My European adventures started in the spring of 2017 on a week-long solo work trip to Brussels. Maybe it was something in the air or the thrill of escaping dreary Chicago winters that sometimes last until May, but I’ve found myself returning every year since. Some trips were family vacations exploring the streets of Lisbon, London, or Paris, while others were travel journalism assignments to Vienna, Amsterdam, and Dublin. But no matter how many times I crossed the pond, I still managed to make my fair share of packing mistakes, like hauling bulky suitcases and bringing outfits that looked out of place on the fashion-forward streets of Europe.
Through much trial and error over the years, I’ve now learned what travel clothes and gear deserve a spot in my suitcase for a European trip—and the items that should just stay at home. Here are the 14 packing mistakes I’ve made in the past, and the products that I’m bringing instead on my upcoming spring Europe trip, from stylish, functional trench coats to comfortable walking shoes.
Don’t pack: Heavy jeans
Pack instead: Comfy, travel‑friendly pants
Jeans are always a go‑to at home, but when traveling across Europe, denim feels restrictive and uncomfortable for all-day wear. Switching to stretchy, wide-leg pants, like the quick-drying Kuhl Vantage pants or the stylish Sampeel palazzo pants, instantly gives your outfit that breezy “city” feel and transitions well from day to night. Plus, these pants pack lighter than jeans, so you’ll save some luggage space.
Don’t pack: A heavy coat
Pack instead: Classic trench coat
One year, I went to Dublin for St. Patrick’s Day and made the mistake of lugging my heavy puffer jacket because it still felt like winter back home in Chicago. But, unlike Chicago, the weather in Dublin was warm with light rain, so I was completely ill-prepared. Since then, I have invested in a long trench coat, which I primarily wear during my spring European travels. This double-breasted one from Quince is lightweight, weather-resistant, and chic, making it a versatile addition to my travel wardrobe. For colder days, you can add a sweater or cardigan and leave the belt off for a more free-flowing look.
Don’t pack: Bulky sweaters
Pack instead: Lightweight cashmere layers
I remember it was unseasonably warm during one spring break trip to Amsterdam for spring break, and I had to buy expensive tops because I only packed heavy sweaters, anticipating the cold. Instead, now I pack a lightweight cashmere sweater, which offers warmth without bulk for chillier days, but is still breathable enough not to overheat when the sun comes out. And, because these sweaters aren’t so bulky, they pack down small without sacrificing luggage space.
Don’t pack: Shoes that hurt mid‑trip
Pack instead: Cushioned, walking‑ready sneakers
Even the prettiest European streets can be uneven, and when you add cobblestoned paths, your feet can take a beating. If your daily itinerary calls for all-day city explorations, then a pair of comfy sneakers like the Adidas Vl Court Bold Sneaker is key. I like the layered rubber platform that not only adds visual impact but also offers plenty of cushion against uneven terrain.
Don’t pack: Wrinkle-prone clothes
Pack instead: Wrinkle‑free clothes
On a work trip to Vienna in 2021, I arrived at my hotel only to realize that there was no iron in the room. Apparently, that’s fairly common in Europe, and you have to request one from the front desk. But by the time I finally asked, the irons were all loaned out to other guests. I ended up wearing wrinkled clothes the entire trip, and since then, I always pack a few outfit options that don’t require ironing. One of my favorites is the Kuhl Vantage dress, made from lightweight stretch fabric that’s odor-resistant. It also includes an external drawcord for an adjustable fit.
Don’t pack: Only cotton T‑shirts
Pack instead: Linen button-down shirts
Don’t get me wrong, cotton T-shirts are comfortable and a good travel staple for everyone. But for a European trip, adding an elegant button-down shirt to your packing list adds the right amount of flair. I always pack a couple of shirts from Mint Velvet with me when visiting Europe because they have details like ruffles or lace that instantly elevate a look. They are versatile and can be worn with jeans, trousers, or even skirts.
Don’t: Only bring outdoor boots
Pack as well: Chic flats
As an avid hiker and backpacker, I quickly learned the mistake of only packing hiking shoes while on a trip to London and Paris in 2023. Sneakers are essential, but limiting yourself to just one pair can leave you underdressed for restaurants, galleries, and cafés. Now I always pack a pair of stylish yet practical flats like these suede loafers. They are soft and comfortable for long hours on your feet, but give an elevated, effortless look that goes well with jeans as well as dresses.
Don’t use: Cumbersome checked bags
Bring instead: Expandable carry-on
Lugging big suitcases on cobblestone streets or stairs is a sure giveaway of being an ill-prepared tourist. If you want to travel in Europe more effortlessly, a carry-on makes it easy to be mobile and self-reliant. The reliable Samsonite Freeform Carry-on has 360-degree spinner wheels that roll smoothly. It stays compact and expands when you actually need the extra space to bring back some European souvenirs.
Don’t use: Bulky backpacks
Bring instead: Structured tote
While I am all for a sturdy backpack when I am out hiking and camping, Europe calls for something more chic and functional. I swap mine for a big leather tote that works as a catch-all bag when needed and packs away when not in use.
Don’t forget: Rain protection
Bring: Compact travel umbrella
Spring showers are charming until you get caught in one unprepared and end up soaking wet without a backup, as I did in London last spring. A compact travel umbrella, like the Repel Windproof Travel Umbrella, fits easily in a tote and offers reliable protection when skies turn gray.
Don’t pack: Too many—or too few—toiletries
Pack instead: Travel‑sized bottles
A few years ago, my European spring trip involved three different cities in a span of two weeks. Instead of packing my own toiletries, I relied on whatever tiny toiletries were on hand at my hotels—and my hair paid the price. Since making that mistake, I pack my normal hair and skin care essentials, whether in travel sizes, like this Method shampoo and conditioner travel set, or decanted into reusable travel toiletry bottles.
Don’t pack: An assortment of adapters or chargers
Pack instead: Multi‑device travel adapter
While many hotels in Europe offer an adapter for guests to borrow, sometimes it is better to have your own to use in train stations, airport lounges, or Airbnb. Instead of bringing too many, though, pack the Epicka universal adapter that switches easily from US to UK or Europe outlets and powers multiple devices at the same time.
Don’t pack: A lot of makeup
Pack instead: Multi-functional tinted sunscreen
Something about Spring in Europe makes me want to ditch my normal makeup routine and go for a fresh, sun-kissed look that I see everywhere in Paris and London. But I know that sunscreen is a must, so Daybird 4-in-1 skin tint serum with SPF 50 is exactly the kind of product I carry in my bag. It’s lightweight and easy to blend, but still gives that soft, warm glow. I love that it cuts down my toiletry bag without sacrificing the basics in one simple step.
Don’t forget: Accessories
Bring: Scarves and jewelry
Sometimes it takes going across the pond to realize that you don’t need much to elevate your travel wardrobe. Simple essentials like silk scarves and jewelry can instantly take a look from basic to elegant. I like to pack a colorful silk scarf for a pop of color and some dainty jewelry that makes a statement while being subtle.
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