Edit: I started writing this in April. Obviously it’s not April anymore. I think this packing guide is good for Spring or Fall weather with temps between 40-80 degrees. Hopefully you have some great trips planned for the Fall and this can help you navigate packing and make life a little easier!

Packing is an art form. I was able to pack for a 5-week trip to Europe in a tiny, Ryan-Air approved carry on. Keep in mind, that was in June and July and I wasn’t packing jackets and jeans and generally thicker clothing. This time around, my mom is bringing a checked bag so I’m indulging myself in a slightly larger suitcase- although I think the below would be pretty close to fitting into that tiny bag. I went to Amsterdam, Prague, and Paris for 10 days and the temperatures fluctuated between 45-75 degrees. I planned for no rain and, luckily, there never was a massive downpour. It sprinkled a little in Paris but was walkable and didn’t require an emergency plastic poncho purchase. Also, I linked everything at the end of the post if you’re a visual person and want to jump there.

Outerwear

The biggest space hog in your luggage, depending on the weather. Definitely wear the heaviest on the plane to save room in your luggage and stay warm on the plane. Keep an eye on the weather before you leave. If rain is eminent, please bring a raincoat.

Teddy Coat

I snagged my teddy coat during Nordstrom Rack’s Clear the Rack for $20. I was debating bringing an APPARIS coat that I rented from RTR but it was heavyweight and I didn’t think it would be getting that cold on our trip (it didn’t).

Black Leather Jacket

A staple in anyone’s closet. Please, if you don’t have one do yourself a favor and go get one ASAP. They add a little edge to any outfit, will never go out of style, and are perfect for days with just a little chill in the air. I rented mine, a gorgeous KAUFMANFRANCO, from Rent The Runway.

Black Blazer

My Madewell blazer (unfortunately, not sold anymore) has served me well. My one complaint is that it’s a lighter black than a lot of my closet, but still, I love it. A black blazer instantly adds polish to your outfit and is a great layering piece.

Denim Jacket

The most casual jacket I packed but one of the easiest to wear. Throw it over a slip dress to make the outfit more casual or rock a Canadian tuxedo.

bottoms

Underrated and often overlooked. Yes, jeans are jeans but there are so many different cuts, washes, and variations. Find jeans that you fit you well and that you love and the rest of your outfit will come together so much more easily! Also, jeans aren’t your only bottom option- obviously. I’ve been a big fan of khaki/camel pants this year and high-waisted skirts of any color/pattern are my go-to.

Blue Jeans

I found a super classic cut from Banana Republic before the trip that I fell in love with. They’re basic but fit so well!

Black Jeans

I think I got my black jeans that I packed from Nordstrom Rack but honestly have no idea. They’re high-waisted, cropped, and have a slight flare. They take your basic black jean up a notch.

Khaki Pants

Neutral pants were a newfound love of mine in 2019. I previously associated the khaki pant with middle school band concerts- not a fond fashion memory- but in 2019 I learned to love them once again. As always, I opt for a high-waisted pair and love a wide leg as well- like these from Everlane.

Skirt(s)

Almost as great as dresses. I packed a leopard print skirt that I thrifted and a polka dot skirt from Free People.

tops

I honestly think that less is truly more when it comes to tops and packing. Bring basics that can be transformed with layering and accessories. Hint hint- that means you can wear them again and again in different ways.

Black Tee

There’s not much to say except that it’s an essential.

White Tee

Ditto.

Black Cami

My black cami, from the Who What Wear Collection, has the cutest lace detail. It adds visual interest and can be worn casually with jeans and sneakers or dresses up with a pleated skirt and heels.

Statement Blouse

Bring one or two. They’re great for warmer days when layering isn’t required and can make the outfit on their own.

dresses

I LOVE dresses. They make a great outfit so easy to put together and are flowy and pretty. Plus, add tights and throw on a jacket and you’re set for whatever weather comes your way.

Black Slip Dress

Such. A. Staple. Dress it up with a leather jacket and heels or wear it for a casual day with tennis shoes and a teddy jacket. Also, a Parisian necessity. Mine was $29 from ASOS.

Floral Dress(es)

I started my Rent The Runway unlimited membership in March and absolutely loved it. I rented two floral dresses but they’re both so different. I wore this ASTR the Label dress in Prague (pictured above) and this Tanya Taylor Inez dress in Amsterdam.

Maxi Dress

This dress (pictured in the first image) was on display at Banana Republic and it was love at first sight. It’s my favorite shade of pink and moves so beautifully.

accessories

Jewelry and most accessories take up (basically) no room in your suitcase, so bring options!

Long Pearl Earrings

I found the perfect pearl drop earrings at Saks Off 5th (no longer on their website) and am kicking myself for not buying a second pair just incase anything were to happen to them. My ears can’t handle heavy earrings and these are incredibly light weight but still pack an elegant, visual punch.

Gold Hoops

The perfect little earring in my opinion.

Brown Cross-Body

This purse has truly traveled the world with me. It’s the perfect size to hold all of your necessities while traveling and I always wear a cross-body for additional security.

Black Cross-body

Read above but in black. Just depending on what outfit I wear- I like to have options.

Wicker Bag

Okay, I threw a third purse in my suitcase. I collaborated with Rosedale Center and the cutest wicker circle purse at von Maur. I knew it would complete my Banana Republic dress outfit for Keukenhof.

Beret

French stereotype? Yes. Did I bring one (from Madewell) and buy another in Paris? Absolutely.

Bow Hair Tie

The bow hair tie was definitely the accessory of 2019. Functional and adorable, count me in!

Statement Tights/Socks

A super easy way to dress up and change an outfit. I brought mesh star socks and these adorable rhinestone-embellished fishnet tights from SHEIN that are $4!!!

Sunglasses

My weakness. I won’t say how many pairs I own. It’s a lot. Not only are they a necessity for sunny days, they are the cherry on top of any great outfit. I rented this Celine pair for the trip.

Shoes

The biggest space (and weight) hog in your entire suitcase, no matter what the weather! Really try to limit the number of shoes you pack to three. I know that it’ll be hard, but you really only want to pack shoes that will be incredibly comfortable for around 10 miles of walking a day.

Tennis Shoes

I’ve progressed from Stan Smith’s to Zara chunky sneakers to actual Orthotic sneakers and then on to these. I wanted the chunkiest Dad-approved sneakers I could find. These, the Nike M2k Tekno fit the bill AND you can walk for miles in them. I ended up wearing them nearly every day.

Black Boots

A staple in any closet. They can go with jeans, dresses, and anything in-between. Bring boots with a short or flat heel for ultimate walkability. Also, break them in before you go! I made the mistake of buying new boots and ultimately decided not to even bring them along.

Statement Heels

These Marion Parke heels are my new favorite statement piece- and they’re on sale now! The block heel lends itself to walking on cobblestone streets and the ostrich feathers are oh so of-the-moment and make the outfit.

Packing Guide