The Ultimate Packing List for Europe in Autumn
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Crisp air in Paris, golden leaves in Berlin, and cozy cafés in Vienna — fall is one of my favorite seasons to explore all that Europe has to offer.
And just like in spring, it’s a time of year when you can experience three seasons in a single day.
One minute you're basking in the afternoon sun at an outdoor café, the next you're rushing through a chilly drizzle back to your hotel.
THAT’S WHY THE SECRET TO SMART PACKING FOR AUTUMN IN EUROPE IS ALL ABOUT PREPARATION AND VERSATILITY.
This guide will walk you through the essentials for autumn, so you can feel confident and stylish, no matter what the fall weather throws your way.
The Ultimate Packing List for Europe in Autumn
Clothing to Pack for Europe in Autumn
Neutral-colored t-shirts
Tank tops
Bodysuits
Lightweight sweaters
Cashmere sweaters
Button-down shirts
Jeans
Trousers
Midi or knee-length skirts
Dresses
Leggings
PACKING FOR EUROPE IN THE FALL IS ALL ABOUT LAYERS.
The mornings might be brisk, but by mid-afternoon, you could be shedding your coat and sipping wine on an outdoor patio.
I like to start with a base of neutral-colored tees and tanks, then top with a button-down shirt or a lightweight sweater.
These pieces work well together, but can also be worn on their own, depending on the weather.
I always bring jeans and trousers for day-to-day wear, along with a midi skirt or a dress that can be dressed up or down.
And leggings are a must for travel days where I’ll be navigating the train station or airport and sitting for extended periods of time.
Shoes to Pack for Autumn in Europe
Sneakers
Ankle boots
Loafers
Waterproof shoes
Footwear can be tricky in fall, especially if the forecast looks rainy.
I try to keep it to three pairs: a comfy pair of sneakers for long days on my feet, a cute pair of ankle boots that go with everything, and a pair of loafers or flats for dinners out.
PERSONALLY, I ALWAYS CHOOSE LEATHER ANKLE BOOTS WITH A STURDY, LOW HEEL.
They just seem to hold up better in unpredictable weather than other versions made of suede, or with higher heels.
Outerwear and Layers for Autumn
Trench coat
Denim jacket
Leather jacket
Wool coat
Cardigans
OUTERWEAR IS AN AUTUMN STAPLE THAT CAN MAKE ANY OUTFIT LOOK POLISHED.
I always travel with a trench coat in fall — it’s sophisticated and practical, especially in cities like Paris or Milan.
If you’re heading to Southern Europe, you should be fine with a heavy blazer or leather jacket, too.
If I’m heading to Northern or Eastern Europe in late fall, I’ll swap one of those lighter layers for a wool coat.
BE MINDFUL OF JACKETS THAT MAKE LAYERING COMFORTABLE.
If the weather takes a turn to the cool side, you can always add an extra sweater or cardigan to stay warm.
Accessories for Autumn Travel
Scarves
Hats
Leather gloves
Gloves
Umbrella
Crossbody bag
Jewelry
Packing cubes
Refillable water bottle
Fall is a great time to play with accessories, from scarves and berets to leather gloves.
I always pack at least one cashmere or wool scarf that can double as a wrap on a chilly evening, and a beret or knit hat is great on windy days.
RAIN CAN BE VERY UNPREDICTABLE IN AUTUMN, SO I ALWAYS PACK A SMALL TRAVEL UMBRELLA.
A crossbody bag is my preference for daytime exploring, but I also pack a foldable top handle bag, like a small leather Longchamp Le Pliage, for evenings.
Packing cubes can keep different types of layers organized, and a refillable water bottle helps me stay hydrated.
(Psst, I also wrote a post on all the international travel essentials, like power adapters and eSIMs, that you should be sure to pack. Read it here.)
Autumn Skincare
Daily face moisturizer with SPF
Lip balm with SPF
Face mist or hydrating spray
Hand cream
Travel deodorant
Razor, toothbrush, daily toiletries
Any daily make-up products
AS WE SHIFT INTO AUTUMN, THE LIST OF SKINCARE ITEMS TO PACK GETS MORE MANAGEABLE.
Gone is the need for a dedicated bottle of SPF, so long as your daily moisturizer includes some, and things like bug spray and after sun care can be left at home, too.
Fall weather can be drying on the skin, so I bring a richer moisturizer, lip balm, and a small bottle of hand cream to keep in my day bag.
Essentials like deodorant, toothbrush, and other daily toiletries are also a must.
Packing Tips for Autumn in Europe
Stick to a neutral color palette for easy mixing and matching
Plan for layering: think base, warmth, and outerwear
Limit shoes to three pairs: walkable, dressy, and weatherproof
Use packing cubes to separate tops, bottoms, and layers
Check average temperatures and wind speed for a real sense of how it feels outside
Packing for fall in Europe is all about versatility and layering.
I try to build a travel capsule wardrobe that can handle sun, wind, and rain without needing 10 different outfits.
To be fair, that’s easier said than done — I suggest trying on different outfit combinations to ensure that each piece in your wardrobe is comfortable as a layering piece, and also that you enjoy wearing it.
YOU MAY ALSO FIND YOUR TASTES SHIFTING FROM SEASON TO SEASON.
I wasn’t always the biggest cardigan person, but lately I’ve found that they’re a great option for cozy warmth but also easy to take off when the sun comes out.
I’ve also learned to check the temperature as well as the wind speed.
Warm days can be drastically cooler than the temperature makes it seem when the wind is high, so I always check whether significant wind will make a hat or heavier scarf necessary.
Conclusion
Whether you’re museum-hopping in Madrid or wandering through the autumnal English Garden in Munich, fall is one of the most magical times to explore Europe.
With the right wardrobe, you’ll be ready to take advantage of Europe’s prime season for travel, no matter what the weather might throw your way.
PACK SMART, STAY COMFORTABLE, AND DON’T FORGET YOUR SCARF — IT’S THE BEST ACCESSORY FOR EUROPE IN THE FALL.
Until next time,
Angela
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