Yes, I’m Overpacking for Europe (And Here’s Exactly What’s Going in My Suitcase)

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Let’s get one thing straight: I’m not doing carry-on only. I want options. I want cute outfits. I want to be that girl with towel clips, maxi dresses, AND the perfect flats for every port. So if you’re headed to Europe, with a cruise through Spain, Portugal, and England, and you’re planning on checking a bag, here’s how to overpack intentionally.

While doing laundry is a possibility onboard, I don’t want to take the time to do it! I’d rather pack one to two outfits per day and not have to worry about it. I also don’t want to feel like I’ve left something at home. When in doubt, I’m packing it! Because yes, you can have it all without schlepping the unnecessary stuff.

1. Bring the Outfits, All the Outfits!

Say it with me - you can bring options and don’t have to rewear clothes.

What I’m Packing:

  • 10 dresses (including day time maxis and night time glam - it’s not to many I promise!)

  • 2–3 casual day looks — think linen pants, breezy tops, or matching sets

  • 1-2 “surprise” outfits for formal night and pirates night

  • Light layers like cardigans, a denim jacket, or a cropped blazer to throw over anything

2. Yes, I’m Packing Multiple Pairs of Shoes

And I’m not sorry about it. Different cities, climates, and a cruise, I need options.

My Shoes:

  • Comfy walking sneakers (for cobblestones, castle tours, and airport sprints)

  • Chic sandals (for dinners, museums, or wine tastings)

  • Nude or sparkly flats (cruise nights, fancier dinners)

  • Flip flops or slides (for pool decks, spa visits, or your room)

  • Optional: running shoes (for morning walks around the ship)

3. I’m Bringing My Beauty Routine

The cruise may provide basics, but I like my products.

Non-Negotiables:

  • Travel-size skincare and haircare (I bring as little as my face and hair will let me get away with - no need for serums)

  • Makeup with SPF, waterproof mascara, and a red lip for European glamour

  • A few sheet masks or eye patches for a DIY cruise spa night (think Mickey Bars and matching face masks)

  • Hair tools — I personally leave these at home. If you need them, consider buying hair tools that handle dual-voltage

4. My Personal Pharmacy

Because I’d rather have it and not need it than the other way around.

What’s Coming With Me:

  • All prescription meds in their original bottles (this is key, especially through airport security)

  • Motion sickness remedies

  • The works: painkillers, allergy meds, antacids, cold meds, anti-diarrheal, laxatives, and a few bandaids

  • Ace bandage (I am the klutz of the group)

Tip: Keep essentials in your carry-on in case of delays or luggage issues. If you need to bring something bigger (cpap anyone?) it can be in it’s own bag and should not count as a personal item or carry-on.

5. Unexpected Essentials That Make the Trip Better

These are the little things that seasoned travelers swear by:

  • Towel clips to keep your towel in place on the cruise deck

  • Water Bottle or Travel Mug which is so easy to refill onboard (I’d rather buy water while I’m walking around so I don’t have to carry anything extra)

  • Laundry bag for keeping clean vs. dirty separate in your suitcase

  • Wrinkle-release spray – I’d love to bring a mini-steamer but it’s not allowed onboard (double check with your cruise)

  • Hats - think a baseball cap that’ll always be with me and something cuter for walking through town

6. Bags on Bags

One suitcase won’t cut it and that’s okay.

  • Medium Away checked suitcase – The mothership

  • Carry On Away which is essential for cruise embarkation day (my biggest fear is my luggage getting lost so I always want a few items with me!)

  • Crossbody bag for sightseeing, museum days, and staying hands-free

  • Foldable tote (or 2) to use on beach days, for market hauls, or even as an extra carry-on if you shop too much (oops)

Final Word: Pack What Brings You Joy (Within Reason)

Overpacking doesn’t mean bringing everything. It means bringing what makes you feel comfortable, stylish, and prepared, without drowning in excess. You’re not backpacking through hostels. You’re cruising through Europe, and you deserve the maxi dress and the backup maxi dress.

Let the minimalists judge. You’ve got a tour to Sintra in Portugal, afternoon tea in London, and tapas in Barcelona to dress for. Pack the outfit. Wear the heels. Bring the towel clips. You’re traveling like the main character (and she’s prepared).

A little Bit About Me

As a travel advisor, I specialize in planning personalized getaways that take the stress out of vacation planning. I help busy, ambitious women design dream escapes.

Whether it’s a relaxing beach retreat, a culture-packed city break, or a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, I will take your ideas out of the group chat and make them happen. From flights and accommodations to curated experiences, I handle the details so you can truly unplug. If you’re a woman who does it all—except plan time off—I’m here to make travel easy, inspiring, and unforgettable. Let’s turn your travel goals into a well-deserved escape.