I Spend Every Summer in Europe, and These Are the 15 Items I Always Pack — From $20

It’s almost that time of year: when the shorelines of the Amalfi and Dalmatian coasts welcome sunbathing bodies, outdoor cafes serve up spritzes, and winsome medieval towns spill over with pedestrians. I travel to Europe each summer, and despite the crowds, I’ve never grown tired of the Caldera views at sunset in Santorini, the whitewashed buildings of Puglia, and streetside people watching from some of my favorite French bistros.  

As a travel writer, I’ve observed the effortlessly chic fashion of Europeans as they welcome the summer months, from neutral linens to mixing and matching cotton with colorful silk accents and tailored blazers. Their stylish takes have helped inform my travels over the years, including wearing fabrics that are light enough for long days of walking and battling the summer heat and crowds. 

I’ve also learned to be more mindful of packing with my itinerary in mind for each trip. During a recent food-fueled visit to Verona, where I dined in the revered open kitchen of Michelin-starred Chef Giancarlo Perbellini, I was very thankful to have worn loose-waisted pants that could withhold a few stains once the seventh divine course made its way to my table. On a particularly rainy day through the majestic grounds of Hotel Royal Victoria on Lake Como, good sneakers with traction prevented my Italian dream from ending in a nightmare with a trip to the hospital from a bad fall — more proof that small choices while packing can lead to big saves later on. 

Below are a few of my favorite travel companions for a European jaunt, from tried-and-true packing cubes and portable fans to breathable one-piece swimsuits for beach days and versatile clothing pieces that can go from day to night. 

Linen Shirt Dress

Summer days call for easy-to-wear fabrics. Made with 100 percent eco-friendly linen fiber, this shirt dress from Quince is breathable and lightweight. Two pockets make it convenient to store things in, and it can be dressed up with a belt, or even used as a cover-up on the beach. Also part of Quince’s recently launched European line, this Scoop Neck Midi Dress comes in a variety of colors, from blue pinstripe to martini olive, and it’s perfect for city strolls, sightseeing tours, and whatever else is on your itinerary.  

Portable Fan

Rising temperatures in Europe each summer make a portable fan a necessity, whether you’ll be spending your time outdoors or indoors (remember: most Europeans don’t use air conditioning systems). This nifty option from Duolz has five speeds with a battery life of up to 12 hours. A nice bonus to this fan is that it comes with aromatherapy tablets that can be dropped in to emit relaxing aromas. It can be used as a handheld device or foldable neck design to prop on surfaces. An LED light display shows how much power is left, so you’re never caught by surprise when it’s time to recharge. 

Breathable Shorts 

Known for their breathable activewear, Fanka delivers with these sculpting bike shorts, made with durable, elastic fabric. The targeted compression points on the shorts can help with blood flow and tired muscles, particularly on long walking days while traveling. I like to pack them for trips where I intend to get a hotel gym workout in, and I’m a big fan of the 360-degree smoothing waistband and snug fabric to prevent them from sliding down while exercising. Also included in my workout packing checklist anytime I travel are Columbia’s Konos Outdry Shoes, which are particularly useful during rainy city days or uphill walks, as they are waterproof and provide optimal traction. 

Mini Portable Charger

Carrying a mini charger has been a game-changer while traveling abroad, particularly on long walking days where I’m relying on Google Maps to get me to where I need to go. This mini portable charger power bank from Lanluk is lightweight and small enough to keep in your pocket. I love not having to lug a chord around to charge my phone as well. Plus, it comes in handy in hotel rooms, Airbnbs, and vacation rentals with limited outlets; you don’t have to fight with your fellow travelers to recharge your device at the end of the day. 

Tote Bag 

A perfect accompaniment for any beach day, the Graham Tote from State Bags is my colorful, spacious pick for sunbathing days. Made with 100 percent recycled cotton, the tote features a main compartment that can hold a few books, a laptop, or even a pair of shoes, and an interior pocket for a cellphone and wallet. Beyond the beach, it also makes a great everyday purse, as well as a trusty personal bag for flights; it has a trolley pass-through sleeve that allows it to slide over luggage handles for hands-free convenience. 

Packing Cubes 

On my last trip to Europe, I managed to get nine dresses, and a handful of pants and shirts into a carry-on — all thanks to the power of packing cubes. This compression set from Bagsmart helps me sort my favorite summer clothing without any wardrobe compromises or leaving anything behind. The cubes come in a variety of sizes and are made with durable polyester to withstand any wear and tear. But, what sets them apart from other packing cubes is the detachable crossbody strap for ease of travel. 

One-piece Bathing Suit

I adore a classic one-piece swimsuit, and this new option from Vuori delivers with its removable cups, a slightly cheeky fit, adjustable straps, and a very clutch hip phone pocket to store your phone. The elastane fabric provides ultra-stretch and fast moisture-wicking capabilities for hot beach days. The cut of the piece is also versatile enough to wear as a bodysuit and pair with a skirt or pants.

Beach Towel 

Light enough to easily pack into your luggage, this beautiful beach towel from Coyuchi has a diamond-woven pattern inspired by vintage African ikat textiles and ensures that any spot on the shore is the best. A soft velour and looped terry fabric offers ultimate softness and maximum absorbency. I love the sea mist and persimmon color options, as they remind me of an idyllic day on the Mediterranean. It also doubles as a picnic blanket when needed, and depending on your accommodations, you can use it as a bath towel. 

Travel Wallet

This multi-functional wallet from Calpak is perfect for travelers who like an all-in-one organization solution. You can safely store your cards and cash in the designated compartments, and there’s also a space to hold your passport (in addition to extra slots and pouches for other miscellaneous items that need safekeeping). It’s equipped with an RFID-blocking lining for security and the removable straps allow it to be worn as a fanny pack, purse, or clutch. I love the chic croc material and range of colors, which include emerald green and cognac brown. 

Standout Dress

If you’re looking for vibrant colors to inspire a seaside European escapade, there are plenty of stunning dresses to help you do so. Personally, I’m a fan of Nigerian designer Andrea Iyamah’s summer collection — specifically the Turi Mesh dress that evokes Grecian goddess vibes with a lightweight bodycon fit and one-shoulder draping. It’s only available for pre-order now, so allow me to direct you to the Farm Rio White Floral Sketch Midi Dress that will help you channel the same energy. Over at Amazon, you can get a similar look with the Zesica Crossover Halter Dress and the Blencot Long-sleeve Maxi Dress, both of which are on sale for under $50. 

Relaxed Jeans

A pair of comfortable, breathable jeans is essential for any European trip. Paired with a breezy tank or linen shirt, these cropped denim pants from Mother have helped me navigate any temperature with their loose, ankle-length fit. On nights out, I like to dress them up with these comfy Kinetic Wedges from Sorel and pair them with this lightweight favorite V-neck blouse from Mother for a pop of color. 

Comfy Flats

I’ve suffered far too many injuries on my feet after long days of walking to ever choose cuteness over comfort again. When the itinerary calls for something a little dressy, I reach for these Melissa Campana flats to achieve a casual or glammed-up look; they can ease me from day into night with an interwoven cutout design and cushioned footbeds. For a pair that instantly evokes Parisian style, opt for the Madewell Greta Ballet Flats. Shoppers rave that they’re packable, versatile, and “comfortable right out of the box.” 

MZ Wallace Crosby Crossbody Sling Bag  

I will forever sing the praises of this classic crossbody from MZ Wallace. It’s been by my side for long-haul flights, casual walking tours, and dressed-up dinners. That versatility is thanks to its detachable crossbody strap that can be swapped out for a fashionable, gold-embedded chain strap that adds a touch of luxury to any outfit. This sling bag is large enough to fit your daily essentials for a day out and fits comfortably anywhere you adjust it. Amazon is stocked with equally intriguing, stylish, and functional options — like the Anck Checkered-printed Fanny Pack ($30), the Cluci Mini Everywhere Crossbody Waist Bag ($25), and the Bagsmart Quilted Waist Pack ($20). 

Foldable Hat 

This wide-brim straw hat from Amazon-loved brand Lanzom is foldable and can be packed without taking up any luggage space. Made with a soft yet sturdy material, it’s a comfortable style that can fit all head sizes thanks to its adjustable, internal strap. For another fun pick, this Sahara Guide hat from REI Co-op has breathable mesh side panels to keep you cool and an adjustable chin strap so that it doesn’t fly off. It particularly delivers in environments like Athens’ Acropolis and Rome’s Colosseum, where the summer heat can be unforgiving. 

Curel Oil Control Weightless Gel Face Moisturizer

Humid days in Europe call for adjustments in skincare, particularly when the sweat kicks in. This gel moisturizer from Curel’s recently launched Skin Balancing Care Collection — exclusively available on Amazon — combats excess oil sebum and is fragrance- and oil-free. I always travel with it because it provides great moisture to the skin without feeling too heavy.

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