your dirty laundry on display because of a faulty zipper or lock.

These heavy-duty straps can withstand more than 700 lbs of force-tension and will extend the life of your luggage since your bags won’t have to work as hard to hold all of your European souvenirs together! My favorite perk is that it’s way easier to spot your suitcase in a crowd of conventional bags – between the bright colors and built-in ID card, your cases will be easier to identify as you hop between airports, train stations, ports, and buses (where often, thousands of bags are all thrown together or consolidated). These belts are TSA-approved and offer real peace of mind as you repeatedly hand over your items on an international journey.

14. Discounted Tickets on European Attractions

Whether you are climbing the famous Eiffel Tower , trekking the Acropolis of Athens , standing in awe of the Roman Colosseum , or witnessing Barcelona’s Sagrada Familia – Europe has a plethora of history and magic to offer you. Where else can you swim in a geothermal spa , explore medieval castles , or stare into the eyes of Da Vinci‘s beloved Mona Lisa ?

Get Your Guide is our favorite booking service for top-tier excursions that really bring your trip to life. Building a dream itinerary is easy since you can compare reviews to ensure you’re reserving the best activities. GYG even offers cancelation up to 24-hours before your tours, making it a flexible option for all adventurers.

See all European attractions at GetYourGuide.com ➜

15. Packing Cubes

Europe has so many climates (cool, desert, alpine tundra, highland, and Mediterranean) . Prepare for any scenario with these packing cubes that are a total game-changer! You can easily categorize your suitcase for a stress-free traveling experience (use one cube for tops, one for bottoms, one for dresses, swimsuits, etc.) Gone are the days of digging through your luggage to find that long-lost sock . We also love the two bonus laundry bags that keep your dirty clothes from intermingling with your clean ones.

It’s available on HeroTravelSupply.com with an exclusive 15% discount using the coupon code “ HERO ”.

Or view on Amazon.com ➜

16. Cooling Towel

Does anyone else get a bit crabby when they get hot? (Hands please!) This cooling towel is great for the entire family because I think we all hate memories of near melt-downs in 90-degree weather. All those potentially disastrous moments — waiting in line to see Big Ben with crying little ones with no shade in sight… or walking to get the Barcelona Metro mid-August in a humidity-induced daze have since faded away merely because I discovered this remarkable little towel! It’s non-toxic, chemical-free and once you wet the material, the ice-cold cooling effect lasts for 30-60 minutes before you simply wet it again to restart the process.

17. Motion Sickness Patches

For those that suffer from motion sickness, these Anti-Nausea Motion Sickness Patches are amazing for planes, trains, and automobiles! Winding European roads can be especially curvy with lots of bends and turns, many of them carved into the sides of vertigo-inducing mountains. These patches are a miraculous herbal remedy that saved me on many occasions – trust me, they work. Don’t call in seasick or carsick to your vacation, use these instead.

18. Luggage Locks

These TSA-approved luggage locks will protect your valuables from getting stolen while your luggage is in transit. I also like to use one on my backpack while exploring crowded cities to keep pickpockets’ hands out of my stuff and they’re perfect for locking lockers in hostels or tourist sites. I seriously never travel without at least one or two combination locks, it truly helps with my peace of mind.

19. Travel Daypack

If you’re planning any day trips, a good foldable daypack should be at the top of your packing list. This Venture Pal backpack is the perfect blend of features, quality and affordability. We’ve found it to be comfortable, durable, and has numerous little compartments for all our needs. It’s also super lightweight and folds into itself so that you can store it easily when you’re not using it. Available in many colors.

20. Wellies (AKA Rain Boots)

Wellies are essential footwear for Europe since many hot spots are rainy year-round (London, Paris, Zurich, Milan, etc.) But even sunny destinations have a wet season. These rain boots are made to withstand the elements, keeping your feet dry in surprise downpours and combating any muddy terrains with non-slip traction. Add waterproof shoe bags to your suitcase to ensure you don’t get any dirt, mud, or street funk on your clean clothes!

21. Water Bottle with Built-in Filter

Water quality is tough to predict in many parts of Europe – some places have delicious, drinkable tap water. Others have little to no drinkable water available without buying expensive pre-bottled water that is bad for the environment. I always recommend that travelers bring their own water bottles with a filter, to ensure that their water is comfortable to drink. This water bottle has a built-in filter so all you have to do is fill and drink.

22. Gorgeous Outfit

Europe’s restaurant scene is killer , and there are endless opportunities to enjoy the nightlife. Even if I’m planning a fun family trip, I always pack at least one or two outfits that I would feel beautiful wearing in the evenings. It’s not always easy for me to find clothes on Amazon that I like, but I LOVE this jumpsuit because it’s easy to pack, doesn’t wrinkle if it’s tossed into my bag, and looks great on so many body types.

23. Women’s Comfy Flats

Many say that Europe is best enjoyed on foot. From museums to cafés to just taking in the architecture, you will be walking A LOT. Summer months can be hot with high chances of humidity and rain. You’ll want something breathable and comfortable, especially if they get wet in a sudden downpour. These Crocs (yes, Crocs?!) are actually super cute cozy and cool on muggy days. They are my feet’s most-loved flat choice.

24. Activated Charcoal (Food Poisoning Fix)

Europe boasts countless adorable restaurants and cafés, but… many won’t be as clean as the places you frequent at home and food poisoning happens. The most surprising was when I actually got SO sick from a $250 Michelin-rated meal in London. (Ok, I did eat roast pigeon, but I thought while in London, why not try some of the local fare!) Please don’t ruin your trip by not bringing these along. They will shorten the duration of the food-borne illness dramatically and in many cases, can alleviate the problem immediately.

25. Cheers Hangover Relief

These supplements use vitamins and liver-detoxing herbs like milk thistle to remove alcohol from the body more quickly. Asher and I aren’t big drinkers, but the wine in Europe is divine. When making the most out of pub tours, vineyard stops, and gourmet dining – keep your body in tip-top shape with these hangover-prevention pills. You don’t want to spend long days in museums or on historical tours with a looming headache and fatigue. If you’re planning to drink, give them a try!

26. Deodorant Wipes

Europe in the Summer is a hot and muggy wonderland. While you’re immersed in the historical beauty all around you, you do NOT want to worry about dripping through your couture. I personally hate reapplying deodorant to my already sweaty armpits, and I will no longer succumb to washing my face and underarms in a sink that has no paper towels to dry myself. These non-toxic, natural wipes do the trick! They fit nicely in my purse or day pack, and with a quick wipe, I’m as fresh as a daisy!

27. Rolling Suitcase

Choosing a good suitcase is like choosing a good partner – both will need to be durable, reliable, secure, and ready to come on many adventures with you (and look good while doing it!) The apple of my eye is this Wrangler Rolling Suitcase . It is massive and really exceeded my expectations. Made of 100% nylon, it has the lightness of a duffle bag but the sturdiness of a regular suitcase. It will be a breeze to maneuver through crowded airports and cobblestone streets (or hauling up typical 5-story buildings with no elevator; you will thank us). Arrive at your hotel in utter comfort, at an even more comfortable price!

28. Reusable Wine Bags (Leak-Proof)

Since these prevent bottle breakages in transit, these reusable leak-proof bags are great for drinkers and non-drinkers alike. I use them for souvenirs and family gifts like French perfume bottles, Italian olive oils, delicate ceramics, literally anything made of glass ! With thick bubble padding and a double seal, you can get a ton of use out of them. And of course, between the Chianti, Bordeaux, Champagne, Cava, and any other European spirit you stumble upon – these will be a thoughtful addition to your checked luggage.

1. Travel Stroller or Double travel stroller

Pro Tip: If you have older children (ages 5+) consider bringing along a double-seated stroller. You’ll be walking miles and miles in Europe and kids get tired easily. Give their little legs a rest and your sleepy tots will probably take a nap on the ride home.

View on Amazon.com ➜

2. Travel Car Seat and Stroller Combo for Infants

Note: All airlines will check your car seat at the ticket counter free of charge. View on Amazon.com ➜

3. Travel Carseat for Toddlers and Little Kiddos

Pro Tip: A Car Seat Luggage Belt is an ultra-portable travel solution to work with what you already have. The strap allows you to attach your car seat to your suitcase. So in a matter of seconds, you have an effortless mode of getting your kids from airport to airport without having to push a heavy stroller around (plus all carry-on luggage). Works like a charm!

4. Stroller Clips

5. Woolino Sleep Sack

It’s a great way to keep babies cozy on an airplane and ensure they feel safe during long travel days. It’s also helpful for unpredictable temperatures in hotels. It’s a bit expensive but also worth it since it replaces loose blankets you would otherwise need in the crib. We don’t have to travel with many blankets, which also keeps our luggage weight down.

6. Baby Bjorn Travel Crib

Pro Tip: Before you travel, have your tot take a few naps using this travel crib and create a consistent routine around it. Your babies will come to perceive it as a place of solace. This at-home practice will be invaluable to them connecting with it in new and unfamiliar settings.

7. Homeopathic First Aid Kit

We try to opt for the homeopathic approach to medicine because it is a natural and often botanical way to treat the underlying cause of conditions – aiming to get you off the medicine sooner rather than becoming reliant upon it. We love that these natural, safe, effective remedies don’t cause harmful side effects and are safe for children. Natural remedies actually stimulate the body’s ability to heal itself and boost your baby’s natural immunity. They have saved us repeatedly during teething, tummy aches, or sickness. I can’t recommend them enough.

• Natural Gas Relief – We have many Hyland baby products and love that they are formed with NO artificial flavors or dyes. They relieve the pains of gas, stomach pressure, burping, constipation and bloating, and restlessness.
• Echinacea Drops – We give our children these immune-boosting drops before any trip and they’ve yet to become sick while traveling. They taste like nature’s candy and can be given to children 6-months+. Crafted with wild echinacea flower, it provides natural health in a bioactive compound.
• Baby Calm – As the name indicates, these tablets are wonderful for calming your little one and keeping them relaxed. For a baby that is restless, teething, or gets fussy and irritable while traveling – these are a lifesaver. They instantly reduce baby’s irritation so everyone can get back to sleep!
• Earache Relief – By age 3-5, nearly every toddler has had an ear infection and it is one of the most common reasons young parents go to the doctor. These all-natural drops are a must-have for parents; they will reduce symptoms like pain, irritability, fever, and sleeplessness, providing a safe application in the form of a dropper.
• Baby Vitamin C – Mary Ruth is one of our favorite brands because it’s organic and what you see is what you get – the only ingredient in this product is organic Vitamin C. It is an incredible immune booster, powerhouse antioxidant, and protects against free radicals. I start to give our children this a few days before we travel.
• Camilia Teething Relief – Prevent teething pain before it begins with these natural relief drops. We aim for homeopathic solutions that target the root cause of the pain instead of just masking the symptoms. These droppers also alleviate digestion issues related to teething, restoring peace for the entire family.

See more tips on traveling with babies in our guide on best baby travel gear ➜

Other Europe Packing List Items Not to Forget

• Travel First-Aid kit
• Compression Flight Socks
• Facial Cleansing Wipes
• Affordable Underwater Camera
• Reusable Travel Wine Bags
• Steripod Toothbrush Cover
• Dental Floss
• Hand Sanitizer
• Mini Hairbrush
• Nail Clippers
• Insect Repellent
• Loofah Glove
• Noise-Canceling Headphones
• Headphone Splitter
• Flash Drive
• Memory Card
• Electronic Organizer Case
• Travel Toilet Paper
• Shoulder Bag Women
• Shoulder Bag Men
• Waterproof Phone Case
• Travel Pillow
• Travel Sheet
• Personal Item Travel Bag
• Passport photos
• Other European packing lists you may like:
• Amsterdam |
• Barcelona |
• Camino de Santiago |
• Castle Trip |
• Copenhagen |
• French Riviera |
• London & UK |
• London Study Abroad |
• Mediterranean Cruise |
• Santorini |
• Switzerland |
• Vatican City |

What Should I Wear in Europe?

Europe’s weather varies a lot by country and by season, so it’s a good idea to do a little research on your specific destinations. Three things you should expect with a trip to Europe are:

Walking: You’ll be doing a LOT of walking. Bring shoes that are comfortable but that still look nice.

Fashion and Style: No, you don’t need to dress like a model, but you should look nice to fit in. Choose mainly dark colors, especially dark jeans if you’re wearing jeans.

The weather often varies a lot across Europe so you will want to pack clothes that are versatile. European women are quite stylish so choose outfits that are more on the smart casual side. Ankle boots are very popular and a pair of nice sneakers or flats are great to have while exploring around. Choose dark colored pants, jeans, or leggings to wear with camis, blouses, long knitted sweaters or cardigans, and dresses. Outside, leather jackets are popular and a scarf is essential. Accessories to add to any outfit include retro shades with a leather saddle bag or vintage rucksack to carry your things. What should MEN wear in Europe? – (Click to expand) Below is a sample men’s clothing list. (All items link to Amazon.com for your convenience).

Packing for the Seasons in Europe

Spring – march, april, may.

Spring counts as one of the shoulder seasons for Europe, and is an ideal time to travel to many locations which will have sparser crowds and still agreeable weather. Although, some places will be wet and dreary at this time, so check the specs on your destination before you pack.

Rain gear is absolutely crucial during spring, so bring a quality windproof travel umbrella and a good rain jacket . Boots are a good idea in most places, just in case you find yourself slogging through mud or wet grass. Temperatures average between 41°F and 58°F (5°C to 14°C).

SUMMER – June, July, August

European summers are lovely, and typically comfortably warm – though parts of Europe can endure searing heat during the peak of summer.

The downside of this nicer weather is that the summer is when most tourists visit, making it high-season. If you can handle the crowds and the inflated prices, it’s a gorgeous season to visit!

You probably won’t need any heavier outerwear unless you’re traveling to destinations farther north or at higher altitudes. Temperatures average between 59°F and 78°F (15°C to 26°C).

FALL – September, October, November

Fall or autumn is the second half of the shoulder season in Europe, and brings milder weather and again, smaller crowds. Prepare for some precipitation (usually drizzle) and chill, but expect tolerable to fair conditions. As always, check on averages for your destinations to be sure!

Autumn in Europe calls for a light jacket , dependable waterproof walking shoes , and a couple of scarves to keep warm should a chillier day arise. Temperatures average between 45°F and 60°F (7°C to 16°C).

WINTER – December, January, February

Winter in many areas of Europe is cold, but generally mild. Depending on your location, you may experience anything from chilly seaside winds to blustery gales and everything in between. Mostly, you’ll see days that chill you and necessitate hot chocolate and warm jackets .

Churches – Europe doesn’t disappoint when it comes to the number of beautiful, magnificent churches and other holy sites. From the medieval cathedral of Notre-Dame de Paris to the world’s largest church at St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City, and the 700-year-old Westminster Abbey in London, there’s a lot to see! With any religious site, it is important to dress conservatively. Shoulders need to be covered and women should avoid wearing anything with a deep v neck or tops that expose the midriff or back. Dresses, skirts, and shorts can be worn if it goes below the knee. Keep in mind, many places have now banned selfie sticks so leave them at home.

Museums and Galleries – You can find some of the world’s best museums in Europe. What was once a medieval fortress now houses the most famous painting, Leonardo Da Vinci’s Mona Lisa, at the Louvre in Paris, France. There’s also the Rosetta Stone at The British Museum in London, and insights into Athenian life at The Acropolis Museum in Athens. Dress smart casual if you are planning to visit any museums or galleries. It can often get quite chilly so bring a shawl or sweater to stay warm. You will also be doing a lot of walking, so make sure to wear comfortable shoes such as flats, loafers, or sneakers. Museums tend to be very quiet so avoid anything with a heel that makes a lot of noise while walking.

Eating Out – Europe is a food lover paradise offering the best of French, Italian, Greek, and Spanish cuisine just to name a few. From traditional markets offering local products to the best of fine dining, you can find an array of foodie experiences. If you are looking for the best of the best, book a reservation at a Michelin starred restaurant such as Arpège in Paris, The Ledbury in London, or La Pergola in Rome. Europeans tend to dress up in the evenings so pack a few nicer pieces for dining out. Men can wear leather shoes with trousers or dark fitted jeans with a button up shirt and blazer jacket. Women can wear wedges or a pair of nice flats with maxi dresses for warm weather or dark slim fit trousers with a nice blouse on top and a few accessories during colder months.

What NOT to Take to Europe

1. don’t bring lots of electronics.

I recommend packing a camera and a Kindle , and maybe your laptop, but don’t bring much more than that. Unless you have other electronics you’ll really need on your trip, it’s just not worth the risk of them being lost or stolen.

2. DON’T PACK a bath towel

It’s a good idea to bring a towel with you to Europe, but regular towels are bulky and heavy, and take way too long to dry. Take a quick-dry travel towel instead – they’re much lighter and smaller, but still plenty absorbent.

3. DON’T TAKE expensive jewelry

Similarly, you don’t want to risk valuable or sentimental jewelry getting lost or stolen on the road. Plus, wearing a lot of flashy jewelry can make you a target. Pack a couple of pieces you’ll want to wear on your trip, and leave the rest at home.

4. DON’T BRING lots of cash

Except for in very rural areas, nearly any place you visit in Europe will have ATMs, and many spots take credit cards, too. There’s no need to take a ton of cash and risk it being lost or stolen.

5. DON’T PACK a bunch of books

Some hostels and cafes in Europe have book exchanges where you can pick up a free paperback and drop it off at a future exchange when you’re done. Or, you can simply load up a Kindle , and do your reading on a lighter device that’s easier to pack.

6. DON’T TAKE a Europe-wide guidebook

Lonely Planet and many other publications have a guidebook that covers all of Europe, but they rarely have sufficient detail on any individual place. Do your generic Europe research online, and get the guidebooks for the specific countries or regions you’ll be visiting.

7. DON’T TAKE too many clothes

Pare it down to a few outfits, and if you run out of things to wear, it’s not hard to find a place to do laundry in most parts of Europe.

8. DON’T PACK overly casual clothes

Europeans tend to dress well and dress up more than North Americans do. While you’ll want some casual clothes for hanging around your hostel or hitting the pool or beach , I’d suggest bringing slightly nicer clothing for your Europe trip.

FAQs About Trips to Europe

1. is the tap water in europe safe to drink.

You can drink the tap water in most of Europe. However, that is not true for countries in the Balkans and the Former Soviet Union. In those areas, travelers should be careful to avoid tap water unless it has been treated. In Eastern Europe, you may also want to avoid untreated tap water outside the major cities to be safe. With this being said we recommend you always use a filtered water bottle to be sure.

2. How prevalent is English in Europe?

Among European countries, English is the primary native language only in the U.K. and Ireland, but it is widely spoken as a second language elsewhere. In Nordic countries and the Netherlands, a large portion of the population speaks English well, even in smaller towns. In Western Europe, you won’t have much trouble finding English speakers in major towns or popular tourist sites, and most people who work in the tourism industry speak English.

The farther east you go, however, the less English you’ll encounter (though hotel staff still commonly speak English). English speakers can certainly still travel in those countries, it just might be a bit more challenging.

3. What countries in Europe are the cheapest to visit?

In general, Eastern Europe is significantly cheaper than Western Europe. Hungary, Bulgaria, Romania, Poland, and the Czech Republic are especially popular budget travel destinations, but Slovakia, Serbia, Latvia, and Ukraine are also very cheap to visit.

4. Is it safe for women to travel alone to Europe?

Yes! Women should have no more fear about traveling alone than men should – especially when traveling to places in Europe. Stay in areas that are safe for tourists, don’t flaunt the fact that you’re a tourist, and take standard safety precautions with your money. The one thing that may be more applicable to women than to men is that you shouldn’t go walking alone at night, but that’s standard anywhere.

Don’t carry excess cash, take familiar routes when possible, try to avoid out-of-place clothing, and relax! You’re more likely to blend in instead of sticking out as a tourist if you look like you belong there. It will likely make you more comfortable to research current country-specific travel notes here .

5. What vaccines or medicines should I get before traveling to my destination?

Since each country will have its own regulations and mandates, stay up-to-date through the CDC’s Destination Tool . It allows you to select the countries you are visiting and check real-time updates on the vaccines and medications that you need for your next trip. It is also recommended to consult a physician at least one month before you depart to ensure you are current on all required vaccines and medicines for that particular destination.

If you are traveling to several countries with unique vaccine requirements, confirm the cross-over and discuss your specific travel plans with your doctor. If you’re only in a country for a short duration or you’re only remaining in the touristic area near the coast (for example, while cruising ), certain vaccines may not be necessary.

6. Is it worth getting a Eurail pass?

Europe’s train systems are highly lauded, and many backpackers and other travelers in Europe plan their trips around riding the train from country to country. But many find themselves wondering, “Is a Eurail pass worth it?” Whether a pass is the cheapest option depends on how many train rides you’ll be taking, where you’ll be riding, and how far in advance you could book tickets.

In general, a pass will save money if you’re visiting a lot of different countries and/or taking long train rides, while buying individual tickets is cheaper if you’re booking far in advance or if you’re traveling exclusively in Eastern Europe. But, one of the biggest perks of using a pass is the flexibility: last-minute train tickets are expensive, so if you want to be able to travel with more spontaneity, a pass is the way to go.

7. Do I need to tip in restaurants in Europe?

Restaurants in Europe often note on the menu or bill that a service charge is included, in which case an additional tip is not necessary. Otherwise, tipping is not required but it’s customary to round up the bill. If you do decide to tip, make sure to do it in cash and hand it directly to your server. The major exception to this rule is Scandinavian countries, where tipping is not generally practiced.

8. What is the best way to get around Europe?

Public transportation is well developed throughout most of Europe, and it’s generally easy to get from country to country. Most trains in Europe are comfortable and efficient, and train travel is probably the most popular way to get around, whether you opt for a Eurail pass or individual tickets (see above). For most routes, though, the bus is cheaper than the train, and Eurolines is the main network of international buses in Europe. With budget airlines like Ryanair and EasyJet, flying between countries can be an affordable option, too; just check Google Flights or a site like Kayak to see all the flight options.

9. Where can travelers get off the beaten path in Europe?

In general, Western Europe is much more traveled than Eastern Europe, and capital cities and historical sites are often heavily visited. To get off the beaten path, head to rural areas or to countries in the Balkans or the Former Soviet Union, which see relatively little tourism.

10. Do I need a visa to visit Europe?

To visit countries in the Schengen Area, which currently includes 26 European countries, citizens of the U.S., Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, and most of Central and South America do not need a visa for tourist visits of up to 90 days (within any 180-day period). The U.K. is not part of the Schengen Area, and allows citizens of most of the same countries to visit visa-free for up to six months. Check here to verify the current requirements.

11. What is the best time of year to visit Europe?

In general, the best seasons to visit Europe are the spring and fall, particularly in May, June, and September. During these months, prices are lower than during peak season, and the weather is agreeable in most areas.

12. Are there any good Mediterranean cruises?

Absolutely! Apart from the Caribbean, we believe the Mediterranean is the best place to do a cruise. Why? Well it’s simple, you often get to see six different countries in the space of 10-days and many itineraries have only a couple of cruising days. This means you can be out exploring the ports every day and finding the best food and best excursions to do while enjoying such an array of different cultures in such a short time. If you’re wondering what to pack for a cruise , read our full guide.

13. Are there any recent travel restrictions to be aware of?

The European Union (the political union of 27 major European countries) applied a wide range of safety measures regarding the COVID-19 pandemic. These requirements have varied from negative diagnostic tests to not allowing in non-citizens for non-essential travel, essentially locking down the borders.

As of late 2022, Travel restrictions are lifting more and more – France, Finland, Greece, Croatia, Portugal, Denmark, and others are relaxing the vaccination requirements. Iceland and Norway have removed nearly all COVID-19-related travel restrictions.

If you intend to travel in the E.U., you should check the European Commissioner’s Platform for real-time border updates. You can also visit Travel.State.Gov for a traveler’s checklist on documentation requirements and they are a great resource for Country Specific COVID-19 Information .

14. How can I save money while traveling in Europe?

There are lots of ways to save money in Europe. For starters, stick to hostels or try couch-surfing to cut your accommodations costs. Car rentals and taxis can be pricey, so use trains and buses to get around instead, or just walk. Limit eating out, and pick up groceries for some of your meals; look for hostels or vacation rentals that have kitchens where you’ll be able to cook.

Try eating out at lunch instead of dinner too, as many restaurants in Europe have good-value (and filling) lunch specials. Skip the bottled water, and just bring a reusable water bottle that you can keep filling up. And of course, putting a limit on your alcohol consumption will always save money.

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21 Best Travel Dresses For Europe: Cute & Comfortable

April 11, 2024

Time to read 7 min

I'm traveling to Europe this summer, so I thought I would share the best travel dresses for Europe that will get you the perfect Instagram pic + keep you comfortable while exploring cities and towns! From  flowy maxi dresses made from lightweight linens , to chic mini dresses for a romantic dinner in Tuscany there is something you will love.

21 best travel dresses for Europe

1. anthropologie taking sides maxi travel dress for europe.

Comes in 10+ other colors! I also love the open back. You can wear this with a pair of these  walking shoes for europe.

One verified buyer said,  "I bought this dress for Cabo for my senior spring break and wow it is perfect! It is the perfect fit up top, has nice support, and covers everything. I am a 32B, so not super large, but I was still worried about side boob but it’s perfect. I’m 5’4 and the length is perfect also. Definitely recommend."

2. Petites Balia Linen Dress

This linen dress from Reformation has European summer all over it. It's pricey, but made from 100% linen, so you know the material is lightweight and breathable (perfect for those hot summer days).  Reformation also has  summer dresses for petites!

Wear it with one of these comfortable walking sandals for Europe.

3. Lucy Paris Hazel Smocked Dropped Waist Dress

I love the cinched waist on this - looks very comfortable but also very put together. Wear this for afternoon tea at the Ritz. Comes in a white color too! 

4. Farm Rio Green One Shoulder Lea Mini Travel Dress

Obsessed with the floral applique on this dress! It's made from lightweight fabric for the summer time and can be worn for a ton of occasions including dinner on a lowkey cobblestone street in Europe.

5. Princess Polly Lace Mini Dress Blue

The perfect dress to wear to a museum or shopping!! Comes in burgundy and black too. One verified buyer left a review and said, "My favorite dress I have ever bought, so obsessed. It’s beautiful!!"

If you're traveling soon, check out these 9 rimowa dupes that are good quality.

6. Ayla Cream Stripe Midi Travel Dress For Vacation

7. A.L.C Camila Short-Oversized Sleeve Tiered Mini Dress

Obsessed with this color and love the way they styled it. It can also be dressed up or down - wear it with strappy heels or flats for night time or white sneakers for a day out in the city/town. If it were me, I would take it to the tailor and cinch in the waist a little more for a fitted and polished look.

8. Faithful the Brand Artemi Knit Dress

I love anything brown/espresso color this Summer. Pair this with flats and a clutch for a dinner out in the city.

9. Abercrombie Mara Vest Mini Travel Dress For Hot Weather

You'll blend right in as a European local in this vest mini dress from Abercrombie! Comes in different colors and a longer version too.

Don't forget to check out these 21 travel accessories for your trip to Europe that will make your life so much easier.

10. The Peregrine Mini Casual Travel Dress

Pair this with beige flats and a cute sun hat. Perfect for people watching at a cafe on a sunny day. 

11. Favorite Daughter Linen Dress Black

Love how this has a cinched waist and flowy bottom. It comes in white too.

One verified customer said, "Favorite, truly. Beautifully constructed, high quality material. Comfortable, chic, flattering and a classic. I love wearing this dress."

12. Tagliatelle Denim Midi Dress

Denim dresses are in again, and I LOVE this one from Reformation. This fabric is a light weight denim twill made of 100% Regenerative Cotton. 

13. Cioaluca Gianluca Linen Dress For Europe

Comes in a light blue color too! Picture wearing this seaside in Italy 😌

Don't forget to check out these 48 outfits for italy that are elegant and timeless.

14. La Ligne Strapless Vivian Dress

I have this in a light blue and I love it. The quality is unmatched compared to other brands which is why it's pricey. It's well worth spending money on good quality fabrics especially since you'll be in hot weather. Polyester and synthetic fabrics will heat you up in the summer! Trust me.

15. Faithful the Brand Marieka Midi Tuscany Dress Brown

Made from 100% cotton for those hot summer days out in the tuscan sun!

16. Dissh ELENA BUTTERMILK LINEN MINI DRESS

Pair this with black flip flops or platform sandals. P.S: Get free shipping and instant refunds on their website!

Looking for more linen dresses? Check out these  lightweight petite linen dresses.

17. J. Crew Bungalow maxi popover south of france dress linen

So chic and elegant - comes in other colors too, but I love this light blue for the summer. Pair this with comfortable walking sandals for Europe and your bikini underneath.

18. Posse Lori Open-Back Polka-Dot Mini Travel Dress For Europe

Polk-a-dots are also in this summer! This one from Moda Operandi is a great option and made from 100% linen.

19. Abercrombie Flowy Tiered Maxi Dress

Comes in other patterns too! One verified buyer said, "I love this dress! It's super flowy and light weight. I would recommend that you size down if you want a more cinched looked because usually I wear a small, but had to size down to x-small. The back is adjustable but there was still a little too much room for me. Another feature that I love about this dress is that it has pockets! Overall, amazing dress!"

It also comes in a similar short mini dress version too.

20. Sndys Tahlia Lightweight Dress

Such a good price for Revolve! Plus get free U.S shipping and returns!! Also such amazing reviews on this. One buyer said, "The details of this dress make it very original! It fits really well, accentuates my waist and its very comfortable and stylish at the same time. The perfect summer dress (100% cotton). Can be worn with flats, wedges or heels. I loved the detail of the straps in the back and the uneven hem, gives it an interesting movement. Will definitely order in the chocolate color."

21. Bondi Born Bormio Strapless Maxi Dress Elegant

This is expensive, but everyone will be thinking "who is she?" I love how you can wear this travel dress during the daytime and night time depending on what you pair it with. If you're going for a casual daytime look, go for flip flops and a shoulder bag. For a fancy dinner, opt for heeled sandals, chunky jewelry, and a clutch!

Other Travel Dress Collections to Browse

Take a look at Doen for well-made, timeless pieces. You can feel the love and care put into each item. Their dresses this season capture the vibe of a European summer.

J. Crews summer collection is definitely worth a visit - if you're looking for timeless and qood quality pieces at a reasonable price this is your go-to.

Check out Revolve for when you need something last minute. Their fast shipping is the only reason why I shop here. Also side note: they now have a filter that shows you which items are actually in-stock. 

Explore Peppermayo for affordable yet striking prints and designs.

Summersalt really emphasizes on making sure their clothing fits right. According to their about us page, they have "1.5 million measurements from 10,000 real women" allowing them to create the most iconic fitted swimwear.

How to Pick the Perfect Travel Dress For Europe

Traveling to Europe is always exciting, but the outfits you choose play a huge part in the experience. Selecting the right travel dresses can truly enhance your trip and the memories you create.  Starting with versatile, lightweight dresses that transition perfectly from day to evening wear is crucial. This approach not only saves luggage space but also offers great value. Aim for breathable, wrinkle-resistant materials like linen and cotton for effortless elegance. And if you're a fan of silk, consider packing a portable clothing steamer to keep your looks fresh. Whether you're wandering through the south of France, strolling along the Seine, or soaking up the sun at Il Pelicano (for those in the know), choosing the perfect travel dress that reflects your personal style is essential.

Travel Dresses For Italy and South of France

When traveling to Italy or the south France, there are a lot of dress options you can go with. It all really depends on where you're going and the activities you'll be doing. For days where you'll be exploring vineyards or coastal towns, go for a flowy maxi dress. If you're planning more urban adventures, such as museum tours or exploring a city, opt for a comfortable midi dress with comfortable walking shoes. For a more fancier outing, like a dinner at a nice restaurant, opt for a more elegant dress

Wherever you'll be going, just remember that the key is to choose dresses that not only match the setting, but also make you feel confident and comfortable as you create unforgettable memories.

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Global Munchkins

Travel + Global Inspired Lifestyle

April 7, 2023

Packing List for Europe – [10 Amazing Outfits] in just one Carry On!

Packing for Europe can be quite the process. A couple years ago I hopped on a jet plane headed to Prague to visit my baby sister. I was flying alone and on one of the economy airlines, which charges an arm and a leg for luggage.

Thus, I had to trim down my packing list to one single carry on.  The goal for our Packing List for Europe…10 outfits in just a single carry on .

Packing List for Europe

As a mom of six who has traveled to Europe a few times, I know how important it is to have a good packing list to make sure that you’re prepared for all of the adventures you’ll have on your trip. Here are some essentials that I recommend including in your Europe packing list.

Packing for 10 days in Europe in only a small carry on . Can you do it? I did and here is how…

Here is what you will need:

• 2 comfy, casual tops
• 1 dress-up-or-down tops
• 3 versatile dresses or jumpsuits
• 2 bottoms of your choice (pants, shorts, etc.)
• 1 “nicer” outfit
• 2 warm layers (preferably lightweight)
• 1 pair of sneakers, one pair of flats, one pair of sandals
• Simple accessories: a package hat, a couple necklaces, and a scarf (I always bring one on the plane in case it gets chilly)

The goal is to find neutral pieces that you can mix and match with almost everything in your suitcase. This allows you to bring less things overall, and it’s so much simpler to plan out your outfits. My personal style is more California Casual, so I already had many pieces in my closet that I could bring.

Don’t feel like you need to go out and buy a whole new wardrobe but investing in a few new pieces that will get plenty of wear long after your travels is a smart idea. Plus it’s always fun to have new things to wear while taking pictures on vacation. 

Shop these pieces here

Why I chose these items:

One of the most important things I suggest bringing is a comfortable pair of shoes. I love these Superga sneakers because they can be worn with everything from the most causal looks to a nicer outfit. 

Since there are a lot of cobblestone streets in Europe it is a good idea to pack some good walking shoes for your trip to Europe!

A comfortable pair of sandals is so important because you will be trekking a whole lot of miles each day exploring. I love that these sandals are stylish to wear out to a nice place, but my feet don’t hurt after walking in them all day.

More comfortable sandals solutions here :

I keep my accessories really simple if I’m packing light. A packable sunhat that makes it easy to spend less time on your hair and more time adventuring is a must, and I add in some simple necklaces like this one to complete my looks. 

Another important thing to bring is a mid-sized bag that is easy to carry, and durable. I love wearing a backpack like this one that feels comfortable and looks cute with all my outfits. 

You could also bring along a fanny pack – Not the ones your mom used to wear; the cute trendy ones . This will be a nice safe spot to hold your cash and passport.

Shop more of my favorite travel bags here :

Some shopping tips:

• Sign up for e-mail newsletters from your favorite online stores so you don’t miss their promotions. Also check our weekly sales page for all the most up to date sales from our favorite stores like Madewell and Loft for cute seasonal pieces, Splendid for great basics, and Nordstrom for basically all the rest of your travel needs. 
• Shop at sites that have easy returns so if you don’t love it, it’s not a hassle to send it back.
• Don’t be afraid to spend more because you will end up buying less. All these items I am suggesting make great investment pieces for your wardrobe that will get plenty of wear for many seasons.

What To Do Once You’ve Decided on Your Capsule Looks

Pretty awesome right. Like they say, “why re-invent the wheel.” Go a little pin crazy. After you have found your inspiration follow these easy steps:

• Scour your closet- you will be shocked by how much is in there I promise.
• Purchase needed items- head to Nordstrom’s Rack , H&M or Target to pick up any items you still need while on a budget.
• Have a Fashion Show- try on everything. Find as many combinations you can make out of the least amount of pieces.
• Lay everything out- then 24 hours later go through and take out anything you feel you don’t REALLY need. Be really strict with yourself here, less IS more!!!
• Take pictures of your outfits- Save them to an album on your phone so you spend less time getting ready and more time out having fun.

Don’t Forget These Must-Have Items:

• Portable Charger- Not just any portable charger but specifically this one- the MyCharge Portable Charger Power Bank . I have tested tons of portable chargers throughout my travels and this one is by far my favorite. Not only does it charge incredibly fast (up to 75% faster to be exact), but it also has two charging cables attached so you don’t need to attach any additional cords. And, the MyCharge charges directly in the wall making it so much more effective than any other portable charger I have used. Grab one on Amazon (it’s prime) here.

• Universal Travel Adapter- You will definitely need to bring a travel adaptor to charge all your accessories. This one also converts voltage so you can use your curling iron, electric toothbrush, etc.

• Travel Pillow- It’s a long flight from the States, you want to get some sleep on the plane. Pack a nice travel pillow. Some attach to the outside of your bag like the one I use here .

• Trip Wipes- Really convenient for wiping down any surfaces when your on the go like your tray table and seat on the plane.

• Wrinkle Release Spray or Travel Garment Steamer- In Europe, you are often on the go which means irons are not always handy. Grab a little wrinkle release spray to spritz on your clothes and you will be traveling through Europe wrinkle free. Or if you have pieces that you know get extra wrinkled in your suitcase, bring along this travel steamer.

• Melatonin- Melatonin is a must in my international packing. Getting used to a time change is so much easier when you have a little sleep aid. Melatonin is all natural, so you shouldn’t have any lingering sleep issues after taking it. We love this brand here .

Here is a quick video that talks about my Favorite Packing Hacks:

Using the above methods I successfully packed my entire wardrobe in my carry on suitcase.

I filled my backpack with my laptop , camera, chargers, universal adapter , passport, copies of all my travel reservations and my travel backpack . And, now I am good to go!!

If you enjoyed reading about our packing list for Europe, you might also enjoy:

• Packing Tips
• Best Food Tour in Rome
• Walks of Italy Tours
• 29 Swoonworthy Photos Of Prague

Frequently Asked Questions for Packing List For Europe

How do i not overpack for europe.

Overpacking for Europe can be tempting, especially if you’re not sure what to expect or if you want to be prepared for any possible scenario. However, lugging around too much stuff can be a real hassle, especially when you’re navigating crowded cities and public transportation.

One way to avoid overpacking is to use packing cubes. These handy little organizers can help you compartmentalize your clothes and keep them tidy, so you can easily see what you have and avoid overpacking.

Is it better to roll or fold clothes when packing?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to whether it’s better to roll or fold clothes when packing. However, a good rule of thumb is to roll softer, more casual items like short sleeved shirts, tank tops, and shorts, while folding more structured items like dress pants, blouses, and long sleeved shirts.

Ultimately, the best method is the one that works for you and your specific packing needs.

Should you have travel insurance when traveling to Europe?

Yes, it’s always a good idea to have travel insurance when traveling to Europe or any other destination.

Travel insurance can provide you with a range of benefits, including coverage for unexpected medical emergencies, trip cancellations or interruptions, lost or stolen luggage, and more.

Pin for Later: Packing List for Europe – [10 Amazing Outfits] in just one Carry On!

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Reader Interactions

April 10, 2016 at 9:50 pm

Ah, Europe. I’ll be seeing you real soon!!

April 13, 2016 at 4:18 pm

That’s impressive. I’ve just gone away twice in March for a weekend and barely squeaked by with a carry on.

April 18, 2017 at 6:20 pm

What are the black boots in the 10 days in Europe for spring? Searching for a great simple black boot to walk a lot in each day.

April 18, 2017 at 9:55 pm

Hello Melissa here is a link to the boots- http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/sole-society-natasha-boot-women/3771880 I hope you have an amazing trip 🙂

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Travel Europe on a Budget

The Savvy Backpacker

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Fashion advice: how to avoid looking like an american tourist in europe.

Fashion advice to help you look like a local when visiting Europe.

Helpful Travel Tips & Articles , Packing

I am not a fashion expert and the point of this guide isn’t to teach you how to look “European.”  In fact, there isn’t a “European” look. Just like in America, Europeans wear all styles of clothes and the subtilities vary from country to country.

That said, styles do tend to be a little more “dressy” or “put together” but plenty of Europeans wear a casual t-shirt, sneakers, and jeans wardrobe.

Honestly, there is not a huge difference between what the average 25-year-old American wears and what their European counterparts wear thanks to globalization (i.e. we’re all shopping at similar stores).

This guide will help you “blend in” so you’re not taken for an American tourist from 100 yards away. If nothing else, this guide will help you look like a generic European tourist.

HEY LADIES! We’ve created a guide to women’s fashion in Europe with female fashion tips and advice. The guide you’re reading now is geared towards men’s style.

What Not To Wear In Europe

Let’s take a look at some general guidelines on what things you shouldn’t wear when you’re visiting Europe if you want to avoid looking like a tourist.

Athletic Clothing

It’s rare to see Europeans wearing head-to-toe athletic clothing—especially in major cities. So you can be fairly certain you’re looking at Americans anytime you see a group of people wearing basketball shorts and t-shirts. The same goes for sports jerseys.

Overtly Athletic Shoes

Europeans wear sneakers—especially cool sneakers.

So yes, you can wear sneakers in Europe ! I think you should 1,000% wear sneakers in Europe because you’ll walk multiple miles every day.

But you’ll rarely see fashionable Europeans wearing full-on running shoes (unless they’re doing something athletic). However, even “cool” running shoes have found their way onto the feet of fashionable Europeans.

Nike, New Balance, Puma, Adidas, etc. all make comfortable “athletic lifestyle” sneakers that are both fashionable and suitable for miles of city walking. A pair of minimalist leather sneakers is another good option if you want something a little more fashionable.

In short, don’t feel like you need to wear nice “dress” shoes. Check out my guide to the best travel shoes for men to see some of my favorite travel shoes .

Flip Flop Sandals

Save the flip-flops for the beach.

While Europeans don’t wear shorts as frequently as Americans, you’ll find plenty of Europeans wearing shorts throughout the continent—especially in the warmer regions.

The key is to avoid athletic shorts. Khaki cargo shorts are another trademark of the stereotypical American tourist.

Sweatpants and Athletic Pants

You’ll rarely see Europeans wearing sweatpants in public so I recommend avoiding them.

Athletic pants are also rare so my rule of thumb is to avoid anything that looks like you’d wear to run/play soccer.

However, many companies design pants that use performance fabrics but are still cut/styled like normal pants. These can be a good option if you still want the comfort of “athletic” pants without looking like you’re about to exercise.

American Baseball Caps and Other Sporting Fan Gear

Baseball-style caps aren’t uncommon in Europe but wearing a cap from your local sports team will often peg you as an American tourist. I recommend wearing a plain hat or one that’s not branded with a sports team.

On the other hand, Yankees hats seem to be one of the most popular fashion accessories among Europeans so that’s always an option.

Other fan gear like shirts and jackets will also peg you as a tourist so avoid stuff like that if you want to blend in.

Don’t Overdress, Either

While this isn’t as common with men, some people completely overdress when visiting Europe because they hear stories that Europeans always dress like they’ve just walked off the fashion show runway.

But this just makes you stand out as a rich tourist… which might attract the attention of scammers and pickpockets. Check out my guide to pickpockets in Europe and common tourist scams in Europe to learn more tips.

What To Wear In Europe

Honestly, very few people will care about what you’re wearing so don’t overthink your outfits.

And trying to dress as well as a local (who has access to their closet full of clothing) will only result in you having to haul around a massive heavy suitcase.

That’s why my ultimate goal while traveling is to be put together enough that I don’t look to be a clueless tourist in the eyes of a potential scammer.

Here are a few fashion-related things to consider when choosing what clothing to pack for your trip to Europe:

Cool Sneakers

As I mentioned, a cool pair of comfortable sneakers is a top priority.

I tend to stick with “lifestyle” shoes from New Balance or Nike since they’re popular everywhere, comfortable, and come in multiple color combos.

Low-profile leather sneakers are another nice way to look stylish while staying comfortable. Check out my guide to the best travel shoes for men for a deeper dive into my favorite footwear options.

Well-Fitting Clothes

European city-dwellers tend to wear well-fitting clothes so it doesn’t hurt to follow their lead.

Even something as simple as jeans and a t-shirt/button-up looks nice when it all fits well.

Stick With Neutral Colors For Simplicity

You won’t look out of place by wearing color but it’s easier to stick with darker colors because it hides stains and wrinkles better than brighter colors. And darker colors are easier to match so it makes packing light easier.

That’s why you can’t go wrong with black, gray, dark blues, and other darker earth tones.

Button-Up Shirts

A button-up shirt can be just as comfortable as a t-shirt but they give you the versatility to be dressed up or be worn more casually.

Layer Up For Versatility

A denim jacket or chore coat layered over a casual button-up shirt is an easy and practical way to elevate your style.

A Simple Watch

I’m a big fan of wearing a sensible watch while traveling since it’s easy to lose track of time and I’d rather not rely on always looking at my phone to see the time. If possible, find a watch that shows military/24h time since most of Europe uses a 24-hour clock—especially train schedules, etc.

Basic Daytime & Nighttime Fashion Advice

Daytime & Sight-Seeing Clothing

Comfort is key during the day.

Think about it… you’re going to be surrounded by thousands of other tourists since you’ll most likely be visiting the same tourist sights as everyone else.

And you’ll be walking for miles and miles.

So you want comfortable shoes.

And you want comfortable clothing that isn’t restricting. You also want clothing that fits the season so light and airy during the hot summer and warm/water-resistant in the winter.

Again, I’m not saying you want to look like a slob or a total cliche tourist, but you don’t need to overthink your outfit.

Nighttime Clothing

Feel free to put a little more effort into your outfit when you’re going out at night but there’s no real reason to go overboard unless you’re hitting up super swanky places.

A well-fitted button-up shirt paired with a dark pair of jeans and minimalist leather sneakers is a great nighttime look for 99% of the places you’ll go.

Men’s European Fashion Inspiration Websites

Here are a few websites that will help give you an idea of what many Europeans are wearing/buying.

• Topshop & Topman : British chain of clothing stores that operates in more than 20 countries. Geared toward the “hip” 16-25 crowd.
• Zara : A Spanish retail store that sells fashionable clothes. They’re located all over the world but have a heavy presence in Europe.
• H&M : A Swedish clothing company that is popular all over Europe and in the US. They are known for being fashionable and fairly inexpensive.
• Urban Outfitters : Urban Outfitters has spread across Europe and can be found in many European cities. A lot of the stuff there should work well for many twenty-something travelers.
• Abercrombie : Abercrombie has gone through a rebrand over the last few years and now much of their stuff has a cool American/European urbanite vibe.
• The Sartorialist : An amazing Instagram that features photographs of “real life” European fashion. A lot of this stuff is fashion-forward. None of it is practical for backpacking… but it is interesting to look at and it might give you some inspiration.

Fashionable Travel Clothing

I’ve been a nerd about travel clothes since my first trip to Europe back in 2006—now I have a closet full of travel pants, shirts, underwear, and jackets.

It’s been refreshing to watch travel clothing evolve from hideous outdoorsy gear to stylish clothing made from high-tech fabrics.

Do you need travel clothing? No. But adding a few pieces can be nice. Here’s my guide to the best travel clothing and brands if you want to learn more.

More European Travel Advice From The Savvy Backpacker

Heading to Europe soon? Here are some more helpful articles I’ve written to help you plan your European travels.

• Backpacking Europe Packing List
• The Best Travel Backpacks  and  The Best Travel Backpacks for Women
• Guide To Using Data Plans and Smartphone Phones In Europe
• How To Buy A SIM Card and Mobile Data Plans in Europe
• The Best eSIM Data Plans For Europe
• The Savvy Backpacker’s Guide To Hostels in Europe
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The Best Travel Clothes for Women Inspired by Celebrities Like Katie Holmes and Taylor Swift

Starting at just $12

Versatile Travel Dresses

Flowy pants and maxi skirts, travel tops and breezy blouses.

• Other Travel Clothes You’re Forgetting
• How to Pack

Why Trust PEOPLE?

People / Getty / Gwyneth Paltrow / Instagram

As a travel writer, my suitcase is nearly always half-packed. Long flights demand comfort, but new sights and cities demand style . To complicate matters, I’m a maximalist, so traditional travel advice to cram a small capsule wardrobe into a backpack never quite appeals to me, even if I have to fight the luggage scale when checking in for my flight.

Packing properly for any trip can be daunting, whether you’re throwing together a duffel for a girls’ weekend or filling a checked bag  for a multi-month jaunt all over Europe. Still, my adventures across multiple countries, climates, and time zones taught me to reach for certain staples — like comfortable walking shoes and a reliable crossbody purse — time and time again. While nailing down my perfect travel wardrobe, I turned to on-the-go celebrities like Taylor Swift and Emily Blunt for inspiration. 

A packing list comprised of versatile dresses, flowy pants, maxi skirts, and breezy shirts can go a long way — literally. Read on for the best celeb-inspired travel clothes for women to pack for your upcoming trips, as determined by shopper insights, professional style writers, celebrity research, and more.

Dresses give you plenty of bang for your buck when it comes to traveling. For one, they tend to be flexible compared to other clothing items: You can dress them up or down more effectively to target a specific dress code. Chic maxi dresses reigned supreme last summer, and Meghan Markle recently elevated  that trend in a silky high-neck maxi dress — stylish enough for a formal engagement but breezy enough for an afternoon in the sun.

Dresses of varying lengths also tend to be more conducive to layering. While summer may be “sundress season,” and we see celebs like Gwyneth Paltrow reaching for transitional midi styles in spring, the right travel dress can be an effective staple in your winter wardrobe, too. You can keep the style in your cold-weather repertoire by winterizing the look like Emily Ratajkowski . Opt for a darker colorway, chunky boots, and maybe a sweater. 

Shop any of these styles starting at just $30

The Drop Women’s Britt Tiered Maxi Tent Dress

This tiered maxi dress has an array of 1,900+ perfect five-star ratings on Amazon for its airiness — and rave reviews from multiple PEOPLE writers . It’s such a classic silhouette for all occasions, and it has the most coveted design detail on dresses: pockets. Shoppers do note that there’s little stretch, so consider your bust size when ordering. 

Sizes: XXS–5X | Materials: 100% Tencel Lyocell | Colors: 18

Editors Say

“I bought this maxi dress from The Drop when it was on sale, and I’m going to buy two more at full price — that’s how much I love it. In fact, I have to force myself not to wear it multiple times a week. It’s comfortable, lightweight, and flattering for my short, curvy body. It even has pockets and adjustable straps that can be crossed in the back. The best part, though? I don’t have to wear a bra!” — Kayla Kitts , shopping editor

Linen Roll Tab Dollman Midi Dress

Chico's

An ankle-skimming midi always comes in handy, and a linen fabric is an excellent choice for temperature regulation: cooling in warmer climates yet cozy in cooler ones. This relaxed, button-down frock comes in whimsical watermelon and khaki hues. It even has adjustable, oversized sleeves for added comfort.

Sizes: XS–XL | Materials: 100% linen | Colors: 2

Skinny Strap Seamless Mini Slip

Free People

Free People excels in lightweight, flattering, multi-use dresses. Most pieces in their slip category — like this itty-bitty seamless LBD — can be worn as an undergarment, dress, or top. (Just tuck it in!) Each slip truly compresses down to nothing, making it the ultimate space-saving garment.

Sizes: XS–XL | Materials: 92% nylon, 8% spandex | Colors: 3

Roxy Golden Dawn Dress

Everybody needs a comfortable floral sundress to throw on in warmer climates, especially after a sunburn. Whether you frequent the beach in your travels or just want something soft that wears in well over time, this Roxy pick is built for comfort.

Available Sizes: M, L | Materials: Viscose | Colors: 1

Tencel Jersey Tank Maxi Dress

This Quince pick has a soft, comfy stretch ideal for long days on your feet, and is even made of biodegradable fabric. With six colorways and a  lightweight and sleeveless silhouette, this dress almost guarantees plenty of use.

Sizes: XS–XL | Materials: Tencel, spandex | Colors: 6

People / Getty

The right flowy pants can make the ultimate base layer, whether you’re on a nine-hour flight or dressing to the nines. Loose, roomier pants have been all the rage this year, with celebrities like Jennifer Lawrence , Zendaya , and Emily Blunt all sporting various wide-leg styles.

Similarly, breezy white maxi skirts are majorly on trend right now (and always), stylist Liz Teich told PEOPLE. Just look at Katie Holmes stepping out in NYC. She exemplifies how airy styles can be  great for warmer weather, but still look polished. Plus, the lighter fabrics are literally lighter in your bag, so why not throw in another?

Tronjori High Waist Casual Wide Leg Palazzo Pants

This Amazon pick embodies the quintessential palazzo pant we’ve all bookmarked on Pinterest. The wide leg and high waist are timeless, and the pair comes in a whopping 31 different colorways, plus tall and petite variations.

Sizes: XS–XXL, short and long options | Materials: Polyester | Colors: 31

Hermoza Rachel Skirt Dress

While this one’s more of a splurge, its multifunctionality makes it a worthy all-in-one piece for any vacation. As a frequent traveler and Hawai’i resident, I was absolutely flabbergasted (and fascinated) when I found out this floral maxi skirt/dress hybrid is made of durable swimsuit material.  

Pair it with the matching swimsuit top for a striking two-piece set by the beach, wear it as a vibrant maxi dress to dinner, or style the skirt alone with a gauzy button-down and sandals for a jaunt through town. Of course, I love how convenient it is to wash and dry for travels, too.

Sizes: XS–L | Materials: Polyester, elastane | Colors: 1

Nashalyly Chiffon High-Waisted Pleated Skirt

This shopper-favorite maxi skirt has over 5,000 five-star ratings from Amazon customers, who note that you’ll want to size up for the best fit. Reviewers appreciate the skirt’s easy movement, comfortable elastic waist, and how many outfits they can build with it.

Sizes: S–3XL | Materials: Chiffon | Colors: 44

Daily Practice by Anthropologie Parachute Pants

Anthropologie

These pants are my personal go-to. I wear them to work in, to work out in, and to casual gatherings and nights out with friends. Most crucially, I wear them every single time I pass through an airport. They’re incredibly comfortable, lightweight (I tend to overheat on travel days), and adaptable, with plenty of pockets for easy ID and passport access. I’ve bought them in multiple colors, from neutrals to bolds.

Sizes: XXS–3X plus petite sizing | Materials: Nylon | Colors: 9

Getty Images

Even if you’re wearing the same pair of jeans day in, day out for the duration of your ten-day stint to Australia, Greece, or wherever you’re traveling, the right top can make a similar foundation feel like an entirely different look. First, you’ll want a collection of sleek, basic tanks and tops for ultimate versatility. Or perhaps a nautical, striped button down, ideally summoning visions of boat days and beachside barbecues. (Oh, and easy sun protection.) As Jessica Alba proves with white jeans and coordinating sneakers, the look is seasonal and sophisticated .

And is there anything better than wearing a delicate eyelet blouse on a hot summer day? A breezy blouse can serve as a dressy swimsuit cover-up at the beach. It can also keep your wardrobe work-friendly while on a Zoom meeting across time zones, or give a romantic vibe during date night. 

Wear it loose like Taylor Swift out for a summer walk, or tucked in like Jennifer Aniston at dinner in Paris. Either way, a casual blouse might just be a better companion on your vacation than your plus one.

Wild Fable Cap Sleeve Ruched Side Seam T-Shirt

This pullover top can be styled in a variety of ways, making it a must-have on any trip with limited packing space. The subtle side ruching and cap sleeve add some feminine detail that dress it up for more elevated occasions, but it’s definitely casual enough to rock on a daily basis. As another PEOPLE writer noted , the cap sleeve is an ideal middle ground between a tank and short sleeve — which might be why Jennifer Aniston and Taylor Swift are so fond of the style.

Sizes: XXS–4X | Materials: Recycled polyester, spandex | Colors: 4

H&M Top with Eyelet Embroidery Sleeves

A simple eyelet short-sleeve top can serve you on many occasions, whether jetting off on a day trip or trekking to your regular weekend brunch spot. At only $20, this adorable H&M puff-sleeve is just frothy enough to add a little je ne sais quoi , but has a  French simplicity at its core.

Sizes: XS–XXL | Materials: 100% cotton | Colors: 3

Gap Modern Mock Neck

Deal alert.

This Gap tank is up to 60 percent off in a range of neutral and stripe patterns for a limited time.

There’s never a bad time to stock up on flattering basics like this Gap tank. Available in regular, tall, and petite sizes, this Meghan Markle -esque mock-neck top has a straight silhouette and slim fit, and truly goes with everything .

Sizes: XXS–XXL, in regular, tall, and petite | Materials: 58% cotton, 39% modal, 3% spandex | Colors: 5

AE Perfect Button-Up Shirt

American Eagle

Right now, this American Eagle button-up is 60 percent off in all colors.

Okay, we’ll admit it: We never quite got over the coastal grandmother trend. And why should we? The whole point is that it’s timeless, classic, and elegant whether you’re going all-in on a preppy look or simply throwing on a striped button-down as a cover-up after the beach. This soft, effortless shirt has a slightly oversized fit for extra comfort.

Sizes: XXS–XXL | Materials: 100% cotton | Colors: 8

The Other Travel Clothes You’re Forgetting

Tops? Check. Flowy pants and skirts? Check. Dresses that you can wear out or treat as a cover-up? Practically the daily uniform. Still, there are a few other staples you’ll want to make sure you have on hand, too. It’s an oft-repeated cliché, but layering truly is key.

Levi’s Womens 501 Original Jean Shorts

These Levi’s shorts are currently 40 percent off at Amazon. 

Jean shorts are essential for casual days strolling through a city or impromptu meetups with friends. Throw them on over a sleek swimsuit or break them out in transitional weather. And this isn’t the only Levi’s denim we’re fond of — two of its most popular jeans hold space in our team’s closets, too.

Sizes: 23–39 | Materials: Denim | Colors: 44

AE Long Weekend Crewneck Sweater

This American Eagle Crewneck Sweater is 60 percent off for a limited time.

A layerable neutral sweater is another travel must-have, especially in that frigid airplane air conditioning. Similarly, for those long stretches away from home, an oversized sweater can also be a cuddly comfort for when you’re missing your own bed.

Sizes: XXS–L | Materials: Cotton | Colors: 1

How to Pack the Best Travel Clothes

When building your travel wardrobe, you’ll want to consider factors like trip duration, climate, and more. Do you want year-round items or would you rather commit to rotating your staples seasonally? Will you have access to laundry? (If not, you’ll want to opt for fabrics that wick away odor and sweat so you can get multiple wears out of each item.) Are there sights or situations that have etiquette requirements and dress codes requiring a certain amount of coverage? 

Some personal guidance as a travel expert: Many packing guides might swear by a neutral, minimalist capsule wardrobe for ultimate frequency of wear, but you shouldn’t be afraid to go maximalist either. If you pick comfortable, durable pieces, you’ll still get more use from those “singular” funky outfits than you expect — and your camera roll will thank you for choosing the pieces you actually love most. Similarly, accessories like bold jewelry or belts generally take up very little luggage real estate but go a long way in elevating any look. Might as well add some pizzazz to your Pisa pic, right?

And don’t forget the packing cubes and travel organizers to get the most space out of your carry-on suitcase , either.

Grace Smith is a fashion and travel writer who, as a frequent hotel reviewer, spends as much time as possible floating through various destinations. Long flights (and the resulting OOTDs) are very much her forte. She extensively combed through shopper reviews, expert commentary, and celebrity insights for the top travel clothing items. Looking at the most popular brands and keeping her own globe-trotting experience in mind, Grace curated this list of the best travel clothes for women to pack for all of your 2024 destinations.

Related Articles

10 Best Travel Dresses for Europe – Perfect for Paris!

Dresses , FASHION , Travel Clothing

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Many women love dresses for travel because they offer an all-in-one outfit without the need to mix and match tops and bottoms. In summer, they can be particularly practical keeping you cool in the heat, but not all dresses are made equal.

If you’re headed abroad, take a look at our carefully curated list of dresses that aren’t just pretty, they’ll actually help you stay fresh and cool, too.

Dresses for Traveling Europe

Table of contents.

Despite the fact that I’ve been to various parts of Europe in summer, the heat in certain cities seems to always catch me off guard. 

Rome with a  Halter Neck Summer Dress with Packable Braided Straw Hat

As I’ve trudged through the hilly streets of Lisbon or sweated my way around the ancient sites in Rome, I always cursed myself at the fact that my dresses never seemed to be the right fabric. They were either pretty but not breathable because they were made from polyester or thin but clung to my body because they were made from a jersey blend.

Rome with a Bravissimo Dress and Naot Sabrina Sandals

Below you’ll find a list of the dresses I wish I’d brought on all my past European summer travels. I’ve chosen classic, timeless, versatile styles in the most featherlight fabrics that would be perfect for Paris or just about any other hot summer destination!

What are the best lightweight, comfortable, and stylish dresses for summer in Europe? Here are our favorites!

Shop Sizes XS-XL: Quince

Linen Midi Dress 

You can never go wrong with an LBD for a trip abroad, just make sure it’s in a light, breathable fabric such as this linen dress by Quince , available in sizes XS-XL .

Beautiful yet easy to wear, this is the perfect type of dress to take with you anywhere you go! Wear it with a pair of comfortable yet stylish black sandals for effortless European fashion flair.

Shop Sizes XS-XL : Tommy Bahama  | Bloomingdales

Chambray Midi Dress

Chambray is a lovely neutral fabric that’s elegant yet fresh in hot weather. The above sleeveless chambray midi dress by Tommy Bahama exudes chic casual comfort that you can wear for a summer vacation abroad, a cruise or at a resort, or on a hot day at home, too.

If you’re looking for a chambray dress with sleeves, this cotton wrap dress is a great option too!

Shop Sizes XS-XL on Nordstrom

Long Sleeve Rayon Knee Length Dress 

Cities such as Barcelona and Venice get so hot in the summer so if you prefer sleeves, it’s essential to choose lightweight airy fabrics to keep you from overheating. The Karen Kane Rayon Dress won’t just help you pack carryon only, it will also keep you fresh on those long sightseeing days, too. Pair it with cute and comfortable strappy sandals to finish off your look.

Shop Sizes XS-XXXL: Madewell

Sleeveless Knee Length Dress with Secret Pockets

The button down tiered midi dress is one of a reader’s must haves. If you’re looking for a best dresses with pockets , well this one is for you . It has side pockets with slinky double straps and elegant front panels, this flowy midi dress will be the belle of the ball every single time you wear it.. Available in sizes XS-XXXL .

Pair with comfortable and chic tan sandals as pictured above!

Shop Sizes XS-XL: Michael Stars

Linen Shirt Dress

Whether you’re traveling for business or want to exude a sophisticated look while staying fresh in the heat, this Michael Stars Linen Shirt Dress checks all the boxes. Available in sizes XS–XL . Don’t forget to bring a dual voltage travel steamer if your hotels don’t have an iron.

If you’re looking for a sleeveless shirtdress, here’s a great option too!

Shop Sizes XS-XL: Steve Madden

Sleeveless Tiered Midi Dress

In the heat of summer, navy is the perfect alternative to black clothing and this  airy cotton tiered midi dress by Steve Madden  is as comfy as it is classic. Dress it up with  comfortable low wedges  for outdoor dining in a Parisian cafe or wear it casually with secure slides for a seaside stroll in Dubrovnik. Wear with a  cute, lightweight denim jacket  for cooler days.

Shop Sizes XS-XXL: Amazon

Rayon Wrap Dress

The TFG editor-in-chief Alex has this featherlight Zesica wrap dress in two colors. It’s inexpensive, and the rayon fabric is the best for the summer heat – just the thing to keep you cool for a long day of exploration! It’s a true wrap dress and very flattering on a range of figures. Check the pictures in the reviews! 

Tip: Choose a neutral print for European cities for the most versatility vs. a loud whimsical print, which is better suited for a cruise or beach resort.

If you prefer long dresses, take a look at the maxi version ! I have both!

Shop Sizes XS-4X: Old Navy

Linen Blend Sleeveless Midi Dress 

Love the timelessness of this midi linen dress by Old Navy . It skims the body without being overly fitted yet the structured design keeps it from looking too frumpy. The dress is made of linen and rayon blend to keep you cool but modest. Notched sweetheart neckline with wide straps and smoked back, adds just the right amount of interest to this classic silhouette making it ideal for a trip to Europe in the summer. Available in sizes XS-4X ! 

The bestselling Isha dress is available in short version too!

Short Sleeve Midi Maxi Dress

If you want a bit more coverage for the legs but still have an airy feel, this Quince midi maxi length dress has a fluid tiered silhouette, and a short sleeves make it wearable year-round, with smocked waistband gives it an extra-comfortable fit. So perfect for Europe, wear it during the day with cute and comfortable white sneakers as styled above or take take it out at night with some cushioned, stylish wedges and dangly jewelry. 

This is available in sizes XS-XL !

Shop Sizes XS-3XL: Amazon

Moisture Wicking Short Sleeve Dress

The best balance of form and function is found with the Columbia Freezer Iii Dress . It’s perfect for hot weather because the technical fabric is moisture wicking, lightweight, and breathable, yet it looks like a cute regular dress. Featuring many different colors including the Tiki Pink Waterbrush Print pictured above and other colors here !

TFG editor-in-chief Alex wearing  Navy Blue Wrap Dress in Greece

What shoes should I wear with my dresses?

Naot Sabrina Arch Support Flat Sandals

Pair Summer Dresses with Classic Leather Sandals

When visiting Paris in summer, you’ll want to be comfortable, so be sure to pick shoes that are both practical and fashionable. You can pair any of the above summer dresses with classic leather sandals like these above or even classic Superga style sneakers .

Dress for Europe with stylish and comfortable footwear !

See our list of comfortable walking sandals that are stylish, too!

Taos Footwear Star Sneaker

White Sneakers for Summer Dresses

The canvas leather and removable footbed makes these easy to wash and keep them clean. With a lace-up closure, rubber outsole, and soft textile lining, you can be sure of having a flexible fit with traction for various landscapes. This Taos Footwear Star Sneaker also has a great arch support perfect for walking around.

Halter Dress paired with  Taos Plim Soul Lux Leather Sneakers

One reader shared, “Taos is awesome. They’re comfy and have great support. My feet were never tired after a day in them.” Overall, these Taos sneakers are ranked as the number one seller with our readers!

Find out the top reader recommendations for the best white sneakers !

Thigh Society The Cooling Shorts  | Sizes XS-6X

Shorts to Wear Under Dresses

If your looking for a shorts to wear under your dresses Thigh Society is a reader favorite! The Cooling anti-chafe shorts from ThighSociety  are raved about by TFGers for so many reasons, especially their silky, hi-tech performance fabric. These shorts pull heat and moisture away from the body, keeping things cool, fresh, and chafe-free on even the hottest of days.

They’re tagless, don’t roll or bunch, and are ultra-thin and lightweight yet stretchy and durable as can be. Plus, they come in a wide range of colors and lengths and range in sizes from  XS-6X !

How do I pack my dresses?

Compass Rose Travel Packing Cubes

Packing Cubes

Dresses are the easiest thing to pack for a warm weather trip. If you’re going on a seven-day trip, pack seven dresses and you’re good to go. It’s as easy as that! Then, use slim packing cubes to save space in your suitcase and travel carry-on only.

Learn how millions of women have traveled in a smaller suitcase using packing cubes!

Top Summer Dresses Comparison Chart

What are your recommendations for top summer dresses for a trip abroad? Share in the comments below!

For more tips on what to wear in Paris, please read these posts:

• Ten-Step Packing Guide for Paris
• What to Wear in Paris Packing List
• What to Wear in Paris in Summer
• What to Wear in Paris in Winter
• Paris Travel Essentials
• French Fashion Tips
• What Shoes to Pack for Paris
• Best Luggage for Paris
• What to Pack for Paris Olympics

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If you enjoyed this post on top summer dresses for a trip abroad, please share it with your friends on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest. Thanks for reading!

25 comments.

I was happy to see Thigh Society shorts mentioned. I have 3 pairs in various colours and I never leave home without at least one pair in my carry-on. Perfect under pants and dresses.

Very popular with our community Frieda, thanks for adding on your review!

I have been looking for the perfect dress that I can wash and that will dry overnight. But your idea of taking 7 dresses for 7 days eliminates the need to wash clothes. Great!

Totally love the chambray midi dress for my 2 week trip to England next June! I travel frequently to Beirut to visit family and have used your site so many times to hone my packing list.

Thank you for this dress inspiration and for including different size options. The moisture-wicking one looks perfect for this super hot summer.

Highly recommend Reformation dresses. They’re so cute, come in a million styles and prints, and are airy and easy wearing. I prefer a midi dress and they’ve got the most diverse selection. I’ll be taking at least two on my upcoming trip to Italy.

Thank you for sharing your recommendation with us Katie. 🥰 Have an incredible time in Italy

I agree. I love Reformation dresses and I also love the Somerset dress from Anthropology.

Your posts have been my go to for a long time now! I love the new packing ideas, styles and comfortable clothing/shoes! We travel a lot, so I’m reading your posts regularly. Thank you for what you do! You are making a difference ?

Wow thank you for saying that Amanda, I really appreciate your kind words and I’ll let the team know you feel that way ☺️

You’re welcome Brenda 🙂

Aritzia has gorgeous linen and broderie anglaise dresses.

I wouldn’t have thought to wear dresses a few years ago when I started traveling internationally, but they are a great addition to a travel wardrobe. You only need a few accessories and your packing is done. The red print dress is my favorite, it’s a very versatile design.

Super easy and cute outfits too 🙂

I don’t usually wear dresses, but would like to get one for my upcoming trip to Europe. These suggestions give me a great place to start looking.

I just got back from a trip to Paris, Rome, Venice and Nice. In Paris, I kept seeing women wearing body-skimming (not tight and not overly revealing) knee length dresses with metallic flat sandals or white thick-soled sneakers. I had taken an ankle length dress and I ditched it because it looked so frumpy.

Not long ago, I don’t think I’d be brave enough to take a dress for every day. No shorts? No skirts? What will I do if….. Then I realized there really wasn’t an “if”. They are pack and require minimal matching (always a good thing for a match-a-holic). Thanks for the cool picks–I really like the patterned red one!

I love the idea of the dresses instead of anything else. Recently bought “one for all and all for one” dress that doesn’t wrinkle or shows stains, has a comfy fit and looks good in any situation. I wish there were more dresses like that because this one inspires me to be more feminine while staying comfortable. OMG, and the way it folds: takes less space than my bra. Thank you for the post! I would love to see what you will recommend for winter of fall.

Thanks Julia!

These dress ideas are perfect! I just came back from a trip to Italy in May and my most comfortable outfits were dresses. You feel put together, but they are nice and breezy for the heat. Also took along a pair of those iPanema’s you suggested and they ended up being the shoes I wore most! We were walking close to 7 miles a day and they were comfortable. Keep the great advice coming 🙂

Glad you had a great trip and enjoyed my tips 🙂 Thank you for taking the time to give me feedback.

Leaving for Rome and Germany in two weeks and loved these tips! I see a shopping trip in my future! 🙂

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11 Best Luggage Pieces for International Travel, Tested by Experts

These are the top-tested soft and hardside carry-ons, checked bags, duffels and more to take on your next adventure abroad.

We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.

Best Overall

Samsonite freeform hardside expandable spinner.

Amazon Basics 20-Inch Hardside Spinner

Best Carry-On

Away the carry-on.

Best Checked

Briggs & riley 31-inch baseline extra large expandable spinner.

July Checked Luggage

Best for Frequent Travelers

Travelpro platinum elite softside expandable checked luggage.

Best Budget

Delsey paris helium dlx softside expandable luggage.

Best Rolling Duffel

L.l.bean adventure rolling duffle bag, 135l.

Best Backpack

Cotopaxi allpa 35l travel pack.

Best Weekender

Calpak luka duffel.

As you start planning your next trip abroad, looking into hotels, flights and tourist attractions, don't forget that the key to a smooth travel experience is a great piece of luggage. When you're traveling internationally, it's especially important to bring a suitcase that complies with airline restrictions, is comfortable to carry or roll throughout your journey and has plenty of room for all of your belongings and your souvenirs for the trip home.

This top-performing suitcase from our best overall luggage brand Samsonite has repeatedly stood out in the Textiles Lab's and our consumers' tests and is priced under $200 — an incredible value. The hardside carry-on is made of polypropylene and weighs in at just 6.5 pounds, which is one of the lightest bags we've tested, so it won't eat too much into the lower weight restrictions set by many international airlines.

I was impressed by how easy it was to lift and roll the bag around, even when filled with our standard packing load. Despite the lightweight design, this carry-on is spacious with a butterfly-opening, unfolding into two primary compartments for easy packing, and there's an additional one inch of expandable storage with the pull of a zipper.

During our Lab evaluations, we liked how easy it was to pull the bag through our luggage obstacle course. While some testers said the telescopic handle felt a bit loose, the suitcase earned high scores for maneuverability, with testers sharing feedback including "very smooth rolling" and "the wheels moved really well." The material was more prone to scratching than some others we evaluated, but the suitcase proved to be durable overall in our drop tests, resisting major damage.

Listed dimensions: 21.25" x 15.25" x 10" | Weight: 6.5 lbs | Material: Hardside polypropylene | Expandable: Yes | Returns: Within 30 days, unused

With more than 34,000 five-star ratings, t his best-selling suitcase from Amazon Basics is loved by both real users and our consumer testers who say it's worth every penny. Made of lightweight ABS plastic, the hardside suitcase isn't quite as durable as those made of polycarbonate, but the material helps to keep the cost low — under $100 — so I recommend it for someone shopping on a budget.

During our Textiles Lab evaluations for durability, there were some noticeable markings in our scratch tests, but we were impressed by how well the bag maintained its shape after being released repeatedly from our drop tester. Amazon reviewers who regularly use the suitcases say they hold up over time, as well.

When our consumer testers rolled the suitcase through our obstacle course, they were wowed by how smooth the wheels were, with one describing the bag as "very easy to move." We gave the carry-on high scores for packability, as we were able to pack our standard load of belongings (clothing, accessories and toiletries) for a short trip inside with room to spare. Plus, there are interior zippered mesh pockets for easy organization, and the bag expands up to one extra inch for additional packing space.

Listed dimensions: 22" x 14.9" x 10" | Weight: 7.3 lbs | Material: Hardside ABS plastic | Expandable: Yes | Returns: Within 30 days, unused

One of the most popular suitcases on the market, Away's standard carry-on is definitely worth the hype . The bag is available in 11 colors, including on-trend options like green and red, along with neutral hues like gray and black.

Not only is the suitcase simple and stylish from the outside, it's also full of functional features inside to make packing for your next international trip a breeze. The bag unfolds into two separate primary compartments to fit all of your things: one fully zippered side and one with adjustable compression straps, and there are mesh pockets to stash smaller items.

Consumer testers and GH analysts alike love to travel with the Away carry-on, including one who shared, "It fit all of the clothes I needed for a long weekend. It rolled really easily and was light enough to pop in and out of the overhead bin." Testers said the telescopic handle felt flimsier than others they tried, but they were impressed with the bag overall, saying that it was easy to maneuver and roll over different types of flooring, including wood, carpet and tile. And it looked great after our drop and scratch tests, showing no major signs of damage or dents.

Listed dimensions: 9" x 13.7" x 21.7" | Weight: 8.1 lbs | Material: Hardside polycarbonate | Expandable: No | Returns: Within 100 days, unused

Briggs & Riley 31-inch Baseline Extra Large Expandable Spinner

The innovative design details of this softside checked bag from Briggs & Riley help to simplify packing for extended trips abroad. The bag features a unique push-button expansion system unlike any other we've evaluated , which allows you to easily expand the bag, fill it with everything you'll need and then compress it back down to its standard size.

One tester who was impressed with the amount of space in the carry-on version of the bag shared, "It fit clothing and accessories for two people for a seven-day summer vacation." And this checked bag offers more than double the packing capacity. Other innovative features include a built-in trifold garment folder for formal attire and reinforced corners for added protection.

At 15.6 pounds, the suitcase does weigh more than other models we've evaluated, but it is made with a nylon material that resisted wear and tear when I tested it in our abrasion machine. It also earned top marks in our latest round of drop testing. Along with performing well for durability, the suitcase received high scores for maneuverability, with smooth wheels and a sturdy telescopic handle.

Listed dimensions: 31" x 22" x 13.8" | Weight: 15.6 lbs | Material: Softside nylon | Expandable: Yes | Returns: Within 30 days, unused

Rolling a bag through the airport has never been easier than it is with July's classic luggage , including this spacious checked suitcase and its popular carry-on bags . One GH analyst who took the checked bag on a vacation abroad said, "I've never used a suitcase with wheels this smooth." I've personally traveled with luggage from the brand and was blown away by how effortless it was to roll the suitcases, even over carpet and concrete sidewalks.

The telescopic handle technically locks at 20 different heights to prevent it from falling down on its own, and most testers appreciated the slanted grip on the handle, sharing that it was comfortable to hold and easy to maneuver with.

Made with a polycarbonate shell, the suitcase is lightweight and durable, and the corners are reinforced with aluminum bumpers for an added level of protection. The bag held up well after being released repeatedly from our drop tester, but testers noted marks and scuffs on the surface after taking the bag on just one trip.

It boasts 80 liters of packing space and features one fully zippered compartment and one open compartment with a compression panel and Y-strap for security. Even more, it weighs just 8.3 pounds, which is similar to many of the carry-on sized bags we evaluate.

Listed dimensions: 26" x 18.75" x 11" | Weight: 8.3 lbs | Material: Hardside polycarbonate with aluminum corners | Expandable: No | Returns: Within 100 days, unused

Travelpro luggage was created by a pilot who wanted to make bags specifically for other pilots and airline crewmembers who were always on the go. The result is a collection of highly durable, quality suitcases including the popular Platinum Elite medium checked suitcase.

Built to last, the luggage is made of heavyweight nylon material that performed well when I tested it for abrasion resistance. When I released the bag repeatedly from our drop tester, it showed no signs of damage or dents. Our testers also gave the suitcase high scores for ease of use and appreciated the sturdy feel of the telescopic handle. The suitcase does have a more traditional look, though, which some testers described as "old-fashioned," sharing that they wished it were sleeker.

Full of thoughtful and functional features, the suitcase makes packing and traveling a breeze. The bag can be unzipped to reveal one large packing compartment with compression panels that secure your belongings in place, a removable wet bag for toiletries, a large mesh zippered pocket in the lid for breathable storage and a built-in suiter to help keep more formal clothes in tip-top shape. To prevent the suitcase from tipping over when it's full, it's also designed with a unique tapered expansion system, so the bag is narrower at the top and broader at the bottom.

Listed dimensions: 25" x 18" x 11.25" | Weight: 9.8 lbs | Material: Softside nylon | Expandable: Yes | Returns: Within 30 days, unused

While some softside luggage is bulky and pricey, this Helium DLX carry-on from Delsey is lightweight, as the name implies, and it's available for a great value. The polyester material isn't quite as durable or substantial as nylon styles we've tested, but the brand's polyester fabric has performed well overall in our abrasion tests without major wear.

Two external zippered pockets allow for easy access to travel essentials like your phone and ID, so you won't have to hold up the TSA line while scouring through your bag. While the bag unzips to expose only one main compartment for packing, it's equipped with a removable bi-fold organizer and expands by two inches for additional room. One tester said, "I love the pockets." Plus, the inner lining can be fully unzipped and removed for easy cleaning.

I personally carry luggage from Delsey and love the smooth wheels and sturdy telescopic handle, and our testers who tried Delsey's luggage found the handle to be comfortable to grip and use. However, they said the bags were more difficult to maneuver through our obstacle course than others they tested.

Listed dimensions: 12" x 17.75" x 28" | Weight: 8.4 lbs | Material: Softside polyester | Expandable: Yes | Returns: Within 30 days, unused

A rolling duffel like this one from L.L.Bean is ideal for longer adventures abroad or for overpackers like me. The duffel isn't as structured as standard suitcases, meaning you can compress it and slide it under your bed or in a closet if you're pressed for storage space — and on the other hand, you can really fill it to the brim when you're packing. Just be careful that you're not stuffing it too much because it can be easy to exceed an airline's weight restrictions.

One GH analyst who loves to travel with this bag said that it's one of her go-to picks for family vacations. With just two wheels, our analyst said it's a little more cumbersome to maneuver than a spinner suitcase, but you also have the option to carry the bag with the padded strap.

The bag has a wide opening for easy access to everything you need inside, and outer compression straps keep everything in place. Made of durable polyester material with a reinforced base, the duffel lasts for years and years without signs of wear, according to our analyst. Plus, it's water-resistant inside and out — perfect for inevitable leaks or wet weather. If you're looking for something smaller, the brand carries a variety of sizes to meet your travel needs.

Listed dimensions: 14" x 17.25" x 32.5" | Weight: 8.8 lbs | Material: Softside polyester | Expandable: No | Returns: Within 1 year

When we evaluated this bag in the Textiles Lab, we were amazed by just how much we could fit inside during our packing tests. Not only did it beat out other travel backpacks we tested, it also outperformed some of our carry-ons because of its spacious interior .

The backpack has a suitcase-style opening and fully unzips to expose a highly organized interior jam-packed with zippered mesh pockets for all of your belongings. It also features a padded laptop sleeve that fits up to a 17-inch computer.

Made of recycled nylon and polyester, the bag is durable and water-resistant. When I tested it for abrasion resistance in the Lab, there were no visible signs of wear. Details like a sternum strap, waist belt and padded mesh provide comfort and support. With backpack straps that tuck neatly inside the back of the bag and carrying straps on all sides, you can easily grab it to lift into an overhead bin.

Some online reviewers wished it was equipped with a water bottle holder and said the zippers can be finicky, but we didn't have issues with them in the Lab.

Listed dimensions: 22" x 12" x 10" | Weight: 3.5 lbs | Material: Softside polyester and nylon | Expandable: No | Returns: Within 30 days, unused

Able to hold everything you need for a weekend getaway, this weekender from Calpak was the top performer in our Textiles Lab tests. Not only is the bag totally on-trend, thanks to the puffy padded design and fashionable color options, it's also full of functional features . One tester who used it as her personal item on a long trip said, "This bag fits everything I need and more!"

A GH analyst who used the bag added, "I appreciate the well-organized interior," which includes several zippered pockets and elastic storage. Outside, there's a separate shoe compartment, additional zippered pockets and a water bottle holder. Altogether, there are nine pockets, and the spacious bag aced our packing tests.

If you're pairing it with Calpak's popular luggage , this bag has a trolley sleeve that slides right over the telescopic handle of your suitcase. One tester noted that the stitching that secured the sleeve in place started unraveling a bit after just one use. The bag is made of a smooth polyester material that's comfortable to carry and water-resistant. A tester said, "It poured while I was traveling and everything inside this bag stayed perfectly dry."

Listed dimensions: 12" x 16" x 7" | Weight: 2 lbs | Material: Softside polyester | Expandable: No | Returns: Within 30 days, unused

Eagle Creek Cargo Hauler 40L Duffel Bag

This convertible duffel from Eagle Creek is the perfect adventure travel companion. The bag is durable, combining polyester and nylon for a water-resistant material that also held up well when tested for abrasion resistance . One GH analyst who travels with this duffel said that it still looks great after years of regular rough and tough use.

It's structured and maintains its shape for easy packing, but the duffel can be compressed to bring inside of your suitcase as an extra bag or for compact storage at home. According to our testers and GH analyst, the zippers have large pull tabs that are easy to use, and, according to the brand, they're covered in water-resistant strips for the ultimate protection in wet weather.

The duffel features a reinforced top handle and grab handles along the sides for carrying, and there are adjustable backpack straps for hands-free use that can be connected for an additional carrying strap or tucked inside the bag. Some online reviewers said the backpack straps are on the thinner side and weren't as comfortable as other traditional travel backpacks, but they appreciated the convenient option.

Listed dimensions: 11.5" x 23.25" x 11" | Weight: 2.5 lbs | Material: Softside polyester and nylon | Expandable: No | Returns: Within 30 days, unused

Amanda (she/her) researches and reports on products in the Good Housekeeping Institute 's Textiles, Paper & Apparel Lab, ranging from clothing and accessories to home furnishings. She holds undergraduate degrees in apparel merchandising and product development and advertising and marketing communications, as well as a master of science degree in consumer sciences from The Ohio State University. Prior to joining Good Housekeeping in 2022, Amanda was a lecturer for the fashion and retail studies program at Ohio State, where she taught fashion and textiles courses.

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Decoding Europe’s Train Tickets: A Guide to Budget-Friendly Journeys

T here’s nowhere else in the world where you can jump on a train and be in another country within minutes. Europe is a continent where you can have a morning coffee in Brussels and sit in a Parisian cafe overlooking the Seine for lunch. As a person who grew up in a vast country (Australia), I have always found the concept of country-hopping novel. Here’s why you should consider train tickets for your next visit to Europe.

Why Train Tickets Are a Great Way To See Europe

From the moment I wanted to travel, I started looking into the best way to go about it, and one of the first things I saw was Eurorail. The idea is simple—one fare and you can travel on any train within Europe. It sounds convenient and straightforward until you know the price. One of my first thoughts was, “Surely, there has to be a better way. Surely, this isn’t what people in Europe pay to travel.”

The Basics of European Train Ticketing Systems

Each country in Europe operates its own unique train ticketing system. Travelers can save a significant amount of money by comparing the cost of individual tickets to the options available with Eurail passes. Various factors influence ticket prices, but with flexible plans and early booking, you can bypass expensive ticketing systems and secure more budget-friendly fares.

Most countries have easy-to-use online ticketing systems. It’s just a matter of doing a Google search for the place you’re traveling to. For example, you’ll find Spain’s railway system is called  Renfe . Finding the right operator is essential for optimal savings, as each country’s train operator offers discounted fares for early bookings. For example, booking a Brussels to Paris train ticket through the RailEurope site costs from USD 55 for a one-way ticket and the same on SNCB International, but you’ll be paying a USD 9.50 booking fee on RailEurope.  

Other Factors To Consider

The European train ticketing system varies based on the type of train and the country you’re traveling in. Buying train tickets directly at the station is usually convenient for local, regional, and suburban trains since prices are fixed, and reservations are not typically required. However, fares operate similarly to airlines with dynamic pricing for long-distance trains in countries like France, Italy, Spain, and others. 

Booking in advance can offer significant savings, but tickets have specific terms like limited refunds or changes. Traditional ticketing methods apply in countries like the UK, Germany, and Austria, with flexible and advance-purchase options available, each with its pricing and reservation rules. Understanding these nuances, including booking options, stopover policies, and special fare considerations like senior or youth discounts, is essential to navigating the system effectively and securing the best travel deals.

15 Best Books To Read Before Visiting Europe

When to use eurail.

If you take our Brussels to Paris example from above, you’d be paying $141 if you bought a Eurail pass for the same trip plus seat reservation fees. Eurail does have its advantages, though. If you plan on traveling frequently during your trip, the pass may be worth it. For example, if you plan on visiting six destinations over a month, a Global Pass will cost you $391 and allow you seven days of unlimited travel. If you plan on more than seven days of train travel, you can get an unlimited pass for a month, costing $991. 

With Eurail, you can choose your travel days within a specified period, freeing you from rigid dates and allowing for plan adjustments. Additionally, the ease of booking and modifying your itinerary through online platforms and mobile apps streamline your travel planning. Moreover, certain Eurail passes offer extra benefits like discounted or complimentary access to attractions, ferry routes, or buses, further enriching your journey with additional options.

Remember you can also use your Eurail pass for train tickets within one country, but it is only available for some forms of transport. For example, you can use the London Overground in the UK, but not the Underground. If you have the time, do some research and see what your options are. If the Underground seems like your best choice to get to places you want to visit, Eurail isn’t for you.

Understanding Fare Classes and Seat Reservations

Some trains offer multiple fare classes, each with its amenities and pricing. Additionally, understanding when seat reservations are mandatory versus optional helps travelers plan better. For instance, while regional trains may not require reservations, high-speed or intercity trains in countries like France and Spain often do, sometimes at an additional cost.

On trains such as Eurostar, which travels through the UK, Belgium, France, the Netherlands, and Germany, you’ll have an option for first and second-class seating. Sometimes, the price difference might not be a lot; if that’s the case, opt for first class—it provides seats offering additional space and amenities, which may even encompass complimentary food and beverages.

Seasonal Considerations

Seasonal fluctuations impact train tickets and their prices across Europe. High tourist seasons, such as summer or significant holidays, often increase demand, leading to higher prices. Conversely, traveling during off-peak seasons can result in more affordable fares. Being flexible with travel dates or opting for shoulder seasons can be an intelligent strategy for budget-conscious travelers.

Loyalty Programs and Rail Passes

Some European countries offer loyalty programs or discount cards that provide perks like reduced fares, lounge access, or priority boarding. While it might seem strange to join a loyalty program when you’re only going to be in a place for two weeks, joining up can sometimes have benefits. Exploring these options could lead to substantial savings for frequent travelers or those planning an extended European stay. Similarly, aside from Eurail, consider other regional rail passes tailored to specific countries or regions, such as France’s SNCF pass or Italy’s Trenitalia offerings, which might offer better value depending on your itinerary.

Navigating Language and Currency Differences

Many European train ticketing platforms offer English translations. If they don’t, you can ask Google to translate the page for you—right-click on the page and choose “Translate to English” from the drop-down list. Additionally, being aware of currency conversion rates and potential foreign transaction fees when booking from abroad ensures you get the best value for your money. At the moment, there’s not a massive difference between Euros and US Dollars; however, it’s still worth converting the fares to your local currency.

Benefits of Train Travel Over Air Travel

Trains are more environmentally friendly than airplanes or cars on a per-passenger basis, making them a greener option for those concerned about sustainability while touring Europe. A standout benefit of Europe’s rail system is the efficient boarding process. Unlike airports where you might arrive hours in advance for baggage checks and security screenings if your train departure is at 9 am, you can typically arrive closer to that time without extensive waiting or security procedures. While some countries implement a simple luggage scan, others may have minimal to no security checks, streamlining your travel experience.

So, when considering your options to travel between European countries, consider grabbing train tickets and embarking on an unforgettable journey through Europe’s rail network, where convenience, affordability, and sustainability harmoniously converge. Whether indulging in a morning coffee in Brussels or immersing yourself in the scenic beauty along the Seine, the experience transcends mere transportation.

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These Packable Dresses Are Perfect for Travel

Expert picks that are as practical and comfortable as they are stylish.

In This Article

• Our Top Picks
• Tips for Buying
• Why Trust T+L

Travel + Leisure / Alli Waataja

The secret to packing efficiently is to choose versatile clothing that can be worn over and over again. My top tip when heading somewhere warm? Don’t underestimate the power of a good travel dress. When backpacking for seven months around South East Asia, a dress was often the easiest choice for dressing quickly for the next adventure, whether that was sampling street food at a local night market or exploring offshore islands in a sea kayak. Choose easy-wearing, long-lasting fabrics and styles that can be dressed up or down and those that can offer a totally new look when layered under a T-shirt or sweater. By maximizing versatility, you will find your packing list dwindles quickly. 

In this article, I explore some of my personal favorite travel dresses along with others recommended by Travel + Leisure editors. We’ve focused on seasonal, summery picks to suit all tastes and budgets, often with special travel-friendly features ranging from pockets to built-in shorts.

Best Overall

Beyond yoga featherweight at the ready square neck dress.

Beyond Yoga

This dress goes with anything and is as comfortable as sweatpants. Plus, it's universally flattering.

Sizing is fairly limited and only goes up to XL.

When choosing a dress for travel, I’ve found that simple is best — and you can’t get simpler than the Beyond Yoga Featherweight At The Ready Square Neck Dress. It doesn’t have zips or buttons; instead, it’s made from a gorgeously soft, wrinkle-resistant polyester and spandex blend that enables you to simply pull it on and go. The material is lightweight and moisture wicking, making it ideal for warmer climates. At the same time, the dress looks just as good when paired with boots and a cardigan as it does with flip-flops (daytime) or heels (evening). It is the ultimate one-stop wardrobe staple for all occasions. 

I like the midi length, too. You can explore comfortably without worrying about accidental exposure, and if you pair it with a wrap or shawl, it’s even suitable to wear when touring historic or religious sites in countries with a more conservative culture. Despite its longer length, the dress is still subtly sexy with a square neckline, fitted bodice and flirty, flowing skirt. The loose fit of the latter combined with the fabric’s four-way stretch equals unrivaled freedom of movement. Finally, the dress offers my favorite travel feature: two invisible pockets. Core colors include darkest night, silver mist, and nocturnal navy. 

The Details: XS to XL | 94 percent polyester, 6 percent spandex

Best Sleeveless

Lululemon all aligned ribbed midi dress.

This cool, summer-ready dress can be dressed up or down for any occasion.

It’s only available in a limited choice of solid, neutral shades.

Sleeveless dresses are the ideal choice for keeping cool on a tropical vacation. The Lululemon All Aligned Ribbed Midi Dress takes a sleek and sophisticated approach to the style with a slim fit and flattering midi length. Depending on the shoes you choose and how you accessorize it, it’s a versatile pick that can be adapted for anything from a casual sightseeing tour to a night out at the bar. Neutral colors including taupetastic, oasis blue, bone, and black support this all-occasion flexibility. 

The buttery soft, ribbed Nulu fabric (a blend of nylon and Lycra) is both sweat-wicking and quick-drying for comfort in humid climates. Meanwhile, the added Lycra fibers provide superior four-way stretch and impressive shape retention. A slit up the back of the dress makes it easy to move without feeling restricted and also adds visual interest. I particularly appreciate that the dress can be machine washed and dried for convenient maintenance on the go. 

The Details: 0 to 14 | 78 percent nylon, 22 percent Lycra

Best Long-sleeve

Free people feeling groovy maxi dress.

Free People

This dress offers full-length, long-sleeved coverage without being too hot for summer.

It’s deliberately oversized, so consider sizing down for a more fitted look.

From personal style preference to local modesty laws, there are plenty of reasons to buy a long-sleeve travel dress. I love the Free People Feeling Groovy Maxi Dress because (unlike many long-sleeve options) it’s cool enough to be comfortable on hot days while also lending itself to layering in colder weather. With a choice of kaleidoscopic floral prints and a billowing A-line cut, this dress embodies '60s-inspired chic. 

The maxi length provides full coverage for your legs, too, with tiered detailing in the skirt to add interest. The fit is deliberately oversized, which makes the dress comfortable, breathable, and forgiving for all body shapes — I would even recommend it as a stylish solution for traveling moms-to-be. Worried about it looking a little too unstructured? Cinched, cuffed sleeves and a tie-detail V-neck stop the dress from being frumpy. The polyester fabric is wrinkle-resistant and travels well.

The Details: XS to XL | 100 percent polyester, with a viscose lining

Best With Pockets

Foreign fare wrap me up dress.

Foreign Fare

With the rare addition of a hidden zippered pocket, this dress is the ultimate pick for those that like to keep their valuables close.

Size down to avoid excessive fabric when wrapped tightly.

Pockets are an invaluable addition to any travel dress, allowing you to keep your essentials handy without carrying a purse everywhere you go. One of our editors owns the Foreign Fare Wrap Me Up Dress and loves how it offers not only dual side pockets but also a third, hidden zippered pocket big enough for your passport or a card and emergency cash. This is especially great if you’re headed to a destination where petty theft is a concern. 

The dress is as elegant as it is practical, with a flattering silhouette that hits at knee length and cinches at the waist. The wrap style makes it fully adjustable to your body shape, with a V-neck and a sash that ties at the hip in an oversized bow meant to accentuate curves. Dress it up or down: either way, the soft, breathable tencel and polyester blend is designed for comfort. It’s also machine washable and wrinkle resistant. Choose yours in black or hunter green. 

The Details: XS to 2XL | 85 percent tencel, 15 percent polyester

Best With Shorts

Halara breezeful flowy dress.

This is a flattering, feminine dress with a two-piece design for everyday practicality.

It shouldn’t be tumble dried, so you’ll need space in your hotel room or vacation rental to hang it up.

Remember the skorts you used to wear in gym class? The Halara Breezeful Flowy Dress offers all of the same practical convenience — with a serious design upgrade. The matching shorts prevent accidental flashing whether you’re climbing up a Florentine bell tower or performing cartwheels on a beach in French Polynesia. But unlike other brands, they’re entirely separate which makes going to the bathroom a lot quicker and less awkward. 

They even have an integrated side pocket perfect for stashing your ID or credit card. Meanwhile, the dress is both sexy and sophisticated with a backless cut, a flowing, asymmetric hem, and a U-shaped neckline. Larger-chested ladies will appreciate the added support afforded by adjustable straps and removable breast pads; while the polyester and elastane fabric scores points for breathability, elasticity, and effective sweat wicking. Finally, I love the diverse choice of colors from versatile ghost gray or patriot blue to show-stopping flamingo. 

The Details: XS to 3X | 85 percent polyester, 15 percent elastane

Best Short-sleeve

Boden amelie print jersey dress.

This dress flows well and comes in a wide range of vacation-ready patterns and colors.

When choosing a size, bear in mind that this style runs a little small.

Growing up in the UK, I have associated British brand Boden with quality since my gran used to buy dresses for me from their children’s catalog. The Amelie Print Jersey Dress offers the same experience for grownups, with its soft, comfortable fabric that drapes beautifully for a flattering look. It’s fitted through the bust with a ruched waist that shows off your figure. In contrast, the skirt is full and hits just above the knee for unrestricted freedom of movement. 

The dress’s shorter length and sleeves make it ideal for summer trips. And, whether you’re headed to the beach or to one of the world’s cultural capitals, an array of jewel-toned prints adds a touch of fun to your travel wardrobe. Choices range from flame scarlet floral mosaic to green tambourine shells, with polka dots, geometric patterns, and even a few solid shades to cater to every style preference. Side pockets, inclusive sizing, and the ability to throw the dress in the washing machine complete its list of attributes. 

The Details: 2 to 20/22 | 95 percent viscose, 5 percent elastane

Best Athleisure

Beyond yoga spacedye movement dress.

This dress is made for active outdoor adventures from extra-stretchy, sweat-wicking fabric that protects from the sun’s harmful rays.

An integrated bodysuit means you’ll have to take the dress most of the way off to go to the bathroom.

Planning an active vacation with plenty of tennis, hiking, or yoga? The Beyond Yoga Spacedye Movement Dress offers you all the freedom of movement you need to perform at your best. Inspired by the classic tennis dress style, it features wide, comfortable shoulder straps and a deep V-shaped neckline in the front and back. The flirty, flared skirt flows beautifully but also protects your modesty with a built-in bodysuit. 

The top of the bodysuit functions as a supportive sports bra while the shorts feature a slip-in pocket big enough for your smartphone and cards. I wore a similar dress (now discontinued) on a backpacking trip around Thailand and expect this one to be equally ideal for everything from keeping valuables close on market tours to hopping on the back of a motorbike taxi. The polyester and elastane blend is moisture-wicking and extra-stretchy, with UV protection for sunny days and the ability to emerge from your suitcase wrinkle-free.

The Details: XS to XL | 87 percent polyester, 13 percent elastane

Best Sweat-wicking

Vuori pose sands dress.

Made from a breathable blend of modal rayon and elastane, this is the ideal dress for keeping cool in hot countries.

Color choices are limited to black or oregano (olive green).

The Vuori Pose Sands Dress features a super soft stretch rib knit formulated from a blend of modal rayon and elastane. The modal rayon offers moisture-wicking properties to keep you cool and dry no matter how hot it is outside. It also resists shrinking and pilling to maximize the dress’ longevity. The dress’s sleeveless cut reinforces its status as a solid summer choice, creating enough ventilation to keep sweating to a minimum. 

The addition of elastane ensures the dress fits snugly in all the right places. I love the freedom of movement afforded by the four-way stretch fabric and the exaggerated side split. Like all good travel dresses, this one is very versatile. Its form-fitting, midi length looks good on its own but also pairs well with a sweater for a skirt aesthetic. Meanwhile, the high neck lends an air of evening-appropriate sophistication if paired with formal shoes and accessories. 

The Details: XXS to XXL | 87 percent modal rayon, 13 percent elastane

Anrabess Short Sleeve Maxi Dress

This is the perfect casual maxi for everyday comfort, whether you’re walking around town or heading to the beach.

The dress should be hand washed and hung out to dry, which may make it inconvenient for some vacation setups.

Imagine lengthening your favorite T-shirt to create a maxi dress with the same level of worn-in comfort. Enter this affordable choice from Anrabess with its short sleeves, crew neck, and rounded, double-split hem. The fabric blends polyester, rayon, and spandex for just the right balance of softness and stretch; while the deliberately oversized fit allows for maximum ventilation and breathability. 

I love hassle-free dresses like this one for traveling, because they make getting ready for the day as easy as pulling the dress on and slipping into a pair of flip-flops. And while it’s probably not dressy enough for smart occasions, it’s ideal for throwing on over a bikini when it’s time to migrate from the beach to the gelato shop. Hidden seam pockets add functionality, while all tastes are catered to with a rainbow of solid and floral-patterned colorways. 

The Details: S to XXL | 60 percent polyester, 35 percent rayon, 5 percent spandex

Best Utility

Zella in flight utility dress.

Proper pockets, four-way stretch, and machine washable fabric make this my top pick for practical adventurers.

It’s not the most versatile option for colder weather.

If, like me, you often find yourself reaching for shorts instead of a dress from a practicality point of view, consider changing things up with the In Flight Utility Dress from Zella. It offers the same sporty aesthetic and adventure-ready design features as your go-to shorts in stylish utility dress form. Made from a polyester and spandex blend, it wicks moisture to keep you dry no matter how active you are. Four-way stretch and a sleeveless cut maximize flexibility. 

Similarly, the mid-thigh length offers complete freedom of movement without having to wear anything underneath. Getting the dress on and off couldn’t be easier thanks to a partial zip located on the front, while a drawcord waist allows you to customize the fit to be as relaxed or as cinched as you like. Finally, the front pockets are decently sized with space for everything from your smartphone to your passport. Safari-chic colors include tan thread and olive night.  

The Details: XXS to XXL | 89 percent polyester, 11 percent spandex

Best for Hiking

Rei co-op trailmade dress.

With UPF protection, quick-drying fabric, and nature-inspired colorways, this dress is made with the trail in mind.

The torso is relatively short, which may make it an awkward fit for taller women.

Available in dark green or khaki, the REI Co-op Trailmade Dress is designed to blend in perfectly on hiking or wildlife-spotting vacations. It’s short-sleeved and ends just above the knee for warm-weather compatibility and maximum freedom of movement. Meanwhile, the fabric is a nylon and spandex blend that wicks moisture, dries quickly, and offers UPF 50+ sun protection. Two-way stretch adds to your ability to stride or scramble freely. 

As practical as this dress is, I also love its old-school safari aesthetic. Designed to flatter all body types, it offers a torso-lengthening collared V-neck and an elastic waistband that can be tailored to your curves using the bungee adjustment. Of course, no outdoor adventure dress would be complete without pockets, and this one not only offers two drop-in hand pockets but also a hidden, zippered pocket to guard against theft or loss. 

The Details: XS to 3X | 94 percent nylon, 6 percent spandex

Quince 100 Percent European Linen Smocked Midi Dress

This dress looks good everywhere, whether you’re slipping it over a bikini at the beach or dressing it up for a day at the office.

Sizes are fairly limited, running from XS to XL only.

Crafted from pure European linen for eco-friendly, hard-wearing breathability, the Smocked Midi Dress from Quince is a travel staple for one of our editors. She loves it for its versatility, and has worn it for everything from plane rides to exploring new cities, as a beach cover-up and even to work. She says that it matches with just about anything and looks equally good dressed up with wedges or styled with sneakers for a more casual vibe. 

The smocked bust and waist are fitted while still leaving room to breathe, making the dress comfortable for all-day, everyday wear. Wide straps and a square neckline pair with a tiered, midi-length skirt to create a whimsical aesthetic that will look great in your travel photos. Colors range from classic black to summery pale pink or blue pinstripe.  

The Details: XS to XL | 100 percent linen

Best Cotton

Kahora palm beach joanna dress.

Kahora Palm Beach

This is a beautiful dress with elevated details including bell sleeves and a flounced skirt.

It must be hand washed and hung out to dry, which isn’t always easy when traveling.

The Kahora Palm Beach Joanna Dress is fashioned from 100 percent cotton, making it lightweight, soft, breathable, and naturally hypoallergenic. Quality cotton is also durable, so the dress’s significant price tag can be justified by the fact that it will last for many years. It’s a firm favorite for another of our editors, who finds it the perfect solution for airy summer comfort. 

She says it’s easy to toss on for an effortless look and loves the flattering silhouette created by the bell sleeves, flounced skirt, and adjustable tie waist. She chose the blue dahlia print and received many compliments for it on vacation in Greece. It’s understated and elegant while still offering a pop of color and dimension. There are a variety of other nostalgic, mostly floral patterns and colors to choose from, all with shell buttons and a removable sash. 

The Details: XS to XL | 100 percent cotton

Most Versatile

Daily practice by anthropologie mock-neck ruched midi dress.

Anthropologie

This dress pairs the comfort of lightweight sweatshirt material with an elegant, close-fitting silhouette.

There’s only one color available.

The Mock-Neck Ruched Midi Dress from Anthropologie is a top pick for anyone who likes to minimize their packing list by choosing versatile clothes that can be adapted to any travel scenario. With its figure-hugging, sleeveless cut, high mock neck, and just-above-the-ankle midi length, the dress can be styled for just about anything from summer beach days to shoulder season work trips. 

It can be modest or sexy, formal or casual, cozy or cool. I especially love the inclusion of a thigh-high slit and ruched side seam; together, these elements add visual interest while also allowing for full flexibility and a forgiving fit. Despite the sleek silhouette, you can sit or stretch easily and curves are accommodated (and flattered) comfortably. The dress is machine washable and comes in one color: timeless, infinitely versatile black. 

The Details: XS to XL | 69 percent viscose, 16 percent cotton, 11 percent polyester, 4 percent elastane

Tips for Buying Travel Dresses

Look for travel-friendly features.

What makes a dress travel-friendly? Comfortable, durable fabrics and practical features that make it easier to explore your destination in style. In terms of material, look for fabrics like polyester or modal that are breathable, moisture-wicking, and easy to pack with minimal effort. They should resist wrinkles and fold or roll compactly so as not to take up too much space. 

In terms of features, I’m a big fan of pockets with the top prize reserved for hidden or zippered ones that allow you to keep your valuables close and under the radar. For shorter or asymmetric dresses, a built-in bodysuit or shorts are a lifesaver on active tours since you won’t have to spend half your time worrying about whether you’re sufficiently covered up.

Prioritize versatility

One of the great advantages of packing dresses for your summer trips is that they’re an outfit all by themselves (packing one dress is easier and takes up less space than packing separate tops and bottoms). But, to maximize versatility and ensure you don’t look the same in all your travel photos, it’s a good idea to choose dresses that can be accessorized to suit various occasions. 

I’m talking dresses that look as good with a jean jacket and sneakers as they do with heels and a formal wrap; and dresses that can be layered with a sweater or T-shirt to look like a skirt for a totally different vibe. And although I love a colorful print, neutral shades are best if you’re aiming for a capsule piece that pairs well with anything.

Frequently Asked Questions

Travel dresses should be easy to fold and pack. The best way to do so to avoid wrinkles and save space is to place the dress on a hard, flat surface with the front facing upward. Then, fold the dress in half vertically so that the two halves match up. Fold the arms backwards over the body of the dress to create a long, neat rectangle. Next, fold the dress horizontally so that the bottom hem is an inch or so below the collar. Roll tightly from the bottom up until you have a neat cylinder.

Alternatively if you’re traveling with a formal dress for a specific event, pack everything else first to create a flat layer. Lay the dress on top of a plastic garment bag or tissue paper and use as few folds as possible to make it fit flat, at the top of the suitcase. Add another garment bag or layer of tissue paper on top to prevent wrinkles.

A good travel dress should be versatile enough for everyday use, helping you to reduce your packing list. Therefore, the fabrics need to be hard-wearing and comfortable. Polyester, viscose, and modal are all popular options that fulfill both of these requirements while offering the added benefit of wicking moisture and resisting wrinkles. The latter is especially important because not all vacation rentals or hotel rooms offer an iron. Linen is another great choice for summer since it's naturally breathable and cool. However, it does wrinkle if not packed carefully. If you’re likely to wear your dress for active pursuits that require full freedom of movement, look for blends that include a percentage of elastane or spandex for stretch. 

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Jessica Macdonald has been writing about travel clothing and accessories for more than 10 years. Having lived in South Africa and after extended backpacking trips around Southeast Asia and the western United States, she’s a big fan of travel dresses. She featured a few of her personal favorites on this list, asked T+L editors for their recommendations, and researched others online comparing travel-ready features, prices, and customer reviews.

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