Regardless of how many places I have traveled and what time of the year, I really like just having a list of what to pack. I am also notorious for wanting to always be prepared for anything, I suppose that can be a good and bad quality. In which case that you also like being prepared, maybe I can help you pack your bags when planning a trip to Europe in the spring.
Spring is one of the BEST times to visit Europe. From March to May, you will find that the places you want to visit will be less crowded with tourists, and to me, the weather is just right. Depending on which spring month you are visiting in (March, April, May) will slightly variate the list as to what you should pack, but there is a general list you can go by to ensure you are prepared.
Take note that March will be the very beginning of spring, and still could be quite chilly, while May is a bit closer to summer and will be a bit warmer (however you should still be prepared for a chilly night or two). Currently, I’ve been in the UK now for the month of Feb, so some of my pictures featured here will be me in a bit more of winter attire, however, the basics are the basics.
Average temperatures for most European countries in Spring:
· March: The average temperature ranges from a low of 31F (-0.5C) to a high of 57F (14C).
· April: The average temperature ranges from a low of 42F (5.5C) to a high of 65F (18C).
· May: The average temperature ranges from a low of 43F (6C) to a high of 73F (22.7C).
So, if you are looking to visit Europe in the spring, keep reading this list and tips for an extra hand packing.
Tips for packing
1. Pack lightly, and I cannot stress this enough I had such a hard time getting around when I had my 23kg (50lb) suitcase and a carry on, as there are only stairs [and a lot of them] at almost all of the train stations and bus stations in Europe. It was a nightmare trying to lug everything around. Try and pack as lightly as you can to ensure you don’t lose an arm trying to carry your bags around while simultaneously trying to figure out which train to take and from what platform.
Another reason you want to pack lightly is because of all the extra baggage fees with most European airlines. If you can fit everything in a carry on, more power to you! If you are like me, and that’s just not feasible, then be prepared to pay baggage fees. Also, the overhead bins are slightly smaller on most of the airplanes in Europe, so your make sure your carry on meets the size requirements, because they will likely charge you anywhere from 30 to 70 euro at the airport if you have to check your bag last minute.
2. Bring clothes and shoes that you can mix and match
Avoid too many “conversational pieces”. These are difficult bring-alongs when you are limited in suitcase space. If you are trying to pack smart, you really should bring clothing items that you can re-wear and mix and match.
3. Remember you will likely be walking around a lot, so bring comfortable shoes The good news is that sneakers are all the rage in Europe, so bring along your comfiest sneakers to prepare for all the walking about. Comfy boots are a must as well, as they keep you a bit warmer and look great with almost everything. My advice is don’t even bother bringing any sort of heels unless you are going to London, Paris, or Italy, and are either really serious about looking fancy for a date or wanting to capture some amazing Insta style photos.
4. Pack clothes that you can layer Layers are key in Europe. If the sun peeks out you can take off your sweater and scarf, and if the sun hides away you can throw your other layers back on.
5. Leave room for souvenirs
Most all of us will want to shop a bit in Europe, make sure that you leave space and weight allowance for a bit of shopping on your trip.
6. Make sure to alert your bank that you are going out of the country Some banks see foreign transactions as a red light and will put a block on your card (this is a mess to deal with once you are already there). Call your bank before the trip to let them know you are leaving the country.
7. If you are traveling for an extended period of time check out T-Mobile ONE international phone plan While I travel in and out of the country all the time, I found T-Mobile’s international plan to be a serious life saver. It is SUPER affordable, I was able to keep my number, and it works in pretty much every country. Check it out here! 8. Pick a bag that stands out or add a ribbon or sticker If you are checking a bag, pick one that stands out. While so many bags look alike, pick one up that is a bright color or unique pattern, so you can easily identify it when at baggage claim. If you don’t want to buy a new suitcase, add a colorful ribbon or sticker instead.
What to pack
1. A couple of basic long sleeve shirts Bring some along two or three of your favorite long sleeve shirts that you can re-wear and mix and match. On colder days you will maybe even want to wear one of your long sleeve shirts under your sweater and your jacket. Layers in Europe are ideal, they ensure that you can stay warm outside and peel off a few layers whenever you are cozy inside the pub.
2. Two short sleeve shirts for warmer days If the sun comes out while you are visiting, there is a chance that the temp could reach about 65F, however, in the sun, it can feel like 70F or higher. Bring a couple of your favorite neutral short sleeve shirts just in case you see warmer weather. Especially bring these along if you are traveling to Europe towards the end of Spring, in May.
3. Two or three of your favorite sweaters Unless your sweaters are thin, you will probably only be able to pack in two. 4. Long underwear, just in case Like I said, depending on which time of spring you are traveling, there is a possibility it could still be pretty cold. Bring some long johns to wear under your clothes just in case. 5. A scarf or two (try and keep it neutral) Bring a neutral scarf or two that you can mix and match and layer on for colder evenings. 6. A light jacket Since the weather can very, bring a light jacket to wear on most days.
7. A winter’s coat No matter when you are going in spring, you will want to bring a warm coat. Even if you go in May, the nights will be colder and you will want to have something warm to put on.
8. A couple pairs of extra warm socks Make sure you bring warms socks. It’s crazy how you can be warm from head to ankle, and your feet still feel like they have frost bite. 9. Gloves Bring some gloves just in case. These are especially great for when you visit countries that are prominently bike-traveled, like Holland or Belgium. Bring gloves to keep your fingers warm on colder nights or river-side bike rides. 10. One pair of boots Don’t forget your favorite pair of boots, they are the ultimate diverse shoe. Comfy for walking and tall boots are great for keeping you warm.
11. One pair of sneakers Sneakers, sneakers, sneakers. I freaking love sneakers. I was so glad when I moved to Germany in 2016 that everyone wore sneakers out to the clubs at night as opposed to heels like they do in Dallas. With all the walking you are going to be doing, you want to be wearing comfy shoes.
12. Tights If you do decide to bring along one of your favorite skirts or dresses, make sure to bring tights to keep your legs a bit warmer (especially at night). 13. A beanie Bring a cute beanie for those colder days and nights.
14. Three of your favorite pants Obviously you will need pants, so bring along two or three of your favorite pairs. I would say a pair of black pants and a pair or two of regular blue jeans. 15. Sweats (optional) For cozy nights in at your hostel or Air B&B. 16. Leggings Because leggings are life. 17. And of course, your workout gear (after all the bread, cheese, and wine will be flowing) 18. Hand cream For chapped hands on colder days. 19. Face moisturizer with SPF Traveling tends to dry out your skin, especially when you are on airplanes. Make sure you bring a face moisturizer along (in your checked bag or of appropriate size) to keep your skin from chapping. While you will likely be spending a lot of time outside (regardless of if it is sunny) bring a moisturizer that has a bit of SPF for sun protection. 20. Ibuprofen For after drinking all of the wine. (Ibuprofen is my pain-pill of choice as it is filtered through your kidneys and not your liver like Tylenol). 21. 1 or 2 European (and UK) plug adapters You will definitely need some adapters to keep all your electronic goodies charged. I would suggest buying these ahead of time to avoid the trouble and higher prices when you are there. I would suggest Amazon, and I would suggest two in case one gets lost or broken. 22. A shoulder bag, a fanny pack, or purse that is easy to carry Bring your favorite purse that is easy to carry. It will be comfier with all the walking, as well as well easier to keep track of when trying to get around. My bag featured in the photo below is a DKNY belt bag that I got for $15 at Marshalls. I also picked up an amazing leather fanny pack for 1 pound at a second-hand shop in England. Love.
23. Ear buds for walking and traveling alone
Make sure you don’t forget your ear buds or head phones to jam out while you walk around and sit on trains and buses.
24. A safe travel bag for your passport
Keeping your passport safe is of utmost importance. Get a travel bag that straps to you to ensure it doesn’t fall out of your bag or get misplaced. Side note, you will need it when traveling from country to country on train or bus as well, otherwise you can receive a fine.
25. A portable bag scale
I always travel with a portable bag scale. It is amazing how easily your bag can become overweight on the way home with all the goodies you picked up on your journey.
Well there you have it. Go by these tips and packing list and you should be all set for your trip! I hope you enjoyed the read, and thanks for stopping by. Comment for any questions or requests and stay tuned or subscribe for more posts on traveling easier, safer, and cheaper!
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