What I Actually Wore: Real Results from Packing for a Month in Europe

So, you’re planning a month in Europe and wondering what you actually need to lug along. Been there! In my original post on how to pack for a month in Europe, I shared what I planned to bring. But packing for three very different climates (Italy, Norway, and England) was no easy feat. Now that the trip’s over, I’m back with the truth: what I wore, what flopped, what I wish I’d skipped, and how I’ll tweak my packing list next time. If you’re trying to pack smarter, not heavier, this post is for you.

I promised to follow up with my actual results, and here they are!

What Worked, What Flopped: My Packing Hits and Misses

In the picture below, I’ve added numbers to indicate approximately how many times I wore each item.

Here’s how each item performed across three very different destinations—and what I’d do differently next time.

Raincoat

Wore: Once (in Norway)
Verdict: Functional, but too bulky. I’ll pack a lighter one next time.

Tip for you: Opt for a compressible rain layer you can shove in a tote—you’ll thank yourself.

Black Cardigan

Wore: Constantly
Verdict: Total MVP. Lightweight, stylish, and perfect for chilly museums or flights.

Note: Always pack one go-with-everything layer. This one saved me more times than I can count.

Short-Sleeved Tops

• Black v-neck + black flutter top: Wore often. So versatile.
• Green ruffle-sleeve tee: A surprise fave—paired well with everything.
• Blue-grey v-neck: RIP—ruined by olive oil in Italy.
• Maroon print blouse: Wore once. Didn’t love it, shouldn’t have packed it.
• Blue latern sleeve linen blouse: Surprisingly chic and comfy.

Lesson learned: Stick with things you already love and test outfits beforehand.

Long-Sleeved Shirts: Lessons in Layering

White Linen Button-Up (Oversized)

Wore: Multiple times as a swimsuit cover-up
Verdict: Great for beach and cruise pool—too sloppy for jeans.

Next time: I’ll size down so it can pull double duty as a casual top and beachwear.

Black Button-Down Blouse

Wore: Once (fancy dinner on the cruise)
Verdict: Didn’t earn its keep. Too limited in versatility.

Better bet: A lightweight black or white linen shirt that works day-to-night—and beach-to-bistro.

Dresses: One Would’ve Done It

Wore: Only the one I loved—and only twice
Verdict: Should have brought just one.

Packing tip: If you’re not excited to wear it multiple ways, leave it home.

Shorts & Skirts: Comfort Wins

White Lined Linen Shorts

Wore: Frequently
Verdict: Loved them—cool, stylish, and functional.

Next time: Bring a second pair (maybe in a darker tone to mix it up).

Short Wrap Skirt (RipSkirt)

Wore: Occasionally
Verdict: Lightweight and a fun change of pace.

Nice-to-have item: But not essential unless you crave variety.

Pants: The Good, the Bad, and the “Gilligan”

White Pedal Pushers

Wore: Once
Verdict: Total fail—ditched them on the road.

Lesson: Always try everything on before packing.

Bone-Colored Wide-Leg Linen Pants

Wore: Constantly until they got a hole
Verdict: Loved them—until they fell apart.

Upgrade needed: Thicker quality next time. Have a rec? Drop it in the comments!

Black Linen Cropped Pants

Wore: Frequently (especially after the white ones died)
Verdict: Comfy but felt a little… Gilligan-esque.

Comfort won this round, even if the style wasn’t perfect.

Jeans (2 Pairs)

Wore: Both regularly in England and Norway
Verdict: Worth it for cooler climates, but one pair would suffice next time.

Pro tip: Always fly in your heaviest pair of pants/jeans!

Shoes: Every Pair Earned Their Place—Almost

Brought: 4 pairs + flip-flops
Wore: All of them
Verdict: They each had their moment, but…

Next time: I’d skip the duplicate sandals. One versatile neutral pair (like the tan) + black flats = enough. Flip-flops were lightweight and essential for the beach/cruise pool.

Packing trick: Wear the bulkiest pair (like sneakers or boots) on the plane to save space.

Airplane Outfit: 10/10

Wore: Jeans, sweater, scarf, and bulkiest shoes
Verdict: Nailed it. Layered, comfy, and strategic.

Why it worked: Easy to adjust for temps, and it saved major suitcase space.

Packing Cubes: Compression vs. Rolling

Tried: Compression cubes with stacked folding
Switched to: Rolling clothes mid-trip
Verdict: Rolling wins for visibility, especially on short hotel stays.

Biggest win: Compression cubes saved room (hello, souvenirs!). Wrinkles were a trade-off I was willing to make.

Next test: I might combine both next time—roll lighter items, compress bulkier ones.

Suitcase Choice: Upsize for Sanity

Started with: 24″ suitcase
Ended up with: 28″
Verdict: The smaller case didn’t leave room for bringing new stuff home.

Packing reflection: Even with careful planning, managing three climates takes space. I’d still try to streamline further, but for this type of trip, the larger suitcase was worth it for ease.

Final Thoughts & Future Adjustments

Despite my best pre-trip planning, this adventure taught me a lot about what’s actually worth bringing for a month in Europe. I’m still refining my strategy, and I’ll keep sharing what I learn.

Got a favorite item or smart packing hack? I’d love to hear it! Drop it in the comments!

Click here to download the entire Woman’s 30 Days in Europe Packing List!