Traveling to Europe? 30 Essential Items Travelers Almost Always Forget But Actually Need

Don’t let excitement turn into “I wish I had packed that!”

First-time travelers to Europe often discover what’s truly essential only after they’ve left home.

This comprehensive checklist covers 30 easily overlooked items so that you remember to pack them for your European adventure!

What Many Travelers Often Forget to Pack For Europe

These thirty essential items are frequently left behind but can significantly improve your European travel experience.

1. Electronics & Power

• Multi-Port International Adapter with USB ports – Essential for European trips; allows you to charge multiple devices simultaneously – this one from Amazon is great
• High-Capacity Power Bank – Keeps phones and devices charged during full days of sightseeing and long transfers – I love this tiny one from Amazon
• Smartphone Flash Drive – Perfect for backing up photos when your phone storage gets full – Grab it from Amazon here
• Slim plug-in night light – Invaluable for unfamiliar bathrooms and hotel rooms

2. Health & Safety

• Personal Medication and First Aid Kit – Combine prescription medications, blister bandages and essentials; European pharmacies might not carry your preferred brands
• Portable door lock or door stop alarm – Adds an extra layer of security in budget accommodations or when staying in Airbnbs – grab one from Amazon here
• Quality Earplugs – Essential for sleeping in noisy city centers, hostels, or thin-walled European hotels
• Insect Repellent – Particularly important when visiting Southern European countries during summer months

3. Personal Care

• Anti-Chafing Cream – A lifesaver for long walking days in; prevents discomfort that can ruin your sightseeing plans
• Travel Pack of Tissues – Many public restrooms throughout Europe don’t provide toilet paper or charge for it
• Packable Washcloth – Not commonly provided in European hotels where they expect guests to bring their own

4. Weather & Comfort Items

• Compact Travel Umbrella – European weather can change quickly, especially in countries like the UK, Ireland, and parts of Central Europe – grab a packable one from Amazon here
• Versatile Scarf or Shawl – Serves multiple purposes: warmth on chilly evenings, style accessory, and covering shoulders when visiting churches
• Portable Handheld/Neck Fan – A blessing during summer travel in Mediterranean countries where air conditioning isn’t always guaranteed – grab a cheap one from Amazon here
• Water Shoes – Essential for rocky beaches in Croatia, Greece, and parts of Italy, as well as thermal baths in Hungary

5. Security & Organization

• Pickpocket-Proof Backpack/Sling Bag – Provides peace of mind in crowded tourist areas and on public transportation – I love this theft-proof cross body bag from Amazon.
• Money belt or hidden pouch – Keeps valuables secure in crowded areas like train stations, markets, and major attractions – this one from Amazon is fantastic.
• Ziplock bags – Multiple sizes for organizing small items, waterproofing electronics during sudden rain, or storing snacks
• Digital luggage scale – Helps avoid expensive overweight baggage fees, especially when returning with souvenirs – grab one from Amazon here

6. Practical Items

• Travel Laundry Kit – Soap sheets and a portable clothesline allow you to pack lighter and wash clothes during longer trips – grab yours from Amazon
• Compact Water Bottle (0.5L) – Saves money on bottled water purchases; many European cities have public drinking fountains
• Lightweight Shopping/Beach Bag – Many European countries charge for plastic bags; doubles as a day bag for excursions
• Small amount of local currency – For immediate needs upon arrival; some small vendors, transit options, and public toilets require coins
• Universal Sink Stopper – European hotel sinks often lack stoppers, making hand-washing clothes challenging – grab one from Amazon here
• Wrinkle Release Spray – Refreshes clothes without iron access, particularly useful in budget accommodations – grab it from Amazon here
• Travel-sized stain remover pen/wipes – Perfect for quick fixes when pasta sauce inevitably splashes on your favorite outfit – grab it from Amazon here

7. Clothing & Footwear

• Comfy Thick-Soled Walking Shoes – The single most essential item for European travel; cobblestone streets will destroy flimsy footwear
• Church-Appropriate Clothing – Many religious sites require covered shoulders and knees; denied entry means missing iconic attractions
• Quick-dry underwear – Perfect for hand-washing and wearing the next day, allowing you to pack fewer pairs

8. Sun Protection

• Complete sun protection kit – Combine sunscreen, sunglasses, packable hat, lip balm with SPF, and after-sun lotion

Final Thoughts on What Europe Travelers Often Forget to Pack

Remember that the best souvenirs are memories, not regrets about what you forgot to bring.

First-time Europe travelers who pack these essentials can focus on enjoying trip rather than scrambling to find replacements abroad.

Looking for more Europe travel blog posts? Check out:

• Most Beautiful Countries in Europe – Discover breathtaking destinations for your next adventure
• Most Unusual Places to Stay in Europe – Experience one-of-a-kind accommodations beyond ordinary hotels

Find more expert Europe travel guides, destination tips, and itineraries on our blog.