Europe is one of the world’s most popular destination continents, and for good reason. It is home to 44 countries, each boasting its own culture, geography, language, geography, traditions, and cuisine. This cultural diversity, along with the fact that the continent is well-connected and easy to travel, is why a trip to Europe is high on most people’s once-in-a-lifetime travel lists.
With so many cultures colliding with each other, it can be difficult to understand how to best prepare for a trip to the continent. As a travel writer from Rome, I’m used to seeing tourists make the same mistakes over and over again while visiting Italy and other European hotspots. Although each country in Europe has its own unique characteristics, there are some universal mistakes to avoid being recognized or marked as a tourist. Think about wearing athleisure, relying solely on cash, and overpacking. To help you prepare for your next European adventure, I’ve compiled a list of 12 things you shouldn’t pack and 12 things to bring instead. Don’t worry. Prices start at an affordable $15. bon voyage!
Don’t bring: bulky bags when sightseeing
Carry a crossbody wallet for your phone instead
MyFriday Small Crossbody Cell Phone Bag
Amazon
Carrying large, bulky bags around when sightseeing in Europe is not only uncomfortable, but is also an absolute no-no for two reasons. For one thing, you may be more susceptible to pickpocketing, and you may not be able to enter certain museums or archaeological sites. For example, the Vatican Museums in Rome do not allow visitors to enter with large luggage.
Travelers to Europe should instead consider a portable crossbody handbag, like this compact and spacious one sold on Amazon. Available in over 20 neutral and vibrant colors, this crossbody handbag gets rave reviews. “I used this bag for a trip abroad,” one shopper said, adding, “It can hold my passport, boarding pass, all my IDs, money, and there’s still room for chopsticks, gum, and my phone. ” he said.
Don’t bring: sweatpants
Pack instead: Stylish matching sets
Ugerlov sweater 2-piece set
Amazon
For the most part, athleisure is still a new concept in Europe, and wearing sweats and leggings automatically marks you as a tourist. If you want to stay comfortable while looking stylish, consider investing in a matching set like this one from Amazon. Featuring a short-sleeve knit top and loose, loungewear-like pants, it can be dressed up with accessories like strappy sandals and jewelry. This comfortable travel outfit comes in over 10 colors including black, white, and dark green, and is currently 22% off.
Don’t bring: Heavy water bottles
Pack instead: Reusable Water Filter Travel Bottle
Life straw water filter bottle
Amazon
Reusable water bottles are my best friend while traveling. Helps you stay hydrated during long flights. It’s perfect for traveling in Europe, where there are plenty of free public fountains, not just airports. There are over 2,500 in Rome alone.
Instead of always buying plastic water bottles while sightseeing, bring a reusable water bottle like this one from LifeStraw. It also has the added benefit of filtering the water, so you can drink it from fountains and sinks even in countries where it is not recommended. Investing in a lightweight, reusable water bottle for your travels will reduce environmental waste, keep you hydrated, pack lighter and save you a few euros. If you want a more compact version, consider this collapsible version from Amazon. It can be easily folded into a personal item when not in use.
Do not bring: High heeled shoes
Instead, get comfortable, versatile shoes
Dr. Scholl’s Madison lace-up sneakers
Amazon
Many European streets are not suitable for wearing high heels. For example, in the historic center of Rome, you will be eaten up by the sampietrini, or cobblestones. It is also only prohibited in certain locations, including all ancient sites in Greece, for conservation reasons. Instead, consider wearing strappy sandals, velvet ballet flats, leather heeled boots, or comfy sneakers like the podiatrist-approved TikTok-famous Dr. Scholl. Not only are they stylish, they’re also super supportive and perfect for those 10,000 steps a day. This lightweight shoe features anti-odor insole technology and a plush algae-infused sole for added support and cushioning. It’s currently only $49 for a whopping 51% off. It’s actually a bargain.
Please do not bring: Small personal items
What to pack instead: A carry-on backpack
Matein carry-on backpack
Amazon
When traveling to Europe, choose large and expandable personal items to further optimize limited luggage space. Expandable backpacks like this one from Amazon are a great option to keep all your valuables on you while still having room for shoes, a few shirts, or any souvenirs you might buy during your trip . This Matein backpack opens and stores like a suitcase. Features an easy-to-use trolley pass-through sleeve. There are plenty of pockets to organize all your belongings. It easily fits under the seat in front of you. Available in large, extra large, and 2XL.
Don’t bring: More than you can wear.
Packing instead: compression packing cubes
Gonex Compression Packing Cubes Set of 4
Amazon
Compression packing cubes are every traveler’s best friend. I use these Gonex ones every time I travel to Europe, and I love that I can fit at least a week’s worth of bulky clothes in this pack of four small, medium, and large cubes . It’s easy to use and feels very durable even when fully packed, so it will withstand the wear and tear of travel for years to come. It’s still on sale, so get it for $19 with the on-site coupon.
Don’t Bring: Unsecured Passports
Pack instead: secure RFID blocking passport case
Zero Grid RFID Block Passport Wallet
Amazon
Savvy travelers know that being prepared pays off, so they should be very careful about storing their passports. It may sound obvious, but carelessly leaving your passport in your personal belongings while sightseeing can be dangerous. To keep all your belongings safe in one easy-to-access space, consider investing in a do-it-all wallet, like this travel-sized wallet from Zero Grid.
Made from water-resistant and durable ripstop nylon material, it’s designed with RFID blocking technology and is small enough to fit in a crossbody bag or jacket pocket. Not only can it hold your wallet, but it can also hold 4-10 credit cards, tickets, additional identification, and even banknotes and change. A micro travel pen is also included for filling out customs forms. If you want a more stylish option, consider this leather version from Leatherology.
Don’t bring: Checked baggage
Pack your bags instead: Pack a larger carry-on.
Samsonite Omni PC Hard Side Expandable Carry-On
Amazon
With airlines raising checked baggage fees to near-astronomical levels, there’s never been a better time to travel with just a carry-on. Although you can pack more clothing in your checked baggage, it can be quite bulky for your trip, especially on the winding, narrow roads that many European countries are famous for. Needless to say, many of Europe’s streets are pedestrian-only, so if you pick up a taxi from the airport to your accommodation, you may have to walk quite a bit to get to your destination.
To maximize space in your luggage, consider investing in an expandable carry-on suitcase, like this Samsonite Hardside Spinner Suitcase. It features a TSA-approved lock, internal compression straps, and a durable, scratch-resistant microdiamond polycarbonate exterior, all for $130, 24% off the regular price of $170. If that doesn’t convince you, consider that this carry-on has over 21,000 5-star reviews on Amazon.
Don’t bring: Cell phones without Wi-Fi
Pack instead: portable hotspot
Netgear Nighthawk M1 4G Mobile Hotspot
Amazon
If you need the service to stay in touch with friends and family or move between cities you visit, you may want to invest in a portable hotspot. Netgear is one of T+L’s favorite portable hotspots, and we tested it for several reasons. Compatible with AT&T, T-Mobile and Verizon in the US and works in over 125 countries when replaced with a new SIM. The card supports both 5G and Wi-Fi 6E. This M1 version allows you to connect up to 20 devices simultaneously.
Phone plans are usually much cheaper in Europe than in the US, and depending on the company, you can buy a temporary SIM card with up to 100 gigabytes of data for less than $40. Portable SIM card hotspots are therefore one of the most reliable and affordable ways to ensure connectivity on the go. Good portable hotspots are known to be cheap, and this one is available for $350, 50% off its regular price.
Please do not bring: Wallets that cannot be zipped.
Pack your stuff instead: a secure anti-theft bag
Baggallini Small Securtex Anti-Theft Crossbody
Amazon
Unfortunately, pickpocketing is common in major European cities like Paris and Barcelona, but there are ways to avoid it. Investing in a secure anti-theft bag is just one way to keep your belongings safe while you’re out and about. Travel + Leisure’s favorite brand, Baggarini’s crossbody bags are a great choice. Features RFID blocking technology, anti-theft zipper pull sleeves, cut-resistant straps, locking zippers, and interior slash-resistant panels.
Prohibited items: Clothes inappropriate for sacred spaces.
Pack instead: A lightweight shawl.
Jeelow lightweight shawl
Amazon
This may seem obvious, but you’d be surprised at the number of tourists I’ve seen get yelled at and kicked out for entering a church inappropriately dressed in Italy. This means exposing your shoulders, exposing too much of your legs above the knees, or simply wearing clothing that has a shoddy or inappropriate image.
Many countries in Europe are home to very important sacred sites with hundreds of years of history, most of which boast great works of art and architecture, so always dress respectfully when entering. is the best. That’s why I recommend having a compact, lightweight shawl to cover your body, especially in the summer when it’s too hot to wear anything other than shorts, dresses, and tank tops. This simple one from Amazon is made of soft cotton and easily folds up and slips into your purse. Oh, and it’s currently on sale for $15.
Don’t bring: Credit cards only
Pack your bags instead: Keep your cash in a safe wallet
Faran Mule Small Wallet
Amazon
Cash remains the norm in many European countries. Although credit cards and contactless payments are becoming increasingly popular, it’s always best practice to have some cash on hand, such as a few banknotes or euro coins. These are especially useful if you’re taking public transport, grabbing a quick coffee, or leaving a small tip at a restaurant. Coins are used more frequently in Europe than in the United States, so it’s important to invest in a wallet with a designated coin purse in advance of your trip to Europe.
This compact RFID blocking wallet from Amazon is a great choice because it comes in a variety of vibrant colors, including light green, antique yellow, and bright red, and has a large capacity. It features 14 credit card slots, 4 clear ID windows, 2 cash compartments, and a zippered coin pocket. If that’s not enough to convince you, consider that you can get almost 20% off with an on-site coupon and 7,000 5-star reviews.
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