Do you dread packing like I do? Putting it off until the very last minute before a trip? Frantically running errands the day before? If it makes you feel overwhelmed and a little anxious, you are not alone! We can try to be prepared for daily needs, extra activities, and the weather, but sometimes being away from home calls for being uncomfortable in more ways than one. Since landing in Zurich, I have created a list of the 7 packing essentials for Europe.
As I started packing for my first trip across the pond, I tried to imagine what the days would look like. Since we are abroad for three weeks, looking at a forecast only helped for the first part of our trip. Fortunately, living in Indiana, I know how to prepare for an unpredictable Fall! I tend to be an over-packer, particularly when it comes to clothing and shoes. Now that we are about half-way through the trip, I have been reminded once again that I can live off of much less that what I think. I haven’t worn over half of the clothes I packed, and we are even planning to do some laundry while here.
I’m sure that every country is different, and certainly every hotel. We are fortunate to have a fairly modern room with a balcony, air conditioning, a normal bed and bathroom, with toiletries included. I’m sure everyone experiences different needs depending on what is available in your destination. Whether you are travelling for work or leisure, walking around a town or hiking in the mountains, I came up with a list of items that are useful to have. Here are the 7 essential items that have made our trip so much easier!
Adapter/Converter
I had to do a little research before purchasing an adapter, which led me to learning about voltage and converters. Adapters fit different sockets that allow plugs from the US to get power, and come in all shapes and sizes. CJ already owns one that will work in most countries, but I wanted to be sure that it was compatible for all of my devices. I learned that my curling iron and straightener require more power than something like a phone or laptop, and could possibly need a converter. Voltage differs from country to country, so it is very important to research the voltage of your destination, and the voltage of your high-power products. Here is a list of the different plugs, sockets, and voltage by country.
You can usually find the voltage graved directly into your product, and if not, the information should be online. The voltage in Switzerland is 230V, but in the US, it is 120V. My straightener, which is not dual voltage, but 120V (I found this near the on/off button), cannot be used in Switzerland without a converter. Be sure to check that the converter can withstand high-voltage products before buying to avoid ruining expensive belongings! You can find the adapter/converter I bought on Amazon here.
Reusable Water Bottle
How do Europeans stay hydrated?! Haha this is something I am still trying to figure out. “Still wasser” (tap water) is not the drink of choice here over coffee, tea, carbonated water, and alcohol. If you are out and about as much as we have been, or go on a day-trip somewhere, having your own water bottle is a must. Buying a water bottle everywhere you go can add up, and it’s nice to have handy when thirsty on the street, in the mountains, or on public transportation. I even bring my water bottle down to breakfast so I don’t have to keep getting up to refill the little juice glasses available. Here is where you can find my all-time favorite water bottle.
Comfortable Walking Shoes
One thing I love the most about Europe so far is the fashion. Most people dress nicely and timelessly, but most of them aren’t walking as much as a tourist. I brought one pair of tennis shoes, and two pair of booties, and I’ve worn my tennis shoes the most! Although the booties are comfortable to walk in, they certainly aren’t practical for day-trips where we have easily racked up 15,000 steps. Also, cobblestone streets are common here, as I’m sure in most European countries. I’ve chosen comfort over the style I had in mind most days…and it has been worth it.
Book
Whether you have an e-reader, or prefer a good old fashioned book like me, be sure to bring a good book. I chose to save $ and skipped the international phone plan, which means only using my phone in airplane mode on WiFi. This has worked out very nicely, however there are times and places where I have to go without connection. It has been eye opening to how much I rely on my phone, and how much time I spend on it! For downtime on layovers, flights, and train rides, books have been entertaining and a refreshing break from social media. This is the book I’m currently reading.
Rain Jacket
No matter what season in Europe, rain is probably very likely at some point. I doubt anyone goes to Europe planning to sit in their hotel all day. Don’t let rain put a damper on your plans, and bring a light rain jacket (preferably with a hood). It has rained for two days straight and my rain jacket has been so nice to have! It’s a light jacket, but still warm enough for the cool Fall temps. It makes exploring during a mist or light drizzle as enjoyable as it can be.
Portable Charger
Thankfully, I have a husband who loves tech-y gadgets that make life easier. His portable charging block has come in handy for both of us, particularly on long day-trips. It’s much easier than bringing an adapter and hoping to find a plug somewhere. I’ve found that when we’re traveling, my phone loses charge very quickly. Don’t miss out on being able to take pictures of beautiful places because of a dead phone! You can get the charging block we have here.
Cash
I almost forgot to get out cash before coming, and thank goodness I didn’t! Many restaurants and cafes here don’t take cards, and you never know when a little street market will pop up. The airport or train station should have a place to exchange currency. Although you can always find out if card is accepted places before hand, some of the best local gems are the ones that only accept local currency. Having some on hand has been incredibly convenient.
Thanks for reading the 7 packing essentials for Europe. If you enjoyed this post, read about our weekend getaway in Milan. What are your favorite travel essentials, on or off this list? Let me know in the comments!
