Why do some people seemingly breeze through the airport with only one small bag in tow and others roll out into the arrival terminal with various luggages, plastic bags and a backpack?
For years, I have been a notorious over-packer. I don't even know why, it's not like I wore half of the things I had stuffed into my suitcase. It was more a question of “but what if I need this”… and then obviously I never did need any of that stuff.
The truth is, that all this luggage weighted me down, let me secretly swear about the tiny space you get in Economy class, had me break into sweat whenever I saw airport staff threatening to weight my hand luggage and gave me back pain and sore shoulders walking between terminals on connecting flights.
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Why Should You Pack Light for Europe?
Packing light makes very much sense, especially if you want to effortlessly manage to carry your bag or suitcase onto a plane, taxi or boat. Or have you ever tried to lift a 30kg heavy luggage up 8 floors through a tiny stairwell in Barcelona? Well, I have!
Trust me, over-packing does not only cost money because you might get charged excess baggage fees at the airport, but it will make most trips nerve-wracking and ultimately less fun.
Travelling light means packing enough clothes and toiletries to be comfortable but without the whole anxiety and worry about how you are going to get from one place to the next.
But how on earth do you make it happen, pack and travel light and not having to wear the same every day?
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How To Pack Light For 6 Weeks in Europe
As I am about to jump on the plane for a big 6-week trip to Europe, I set myself a challenge to go lighter than usual and minimize my luggage.
After all, my time will be spent with family in Germany, friends to experience summer in Sweden, a road trip across to Norway, a flight up to Iceland, another road trip driving around Iceland and back to Germany for a big family birthday party.
Lots of different things to do and wardrobes I will probably need. Don't lose sight of the packing light goal yet!
Step 1: Research Your Travel Destinations, Weather & Activities
For the past few weeks, I have checked weather forecasts, looked at all the things to do and see and planned out what I'd be doing in each destination.
Surely, it's going to be summer in Europe, but I am not going to the Mediterranean and Europe is still pretty big! And while you expect hot summer days in the south, the northern parts of Europe may indeed get chilly!
Hiking mountains in Norway, swimming in hot springs in Iceland, city sightseeing in Stockholm, discovering Dublin's hidden gems, having a nice summer party in Germany, and a couple of flights, trains and car rides might be where you like to stay cozy.
Lastly, I anticipate that especially Iceland will be windy with potentially colder nights, also seeing that I will be driving around in a campervan for 6 nights.
Step 2: Choose A Light Suitcase
While standard medium-sized suitcases often weigh up to 5kg, it might be time to invest in a more lightweight solution! Obviously, the larger the suitcase is the heavier it gets. It also automatically makes you pack more, because there is still a little bit of space right, so another piece of clothing surely won't hurt, right?
For this trip to Europe I have chosen a super lightweight suitcase, the American Tourister Applite 3.0 82cm (there is also a smaller 71cm version which you might prefer), which is a soft suitcase, has 360-degree spinner wheels, a built-in TSA combination lock and is feather light. It only weighs 2.9kg when empty and has enough space to bring some nice souvenirs home.
I knew I wasn't going to travel to Europe only with carry-on luggage, I am not that hardcore. But in case you want to and you are looking for the lightest carry-on luggage possible, check out the American Tourister Curio Spinner 55cm or the Belle Voyage 21” Spinner Cabin Suitcase which is also very light and durable but stylish.
If you are on the hunt for a light travel backpack instead of taking a suitcase, I recommend these two:
Related Article: Best Backpacks With Wheels For Travel
Step 3: It's Okay to Wear the Same Clothes Again
When traveling light you need to realize that any packing light tips will come with some drawbacks, as such, you should be okay with wearing your clothes at least two or three times.
It pays to take basic pieces that can easily go together but never look like you are wearing the same two days in a row. Let them air out for a day or two before re-wearing the same piece.
Washing on the road can be a dreadful experience because you either waste a lot of time or you come home with kids-sized clothes that have a pink touch. I don't believe in finding a wash salon on the road if you can avoid it. Unless you stay at an apartment or Airbnb that already has a washing machine included!
What you can do, however, if you know you definitely need to wash a few pieces, is to take a portable washing machine. Sure, that sounds a bit over the top, and it's not a real washing machine either, but Scrubba makes a cool wash bag that helps you wash your clothes in just 3 minutes and since it's so small, you can take it anywhere, pretty cool! If you choose quick-dry fabrics, you can also simply hand-wash them in the shower.
For my 6-week trip to Europe, I know I can wash my clothes once in the first two weeks, as I will be in Germany with family and potentially before the big birthday party towards the end if need be.
Travel Tip: Pack some Laundry Soap Sheets when traveling for more than 3-4 weeks to Europe, as you surely will be doing a quick wash then and you don't have to go hunting or overpay for a small amount of laundry detergent at the salon.
All in all, I am planning to pack outfits for 3 weeks of traveling through Europe without any washing opportunity.
Step 4: Use Packing Cubes To Keep Everything Organised
When packing light for travel, I use packing cubes. I haven't always used them and only discovered them a few months ago but it's been life, or well travel-changing.
I like these with extra compression functions. Brilliant! This way you can organize your outfits and never have to search for a piece. It also helps you separate your dirty washing which used to always fling across my luggage between my clean clothes.
Bulky, heavy items come on the bottom, all the light stuff goes on top.
Related Article: The Best Packing Cubes For Backpacking, Suitcases and Carry On Luggage
Step 5: Plan Your Outfits Day By Day
When it comes to planning your outfits day by day for your upcoming trip, there are a few golden rules to keep in mind. First, never bring any pieces you don't wear at home often either, because you think you will finally get to wear them when traveling. You most definitely won't.
What you pack will greatly depend on the seasons and European cities you're planning to visit – a beach in the south of Spain or a city trip around rainy Dublin's attractions, your clothing choices should align with the climate and activities on your agenda.
Stick to your favorite pieces that you are comfortable with, you know you will wear more than just once, and that can easily match with other colors. Versatility is key, so opt for pieces that can easily mix and match with other colors and outfits. If you are indecisive about a particular item, it's probably best to leave it behind. After all, you can always pick up a special piece along the way.
Remember, thoughtful outfit planning not only lightens your luggage but also ensures you look and feel your best throughout your journey. So, embrace the principle of less is more, and get ready for a stylish and stress-free adventure.
Step 6: The Ultimate Packing Light For Europe List
And here we go, this is my list of how to pack light for 3 weeks traveling around Europe:
Clothes:
- Waterproof fleece jacket
- Cardigan
- 2 Jumpers
- 4 tank tops
- 4 short sleeve t-shirts
- 3 pairs of pants
- 2 Leggings
- Dress
- Skirt
- 4 bras
- 10 underwear
- 7 pair of socks
- 2 pair thermals (for Iceland)
Shoes:
- Sandals
- 2 Sneakers
- Thongs
Accessories:
- Sunglasses
- Bikini
- Light scarf
- First-aid kit
- Reusable grocery bag
- Travel towel, I love this one here
Electronics:
- Power Bank
- Phone
- Laptop
- Noise-cancelling headphones
- Chargers & cables
- International power adapter, I love this one
- I also get an eSIM ahead of time, I love Holafly
Toiletries:
- Face wash & spray
- Face moisturiser
- Shampoo/conditioner
- Shaving razor
- Deodorant
- Perfume
- Makeup
Step 7: Don’t Forget Travel Insurance
When planning your six-week European adventure, don’t forget to get travel insurance before take-off. I have used SafetyWing for many trips across Europe as well as globally, as they offer travel medical insurance for over 180 countries.
Their comprehensive coverage is available with a $0 deductible, so you’re covered for even small claims. SafetyWing's cover includes travel delays, lost luggage and trip interruptions with a US$250,000 medical expense coverage.
If you're like me and you travel with a lot of electronics like a laptop, drone and underwater camera, there's also an option to add on electronic theft insurance. You can get a personal quote right below:
What to Pack for 6 Weeks in Europe – Final Words
As you prepare for your six-week adventure around Europe, remember that versatility and comfort are key when it comes to packing.
Start with some basic clothes, comfortable walking shoes, and travel-sized toiletries to keep your luggage manageable and light. Consider the activities you have planned and pack accordingly, whether it's hiking gear for Norway, or a swimsuit for the Mediterranean or elegant attire for a night out in Paris.
Don't forget travel documents, adapters for electronic devices, and of course, travel insurance!
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