How much should my packed backpack weigh?

Aim for 15-20 pounds total. Anything over 25 pounds becomes painful after walking a few miles with it. Pack for one week, then remove half of what you think you need.

Should I bring hiking boots for Europe?

Only if you're planning serious hiking. Comfortable walking shoes work for 90% of European travel. Bring shoes you can walk 8+ miles in on cobblestones.

Can I ship things home if I buy too much?

Yes, but it's expensive. Shipping a 5-pound package from Europe to the US costs $40-80. Buy smart or accept that some purchases stay behind.

Do I need different clothes for different countries?

No. Western Europeans dress similarly across countries. Skip country-specific outfits and focus on comfortable, versatile pieces that work everywhere.

How to Pack for Long-Term Europe Travel

Pack one 45L backpack with 2-3 weeks of clothing, focusing on layers and merino wool basics. Bring electronics for multiple plug types, and pack light since you can buy anything you need across Europe.

Choose the right bag. Get a 45-50L backpack with front-loading access. Avoid wheeled luggage—European cobblestones and hostel stairs will destroy wheels. Test the pack loaded with 15-20 pounds before you leave.
Pack 2-3 weeks of clothing maximum. Bring 3 merino wool t-shirts, 2 button-down shirts, 1 warm layer, 2 pairs of pants, 1 pair of shorts, 7 days of underwear, and 7 pairs of socks. You'll do laundry weekly, so more clothes just means more weight.
Layer for multiple climates. Pack a rain jacket, fleece or light down jacket, and base layers. Europe's weather varies dramatically—you might hit snow in the Alps and 80°F in Sicily in the same week.
Bring universal electronics. Pack a universal adapter with USB ports, portable battery pack, phone, laptop/tablet, and European SIM card or international phone plan. Voltage converters aren't needed for modern electronics.
Pack toiletries for the first week only. Bring travel-sized versions of essentials like toothpaste, shampoo, and any prescription medications. Buy full-sized replacements at European pharmacies and supermarkets.

How much should my packed backpack weigh?: Aim for 15-20 pounds total. Anything over 25 pounds becomes painful after walking a few miles with it. Pack for one week, then remove half of what you think you need.
Should I bring hiking boots for Europe?: Only if you're planning serious hiking. Comfortable walking shoes work for 90% of European travel. Bring shoes you can walk 8+ miles in on cobblestones.
Can I ship things home if I buy too much?: Yes, but it's expensive. Shipping a 5-pound package from Europe to the US costs $40-80. Buy smart or accept that some purchases stay behind.
Do I need different clothes for different countries?: No. Western Europeans dress similarly across countries. Skip country-specific outfits and focus on comfortable, versatile pieces that work everywhere.