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Packing for a month-long trip to Europe can feel completely overwhelming, especially when you're juggling multiple climates, limited suitcase space, and the pressure to “get it right.” I get it, because I just did exactly that.
If you want to see how I planned this packing list from the start, check out this post here. 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!
✅ Want my free Europe packing list? [Download it here] to simplify your own packing.
What I Packed and How It Actually Went
In the photo below, I added numbers to show how many times I wore each item. Let’s get into the wins, fails, and surprises.
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.
My Favorite Travel Layer: 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.
Best Summer Tops for Europe
Black v-neck + black flutter top: Wore often. So versatile.
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!
Best Travel Shoes for Europe
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.
Best Airplane Outfit for Long-Haul Europe Flights
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: Roll or Compress?
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.
Best Suitcase Size for 30 Days in Europe
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.
Pictured above is the 24″ suitcase I'd planned to take, but once I got my toiletries added, I actually didn't have room for buying new stuff! So I switched to a larger 28″ suitcase.
Can I pack for a month in Europe with just a carry-on? Yes, but only if you're extremely strategic about layering, re-wearing, and doing laundry. Since I was traveling through multiple climates, I opted for a checked bag for flexibility and comfort.
How many outfits do I need for a 30-day Europe trip? I packed about 10 mix-and-match tops and bottoms that worked across climates and activities. The key is versatile layers that can dress up or down, and sticking to a coordinated color palette.
What shoes are best for a month in Europe? Comfortable walking shoes are non-negotiable. I packed sneakers, sandals, flats, and flip-flops for different needs — but would streamline next time.
Is it better to roll or fold clothes for long trips? Both! I used compression cubes for bulkier items and rolled lighter clothes to keep them visible and organized during hotel stays.
What should I avoid packing for a Europe trip? Anything you feel “meh” about wearing. I learned to leave behind pieces I didn’t love or that didn’t serve multiple purposes.
Final Thoughts: My Biggest Packing Lessons
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!
Sojourns With Sue is a travel blog focused on solo, female, over 50 travel in the USA and Europe. Sue gives her personal take on the most unique and cool sights and places to stay.
