I Traveled Europe for 3 Months Using Only a 40L Backpack – Here’s My Packing List
Packing light for Europe changed my travel game forever. I used to lug around a massive backpack, struggling to hoist it onto trains and squeezing it into tiny hostel lockers. Now, I breeze through airports and cobblestone streets with just a carry-on. My ultralight Europe packing list fits everything I need into a 30L backpack, weighing less than 15 pounds.
I’ve learned to embrace minimalism and versatility when choosing what to bring. My go-to travel outfit doubles as casual sightseeing wear. A lightweight merino wool sweater from Icebreaker keeps me warm without bulk. For electronics, I stick to essentials like my iPhone and a compact Anker power bank.
Toiletries are where many travelers overpack, but I’ve streamlined mine to the bare necessities. A small bottle of Dr. Bronner’s soap serves as body wash, shampoo, and laundry detergent. My Eagle Creek compression packing cube helps me fit more clothes while keeping everything organized. With these ultralight strategies, I can explore Europe freely, unburdened by heavy luggage.
Contents
Complete Packing List
Packing ultralight for Europe requires careful consideration of essential items. I’ve refined my list through years of travel to include versatile pieces that maximize space and functionality.
Ultralight Europe Packing List
I always start with my trusty 35L backpack, which fits easily in overhead compartments. For clothes, I pack:
- 3 quick-dry t-shirts
- 2 pairs of lightweight pants (one convertible to shorts)
- 1 merino wool sweater
- 1 packable rain jacket
- 3 pairs of underwear
- 3 pairs of socks
- 1 pair of comfortable walking shoes
My toiletries are minimal:
- Travel-sized toothbrush and toothpaste
- Solid shampoo bar
- Multi-purpose soap
- Deodorant
- Sunscreen
For electronics, I bring:
- Smartphone with offline maps
- Portable battery pack
- Universal adapter
I never forget my microfiber towel and a lightweight sleep mask. For security, I use a hidden money belt.
My favorite ultralight backpack is the Osprey Farpoint 40. It’s durable and perfectly sized for European travel.
I swear by ExOfficio underwear for quick-drying comfort. Paired with Darn Tough socks, my feet stay fresh even on long travel days.
Packing Strategies
I’ve learned that packing light for Europe is all about strategy. My top tip? Roll your clothes instead of folding them. This saves space and reduces wrinkles.
Packing cubes are a game-changer. I love the Eagle Creek Pack-It Cubes – they keep everything organized and compact.
Choosing versatile clothing is key. I pack items that can be mixed and matched for different outfits. A lightweight, wrinkle-resistant travel dress like the Patagonia Fleetwith has been a lifesaver on my trips.
For toiletries, I transfer everything into small, reusable containers. The GoToob+ silicone travel bottles are perfect for this.
I always pack a few Ziploc bags. They’re great for separating dirty clothes or protecting electronics from moisture.
Shoes take up a lot of space, so I limit myself to two pairs max. A comfortable walking shoe like the Allbirds Wool Runners and a dressier option usually do the trick.
Lastly, I wear my bulkiest items on the plane to save space in my bag. This usually means my heaviest shoes and jacket.
My Tips For Staying Organized
Packing cubes are my secret weapon for staying organized. I swear by these handy little containers to keep my clothes neatly separated and compressed. My go-to is the Eagle Creek Pack-It Cube Set.
I use a small toiletry bag to corral all my bathroom essentials. The Sea to Summit Travelling Light Hanging Toiletry Bag is compact yet spacious enough for my needs.
Keeping track of small items is crucial. I rely on ziplock bags to sort and protect things like adapters, cables, and medications. They’re lightweight and see-through, making it easy to find what I need quickly.
For documents and money, I use a slim travel wallet. The Bellroy Travel Wallet holds my passport, cards, and cash without bulking up my pocket.
I always pack a lightweight daypack for exploring cities. The Matador Freerain24 Waterproof Backpack folds up tiny but expands to hold everything I need for a day out.
To keep my electronics organized, I use the Peak Design Tech Pouch. It’s perfect for storing chargers, cables, and other small gadgets in one place.
Lessons Learned
Packing ultralight for Europe taught me some valuable lessons. I’ve realized less truly is more when it comes to travel.
Versatile clothing is key. My merino wool t-shirts and convertible pants were lifesavers, adapting to various situations and climates.
I learned to embrace minimalism. Bringing only essentials freed me from lugging heavy bags and worrying about lost luggage.
Packing cubes like these Eagle Creek compression cubes were game-changers. They kept my bag organized and saved space.
I discovered the power of multi-use items. My Buff headwear served as a scarf, eye mask, and even a makeshift towel.
Investing in quality gear pays off. My Osprey Farpoint 40 backpack withstood cobblestone streets and countless train rides.
I learned to pack smarter, not harder. Choosing lightweight, quick-dry fabrics like those from ExOfficio made laundry a breeze.
Embracing digital alternatives saved space. I ditched physical books for a Kindle Paperwhite, which doubled as my guidebook.
Ultimately, I found that experiences matter more than possessions. Traveling light allowed me to focus on creating memories, not managing stuff.
My Sample 3-Month Europe Itinerary
I’ve crafted an exciting 3-month Europe itinerary based on my experiences and research. This route hits many of the continent’s highlights while allowing for a leisurely pace.
I’m kicking things off in London for 4 days. It’s a perfect starting point with its rich history and vibrant culture. My favorite daypack for city exploring is the Osprey Daylite Plus.
Next, I’m hopping on the Eurostar to Paris for 4 days of art, cuisine, and romance. A comfortable pair of walking shoes is crucial – I love my Allbirds Tree Runners.
Amsterdam follows for 3 days of canal-side wandering and museum-hopping. I’m packing my Pacsafe Metrosafe LS350 for peace of mind in busy areas.
Berlin’s calling for 4 days of history and nightlife. I’ll need my Anker PowerCore 10000 to keep my phone charged during long days out.
I’m excited for 3 days each in Prague and Budapest. These cities are perfect for my Teva Original Universal sandals – comfy for walking but easy to slip off at thermal baths.
Heading south, I’ll spend 3 days in Bucharest before ending with 2-3 days in Sofia. My Icebreaker Merino T-shirts will be perfect for the warmer weather.
This itinerary leaves room for spontaneous side trips and rest days. I can’t wait to explore Europe with my ultralight gear!
