I love the Kindle Paperwhite because the screen is glare-free, making it easy to read even in direct sunlight. I fell in love with it traveling Southeast Asia, and now I use Tiger Balm for everything. Ive learned that a quality travel backpack can be your best friend while traveling through Europe. Thanks so much, Judy. So if you want a safe bet that many others seem to like, this is a good choice. These lockable zippers make it much harder for a pickpocket to snatch something while you arent looking. Second, when I am already in a destination, I like to have a bag I can grab to keep important things like towels, umbrellas, and other basics on hand while exploring a city or beach. Check out Ospreys 70 liter version. Ive been to nearly every country in Europe (Im coming for you Albania! Plus, youll use your travel backpack literally all the time (they dont call it backpacking Europe for nothing)! Its a little pricy, but it will last you a lifetime (and comes with a lifetime repair or replace guarantee!). Plus, if for whatever reason you dont like the Backpacker, they offer free returns. That sounds like a great trip for your son! Just be sure to tag yours so it doesnt get taken by the wrong person! A backpack might be the biggest investment you make in your Eurotrip beside plane tickets. Durable construction and timeless style means this investment will last for many trips. It also has a water bottle holder on the outside as well as buckles so that you can strap something like a yoga mat to the outside. Medium-weight Jacket (spring/fall) | If youre visiting in the spring or fall, or visiting mountainous areas in the summer, youll want to bring a medium-weight jacket. It has an adjustable back frame, a removable daypack, and plenty of room. It also has some nifty compression straps that help to keep your profile small (it can function as a carry-on backpack for most airlines if not overfilled). We are going to France for the woman World Cup so need to do some running around on trains, then off to Rome (2 weeks total). First, I have a few tips for picking the best travel backpack for Europe properly . I now pack mosquito repellent wipes in my day pack so I can apply around sunset, when the mosquitos get really active! Premium Price Point Means Its an Investment: If youre willing to invest in a high-quality bag for the long-term, and you want something that is carry-on friendly, you cant find a better premium bag than the Tortgua Outbreaker. You can do laundry and you dont need to pack as many things as you think! And I know what youre thinking: but what about laundry? My fave idea is the lush solid shampoo, what a winner! Need Even More Space? Great for Laptops AND Day trips: I use my daypacks for two similar but different purpose. I use my large packing cube for bottoms and dresses, my medium packing cube for tops, and my small packing cube for socks and undies. I quite literally live out of a backpack and a daypack. Earplugs | After trying many different earplugs in my year or so living in hostels, Ive found these to be the best in class, able to withstand even a 12 person dorm! Not only is it comprehensive, its travel-tested and filled with only products I have actually used (and still use) over the last seven years of traveling the world and running this blog not just ones Ive heard about or taken from other packing lists. One more thing before you travel to Europe: Dont forget these items that should be on every backpackers packing list . Nate Hake is a digital nomad from Denver, Colorado who has been traveling the world full time since 2016. Our top 3 backpacks for Europe are the Osprey Porter 46 L, the Tortuga Outbreaker, and the Salkan Backpacker. Tencel is a soft, cozy fabric made from eucalyptus and wicks moisture away better than cotton. It should be totally fine for most major international carriers, but some of the budget carriers in Europe like Wizz Air and Ryan Air can be strict about carry ons (though usually its actually cheaper to check your bag on those airlines anyway, since they charge for carry-ons). Swimsuits | I strongly recommend bringing at least two bathing suit options there is nothing worse than having to put back on a still-wet swimsuit! Disclaimer:This post contains affiliate links. And I cant stress enough how cute it is! Adapter |If you are coming from the US or Canada, you will need an adapter for your electronics. No, just inside the daypack! I especially love these for the longer inseam less thigh-chafing! Youll need your passport with you, obviously! I suggest printing out a photocopy of your insurance in case of emergency. I always say that lighter is better, but it does depend on how much space hell need. This makes a lot of sense since a lot of times youll need something to carry your camera and other essential items while you are out exploring for the day. Comfortable straps, sensible organization, and more. Hi Chris! The Perfect Level of Organization: This day backpack strikes a good balance between offering enough organization without overloading you with compartments and pockets. Hard to look chic with that wardrobe . Pain Medicines | For me, this is always bringing a bottle of Aleve. Touchscreen-Friendly Gloves | Nothing is more annoying than having to take your gloves on and off to use your phone while you are traveling, for accessing vouchers, getting directions, making payments, etc. Sandals | Depending on the weather during your trip, a pair of sandals will go a long way. One thing that REALLY helps distribute the weight of a heavy backpack is a hip-strap. TravelLemming.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com. This will work for even super cold weather, but not for something extreme like a ski holiday, where you need more specific gear like waterproof pants, etc. Journal | Moleskine notebooks are my favorite journals, like the hipster wannabe I am. Having personally tested over a dozen bags, I personally choose to travel with Salkans The Backpacker these days. I spent five years living and traveling around Europe, typically doing getaways for a week or two at a time. She has been a speaker at the World Travel Writers Conference and her writing, photography, and podcasting work has appeared in National Geographic, CNN Arabic, CBC Canada, and Forbes, amongst others. Is it safe to travel with a backpack in Europe? Here are all the things you should cram in your travel backpack (with packing cubes, naturally were not monsters, here) for the people who love options yet hate checking luggage. everyone has their own preferences, so bring whatever you want from home. Or check out Trusted Housesitters if you want to start browsing available properties now. Travel Lemming writer Abigail recently got her hands on this backpack and put it to the test in her Nomatic Navigator backpack review. Sounds like a fun trip. We will stay in hostels ( hopefully in a private room, please!) Cant decide between a laptop bag or a more traditional daypack? Personally, I think a lot of compartments and pockets are constraining, and I find that having fewer, larger pockets is more versatile and makes packing easier and quicker. Would love to hear back from you if you have input. The 12 Most Scenic Drives in Colorado (Road Trip Inspiration! Organized and Comfortable The anti-theft features arent the only thing this backpack has going for it its also pretty comfortable to carry and loaded with smart organization features. You can change these out more often so you can swear the same sweaters more often without them smelling. I've carried this trusty and affordable daypack to over 50 countries all over the world. Merino wool layers are even more odor-resistant, so if you dont mind wool, its even better! Ive already put this backpack through a lot, and Im guessing it can survive a lot more, but they offer a lifetime guarantee just to be sure. Lifetime Guarantee: Salkan bags are built to last, and you can literally feel it in the quality of the material. Free Returns and Shipping to USA: Salkan is a British outfitter but they ship free to the USA, though, and my bag arrived in just a couple days. I dont really think thats true, but when they do wear shorts, they tend to be dressier and well-fitting, like these high-waisted linen shorts. Even if youre only traveling for two weeks in Europe, I like having a separate bag for all my laundry day needs. I absolutely love The Osprey Daylite Daypack, and took it to over 50 countries. Bonus points for a removable day bag for day-long excursions. Travel hacking 101 if you can get an alcohol proof tube ;D. Youre my hero. Hair Ties | For days when getting out dry shampoo is just too hard. If on a budget but can't sacrifice quality, choose the Osprey Porter. So if youre planning more than just one trip with this bag, its worth the investment. For the record, Ive paid for every single item on this list out of pocket not one thing on this packing list here is sponsored (and even if it were, you could expect my honest opinions, anyway). Check out the Salkan Backpacker. If you agree bring some. Toiletry bottles | Rather than buying small travel-sized containers of shampoo, conditioner, etc. Most backpackers in Europe carry a daypack or laptop bag in addition to their main backpack. The Salkan Backpacker is the only Ive ever seen that offers both options, so you dont have to choose! Because Im obsessed with perfection, I had our writer Hedy test out 5 of the best travel neck pillows. Thanks for this info and linking everything. An umbrella is one of those things you dont think to pack and then later realize you need it but only when you REALLY need it. Laptop | As a blogger, I bring my Macbook Air everywhere but other people may prefer a tablet other type of computer. The bag is loaded with features, like a built in rain cover and laundry sling, and has a sturdy weatherproof exterior that someone manages to stay fashionable while still being highly functional. Our current overall top-rated backpack is the Osprey Porter 46, an awesome and durable bag Ive personally carried in more than 60 countries! Heres my thoughts on it: Made for Digital Nomads: the bag went viral in the digital nomad community for good reason. Thank you! I love this simple hemp/bamboo/cotton blend that comes in a variety of colors. As a result, these products have been tested time and time again, and Ive eliminated anything that Ive given up on the road (which is a lot). Heck, they even made a separate fit for men and women! and only want to bring a carry on. Bali is beautiful, I also loved Thailand (Bangkok & Chiang Mai), Cambodia (especially Siem Reap), and Malaysia (Penang). Also, note that some backpacks also are designed with an option for a built-in waterproof cover. Anti-Friction Stick | I swear by having an anti-friction stickat the ready during summer travels, because if you got thick thighs like I do, this is a godsend against fighting the devil that is chub rub. Do you think 46L is enough for us (we are generally not the lightest packers)? Whatever you do, dont overthink small features like pockets. It packs totally flat, about the size of a hard-cover book (like a slim-ish cookbook) which is why its so great! I recently also tried out the Salkan Backpacker and love its roomier size and comfy padding. Oh, and Ive also traveled in Europe a LOT. Vaseline also works in a pinch! A timeless design and durable construction, backed by Osprey's famous "All Mighty Guarantee," is why this is the popular bag you will see in Europe's hostels. As a card-carrying Northern Californian hippie, I wear Birkenstocks until there is a frostbite risk, basically. This is a classic daypack. Some list suggest 1 pair of shoes YA RIGHT! Theyre really comfortable once you get used to them and carry a lower risk of TSS or leaking. Her blog posts merge her educational background and her experience traveling to 60+ countries to encourage thoughtful travel experiences that both educate and entertain. Though its a never-ending debate, the truth is you can travel Europe just fine with either a travel backpack or a carry on suitcase. I loved the organizing features of the Nomatic Travel Bag and, for my latest trip, very nearly chose it as my personal bag except that it just doesnt have quite enough space for me personally. Deodorant | As an American, Im always horrified by the deodorant selections in Europe. Guidebooks | While blogs are great, I also love having paper guidebooks for my travels. And, Im a dude so may not need the cup, but my wife might! So obviously a lot of other people think its one of the best backpacks for traveling Europe. This is the perfect laptop / "personal item" bag for keeping your computer and other items close to you. Most of the others left me dismayed with one bra and three shirts for 14 days travel . And I hope your son enjoys Europe as much as I do! Front AND Top Loading: One of the biggest debates in travel backpacks is whether to go with a front or top loader. So even if you are trying to travel cheaply in Europe, youll save money by buying a backpack that lasts longer. can be blasting so dont forget this. On the other hand, backpacking Europe isnt the same as trekking through Nepal or Patagonia. Toothbrush | I like having a folding toothbrush for travel. Im glad it was useful. Youre welcome David! Quick question thoughts on bras? I am planning a 2 month trip to SE Asia this Dec and Jan ( now retired!!) And yes, I did that all in a carry-on backpack (Ill recommend exactly which one below!) So if youre wondering what to pack for two weeks in Europe, Ive got you covered no matter the time of year. That sounds like an awesome Eurotrip! Your email address will not be published. This packing list for 2 weeks in Europe is your guide to packing light, no matter the season or even the trip length. Ill tweet this out to help others too . Wasnt a huge fan of Singapore, personally. Dont worry even if yourepacking for Europe the first time this list is comprehensive. You can protect yourself by exercising caution, never leaving your bag alone, and investing in a bag lock. While a nice feature, I personally dont think this is necessary if you just need a backpack for travel in Europe. Tip: You can use an international shipping service like Shiply to compare rates on different shipping services to send home items more affordably. Here it is redone. The truth is that youll find a way to pack your stuff in most bags, so its size, comfort, and durability you should be focusing on when picking your backpack. The size is technically just a couple inches longer than most carry-on limitations (with that said Ive now personally carried it on planes twice with zero problems). When I total it up, Ive spent at least a year of my life backpacking across Europe, which is kind of insane to think about. Scarf | Great for when the A/C is blasting, you want to make a surprise church visit, or you just want some flair to change up your outfit. Youre going to be walking around with this bag on your shoulders a fair amount, so finding a bag that comfortably fits your frame is important. I have ridiculously flat hair that needs lots of volume, and I love the Seanik shampoo. That said, you could also just wear your leggings and T-shirts. I always suggest traveling with a large main pack plus a smaller day pack. I want to live there in the future. Slash-Proof Bag slashing is one of the more common crimes targeting backpackers in Europe. Not a light packer? Instead, pick fabrics that also utilize materials like bamboo and hemp which wick moisture away from the body, allowing you to stay cool and sweat less. Men's and Women's versions available. And I can still fit it in my 45L bag! in English and Creative Writing. My partner Clara is currently using this bag, and absolutely loves it: Great Organization: As you would expect from something with the Tortuga brand, this bag offers many different organization features, pockets, and places to stash away small items like keys, a passport, or a charger. What is a good backpack for traveling Europe? Drivers License & International Driving Permit | For many European countries, just your drivers license wont do you may also need an International Driving Permit, which you can get ahead of time from AAA for about $20. Solid Shampoo | Its really nice to have solid shampoo when youre on the road and you need to save some room in your quart-sized bag of liquid toiletries. that I stash all my extras in. The viral Nomatic bag is taking the digital nomad world by storm for good reason. I also will sometimes wear these over a dress as well for a casual look! T-Shirts | Skip 100% cotton T-shirts! Further reading:Want more ideas on what essentials to bring on your trip to Europe? Again, I suggest bringing at least two to add some variety to your photos, if you care about that kind of thing. It definitely passed the test and from 2016-2022, Tortuga has been my go-to travel backpack when Im packing light and using a carry-on. Sorry! Trust me, your shoulders will thank you at the end of the day for using the waist-strap suspension system! Travel Insurance | Especially in this day and age, its foolish to travel without travel insurance. Dry Shampoo | I love having powdered dry shampoo to freshen up my hair between washes or on days when I feel particularly greasy or blah. Its lightweight yet durable, packs down small, but gets the job done at an affordable price. I take my favorites from home and put them in GoToobs. The exception might be if you are planning to do a lot of hiking or outdoor activities and need to bring gear, boots, etc. Awesome job! Front loading is easier when you are trying to organize and pack your bag, but top loading can be much more convenient when actually using the bag in a crowded hostel dorm room or out in the wild. In a rush? This only adds a few dollars onto my budget airline ticket, whereas adding checked luggage usually more than doubles my ticket cost and incurs a long wait at the airport to pick up my bag.