The Ultimate Packing List for 3 Month Europe Backpacking Trip

Claire ArakakiJanuary 16, 2024Tips and Tricks

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Dreaming of an epic backpacking adventure across Europe? But worried about fitting everything you need for 3 months into just a carry-on backpack? Fear not! As a seasoned backpacker who’s backpacked across Europe several times, I’ve honed the art of minimalist packing. Here’s your ultimate guide to conquering Europe with just a carry-on for 90+ days:

Why Pack Light? Embrace Freedom and Flexibility

Imagine navigating bustling train stations or hopping on last-minute flights – with just a carry-on, you’ll be a master of mobility. Ditch the bulky baggage and say goodbye to back pain and check-in hassles. Light travel is all about freedom, flexibility, and experiencing Europe with ease.

Best Travel Backpack: The Cotopaxi 42L Allpa Backpack

Choosing the right backpack is crucial for a smooth European backpacking adventure. After years of testing different brands and sizes, the Cotopaxi Allpa 42L backpack has emerged as my top pick. Here’s why it stands out:

  • Carry-On Champion: The 42L capacity ensures it qualifies as a carry-on for most airlines, allowing you to breeze through check-in and avoid baggage fees.
  • Built to Last: Durability is key, and the Cotopaxi Allpa is constructed with high-quality materials that can withstand the rigors of travel.
  • Comfort Counts: This backpack prioritizes comfort with a supportive design that makes even heavy loads feel manageable.
  • Organizational Oasis: Multiple compartments and a clamshell design keep your gear organized and easily accessible, perfect for hostel living with limited space.

My Packing List for 3 Month Europe Backpacking Trip

What to Wear Backpacking: Clothes – linked some of my favorites

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The Minimalist Travel Packing List: Pack Light, Travel Far (Europe Edition) Tips

Ever dream of a suitcase that works for both sunny Portugal and the chilly Arctic Circle? The key is creating a versatile capsule wardrobe specifically designed for European adventures. Here’s how to pack light and conquer any climate:

Building Your Base:

  • Neutral Color Palette: Stick to neutral tones like black, navy, khaki, and grey. This allows for effortless mixing and matching, maximizing outfit possibilities with minimal pieces.
  • Lightweight Fabrics: Opt for breathable, quick-drying synthetic fabrics or linen for warmer weather.
  • Merino Wool Magic: Merino wool is a game-changer. Naturally odor-resistant and temperature regulating, it keeps you comfortable in both hot and cold conditions.

Layering Like a Pro:

  • Master the Art of Layering: Pack thermals, a light jacket, and a versatile sweater. Layering allows you to adapt to any temperature.
  • Don’t Forget the Accessories: A warm hat, scarf, and gloves are essential for chilly mornings or unexpected weather changes. Convertible gloves allow for easy touchscreen use and camera operation.

Wash and Wear on the Go:

  • Pack Light, Wash Smart: Utilize laundry soap sheets or nuts to wash clothes in your hotel sink or hostel laundry facilities. Air drying is key!
  • The Mighty Dry Bag: Invest in a small dry bag (around 5L) for efficient sink washing. Not only does it save on laundry costs, but it can also be a lifesaver for unexpected water activities!

Remember: This is just a starting point! Customize your capsule wardrobe based on your specific trip itinerary and personal style. With a little planning and these essential tips, you can pack light and explore Europe in comfort and style.pen_spark

Essential Backpacking Toiletries to Take on your Travels

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Notes on Toiletries

Traveling light with a carry-on bag is all about maximizing space and minimizing hassle. But how do you pack all those essential toiletries without going over the weight limit or battling TSA restrictions? Here are some clever tips for creating a minimalist toiletry kit that keeps you fresh and confident on the go:

  • Ditch the Bulky Bottles: Swap shampoo, conditioner, and soap for solid bar versions (Ethique, Lush, J.R. Liggett’s) to save space and reduce waste. Cut bars for a compact fit in a soap box.
  • Sunscreen on the Go: Choose solid sunscreen sticks (Banana Boat Sport Stick) for TSA-friendly sun protection that applies easily without mess
  • Makeup Minis for the Win: Create a mini makeup bag with sample-sized essentials (concealer, mascara, lip color). Consider multi-use lip and cheek tints.
  • Perfume Power in a Pinch: Pack a refillable rollerball or slim perfume pen for fragrance on the go (Nest, Le Labo). These use less product than bulky bottles.
    • I use Oil Perfumer as they have a large selection affordable scents. My favorite is their version of Baccarat Rouge 540.
  • Say Goodbye to Cotton Waste: Use reusable bamboo rounds or double-sided silicone scrubby disks for sustainable makeup removal.
  • Organize and Conquer: Combine a toiletry bag for overall organization with a separate silicone pouch for TSA checks. Transfer liquids for easy screening. Remember, some European airports may require liquids out of all bags.
    • *Note: Most European airports I’ve visited, liquids and electronics must be removed from the bag.

Extras

Notes on Extras

Packing Light for Big Adventures:

  • Microfiber Marvels: Matador’s travel towel is the ultimate space-saving pick. It dries quickly and gets the job done, making it unbeatable for its size. Pair it with a softer, quick-drying face towel for ultimate convenience.
  • Double Duty Duffel: Pack a collapsible shopping bag for versatile use. Perfect for groceries, picnics, and even impromptu shower bags, it maximizes space and saves money.
  • Compression Champions: Even with great compartments, compression packing cells help you organize your gear and maximize space within your carry-on.

Comfort and Security on the Go:

  • Peace-Out Pouch: A travel toiletry bag with a separate TSA-compliant pouch keeps you organized and breezes you through security checks. Remember, some European airports might require liquids out of all bags.
  • Silent Slumber: Pack earplugs and a sleeping mask for a good night’s sleep, especially in hostel dorms. They’re lifesavers on camping trips too!

Solo Traveler Safety Hacks:

  • Discreet Defense: A whistle necklace offers a subtle safety measure for everyday travel and hiking! It blends in seamlessly as minimalist jewelry.
    • For clubs and busy bars bring the scrunchie drink cover just in case!
  • Sun and Rain Savior: Don’t underestimate the power of an umbrella! Shielding you from sun and rain, it’s a must-pack for any season, especially during monsoons.

Backpacking Equipment

Packing List for 3 Month Europe Backpacking Trip

Travel Tech Essentials: Blending In and Capturing Memories

Keeping Your Macbook Safe on the Road:

Traveling with a Macbook can be a concern. Here’s a clever tip: consider using a case that disguises your Macbook as a regular laptop, especially if it hides the brand logo. This way, you can keep your valuable device safe and under the radar while you explore.

Capturing the Perfect Travel Story (Even in Rough Conditions):

For many travelers, capturing those special moments is a priority. My travel companion of choice was the Olympus OM-1 camera. Its compact size and impressive image quality allowed me to take detailed and beautiful photos wherever I went.

While the Olympus OM-1 served me well, for adventures with a higher risk of bumps and scrapes, a “tough” point-and-shoot camera is a wise investment. These rugged cameras offer excellent image quality without the bulk of a DSLR, making them perfect for exploring bustling cities where you might want to avoid attracting unwanted attention.

Traveler’s First-Aid Kit

When you’re backpacking for an extended period, it’s best to come prepared with basic medications and supplements to maintain health on the road. Below are some recommended medicine essentials:

  • Any prescription medications
  • Cold/flu medicine – (I prefer Night and Daytime Theraflu)
  • Mucinex tablets
  • Anti-diarrhea meds
  • Pepto-bismol/Imodium for digestive issues
  • Electrolyte hydration packets (Nuun, Pedialyte)
  • Immune support tablets (10x pack)
  • Iodine pills for water
  • Salt (For gargling)
  • Small first-aid kit (bandages, moleskin, Neosporin, etc.)
  • Pill box:
    • Advil
    • Tylenol
    • Allergy medicine
    • Caffeine Pills (For when you need a boost or get caffeine headaches)
    • Melatonin or natural sleep aids for jet lag
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Pack Smart, Stay Healthy: Essential Travel Medicine Tips for Europe:

Hitting the road for a European adventure? Here’s how to stay healthy and minimize disruptions with a smart travel medicine kit:

Essential Over-the-Counter Meds:

  • Pack for Common Ailments: Be prepared for potential hiccups like colds, allergies, upset stomach, dehydration, hangovers, and travel fatigue by packing a basic assortment of over-the-counter medications.
  • Americans Take Note: Over-the-counter medications in Europe can be milder than those in the US. Pack accordingly and consider bringing a slight overstock to avoid running low.

Boost Your Wellbeing:

  • Travel-Friendly Supplements: Consider packing immune-boosting supplements like vitamins, electrolyte tablets, and digestive enzymes to help your body adjust to new environments and minimize culture shock.

Prescription Power:

  • Don’t Forget the Essentials: Ensure you have enough of any prescribed medications to last your entire trip.

Bonus Tip: Home Remedy Hack:

  • Saltwater Gargle: A sore throat on the road can put a damper on your adventures. Try gargling with warm salt water at the first sign of discomfort. This age-old remedy can help soothe irritation and potentially ward off travel bugs.

Customize Your Kit:

Remember, this is a just general guide. Tailor your travel medicine kit to your specific health needs and consult your doctor for personalized advice!

3 Month Europe Packing List Recap

A backpack containing the minimal gear above will allow you to confidently conquer Europe for up to 3 months while avoiding checked luggage fees, saving energy carrying heavy bags, and giving you the flexibility to easily hop between cities on overnight trains. Have an amazing trip! Let me know if you have any other European backpacking questions.