Should we each bring our own suitcase?

No. One large checked bag plus two carry-ons is more efficient and cheaper than two checked bags. You share bulky items and split airline fees.

What if we have different packing styles?

Give each person their own packing cubes or half the checked suitcase. Compromise on shared items but let each person pack their clothes their way.

How do we handle laundry on the road?

Take turns doing laundry every 7-10 days. Most European cities have self-service laundromats, or your hotel can handle it for $15-25 per load.

What if one person packs much more than the other?

Set weight limits beforehand. Each person gets 25 pounds in the checked bag, plus their own carry-on. This prevents arguments and overweight fees.

How to Pack as a Couple for Europe

Pack one large suitcase and two carry-ons between you, sharing bulky items like chargers and toiletries while keeping personal essentials separate. Divide laundry duties and pack 7-10 days of clothes regardless of trip length.

Choose the right luggage setup. Pack one large checked suitcase (28-inch) and two carry-on bags between you both. The checked bag holds shared bulky items, while each person keeps essentials in their own carry-on. This prevents disaster if one bag gets delayed.
Divide shared items strategically. Put chargers, adapters, toiletries over 3.4oz, and laundry supplies in the checked bag. Each person carries their own phone charger, one day of medication, and underwear in their carry-on as backup.
Pack clothes for 7-10 days maximum. Bring 7-10 days of clothes regardless of trip length. Europe has laundromats and hotel laundry services everywhere. Focus on layers and versatile pieces that work for both walking and dining out.
Coordinate colors and styles. Choose 2-3 base colors that work for both of you (navy, black, gray). This lets you share accessories like scarves or jackets, and everything photographs well together.
Assign packing responsibilities. One person handles all electronics and chargers. The other handles toiletries and first aid. Both pack their own clothes and personal items. This prevents doubling up and forgotten essentials.
Pack a laundry kit. Bring detergent sheets or small liquid detergent, a universal sink stopper, and a travel clothesline. You'll do laundry every 7-10 days either in your accommodation or at a laundromat.

Should we each bring our own suitcase?: No. One large checked bag plus two carry-ons is more efficient and cheaper than two checked bags. You share bulky items and split airline fees.
What if we have different packing styles?: Give each person their own packing cubes or half the checked suitcase. Compromise on shared items but let each person pack their clothes their way.
How do we handle laundry on the road?: Take turns doing laundry every 7-10 days. Most European cities have self-service laundromats, or your hotel can handle it for $15-25 per load.
What if one person packs much more than the other?: Set weight limits beforehand. Each person gets 25 pounds in the checked bag, plus their own carry-on. This prevents arguments and overweight fees.