Common Packing Mistakes to Avoid When Traveling in Europe

Photo credit: www.travelandleisure.com

Prior to relocating to Paris last year, I frequently visited Europe, aided by my father’s airline pilot career and later my role as a travel writer. My adventures have taken me through various experiences, including camping in the Black Forest, wine-making in Georgia, and solo road trips across the Baltics. I have explored every EU country, and with each journey, I rely on a consistent selection of essentials packed in my carry-on.

Growing up with stand-by flight privileges instilled in me a preference for traveling light. Over time, through experience, I’ve learned which items are essential for European trips and which ones may only take up valuable space in my luggage. For example, I always make room for a travel umbrella and a lightweight jacket for unexpected rain showers. Additionally, I prioritize a few comfort items to enhance my traveling experience. To learn about my biggest packing mistakes and what I’ve learned, keep reading.

Packing Open-Toed Shoes

Recommended: Diadora B.Elite H Italia Sneakers

Amazon

Decades ago, sneakers might have seemed out of place in Europe, but today they are a staple across all cities, including fashion hubs like Milan and Paris. The Diadora brand prioritizes comfort, making their stylish shoes ideal for exploring cobblestone streets and vibrant urban scenes throughout Europe.

Using a Four-Wheeled Suitcase

Recommended: Travelpro Maxline 5 Softside 22-inch Carry-on Bag

Amazon

While four-wheeled suitcases may roll smoothly on even surfaces, many locations throughout Europe present rocky paths and ancient streets where a two-wheeled bag shines. I’ve used the Travelpro bag on countless travels and appreciate its durability and robust holding capacity, making it my go-to for unpredictable travel environments.

Assuming You Can Sleep Anywhere

Recommended: Matador Travel Earplugs

REI

I’ll never forget the family trip to Rüdesheim where we inadvertently booked a room right beside a bell tower, ringing every hour. Now, it’s a family anecdote, but I’ve learned the importance of packing earplugs whenever I travel. They prove invaluable for blocking out disruptive noise and ensuring a restful night, no matter the surroundings.

Wearing a Backpack in Cities

Recommended: Travelon Anti-theft Convertible Crossbody

Amazon

While backpacks are suitable for airports, navigating city streets with a crossbody bag offers both convenience and enhanced security. The Travelon anti-theft bag keeps essential items like your passport and credit cards safe and easily accessible, featuring advanced anti-theft technologies.

Packing Too Many Coats

Recommended: Open Edit The Icon Blazer

Nordstrom

A heavy coat may be necessary during winter travels, but for other seasons, a versatile blazer will serve multiple purposes. It can transition from a stylish day out in museums to a casual evening meal and fits easily into your suitcase, saving space for other essentials.

Wearing Yoga Pants as Daily Attire

Recommended: Athleta Pinnacle High-rise Trousers

Athleta

Casual dress codes in Europe tend to lean towards smart casual or business casual rather than the athleisure trend. Opting for comfortable yet stylish options such as Athleta’s high-rise trousers allows for a polished look without sacrificing comfort. They’re also convenient, as they resist wrinkling, making them perfect for travel.

Relying Solely on Noise-Canceling Earbuds

Recommended: Loop Switch 2 Adjustable Ear Plugs

Amazon

While noise-canceling earbuds are great in transit, they may hinder awareness of your surroundings while exploring. I prefer earplugs that allow for adjustable noise control, helping to maintain awareness of what’s happening around me. They are also useful in different environments, allowing me to adapt based on whether I’m on a train or walking the city streets.

Packing Multiple Adapters

Recommended: Epicka Universal All-in-one Travel Adapter

Amazon

Every European country has its own electrical plug configuration, making it essential to avoid the hassle of multiple adapters. A universal travel adapter that accommodates various outlets is more efficient and saves you from carrying loose accessories that can easily get lost.

Using Standard Packing Cubes

Recommended: Baggallini Compression Packing Cubes Travel Set

Nordstrom

Initially, I thought regular packing cubes sufficed, but then I discovered the advantages of compression packing cubes, which maximize luggage capacity by minimizing air space. The Baggallini set is also water-resistant, providing added durability.

Overpacking Outfits

Recommended: PrettyGarden Sweater Top Matching Set

Amazon

Rather than coordinating a unique outfit for each travel day, consider a cohesive color palette that enables versatile mixes and matches. A matching set like the one from PrettyGarden is not only stylish but can easily adapt to different occasions when combined with other pieces in your closet.

Sticking to Heels

Recommended: Rothy’s The Point II Flats

Rothy’s

Many Europeans favor comfortable flats or stylish sneakers over heels for daily wear, especially when maneuvering through their historic cities. Rothy’s flats are excellent for pairing with a variety of outfit styles while maintaining high levels of comfort, and they’re eco-friendly since they’re crafted from recycled materials.

Neglecting to Bring an Umbrella

Recommended: Copulan Mini Travel Umbrella

Amazon

Rain can appear unexpectedly, even on what seems like a clear day, especially in places like Paris. I always carry a compact umbrella to ensure I’m prepared for sudden downpours without compromising on space in my bags.

Bringing Only a Charging Cable

Recommended: Anker Power Bank

Amazon

A power bank has become a travel essential for me, particularly in Europe where I rely heavily on my phone for navigation and communication functions that can rapidly deplete battery life. This compact power bank conveniently fits into my bag for on-the-go charging.

Packing a Hair Dryer

Recommended: VGR Dual Voltage Travel 2-in-1 Curling Iron and Flat Iron

Amazon

Ghd Unplugged Hair Styler

Amazon

Many travelers who bring hair dryers often hesitate to use them due to voltage concerns in Europe. Most hotels provide hair dryers, while curling and flat irons can be rare. Therefore, I switched to a versatile cordless hair styler that also serves as a flat iron, making it a travel-friendly tool that simplifies packing.

Skipping Downtime Materials

Recommended: Thinking in Watercolor: A Daily Practice to Unlock Your Creativity & Discover Your Inner Artist

Amazon

Amidst the hustle of travel, it’s easy to overlook the joy of slowing down to appreciate your surroundings. Engaging in activities like sketching or journaling allows for deep immersion into the culture and scenic beauty of Europe. I recommend carrying a beginner-friendly book that inspires creativity and reflection.

Source
www.travelandleisure.com