Deciding what to pack for a European backpacking trip is one of the most important decisions you’ll make and will help make you have a successful and enjoyable trip. For the majority of your trip you’ll be carrying everything you pack on your back, so you want to ensure all your belongings are as light, small and compact as possible, only taking the bare minimum of clothing and supplies.

Due to the amount of time you will spend with it, probably the most important item for your backpacking trip is the backpack itself. Ensure the backpack fits well and is comfortable before purchasing. It should also have some straps around your stomach to take some strain of the shoulders/back.

The clothing you take on your trip will have a big impact on the weight of your backpack so only take basic items that you will use on a regular basis, and if travelling with a companion try and double up on equipment where possible. Always pack with your destination in mind, considering the average temperature of each area you plan on visiting and choose your clothing accordingly. If your trip will last for more than one season, remember to pack extra layers for cooler months.

Begin with two pairs of pants. Combat trousers, such as those worn by the army are good as they have plenty of pockets which are easily accessible when you’re on the road. Trousers that separate into shorts are great for decreasing weight, if not you will also want at least a one pair of shorts depending on your destination. Pack two or three t-shirts and a couple sweatshirts. You can always purchase more clothes on your travels, so don’t worry about not packing enough. These purchases also provide great souvenirs. Remember to pack 3 or 4 pairs of underwear, swimming gear, and some pyjamas to sleep in.

Make sure you have a comfortable pair of hiking shoes. These will be your primary footwear on the trip, so remember a couple pairs of thick socks as well, these should help prevent rubbing. You will also want a light pair of sandals or flip-flops for hostel showers and a pair of smarter shoes for going out. Make use of the space wasted by any shoes you pack by filling the insides with small items such as socks or deodorant.

European hostels provide bathrooms with showers, as well as decent laundry facilities. Most hostels do not offer towels, though, so bring along a small towel designed for carrying. It’s now possible to get very lightweight towels that dry very quickly, and should be used where possible.You will also want a small set of toiletry items, like soap, toothpaste, shampoo, toothpaste, and deodorant. A wash cloth or sponge may be useful to remember as well. Most hostels do have vending machines for laundry detergent and it may be easier to buy this as you go along rather than carrying it around.

Remember to make photocopies of all your important documents like passports and any important medical information, and keep these copies separate to the originals. It is sometimes sensible to swap photocopies with a travelling companion as a backup. Secure all credit and debit cards, traveller’s checks, and other valuable items in locked sections of your backpack, and don’t forget to pack an adequate first aid kit. A few other items you will want to be sure to remember are a camera with memory card, a good, detailed guide book, and plenty of sun tan lotions.

Most backpackers who have travelled through Europe come back and realize they packed way too much, and only used half their kit – make sure this doesn’t happen to you! The lighter your pack is the more fun you will have on your trip, so only pack the things that you know you will need. Remember, you can always buy anything you forget.

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