The Ultimate Packing Guide: Fall in Europe

Fall may be my favorite time of year to visit Europe. The weather starts to cool off, the crowds thin out, and the prices even drop a bit. Packing can be a struggle for most, especially when the weather can fluctuate dramatically. Here is our ultimate packing guide for Europe in the Fall, including all necessities you will need.

Tops

The key to having a varying wardrobe while living out of a small suitcase is having the ability to mix and match. Tops are the foundation of most outfits, so be sure to choose them well!We suggest: 2 t-shirts, 2 tank-tops, 1 long sleeve, 2 blouses, 1 cardigan

• T-shirts // Classic and comfortable tees are the perfect go-to to mix and match with any outfit.
• Tank tops // Perfect for layering, be sure to pack some basic tanks that you can pair with any outfit.
• Long sleeve // A comfortable long sleeve shirt is nice on chillier evenings, mornings, or on travel days.
• Blouse // A few fun, fancier shirts are always a good idea. Be sure that they are comfortable, wrinkle resistant, and lightweight.
• Cardigan // Great for layering and wearing in that in-between weather. Look for a lightweight cardigan that you can stash in your bag if the weather heats up.

Bottoms

Of course, you can't travel without pants. Pack a few pairs of comfortable bottoms that you can match with a variety of tops.We suggest: 2 shorts, 1 pair jeans, 1 pair leggings

• Shorts // Most Europe isn't too cold in the Fall, shorts will likely be what you wear most days.
• Jeans // For colder days or dressing up at night, jeans are an essential. Some say not to bring jeans, but I think that a comfortable pair of dark wash jeans are essential.
• Leggings // Sometimes you just need the comfort of slipping into a pair of workout leggings! Personally, these are my favorite for travel days or lounging around in the evening.

Outfits

Dresses and rompers are great because with just one article of clothing, you have a whole outfit. When the weather gets a bit colder you can also pair any of these with a jacket or cardigan.We suggest: 1 short/midi dress, 1 maxi dress, 1 romper; or a max of 3 items total

• Short/midi dress // Easy to throw on and great for warmer weather. Pair with a jacket or cardigan when the weather starts to dip.
• Maxi dress // Maxi dresses are great for many occasions and give a bit more comfort than shorter dresses. Also, many churches throughout Europe don't allow you to enter if you are showing your shoulder or knees and a maxi dress is perfect for exploring.
• Romper // Great for warm weather days or in an especially windy destination.

Outerwear

Depending on the country, Europe in the Fall can get quite chilly. Be sure to pack a few outerwear items so you are prepared for the colder weather.We suggest: 1 Lightweight jacket + 1 jean OR leather jacketJean jacket // Stylish and comfortable, jean jackets are perfect for layering.Leather jacket // If you want to add a bit of rocker to your vibe, leather jackets are great for layering and usually provide good warmth as well.Lightweight jacket // Depending on the area of Europe you are traveling, having a real jacket will be necessary and nights can get chilly!. Look for a lightweight jacket that is easy to pack and doesn't take up too much space.

Shoes

The key here is COMFORT over everything else. Chances are you are going to be doing a lot of walking while in Europe, this is not the time to break in a new pair of shoes. Look for shoes that are supportive with a rubber sole.We suggest: 1 pair of sandals, 1 pair of boots, 1 pair of sneakersSandals // A cute, neutral color pair of sandals that can be worn from day to nightBoots // Important for countries in Northern Europe, where the weather does start to get a bit chilly. Look for light-weight boots that are easy to pack and don't take up too much space.Sneakers // Cute sneakers are very in-style right now. A pair that are easy to slip off and on are ideal for going through security at the airport.

Swim

What? Swimsuit? But it's Fall! Depending on what part of Europe you are visiting, the weather may still be warm enough to swim. Or if you are visiting Budapest, you will want to take a dip in the thermal baths.We suggest: 1 swimsuit Swimsuit // You only need one, make sure it's a style that you feel comfortable wearing and that it is easy to wash.

Essentials

Clothes are only half the hassle of packing. Here are a few essentials past clothing that you shouldn't forget to throw into your bag.Portable charger // My portable charger is my lifeline. Look for a charger that holds several charges but also one that isn't too bulky, so you can throw it in your bag.Satchel // A stylish satchel is essential on any European trip. Look for a bag that zips or has closing clasps to deter pick-pocketers. My favorite bag is big enough to carry my camera and other essentials but also has a back pocket for important documents.Camera // Nowadays iPhones take amazing photographs but if you want to step up your photography game, think about investing in a DSLR or mirrorless camera to document your travels.Journal // You may think that you will remember everything from your trip but those memories quickly fade. Bring a journal along to write down details throughout your trip.Scarf // I always travel with a scarf, they are so versatile! They work as my blanket on cold flights, cover my shoulders while visiting religious sites, a towel on the beach, or act as their original purpose of being worn as a scarf.Sunglasses // A self-explanatory necessity, but often times forgotten!Power Adapter // My favorite adapter is an all-in-one adapter that has both the electrical plug and a few USB plugs on it. Did we forget anything? Tell us in the comments!