Embarking on a summer adventure in Europe is an experience filled with endless possibilities! Being able to bounce from country to country and see so many different cities and cultures in a short amount of time is memorable.
I have had some of my best summer memories from wandering through cobblestone streets of Rome, to soaking up the sun in Croatia or having a picnic in front of the Eiffel Tower.
Having traveled through many vibrant cities of Europe during the spring and summer months, I’ve honed my packing skills to ensure my packing list for Europe in Summer is spot on!
So, I have drawn from my own experience and created the most practical list of exactly what you need to pack—clothing, travel tech, carry-on essentials, and more. So, this is exactly what you need to pack for your next trip to Europe.
⏰ Short on time? Here's our top recommendation for Visiting Europe this Summer
💸 Save Money: Book your tours in Europe through Viator and Get Your Guide. (Best for Europe)
🚙 Rent your car in Europe through Rentalcars.com
🏨 Compare Hotels in Europe through Booking.com (my favourite)
👉 Read Next: Clothing Rules for Vatican City (Guide for Men, Women and Children)
Disclaimer: Please note that some of the links in this article may be affiliate links. This means that, at no extra cost to you, I may earn a small commission if you click on or make a purchase through these links.
Firstly, let’s answer the most common Europe summer travel questions.
What months are summer in Europe?
Summer in Europe generally spans from June to August. However, keep in mind that the weather can vary depending on the region you’re visiting.
If you travel up north, prepare for cooler nights and warm days; however, further down south, the sun will be shining, so prepare for HOT days.
👉 For tips on exploring one of Italy’s most beautiful cities, check out my Travel Guide to Visiting Florence, Italy.
Which is the best month to visit Europe?
I personally prefer late spring and early summer (May and June) as fantastic times to visit Europe.
The weather is pleasant, and the crowds are generally smaller compared to peak summer months. This is perfect weather for strolling the streets and exploring without getting too hot.
Which European country is best for summer?
Having explored several European countries during the summer, I can say that Italy, with its stunning coastlines and vibrant culture, is one of my favourite destinations for a summer getaway
Greece and Spain also offer incredible beaches and rich history, making them ideal summer destinations.
Also, can’t miss the French Riviera. In saying that, it depends on what you’re after because the list of beautiful cities that come alive in Europe during summer is endless!
👉 For getting around Rome in style in style, consider Renting a Vespa in Rome (Everything you should know)
How do I pack for Europe in summer?
Clothing
- Lightweight tops, bottoms, and dresses that transition from day to night.
- Comfortable walking shoes (trust me, there will be a lot of walking on cobblestone streets).
- Swimsuit and cover-up.
- Bag with a zip, pickpockers are real in Europe!
- A lightweight jumper for the chilly nights
TRAVEL ESSENTIALS
Carry-On
Using a compact carry-on backpack makes a difference. One with lots of compartments makes it easy to keep things organised.
For flights, there are a few extra items I pack:
- Skincare, toothbrush, toothpaste under 100ml.
- Charging cables and power bank.
- Eye mask to get some extra shut-eye.
- Good compression socks, you’ll be thankful when you arrive.
- Neck pillow! I don’t travel without one, plus it’s great if you’re catching trains across Europe.
CARRY ON MUST HAVES
Travel Safety Products
Don’t forget to pack essential safety items to keep you safe and your belongings secure.
If you’re wondering about transportation options, read Is There Uber in Rome?
- Travel lock for your luggage.
- Bag with a zip.
- Phone cord to keep your phone attached to you at all times.
- Hotel door lock for peace of mind.
TRAVEL SAFETY
Travel Tech
As a tech-savvy traveler, I always make sure to pack essential travel gadgets! Incorporating these have definitely elevated my Europe summer trips and added a lot of convenience.
- Portable charger, don’t miss any travel moment by keeping your devices charged.
- Universal adapter! Need I say more?
- Portable lightweight tripod. Makes it easier to capture some moments.
- Airfly for comfort on airplanes. Using your own headphones makes a difference.
- Power board, trust me you’ll need more than one plug.
- Portable luggage scale.
TRAVEL TECH
Best Luggage for Europe
Navigating the charming streets of Europe has taught me the importance of selecting the perfect luggage. With cobblestone paths and staircases aplenty, finding the right gear is key to a smooth journey. Picture this: you arrive at your quaint European hotel only to realise there’s no elevator in sight. That’s why I’m here to share my top picks for luggage that’ll make your European adventure a breeze:
- Start with a compact carry-on that meets the strict size requirements of budget airlines like Ryanair.
- Invest in a trusty lightweight backpack that can hold all your essentials, making it ideal for those cobblestone streets and tight spaces.
- Opt for checked luggage backpack. This strikes the perfect balance between durability and weight, ensuring it can withstand the rigors of travel while keeping your belongings safe.
- And if you’re a fan of hard-shell suitcases like me, look no further than one that’s both lightweight and rugged, providing peace of mind as you journey across Europe’s diverse landscapes.
LUGGAGE AND PACKING ESSENTIALS
Top packing tips
Finally, here are some of my top packing tips to make packing for your next trip to Europe a breeze:
- Travel wallet. This will keep your important documents together.
- Roll all your clothes.
- You can fit more in with a compression bag.
- Keep your items organised! It makes life so much easier when living out of a suitcase. Invest in travel cubes and a cable organiser.
👉 If you are looking for tips about visiting Italy? Make sure to check out my Tips for Hiring a Car and Driving in Italy and Pretty Small Towns in Italy to Visit!
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