Last Updated on August 10, 2018 by Jane
We are planning on heading back to Europe this fall. Well at least that is what I told my husband we are planning. And I want to do a better job of packing than I did last year. When we visited Prague, Vienna & Budapest I was so excited to wear some colder weather items that I packed too many scarves and layers. I failed to predict a late Indian summer heat and much of what I packed was unnecessary for the back half of our trip. I am toying with the idea of using only a carry on. Which to be honest is so not me. I am usually the type of packer that is prepared for all scenarios. However I tend to do this less on trips with lots of sight seeing and more on beach vacations. So this post is as much for me as it is for you, to improve what I pack this time around. Keeping in mind of course all the unnecessary things I packed the last time. This is what to pack for Europe in the Fall. 
What to pack for Europe in the Fall
- ICON Trench – A trench coat is a chic outer layer that can keep out the wind and rain. It looks just as good layered over a tee as it does over a cashmere sweater. If you are going later in the fall you might want to consider packing a wrap wool coat instead of a trench if you are expecting snow or crisp weather.
- Bow neck stripe shirt – I own this top it is one of my new favourites. Really it is just a stripe top, however the tie at the neck adds a special detail that gives a bit of polish while still being super comfortable. Fall can be a tricky time as you can still have warmer days and colder days. I would usually pack 5 long sleeve tops for a week to ten day trip.
- Toothpick jean – These jeans are my new favourite. Their high waist holds me in in all the right places. They look great with boots or with flats. I usually pack 3 pairs of jeans or trousers for a week to ten day trip.
- Chelsea Boot – I basically live in boots once it is too cold for sandals. These pointy toe chelsea boots are stylish and can handle pounding the pavement because of the low heel. I generally pack 2 or three pairs of shoes. Two that can handle walking and if I need a dressier shoe I pack that as well.
- Grey T-shirt – Because packing for fall means you could have some warmer days and some colder days I make sure to pack lots of t-shirts. I use them when I get blindsided with hot weather and to layer under sweaters on the cold ones. I personally love these tees in particular because they drape nicely and are soft. I pack 5 – 7 tees for a week to ten day trip.
- Cashmere Turtleneck – packing a sweater is a no brainer. I use one on the plane for sure but it also allows that trench you packed to be warm enough if the temperatures dip below 15 degrees. Or chilly mornings. One this this Canadian girl needs to remember is to pack a maximum of two thin knit sweaters only as it doesn’t get as cold in Europe as Canada especially in early fall. Chances are you can use your trench as a sweater and keep the bulky sweaters at home.
- Nylon outdoor jacket – I really hate the rain. I just feel like I should be heading inside when it starts! But when you are touring around a new city you might not have that option. Packing an umbrella can be bulky but this light jacket with a hood can keep you dry and takes up almost zero space in your bag. I generally prefer a jacket with a hood to an umbrella because my hair and face stay dryer. Don’t want to pack more than one jacket? Make sure that trench coat from number 1 has a hood!
- St. Anne Tote – A tote is a great way to lug all the stuff you want on the plane. Use a tote for your carry on and a convertible backpack as your personal item so that you have some flexibility when sightseeing.
- Floppy Wool Hat – One of the things I was so glad I packed was a wide brim hat. Instead of packing an umbrella I used this hat when it was cooler and lightly raining. It was perfect for keeping the rain off my face and looks chic as well. Taking a hat doesn’t have to take up much space either if you know how to pack a hat properly.
- Alphabounce running shoe – whenever I am going on a trip with plenty of walking involved I always pack a sneaker. Because when all else fails and your feet are sore a sneaker is comfortable and built for athleticism. If you are doing a bus tour where certain days are heavy walking days use your sneakers on those days.
- Thisbee check scarf – at the very least I pack a scarf for the plane. It doubles as a blanket or a pillow. A scarf can also pull together your outfit while touring. I wouldn’t pack more than one scarf (even if like me you feel like you will want to change up your look or you just really want an excuse to wear your new scarves). Pick one that is versatile and weather appropriate.
I think the biggest thing to take into account when planning what to pack for Europe in the Fall is how different autumn temperatures are where you live. I find that the temperatures are slightly warmer in Europe than where I live so I should pack lighter than what I think of as autumn. Keep that in mind when you are packing. Build in some flexibility and layers so that if the temperatures drop or warm up while you are away from home you can handle the temperature changes without some major shopping.
Remember to also pack your underwear and pjs and travel makeup bag. Use your carry-on wisely too.
What are you packing for Europe?