On the spur of the moment, we decided to escape the sweltering heat of Dallas and embarked on a spontaneous 30-day adventure through Europe. With summer temperatures soaring, the thought of cooler climates and exploring new destinations was too tempting to resist. In just a few days, we packed our bags, booked our flights, and set off on a journey that would take us through charming cities, stunning landscapes, and a 15-day cruise—all in pursuit of a refreshing break from the Texas heat.
Embarking on a European trip is an adventure, but turning that adventure into a seamless experience requires planning, preparation, and a touch of style. Whether hopping between iconic landmarks or discovering hidden gems, mastering European travel means packing wisely! In this guide, we’ll explore how to make the most of a 30-day European trip while staying effortlessly chic and organized.
Choose the Right Luggage
When it comes to mastering European travel, strategic packing is a must. Especially when traveling between two completely different climates! For the first leg of our journey, we spent five days in Scotland and Ireland, and I carefully packed everything I needed into my Louis Vuitton carry-on. This way, I could easily access my essentials without the hassle of digging through my larger, bulkier luggage in smaller accommodations. This smart move kept me organized and ready for the cooler, unpredictable weather without any extra stress.
I added a personal touch with bold, colorful stickers to my husband’s, and my own Rimowa luggage to stand out in the sea of similar bags on the carousel. This simple hack adds a bit of personality to our travel gear and allows us to spot our suitcases in seconds! Whether a bright graphic or a fun design, these stickers ensure I never mistake my luggage for someone else’s, saving time and stress after a long flight.
For extra ease, this luggage harness has been a great addition to our Rimowa Cabin Plus. It stores all of our laptops, iPads, phones, and extras. Just tuck it under the seat in front of you for easy access to all your essentials!
Pack Practical Must-Haves
Incorporating small yet practical items into my daily routine has made a world of difference during my travels. For instance, my trusty toothbrush by Suri keeps me feeling fresh no matter where I am and can stay charged for over 30 days. This stylish chain for my sunglasses has been a lifesaver and ensures they’re always within reach and hanging securely around my neck. My Lululemon crossbody bag and a handbag fit easily inside my larger Louis Vuitton tote, which also folds down flat. (Note: It’s a good idea to try and keep designer logos down to a minimum while traveling) Also, this lightweight foldable backpack has come in handy for those great outdoor adventures. These little conveniences may seem minor, but they add up to a smoother, more enjoyable journey.
Curate Outfits While Packing
The key to looking fashionable while staying comfortably appropriate lies in color coordination. Before my trip, I set aside everything I thought might work and then took the time to carefully curate each outfit for every occasion. By focusing on a cohesive color palette, I was able to mix and match pieces easily, ensuring that I looked stylish no matter the event or weather. This thoughtful approach not only made packing more efficient but also helped me feel confident and well-prepared throughout my travels.
For the cooler climate, I opted for a navy, white, and a pop of orange color palette. This combination not only kept me looking chic in the brisk weather but also transitioned seamlessly into the hotter climates later in my trip. The versatility of these colors allowed me to mix and match effortlessly, ensuring I stayed stylish and comfortable across varying temperatures.
A lightweight jacket was essential in the brisk weather so I purchased a Burberry utility jacket from The Real Real. It folded easily, it was in immaculate condition and was priced perfectly.
Be Strategic with Shoes and Cosmetics
Shoes and cosmetics are always the bulkiest items to pack, so it’s crucial to be strategic. For a long trip, wearing your heaviest shoes on the plane makes sense to save space in your luggage. I chose a wonderful pair of Ron white shoes that were chic enough to wear with any outfit, even dresses. But of course, I also had to pack a dressy pair for more formal attire as well. I also prioritize comfort by choosing loose-fitting clothes for the flight.
This is where a larger tote comes in. You need to keep everything handy without having to get up into the overhead compartment. (Don’t forget to pack comfortable socks!) This approach not only lightens my suitcase but also ensures I stay comfortable during long hours of travel. Balancing practicality with style is key to a smooth and enjoyable journey.
Spur-of-the-moment travel doesn’t just satisfy your craving for adventure—it can also be a smart move for your budget. When you’re flexible and ready to go at the drop of a hat, you can take advantage of last-minute deals that often pop up. Airlines, hotels, and even cruise lines sometimes offer significant discounts to fill remaining spots, allowing you to enjoy luxury experiences at a fraction of the cost. Our recent 30-day trip to Europe is a perfect example of how seizing the moment can lead to unexpected savings and unforgettable experiences. Follow these tips for mastering European travel and let us know if you give them a try. Happy travels!
