2 Weeks in Europe in a Carry-on

The first time I took a two week trip to Europe I found the largest suitcase I owned, a carry-on, and a backpack and filled them all to the brim with completely unnecessary items. Since then I’ve had to tackle more difficult packing challenges like how to pack for a week in only a backpack or how to pack two weeks worth of winter clothes in only a carry-on.

Next week I’m facing a new challenge - I’m taking a seventeen-day trip where I’ll visit Ireland, Northern Ireland, England, and the South of France. I’ll be traveling through and variety of weather conditions and a variety of cultures, and I have to fit everything I bring into a carry-on! In order to conquer this challenge I have chosen fifteen pieces from my wardrobe - all neutral colors, layer-able, and easy to mix & match. I’m packing:

3 PAIRS OF PANTS

Comfortable pants while traveling are a must! You have to be prepared any for sitting, squatting, climbing, or laying down that might happen along the way. I’m packing a pair of versatile black skinny jeans, one pair of comfy black leggings to wear on the plane and to sleep in, and one fun pair of plaid capri’s (that actually feel like pajamas).

3 SHORT SLEEVE SHIRTS

Short sleeve shirts are perfect for layering or wearing alone, I’m bringing one red and white striped shirt, one plain black shirt, and one black and white striped v-neck.

2 LONG SLEEVE SHIRTS

I’m sticking with the classics: black and white long sleeved shirts.

2 SWEATERS

Because it’s going to be cold in some of the places I’m going, I’m bringing two sweaters that are lightweight and don’t take up too much space. I’m packing one colorful, geometric, turtleneck and one velvet sweatshirt.

2 BUTTON UPS

Button ups are so versatile and can be worn alone, used to layer, or tied around your waist. I’m packing a classic denim button up and one with a bold floral print.

1 DRESS

If I don’t have a lot of space and am not planning on doing anything fancy, I don’t usually pack a dress. However, this dress is neutral, versatile, and easy to layer.