What to Pack for Europe in the Fall

I visited Paris and London in late September and early October and I absolutely loved the weather. I found the below clothing items to be exactly what I needed to keep cool and comfortable for my European vacation. Autumn in Europe is just so dreamy!

What to Pack For Europe in the Fall

The Europe in Fall Essentials Packing List

Jeans & Pants

Go for a mix of denim jeans and black trouser pants. I typically opt for high-waisted trousers and a straight leg or slightly loose jean. Two pairs of jeans and 1 pair of trouser pants or vice versa should work well for a week-long trip.

I often shop at Abercrombie and Old Navy to find pants with shorter inseams since I’m a short gal and keeping it simple was perfect for travel in Europe. 

All the Tops You’ll Need

I suggest 5-6 tops including sweaters, basic long-sleeve tops (or bodysuits), and blouses.

During the day, I opt for my more comfortable tops like sweaters and basic long-sleeve shirts. In the evening, I’ll swap in my blouses to feel a bit dressier for dinners out.

I love having some basic layers that I can layer on a cooler day as needed. I suggest even packing 1-2 tank tops for a base layer. 

Flat Boots

You’ll likely be walking 10,000 steps a day and anything heeled or too heavy just isn’t worth the space in your luggage. Instead opt for a flat boot. Flat riding boots are back in again. Don’t forget tall socks for your boots!

Packing Tip

To find more room in your luggage, make sure to use the space inside of your shoes for packing. Boots are perfect for storing all of your socks!

Sneakers

I wore sneakers almost all days during this trip. I need my feet to be comfortable walking countless miles while touring cities. So I opt for New Balance sneakers as they are trendy and typically the most comfy. Adidas Sambas or a plain white leather sneaker are also very popular. 

Jackets

I packed a denim jacket and an oversized black boucle-style jacket. If it was a chilly evening or cooler day, I could wear the denim jacket underneath the boucle one. 

Coat

Pack one light winter coat. I packed my “packable” one which folds down into a really small size and fit perfectly in one of my suitcase pockets where it stayed the entire trip.

Being there in early October I didn’t quite need the coat, but depending on the time of year, if it’s later in the fall season, you’ll likely need to bundle up a bit more. 

Small Umbrella or Rain Jacket

You’ll likely be greeted with rain at least one day of your trip. Hopefully it’s not much. But you should be prepared with an umbrella, rain jacket or trench coat. 

Scarf

For extra warmth, pack a simple scarf. I used mine in the mornings when it was extra chilly. 

Cross-Body Purse

While shoulder bags might be more popular at the moment, I want to keep my hands free while traveling, so I opt for cross-body bags. 

A BAGGU cross-body is going to hold SO much. It’s a great day option. And for the evening, I’d choose a leather (or faux-leather) purse. I love my Prada Re-Edition 2005 purse as it can be worn in a cross-body or shoulder style. 

Black Tights

Of course you’ll want to pack two pairs in case you get a tear. Go with the more sheer tights. These can go under your pants as an extra layer if you need it. But they pair perfectly with dresses. Everyone looks good in a dress, black tights and boots.

A Simple Neutral Dress

Pack at least one simple, neutral dress. I didn’t even wear mine until the last night out. I could have repeated one of my earlier outfits, so it’s up to you if you’d like the option of having a dress. 

Small Backpack or Camera Bag

If you enjoy photography like me, then you’ll want to keep a separate bag or backpack for your camera. I can typically fit my camera in my BAGGU bag.

However, you could also go with a small backpack. If you do, make sure to purchase one with safety features or add a lock to prevent anyone from accessing your valuables.

A small backpack or a larger crossbody bag will also come in handy for those days when you know you’ll be away the entire day and want to pack any extra items or save room for souvenirs.

Travel Tip: Check if Backpacks are Allowed

Before bringing your backpack to certain sights, make sure it’s allowed! The Louvre does not allow backpacks.

I’ve also been to museums in the States that do not allow them. A quick website check should help before deciding whether to take a backpack that day.

Along with a few other essentials (pajamas & under garments) these are the clothes that lasted me about 9 days in Paris and London last October.

I hope this helps you pack! It really doesn’t take much. One of our Airbnbs came with a washer & dryer so I was able to wash my clothes half way through the trip.

If this won’t be the case for you, I would add a few more light long sleeve shirts to wear. My biggest tip is to just be prepared to deal with cooler weather and changing temperatures by having those layers and light jackets available.

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Have you ever been to Europe? What items do you think are a must-have for a Europe trip? Let me know below.