What fall weather to expect
Fall weather in Europe varies by region and month. September can still feel like summer in the south, while October and November are cooler and wetter in much of Northern and Western Europe. Mountain areas and the far north can see snow early. Evenings are usually cooler than daytime, and the weather can change within a day.
Because of that, plan for layers and rain rather than a single outfit. Check a forecast for each stop a week before departure.
A simple layering system
Layers let you adjust to temperature changes without bringing a lot of clothes.
- Base layer: t-shirts, long-sleeve tops or thin merino or synthetic layers.
- Mid layer: a sweater, fleece or light cardigan.
- Outer layer: a water-resistant jacket or a light coat. A packable down or synthetic jacket helps for colder places.
- Accessories: a scarf, which also adds warmth and style, and a light hat or gloves if you are heading to the mountains or the north.
Neutral colors that mix and match make it easier to bring fewer items.
Shoes
You will probably walk many kilometers a day, often on cobblestones, so shoes matter.
- Comfortable walking shoes or sneakers, already broken in before you leave.
- Water-resistant shoes or boots if rain is likely. Leather boots or treated sneakers work for many travelers.
- One lighter pair for evenings or warmer days, if space allows.
Bring socks that dry quickly, and avoid new shoes on a long walking trip.
Rain gear
- A lightweight waterproof or water-resistant jacket with a hood. In many cities umbrellas are common, but wind can make them inconvenient.
- A compact travel umbrella, which fits in a daypack.
- A water-resistant daypack or a rain cover, and a small dry bag or zip bag for electronics and documents.
Sample two-week list
This assumes access to a washer or sink laundry once or twice. Adjust to your climate and itinerary.
Clothing
- 5 to 6 tops (mix of short and long sleeve)
- 2 to 3 bottoms (jeans or travel pants)
- 1 sweater or fleece
- 1 light jacket or rain jacket
- 1 extra warm layer if heading north or into the mountains
- 7 pairs of underwear and socks (or fewer if you plan to wash)
- Sleepwear
- 1 scarf
Shoes
- 1 comfortable walking pair
- 1 water-resistant or alternate pair
Toiletries and health
- Prescription medicine in original packaging, plus a copy of prescriptions
- Small first aid items, sunscreen, lip balm and travel-size toiletries
Documents and tech
- Passport (check validity rules for your destination) and copies of key documents
- Phone, charger and a power bank
- Plug adapter for your destination country (check which plug type applies)
- Payment cards, and some cash for small purchases
The 5-4-3-2-1 rule
The 5-4-3-2-1 rule is a popular packing shortcut, but versions differ. A common version is 5 tops, 4 bottoms, 3 pairs of shoes, 2 accessories and 1 hat or bag. Some versions use different categories. Treat it as a starting framework and adjust for fall weather: you will likely want an extra layer, and you may only need two pairs of shoes for a light trip.
Carry-on tips and laundry
Many travelers pack for two weeks in a carry-on to avoid lost luggage and to move easily on trains. Our guide to packing for a month goes deeper on a carry-on system. Rick Steves is widely known for advocating light packing in a single carry-on, with fewer clothes and regular laundry. If you do this:
- Check your airline’s carry-on size and weight limits, which differ, especially on budget carriers.
- Use packing cubes or compression bags.
- Wear your bulkiest items on the plane.
- Plan to wash clothes once a week, using a self-service laundry, a hotel laundry service, or a sink wash with quick-dry items.
Extras worth considering
- A reusable water bottle
- A small day bag with a zipper, to deter pickpockets
- Offline maps downloaded in advance
- Travel insurance information
When planning the route itself, see our guide to planning a 2 week trip to Europe, and for ideas about where to go in the shoulder season, see the top Europe destinations.