How much should kids carry in their own backpack?

Pack 10-15% of their body weight maximum. A 60-pound child should carry no more than 6-9 pounds including water bottle. Focus on their personal entertainment items and one change of clothes.

What if we forget something important?

European pharmacies stock most children's medications and baby supplies. Department stores like H&M, Zara, and local chains sell affordable kids' clothing. Supermarkets carry familiar snack brands.

Do we need special gear for European public transport?

Bring a small folding stroller if your child still uses one - European cobblestones are challenging for wheels. Pack a small day bag that zips securely for metro travel. No car seats needed for taxis in most European cities.

How many shoes should kids bring?

Maximum three pairs: walking shoes, sandals, and one dress shoe if needed. European cities require serious walking - comfort trumps fashion. Bring shoes they've worn for at least 20 hours at home.

What to Pack for Kids Traveling to Europe in Summer

Pack layers for variable weather, comfortable walking shoes, entertainment for long travel days, and essential documents in carry-on. Focus on versatile pieces that mix and match, plus specific items like European outlet adapters and any prescription medications with proper documentation.

Start with documentation and medical essentials. Pack passports, travel insurance documents, and copies in your carry-on. Bring prescription medications in original containers with doctor's note. Pack a basic first aid kit with children's pain reliever, band-aids, and any allergy medications.
Plan clothing for layering. Pack 1 week's worth of underwear and socks, 3-4 t-shirts, 2 long-sleeve shirts, 1 sweater or hoodie, 2 pairs of pants/shorts, 1 dress or nice outfit. Add a light rain jacket and one warm layer for air conditioning or cool evenings.
Choose footwear carefully. Bring one pair of broken-in walking shoes (most important item), one pair of sandals, and dress shoes if needed. Kids will walk 15,000+ steps daily in European cities. Never bring new shoes.
Pack travel entertainment. Download movies/games for flights, bring headphones, small toys, coloring books, and tablet chargers. Pack snacks they like for emergencies. European flights often don't provide kids' meals automatically.
Add Europe-specific items. Pack Type C and Type F outlet adapters, portable phone charger, small day backpack for each child, and reusable water bottle. Many European cities have excellent public fountains.

How much should kids carry in their own backpack?: Pack 10-15% of their body weight maximum. A 60-pound child should carry no more than 6-9 pounds including water bottle. Focus on their personal entertainment items and one change of clothes.
What if we forget something important?: European pharmacies stock most children's medications and baby supplies. Department stores like H&M, Zara, and local chains sell affordable kids' clothing. Supermarkets carry familiar snack brands.
Do we need special gear for European public transport?: Bring a small folding stroller if your child still uses one - European cobblestones are challenging for wheels. Pack a small day bag that zips securely for metro travel. No car seats needed for taxis in most European cities.
How many shoes should kids bring?: Maximum three pairs: walking shoes, sandals, and one dress shoe if needed. European cities require serious walking - comfort trumps fashion. Bring shoes they've worn for at least 20 hours at home.