Michael Turner
Choose a 45–55 L rucksack and target a baseweight of 7–10 kg (excluding food and water) to move easily between trains, buses and budget flights; a packed carry-on under 8 kg avoids many additional fees. Select a pack with a ventilated back panel, removable hipbelt and external attachment points; weigh the loaded bag at home and trim any single items over 150 g.
Clothing: 3 quick-dry shirts, 2 merino or synthetic baselayers, 1 lightweight down jacket (200–300 g fill, compressible to ~1 L), 1 waterproof breathable shell (2.5-layer or better), 5 underwear, 4 pairs socks (2 merino), 1 pair trainers for daily walking and 1 pair sandals or slip-ons for evenings. Pack a smart-casual outfit (one shirt and one pair of chinos or skirt) for restaurants or museums.
Toiletries & medical kit: travel-size shampoo 100 ml, body wash 50 ml, toothbrush, toothpaste (travel tube), razor, deodorant (solid to avoid leaks), 2 small microfiber towels (40×80 cm). Carry prescriptions plus ibuprofen 200 mg ×20, paracetamol ×20, adhesive bandages, blister patches, antiseptic wipes and any allergy meds. Keep medicines in original packaging and a photocopy of prescriptions.
Electronics & documents: phone with offline maps and PDFs, USB-C charger, powerbank 10,000–20,000 mAh (10,000 mAh ≈ 2–5 phone charges depending on model), lightweight universal adapter compatible with Type C/E/F, one backup credit/debit card stored separately. Documents: passport + two photocopies, printed or saved confirmations for major transport and accommodation, health insurance card (EHIC/GHIC if eligible). Carry €200–€400 cash equivalent for initial expenses and use fee-free cards for ATM withdrawals.
Security & extras: RFID wallet or slim money belt for crowded areas, small padlock for lockers, lightweight foldable daypack 15–20 L for daily outings, packable rain cover. Laundry strategy: handwash every 4–6 days using 30–50 ml travel detergent; include 6–8 travel clips or a small line. Add a tiny sewing kit and a 2–3 m cord for improvised drying.
Seasonal adjustments: summer: sunhat, SPF 30+ sunscreen 50 ml, collapsible water bottle 0.75–1 L and ventilated footwear; winter: thermal base layer, insulated gloves, warm hat and a 300–500 g insulated midlayer. Footwear tip: break in shoes to avoid blisters and choose soles with moderate grip for cobblestones and mixed urban trails.
Packing checklist for a multi-country continental tour
Pack a 40–50 L main bag with a removable 15–20 L daypack; target base weight (excluding consumables like food and water) 6–9 kg for mobility between hostels and trains.
Clothing quantities by season: summer – 3 merino short-sleeve shirts (150–200 g each), 2 pairs lightweight travel pants/shorts, 5 pairs underwear, 4 pairs merino socks, 1 packable sun hat, 1 pair sandals; shoulder-season/winter – 2 merino long-sleeve base layers, 1 midlayer fleece, 1 lightweight down jacket (200–300 fill, compresses to fist), 1 waterproof breathable shell (100–250 g), 1 thermal base, 1 pair waterproof walking shoes. Rewash every 3–5 days; use quick-dry fabrics only.
Footwear strategy: one comfortable day shoe with grippy outsole (broken in), one lightweight waterproof shoe if planning wet weather, one pair sandals or casual shoes for evenings; pack 4 sock pairs including 2 heavier pairs for cold days.
Electronics and charging: unlocked smartphone + local SIM with at least 10–30 GB data, USB-C PD power bank 20,000 mAh (supporting 18–30 W), compact universal adapter with USB-A and USB-C ports, 1 USB-C cable and 1 short lightning/Micro‑USB as needed, lightweight earbuds, pocket Wi‑Fi only if frequent multi-person sharing required.
Documentation and money: passport valid for at least 6 months beyond planned exit date, printed & digital copies of reservations, travel insurance with minimum €30,000 medical coverage (Schengen visa requirement when applicable), one primary EMV chip credit card + one backup debit card stored separately, €150–300 cash on arrival for first 48–72 hours, photocopy of prescription meds and emergency contact list in cloud storage.
Health kit specifics: 3 days of prescription medication in original packaging, paracetamol/ibuprofen, antihistamine (loratadine or cetirizine), loperamide, oral rehydration sachets (4), sterile wound dressings, assorted adhesive plasters, antiseptic wipes, small thermometer, 100 ml hand sanitizer. Carry a basic needle-and-thread kit if planning longer stays.
Laundry and hygiene: 1 microfiber towel (40×90 cm), sink plug, travel soap sheets or 100 ml laundry liquid, travel clothesline, compact toothbrush and toothpaste, razor with disposable heads, minimal skincare (sunscreen SPF 30, lip balm).
Security and organisation: use 2 packing cubes (clothes and dirty laundry), 1 dry sack for electronics, lightweight cable lock for hostel lockers, small TSA-compatible combination lock, RFID sleeves for passport/card, luggage scale (handheld) to avoid overweight fees, keep passport and primary card in a neck pouch while in transit and backup copies in separate luggage.
On-the-road tips: photocopy visa pages and keep one printed set, pre-download maps and transport tickets for at least 48 hours offline, reserve night-train couchettes or high-speed seats in advance on popular routes, bring a sleep-liner for shared accommodations, and carry a refillable 0.75–1 L water bottle plus a small gravity or squeeze filter (Sawyer Mini or equivalent) for remote stretches.
Clothing by region and activity: exact item counts, layering and quick-drying fabrics
For a 14-day mixed-city + day-hike + coastal itinerary with laundry every 5–7 days, follow these precise counts and fabric choices.
Regional kits (counts)
- Northern / maritime (UK, Scandinavia, coastal north):
- Short-sleeve merino tees: 3
- Long-sleeve merino tops: 2
- Light synthetic thermal top (for wet cold): 1
- Midlayer fleece or synthetic jacket: 1
- Packable down/synthetic insulating jacket: 1
- Waterproof breathable shell (2.5–3 layer): 1
- Hiking trousers (nylon/nylon-elastane): 1
- Casual trousers (slim travel pant): 1
- Jeans (optional, slower drying): 0–1
- Socks: 5 pairs hiking merino-blend + 3 casual
- Underwear: 8
- Shoes: waterproof hiking shoes/boots + trainers
- Central / alpine (mountain day hikes, cooler evenings):
- Short-sleeve synthetic tees: 3
- Long-sleeve merino or polyester: 2
- Light wool/synthetic thermal: 1
- Softshell or lightweight fleece: 1
- Insulating down jacket (packable): 1
- Hard shell with taped seams (for storms): 1
- Convertible hiking pants: 1
- Lightweight trekking shorts: 1
- Socks: 6 pairs (4 hiking, 2 low-cut)
- Underwear: 8
- Shoes: mid-cut hiking boots + trail runners
- Mediterranean / warm coastal (south):
- Short-sleeve merino or polyester tees: 4
- Light long-sleeve sun shirt (nylon/UPF): 1
- Light fleece or thin merino for evenings: 1
- Packable windbreaker: 1
- Quick-dry shorts: 2
- Travel trousers (lightweight nylon): 1
- Swimwear: 2
- Microfibre towel: 1
- Socks: 4 pairs low-cut
- Underwear: 8–10
- Shoes: trainers + sandals
- Eastern / mixed climates (continental summers, cold nights):
- Short-sleeve merino/poly: 3
- Long-sleeve merino or synthetic: 2
- Light insulating layer (synthetic): 1
- Packable down: 1
- Waterproof shell: 1
- Casual trousers: 1
- Convertible pants or shorts: 1
- Socks: 5 pairs mixed
- Underwear: 8
- Shoes: trainers + optional waterproof shoes
Activity-specific add-ons and exact counts
- Urban nights out: 1 smart shirt or dress, 1 lightweight blazer or smart jumper, 1 pair city shoes (foldable/compact)
- Multi-day hikes: extra pair heavy hiking socks (+1), gaiters (optional), buff/neck gaiter: 1
- Beach/coastal day: 2 swim trunks/swimsuits, flip-flops or water shoes: 1
- Rainy days & commuting: packable umbrella (small) + waterproof pouch for electronics
- Cold wet conditions: replace down with synthetic insulated jacket if prolonged damp expected
Laundry cadence adjustments: if washing every 3 days, reduce underwear/socks by ~30%; if laundry every 10–14 days, increase underwear by 50% and add one extra tee and one extra pair of socks.
- Layering system (exact pieces):
- Base layer(s): 2–4 short-sleeve merino or polyester; 1–2 long-sleeve merino for chill.
- Mid layer(s): 1 lightweight fleece or synthetic jacket + 1 insulating (down or synthetic) if temps drop.
- Shell layer: 1 waterproof breathable shell with DWR; windbreaker optional.
- Fabric guide (quick-drying, odor control, durability):
- Merino wool (17–19 micron): odor-resistant, dries overnight on a radiator; best for tees and socks.
- Polyester / nylon blends: fastest drying (2–6 hours indoors), use for tees, shirts, and underwear.
- Synthetic insulation (Primaloft-type): retains warmth when wet – choose over down for persistently damp regions.
- Down (800-fill+): highest warmth-to-weight for dry-cold segments; choose water-resistant treated down if exposure to moisture likely.
- Softshell: stretch and wind resistance for active use; not fully waterproof – combine with shell in heavy rain.
- Travel ripstop nylon with elastane: best for trousers–quick-dry, durable, light stretch.
- DWR on shells and trousers: improves bead-off rain; reapply after several washes.
Quick-dry practicals: avoid cotton for active days; hang synthetic shirts or merino overnight on a hanger or towel-wrung to be reusable next day; pack a small travel laundry soap and use hostel radiators or heated drying racks when available.
Documents, travel insurance and money: digital copies, emergency contacts and ATM tips
Keep an encrypted cloud copy of passport main page, visa pages, travel insurance policy PDF and one printed copy stored separately from your main bag.
Digital copies & secure storage
- Files to store: passport (photo page), visas, local ID (if any), insurance policy, insurance emergency number, flight/train reservations, accommodation addresses with reservation codes, driver’s license, vaccination certificate, and copies of front/back of all cards.
- Formats & quality: PDF for text documents, JPG/PNG at 300 dpi for photos. Save one PDF and one high-res image per document.
- Naming convention: COUNTRYCODE_DOCTYPE_YYYYMM (example: GB_PASSPORT_202508.pdf) for fast lookup.
- Cloud: Google Drive/Dropbox/OneDrive with two-factor authentication enabled. Keep a second encrypted copy on a different provider.
- Encryption: place files in a password-protected ZIP or use VeraCrypt/container; password length ≥12 characters, mix letters+numbers+symbols. Store password on paper in a separate location from documents.
- Offline access: save a copy to your phone’s secure folder (iOS Files with device passcode or Android Secure Folder). Test opening PDFs without internet.
- Physical copy: one printed set in a thin waterproof folder locked in luggage or hostel locker.
Insurance, emergency contacts & policy details
- Minimum coverage suggestions: medical evacuation/repatriation €100,000+, medical treatment €100,000+. Cancellation coverage depends on prepaid costs – common ranges €1,000–€3,000.
- Policy checklist: 24/7 emergency hotline, multi-language assistance, repatriation, medical evacuation, COVID-19 treatment (if applicable), baggage delay/loss, claims process and time limits.
- Store these visibly: insurer name, policy number, 24/7 phone, email and claim portal URL in both cloud copy and a printed card in wallet.
- Emergency contact template (store in phone contacts and printed):
- Local emergency services: 112
- Home country emergency contact (ICE): Name – +CountryCode-Number – relation
- Insurance 24/7: +Phone – Policy#
- Bank lost-card hotline: +Phone
- Nearest consulate/embassy: phone + address
- Register option: enroll with your home government’s traveler notification service (so officials know location and contact). Keep registry confirmation saved.
- If you need to claim: photograph injury/location (timestamps), keep receipts, request written incident reports from police or clinic, file claim within insurer’s time window (commonly 30–90 days).
Cash, cards and ATM tactics
- Card setup: carry two separate cards (one debit for ATM withdrawals, one credit for emergencies). Ensure both have EMV chip + PIN.
- Notify bank via app or secure message before departure and set realistic daily limits (e.g., €500–€1,000) to avoid auto-blocks.
- ATM selection: use bank-branded ATMs (major retail banks) – fewer fees and safer. Avoid independent kiosks and airport exchange counters for best rates.
- Withdrawal strategy: withdraw larger sums 2–3 times per week (example €200–€400) to reduce per-withdrawal fixed fees. Keep a small daily float €30–€60 for buses/cafés.
- Fee expectations: many ATMs add a €1–€5 fixed fee + 1–3% conversion fee; cards marketed for travel may reduce or remove percentage fees (examples: Wise, Revolut, N26).
- Dynamic Currency Conversion (DCC): always choose local currency on the ATM or POS terminal to avoid inflated exchange rates.
- Cash storage: split funds – worn money pouch (~€100–€200), wallet (~€50–€150), luggage stash (~€200–€400). Total reserve recommendation: €500–€800, adjusted to planned daily budget and length of stay.
- If card swallowed or lost: call bank’s emergency hotline immediately (store number in phone and printed). Use mobile app to freeze card or request instant virtual replacement if available.
- Small notes: keep some €5–€20 notes for public toilets, small vendors and rural purchases; most ATMs dispense €20/€50/€100 notes – select machines that offer smaller denominations if needed.
- Backup power for phone: carry a 10,000 mAh power bank to ensure access to mobile banking, contacts and saved digital documents during long days out.
Electronics, power and connectivity: plugs, power banks, offline maps and secure backups
Carry a 65W USB-C PD wall charger, a 20,000 mAh power bank under 100 Wh, a fused universal plug adapter covering types C, E/F, G and J, and an eSIM or local SIM with 5–10 GB to start.
Plugs, chargers and cables
Use a single multiport USB-C PD charger (65W with two PD ports + one USB-A) instead of multiple bricks; it charges a phone, tablet and small laptop simultaneously. Most modern chargers accept 100–240 V – check the label; only use a voltage converter for single-voltage appliances (hairdryers, some irons). Buy a travel adapter with built-in fuse/surge protection and interchangeable heads for C, G and Swiss/J sockets. Pack these cables: one 1 m USB-C to USB-C (100W PD), one 30 cm USB-C to USB-C for power bank to laptop, one USB-C to Lightning if you use Apple, and a microSD reader. Keep all charging gear in a small pouch labeled for security checks.
Power banks, data and secure backups
Follow airline battery rules: batteries ≤100 Wh are allowed in cabin luggage without airline approval; 100–160 Wh require airline approval; >160 Wh are prohibited. Convert mAh to Wh using Wh = (mAh × 3.7 V) / 1000 – example: 20,000 mAh ≈ 74 Wh. Always keep power banks in carry-on, never checked baggage. Choose a power bank with USB-C PD output (minimum 18–30 W for fast-phone charging, 45–65 W for laptops). Avoid pass-through charging if you want longer battery life and safer operation.
For connectivity, buy either an eSIM from providers such as Airalo or a local prepaid SIM from major carriers (Vodafone/Orange/T-Mobile) depending on length of stay; EU roaming rules usually apply within EU member states, but the UK and Switzerland differ. Estimate data needs: 5–10 GB/week for map navigation and messaging, 20–30 GB/week if streaming. Carry a small unlocked hotspot or a second cheap SIM as a fallback.
Offline maps: preload vector maps with routing using OsmAnd or HERE WeGo and download Google Maps offline areas for cities you’ll visit. Export walking, hiking or cycling routes as GPX and save to your phone and an offline app; also save key timetables and station maps PDF to offline storage.
Backups: apply the 3-2-1 rule adapted for travel – two copies plus one offsite. Keep originals on your device, nightly encrypted backup on a portable SSD (e.g., Samsung T7 Shield) with hardware or VeraCrypt encryption, and an encrypted cloud copy (incremental backup on Wi‑Fi only). Use a password manager (Bitwarden/1Password) and enable two-factor authentication; carry a hardware security key (YubiKey) if accounts support it. Configure photo apps to upload only on trusted Wi‑Fi to avoid burning data.
Security on public Wi‑Fi: use a trusted paid VPN, disable auto-join of networks, and use USB data blockers for public charging stations to prevent data theft. Keep spare microSD cards for camera overflow and a small OTG card reader for fast offloads to the SSD. Store the SSD and a paper list of critical account recovery codes in a separate bag from your main electronics.
Toiletries and medical kit: prescriptions, common meds, wound care and sanitary supplies
Carry prescription medication in original pharmacy containers plus a signed physician letter listing generic names, daily dose and diagnosis; keep paper and email copies, store them in a waterproof pouch in your carry-on.
Prescriptions, legal paperwork and storage
Bring a supply for the planned duration plus a 7–14 day buffer; many countries allow up to a 90-day personal supply but controlled substances (stimulants, some pain meds, codeine) require advance clearance from consular/health authorities–obtain a letter on official letterhead naming active ingredients and quantities. Keep prescriptions with you; do not pack primary meds in checked luggage. Scan copies to cloud and to a separate email account. If you must temporarily leave bags with medication, use reputable left-luggage services (example: best luggage storage options in rome), but avoid leaving prescription bottles unattended.
Medication list, quantities and wound/sanitary supplies
| Item | Suggested qty / size | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Prescription meds | Full course + 7–14 days | Original label, physician letter, generic names |
| Ibuprofen | 200–400 mg, 20–30 tablets | For pain/inflammation; take with food |
| Paracetamol (acetaminophen) | 500 mg, 20 tablets | Alternate with NSAID for fever/pain; follow max daily dose |
| Antihistamine (cetirizine or loratadine) | 10 mg, 10 tablets | Daily dose for allergic reactions |
| Anti-diarrheal (loperamide) | 2 mg, 12 tablets | For short-term symptomatic relief |
| Oral rehydration sachets | 6–10 sachets | Use with water for dehydration from diarrhea |
| Antacid / PPI (as needed) | Small pack (10–14 doses) | Choose based on prior tolerance |
| Single-course antibiotic (by prescription) | As prescribed (1 course) | Ask physician about regionally appropriate options for severe bacterial gastroenteritis |
| Antiseptic wipes or povidone-iodine | 10–20 wipes | Clean wounds before dressing |
| Antibiotic ointment (small tube, 10–15 g) | 1 tube | Apply after cleaning minor cuts |
| Sterile adhesive dressings (assorted) | 10–20 pieces | Multiple sizes for small cuts |
| Sterile gauze pads (4×4) | 6–8 pads | For larger wounds |
| Adhesive tape | 1 small roll | Secure gauze |
| Elastic bandage (e.g., 7.5 cm) | 1 | Sprains, support |
| Blister plasters & moleskin | 6–10 plasters, 10×10 cm moleskin | Prevent and treat hot spots |
| Tweezers, small scissors, safety pins | 1 each | Tweezers for splinters; scissors for dressings |
| Digital thermometer | 1 small | Oral/axillary readings |
| Hydrocortisone 1% cream | 15 g tube | Itch and mild allergic dermatitis |
| Aloe vera gel / after-sun | 30–50 ml | Sunburn relief |
| Sunscreen SPF 30+ | 50 ml | Broad-spectrum; refill as needed |
| Insect bite relief (antihistamine gel) | Small tube | Reduce itch/swelling |
| Condoms | 3–6 | Safe sex supplies |
| Menstrual supplies | 5 tampons + 3 pads or menstrual cup | Bring preferred brand/size; some locations have limited choices |
| Contact lens solution / spare case | Small bottle | Carry spare pair of glasses |
| Hand sanitizer (alcohol-based) | 100 ml | Use before wound care if soap/water unavailable |
Wound care protocol: rinse wound under running water for 1–2 minutes, clean with antiseptic wipe, apply antibiotic ointment, cover with sterile dressing and change daily or when soiled. For blisters: if small and painless, leave intact; if tense and painful, sterilize needle, drain parallel to skin, leave roof intact and cover with blister plaster.
Allergy emergency: those with prior anaphylaxis should carry two epinephrine auto-injectors and a written action plan from their physician. Store injectors at recommended temperatures and check expiry dates.
Protect liquids and papers from rain with a waterproof pouch and keep daily meds in your carry-on; a compact umbrella helps during sudden storms (best compact wind resistant golf umbrella).
