International travel is one of the most exciting and thrilling experiences you can have in this world. It is an opportunity to open your mind and the way you look at the cultures around you. But not all of the process may feel like a heavenly experience. You have to remember to get passports and visas processed, pack everything you may (or may not need) for while you are away, and take care of work responsibilities and family needs in advance.
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This list won’t be a completely comprehensive one, since every family or situation is different. I have also decided to make a few, so this one is specifically focused on packing for international European travel.
Indonesian travel packing list
Beach/Cruise packing list
Clothing Essentials
3-5 tops (varying length of sleeve by season)
1-3 pairs of pants
Fedora / panama hat / ball cap / beanie (by season)
International Travel Essentials
Passport / ID / Visa (if needed)
RFID wallet or money belt: Fave / Other fave / Money belt
Printed Itinerary
Personal Care Essentials
Extra contacts / Glasses
Medications
Other Essentials
Camera battery / charger
Credit card
Health insurance cards
What it ultimately comes down to is this: pack light! I completely understand the desire to not have the same outfit on in all of your pictures, or worrying that you won’t have enough of any specific items. But this is something that I would recommend no matter what the situation.
Europe is filled with gorgeous places, from the Colosseum in Italy to the Cliffs of Moher in Ireland and hundreds of castles spreading from Germany to Switzerland and everywhere around. But guess what else? Most of the roads are brick and cobblestone, or paved pretty roughly. I can tell you first hand that dragging big, heavy suitcases across all of these conditions is hard work. I got a good workout and big muscles but if this is not your main purpose for traveling and enjoying your vacation, I recommend packing light.
One of the easiest ways to do this is by laying everything you think you need out ahead of time, and then come back to it and start eliminating. Cut a shirt or pair of jeans out of your piles, or change out an outfit that will match with multiple items so you can reuse and repurpose.
Jewelry and scarves can be a great way to change up a simple outfit and convert it to something new. Be creative and pack for comfort and a good time! You are traveling internationally and will be seeing some of the most magical sites you could possibly imagine. Make sure you are enjoying your stay and not just worrying about who likes your outfit.
You are in for the ride of your life!
Did I miss something you recommend and love to take on your international trips? Make sure to comment below and share with friends and family…it’s always a good time to travel!
XO – Heather
