Packing for a 2-Week Trip to Europe in Your 40s: Travel Light, Stay Sane
- Hillary Huyghue-Matias
- Mar 17
- 6 min read
Updated: Mar 22
I remember many years ago, when my husband and I were recently married, we went on a 3-day weekend getaway to a remote hideaway. We each carried a large suitcase without wheels, a backpack, and a shoulder bag, among other items. On top of that, we used public transportation to reach our destination, which included a train, bus, and a mule named Dále (meaning giddy-up in Spanish). When we arrived with all our stuff in tow, the driver dropped us off at the hotel's back entrance, which led straight to the kitchen. He must’ve assumed that with all of the bags we had, we were part of Gordon Ramsay’s Kitchen Nightmares crew setting up for filming.
Back in my 20s, when I went on vacation, I was a typical over packer. Even an overnight stay would include everything but the kitchen sink—four pairs of heels, a curling iron, and even a “just in case” evening gown (which, spoiler alert, never left my suitcase). Now that I’m in my 40s, my priorities have shifted: I want ease, efficiency and a suitcase I can actually lift without throwing out my back. If you’ve spent years packing for an army, or bringing half your belongings for just-in-case moments, now is the time to pack for you—and do it in a way that simplifies travel, not complicates it.
1. Embrace the One-Bag Rule (Yes, You Can Do It!)
Dragging around multiple bags in Europe is a rookie mistake. The uneven cobblestone roads, congested public transportation, and pickpocketing predators make it a nightmare to drag around a ton of luggage. Stick to one carry-on suitcase, or my personal preference, a travel backpack. Now, if you’re thinking this is impossible, think about what you packed for your last trip vs. what you actually wore. You probably had enough clothes left over to plan all your outfits for an entire work week.
Choose the Right Size – A 40L backpack or a compact rolling suitcase is ideal. Anything larger = overpacking temptation. Here's a tip: maximize your space. I use the roll and stuff method. Packing cubes can help keep everything neat, compress your clothes, and prevent the dreaded “exploding suitcase” effect.
Limit Your Clothes – Follow the mix and match rule. I like to take 1-2 pairs of jeans, 1 pair of dress pants, and a pair of convertible, waterproof pants, like these. They are great for rugged terrain, and can stand the test of time for hiking or other outdoor activities. A selection of varied and colorful shirts, blouses, and a light sweater will ensure you remain stylish and practical. I recommend bringing no more than 3 pairs of shoes: comfortable sneakers for walking, stylish flats or sandals, and one versatile shoe. Leaving your favorite 5" stilettos at home might mean you miss out on walking the catwalk for America's Next Over 40 Model (a potential future reality show), but your feet will thank you when you're comfortably strolling down those uneven first-century cobblestone walkways instead of being airlifted over the city by the local authorities.
Bring a Travel-Ready Purse - Your everyday purse most likely isn't the best bag to carry around your essentials like cash and ID in Europe. Pickpockets make a living hustling tourists, and if you're using a shoulder bag, a stylish backpack, or have your wallet in your pocket, it will only make you easy prey for thieves. Instead, opt for a crossbody purse or fanny pack.
Pro Travel Tip - If you plan on doing some light shopping during your vacation or promised to bring back souvenirs for your entire neighborhood, you'll need an extra bag for the trip back home. I love collapsible bags like these that can fit in a pocket and expand when needed. They can usually count as a personal item on the plane, so you probably won't have to worry about paying for extra baggage fees.
2. Pack Small Toiletries from Home (Yes, Really!)
While European pharmacies are fantastic, there’s nothing worse than landing after a long flight and realizing you don’t have your go-to shampoo or the only allergy medicine that keeps you from going into a sneezing fit. Pack small, travel-sized versions of your must-have toiletries to keep things simple.
Stick to the Essentials – Bring mini versions of your daily skincare, toothpaste, and deodorant. I like purchasing travel-size containers and refilling them. Don't forget to include a travel-size Febreze, as it's excellent for freshening clothes and removing wrinkles if you don't have access to an iron abroad.
Don’t Forget Medications – Needless to say, you'll want to bring all prescription medications with you on vacation. I also like to bring a Ziploc bag with different types of over-the-counter medications: everything from pain relievers, antacids, motion sickness pills, cold medicine, and some band-aids. You don't want to spend an afternoon of your vacation hopping from one pharmacy to another, using Google Translate to inquire where you can find anti-diarrheal medicine because you mistakenly ate chitterlings (pig intestines), thinking it was chicken.
3. What to Bring for Comfort at the Airport & in Transit
Long flights and layovers can really test your patience and endurance, often making you uncomfortable. But with a few small items, you can turn this challenging experience into a more manageable and even enjoyable trip. Here are a few items to make that plane ride more comfortable:
A Neck Pillow – If you have a long flight and have opted for the frugal route, you'll most likely be sitting in economy, and you might even be sitting in the dreaded middle seat. The last thing you want is to start your 2-week European trip with a case of whiplash. Many opt for a traditional neck pillow, but I prefer one like this, which provides extra support for sleeping upright so you don't wake up and realize you were sleeping on a stranger's shoulder.
Compression Socks – Prevent swollen ankles and keep your circulation happy on long-haul flights by using compression socks. Remember, your over-40 body can get stiff quickly, so make sure you get up and stretch often during the flight.
A Reusable Water Bottle – Stay hydrated without spending a fortune on overpriced airport water. A collapsible water bottle is a great space saver.
Noise-Canceling Headphones – Because someone will be snoring, a baby will be crying bloody murder, and another person will be watching TikTok videos at full volume.
4. Bring a Touch of Home (But Keep It Small)
Minimalist packing doesn’t mean sacrificing comfort. A few small, familiar items can make your trip more enjoyable and feel like you have a little bit of home with you, even though you're thousands of miles away.
Your Favorite Tea or Coffee – If you have a specific morning ritual that's 40+ years in the making, bring a small stash to avoid caffeine disappointment. I always bring a few packs of sugar in the raw to put in my morning cup of coffee to get my day off to the right start.
E-Reader or Tablet – Books are heavy, but a Kindle or iPad gives you endless reading options without the bulk.
Universal Travel Adapter – Many European countries have different plug types, so a universal adapter will keep all your devices charged. While it might not be strong enough to handle the high wattage of your expensive professional hair dryer, which hopefully you've left at home, it will keep your essentials charged.
Travel-Size Umbrella – Weather can be unpredictable, so bringing a compact umbrella from home is a good idea. That way, a sprinkle or an unexpected thunderstorm won't ruin your day exploring the city or your hair. We want good selfies!
Pack for a 2-Week Trip to Europe, Not for a Lifetime!
Most 40-something-year-olds have been overpacking for years for kids, spouses, and every unlikely what-if scenario. Now is the time to break free! Think about packing essentials, mixing and matching, comfort, and keeping it simple. Embrace the freedom of traveling light, and enjoy the trip without being weighed down by unnecessary luggage. Your back, your sanity, and future post-40 you will thank you. Now zip up that bag and go!
Ciao bella!
What about you? Do you tend to overpack? What are your must have travel essentials?
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Planning to go to my first Europe trip. This article help me a lot to make smart decision for packing.
Thank you