12 Essential Items For Your Europe Packing List

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As I was packing for our second trip to Europe this year, I realized that many people going to Europe for the first time might have no idea just how helpful some of the things I am packing are.

Everyone knows to bring packing cubes and comfortable shoes. But what about the random items that make your trip WAY more convenient, safe, and enjoyable?

I’m sharing my top 12 essential items for your Europe packing list here and I’d wager good money that at least one is something you never thought to bring!

Over The Counter Medicines

We learned the hard way that just because OTC medicines are readily available in the US, it doesn’t mean you can get them in Europe.

My husband got hit by a nasty cold in Switzerland earlier this year, and when he went to the pharmacy in search of Nyquil, the pharmacist wouldn’t give it to him. 

Europe has many more controls in place for OTC meds and you might not be able to get them – I even had to talk to a pharmacist to get Ibuprofen and explain why I needed it!

I now bring everything I think I might need with me in travel packs. My must-haves include:

• Daytime cold and flu tablets
• Nyquil tablets
• Ibuprofen (and lots of it lol)
• Gas-X
• Pepto Bismol tabs

Now I won’t have to plead my case to anyone and have everything on hand in the event I need it. 

Cut-Proof Cross Body Bag

Unfortunately, pick pocketing is a real thing in Europe. While it’s not an issue in small towns, big tourist attractions (think the Eiffel Tower and Rome’s Colosseum) are frequented by pick pockets. 

But the good news is that they only go after easy targets. To make yourself NOT an easy target, I suggest using a cut-proof cross body bag. 

You won’t have to worry and can enjoy yourself this way!

Phone Wrist Strap

While we are talking about safety… there is an epidemic of phone-snatching in London and Paris. 

Again, they go for easy targets, and the way to be able to use your phone stress-free in public (while waiting for a bus or on the subway, for example) is to get a cheap wrist strap that attaches through your phone’s case. 

Then you won’t be a target and can still get all of the pictures you want!

Tissue Packs

While these are always a good idea, you will want to have tissue packs with you in Europe because some times public restrooms are completely lacking toilet paper. 

If you don’t like the idea of going without, carry a pack of tissues with you so you’re never without TP!

Bring Some Euros With You

I know some people to advise stopping by an ATM once you arrive to obtain some foreign currency. 

But immigration officers may ask you how much money you have on you when they are deciding whether or not to let you into the country. Needless to say, “none but I’m getting some soon” is not what they want to hear. 

I always bring about €200-300 with me that I obtain from my local credit union before I leave. I get a favorable exchange rate and only pay a small fee (less than ATMs charge).

And I can tell immigration I at least have some cash on me and I don’t have to hunt down an ATM immediately. 

Collapsible Water Bottle

There is free clean water available from public fountains in many places in Europe.

If you want to save money and cut down on single use plastics, bring a collapsible water bottle along in your day bag. 

Scarf (Even In Summer)

I always bring a scarf along on flights to Europe. You can place it behind the headrest on your airplane seat and tie it under your chin as an alterntive to a bulky neck pillow!

Just Google “scarf headrest hack” to see this in action.

Euro Adapter

On every trip I end up using my travel adapters at least once. 

The UK uses a different plug from the rest of Europe (which uses a two-prong outlet) so if you are traveling to both the UK and mainland Europe you’ll need two different adapters. 

Make sure they accomodate what plugs you need – USB-C, USB-A, or Type B (standard US 3-prong plug). 

Also make sure your curling iron or flat iron is “dual voltage” if you want to use it in Europe. 

Compression Socks

Once you take a long flight in compression socks you will never go back. 

They make long flights SO much more confortable and safer by reducing blood pooling in your feet. 

Also remember to get up and walk around every few hours that you are awake.

Electrolyte Packs

Speaking of flying, you WILL get dehydrated on long flights unless you drink some electrolytes. 

There is really no way to stay hydrated with water alone because the air is so dry in the cabin. 

I like Gatorlyte packs but any will do! This will help reduce the bad effects of jet leg, too. 

Laundry Detergent Sheets

If you are traveling with a carry-on like me, you may want to wash some of your clothes part way through your trip. 

Even if your accomodation has a washing machine, you will likely have to provide your own detergent. 

I love bringing these lightweight detergent sheets so I am ready to go when I want to wash some clothes. 

Inflatable Airplane Footrest

Ok I have to admit I haven’t tried this one yet but I am taking it along on this upcoming trip!

Most airlines allow you to use these as long as it doesn’t block aisle access. So think window seats and inside aisle seats. 

I hope it helps make our 9-hour flight home from Italy more comfortable. 

Passport

Though not pictured, you of course want to bring your passport along! 

In Italy you have to carry it around with you at all times for identification, so that’s even more reason to have a cut-proof bag with you. 

And I suggest taking a photo of the inside front and back pages of your passport and emailing the images to yourself in the event is does get lost. 

I hope these packing ideas help you have an incredible trip to Europe!

Any questions? Please leave a comment below.