Your Euro Summer Packing Guide By A Seasoned Pro (And Serial Overpacker)
Pack light, dress right
By Bianca Licina | 27th May 2025If you’re off to the Mediterranean coast for a month of indulgence – sipping cocktails, hopping islands, lounging beachside – I kind of hate you. But also… same. That was me for a few years straight: boating, exploring, and gallivanting from one sun-drenched destination to the next.
My travels rarely strayed from the coastline and absolutely never dipped below 25°C. So if you’re heading to London or Copenhagen, you’re on your own. But if you’re sticking to turquoise waters, Aperols, and a high rotation of linen, this is for you.
Packing for a month-long Euro summer? Not easy. Especially when you feel like you need a fresh outfit for every. single. moment. But let me hold your hand when I say this—you don’t. Speaking as a full-time overpacker and part-time diva, I’ve finessed the art of packing light and right.
Here are my top nine tips to keep it cute, comfortable, and convenient.
1. Don’t overdo shoes
You will live in your Birkenstocks. Trust me. Between boats, cobblestones, and beach hikes (yes, they’re a thing), your dainty slides or Havianas won’t cut it. You need something sturdy, blister-proof, and walk-friendly. I didn’t pack mine last time… and had them shipped over mid-trip. Lesson learned.
Aside from your daytime go-to’s, bring a stylish sneaker for sightseeing and travel days – they’ll save your feet. At night? I rotated between black strappy sandals and leather thongs. From beach clubs to boujee bars, they worked every time. Heels? Only pack them if you’re a ride-or-die heel girl. I skipped them and didn’t regret it once.
2. Choose your bags wisely
You’ll be hauling your luggage more than you think, so start strong with a quality suitcase. I’m not a backpack-gal – give me a four-wheel hard case any day.
As for carry-ons: I swear by my July Everyday Tote, but if you’re walking to your accommodation or have long travel days, a backpack is just more practical. Whatever you do, leave the carry-on suitcase at home. It’s a nuisance, not a necessity.
Bring a foldable beach bag for long days out – something comfy and durable. For sightseeing, I loved having a spacious handbag that fit my camera, sunnies, water bottle, and whatever else I hoarded. And for evenings, your go-to shoulder bag is perfect. Two bags max.
3. Basics will save you
Basics are the bones of your wardrobe. Must bring: black and white tanks, a classic white tee, denim shorts, linen pants, a button-up shirt, and a black mini skirt. These staples are your outfit anchors. Make sure they fit well and feel good because they’ll be on high rotation. Where to find them? Our top picks are St. Agni, Assembly Label, Venroy, and COS.
4. Rule: There’s no such thing as too many bikinis
Hi, I’m Bianca and I’m addicted to buying bikinis. But honestly, they’re small, light, and instantly switch up a look. If you’re swimming every day – and you will be – you’ll appreciate the variety. Our fave brands to shop are Bamba Swim, Triangl, Monday Swim, and Loleia.
5. Cover-ups that do the most
A Euro summer is your chance to wear those sheer pieces and fun beach club looks you’d never wear at home. Bring four to five standout pieces: floaty dresses, breezy maxis, or matching sets that take you from beach to bar. Think effortless, but a little extra.
6. Pack in pieces, not outfits
Planning head-to-toe looks for every day sounds nice… until you’re living out of a messy suitcase and don’t care. The truth? Everything looks good when you’re tanned, relaxed, and basking in Mediterranean glow. So pack in mix-and-match pieces, not full fits. And don’t forget – if you’re travelling with the girls, you’ve basically got a shared wardrobe on hand.
7. Leave room, but don’t rely on shopping
Yes, Europe has shopping. But if you’re sticking to small towns and coastlines, it’s not always a goldmine. Don’t bank on finding that perfect dress there – bring it with you. And leave a little space in your suitcase for unexpected gems.
8. If you don’t adore it, don’t pack it
That dress you’re not totally sure about? The skirt that kind of rides up weird? Leave them. If you don’t love it now, you won’t touch it in Europe. It’ll just get lugged from coast to coast, stuffed in your suitcase, and make you wish you brought something better.
9. Shop for you, not just the trip
I did my fair share of “Euro summer shopping” and wore those pieces to death. But here’s the thing: shop with longevity in mind. Choose pieces you’ll want to wear again once you’re back in the Aussie summer, not just things that scream vacation mode. Look for timeless styles in breathable fabrics that’ll work just as well at Burleigh as they do in Bodrum. Hot tip: hit up Depop for your fave labels like Venroy, Assembly Label, Bec + Bridge and more – there are so many gems at way better prices.
Imagery: @violetgrace_ / @summerfridays / @valentina_muntoni
