Planning a 10-day trip to Europe is exhilarating. The art, the history, the food—oh, the food! But the thought of packing for such an adventure in just a carry-on suitcase? That can be downright daunting, especially if, like me, you want options! But thankfully, you can teach an old dog new tricks. If I could slim down my 75-pound brimming suitcase to a cute little carry-on, you can, too.
I’ve got you covered with this How to Pack for 10 Days in Europe in a Carry-On Suitcase guide that will not only make your packing efficient but also keep you stylish, comfortable, and proud of yourself for your savvy packing skills. So, whether you’re exploring the romantic streets of Paris, indulging in gelato in Rome, or floating down the Danube, this guide is tailored for everyone who wants to travel light without sacrificing style and comfort. Let’s dive into the essentials and get that carry-on suitcase packed like a pro.
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The Right Carry-On
First things first: you need the perfect suitcase. You need it to be your trusty sidekick on your European adventure, so pick a good one! A lightweight, durable carry-on with plenty of compartments will be your best friend if you’re wanting to pack for 10 days in Europe in a carry-on. Look for one with 360-degree spinner wheels to glide effortlessly over those charming but bumpy cobblestone streets.
Consider the size restrictions of the airlines you’ll be flying with, as they can vary. Generally, a 21-22-inch carry-on is a safe bet for most European airlines, but check the chart below for more specific airline guidelines.
Overall, your carry-on should be spacious enough to fit everything yet compact enough to fit in overhead bins and maneuver through crowded train stations. You can opt for a suitcase with a hard shell if you prefer extra protection from weather and potentially rough handling or go with a soft-side suitcase if you want more flexibility.
When choosing your carry-on, DO NOT skimp on quality. A well-made suitcase can last for years and countless trips. Brands like Samsonite and Travelpro offer reliable options that strike a balance between functionality, quality, and style.
If you’re on a tight budget and need luggage, my favorite place to shop is Ross or Marshalls. We’ve found Samsonite luggage for nearly half the price of online prices.
But if you don’t have time to shop in stores, check out the following list of my top carry-on luggage choices that will accommodate most European airline size requirements:
HARD-SIDE LUGGAGE
Samsonite Winfield 2 Hardside Luggage
- Shop Here: Samsonite Winfield 2 Hardside Luggage
- Description: Lightweight and durable, featuring a 100% polycarbonate exterior with sharp molded details.
- Features:
- Full-zip interior divider
- Cross-straps
- TSA-approved combination lock
- Dimensions: 21.7 x 15.7 x 7.9 inches (fits most European airline requirements)
Delsey Paris Helium Aero Hardside Luggage
- Shop Here: Delsey Paris Helium Aero Hardside Luggage
- Description: Stylish and durable polycarbonate shell with a sleek glossy finish.
- Features:
- Double spinner wheels for superior maneuverability
- Recessed TSA-approved lock
- Two large fully lined compartments
- Dimensions: 21.7 x 13.8 x 9.8 inches (fits most European airline requirements)
Amazon Basics Expandable Hardside Carry-On Luggage
- Shop Here: Amazon Basics Expandable Hardside Carry-On
- Description: Ultra-lightweight and durable, perfect for frequent travelers
- Features:
- Scratch-resistant surface
- 360-degree spinner wheels
- Expandable for additional packing capacity
- Dimensions: 20.7 x 14.9 x 10 inches (fits most European airline requirements)
SOFT-SIDE LUGGAGE
Swissgear 4010 Softside Carry-On Luggage
- Shop Here: Swissgear 4010 Softside
- Description: Lightweight, expandable, and practical.
- Features:
- Smooth-rolling 360-degree spinner wheels
- Multi-position adjustable and locking handle
- Multiple pockets for organization
- Dimensions: 21.5 x 15 x 9 inches (fits most European airline requirements)
Bagsmart Carry-On Softside Luggage
- Shop Here: Bagsmart Carry-On Softside Luggage
- Description: Affordable, expandable, sleek, and lightweight spinner bag, with matching duffle bag.
- Features:
- Stylish design
- Multiple storage pockets for organization
- Easy-to-roll wheels
- Dimensions: 21.25 x 13.38 x 10.62 inches (fits most European airline requirements)
Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Carry-On Spinner
- Shop Here: Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Carry-On Spinner
- Description: Ultra-lightweight and durable, perfect for frequent travelers.
- Features:
- High-performance ball-bearing wheels
- Contour grip handle
- Expandable for additional packing capacity
- Dimensions: 21.75 x 15.75 x 7.75 inches (fits most European airline requirements)
These options provide a variety of high-quality, reliable choices for carry-on luggage that meet most European airline size requirements.
Maximize Space with the Right Personal Item
In addition to your main suitcase, a personal item is key to packing light. Even if you don’t need the extra space on the way over, you might want some extra room for those European souvenirs you’re bringing back.
When I traveled to Europe my personal item bag was necessary for holding my travel documents, electronics, a change or two of clothes, toiletries, and anything else I needed to access quickly. Most airlines have a size limit of 18x14x8 inches and require that they fit under the seat in front of you.
These personal item backpacks with multiple pockets can help keep you organized and distribute weight evenly, making it easier on your shoulders and back during long travel days. You can also opt for a personal item duffel bag or rolling bag that will fit under the seat in front of you.
With the right carry-on and personal item combo, you’ll be set for a smooth, stylish, and efficient European adventure. Now, let’s get to the fun part—what to pack inside!
The Essential Packing List for 10 Days in Europe in a Carry-On
Now that you’ve got the perfect carry-on bag, it’s time to get down to the nitty-gritty—what to pack. Here’s a comprehensive packing list designed to keep you stylish, comfortable, and prepared for any adventure Europe throws your way.
Clothing
- Tops (5)
- 3 versatile blouses that can be dressed up or down
- 2 casual tees, tanks, or long sleeve tops for comfortable sightseeing
- Bottoms (4)
- 1 pair of jeans (your trusty go-to)
- 1 pair of versatile pants (think chic yet comfy, like joggers or leggings)
- 1 skirt or pair of shorts (depending on the season)
- Dresses (2)
- 1 casual dress for daytime adventures
- 1 slightly dressier option for those nights out
- Outerwear (3)
- 1 lightweight cardigan or button-down shirt
- 1 sweater or sweatshirt
- 1 jacket or coat ( if needed, preferably water-resistant)
- Undergarments
- 10 pairs of underwear (trust me, you don’t want to skimp here)
- 3 bras (including one that’s versatile for different outfits)
- Socks (enough for your shoes of choice)
- Sleepwear
- 2 sets of pajamas
- Shoes (2 pairs)
- 1 pair of comfortable walking shoes
- 1 pair of sandals, flip-flops, or flats
- Accessories
- Hat (depending upon the season)
- Minimal jewelry (think versatile pieces)
- Sunglasses
Toiletries
Remember, liquids need to be travel-sized. Here’s a compact list:
- Travel-sized shampoo and conditioner
- Body wash or soap
- Toothbrush and travel-sized toothpaste
- Skincare essentials (cleanser, moisturizer, sunscreen)
- Cosmetic basics (foundation, mascara, lip balm)
- Hairbrush and hair ties
- Razor
- Deodorant
- Feminine products
Miscellaneous
- Travel documents (passport, tickets, itinerary)
- Phone and charger
- Portable power bank
- Travel-sized laundry detergent (for quick washes)
- Snacks (because hangry is a real thing)
- Reusable tote bag (for shopping)
- Collapsible water bottle
- Medication
- Neck pillow for the plane
- Travel umbrella or poncho
This packing list covers all your bases, ensuring you have everything you need for a comfortable and stylish 10-day trip. Just remember to keep it simple, stick to the essentials, and wash as you go.
How to Pack for 10 Days in Europe in a Carry-On: Packing Tips and Tricks
Packing for a 10-day European adventure in just a carry-on might sound like an impossible feat, but with a few clever strategies, you can make it happen. Here are my tried-and-true packing tips and tricks to maximize your suitcase space and keep your belongings organized.
Roll, Don’t Fold
Rolling your clothes instead of folding them is a game-changer. Not only does it save space, but it also helps minimize wrinkles. Start with your bulkier items and roll them tightly to fit more into your suitcase.
Use Packing Cubes
Compression packing cubes are a traveler’s best friend. These handy organizers compartmentalize your suitcase, making it easier to find what you need without unpacking everything. They also help compress your clothes, so you can fit more into your carry-on. Assign different cubes for tops, bottoms, undergarments, and accessories to keep everything neat and accessible.
Wear Your Bulkiest Items
To save space in your carry-on, wear your bulky items on the plane. This includes your heaviest shoes, jacket, and any layers you might need. Not only does this free up space, but it also keeps you cozy during the flight.
Utilize Every Inch
Maximize every nook and cranny of your suitcase. Stuff socks, underwear, and small accessories into your shoes to utilize the space efficiently. Place heavier items at the bottom of your suitcase, near the wheels, to maintain balance and make it easier to maneuver.
Go Digital
Ditch the physical guidebooks and maps and opt for digital versions on your phone or tablet. This not only saves space but also keeps you from lugging around extra weight. Download travel apps and store digital copies of your travel documents for easy access.
Layer Strategically
Layering is key to packing light. Choose versatile pieces that can be layered to create a capsule wardrobe. A lightweight cardigan can be worn over a tee, a dress, or under a jacket, giving you multiple looks with just a few items.
Minimize Toiletries
Stick to the essentials when it comes to toiletries. Travel-sized containers are a must, and multi-use products can save even more space. Consider a tinted moisturizer with SPF or a lip balm that doubles as a cheek tint. Bring a small bottle of Dr. Bronner’s soap, that can double as body soap, shampoo, and laundry detergent!
And if it’s easily available and affordable at your location (or free at your hotel), wait and get it there. It’s fun to try new products and you can save a lot of space in your bag.
Plan for Laundry
Doing a little laundry on your trip can significantly reduce the amount of clothing you need to pack. Bring a small packet of travel detergent or Dr. Bronner’s liquid castille soap to wash clothes in your hotel room. Lightweight, quick-drying fabrics are ideal for travel as they can be washed and dried overnight. I’ve even had to wash dirty jeans in the hotel sink and they only took a day to dry.
If you’re traveling with your family, plan to wash a load of laundry. Most hotels and Airbnbs have access to laundry service.
Stay Organized with a Packing List
Keep a detailed packing list to ensure you don’t forget any essentials and to avoid overpacking. Check off items as you pack them and make adjustments based on your itinerary and weather forecasts.
By incorporating these packing tips and tricks, you’ll be able to fit everything you need for a 10-day European adventure into your carry-on. Happy packing!
Capsule Wardrobe Magic
Creating a capsule wardrobe is the key to packing light while staying stylish. By carefully selecting versatile pieces that can be mixed and matched, you can create numerous outfits from just a few items. Here’s how to build a capsule wardrobe for your European adventure.
Choose a Color Palette
Start by selecting a color palette for your wardrobe. Stick to neutral colors like black, white, gray, and navy, with a few pops of color to keep things interesting. This will ensure that all your pieces can be easily mixed and matched.
The Core Pieces
Here are the essential items you’ll need for your capsule wardrobe:
- Tops (5)
- 3 versatile blouses
- 2 casual tees or tanks
- Bottoms (3)
- 1 pair of jeans
- 1 pair of versatile pants (like joggers or leggings)
- 1 skirt or pair of shorts
- Dresses (2)
- 1 casual dress
- 1 dressier option
- Outerwear (3)
- 1 lightweight cardigan or button-down shirt
- 1 sweater or sweatshirt
- 1 jacket or coat (if needed, preferably water-resistant)
- Shoes (2 pairs)
- 1 pair of comfortable walking shoes or sneakers
- 1 pair of versatile flats or sandals
Accessorize Smartly
Accessories can transform an outfit, so choose wisely. Some minimal jewelry and a stylish pair of sunglasses can add flair without taking up much space. Stick to pieces that are versatile and can be worn with multiple outfits.
Outfit Ideas
Here are a few outfit ideas to illustrate how versatile your capsule wardrobe can be:
- Sightseeing in Style
- Casual tee, jeans, and walking shoes
- Add earrings and sunglasses for flair
- Café Hopping
- Versatile blouse, skirt, and flats or sandals
- Lightweight cardigan for cooler indoor spaces
- Museum Day
- Casual dress and flats or sandals
- Light jacket in your bag for cooler evenings
- Hiking Adventure
- Casual tee, versatile pants, and walking shoes or sneakers
- Sweater or sweatshirt for layering if it gets chilly
- Dinner Out
- Dressier dress and flats
- Light jacket for the evening chill
Mix and Match
The beauty of a capsule wardrobe is its flexibility. Each piece should work with at least three different outfits. This approach not only saves space but also makes it easy to dress appropriately for a variety of activities and weather conditions.
Plan for Layers with Outerwear
Europe’s weather can be unpredictable, so layering is essential. A lightweight cardigan can be worn over a tee or under a jacket, giving you multiple options for staying comfortable in different climates.
By following these guidelines, you’ll have a capsule wardrobe that’s stylish, versatile, and perfectly suited for your 10-day European adventure. This approach ensures you’re always prepared, no matter where your travels take you.
Beauty on the Go
When it comes to beauty routines on the go, less is more. You want to look and feel your best without lugging around your entire bathroom cabinet. Here are some tips for maintaining your beauty regimen while traveling light.
Multi-Use Products
Opt for multi-use products to save space and simplify your routine. Here are a few essentials:
- Tinted Moisturizer with SPF: Combines foundation, moisturizer, and sunscreen in one.
- Lip and Cheek Tint: A versatile product that adds color to both lips and cheeks.
- Castille Soap: One travel-size bottle of liquid castille soap works as a body wash, shampoo, and laundry detergent.
Travel-Sized Essentials
Stick to travel-sized versions of your must-have products. You can either buy travel-sized items or transfer your favorites into small reusable containers. Essential travel-sized toiletries include:
- Shampoo and conditioner
- Body wash or soap
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Skincare essentials (cleanser, moisturizer, sunscreen)
- Deodorant
- Shaving Cream
If you’re able to purchase some of these items at your location or have them provided for free at your accommodation, that would be even better! The more space you can save, the better.
Simplify Your Makeup Routine
Choose a few key makeup items that enhance your natural beauty and are quick to apply. These are my go-to items that I can fit in a small make-up bag:
- Moisturizer
- Concealer
- Contour palette that I use for contour, bronzer, blush, and eye shadow
- Mascara
- Lip balm or lipstick
- Brow pencil or gel
- Make-up brush for blending
Hair Care
Bring a compact hairbrush and a few hair ties or clips. Consider a mini flat iron or curling wand if you need to style your hair. Embrace simple hairstyles like braids, buns, and ponytails that are easy to manage on the go.
By streamlining your beauty routine with these essentials, you can look and feel fabulous without overpacking.
Staying Fresh
Keeping your clothes fresh and clean during a 10-day trip is crucial, especially when you’re limited to a carry-on. Here are some practical tips for staying fresh on the go.
Pack Light, Wash Often
Plan to do a little laundry during your trip. This allows you to pack fewer clothes and keep everything fresh. Bring a small packet of travel detergent and a sink stopper to wash clothes in your hotel room. Many hotels also offer laundry services if you prefer.
Quick-Drying Fabrics
Choose clothing made from quick-drying fabrics like polyester, linen, and nylon. These materials dry faster than cotton, making it easier to wash and wear them again quickly.
Odor Control
Pack a small spray bottle of fabric refresher to eliminate odors and help release wrinkles. This can help keep your clothes smelling and looking fresh between washes. You can also use dryer sheets in your suitcase to keep everything smelling nice.
Freshen Up Kits
Create a small kit with travel-sized hygiene products to keep yourself feeling fresh throughout the day. Include items like:
- Wet wipes
- Hand sanitizer
- Breath mints or gum
- Mini deodorant
- Face wipes
- Feminine products
By incorporating these tips, you can stay fresh and comfortable throughout your trip without overpacking.
Final Tips and Reminders
As you prepare for your European adventure, here are a few final tips and reminders to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip.
Check the Weather
Always check the weather forecast for your destinations before you pack. This will help you choose the right clothing and accessories to stay comfortable and prepared for any conditions.
Travel Insurance
Consider getting travel insurance for peace of mind. It can cover unexpected events like flight cancellations, lost luggage, or medical emergencies. It’s a small investment that can save you a lot of hassle and expense. This Rick Steve’s Guide can help you decide if travel insurance is right for you.
Stay Flexible
Flexibility is the biggest key to a smooth trip. Be prepared to adapt your plans if necessary. Whether it’s a sudden change in the weather or a spontaneous opportunity for adventure, staying flexible your entire trip will help you make the most of your travels.
Keep Important Items Handy
Always keep your travel documents, wallet, phone, and any other important items in a secure and easily accessible place when out and about. A small crossbody bag, fanny pack, or money belt can be a great way to keep these essentials close and safe.
Enjoy the Journey
Remember, this trip is about creating memories and having fun. Don’t stress too much about packing. As long as you have the essentials, you’ll be ready for whatever comes your way.
Wrapping Up: How to Pack for 10 Days in Europe in a Carry-On Suitcase
Packing for a 10-day trip to Europe in a carry-on is totally doable with the right approach. By planning your wardrobe strategically, using space-saving techniques, and keeping your essentials in check, you’ll be ready to embark on your adventure without the burden of heavy luggage and two weeks’ worth of clothing. Embrace the freedom of traveling light, and focus on the incredible experiences and memories you’ll create along the way. Bon voyage!
