I know how overwhelming it can be trying to figure out your European summer packing essentials. I’ve been there.
Am I leaving something behind?
Am I going to love my outfits?
Do I have enough options?
But guess what? I’ve spent plenty of time perfecting my carry-on game, and I’m here to share my favorite carry-on packing tips for Europe that have made my travels so much easier. So let me show you how to build a minimalist travel wardrobe for Europe that’s fun, stylish, and totally practical.
Once you learn how to pack for a summer trip to Europe the right way, you can feel empowered and ready to explore every cobblestone street and hidden café. Trust me, I’ve got your back for an unforgettable summer adventure 😎
Packing won’t be a problem this time around!
Ready to learn about the 15 European summer packing essentials?
*This post contains affiliate links. Which means if you shop for certain things by clicking the links in this blog post, I receive a small commission at no extra cost to you! Thanks in advance for supporting Ways of Style!
Why Embrace a Minimalist Travel Wardrobe for Europe?
Adopting a minimalist travel wardrobe for Europe means choosing versatile pieces that mix and match easily. With limited space in your carry-on, every item must earn its spot. And trust me, you don’t want to bring a giant suitcase to Europe. (we’ll talk about that later)
Focus on quality over quantity so you’re ready for any occasion. My approach to a minimalist travel wardrobe ensures that you pack light without sacrificing style. You’ll see what I’m taking about 😉.
I promise that if you put in the effort to be intentional with your pre-packing process, you will be able to choose the right pieces, pack the perfect suitcase and create the most gorgeous vacation outfits!
How To Pick The Right Pieces For Summer In Europe?
✅ Fit & Comfort: Make sure every item fits well and is comfortable. You want to feel at ease exploring all day.
✅ Bold Bottoms & Neutral Tops: Use bottom pieces to experiment with bold prints and colors, while keeping your tops neutral for easy mixing and matching.
✅ Break in Your Shoes: Avoid traveling with brand-new shoes; break them in first to prevent any discomfort or surprises on the go.
✅ Travel-Friendly Toiletries: Pack very few toiletries and opt for travel-friendly skincare to keep your carry-on light and clutter-free.
✅ Versatility is Key: Choose pieces that transition smoothly from day to night, ensuring you’re ready for any adventure that comes your way.
✅ Mirror Selfies: Snap a quick mirror selfie of your final outfits to ensure each piece photographs beautifully and works with the overall vibe you’re going for.
OK, so without further ado, here are my top picks for the 15 European summer packing essentials!
Essential #1: A Button Down Linen Shirt
Whenever I’m planning my summer trips to Europe, I NEVER leave home without my button down linen shirt. It’s one of my absolute European summer packing essentials and a total game changer when it comes to creating a minimalist travel wardrobe for Europe.
⭐️ Styling Tips & Outfit Ideas:
✅ Daytime Explorer: Wear your button down shirt with a midi skirt and flat sandals. Add a crossbody bag to keep your hands free as you wander through charming European streets.
✅ Effortless Chic: Layer it open over a basic tank top, pair with flowy wide-leg pants, and finish with a pair of stylish flat sandals. Perfect for those spontaneous café stops and casual dinners.
✅ Beach-to-Street Transition: Throw it over your one-piece bathing suit as a chic cover-up, add a straw hat and a foldable tote bag, and you’re ready to go from poolside to evening strolls without missing a beat.
🌈 Which Color? For ultimate versatility, I love choosing classic neutrals like crisp white or soft off-white. They’re timeless and pair with just about everything.
🛍️ Where to Buy Them: This is my favorite store for high quality, affordable linen button down shirts (and linen pieces in general).
European Summer Essential #2: A Linen Matching Set!
I know I’m recommending linen back-to-back since my button down linen shirt is already a staple, but a matching set truly earns its spot in my minimalist travel wardrobe for Europe. It’s one of my absolute carry-on packing essentials when I’m figuring out how to pack for a summer trip.
⭐️ Styling Tips & Outfit Ideas:
✅ Cultural Day Out: Pair it with comfy flat sandals and a compact crossbody bag. Perfect for museum visits or browsing local markets.
✅ Alfresco Evening: For a relaxed, chic vibe, keep it simple with minimal jewelry and flat leather sandals, ideal for sitting outside with a glass of wine and people watching.
🌈 Which Color? For this set, I like to mix it up a bit. Instead of the usual off-white or beige, I often go for a soft navy or earthy olive. Think of colors that feel fresh yet timeless.
🛍️ Where to Buy? Same brand as the linen shirt! They have so many cute DIY linen matching sets! You can mix and match any of their linen tops and bottoms because they make them in the same colors!
#3 A Midi Dress:
I absolutely love a sleeveless midi dress like this one. It’s a total game-changer in my minimalist travel wardrobe for Europe. It’s light, fun, and perfectly suited for those spontaneous adventures, making it a must-have in my carry-on.
Plus, it looks good on almost every body shape! Check the reviews and take a look at all the photos people have submitted!
⭐️ Styling Tips & Outfit Ideas:
✅ City Stroll: Pair it with comfy flat sandals, a straw hat and a crossbody bag.
✅Casual Layering: On cooler evenings, layer it with a denim jacket to keep the style fresh and cozy.
✅ Dinner Date: Elevate the look with statement jewelry and a bold colored lipstick for a chic evening out.
🌈 Which Color? I lean towards timeless shades like deep navy or classic black that effortlessly mix and match with my other pieces, though a bold color like burgundy or magenta can be a fun twist too! It all depends on which other pieces you have in your suitcase. A printed option can be great too!
🛍️ Where to Buy? Here’s the link to a beautiful and super flattering midi dress – and you can browse some other great options here.
European Summer Packing Essential #4: A Midi Skirt!
You can’t go on a European summer adventure without a midi skirt! It’s a classic piece that always makes you look stylish and fits perfectly in your carry-on. It’s one of your must-have items when curating a minimalist travel wardrobe for Europe.
You can wear it for every day explorations, they’re perfect when entering religious sites (because they cover your knees) and you’ll stay fresh, even in the hottest days!
⭐️ Styling Tips & Outfit Ideas:
✅ City Chic: Pair your midi skirt with a tucked-in basic tank top and flat sandals for a look that’s perfect for wandering art galleries or charming streets.
✅ Market Day: Team it up with a casual tee and your favorite comfy sneakers, and add a lightweight scarf for an extra dash of personality.
✅ Evening Out: Tie your button down shirt with a front knot, add chic accessories and flat leather sandals for a refined yet relaxed dinner vibe.
🌈 Which Color? For your midi skirt, experiment with bold prints/colors or with interesting fabrics/cuts. Like the pleated one in the photos above. Just make sure the color or print you choose matches with ALL your tops!
🛍️ Where to Buy? Check out some super fun midi skirts here. Or you can browse this page if you’re on a tighter budget.
Clothing Item #5: Flowy Wide Leg Pants!
I can’t imagine a summer in Europe without flowy wide leg pants. They’re a key part of any European summer packing essentials list.
Wide leg pants will add unbeatable comfort and a fun burst of style to your carry-on, perfect for sun-soaked days and cool evening strolls.
⭐️ Styling Tips & Outfit Ideas:
✅ Vacation Vibes: Team them with a playful crop top and Birkenstocks for a carefree look that’s ready for sightseeing or a casual outdoor hangout.
✅ Travel Comfort: Pair them with a fitted tank top and your favorite sneakers to cruise through bustling city streets.
✅ Evening Upgrade: Tuck in a crisp button-down or breezy blouse and slip into chic flat sandals for a relaxed dinner vibe.
🌈 Which Color? Stick with classic neutrals like black, brown, navy, or olive for endless mix-and-match options, or go bold with a vibrant colored pair if you’re feeling adventurous (just make sure it works with all your tops)
🛍️ Where to Buy? Check these ones out. Again, you can travel with a linen one, but if you already got that one as a part of your top & bottom set, then try a different cut and fabric for versatility.
#6 👉🏻 Basic Tank Tops Or Camis:
No summer packing list is complete without a couple of basic tank tops or camis. They’re a core part of your European summer packing essentials. These pieces are perfect for light layering or wearing on their own, making them ideal for those warm days and cool-ish evenings.
⭐️ Styling Tips & Outfit Ideas:
✅ Layered Look: Wear a tank top under a denim jacket or open button-down shirt for an easy, breezy look.
✅ Casual Cool: Pair your cami with high-waisted shorts and comfy sneakers for a relaxed day of sightseeing.
✅ Versatile Vibes: Use them as a base for statement accessories like statement earrings or a pashmina to transform your outfit from day to night.
🌈 Which Color? Stick with classic neutrals like white, black, or navy for maximum versatility, but feel free to throw in a pop of color if you’re in the mood for something fun. Just make sure it matches all your bottoms!
🛍️ Shopping Advice: Look for high quality fabrics that hold up well after a day of travel and are comfortable for long hours of wear. This way it doesn’t look like a regular tank top any more. You can check out these silk options to see what I’m talking about.
European Summer Packing Essential #7: A One-Piece Bathing Suit
You need a one-piece bathing suit that’s stylish enough to double as a bodysuit. This is one of your key European summer packing essentials. I always look for a bathing suit that I can pair with multiple bottoms, so I can easily skip the extra top and still create a polished look.
⭐️ Styling Tips & Outfit Ideas:
✅ Poolside to Street: I love pairing my one-piece bathing suit with a midi skirt for a smooth transition from lounging by the pool to a casual brunch. You can also pair it with high-waisted shorts for an easy, chic vibe.
✅ Mix & Match Magic: Make sure your bathing suit works with at least two different bottom pieces, like flowy wide-leg pants or a linen matching set to keep your outfit options fresh.
🌈 Which Color? I recommend a fun one. If you’re in the mood to stand out, a bold print can add a fun twist to your travel wardrobe.
🛍️ Where to Buy? Look for a suit that offers great support and a flattering cut so you feel confident all day long. This is where I shop for all my bathing suits! (the one in the photos above is from the same store)
Your Dream Europe Packing List is Just 2 Questions Away – Let’s Make It Happen!
Simplify your travel planning today: answer these 2 quick questions about your trip and I’ll send you the ultimate Europe packing list tailored to your own needs. It’s that easy – let’s get started ⬇️
Item #8: A Chic Cover-Up!
You might think you need more than one cover-up for your summer trip, but trust me, one stylish piece is enough.
Remember, on some days you won’t even need a cover-up because you’ll be rocking your one-piece bathing suit as your main look, or you might opt for a dress, or even a tank top paired with linen pants or shorts. You’ll be just fine :)
⭐️ Styling Tips & Outfit Ideas:
✅ Poolside Chic: I love pairing my cover-up with my one-piece bathing suit for a smooth transition from lounging by the pool to a quick bite at a nearby café.
🌈 Which Color? Have fun with a printed one! Just make sure to pick one that’s lightweight.
🛍️ Where to Shop? This site has super cute ones. And I also love this one, I have it in my shopping cart! Bonus points if you bring one that you can also rock as a dress for an evening out.
#9 – The Timeless Birkenstocks!
Waterproof Birkenstocks are an absolute essential for your European summer packing essentials. They keep your feet comfortable while looking cute! I love them for their reliability and the fun twist they add to any look.
⭐️ Why You’ll Love Them:
✅ They offer unbeatable comfort for long days of exploring, even when the weather is unpredictable.
✅ Their waterproof design means you’re ready for sudden rain or beach days.
🌈 Which Color? Instead of the basic tones, go for a fun color that makes a statement. Think vibrant red or a playful pastel to add a pop to your outfits.
🛍️ Where To Shop? Here you can find Birkenstocks in super cute colors! I’ve had 2 pairs. Dark green ones which lasted me 2+ years of almost every day use, and the orange ones which are the ones I have right now.
#10 Flat Leather Sandals:
Flat leather sandals will be your go-to shoes for evenings out on your European adventures. I recommend choosing a pair that seamlessly matches every bottom piece and dresses in your suitcase.
⭐️ Here’s my advice for selecting the perfect pair:
✅ Safety & Comfort: Make sure that you opt for a pair with a grippy sole to handle cobblestone streets and slippery surfaces, and be sure to break them in before your trip.
✅ Go-Anywhere Style: Choose a design that keeps your look chic and suits your travel vibe.
✅ Versatility: Make sure that they work with all your bottom pieces and dresses so you can mix and match without a second thought.
🛍️ Where to Shop? I have my eyes on these ones. They have great reviews, I know the brand is great and they have the perfect soles for Europe.
Chic European Summer Essential #11: A Crossbody Bag!
⭐️ Why You Need It? A crossbody bag with a zipper is one of your must-have European summer packing essentials because it keeps your valuables secure and your hands free as you explore your destination.
I love how it makes me feel both safe and stylish when I’m out exploring new cities. It’s very important that you don’t look like the child poster of a tourist. That’s the best way to not be targeted by pick pockets.
🛍️ Where To Shop? This is the one I have right now and I honestly love it for traveling (and for life). It’s great quality, not crazy expensive and matches with literally everything in my closet/suitcase.
You can browse other cute crossbody bags here. (again, make sure it has a zipper!)
Item #12 – A Straw Hat:
⭐️ Why You Need It? A straw hat isn’t just about blocking the sun, it’s a standout piece on your European summer packing essentials list. It adds a breezy, vacation-ready vibe to any outfit and keeps you cool when you’re out in the heat.
I always grab a straw hat to instantly lift my travel looks and protect my face from those strong European rays. My head gets so crazy hot when it’s sunny and it gives me a headache, so I always need to be wearing a hat if I’m out and about on hot summer days.
🛍️ Where To Shop? I put together some great options from Nordstrom here. Pick a style that you love!
European Summer Travel Essential #13: A Foldable Tote Bag!
⭐️ Why You Need It? You definitely want a foldable tote bag in your European summer packing essentials, especially for those beach days. Instead of dragging around a bulky beach bag that you’ll only use a couple of times, a foldable tote is light, compact, and pops out just when you need it.
It’s perfect for carrying your beach essentials like sunscreen, sunnies, your wallet and maybe even a snack, without taking up precious space in your carry-on.
🛍️ Where To Shop? I’ve had my trusty Lacoste foldable tote for over 10 years. I’m emotionally attached to it LOL – but if I had to buy one today, this $13 one from Amazon would be it!
Must Have #14 – A Small Carry-On!
⭐️ Why You Need It? Your carry-on is a game-changer for summers in Europe. I use this Level8 20′ carry-on that’s not only beautiful but also has an ultra-wide handle that makes packing a breeze.
Trust me, skip the checked bag! European airports can be crazy (and strikes are almost a given), plus you’ll likely be hopping on trains where a bulky bag is a hassle. With this compact carry-on, you can travel light and stress-free, knowing everything you need is right there with you.
I can teach you exactly how to pack with a carry-on inside my top performing workshop!
🛍️ Where To Shop? I highly recommend Level8 for their top-notch carry-ons that are designed for savvy travelers. Their pieces are crafted to make every step of your journey smoother, from the packing process to navigating busy terminals. Plus, these suitcases are incredibly easy to maneuver!
What To Read Next?
- Personal items & travel – Everything you need to know!
- How to survive long travel days like a pro!
- How to simplify your toiletry bag.
#15 – Travel Friendly Skincare:
Travel friendly skincare means using a few key products that are compact, effective, and easy to pack.
I keep my routine simple with three must-haves: an antioxidant balm to protect against environmental stress, a plumping cream for hydration, and a plumping serum for that extra boost of radiance. This trio ensures that even after long days of sightseeing, my skin stays fresh, glowing, and ready for the next adventure. (seriously, just 3 products!)
🛍️ Where To Shop? I rely solely on Primally Pure for all my travel-friendly skincare needs. (you can use code WAYSOFSTYLE10 for 10% off your entire order!)
👉🏻 Also read: Everything you need to know about travel friendly skincare!
Summer In Europe Packing Essentials Checklist: (15 items)
Clothing:
✅ Button Down Linen Shirt
✅ Linen Matching Set
✅ A Midi Dress
✅ A Midi Skirt
✅ Flowy Wide Leg Pants
✅ Basic Tank Tops/Camis
Swimwear:
✅ One Piece Bathing Suit
✅ Swim Cover-Up
Footwear:
✅ Waterproof Birkenstocks
✅ Flat Sandals
Accessories:
✅ Crossbody Bag with a Zipper
✅ A Straw Hat
✅ Foldable Tote Bag
Other Travel Essentials:
✅ High Quality Carry-On (a small one)
✅ Travel Friendly Skincare
🧳 Why I Recommend a Carry-On for Summer in Europe:
- It’s easy to maneuver through busy streets and crowded public transport.
- Airports in Europe can be chaotic in the summer, so I’d rather not risk losing my bag.
- Many taxis charge extra for bags, and if you’re headed somewhere hilly (like our experience in Dubrovnik), you might not get dropped off right at your door.
- Packing light means less hassle overall, giving you more freedom to explore without extra baggage worries.
- Why bring a bag full of things you won’t wear?
Final thoughts:
As you prepare for your next adventure, remember that these 15 European summer packing essentials are more than just items in a suitcase, they’re your ticket to freedom and fun.
When you pack smart and light, you’re setting yourself up to explore every charming street, sun-drenched café, and hidden gem with confidence. Each piece in your bag is chosen to empower you to travel without worry, so you can focus on soaking up every unforgettable moment of your trip!
Let your carefully curated travel wardrobe be a reminder that you’re ready for anything. Whether that means spontaneous adventures or well-planned explorations.
Trust in your style, enjoy every step of the way (including packing 😅), and enjoy everything that Europe has to offer!
Safe travels and thanks so much for being here,
XO,
Aimara
🎯 PS: let’s pack together inside my workshop! It’s a super fun environment and you’ll master packing light forever!
About The Author:
Hi, my name is Aimara and I am the voice behind Ways of Style. I was born and raised in Venezuela until the age of 27 when I moved to Chicago, and 2 years later I met my best friend and husband. We now travel full time and live out of a carry-on bag, so believe me, I know a thing or two about how to maximize every single piece I own.
I love creating new looks, and looking cute while I’m traveling. And in this blog, I try to share all my looks, even if I don’t have the best photos ;) My goal is to help you maximize every piece you have in your closet and to encourage you to live with less things.
Other Posts You Will Like:
- 10 items you WON’T need In Europe in Spring & Summer
- How to downsize from checked bag to carry-on!
- 7 most common packing mistakes women make all the time!
- The ultimate guide to styling linen!
- 13 most forgotten travel items!
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*This post contains affiliate links. Which means if you shop for certain things by clicking the links in this blog post, I receive a small commission at no extra cost to you! Thanks in advance for supporting Ways of Style!
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