What I'm packing for a September Trip to Europe

I've been checking the weather every day in preparation for my upcoming trip. I can't wait! A girlfriend and I are taking a trip to Europe in September. We will be flying to Dublin, then fly to Paris, take a train to Brussels, a train to Amsterdam and then fly back to the United States. It's her first time over there and I am being her guide to what to bring. I am sharing our list of what we are packing to help you make smart packing decisions.

September is a transitional time. The weather is going from hot (extreme heat this year) to more mild temperatures. Traveling to multiple cities always has its challenges especially when traveling to multiple counties. It looks like it be coolest in Dublin with temps in the 60s and warmest in Paris with highs possibly getting up to the low 80s. The only constant thing in the forecast right now is rain. Having the right rain jacket that keeps you dry all day with make a huge difference when you are out & about sightseeing. It is truly miserable being wet in the damp drizzle and rain, it makes you cold and uncomfortable. We both purchased new rain jackets with hoods just for this trip as it's not something we typically need where we live.

Outfits:

Because we are going to multiple cities we don't need to have an extensive wardrobe in our luggage but we do need to have a few key pieces that can be easily mixed & matched.

Women's Waterproof Rain Jackets Long: Look for a jacket that is waterproof! I like a mid-length jacket that way if I need to sit on a bench or chair and it's been raining my bum won't get all wet. Other features that I like to look for are zipper pockets.

DKNY Women's Rib Crew Neck Short Sleeve Tee: It's always good to have a basic cotton tee that will go with everything and can be layered easily. like to make sure I have a classic color like black or cream that can be dressed up if needed.

Varley Women's Hawley Half Zip Sweater: A long flight essential! I always get chilly on flights and a soft pullover is a great cozy option.

One thing that I desperately needed was a good walking shoe. My feet are wide and flat with no arch and most shoes give my issues. I found these Mephisto Women's Kim Sneakers and I am so glad that I did! These have to be the most comfortable sneakers I have ever had.

Gonex 6-Piece Compression Packing Cubes: These set is great! the fabric is very thin and it comes with 4 compression bags and a shoe bag and a laundry bag. I really like this set because each bag has a different pattern making it easy to know what is inside each one. Pro tip: don't compress your bags until your return flight that way you'll have space for souvenirs.

Toiletries & Makeup:

Airless Pump Bottles: I prefer the .34oz for foundation and face sunscreen

Nalgene HDPE Wide Mouth Round Container: I have been using these for years. I like the 1oz jars for body wash or lotion and other liquids. The wide mouth makes it easy to get the product out or to clean the jars.

LANEIGE Water Bank Blue Hyaluronic Cream Moisturizer: This moisturizer is super lightweight yet my face feels hydrated.

Supergoop! Glowscreen SPF 40 - Glowy Primer: I use this everyday under my makeup and some days without anything else.

Small Clear Makeup Bag: This bag may seem tiny but when your carry-on only its the perfect size to hold all of the mini makeup containers. I like how you can easily see what's inside and it's not deep so you don't have to dig for things.

Other Essentials:

Cure Hydration - Electrolyte Drink Powder: I find that I tend to get dehydrated while traveling especially after flying. I fill my water bottle with this power and sip on it all day.

Ultra Thin Pill Organizer: I have been looking for a compact pill organizer for some time, this one with 7 compartments is perfect for the emergency meds such as pain relievers, allergy meds and vitamins for a 10 day trip. They also make a smaller 4 compartment one that I am tempted to get for my purse.

Hydro Flask Micro Bottle: I can't tell you how many questions and compliments I have received on this micro bottle. It's the perfect size to fit in my bag without being heavy.

© 2025. All rights reserved.