Packing list for a week in Europe: one bag, any season

A week in Europe is a walking trip. You will cover more ground on foot than at home, on stone, in lines and up stairs. Pack for your feet first and everything else second.

This packing list for a week in Europe works in any season. Add layers for cold and cut them for heat. Check the forecast for your dates, since weather varies a lot by country and month.

The formula for 7 days

1 top per 1.5 days. 3 bottoms. 1 underwear and sock set per day.

Worked example (round numbers):

• Tops: 5. Wear a top twice if it is not sweaty.
• Bottoms: 3. One on your body, two in the bag.
• Underwear and socks: 7 sets, or 4 if you rinse some at the sink.
• Sleepwear: 1 set.
• Shoes: 2 pairs. One you wear, one lighter pair for evenings or rain.
• One layer: a light jacket or a cardigan that goes with everything.

Ruling: if two outfits do not mix with the rest of the bag, leave them out.

What goes on your body

• Your walking shoes, the heaviest pair
• Your jacket
• Your thickest bottoms
• A scarf, which also works on a cold train

The documents and small stuff

• Passport or ID. Check the entry rules of each country with its official government site, since they differ.
• A plug adapter. Plugs vary across the region, so check what your stops use.
• A small crossbody bag for your phone, card and keys
• A power bank, packed in your carry-on, not your checked bag. Check the airline's battery rules.
• Copy of bookings on your phone

Dress for the places you will go

Some churches and religious sites ask for covered shoulders and knees. Our guide to what to wear to religious sites when travelling shows how to cover up with one scarf. Restaurants range from casual to smart, so one slightly nicer top is useful.

Leave at home

• Three pairs of jeans
• A big umbrella (buy a small one if needed)
• Hairdryer, if your hotel has one
• Brand new shoes you have not walked in

If it goes wrong

• Rain all week. Wear a hooded jacket and dark shoes. Skip the umbrella.
• Blisters on day two. Plasters in the bag, and switch shoes daily.
• Bag too heavy. Take out the third pair of shoes and the book.

If you are splitting your week across cities, our city break packing list shows what to pack for a 3 to 4 day stop. For washing on the road, see how to do laundry while traveling.