*Later in this post I share a few affiliate links. I may earn a commission if you click on them and make a purchase, at no cost to you. I really appreciate your support!*

SUMMER IN EUROPE SOUNDS DREAMY.

It brings to mind boat rides off the coast of Sicily, sunny afternoons wandering Lisbon’s tiled streets, and evening strolls with gelato in hand.

But it can also mean record heat, limited air conditioning, and lots of time spent on foot.

That’s why a smart packing list for Europe in summer needs to balance comfort, style, and practicality.

Breathable summer fabrics will be your best friend, and comfortable footwear will earn the space it takes up in your carry-on.

If you’re planning a summer vacation in Europe, read on for what to pack — this packing list for Europe in summer outlines everything you’ll need.

The Ultimate Packing List for Europe in Summer

Clothing to Pack for Europe in Summer

Midi or maxi dresses
Linen pants
Loose-fitting tank tops
Short sleeve tops
Crop tops
Flowy skirts or culottes
Neutral t-shirts
Casual blouse
Swimsuit and cover-up
Pajamas and undergarments

WHEN BUILDING YOUR SUMMER TRAVEL OUTFITS, THINK ABOUT BREATHABILITY AND COVERAGE.

Lightweight dresses are my go-to — they pack down small, keep you cool, and look instantly chic.

I also love linen pants paired with tops, be they tank tops, short-sleeved shirts, or crop tops, for daytime exploring.

Choose a few neutral pieces that can be mixed and matched into several outfits.

Avoid any clothing made from synthetic fabrics, since they tend to cling on sweaty days and traps heat against your body.

A swimsuit is always a good idea, even if you’re not headed to the coast.

YOUR HOTEL MAY HAVE A POOL, OR A BIT OF SPONTANEITY MAY BRING YOU TO A BEACH, AFTER ALL.

I also like to pack some sort of swimsuit cover-up for wearing through the hotel lobby on my way to the pool, like a knee length caftan or similar resortwear.

This is a Europe packing list summer travelers can actually enjoy wearing, maximizing comfort on hot days without sacrificing style.

Shoes to Pack for Summer in Europe

Colorful sneakers
Supportive sandals or walking sandals
Comfortable flat sandals
Espadrilles

SHOES CAN MAKE OR BREAK YOUR TRIP.

I usually bring three: colorful sneakers, supportive sandals, and something a little more stylish like espadrilles.

Sneakers are great for travel days or exploring indoor spaces like museums or exhibitions.

Sandals help your feet breathe when the temperature spikes, but be sure your pair has a substantial sole and is comfortable enough to wear for a whole day of walking.

I’VE WORN THE SAME PAIR OF BLACK AND GOLD BIRKENSTOCK ARIZONA SANDALS THROUGH COBBLESTONED CITIES AND SEASIDE TOWNS, AND THEY’VE NEVER LET ME DOWN.

I also have a pair of flat-soled slide sandals, but these are more fashionable pieces as they aren’t suitable for a day of walking through the city.

Espadrilles also fall into this category, being a chic choice for dinner that might give you blisters if you wore them for an entire day.

The key is choosing pairs that are broken in and walkable.

YOUR FEET WILL THANK YOU.

CTA Graphics for Summary Blocks

Outerwear and Layers for Cool Evenings

Oversized denim jacket
Leather jacket
Linen button-down
Scarf or pashmina

Even summer nights can get cool, especially in Northern Europe or coastal areas.

I usually bring one outer layer, either an oversized jean jacket or a fitted leather jacket, to throw over dresses or linen tops at night.

IT’S ENOUGH TO KEEP THE CHILL AWAY ON A LATE BOAT RIDE OR AN ALFRESCO DINNER BY THE WATER.

If you’re heading to Southern Europe, a scarf or pashmina may be all you need.

Added bonus: a scarf can cover your tank-topped shoulders when visiting religious sites where modesty is appreciated, like Catholic churches in Italy, or mosques in Istanbul.

Either way, layering helps extend your summer travel outfits from day to night, without the need to change completely.

Accessories for Summer Travel

Crossbody bag
Straw tote or foldable beach bag
Sunglasses
Sunhat or straw hat
Reusable water bottle
Handheld fan
Packing cubes

You don’t need to overpack on accessories so long as you prioritize versatile pieces that can function in multiple scenarios.

While a crossbody bag is still my go-to for city exploring, during the summer months, a straw tote can double as both a daytime purse and beach bag.

SUNGLASSES ARE SO IMPORTANT DURING THE LONG, SUNNY DAYS OF SUMMER!

And if you’re a pale queen like me, don't be afraid to add a sun hat.

Hats made of straw will add a fashionable look to most outfits, while those on hiking excursions might opt for hats made of UV-protected performance fabrics.

During summer it’s also a good idea to pack a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated, and a handheld fan to combat heat waves.

IF YOU’RE HOPING TO KEEP YOUR SUITCASE ORGANIZED THROUGHOUT YOUR TRIP, PACKING CUBES CAN HELP KEEP OUTFITS SEPARATED BY TYPE OR BY OUTFIT, TOO.

(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.)

Summer Skincare

Daily face moisturizer with SPF
SPF sunscreen
Lip balm with SPF
After-sun lotion or aloe vera
Face mist or hydrating spray
Travel deodorant
Razor, toothbrush, daily toiletries
Any daily make-up products
Bug spray

BETWEEN THE SUN AND SWEAT, SKINCARE MATTERS EVEN MORE IN SUMMER.

Be sure to pack lightweight, travel-sized products that won’t melt or leak.

Sunscreen is non-negotiable, and should be present in your daily moisturizer, a dedicated sunscreen for the body, and a lip balm, too.

I also keep a face mist in my bag on days when I’ll be outside for extended periods of time — it’s perfect for a quick refresh.

IF I’VE BEEN OUT ALL DAY, A LITTLE ALOE GEL POST-SHOWER MAKES A BIG DIFFERENCE.

I also always bring bug spray, especially for evenings near water in Southern Europe.

Rather than packing your daily make-up routine, consider the heat factor and avoid any heavy foundations or products that might melt.

Opt for lighter formulas, like tinted moisturizers with SPF, instead.

CTA Graphics for Summary Blocks

Packing Tips for Summer in Europe

Opt for natural fabrics like linen and cotton
Pack light colors that reflect sun
Choose items you can hand-wash and air dry
Stick to a 3-shoe maximum rule
Don’t forget a sunhat and SPF

Summer packing is all about keeping your wardrobe light and breathable.

I prefer a neutral palette that works across several Europe trip outfits, and I always prioritize pieces I actually enjoy wearing.

NATURAL FABRICS KEEP YOU COOL, AND LIGHT COLORS WON’T SHOW SALT MARKS OR SWEAT STAINS.

And when in doubt?

Pack less than you think you need, and optimize for those wardrobe pieces that you already love to wear.

What Not to Pack for Summer in Europe

Heavy denim or thick fabric
More than one pair of heels
Tight, synthetic fabrics
High-maintenance clothes that wrinkle easily

You don’t need your full wardrobe in Europe, just the most warm-weather friendly pieces from it.

Remember that air conditioning is not as common in Europe as it is in the U.S., and that an outfit that feels comfortable in the air conditioned confines of your home may make you miserable in the midday sun of Southern Europe.

LEAVE THE HEAVY JEANS AND SIMILARLY THICK FABRICS AT HOME.

And while it’s fine to pack one nice outfit that requires a quick press, anything that requires constant ironing is a no.

Opt for looser styles that don’t hug the body, and don’t pack synthetic fabrics, as they’ll trap heat next to the body on hot days.

Heels are another item that can be left at home — if you must have a bit of height, choose low wedge styles that won’t get caught in cobblestones.

Conclusion

Summer in Europe is one of the most magical times!

And with a properly planned packing list for Europe in summer, it’s easier to build a travel wardrobe you’ll actually want to wear.

FOCUS ON BREATHABLE FABRICS, VERSATILE OUTFITS, AND COMFORTABLE SHOES.

Whether you're planning brand new summer travel outfits or simply trying to decide which of your existing pieces will help you stay cool on the go, this list will help keep you stylish and sane.

I sincerely hope that this guide to packing for Europe in summer can help you spend less time worrying about your suitcase and more time planning amazing experiences for the trip.

Until next time,

Angela 😎

PLANNING A VACATION?

When you book through my links, you help support the site — at no extra cost to you.
Thanks for being a part of the Notes From Here journey! ❤️

💃 Book Tours and Experiences with Viator

🛎️ Find Hotels with Booking.com

🚗 Find a Rental Car with Discover Cars

🛡️ Get Travel Insurance with SafetyWing

🚄 Book a Train or Bus with Omio

YOU’LL ALSO LOVE…