Should I pack for a month or a week?

Pack for one week. You will have access to laundromats or sinks in almost every European city. Carrying less weight is worth more than having extra clean shirts.

Do I really need to limit shoes to two pairs?

Yes. Shoes are the heaviest and bulkiest items in your luggage. Wear your bulkiest pair on the plane and pack one versatile, comfortable pair.

How to Pack Clothing for a Family Trip to Europe

Prioritize a capsule wardrobe based on a strict color palette so every piece of clothing matches. Use compression packing cubes to divide outfits by family member or day, and cap your luggage at one carry-on sized suitcase per person to remain mobile on trains and cobblestones.

Build a color-coordinated base. Select one neutral base color (black, navy, or tan) and two accent colors. Every top you pack must match every bottom. If it doesn't coordinate, leave it home.
The 5-4-3-2-1 rule. Per person, pack: 5 tops, 4 bottoms, 3 pairs of socks/underwear per person (plus laundry soap for sink washing), 2 pairs of shoes (one worn, one packed), and 1 jacket. This covers 7-10 days if you wash clothes once.
Use compression cubes by person. Assign a specific color of packing cube to each family member. Roll clothes tightly to prevent wrinkles and maximize space. If a cube doesn't zip closed, remove items until it does.
Verify your footwear. Europe involves 15,000+ steps a day on uneven surfaces. Ensure every adult has broken-in sneakers with arch support. Avoid brand-new shoes; you will get blisters.

Should I pack for a month or a week?: Pack for one week. You will have access to laundromats or sinks in almost every European city. Carrying less weight is worth more than having extra clean shirts.
Do I really need to limit shoes to two pairs?: Yes. Shoes are the heaviest and bulkiest items in your luggage. Wear your bulkiest pair on the plane and pack one versatile, comfortable pair.