If you’re looking for a Europe packing list that fits in a carry-on, you’re in the right place. I’ve traveled to Europe with just a carry-on for over a decade, and I truly believe it’s the best way to travel!
This guide breaksdown exactly how to pack for Europe in a carry-on, organized and designed to remove all the guesswork. From choosing the right carry-on bag and understanding airline restrictions to knowing what shoes ot pack for Europe and how to build chic outfits that work across multiple cities, this is your complete Europe packing list that takes all the stress out of packing!
From climbing narrow staircases in old hotels to navigating busy train stations and cobblestone streets, traveling with less luggage makes every part of the journey smoother!
Whether you are visiting Spain, visiting France, visiting Hungary, or visiting Greece, you can check out all our packing lists here!
Why Packing Carry-On Only for Europe Is the Best Decision
You might be asking, why would I want to pack for 10 days in Europe with just a carry-on?
First, European airlines are known for strict baggage policies (under 18 lbs), which often include one personal item that fits under the seat! It’s not uncommon to have your bag weighed before security, particularly in cities like Paris.
Second, there’s the reality of traveling around Europe. Most 10-day European itineraries involve multiple cities, trains, and metro systems. That means stairs (lots of them), narrow platforms, and cobblestone streets.
Packing carry-on only saves you money on baggage fees and eliminates the risk of lost luggage. It also saves you time! Packing light keeps you mobile, makes train travel easier, and allows you to move quickly between hotels, Airbnbs, and destinations.
Choosing the Right Carry-On Bag for Europe
One of the most important decisions when packing for Europe, carry-on only, is choosing the right type of bag. The best option depends entirely on how you’re traveling.
Carry-On Backpack
New carry-on backpacks are now frequently used by people in Europe, who once used them as a luggage option for budget backpackers. Best if you are visiting multiple cities, taking trains across Europe, or staying in Airbnb’s.
The carry-on backpack will be a lifesaver if you are navigating train travel or visiting cities such as Venice!
Carry-On Roller Suitcase
A carry-on roller suitcase is best if you are staying in one or two cities, staying in hotels, and using taxis or car services.
If this sounds like your trip, I suggest a hard-shell carry-on with 4 wheels and a zipper expansion in case you choose to bring back a few too many souvenirs.
Travel Essentials You Should Never Skip
Packing travel essentials is just as important for how to pack for Europe without checking a bag, as the clothing! Below is a list of my non-negotiable European vacation essentials that I have perfected after many trips.
- Universal travel adapter with multiple USB-C and USB ports
- RFID travel wallet
- Portable battery charger -There’s nothing worse than sightseeing all day with a dead phone.
- Cheap compact umbrella – European weather is unpredictable. A lightweight, inexpensive umbrella is a lifesaver instead of lugging around large hotel umbrellas.
- Packing cubes with compression -A true game-changer for carry-on only travel.
- Vacuum compression bags are also great for winter trips.
- Noise-canceling headphones
- Travel-size makeup and skincare, I actually love to buy skincare products in Europe, so I often just purchase them when I arrive!
- A crossbody bag
Here are the 15 best things to buy from Amazon before your next trip!
What Shoes to Pack for Europe
Shoes are the easiest way to over-pack and the fastest way to take up limited bag space. For trips of 10 days or less, I recommend three pairs of shoes. Below is exactly what shoes to wear for Europe based on the season!
Sneakers (Your Most Important Pair)
This is the pair you wear on the plane. Choose something broken-in, supportive, and neutral.
I love white sneakers because they work with dresses, trousers, and skirts. You can also swap out insoles for extra cushioning. Sneakers will be your most-worn shoes in Europe, hands down.
Some of my favorite travel sneakers include Veja, Sambas, or white leather shoes!
Seasonal Shoe: Sandals or Boots
- Spring & Summer: Neutral leather sandals
- Fall & Winter: Ankle boots. A leather moto boot works well. Avoid suede in rain or snow.
Final Option: Based on Your Travel Style
- Spring/Fall: Loafers or ballet flats
- Summer: Espadrilles
- Winter: Snow boots (only if necessary)
Unless you’re attending a formal event, skip heels. You’ll rarely wear them in Europe.
What to Pack for Europe by Season
Below is my European packing list shows how packing changes by season, with a simple formula of what is needed to avoid overpacking! We have everything you need to know about what to wear in Europe with just a carry on!
Spring (March–May)
The weather can change quickly. Here is our outfit guide for a European Spring Visit!
- Lightweight layers
- Jean Jacket
- Sneakers, flats, or loafers
- Scarf or sweater for visits to churches
Summer (June–August)
While the days might be warm, Europe still has cooler nights. This list will depend on where you are headed. Whether packing for a beach vacation or a city getaway, we have you covered with your ultimate Europe summer outfit guide!
- Linen tops and dresses
- Breathable trousers or skirts
- Leather sandals + sneakers
- Sun hat and sunglasses, swimsuit
Fall (September–November)
One of my favorite times to visit Europe is during the “offseason” of fall. Think of cooler mornings, mild afternoons.
- Ankle boots
- Light knits and sweaters
- Blazer or jacket
- Scarf
Winter (December–February)
Depends heavily on the destination; while southern Europe will be warmer, Northern Europe will be a winter wonderland. Checkout our guide on what to wear to Christmas Markets!
- Thermal base layers
- Warm coat
- Waterproof boots
- Hat, gloves, scarf, and a bonus is electric hand warmers
This seasonal awareness helps you avoid overpacking while still being prepared. One of the biggest mental blocks to packing light is laundry, but in Europe, it’s surprisingly easy.
Plan to do laundry once during your 10-day trip, and you’ll instantly cut your packing list in half!
The European Capsule Wardrobe
The secret to packing for Europe in a carry-on is planning. My favorite thing about utilizing a capsule wardrobe, aside from overpacking, is that it allows me to create multiple outfits from the same pieces!
Color Palette
Stick to neutral colors for basics, with a few pops of color, especially in summer or spring! So what do you pack? Here is my travel capsule wardrobe for Europe! And this will depend on season as well as the itinerary, but below is my basic formula to have chic outfits for Europe.
Tops (6–8 Total)
- 1 tank top
- 2 t-shirts
- 1 button-down shirt
- 2 dressier or evening tops
- 1 cashmere sweater
Bonus: I wear an oversized t-shirt on the plane that I can also wear when lounging at a hotel or Airbnb.
Bottoms (4 Total)
- 1 pair of jeans
- 1 pair of black pants or trousers
- 1 skirt
- Linen shorts (summer only)
Bonus – a pair of leggings for plane or train travel
Dresses ( 2 to 4)
- 2-4 dresses (style depends on season)
Layers
- Blazer (instantly elevates any outfit)
- For winter: scarf, hat, gloves
- For Summer: Swimsuit
- Coat or Jean Jacket, depending on the season
Other Essentials
- Pajamas
- 12 pairs of underwear (I always overpack here!)
- 2 bras
- Pair of stockings – perfect for spring and fall
- 12 pairs of thin socks ( I love having extras)
- Hat (baseball cap for warm months, wool hat for winter)
How a Capsule Wardrobe Works – Outfit Suggestions
Here’s how these pieces mix and match effortlessly. So, we’re going to give you a complete guide, plus shoes, accessories, and 15 outfit ideas that will take the guesswork out of a carry-on only packing list for Europe!
Below are a few of my favorite travel combos that I have perfected after years of travelling! Just a few suggestions based on the itinerary or season that you can make your own!
Sightseeing day: T-shirt + Jeans + sneakers + button-down
This is your go-to outfit for exploring new cities, which is polished enough to have you feel put together in any European city.
Museum day: Skirt + Button Down + Boots
This outfit is perfect for museum hopping or visiting historic sites that feel chic yet comfortable!
Causal Dinner : Sweater + Trousers + Loafers
An easy yet elevated look for dinner that feels stylish without being overdressed. Perfect for a night out or a wine bar!
Dinner out: Dress + blazer + ballet flats
This is an effortlessly elegant evening outfit that works for any evening out in Europe! Plus, it is easy to achieve with the basics you have packed.
Travel day: Leggings + t-shirt + sneakers + blazer
Comfort is key on travel days; however, Europeans are often more polished than Americans. This is pefect outfit for train travel or air travel.
A day at the markets or shopping: Dress + ballet flats
A dress paired with a sweater or jacket and ballet flats is the ideal outfit for exploring Europe when the weather is gorgeous out!
Spring Outfit –Dress + sneakers + sweater
This is a classic European Spring look, comfortable for walking, and has easy layers!
Summer Outfit: Linen Shorts + tank top + sneakers
Lightweight and breathable, linen is perfect for warm summer days, with a button-down to wear into churches or museums.
Fall Outfit : Jeans + sweater + ankle boots
A timeless fall outfit that works for cafes, museums, and everything in between. The neutral color palette elevates a simple outfit.
Fall Outfit : Skirt + Jacket + scarf + Boots
This layered look adds texture while feeling stylish for cooler fall weather. Very chic for cities like Milan, Paris, or Rome.
Winter Outfit : Base layer + sweater + trousers + boots
Outfits in the winter are all about keeping warm! This outfit is all about dressing in layers to keep you warm and comfortable while still looking put together in a snowy destination.
Final Thoughts: Packing Light Is the Ultimate Travel Upgrade
Packing light for Europe isn’t about giving things up; it’s about traveling smarter. With the right shoes, the right bag, and a thoughtfully planned capsule wardrobe, packing for Europe carry-on only is not only possible but also ideal.
Trust us, once you try packing in a carry-on bag, you will never want to go back to checking luggage and lugging heavy suitcases all over Europe.
Save our carry-on only packing list for Europe, to use as your Europe suitcase checklist, and travel lighter and save time. And, if you are not quite ready to pack in a carry-on, see our 10-day in Europe packing list!
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