Hey loves! So tonight's post is about what to pack for Europe in the summer. As you may remember, I lived in Wales the summer following my freshman year of high school. I packed a lot of stuff I wish I hadn't. I look back on those pictures and cringe because poor taste in clothing (and glasses, but we won't go into that).
T-shirts and tank tops. You'll want to pack these in fairly neutral colors. Not just so that they go with everything else that you pack, but also so that you blend in with the locals. England at least tends to favor neutrals. I like blues, greys, tans, whites (though this is risky because of stains), and stripes.
Jeans. These are for the "is it really summer because it's like 2 degrees outside" days. Skinny and dark wash is better. I also like to have a pair that I can roll into capris. Shorts are for the "Yay it finally feels like summer!" days. Khaki and black are your best options. If you're in London or using public transport, just say no to anything white. It won't stay that way.
Dressy tops. Can either go with a blazer and jeans for a day trip to a museum or a city, or left alone if going out to dinner.
Cotton skirts for lovely summer days. Perfect for seeing castles, gardens, or antique shops. These should also be in colors that work with all your tshirts.
Button down and a sweater. For cold days or things where you want to look sharp. I would also add a heavy navy blue cable knit sweater to my bag (I would have pulled mine out, but it's in storage).
Cardigans and blazers. Should match the t-shirts. Europe is colder than the U.S.. It's just a fact, you need layers. Castles, museums, restaurants, etc., are also all really cold.
Dresses. I like to have one really fancy dress for nice dinners, and two dresses that could go to more casual dinners, day trips, or church.
A raincoat is an absolute must. All the locals have amazing ones, please do not be caught in some sort of plastic poncho thing. Do not bring shame on the United States in that way. This will also be doubling as your coat for warmth, so make sure it's lined. This is a fun place to add some color to your outfit.
Shoes. Most people have serious trouble in this area. You really need black heels, a pair of nude flats, and a pair of chic sneakers that you can walk in. It is a given that they should match your t-shirts and should be able to be worn with your jeans. So, if all your t-shirts are brown, do NOT pack black sneakers. Make sure they are clean. These really shouldn't be running shoes either.
You'll also need some accessories. Since these are small and easy to pack, jam as many in your case as you can (okay, leave room for souvenirs!). Through in some scarves, a few necklaces and bracelets, a hat, a swimsuit, and a headband and barrettes. You'll need a crossbody bag so your hands will be free. It should have a zipper for obvious reasons. A note: European hairdryers are pointless. Seriously. They might as well not exist. And don't try packing one, because you need an adapter and it's just too much trouble. Get used to showering at night and letting your hair dry while you sleep, or learn to do things with wet hair. French braids are a life saver.
Train rides are long, and you can only stare at charming rolling hills and sheep for so long. Bring a travel journal, a book of crosswords/sudoko, your iPod and headphones, and a pen and pencil. Colored pencils are also nice if you like to sketch. If you're going to a non-English speaking country, bring your phrasebook. Note: Don't bring too many pens and pencils. These make awesome and cheap souvenirs. Books can also be picked up on your trip. How awesome would it be to buy a few Jane Austen novels at Jane Austen's house in Bath? (Actually, personal experience, it's pretty darn awesome!)
Anyone heading on an exciting trip soon?
Lots of Love,
Sophie
