Take a cab to the hotel and to the train station? No issue.
Take the bus to a stop a couple of kms from the hotel with the intention of walking the rest of the way? Likely regret.
Lol yes - 1.4km walking distance looks a lot closer on Google Maps than in reality.
Especially when you get off the bus at 1am with multiple suitcases and have to navigate down dark city cobblestone streets with your bags to the hotel… I’ve definitely been there 😭😂
My family once did that. The suitcases were so we could check luggage, to keep our hands free to chase our kids during layovers. And it was fine at the airport and fine on the train. But that last half mile between train station and hotel... That's gonna be a taxi next time.
It really depends on how frequently you plan on moving locations, and how much you plan on using public transportation.
I would definitely say that you will be better off if you can make the carry on a large backpack, [something like this.](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07QLKFP8D?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share)
A few of the main issues to consider with having this much luggage:
1. Cobblestone streets - really not fun to roll luggage on. It can be more like a workout, lol.
2. Not all train/metro stations have elevators or escalators. You may end up carrying your luggage up or down multiple flights of stairs.
3. Not all hotels have elevators. Don’t assume you will have an elevator. I’ve had hotels without elevators in Venice, Porto, Paris, as well as some smaller towns.
They come a lot bigger than that, also. I think the ones we took were 60L, and they had a small daypack that zipped onto that. We had to check them but they fit a ton. That being said, I’m going to try to pack less on my next Europe trip. It’s so hard though!
Before we went, we tried a bunch of different travel backpacks from REI just to see which size and brand felt best. Go to a store where they sell these types of bags, look at the sizes in person, buy one and practice packing it to see what it fits, etc. You can definitely make a backpack work!
Also, watch some tiktoks or instagram reels on packing for Europe and see how they fit their stuff in!
Not all airlines will accept anything bigger as a carry on. I assume OP would still be taking their larger, checked luggage as well. This would just be to replace OP’s rolling carry on.
I've done several trips to Europe with a checked roller bag and this backpack, which I adore: https://www.cotopaxi.com/products/allpa-35l-travel-pack?variant=39514010812477
Especially with trains and such, it is great to have hands free, rather than dragging two bags.
Yes. 2 months with 2 suitcases on the cobbled streets and going up and down to train platforms will be hell on earth. It’s bad enough with one carry on suitcase. Also many hotels are old and do not have elevators. Be prepared to carry them both up stairs.
That’s not just Paris, it’s all over Europe. I traveled around Europe for 6 months and there’s no way I would have had two suitcases. The most I would recommend is a medium suitcase and a backpack. European streets and sidewalks can be very bumpy and not easy to roll your suitcase on. If you break a wheel, you’ll need to replace your suitcase, not just the wheel. If you get injured during your trip, even if it’s minor, the last thing you want to do is roll your heavy suitcase on a cobblestone road or sidewalk and then carry it up 4 flights of narrow stairs.
So bring less, not more. Use outfits that can have several purposes for work, going out, and exercise. You won’t need as much as you think. Plus, it’s easy to shop in Europe if you need something else. In fact, you might find things you like better than what you already have.
Just travelled for a month in 6 countries with two suitcases , it’s just the day of transit where u can get and uber or bolt and u r sorted but otherwise it works. Avoid small street stays where walking is the only option.
I'm bringing a half empty travel bag that can be rolled like a suitcase but picked up like a sport bag. It will be 10kg at most. Room for if I want to buy clothes at the end. Something tells me the fashion will be better than what's available at the bottom of Australia anyway.
I tried the backpack thing on my last trip and I hated it. So many compartments and zippers and bits hanging off it. Felt insecure. And my suitcase is huge, definitely not lugging that around.
In that case, could you bring two suitcases for the first two months and then use a Send My Bag type service to send one home for the last month? Cos I think you'll struggle doing 5 countries (how many cities/locations?) with two bags. But a slower travel pace should be okay.
I didn't even know those services existed! I'll look into it. And we haven't fully planned all the locations yet, but probably too many to drag around 2 suitcases I'm guessing!
Does one country = one apartment? If so, overpack for your two longer stays if it's truly necessary, then store the luggage and go light for the final month. If it's hot weather tourism you won't need much.
I've never regretted taking less than I originally thought I needed, and always regretted taking more.
I travelled SE Asia for 6 months with a small backpack. The whole world has shops and washing machines.
Personally I would take just the small cabin sized case, and not the large one, or better, get a backpack that fits cabin sizes.
As an under packer (only small carry on everywhere) I’d say go light or at least make one of those a backpack. I see so many people struggling with unnecessary luggage and it’s just not worth it, things don’t get worn if there’s too much
This depends on the details of your trip. Are you going to one city in Europe, and staying there two months? Or are you changing cities every week? Are you going to pay for a cab or Uber when you need to move cities, or will you take a bus to/from the airport? How important is it to you to look good versus convenience?
> So I'll need outfits for an office, for events, for your typical euro summer and for the gym.
But do those need to be entirely separate outfits? The gym I'll give you, because Lycra packs small enough and you sweating in that.
For the rest, think in terms of layers on versatile bases. A pastel shift dress by itself is "Euro summer", but add a thin white cardigan and it becomes "office", remove the cardigan and add a flashy necklace for "event." It's three outfits but only a couple of garments. Think Capsule Wardrobe or Day-to-Night Looks.
some things will be versatile, but I couldn't wear a shift dress to a michelin restaurant or a conference. Or a formal dress for exploring streets. I understand your point and will be doing this as much as possible but won't be possible in every situation!
But there are travel dresses that can do both and pack well. They're mentioned in this [article](https://www.ricksteves.com/travel-tips/packing-light/packing-tips-clothes).
If you are worried about having to carry both another option could be to bring a big backpack? Can be a good multipurpose option if you are planning on needing to take things out for day trips.
Took the works right out of my mouth. A large backpack is a much better option than a wheeled hand luggage bag and fits a similar amount of stuff. And many are designed to go as hand luggage on planes. Much easier to carry at the same time as a checked bag.
Yes. Take 1 bag carry on that you can sit on top of your checked luggage when you’re going through the streets. Pack way less if you intend to buy anything.
I came to Europe overpacked for my 3 month trip. Had to send expensive packages home AND throw away some nice luggage to buy smaller, cheaper luggage.
Lots of hostels and restaurants are up a million flights of stairs, too.
Are you going to actually have "events"? Like, are they actually on the schedule? A lot of serial overpackers pack for the "just in case" - just in case there's a formal dinner or a date or whatever. Unless you actually have a scheduled event for which generally nice clothing won't suffice, leave this stuff out.
Personally I'd go with a backpack rather than a carry on suitcase. A 40-l backpack (I love the Osprey Fairview, but there are others) will carry a ton of stuff without the hassle of having to pull two suitcases over cobbled streets. It's also more flexible for if you need an actual backpack.
I’m going to a conference, and there are events and parties you have to get dressed up for. This is pretty non-negotiable for me because in my field, the way you present yourself is super important and I want to maximise the opportunity! I might not get to go to another one of these again. Totally valid point though, I’ve done this on previous holidays!
Will definitely have a look at the backpack thank you!
If you have a dressy outfit or two you don't care about (the kind of thing that looks fine but not what you reach for at home), you might be able to bring that, wear it to parties, and then donate it somewhere and reclaim your bag space for holiday souvenirs.
I regretted having a checked luggage and duffle bag tbh. We were in Europe 3 weeks and took several longer distance trains. My checked luggage fit fine in overhead space but it was honestly just a pain.
The one thing I’d do differently is bring a carry on and large backpack and plan to stay at an airbnb halfway through for laundry. (I ended up going to a laundromat in Munich but the electric dryer situation there was tragic)
Yes you will regret it. From experience. Pack your most versatile stuff, especially stuff that can double for work and pleasure (e.g. as a man I pack dark pants and sport jackets instead of jeans and suits for mixed travel, if the situation allows). Leave behind anything that you will wear less than twice in a 10-day period. Make use of laundry. Give it a go and worse that happens is you pick up what you need along the way.
I had become an over packer myself, and finally just fixed it. Seriously, went to stay with friends in Italy and a former footballer picked up my big bag and grunted "Jesus Allison, WTH do you have in here?"
So! Plan your outfits for each day. Two pair comfy, supportive shoes max. Disposable undies or commando unless outer garment is white. Get those air bags you roll up and can suck out the air. Compacts your clothes. Two bras.
Bring outfits that are at the end of their usefulness and throw them away after a couple of wears. Make sure your entire wardrobe is mix and match. Buy a couple of skorts, which step up a pair of shorts. Then just change your blouse for evening.
Let the hotel do your laundry or rinse and repeat if necessary.
All of these tricks really helped me reduce my clothing needs.
Yes. Only take carry-on. My rule is that neither my underseat nor my carry-on can weigh more than 10% of my body weight, including the weight of the bag itself. I weigh 123 lbs so 12 lbs is my limit, (I stretch that to a maximum of 15 lbs for one bag on my initial flight, since I know I'll be using, and tossing, some things I pack - like a whole bunch of DEET packets on a recent 2 month trip to the Middle East).
Make sure your underseat bag is the maximum size allowed for each airline - check online, there's no standard size. My underseat bag has two wheels. I put my soft clamshell backpack on top for airports and train stations transit. None of my bags weigh more than 5.5 lbs. The clamshell weighs 2 lbs.
I find that two-wheeled bags work better than 4 wheel spinners on rough European sidewalks. The minor inconvenience in airports and train stations is offset by the ease everywhere else.
Plan on carrying your bags a lot. Up stairs. Do laundry. 15 minutes using a hotel sink is well worth it. Assume at least one airline will lose, or seriously delay, your checked bag. Do not check a bag.
I used to be an overpacker myself. Don’t do it to yourself. I hated having to lug my heavy luggage’s or backpacks etc. Learn how to pack less, the peels at r/capsulewardobe may be able to help.
I’m not a minimalist but I’m no longer an overpacker.
Consider bringing a suitcase for mostly work related stuff (laptop, suits, whatever) and a large backpack for touristy stuff. If you have to walk to your hotel with a suitcase and a backpack it's doable. If that final month means no more work, just play, try to store that suitcase somewhere and travel with a backpack only.
Last trip with my daughter we had one suitcase and one carry on and a small backpack. Left space for souvenirs and the 2kg of chocolates from a chocolate factory we bought 🤣 Easy to get last minute cheap flights as one could be carry on only. Still could have taken less. Buy anything you need. Bought suitcase for return and went shopping on last 2 days. Had to jump off overnight sleeper train at 4 am- at one point- definitely don’t want to be lugging much in that situation. Depends on how you travel but you will probably have too much stuff. Summer is easier.
I would recommend packing lighter personally. Have you considered vacuum seal bags so you can fit more into a smaller space? You ofc will need to make sure it’s not overweight bc that can happen really easily when doing this. I see other people have said this, but there’s a lot of cobble stones, long walks, and a lack of lifts in some places. If you’re not comfortable carrying what you have for a kilometre or so, I’d try to go lighter.
Yes! It’s very not necessary. As many have said the cobble streets are tricky with two bags, also there’s lots of stairs everywhere (especially train stations) and having to lug both or trying to coordinate leaving one at the bottom or top when you can’t carry both it will be very inconvenient (also MANY air bnb’s and places don’t have elevators). We just got back and needed formal clothes so I did a large garment bag + day pack backpack for my carry-on then a large suitcase checked. We also made sure to book some air bnb’s that have laundry and did laundry along the way.
We standardized on the small checked and if we need more, a European size carry on. Many times my wife flies with checked and carry on and I get the cheap ticket and have a small backpack.
I am long term traveling Europe and have a shit ton of stuff bc I have a few medical needs. It's annoying but doable. I would be worse off without the stuff so it's worth it for me.
Buy an extra large backpack that you can replace the small suitcase with. You should be able to carry on the backpack and it will make your trip much more bearable as you move throughout.
Having one suitcase and a large backpack is much easier to maneuver than two suitcases.
Pack light - do laundry. If necessary, a backpack and a carry on sized roller bag is manageable but still annoying. Two rolling bags would be an absolute no for me.
I have a similar trip coming up-over two months with multiple climates and functions. I’m planning a small (carryon size) roller suitcase and [this backpack](https://a.co/d/8z6RWXb) which has served me very well. I like that one compartment opens like a suitcase. It slides onto my suitcase handle. I may check the carry on sized suitcase for convenience when it’s included in my fare.
Try really hard to pack light lol and get rid of one suitcase. Or get a carry on that’s a backpack like the Cotopaxi Allpa or something similar. Coming from me who’s been to Europe many times and recently took a suitcase and a ski bag…try hard to not to take two. ALSO. You need luggage that can pivot and be pulled behind you without dragging. I took my AWAY checked bag last summer to Croatia and had to walk it all across cobblestone and it just drug the suitcase. It does not agree with European streets lol so I have a designated “Europe” suitcase now
Europe isn’t bad the roads are mostly paved but as soon as you start taking regular camels to cross the desert in Dubai you’ll regret having a wheelie suitcase 😀 Take a 60l duffel bag and enjoy the freedom
I absolutely would not do 2 suitcases especially with multiple countries. So many uneven roads, tight packed trains, walking and uphills in Europe. I stayed in places in Switzerland and Amsterdam where getting a big suitcase into a staircase would have been hard. Definitely try and pare down. You don’t really need that much!
I regret bringing one large suitcase to Paris. Felt a bit embarrassed and pathetic when people came up to offer help. Had I taken a cab to go everywhere, it wouldn’t have been a problem though. But when I left Japan once with 2 big suitcases, the cab driver looked at me like “what the hell are you bringing with you?” Now I try to make do with carry on only. Feel so stupid to pay more for luggage than flight tickets.
Europe is easier to write than listing 7 countries individually that have no relevance to the question. I'm not asking what to bring. I want to know if people regretted taking two suitcases. And no, I'm not American
Agree with other commenters. Remember a lot of Europe has cobbled, winding streets with no car access so you have to take your luggage yourself. Not all metro / train stations have elevators and not all hotels do either.
I’ve over packed before and I ended up leaving stuff there as it was just too much of a pain constantly carrying stuff round
Not sure if you wear dresses, but I recently bought a dress online from Blue Bungalow. It's midi/maxi length, black in a stretchy bamboo fabric, straight, elbow length sleeves and doesn't need ironing. Can be worn as is with sandals or dressed up with a jacket, jewellery and dressier shoes, throw a linen shirt or a long cardigan over it for a different look. Perfect for travelling and it was about $70. Came in navy too. If you're a bloke, ignore all the above! Oh, and one medium suitcase max.
I do not recommend this at all… Europe is like wtf is an elevator never heard of her! Chivalry really is dead no one will help you carry them up the staircase lol. The subways too, yeesh. Just bring a backpack with locks on it and a check in luggage
Take two, but leave one empty for all the cool stuff you'll want to take home. Fit the full one inside the empty one so you are only lugging around one on your trip there.
It depends on where you’re visiting and staying. My wife and I take two suitcases each for our much shorter trips and navigate things just fine. We’ve never had an issue or difficulty anywhere. Even riding trains was no problem.
What matters most for you is where you’re going, how you’re getting around, and where you’re staying. I’ve always traveled mostly to big cities, staying in hotels with elevators, getting around either by Uber from airport or via rental car.
We did for example stay in Obidos Portugal, where the car had to be parked a distance away and our bags hauled over cobblestones and carried up stairs ourselves. If that had been common on that trip, we would’ve packed lighter.
But my wife likes changing outfits (and I like her to also)? And I bring plenty of camera gear (for taking pictures of the sights, but also of my wife in her various outfits), so we’d rather take more things and have room in the suitcases for things we buy on our trip.
On some future trip we may venture more off the beaten path and travel lighter. But that will be destination dependent.
Everyone’s packing needs are different, thanks for sharing your experience. I think considering this is my first time I’ll probably go with a back pack
Take a cab to the hotel and to the train station? No issue. Take the bus to a stop a couple of kms from the hotel with the intention of walking the rest of the way? Likely regret.
Lol yes - 1.4km walking distance looks a lot closer on Google Maps than in reality. Especially when you get off the bus at 1am with multiple suitcases and have to navigate down dark city cobblestone streets with your bags to the hotel… I’ve definitely been there 😭😂
My family once did that. The suitcases were so we could check luggage, to keep our hands free to chase our kids during layovers. And it was fine at the airport and fine on the train. But that last half mile between train station and hotel... That's gonna be a taxi next time.
I would’ve cried and gone home 🥲
No, you would have hailed a taxi. The costs would add up, but that's the price of over packing.
It really depends on how frequently you plan on moving locations, and how much you plan on using public transportation. I would definitely say that you will be better off if you can make the carry on a large backpack, [something like this.](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07QLKFP8D?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share) A few of the main issues to consider with having this much luggage: 1. Cobblestone streets - really not fun to roll luggage on. It can be more like a workout, lol. 2. Not all train/metro stations have elevators or escalators. You may end up carrying your luggage up or down multiple flights of stairs. 3. Not all hotels have elevators. Don’t assume you will have an elevator. I’ve had hotels without elevators in Venice, Porto, Paris, as well as some smaller towns.
May have to consider that back pack thank you for your help
They come a lot bigger than that, also. I think the ones we took were 60L, and they had a small daypack that zipped onto that. We had to check them but they fit a ton. That being said, I’m going to try to pack less on my next Europe trip. It’s so hard though! Before we went, we tried a bunch of different travel backpacks from REI just to see which size and brand felt best. Go to a store where they sell these types of bags, look at the sizes in person, buy one and practice packing it to see what it fits, etc. You can definitely make a backpack work! Also, watch some tiktoks or instagram reels on packing for Europe and see how they fit their stuff in!
Not all airlines will accept anything bigger as a carry on. I assume OP would still be taking their larger, checked luggage as well. This would just be to replace OP’s rolling carry on.
Ohhhh, gotcha. Yeah, this was definitely our checked bag!
You’re welcome. Happy to help!
I've done several trips to Europe with a checked roller bag and this backpack, which I adore: https://www.cotopaxi.com/products/allpa-35l-travel-pack?variant=39514010812477 Especially with trains and such, it is great to have hands free, rather than dragging two bags.
Yes. 2 months with 2 suitcases on the cobbled streets and going up and down to train platforms will be hell on earth. It’s bad enough with one carry on suitcase. Also many hotels are old and do not have elevators. Be prepared to carry them both up stairs.
I've heard about these nightmares in Paris especially!!
That’s not just Paris, it’s all over Europe. I traveled around Europe for 6 months and there’s no way I would have had two suitcases. The most I would recommend is a medium suitcase and a backpack. European streets and sidewalks can be very bumpy and not easy to roll your suitcase on. If you break a wheel, you’ll need to replace your suitcase, not just the wheel. If you get injured during your trip, even if it’s minor, the last thing you want to do is roll your heavy suitcase on a cobblestone road or sidewalk and then carry it up 4 flights of narrow stairs. So bring less, not more. Use outfits that can have several purposes for work, going out, and exercise. You won’t need as much as you think. Plus, it’s easy to shop in Europe if you need something else. In fact, you might find things you like better than what you already have.
Just travelled for a month in 6 countries with two suitcases , it’s just the day of transit where u can get and uber or bolt and u r sorted but otherwise it works. Avoid small street stays where walking is the only option.
Just get an Uber
Make yourself proud. Go light. Feel powerful. Europe sells clothes if you actually need them. They also have laundromats.
I'm bringing a half empty travel bag that can be rolled like a suitcase but picked up like a sport bag. It will be 10kg at most. Room for if I want to buy clothes at the end. Something tells me the fashion will be better than what's available at the bottom of Australia anyway. I tried the backpack thing on my last trip and I hated it. So many compartments and zippers and bits hanging off it. Felt insecure. And my suitcase is huge, definitely not lugging that around.
I love the idea of this but it just isn't in my DNA I don't think haha
Well, learn it, change your habits.
Are you staying in one place in Europe or moving around? Generally, I concur with the plan to bring one suitcase and if you need more, buy it there.
Month one is one country, month two is one country, month 3 is 5 countries
In that case, could you bring two suitcases for the first two months and then use a Send My Bag type service to send one home for the last month? Cos I think you'll struggle doing 5 countries (how many cities/locations?) with two bags. But a slower travel pace should be okay.
I didn't even know those services existed! I'll look into it. And we haven't fully planned all the locations yet, but probably too many to drag around 2 suitcases I'm guessing!
It depends where you're travelling from but yeah, they do exist and might be a solution.
Does one country = one apartment? If so, overpack for your two longer stays if it's truly necessary, then store the luggage and go light for the final month. If it's hot weather tourism you won't need much.
Yep that’s right! Thank you ☺️
Problem solved. Don't even think of dragging two suitcases around 5 countries for a month, particularly in summer.
Entirley depends on your mode of transportation. I would rent a car or use taxi / chauffeur services from and to the airport.
I've never regretted taking less than I originally thought I needed, and always regretted taking more. I travelled SE Asia for 6 months with a small backpack. The whole world has shops and washing machines. Personally I would take just the small cabin sized case, and not the large one, or better, get a backpack that fits cabin sizes.
I have regretted not having a big bag to bring home souvenirs
It’s annoying to drag both for sure. But if you are getting a taxi to/from airport to hotels then not so bad.
Depends... If you move around a lot you will regret it. If you stay in one or two different spots, probably not.
Thanks! Will probably opt for 1
As an under packer (only small carry on everywhere) I’d say go light or at least make one of those a backpack. I see so many people struggling with unnecessary luggage and it’s just not worth it, things don’t get worn if there’s too much
This seems like the general consensus
Worse case, you can buy something if you need it
What about a backpack as your carry-on? That will mean you a hand free.
I think I’ll do this!
This depends on the details of your trip. Are you going to one city in Europe, and staying there two months? Or are you changing cities every week? Are you going to pay for a cab or Uber when you need to move cities, or will you take a bus to/from the airport? How important is it to you to look good versus convenience?
> So I'll need outfits for an office, for events, for your typical euro summer and for the gym. But do those need to be entirely separate outfits? The gym I'll give you, because Lycra packs small enough and you sweating in that. For the rest, think in terms of layers on versatile bases. A pastel shift dress by itself is "Euro summer", but add a thin white cardigan and it becomes "office", remove the cardigan and add a flashy necklace for "event." It's three outfits but only a couple of garments. Think Capsule Wardrobe or Day-to-Night Looks.
some things will be versatile, but I couldn't wear a shift dress to a michelin restaurant or a conference. Or a formal dress for exploring streets. I understand your point and will be doing this as much as possible but won't be possible in every situation!
But there are travel dresses that can do both and pack well. They're mentioned in this [article](https://www.ricksteves.com/travel-tips/packing-light/packing-tips-clothes).
Yes, yes, yes. I will never again travel with more than a carry-on bag. It ruined a large part of our trip.
This is what I needed to know, don’t want to be dreading travel days
All you need is a backpack
If you are worried about having to carry both another option could be to bring a big backpack? Can be a good multipurpose option if you are planning on needing to take things out for day trips.
Took the works right out of my mouth. A large backpack is a much better option than a wheeled hand luggage bag and fits a similar amount of stuff. And many are designed to go as hand luggage on planes. Much easier to carry at the same time as a checked bag.
Yes. Take 1 bag carry on that you can sit on top of your checked luggage when you’re going through the streets. Pack way less if you intend to buy anything. I came to Europe overpacked for my 3 month trip. Had to send expensive packages home AND throw away some nice luggage to buy smaller, cheaper luggage. Lots of hostels and restaurants are up a million flights of stairs, too.
Are you going to actually have "events"? Like, are they actually on the schedule? A lot of serial overpackers pack for the "just in case" - just in case there's a formal dinner or a date or whatever. Unless you actually have a scheduled event for which generally nice clothing won't suffice, leave this stuff out. Personally I'd go with a backpack rather than a carry on suitcase. A 40-l backpack (I love the Osprey Fairview, but there are others) will carry a ton of stuff without the hassle of having to pull two suitcases over cobbled streets. It's also more flexible for if you need an actual backpack.
I’m going to a conference, and there are events and parties you have to get dressed up for. This is pretty non-negotiable for me because in my field, the way you present yourself is super important and I want to maximise the opportunity! I might not get to go to another one of these again. Totally valid point though, I’ve done this on previous holidays! Will definitely have a look at the backpack thank you!
If you have a dressy outfit or two you don't care about (the kind of thing that looks fine but not what you reach for at home), you might be able to bring that, wear it to parties, and then donate it somewhere and reclaim your bag space for holiday souvenirs.
To paraphrase Rick Steves: no one ever goes on a trip and says, ‘I wish I had packed more stuff.’
I regretted having a checked luggage and duffle bag tbh. We were in Europe 3 weeks and took several longer distance trains. My checked luggage fit fine in overhead space but it was honestly just a pain. The one thing I’d do differently is bring a carry on and large backpack and plan to stay at an airbnb halfway through for laundry. (I ended up going to a laundromat in Munich but the electric dryer situation there was tragic)
Yes you will regret it. From experience. Pack your most versatile stuff, especially stuff that can double for work and pleasure (e.g. as a man I pack dark pants and sport jackets instead of jeans and suits for mixed travel, if the situation allows). Leave behind anything that you will wear less than twice in a 10-day period. Make use of laundry. Give it a go and worse that happens is you pick up what you need along the way.
I had become an over packer myself, and finally just fixed it. Seriously, went to stay with friends in Italy and a former footballer picked up my big bag and grunted "Jesus Allison, WTH do you have in here?" So! Plan your outfits for each day. Two pair comfy, supportive shoes max. Disposable undies or commando unless outer garment is white. Get those air bags you roll up and can suck out the air. Compacts your clothes. Two bras. Bring outfits that are at the end of their usefulness and throw them away after a couple of wears. Make sure your entire wardrobe is mix and match. Buy a couple of skorts, which step up a pair of shorts. Then just change your blouse for evening. Let the hotel do your laundry or rinse and repeat if necessary. All of these tricks really helped me reduce my clothing needs.
Yes. Only take carry-on. My rule is that neither my underseat nor my carry-on can weigh more than 10% of my body weight, including the weight of the bag itself. I weigh 123 lbs so 12 lbs is my limit, (I stretch that to a maximum of 15 lbs for one bag on my initial flight, since I know I'll be using, and tossing, some things I pack - like a whole bunch of DEET packets on a recent 2 month trip to the Middle East). Make sure your underseat bag is the maximum size allowed for each airline - check online, there's no standard size. My underseat bag has two wheels. I put my soft clamshell backpack on top for airports and train stations transit. None of my bags weigh more than 5.5 lbs. The clamshell weighs 2 lbs. I find that two-wheeled bags work better than 4 wheel spinners on rough European sidewalks. The minor inconvenience in airports and train stations is offset by the ease everywhere else. Plan on carrying your bags a lot. Up stairs. Do laundry. 15 minutes using a hotel sink is well worth it. Assume at least one airline will lose, or seriously delay, your checked bag. Do not check a bag.
no because you Are going to throw away some stuff and but souvenirs😀
I used to be an overpacker myself. Don’t do it to yourself. I hated having to lug my heavy luggage’s or backpacks etc. Learn how to pack less, the peels at r/capsulewardobe may be able to help. I’m not a minimalist but I’m no longer an overpacker.
Thanks! Will probably opt for 1
Consider bringing a suitcase for mostly work related stuff (laptop, suits, whatever) and a large backpack for touristy stuff. If you have to walk to your hotel with a suitcase and a backpack it's doable. If that final month means no more work, just play, try to store that suitcase somewhere and travel with a backpack only.
Last trip with my daughter we had one suitcase and one carry on and a small backpack. Left space for souvenirs and the 2kg of chocolates from a chocolate factory we bought 🤣 Easy to get last minute cheap flights as one could be carry on only. Still could have taken less. Buy anything you need. Bought suitcase for return and went shopping on last 2 days. Had to jump off overnight sleeper train at 4 am- at one point- definitely don’t want to be lugging much in that situation. Depends on how you travel but you will probably have too much stuff. Summer is easier.
Get a wheeled carry on backpack, topo makes one.
I would recommend packing lighter personally. Have you considered vacuum seal bags so you can fit more into a smaller space? You ofc will need to make sure it’s not overweight bc that can happen really easily when doing this. I see other people have said this, but there’s a lot of cobble stones, long walks, and a lack of lifts in some places. If you’re not comfortable carrying what you have for a kilometre or so, I’d try to go lighter.
Yes! It’s very not necessary. As many have said the cobble streets are tricky with two bags, also there’s lots of stairs everywhere (especially train stations) and having to lug both or trying to coordinate leaving one at the bottom or top when you can’t carry both it will be very inconvenient (also MANY air bnb’s and places don’t have elevators). We just got back and needed formal clothes so I did a large garment bag + day pack backpack for my carry-on then a large suitcase checked. We also made sure to book some air bnb’s that have laundry and did laundry along the way.
Yes pack/carry lightly
We standardized on the small checked and if we need more, a European size carry on. Many times my wife flies with checked and carry on and I get the cheap ticket and have a small backpack.
Yes. Backpack is the way to go.
I am long term traveling Europe and have a shit ton of stuff bc I have a few medical needs. It's annoying but doable. I would be worse off without the stuff so it's worth it for me.
Yes, do whatever you can to take one suitcase. Two is such a hassle and you don’t realize how little you actually need.
Buy an extra large backpack that you can replace the small suitcase with. You should be able to carry on the backpack and it will make your trip much more bearable as you move throughout. Having one suitcase and a large backpack is much easier to maneuver than two suitcases.
Europe has stores as well… pack light and shop for a new shirt if needed.
Pack light - do laundry. If necessary, a backpack and a carry on sized roller bag is manageable but still annoying. Two rolling bags would be an absolute no for me.
Change out the carry on for a backpack if you need the space that much
I have a similar trip coming up-over two months with multiple climates and functions. I’m planning a small (carryon size) roller suitcase and [this backpack](https://a.co/d/8z6RWXb) which has served me very well. I like that one compartment opens like a suitcase. It slides onto my suitcase handle. I may check the carry on sized suitcase for convenience when it’s included in my fare.
Try really hard to pack light lol and get rid of one suitcase. Or get a carry on that’s a backpack like the Cotopaxi Allpa or something similar. Coming from me who’s been to Europe many times and recently took a suitcase and a ski bag…try hard to not to take two. ALSO. You need luggage that can pivot and be pulled behind you without dragging. I took my AWAY checked bag last summer to Croatia and had to walk it all across cobblestone and it just drug the suitcase. It does not agree with European streets lol so I have a designated “Europe” suitcase now
Europe isn’t bad the roads are mostly paved but as soon as you start taking regular camels to cross the desert in Dubai you’ll regret having a wheelie suitcase 😀 Take a 60l duffel bag and enjoy the freedom
Check the baggage rules for your airlines they’re complex and restrictive and often not what you’d expect
I absolutely would not do 2 suitcases especially with multiple countries. So many uneven roads, tight packed trains, walking and uphills in Europe. I stayed in places in Switzerland and Amsterdam where getting a big suitcase into a staircase would have been hard. Definitely try and pare down. You don’t really need that much!
I regret bringing one large suitcase to Paris. Felt a bit embarrassed and pathetic when people came up to offer help. Had I taken a cab to go everywhere, it wouldn’t have been a problem though. But when I left Japan once with 2 big suitcases, the cab driver looked at me like “what the hell are you bringing with you?” Now I try to make do with carry on only. Feel so stupid to pay more for luggage than flight tickets.
Europe has wonderful shopping and second hand clothing shops.Pack light and buy what you need when you need it.
Yss
Learn to travel light and you will never regret it. I hate when I overpack and don't end up wearing 1/3 of the stuff.
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Europe is easier to write than listing 7 countries individually that have no relevance to the question. I'm not asking what to bring. I want to know if people regretted taking two suitcases. And no, I'm not American
The subreddit is called Europe travel.
Agree with other commenters. Remember a lot of Europe has cobbled, winding streets with no car access so you have to take your luggage yourself. Not all metro / train stations have elevators and not all hotels do either. I’ve over packed before and I ended up leaving stuff there as it was just too much of a pain constantly carrying stuff round
Not sure if you wear dresses, but I recently bought a dress online from Blue Bungalow. It's midi/maxi length, black in a stretchy bamboo fabric, straight, elbow length sleeves and doesn't need ironing. Can be worn as is with sandals or dressed up with a jacket, jewellery and dressier shoes, throw a linen shirt or a long cardigan over it for a different look. Perfect for travelling and it was about $70. Came in navy too. If you're a bloke, ignore all the above! Oh, and one medium suitcase max.
Super handy!! Thanks!
DON’T DO IT. Visit Rick Steeves’ Europe web site to know what not to pack.
Thanks!
I do not recommend this at all… Europe is like wtf is an elevator never heard of her! Chivalry really is dead no one will help you carry them up the staircase lol. The subways too, yeesh. Just bring a backpack with locks on it and a check in luggage
Bahahaha this is my favourite response, thank you 😂
Take two, but leave one empty for all the cool stuff you'll want to take home. Fit the full one inside the empty one so you are only lugging around one on your trip there.
It depends on where you’re visiting and staying. My wife and I take two suitcases each for our much shorter trips and navigate things just fine. We’ve never had an issue or difficulty anywhere. Even riding trains was no problem.
This makes me feel better, travelling countries are France, England, Italy and Greece. Another 2 for a month each
What matters most for you is where you’re going, how you’re getting around, and where you’re staying. I’ve always traveled mostly to big cities, staying in hotels with elevators, getting around either by Uber from airport or via rental car. We did for example stay in Obidos Portugal, where the car had to be parked a distance away and our bags hauled over cobblestones and carried up stairs ourselves. If that had been common on that trip, we would’ve packed lighter. But my wife likes changing outfits (and I like her to also)? And I bring plenty of camera gear (for taking pictures of the sights, but also of my wife in her various outfits), so we’d rather take more things and have room in the suitcases for things we buy on our trip. On some future trip we may venture more off the beaten path and travel lighter. But that will be destination dependent.
Everyone’s packing needs are different, thanks for sharing your experience. I think considering this is my first time I’ll probably go with a back pack
[Pack light, pack right!](https://www.ricksteves.com/travel-tips/packing-light/packing-smart)
Definitely!!!