How to Pack for Study Abroad in Europe

So, you’ve done the research, found the perfect European study abroad program for you, gotten through the application process, and received your acceptance letter! You can’t wait to explore and learn and have the best experience! But…what the heck do you pack for study abroad in Europe?

Before you get anywhere near those French croissants, you need to pack your bags!

Packing can be stressful and overwhelming for sure. But if you’re wondering how to pack for study abroad in Europe, you’ve come to the right place! We’ve got all the tips and tricks to help you pack and have the time of your life.

6 things to consider when you pack for study abroad in Europe

• The seasons / time of year: Will you be studying in Europe for spring? Bring your best florals and lots of layers. If you’re going for a winter study abroad, you may want to consider some heavier jackets!
• The length of your trip: Things you need to study abroad in Europe will be different if you’re going for a crazy, whirlwind, two-week trip vs. an 18-month study abroad program. Know how long you’ll be there and pack accordingly!
• The typical climate: What’s the typical climate of your study abroad destination? Are you studying abroad in southern Italy where it’s pretty mild year round? Or will you be studying in the Czech Republic where snow abounds? Even knowing something as simple as when the rainy season occurs can really save your packing list!
• The cobblestone streets: Part of Europe’s charm is the gorgeous cobblestone streets everywhere. They’re great and beautiful!...and also really hard on shoes. If you’re wondering what to pack when studying abroad in Europe, sensible shoes for the cobblestone streets is the answer.
• The weekend trips: One of the best perks of studying abroad in Europe is the ability to take weekend trips to the TONS of great nearby destinations! If you’re planning for weekends away at the Mediterranean, for example, you’ll want to pack your swimsuit and sunhat.
• The local culture: Things to bring when studying abroad in Europe? Maybe not shorts and tank tops, depending on where you go and what the local culture is like. At the very least, you’ll be expected to cover-up in churches or places of worship. On the other hand, some places in Europe have a culture where you can wear shorts wherever! Just do your research ahead of time.

READ: Why Experiencing Culture Shock is a Good Thing for Young Adults

Your essential packing list for studying abroad in Europe

Unless you’re headed to the Mediterranean for summer, packing an umbrella is practically a given.

Let’s cover all the things you need to study abroad in Europe! These are the basics that’ll set you on the right track while packing for your study abroad adventure.

1. Clothes (duh)

This is the biggest (and hardest!) thing on anyone’s list, and the key for packing in Europe is to keep it simple. European style tends toward classic, timeless pieces, so simplicity is your friend. You might really love that neon purple camo shirt of yours, but it definitely won’t help you blend in in Europe!

Regardless of how long you are spending in Europe, you won’t be able to pack your full wardrobe. So, simple pieces can help maximize what you bring by doing double duty in multiple different outfits. For example, a plain white shirt can pair with black pants one day and then with a cute skirt the next! Read more on capsule wardrobes to get a better sense of what to pack.

TL;DR? Go simple and light, and remember that you can shop once you’re in Europe as well. In fact, shopping for new clothing pieces in your study abroad destination might be one of your favorite memories and leave you with lasting souvenirs that you’ll use often when you get home.

2. Prescriptions

Remember to bring any prescription medicines you take—and to double check that they’re allowed in your destination country. Some countries have different rules about prescription drugs (especially stimulants used to treat ADHD, etc.), so it never hurts to double check!

A good rule of thumb is to always bring a copy of the actual prescription your doctor wrote, just in case. If your study abroad program is long enough that you’ll need to get more, you can also use that prescription to show the European doctor what you take and how much, helping them to prescribe the European equivalent. Your program advisor should be able to help you coordinate this.

3. Toiletries

Use bubblewrap to keep your skincare products *extra* safe in your suitcase.

We all hate going without our favorite shampoo or moisturizer, so be sure to pack all your toiletries! We’re talking shampoo, conditioner, body wash, deodorant, tooth paste, skincare products, makeup, sunscreen, contact lens solution, and maybe even bug spray! Depending on how long you’ll be studying abroad, you can opt for the travel size of all of these.

If you’re planning on a longer stay, you should probably bring enough toiletries to get you through the first couple weeks of your trip, and then buy the European equivalent of your toiletries once you know your surroundings a bit more. Or, Google your favorite products to see if they’re available in your destination. Consider bringing sustainable travel products to save on expenses.

4. Electronics

Of course you’ll want to bring your phone and laptop if you have one! Electronics can also include e-readers like your Kindle or Nook (definitely recommended over bringing bulky books!). But, other than that, we recommend packing light and leaving the electronics at home.

This means hair styling electronics like hair dryers, straighteners, etc., that take up a TON of suitcase room and might not even work with European outlets. You’re better off buying a cheap version of what you need when you get there (if you really can’t live without it) and donating it before you come home.

5. Comfort Items

No matter who you are or where you’re going, chances are you’ll be thrown into new situations with any study abroad in Europe. This can be tons of fun and also get you outside your comfort zone! It’s one of the best things about studying abroad in Europe. And these new situations are made even better and easier by knowing you’ve got your favorite blanket (squishmallow, pair of shoes, color of nail polish, etc.) along for the ride.

We recommend bringing your top two or three comfort items; pick things that are small and packable like a meaningful piece of jewelry, instead of things like your favorite fragile, breakable coffee mug. Also, try to pack these things in your carry-on if you’re flying to minimize the risk of them getting lost.

6. Snacks from home

Think of a specialty food item from your hometown or state, whether it’s something the area is famous for or just something you really love. Or, think of packable, non-perishable items like candy, peanut butter, etc. Then put them in your suitcase! This comes in handy for conversation starters with new friends or host families. They will love that you brought something to share! And they might even trade you for a specialty food item of their own.

And, in case you find other ways to make friends, you can always keep your packed food item for yourself and eat it on the rare occasion that you feel homesick. Either way, the food gets eaten and you’ll be glad you packed it!

What not to wear in Europe

• Fanny packs / money belts: While fanny packs are making a comeback in America, the same isn’t true in Europe! Wearing a fanny pack or money belt of any kind will immediately mark you as a tourist. If you’re worried about pickpockets, there are tons of other options for keeping your money and documents safe.
• Athleisure: Athleisure wear, like leggings, workout shoes, and hoodies, is super common in the states. It’s comfy and easy to lounge around in! However, in Europe, it’s not as widely accepted. Europeans tend to dress up for everyday events such as work or dinner. So athleisure is uncommon in Europe. If you want to blend in, leave the workout leggings at home!
• Big white sneakers and/or flip flops: Big white sneakers can easily get dirty and are another clear marker of a tourist. Likewise, flip flops aren’t practical—your feet will be sore and maybe even dirty by the end of the day! For what to pack when studying abroad in Europe, it’s better to stick to darker-colored, less conspicuous shoes.
• (American) Branded clothing: Brands like Coach, Nike, Abercrombie, or even Old Navy will mark you as an American. On that note, try to avoid American sports logos / jerseys as well! If you’re really concerned about blending in, your European study abroad packing list should leave off any kind of American branded clothing.

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You’ll have all the things you need to study abroad in Europe!

Packing can be stressful, but we’ve given you the best tips and tricks to help out. Remember to do your research and modify all advice to your specific destination in Europe. Leave the big white sneakers and fanny packs at home, and you’ll be blending in in no time. So get out the suitcases and pack for your study abroad in Europe!

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