Planning your summer trip to Europe in 2025? Wondering what to pack and what’s just dead weight? You’re in the right place.
Hi, I’m Anna – photographer, traveler, and someone who has learned the hard way what’s worth stuffing in a suitcase. I’ve visited over 30 countries, including a wide range of European destinations: from getting stuck on Madeira Island during a windstorm, to wandering through tiny French villages, road-tripping across Portugal, and sweating through Spanish city streets in August.
Each country has its own pace, climate, and terrain – which means packing isn’t one-size-fits-all. That said, a few things are consistently useful. Whether you’re heading to Italy, France, Croatia, or beyond, here are 10 travel essentials I recommend for every European summer trip in 2025 – especially if you want to pack lighter, smarter, and with fewer regrets.
1. Lightweight, Versatile Layers
Even in summer, European weather can surprise you. Bring a light jacket, oversized button-down, or compact sweater that works across outfits and climates. Perfect for coastal winds, mountain breezes, or chilly plane rides.
2. Comfortable Walking Shoes (That Don’t Scream “Tourist”).
You’ll walk – a lot. Think 15,000+ steps a day through cobblestones, hills, and endless museum halls. Bring shoes that are comfortable but still stylish enough for dinners, photos, and churches.
I suggest a simple walking shoe like Reebok Sneakers — they’re low-profile, work with lots of outfits (even dresses), and are surprisingly comfy for long days. Break them in before you go.
3. Travel-Sized Containers (Plus Solid Toiletries)
Instead of bringing bulky bottles or random minis, use refillable travel-sized containers for your essentials — shampoo, lotion, sunscreen, cleanser. Opt for durable, leakproof containers that won’t crack mid-transit
Pair those with a sturdy, organized toiletry bag — preferably waterproof, with compartments to keep things from turning into a mess. And if you want to go even lighter, try solid alternatives like shampoo bars or sunscreen sticks to skip the liquids altogether.
I recommend investing in higher-quality containers that won’t crack or leak mid-trip. They’re more expensive than some of the cheap sets out there, but absolutely worth it.
👉 Check out my favorite set here
4. Universal Power Adapter (Type C + USB-C)
Europe mostly uses Type C or Type F plugs, so bring a universal travel adapter with USB-C ports to keep all your devices charged. Don’t rely on your Airbnb having extras.
Double check the plug type for each country you’re visiting – the UK, Ireland, and Switzerland use different ones.
For most travelers, I recommend a universal adapter with USB-C and multiple USB ports so you can charge your phone, camera, and power bank all at once.
👉 Here’s the one I use – compact, works in most countries, and super reliable
5. Compression Packing Cubes
These are game-changers. Compression cubes help maximize space and keep you organized – especially if you’re moving between cities or using budget airlines with strict baggage limits.
Compression cubes help you fit more into less space while keeping your clothes organized by type or outfit.
They make packing (and repacking) way less stressful, especially when you’re living out of a suitcase for weeks.
👉 These are the ones I use — durable, compact, and surprisingly spacious
6. Compact Day Bag or Anti-Theft Sling
You’ll need a secure, comfortable bag for daily adventures. Choose an anti-theft crossbody, sling, or compact backpack that works from day to night and keeps your stuff safe in crowded spots.
It’s worth investing in one that looks good and doesn’t scream “tourist.”
👉 Check out this one I recommend – sleek, durable, and fits just enough without being bulky
7. Lightweight Scarf or Wrap
This one does it all: sun protection, church cover-up, picnic blanket, plane layer, beach towel. It’s the single most useful accessory I bring.
Many churches and cathedrals across Europe — especially in Italy, Spain, and Eastern Europe — require you to cover your shoulders (and sometimes knees) to enter. A scarf makes it easy to adapt without changing your whole outfit.
Check out this scarf/wrap
8. Reusable Water Bottle (With Optional Filter)
Europe’s tap water is mostly drinkable, but it depends on the city. Bring a collapsible or insulated bottle – and consider a filter if you’re headed to southern regions where water quality varies.
My suggestion: Collapsible Water Bottle, 20oz, Leak Proof, BPA-Free, Foldable Silicone Travel Water Bottle with Straw Strap
9. Sunglasses + High-SPF Sunscreen
The sun hits different in places like Spain or Croatia. Bring polarized sunglasses for long walking days and SPF 50 or mineral sunscreen — harder to find once you’re abroad.
10. Camera or Smartphone Tripod
Whether you’re shooting content or just want a great group photo, a small tripod or phone mount lets you capture the moment without begging a stranger. Game-changing for solo travelers.
You don’t need a fancy G7X or mirrorless setup either. If you’re just looking for cute, vintage-style photos with flash, I highly recommend the Kodak FZ45. It’s tiny, super easy to use, and one of the most affordable digicams on the market right now. Perfect for casual snapshots with retro vibes.
✈️ Final Thoughts: Pack Smart, Not Heavy
Packing for a European summer doesn’t have to be overwhelming. The trick is to pack less — but smarter. Focus on versatile, practical items you’ll use again and again. These 10 essentials have been lifesavers on my own trips across Europe, whether I was hiking cliffs in Ireland or navigating cobblestone streets in Lisbon.
Still unsure what to leave behind? I’ve got a follow-up post coming soon: “What NOT to Pack for a Europe Trip in 2025.” Spoiler: you don’t need three pairs of jeans.