DO NOT Make These Europe Packing Mistakes | What Not To Pack & Tips

Summary

This video by Nick from 'Away Together' covers common packing mistakes for a trip to Europe and offers practical advice on what to avoid. Nick emphasizes choosing the right bag, such as a lightweight backpack or a carry-on roller bag, and avoiding oversized suitcases. He provides two packing strategies, advises against overpacking clothes, and recommends versatile, wrinkle-resistant clothing. The video also highlights key items not to forget, such as a passport and travel adapter, and stresses the importance of apps and smart packing hacks like using a packable daypack.

Takeaways

• 🎒 Bringing the wrong bag, especially a large roller suitcase, can be a hassle in Europe. Opt for a lightweight, portable bag that meets carry-on requirements and is easy to manage on uneven terrain like cobblestone streets.
• 🧳 Strategy 1: Be a 'one-bag traveler' with a versatile backpack that fits carry-on requirements, allowing for hands-free mobility. Many brands like Tortuga and Osprey offer great options for this.
• 🛅 Strategy 2: Use a 'two-bag' system with a carry-on roller bag and a personal backpack. This setup works well for longer trips, offering more space and flexibility.
• 💡 A useful travel hack is to pack a small, foldable day pack that can be stowed in your main bag until needed for day trips.
• 👕 Avoid packing too much clothing. Focus on versatile, lightweight, and layerable clothes, and consider items like merino wool, which is odor-resistant and can be worn multiple times.
• 👗 Dress stylishly but not overly formal. Avoid looking like a tourist with items like university sweatshirts or socks with sandals, and be mindful of modesty requirements at certain sites.
• 👞 Choose versatile, comfortable walking shoes that work for both daytime outings and casual dinners. Minimize the number of shoes, and wear your bulkiest pair during flights.
• 🛑 Don’t buy unnecessary outdoor gear like hiking shoes unless you're specifically planning outdoor adventures. Stick to practical items you will actually use.
• 📸 Skip expensive camera gear if you're new to photography—modern smartphones are sufficient for capturing high-quality photos during your trip.
• 🔌 Don't forget essential items like your passport, travel adapter (preferably a universal one), and important travel documents. Consider downloading useful travel apps before your trip.

Q & A

What is the main mistake people make when choosing a bag for a trip to Europe?

The main mistake is bringing a giant roller bag or checked suitcase. These are impractical for navigating multiple cities via rail, bus, or short flights. A lightweight, portable bag is much easier to manage.

What are the ideal dimensions for a carry-on bag when traveling to Europe?

A common size for a carry-on is 22 inches x 14 inches x 9 inches. However, you should also check for weight restrictions, which can range between 7 to 10 kg (15 to 22 lbs) depending on the airline.

Why is a backpack a preferred option for traveling in Europe?

A backpack is ideal because it allows you to go hands-free and navigate cobblestones or uneven terrain, which is common in older European cities. It’s also easier to manage when stepping onto train platforms or walking long distances.

What features should you look for in a good travel backpack for Europe?

A good travel backpack should be durable, water-resistant, offer organizational compartments, and fit your body comfortably. It should also meet carry-on size requirements.

What is the 'two-bag traveler' strategy?

The 'two-bag traveler' strategy involves carrying a carry-on sized roller bag and a personal item backpack. This setup gives you flexibility, with one bag for essentials and another for extra items, both meeting airline size restrictions.

What is a packable day pack and why is it useful?

A packable day pack is a small, lightweight backpack that packs down into a small size, often fitting into its own pocket. It’s useful because you can store it in your main bag and use it for day trips during your travels, leaving your larger bag behind.

How can you avoid overpacking clothing for a European trip?

To avoid overpacking, create a capsule wardrobe of versatile, mix-and-match clothing items. Focus on lightweight, moisture-wicking layers, and choose clothing you can wear multiple times, like Merino wool, which resists odor.

What type of clothing should you avoid packing for Europe?

Avoid bringing super fancy clothing unless you have specific plans that require it. Similarly, avoid sloppy or touristy outfits like university apparel, sandals with socks, and zip-off pants. These can make you stand out as a tourist and a potential target for scams.

What should you consider when packing shoes for a trip to Europe?

Choose one good pair of versatile, comfortable walking shoes that work for both daytime sightseeing and evening outings. Wear your largest pair on the plane and pack lighter shoes. Avoid single-use items like heels.

What are some items you don't need to buy for a European trip?

You don’t need to invest in technical outdoor gear like heavy hiking shoes or expensive camera equipment unless you have specific plans for those activities. Most smartphones are capable of taking excellent photos, and long flights often provide pillows and blankets.

What are some crucial items not to forget when traveling to Europe?

Don’t forget your passport, travel documents, and a good travel adapter. A universal adapter that works in Europe and has multiple ports for charging devices is highly recommended. Also, download any travel apps you may need ahead of time.