What to Pack for a Week in Europe with Kids—and What to Leave at Home
A European family vacation is an investment in memories that will last a lifetime. Whether you’re headed to Paris or Rome, London or Seville, you’re sure to have an incredible adventure. But packing for the trip can feel like a journey all its own, complete with nerves, sleeplessness, and what feels a lot like turbulence.
Between unpredictable weather (hello, heatwave!), long travel days, cobblestone streets, and the inevitable pangs of hunger or boredom, the key is to pack thoughtfully without bringing your entire house.
Here we share our hard-learned lessons on the versatile essentials that will help keep your luggage—and the trip—manageable.
Reduce. Reuse. Re-wear.
For a weeklong trip, resist the temptation to pack seven complete outfits for every child. Instead, identify clothing that can be mixed and matched and layered as temperatures change. Aim for about five or six everyday outfits, as well as pajamas, underwear, and socks.
If possible, select a hotel or Airbnb where you can do laundry. Not only will it keep your on-the-go needs minimal, but it’s also an act of self-care to return home with a suitcase full of clean clothes.
Comfortable clothing is especially important when sightseeing. Pack lightweight pants, shorts or skirts, T-shirts, and a sweatshirt or sweater. A lightweight jacket or raincoat is useful because European weather can be unpredictable. For cooler destinations, add a warmer layer that can be worn repeatedly.
Comfortable walking shoes are essential. Families may cover several miles a day exploring cities, so prioritize well-broken-in sneakers over fashionable but uncomfortable footwear. A second pair of shoes is useful in case the first gets wet but avoid packing too many pairs.
Have a fancy dinner or high tea planned? Think about what shoes might work for walking and a nicer establishment.
Be Weather Wise
Recent headlines are reminders that weather is getting less and less predictable. Nevertheless, check the forecast shortly before departure—and prepare for some surprises. A compact umbrella, rain jacket, hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen can all earn their place in your luggage depending on the destination and season. You can also call your hotel to see whether they have lending programs for umbrellas or other weather necessities.
If you’re visiting multiple countries, remember that the weather can vary significantly from one stop to the next. Layers are usually more practical than bulky single-purpose clothing.
Remember Your Travel Day Essentials
Parents and kids have different travel day needs, but they are all necessary.
Your carry-on or personal bag deserves special attention. Keep passports, travel documents, medications, wallets, phones, chargers, and other important items easily accessible.
Tip: Take photos of your key identification. Leave copies at home and in one of your suitcases should anything go wrong.
For children, pack a small travel bag with a few activities they can use independently. Books, coloring supplies, headphones, a tablet loaded with already-downloaded shows or movies, and a favorite small toy can make flights and train rides much easier. Don’t overload the bag or your expectations, but be as prepared as possible.
Snacks are another must-have. Pack familiar, non-messy options such as crackers, granola bars, dried fruit, or cereal. Having something your kids recognize can be especially helpful when everyone is tired or between meals. These are helpful beyond the plane, too, especially as you’re marching from one sight to another.
Bring Familiar Health and Hygiene Basics
Don’t empty your medicine cabinet into your carry-on, but do think about what you might need along the way. When you’re traveling internationally, you may not have access to the brands—or instructions—you and your family are used to. Consider bringing any regular medications, basic first-aid supplies, motion-sickness remedies your family normally uses, and kid-friendly pain or fever medicine. Keep medications in their original packaging and follow applicable travel rules.
A few hygiene extras are also worth packing: travel-size hand sanitizer or wipes, tissues, toothbrushes, toothpaste, and a small supply of toiletries. Wipes can be particularly useful with younger children, whether you're dealing with spilled food or a surprise mess.
Backpack Back-up and Other Logistically Considerations
A lightweight backpack can be more useful than an additional suitcase. Each day, carry water bottles, snacks, sunscreen, wipes, a light layer, and whatever else your family needs while sightseeing. As your vacation wraps, this can be converted to the bag for bringing home all your new souvenirs.
Trying to decide whether to bring your stroller? European cities can involve narrow sidewalks, stairs, cobblestones, and crowded public transportation. A compact, lightweight stroller may be easier to maneuver than a larger model. For older toddlers and preschoolers, a child carrier can also be useful in places where strollers are impractical. But don’t wait till Day 1 to practice kiddo wearing. This is something you need to train for.
Packing cubes can help keep everyone's clothing organized, particularly if you're changing hotels frequently. Give each family member a designated cube or section of the suitcase so that unpacking and repacking takes less time.
Channel Your Inner Coco Chanel and Leave Some Items Behind
One of the best packing strategies is knowing what not to bring. Many European hotels and vacation rentals provide basics such as hair dryers, towels, and toiletries. Check before packing duplicates.
You also probably don't need a different outfit for every possible occasion. Prioritize comfortable, versatile clothing and add in only what’s needed if you have any formal dinners or events on the itinerary. Remember that you'll likely have opportunities to buy necessities during the trip if something is forgotten.
Most importantly, leave a little extra room in your luggage. Kids—and parents—often come home with souvenirs, gifts, or a new favorite European snack.
The goal isn't to pack for every possible scenario. It's to bring enough to stay comfortable, prepared, and flexible. With versatile clothing, reliable walking shoes, a well-stocked carry-on, a few entertainment options, and basic health and hygiene supplies, you'll have what you need to enjoy a week of exploring Europe together…without hauling an oversized suitcase through every train station along the way.
