If you’re gearing up for the European adventure of a lifetime, this article can serve as your guiding compass. As someone who studied abroad for an entire year in Barcelona, Spain, I learned a lot on what to pack, what to wear, and how to prepare for a few months in Europe.
After my year abroad and then traveling around Europe for the past 6 years, I decided to create this study abroad packing list, loaded with everything you need to conquer the cobblestone streets, ancient ruins, and Instagram-worthy landscapes of Europe! (Obviously this list works just as well for those who are moving to Europe for a few months as well!)
First off, let’s tackle the golden question: “What to pack for Europe?” Picture this – you, strolling through the charming streets of Paris or you’re getting ready to attend your very first Oktoberfest in Munich. To make those dreams a reality, you’ll want to pack like a seasoned traveler. I’m not just talking socks and undies here; this is the whole playbook on European study abroad essentials.
From the iconic hiking trails in Switzerland to the sun-soaked beaches of Greece, this Europe packing list (720 items strong – just kidding!) covers every nook and cranny of your European escapade. This isn’t just any ordinary packing list; this ultimate guide is a curated collection of must-haves that’ll have you living your best European life.
Essentials for traveling to Europe? I got you! Forget the travel clichés; these are my favorite real-deal study abroad must-haves that me, and many other savvy students swear by.
Non-Negotiables
Let’s kick things off with the non-negotiables – the absolute must-haves that’ll make or break your European rendezvous. Passport? Check. Travel documents? Double-check. Wallet? Triple-check. We’re diving into the foundational travel essentials, the backbone of your adventure, ensuring you don’t leave home without the keys to your European kingdom.
Passport and Passport Holder
Your passport is more than just a travel document; it’s a golden ticket to a European escapade. In this bite-sized section, we’ll explore why safeguarding that precious passport with a stylish holder is not just a choice – it’s a study abroad commandment. Let’s make sure your ticket to adventure stays safe and sound!
Travel Documents, Driver’s License, and Wallet
Make sure you have stress-free travel by ensuring your travel documents are organized, your is ready for action, and your driver’s license is tucked away for unforeseen expeditions. I also recommend setting up Apple Pay on your phone ahead of time as almost every restaurant, store, and transportation accepts this form of payment.
Medications
While you can always find simple pain reliever medicine for a headache at any pharmacy, I’d highly recommend getting your prescriptions filled before coming overseas. If you plan on coming for a minimum of 3 months, talk to your doctor ahead of time and see if he can prescribe you medication for the duration of your study abroad term.
Electronics
Kindle
A Kindle is a game-changer for studying abroad, offering a lightweight, compact library at your fingertips, allowing you to escape into your favorite reads without lugging around heavy books from city to city.
Backup Phone Charger
A backup phone charger is your lifeline, literally. These backup chargers ensure your communication stays uninterrupted, letting you navigate new landscapes, make plans, and stay connected with friends and family back home.
Headphones
Headphones are essential for both your homebase city and your travels. I personally love my airpods because they are super small and fit in literally any bag. But if you’re looking for better quality, I highly recommend the apple airpod Max. These work like a charm when you’re trying to zone out and be in your own little world when you’re exploring a new city!
Laptop
A laptop is the Swiss Army knife of study abroad, facilitating research, assignments, and virtual connection, making it an essential tool for your semester away. The Apple mini is a great option if you want a small and compact computer to take on all your trips.
Camera
A point and shoot camera captures the vibrant tapestry of your study abroad journey, preserving memories of cultural encounters, picturesque landscapes, and the unique experiences that define your adventure. To preserve your memories in a fun and unique way, bring a film camera and develop the film once you’re home! (I always travel with my film camera and I absolutely love it)
Backup Memory Card
A backup memory card is an essential item that ensures you never miss a photo-worthy moment, offering ample storage for the countless memories you’ll create during your study abroad escapades.
Universal Travel Adapter
A travel adapter is a globe-trotter’s best friend, allowing you to charge your electronic devices seamlessly and stay connected regardless of the country’s plug standards.
Wifi Hotspot
A Wifi hotspot grants you reliable internet access wherever you go, ensuring you can submit assignments, participate in virtual classes, and stay connected even in areas with spotty public Wi-Fi. If you think you may be traveling and studying at the same time, using a wifi hotspot would be a good idea.
Apply Airtag
Air tags are a smart investment, helping you keep track of valuable items like your travel backpack or checked luggage, providing peace of mind as you explore unfamiliar territories. I love to keep an apple air tag in my checked suitcase when checking in a bag and another one in my backpack just in case I have any problems while traveling.
Portable Speaker
A portable speaker adds a soundtrack to your study abroad experience, creating a communal atmosphere during gatherings with friends or setting the mood for solo exploration. Plus, you’re always going to want to be listening to music when traveling with friends… Pack a small portable speaker so you can always have one on hand!
Portable Monitor
Okay, while this is more for the traveling expats rather than the students, a portable monitor is also a great investment if you are looking to expand your workspace.
Seasonal Basics
Thinking about going to the Swiss Alps during winter? What about a trip to the sunny island of Sardinia in Italy? It’s a good idea to plan for both a warmer and colder climate when moving to Europe (even if it’s just for a few months)!
Windbreaker Jacket/ Rain Jacket
A windbreaker jacket is a versatile companion for unpredictable cold weather, providing a lightweight shield against chilly winds, ensuring you stay comfortable while exploring various climates during your study abroad adventure. If you are studying abroad in the winter in Europe, I highly suggest packing a lightweight windbreaker or rain jacket on all your trips.
Puffer Jacket
I would almost say that my puffer jacket was my most used item when studying abroad. Why? Because it’s the perfect cold weather item that can be worn as a layer or on its own, providing that extra boost of warmth whenever you need it most.
Gloves
Gloves are a small but crucial accessory for staying cozy, protecting your hands from the winter chill, and allowing you to comfortably navigate and enjoy outdoor activities in colder destinations.
Bathing suit
A bathing suit is a must-pack, as you never know when you’ll stumble upon a picturesque beach or a refreshing pool, providing the opportunity to soak up the sun and fully experience the warmer side of your study abroad destination.
Beach travel towel
A beach travel towel is not just for the sand and surf; it’s a practical item for impromptu picnics, park lounging, or even a cozy spot in your temporary residence, adding both convenience and comfort to your study abroad essentials.
Toiletries and Skincare Essentials
Hand Sanitizer
Hand sanitizer is a travel essential, ensuring your hands stay clean and germ-free, providing peace of mind as you navigate new environments.
Oil Blotting Sheets
Oil blotting paper is one of my favorite beauty travel hacks! Oil blotting wipes are a lifesaver for maintaining a fresh and matte complexion, especially in warmer climates, offering a quick fix for unwanted shine and ensuring you’re always ready for that spontaneous photo op.
Makeup Remover
Makeup remover is a gentle giant, helping you cleanse your face after a day of exploration, ensuring your skin stays radiant and healthy amidst varying climates. I personally love the mineral water minis that you can find in pharmacies all over Europe. You can easily bring it in your carryon and wipe away any excess oil whenever you land in a new city.
Sunscreen
Sunscreen is your shield against the sun’s rays, protecting your skin from potential harm and ensuring you can confidently bask in the European sunshine without worry. Don’t forget this essential item as you hop on your next international flight.
Lotion
Lotion is a hydration hero, combating dry skin caused by changing climates and flying, keeping your skin smooth and moisturized, so you can focus on the adventures at hand.
The Essentials (Travel-sized toiletries)
Travel-sized shampoo, conditioner, body wash, and face wash are the backbone of your hygiene routine, providing convenience and ensuring you stay fresh and clean during your study abroad experience. Instead of packing a bunch of mini bottles, I suggest buying reusable plastic bottles and refilling as needed. To stay organized, make sure to bring a travel toiletry bag that’s compact and durable.
Travel Perfume Atomizer
Mini perfumes are a touch of luxury in a compact form, allowing you to embrace a signature scent without taking up precious luggage space, adding a personal touch to your daily routine while exploring the cobblestone streets of Europe.
Mini Hair Care Products
Mini hair care products are your secret weapons for maintaining those locks, ensuring your hair stays fabulous, whether you’re strolling through historic streets or dancing the night away. I personally always bring my QUAI leave-in conditioner on all my travels.
Hair Brush
A travel-sized hairbrush is a compact companion for taming your tresses on the go, ensuring you look effortlessly put together, no matter the adventure.
Elastics
Elastics are the unsung heroes, offering versatility in styling your hair, from casual exploration to more formal occasions, ensuring you’re always prepared for any hairstyle the day throws at you.
Accessories for Europe
School Backpack
A school backpack is your academic sidekick, providing ample space for books, notebooks, and tech essentials, ensuring you’re organized and ready to tackle classes while adding a touch of personal style.
Travel Weekender Backpack
A weekend trip travel backpack is the adventurer’s dream, offering a perfect blend of style and functionality for short getaways where you can afford to pack light. I highly recommend getting either the standard smaller suitcase that fits in the overhead compartment or a comfortable backpack that you can take on your weekend trips throughout europe.
Shoulder Bag
A shoulder bag is the stylish companion for your day-to-day adventures, effortlessly carrying your travel essentials and adding a chic touch to your ensemble as you navigate the vibrant streets of your study abroad destination.
Packing Cubes
Even if you are only doing a weekend trip, it can be hard to pack your clothes into a single carry on. One travel hack that I absolutely love that helps me save space and also keep everything organized are my packing cubes. Using packing cube organizers can free up tons of luggage space and allow you to pack light no matter where you’re going.
Fanny Pack or Small Purse
A fanny pack or small purse is the epitome of on-the-go convenience, allowing you to keep your valuables close and secure while exploring new cities, ensuring practicality without sacrificing style.
Scarf
A scarf is the versatile accessory that adds flair to any outfit while keeping you cozy in varying climates, making it an essential wardrobe piece for both fashion and function during your study abroad experience.
Baseball Cap
A baseball cap is the laid-back essential for sunny days or casual explorations, providing shade and style as you soak in the sights.
Belt
A belt is the finishing touch to your wardrobe, adding definition to your outfits and helping you pull off a chic European look.
Simple Jewelry
Simple jewelry pieces are the understated elegance that completes your look, allowing you to express your personal style effortlessly while keeping your accessories versatile for any setting.
Sunglasses
Sunglasses are more than just eye protection; they’re a style statement, shielding your eyes from the sun’s glare as you explore new horizons and ensuring you look effortlessly cool in the process.
Wrapping Up
Along with this essential Europe packing list, don’t forget the obvious items like comfortable walking shoes, school supplies, and all your clothes. While of course you’ll be able to find everything in your host country, it’s still recommended to prepare ahead of time.
In the grand tapestry of your European study abroad adventure, packing smartly is your passport to seamless exploration. With this curated list of study abroad essentials, including travel-sized toiletries, tech-savvy gadgets, versatile clothing, and chic accessories, you’re not just packing; you’re preparing for an experience of a lifetime.
From the cobblestone streets of historic cities to the sun-drenched beaches, these must-haves ensure you’re ready for every twist and turn. So, toss in that travel-sized shampoo, charge up your travel gadgets, and embrace the unknown with open arms – your European masterpiece awaits.
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