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Ultimate Packing List for Europe for all seasons

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Europe is our favorite continent of visit. In a given year, we visit this mighty continent 1-2 times all the way from North America and pack everything in our lovely backpack carry-on. We have visited different countries at different times of the year and that has given us an in-depth understanding of the packing needs to not only survive but enjoy European countries to the fullest. So here is our ultimate packing list for Europe, with travel tips.

Europe Packing List and Map
Europe Regions and Climate

Let’s start with a quick snapshot of Europe. This comprehensive post has Europe packing list recommendations by season – spring, summer, fall, and winter. We have included some exceptions for certain regions or countries in Europe where additional items may be required due to geographical variations. A style guide including a list of accessories to take along with you is also highlighted here.

Europe is a HUGE continent and there are variations across the continent in terms of climate. For ease of understanding, let’s split Europe into four (4) regions.

  1. Western Europe – They have an Oceanic climate, which is characterized by mild summers and winters. But frequent rains are expected, a lack of dry season, if you will. Countries like France, Netherlands, Germany, and Austria are some of the popular places in this region. We have been to all 4 countries mentioned here and it is unpredictable, trust us.
  2. Eastern Europe – Countries in this region are characterized by colder winters. Our Canadian winters can be compared to theirs. Their summer weather is more stable than winter weather (known as continental climate). Comrade countries (pun intended) include Russia, Hungary, Czech Republic, Romania, etc. Depending on the city, Hungary and Czech Republic can be treated as a part of Central Europe and their weather is similar to western Europe (mild weather with rains throughout – oceanic)
  3. Northern Europe – They experience a mix of continental and oceanic weather. Parts of the United Kingdom like England is more of an oceanic weather characteristic by rains and moderate temperatures throughout. If you go further north to Ireland and up to Iceland, rains although common, they experience dry months in May-June (unlike the oceanic feature) and their winters are colder (like continental). Iceland is definitely a mix of that and hence quite unpredictable.
  4. Southern Europe – Located by the Mediterranean with beaches and warm weather, you guessed it right the countries in southern Europe are different from the other areas of the continent. Their summers are HOT and winters are RAINY/wet – so either you get wet at the beach in summers and other times of the year and during winter, it’s raining! Well, this is the MEXICO of Europe – so if you are heading to Spain, Portugal or Gibraltar, carry swimwear and sunscreen and all things fun-in-the-sun.

A handy packing list is also included at the end of this post.

Ultimate Packing List for Europe

Packing List for Europe for all seasons - clothes and tips
Packing List for Europe for all seasons

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you click one of them, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.

First things first, let’s sort out how you will be carrying your travel items. In our humble opinion, we recommend taking only carry-on with you – whether it’s a backpack or a stroller. Reasons are simple: most airlines will charge if you are carrying additional luggage.

If you are only flying internationally and do not plan on traveling via regional flights (TAP Portugal or Ryanair and other low-cost airlines) then you are fine. You can carry a checked-in bag as per the carrier’s allowance. But most low-cost carriers won’t allow for that, so definitely factor that in. One carry-on is also ideal if you are traveling via inter-city or inter-regional trains while exploring Europe. More things to carry, more hassle it is.

Paris Eiffel Tower Girl in Red Dress
Europe Packing – In Paris

TRAVEL DOCUMENTS FOR EUROPE

Let’s start with the travel documents. Check your passport to ensure it is current and not expired. Typically European countries will require a passport with a validity of 3 months after the intended date of departure. But to be on the safer side, ensure you have 6 months validity on it. If you require a Schengen visa, get the visa approval process started at least a month prior to your booked trip.

Include any additional IDs like driver’s license, residency cards, or ID card with a photo on it. Organize and carry any additional documents pertaining to travel arrangements like hotel reservations, tours, or any specific addresses and itinerary guide.

If all of those documents are paperless and you intend to save it on your phone, double-check so that you got everything in there. Use an app like TripIt for itinerary planning and list. It is always good to carry a copy of your ticket and hotel reservation, should you phone stop working or you have issues in pulling the documents without wifi. Store all the travel documents and your passport in THIS – RFID protected document organizer.< Click here

Check out Document Organizer from Amazon


Check out Document Organizer – Luxury

TRAVEL INSURANCE FOR EUROPE

Travel Insurance is such an important part of any trip. We always insure our travels. We are pretty optimistic about our travels, but having an insurance plan means we are covered should anything weird come up. Travel insurance covers you against medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and delays provide accommodation and/or refund if you entirely cancel your trip.

Use the link below to find out a travel plan that works for you and your family. This tool will provide you with quotes. We have insured trips for as little as 4 USD a day. So definitely worth having that peace of mind.

Get travel insurance quotes for your trip here

Other than the essential documents (in an organizer), you will be of course carrying clothes, shoes, and toiletries. And you will need the main luggage bag. So let’s talk a little bit about that.

MAIN CARRY ON BACK PACK OR SUITCASE

Invest in a sturdy backpack or a suitcase for your travels to Europe. We enjoy carrying a large size backpack (40-45 L) to store all of our belongings. It will be BEST to be able to travel with just a carry-on – less hassle at the airport or savings on baggage fees.

  • Pacsafe Venturesafe Anti-theft back pack – Anti-theft travel backpacks are your BEST friend when you travel especially in Europe. The Pacsafe Venturesafe 45 litre is good size backpack to carry clothes for 10-12 days. This carry-on travel backpack has tons of storage space, in neat compartments to keep your essentials organized. It also comes with cut-proof material, lockable zippers, and an RFID blocking pocket to keep your credit cards and IDs safe. Buy here Pacsafe Venturesafe 45 litre

  • SwissGear Sion 21″ – Whenever we travel for business, we prefer carrying a carry-on suitcase/trolley. This Swiss Gear Sion 21 inch carry on is very spacious and can hold a lot. It is lightweight and has wheels, making it super easy to carry along at the airport. Being light, anyone (me included) can haul that to the cabin top compartment and bring it down with ease. Click here to buy Swiss Gear Sion 21 inch carry on

Essentials for long haul flights - All the carry on essentials for long flights, including checklists to travel easy and stay organised. This post contains all the essentials for long flights carry on bag like electronics, documents, cosmetics. Inspiration for long haul flight outfit and long haul flight essentials what to wear. Don't dread 20 hour long haul flight. With our experience, we have provided you will long haul flight tips and tricks for survival
Surviving long flights

We highly recommend that you travel and pack light, it makes the journey even more delightful.

DAY PACK OR PURSE FOR OUTINGS

For your day to day outings, guys can opt for an anti-theft daypack like this one. My pretty ladies choose a versatile anti-theft purse – cross body or shoulder bag – your choice. I wrote a whole post about it, so do take a look – BEST travel handbags out there.

We highly recommend anti-theft bags as they keep your belongings secure and out of sight from pickpockets and other elements. The anti-theft bags come with cut-proof and slash-proof material that hinders someone from getting access to your items.

Most bags also have RFID protection which means that when you carry your credit cards or other documents they are protected against identity theft. Some of the bags also come with guard protection, wherein you can attach the bag or backpack to a pole or chair.

Check out Anti-theft bags and purses from Amazon


The reason we have highlighted these details here is that MOST (not all), most European cities, especially the popular ones have a problem of over-tourism and theft.  The crowded old town or market squares are hot ground for thieves.

The same goes for crowded buses and trains (including overnight trains). You might get away by carrying a casual bag in probably Iceland, which is one of the safest places in Europe. But cities like Paris, Barcelona, Prague, etc you gotta be careful mate!

PACKING CUBES FOR EUROPE

Don’t forget your packing cubes. They come in a long way to keep your clothes organized and compressed. Using a packing cube, you will find that there is more space for your items. Give it a try. We have used a few over the years. Here are a few that we recommend. Currently, we are rocking this one from Eagle and Creek. BUY it here 


EXTRA BAG FOR SOUVENIRS AND SHOPPING

Carry an extra pack-able bag for bringing souvenirs or shopping items back home like this one below (duffel style). This packable duffel bag takes little to no space to pack it in and then fill it in with all the goodies from overseas. Click here to check out the bag

TECHNOLOGY FOR EUROPE

This technology list consists of items that a regular traveler would use. We consider ourselves as one of you – a traveler first (and a blogger). In all honesty, we don’t own heavy bulky cameras that break our neck nor do we carry 4 tripods and 6 different lenses. We love traveling light and smart and our technology list is also a reflection of that.

 

CELLPHONE AND SIM CARDS FOR EUROPE

So, cell phones are a MUST. We carry our iPhone and Android phones on our travels. We had never used cell services outside. We had relied on wifi for communication and calls and it had worked for us. If you have to carry a SIM card, here are some things to keep in mind.

  • Ensure your cellphone or smartphone is unlocked and can be used in Europe. Most of us are tied into a 2-year contract with Verizon or Virgin and they won’t work, unless if you have the phone unlocked.
  • If you are in a contract, you can buy a cheaper handset from Amazon only for Europe. Check this unlock cellphone here
  • Opt for pre-paid SIM cards in Europe – no contract, no exchange of personal data, and no expensive fees. It is pay peruse.
  • You can get a pre-paid card from any retail, news-stands, or grocery store.
  • Cost is about $5–10 which includes some prepaid calling credit.
  • Check the data included in these plans.

CAMERA FOR EUROPE

We use a Sony mirrorless camera and all of the pictures that you see here on the blog or Instagram are taken by our cell phones or mirrorless camera. Here is the mirrorless camera from Sony that we use and recommend.

The battery life on the camera is also good. It lasts us a whole day of photography. We do very little video recording, it is only still photos. For camera protection, use a neoprene cover like this one. They will protect the camera from scratches and marks, without adding the bulkiness.


MULTI-PORT CHARGING CABLES

Charging cables are so so important. Nowadays some hotels in Europe have ditched the plugs and only have a USB outlet to charge electronics. Carry this versatile multi-cable – BUY it here. With a single cable, you can charge the iPhone, Android, Sony camera, and more. This cable has a micro USB and a lightning port. And it is a space saver and one of our favorite travel pieces of all time.


BATTERY BACK UP

Carry a battery back up or a power bank to charge your electronics on the go. Buy your battery power bank here

SD CARDS

We highly recommend bringing a high capacity SD card. Ensure it fits the camera slot and is empty so that you can capture memories. Click here to buy a high capacity – 128 GB storage card. 

ADAPTOR AND CONVERTER FOR EUROPE

European plug points are different from North America and Asia. So a universal adaptor is a must-have item if you are a frequent traveler. We recommend this one.

If you are carrying shavers and hair dryers, you will need an electricity converter so that the voltage of your appliance matches the one in Europe. Remember, adaptors can be used for extended periods of time, let’s say charging your camera or phone overnight. A converter is meant for ad-hoc or required use only like while shaving, etc. Purchase your convertor here.


HEADPHONES

Headphones are a must for in-flight entertainment. And even for sleep. These noise-canceling headphones from Bose are my favorite. It is big, but it does provide awesome sound quality. They are also handy when you take guided tours or audio tours in Europe.

WORK AND ENTERTAINMENT

Here are some items that you may want to consider carrying with you, depending on personal interest. They include –

IN-FLIGHT COMFORT – PACKING LIST FOR EUROPE

Carry these items for in-flight comfort

READ: Our long haul flight essentials 

WATER BOTTLE FOR EUROPE TRAVEL PACKING LIST

Carry a water bottle with an in-built filter to use on your travels. This one here is super light and in places where you are unsure of the water, use the in-built filter to clean and have safe drinking water. View this on Amazon

MEDICATIONS PACKING LIST FOR EUROPE

Whenever you travel and wherever you travel, take your medications, if you require any. It is expensive to purchase them abroad and it may or may not match the recommended dosage you are on.

COSMETICS PACKING LIST FOR EUROPE

Here are some toiletries and cosmetics that you should carry. But firstly purchase a clear cosmetic or toiletry bag like this one. I have been re-using the same for a few years now and they are super handy when you have to take out your liquids for security checks. So definitely purchase one as a travel investment.

If you prefer a hanging toiletry bag, here is a recommendation – Make up bag is leak-proof and good for men and women!


Buy travel size shampoos and lotions or use these containers to carry your everyday favorite. I have included another clear bag brand here which is super cute and functional. Check it out below and click on the image to find out more.

Items for your cosmetics bag

Shop my beauty essentials

 

Pro Tips:

  • Carry basic jewelry, no expensive watches or earrings, nothing flashy.
  • Add a laundry bag and detergent sachet to wash clothes, if traveling for a long term and you are pack light.

WHAT CLOTHES TO PACK FOR EUROPE? PACKING LIST FOR EUROPE

Now the best part what clothes to pack for Europe and how to dress up and what to wear? We have included a seasonal breakdown of packing items below (listicle) as well as some outfit ideas.

TOPS

When you pack clothes for Europe for spring, stick to basic and neutral colors. They look classy and put together, without screaming, ‘hey! I am a tourist’. No loud graphics or designs. Plain and mono-colors, the better. That is true for ladies tops and men’s t-shirts.

I do recommend carrying dresses, mostly for pictures. But remember the weather on certain days might be colder – so if you don’t like dresses, don’t bother carrying them. If you do like, team them up with tights or carry a trench coat or jacket for cover-up. All kinds of dresses are fine for spring – dressy, long and short dress, flowery, short/long sleeves – no restrictions. Same goes for skirts.

So for tops, both for guys and gals – stick to basic and neutral colors. Nothing to loud or bright. Buy breathable fabric so that you are comfortable in flight or when you are out and about whole day. Lighter clothes also pack well and will dry faster when you wash.

You can wear tops, blouses, skirts, dresses, full length pants, whatever you fancy. Just be mindful of the colors and the graphic. No jerseys either.

Carry a combination of tops, blouses and dresses for all times of the year, all over Europe. For winters, wear thermals underneath your dresses or plaid skirts.

CARDIGAN

A cardigan is a MUST carry item to Europe in MOST seasons. You can probably skip this in the summer months in southern Europe or the Mediterranean. But between a cardigan or a waterproof (light) jacket, I would recommend carrying one piece in all seasons in Europe.

Click here to BUY my favorite cardigan in black. As always opt for basic and neutral colors like black, beige or white.

Click here to BUY cardigan for MEN

OUTERWEAR

Avoid wearing hoodies and gym wear for your outerwear and swap that for packable and lightweight trench coats and jackets. Invest in a piece that is water proof, is front zippered, and has pockets and in a color that goes with all outfits. Here are few examples

RAINWEAR (all 3 seasons, except winter) – To be honest, you will experience frequent rains in Europe more than anywhere else on earth. Problem is that it is unpredictable and it is NOT heavy rainfall like Indian monsoon, but there is rain. Oceanic climates are most dominant in Europe where both winters and summers are mild and rains are common. So if you are traveling to any region in Europe except for the Southern or Mediterranean, expect the rain spell. So a rain wear is a MUST.

For Southern Europe, carry a cardigan instead for fall, winter and spring. You can skip this for summer.

WINTERWEAR: 

For countries in the Western and Southern Europe, where winters are moderate, a nice wool coat or a jacket is good option to wear. Remember the winters in southern Europe are wet, so no wool coat there.

 

If you are visiting countries of Eastern Europe or heading for some winter activities in Northern Europe like Iceland, then opt for a good/warm parka or jacket. Responsibly filled down jacket is a way to go. Good to stick to basic colors, but add that pop of color if you are heading to snowy getaways.

For winter activities, like skiing, hiking and others opt for one of the jackets below (for additional packing items, check below for Winter Packing List. This section only talks about outerwear selection)

BOTTOMS

For bottoms, leave your shorts behind unless if you are going to the beach. Wear classy skirts or opt for dark wash jeans or linen pants. Dark colors mean they are maintenance-free (if they are wrinkle-free, even better). They also go with all sorts of tops and look great in pictures (slim fitting).

For men, avoid wearing cargo or three-quarter pants. Wear linen trousers if you find the weather to be too hot. Jeans are a great option as well.

COMFORTABLE WALKING SHOES

Europe is SO SO much walking on cobblestone lanes, and you have to carry comfortable shoes to enjoy the market squares, old town and the stunning countryside. When you select your travel shoes, choose neutral colors as well, ensure they have a solid comfortable insole. Cute sneakers and booties work well with dresses, skirts and jeans.

If you are heading to western, northern, and southern regions in the 3 seasons of summer, spring and fall, opt for a waterproof shoe. You can use an insole as well.  Click here to buy an insole for additional comfort. 

FOR WOMEN

FOR MEN

PACKING LIST FOR EUROPE IN SPRING

We have included travel packing lists for all 4 seasons. This is ideal for 4 – 7 days worth of travel.

Springtime in Europe is from March to May. The temperature during spring will stay around 5- 12 degrees Celsius for most places. So it is not hot-hot. Countries in the western and northern parts of Europe will experience rainy and gloomy days. 

Read: Visiting Prague in March 

Spring is also considered shoulder season, hence it is a GREAT time to travel. Prepare well and as long as you have a waterproof jacket and shoes, you will be more than fine!

Most of the popular destinations like Paris, London, Munich, Vienna will experience light showers in and out of the day. Waterproof jacket or trench coats are essential for your trip due to unexpected rains. Carry an umbrella or a poncho as well. Keep them in your day pack when you are out and about exploring.

Perfect Salzburg Itinerary 2 days - explore the old town including Mozart's birthplace, amazing views from Hohensalzburg Castle, Furst chocolates & more.(Liebster Award)
At the Hohensalzburg Fortress – Spring in Salzburg

Evenings could be chilly and if you have taking a river cruise like on the Seine or Danube – a cardigan to layer on and a scarf are a MUST.

Iceland in spring is a good time to visit as winter roads clear up and tourists are ready to watch the puffins and drive the ring road. Rains and cold weather are expected during this time.

SPRING IN EUROPE

Western Europe: High 15 C (58 F); Low 3 C (38 F)

Northern Europe: High 10 C (50 F); Low 2 C (35 F)

Eastern Europe: High 13 C (56 F); Low 2 C (35 F)

Southern Europe: High 19 C (67 F); Low 7 C (44 F)

Western Europe in spring experiences a high of 15 degrees Celsius (58 F) and a low of 3 degrees Celsius (38 F). Amsterdam, Brussels, Luxembourg City, and many places in Germany (like Berlin and Hamburg) experience moderate weather in winter. Rain and overcast days are common.

Spring in Northern Europe experiences colder temperatures than the rest of the continent. It has a high of 10 degrees Celsius (50 F) and a low of 2 degrees Celsius (35 F). Places include Moscow and others in Russia, Iceland, Oslo (Norway), and Minsk in Belarus. Exceptions include London and Dublin – where the temperatures are more like Western Europe for spring. Reykjavik is colder with a low of 0 degree Celsius.

Eastern Europe experiences similar temperatures like the western side, with a high of 13 degrees Celsius (56 F) and a low of 2 degrees Celsius (35 F). Cities include Budapest, Bucharest, Bratislava, and Prague.

Southern Europe is warmer, with temperatures of high of 19 degrees (67 F) and a low of 7 degrees (44 F). The warmest temperatures are experienced in Lisbon (Portugal) with low of 12 degrees (53 F), followed by Barcelona (Spain) with a low of 7 degree (44 F).

Very rarely would you experience negative temperatures in spring in Europe

Clothes

Other

  • Umbrella or poncho – Buy this windproof umbrella here
  • Sunglasses
  • Swim suit (if heading to the Southern part of Europe or planning on going to the Blue Lagoon – Iceland or thermal spas in Budapest)

Exceptions:

Iceland, Norway, Russia or up northern areas

  • Thermal layer – one pair.
  • Switch up your waterproof jacket for an insulated piece.
  • Also include winter essentials like beanie or warm cap, mittens
  • Add warm socks and boots

Travel Essentials (as discussed above)

 

PACKING LIST FOR EUROPE IN SUMMER

Summer is the best time to be in Europe, weather-wise. Less likelihood of rain or snow. Summer months are from June to August.

Super warm in southern Europe – Greece and Portugal are beautiful during this time. Popular western and central European countries experience patio and sundress season, tons of festivities and concerts happen during summer months. They are super busy months in terms of tourists, so don’t forget your anti theft bags and travel backpacks.

Carry your water bottle, drink water, stay hydrated.

SUMMER IN EUROPE

Western Europe: High 29 C (82.5 F); Low 18 C (59 F)

Northern Europe: High 21 C (70 F); Low 11 C (52 F)

Eastern Europe: High 28 C (82 F); Low 14 C (57 F)

Southern Europe: High 30 C (87 F); Low 16 C (61 F)

Western Europe Summers experience a high of 29 degree Celsius (82.5 F) and low of 18 degree Celsius (59 F). Paris, Vienna, Nice experience the warmest temperatures in the region.

Summer in Northern Europe has a high of 21 degree Celsius (70 F) and a low of 11 degree Celsius (52 F). Cities include Riga, Oslo, Vilnius and Stockholm.

Eastern Europe experiences a high of 28 degree Celsius (82 F) and a low of 14 degree Celsius (57 F). Cities include Budapest, Bucharest, Bratislava and Rostov-on-Don in Russia.

Southern Europe is the warmest in summers, with temperatures soaring to 30 degrees (87 F) and a low of 16 degrees (61 F). The warmest temperatures are experienced in Athens (Greece) and Valletta (Malta). Lower temperatures are common in Rome (Italy) and Tirana (Albania)

Clothes

Other

Travel Essentials (as discussed above)

PACKING LIST FOR EUROPE IN AUTUMN

Autumn months in Europe are from September to November. The weather and temperature around this time, is similar to spring time – it is a shoulder season so expect less crowds. Rains are again common in western and eastern parts of Europe. With rains and possible chill in the evenings, the temperature definitely cools down.

Rome Italy experiences warm climate for the most part of autumn and it is quite pleasant, but towards the end tail of fall months, it tends to get a bit chilly. Carrying 2 cardigans or a cardigan and V neck sweater is recommended so that you can use them as layering pieces should the temperatures drop too low. For dinners or night out, you can wear a warm sweater (minus the coat) for a classy look. Barcelona Spain and Lisbon Portugal are warm in autumn, a light cardigan is a back up for overnight trains or late night outings. Rains are unlikely. Towards November, the possibility of frequent rains and colder temperature is high. So if you are traveling in November, carry a waterproof insulated jacket or coat.

Paris France was gloomy all 4 days we were there in September, so a water proof trench coat is a must. Wear it over dresses or dark fitted jeans and tops. Keep a scarf and warm hat or a beret handy for evenings or early mornings. Amsterdam Netherlands experiences a lot of rain. Thankfully for our two days in Amsterdam we didn’t experience any rain, but it is good to be prepared. You can easily pair long dresses with denim or leather jacket. The temperature is not cold, but rain is a possibility; so a leather jacket can be styled with your outfit to ward off sudden rain splashes. Cardigan is handy, should the temperature drop too low in the evenings or towards the end tail of autumn season.

London England has a similar autumn season much like Paris – so carry waterproof outerwear preferably a trench coat. Add comfortable (and waterproof) booties to rock that sophisticated look. Iceland and some of the northern countries experience colder temperatures and shorter days as they make way for the winter season. In the northern countries of Europe, you may experience snow as well. So we recommend bringing insulated waterproof jacket.

AUTUMN IN EUROPE

Western Europe: High  19 C (66 F); Low 11 C (51 F)

Northern Europe: High 17 C (62 F); Low 6 C (42.8 F)

Eastern Europe: High 23 C (73 F); Low 12 C (53 F)

Southern Europe: High 28 C (83 F); Low 17 C (62 F)

Western Europe in autumn experiences a high of 19 degree Celsius (66 F) and low of 11 degree Celsius (51 F). Amsterdam, Paris, Brussels, Luxembourg City and many places in Germany experience rainy and overcast days in autumn.

Fall in Northern Europe experiences colder temperatures than rest of the continent. It has a high of 17 degree Celsius (62 F) and a low of 6 degree Celsius (42.8 F). Places include Moscow and others in Russia, Iceland, Oslo (Norway) and Minsk in Belarus. Exceptions include London and Dublin – where the temperatures are more like western Europe for fall and is rainy. Reykjavik is colder with a low of 0 degree Celsius (32 F) and almost feels like winter in late October.

Eastern Europe experiences similar temperatures like the western side, with a high of 23 degree Celsius (73 F) and a low of 12 degree Celsius (53 F). Cities include Budapest, Bucharest, and Bratislava experience western Europe like autumn.  Exception is Prague, with a low of 6 degrees – on the colder side of fall season.

Southern Europe is warmer with temperatures of high of 28 degrees (83 F) and a low of 17 degrees (62 F). The warmest temperatures are experienced in Athens (Greece), Lisbon (Portugal) and Barcelona (Spain).

Clothes

Other

  • Umbrella or poncho
  • Sunglasses
  • Swim suit

Travel Essentials (as discussed above)


 

PACKING LIST FOR EUROPE IN WINTER

Winter months in Europe are from December to February. Northern Europe will be coldest, as compared to the winters in western, eastern, or southern Europe, where the weather is much more tolerable.

Instead of packing TONS of clothing to stay warm, focus on a key piece – OUTERWEAR and layer on. Layering with thermals or long johns is essential to stay warm and enjoy Europe in winter. 

Christmas markets attract a lot of tourists to Europe. Wear a sweater dress, black warm leggings, wool coat, a warm hat and booties to rock the festive season. Not only Christmas celebrations, but there are also many things to do during winters in Paris, Iceland and Switzerland for a great vacation especially those who love to hit ski resorts in Europe. 

Warmest temperature in winter in Europe include places like Seville in Spain, Canary Islands, Corfu, and Athens in Greece. They are beach destinations and will stay warm during winters. Ensure you pack swimwear, flip-flops, beach towels, tote bag for the beach. You can ditch the woolen coats and parka and all the paraphernalia like gloves, warm cap, etc., but do carry a light waterproof jacket.

Read: Best winter destinations to visit in Europe 

WINTER IN EUROPE

Western Europe: High   C 7 (42 F); Low -1 C (30 F)

Northern Europe: High -6 C (20 F); Low -17 C (6 F)

Eastern Europe: High 0 C (32 F); Low -5 C (21 F)

Southern Europe: High 15 C (58 F); Low 6 C (40 F)

You can expect snow in all 3 regions (N, W, E – northern Europe being the coldest). And warmer weather in Southern Europe and little to no snow.

Western Europe winters are mostly mild. The temperature hovers in single digits, with a high of 7 degree Celsius (42 F) and low of -1 degree Celsius (30 F). Amsterdam, Brussels, Switzerland and many places in Germany (like Berlin and Cologne) experience moderate weather in winter.

Winter in Northern Europe experiences colder temperatures than rest of the continent. It has a high of -6 degree Celsius (20 F) and a low of – 17 degree Celsius (6 F). Places include Moscow and others in Russia, Iceland, and Minsk in Belarus. Exceptions include London and Reykjavik – where the temperatures are more like Western Europe for winters.

Eastern Europe experiences a cooler winter, with temperatures of a high of 0 degree Celsius (32 F) and a low of – 5 degree Celsius (21 F). Cities include Budapest, Bucharest, Bratislava and Prague.

Southern Europe is the warmest in winters, with temperatures of high of 15 degrees (58 F) and a low of 6 degrees (40 F). The warmest temperatures are experienced in Lisbon (Portugal), Barcelona (Spain), followed by Athens (Greece).

Clothes

Other

Exceptions

Southern Europe (Spain, Portugal) – Waterproof jacket and boots for Southern Europe – a MUST. Their winters are rainy and wet.

Travel Essentials (as discussed above)


 

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES ON OUR TRAVEL BLOG

Pin: Ultimate Packing List for Europe for all seasons 

Europe Packing Guide
Europe Packing Guide
Europe Packing List.
Europe Packing List.
 

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About Mayuri

Mayuri is the founder & editor of ToSomePlaceNew. An Indian-Canadian globetrotter, she has traveled to over 100 cities and 25+ countries. Mayuri has a graduate degree in History and is an MBA. She loves traveling the world, capturing historical nuances, and discussing that over a cup of coffee with her husband, Salil. She currently resides in Edmonton, Canada, and plots travel plans to Europe, the Americas, and beyond. 

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Comments

  2. Sara says

    Lots of great staples and seasonal recommendations on here! I feel like you covered all the staples that we always pack for convenience and staying connected. I’ve found that TJ Maxx is a great place to get items for layering for winter travel. I even found my beloved cuddle duds and cheap fleece lined tights there…. both of which do well-ish under the dresses I love to pack. My Ugg boots are the only thing that have kept my feet warm and dry on our winter trips. I got mine on super sale but they are definitely worth the investment! I’m still looking for a good hat and gloves though – the “freezing temperature” rated ones we bought last year were terrible.

    Reply

  5. Monica Sharma says

    This article is super impressive as it will save my lot of time thinking what to pack this post will surely help me in making my understand what all is required for the trip as I always end up packing extra things.

    Reply