I Traveled to Europe 5 Times This Year—Here's What I Always Packed

Between work trips that took me to Paris Fashion Week and Italy and personal travel back to some of those spots again, I’ve hopped the pond with travels to Europe five times over the last year. Through each of these trips, I’ve been able to refine my packing habits after learning which items were essentials and the pieces I wish I had added to my suitcase. But now, I really have it down.

When it comes to planning what I’ll be bringing, I have a few categories I consider. My biggest consideration is always fashion and the outfits I’ll be wearing. But equally important are the beauty products so I don’t have too many trips to the local pharmacy. Another important essential? All of the electronics and cords I don’t want to leave behind.

If you’re planning a trip overseas and want to know how to master a European packing list, I’m here to point you in the right direction. Ahead, I’m breaking down my guide for arriving with everything you need. Scroll down to see my Europe packing tips and the pieces I’ll never go abroad without.

MATCHING LUGGAGE

For years I traveled without proper luggage, but I finally picked up a set of matching suitcases from Away, and it was such a great investment. What I love most about these bags is they come with built-in USB chargers so I can power up my phone without having to track down an outlet.

PACK IN OUTFITS

Here's a trick I've learned from fashion girls across the industry: Pack in outfits. If you can map out what you're wearing ahead of time, it allows you to cut down on extra pieces you won't end up wearing. I also make sure to pack versatile items that I can mix and match into different looks.

COMFORTABLE SNEAKERS

I've made the mistake of buying new sneakers for a trip or forgetting to pack a pair altogether. I always end up walking around a lot, though, so I've learned my lesson. Now, I make sure to always pack a pair of sneakers that have already been broken in.

A GO-ANYWHERE BAG

Instead of packing a ton of bag options, I prefer to keep a tight edit so I don't overstuff my suitcase. One of my essentials is a style like this Chanel bag that I throw across my body so I'm hands-free and can easily transition from day to night.

CONSIDER THE WEATHER

In the winter, I always make sure to pack a versatile jacket like this cashmere trench from Burberry. A bulky item like this is something I want to only pack one of and be able to wear with everything.

Now, when it comes to summer travel, swimsuits are something I always throw in my suitcase.

ELECTRONICS

Two of the most important pieces I make sure to pack? Devices to charge all of my electronics while I'm abroad.

LEAVE ROOM FOR TRAVEL PURCHASES

Because I always scope out the vintage stores when I'm in a new city, I leave some extra room in my suitcase so I can pack any travel finds. This shot is from last year when I spotted a vintage store in Paris stocked with racks and racks of Chanel.

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