Escape the Aussie Winter: Your Ultimate Euro Summer Checklist

Travel Documents

Before you even think about packing your sunscreen, make sure your travel documents are in order: 

• Passport: Ensure it's valid for at least six months beyond your return date. 
• Visas: Check if you need a visa for the countries you plan to visit. The Schengen Area has specific rules. When in doubt, check out Passport Index to check on your visa requirements. 
• Travel Insurance: Don’t leave home without considering travel insurance. Fast Cover offers policies that can cover many things from unexpected overseas medical emergencies to lost luggage. Get your quote here. 
• International Driving Permit: If you're planning to hire a car, many European countries require an International Driving Permit (IDP) alongside your Australian driver’s license. It’s also worth noting that nearly all European countries drive on the right side of the road. 
• Copies of Important Documents: Keep digital and physical copies of your passport, travel insurance policy, and any bookings separately from the originals. 

Health and Safety

Your health and safety should always be your top priorities: 

• Vaccinations: Check if any vaccinations are required or recommended for your destinations. The Australian Government's Smart Traveller website is a great resource. 
• Medications: Pack enough prescription medication for your trip, along with a copy of your prescription. 
• Health Insurance Card: If you’re an Australian citizen, get a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for emergency healthcare. You should also take your Medicare card with you, as some countries have reciprocal healthcare arrangements with Australia. 
• Health Kit: Include prescription medications in their original packaging, a basic first-aid kit, sunscreen, and insect repellent. Remember to pack any necessary vaccination documentation if required. 

Packing Essentials

Travel light - but smart: 

• Clothing: Think layers. Pack versatile pieces that you can mix and match. Don’t forget a hat, sunglasses, and swimwear. For summer travel, lightweight clothing with a light jacket for cooler evenings; for winter, warm layers and a good quality coat. 
• Tech Gear: A universal power adapter, portable charger, and travel-sized toiletries. Europe has a variety of electrical outlets. A universal travel adapter is essential for charging devices. It’s also handy to bring a portable power bank for long days out, especially if you plan on using your GPS a lot. 
• Travel Comforts: A neck pillow, eye mask, and earplugs for those long flights or train rides. 
• Day Pack: A lightweight backpack for day trips and excursions. 
• Travel Essentials: Sunglasses, sunscreen, a reusable water bottle (tap water is drinkable in most parts of Europe), and a sturdy backpack for day trips. Pro tip: if you plan on visiting a lot of museums with audio tours, consider packing your own earphones. 
• Entertainment: Long train rides across Europe are perfect for catching up on reading, so bring a Kindle or a few books. Again, don’t forget headphones and download music, podcasts, and movies. 

Money Matters

Managing your finances while travelling: 

• Credit/Debit Cards: Notify your bank about your travel plans to avoid any issues. Some banks will let you notify them on their app, which can save you time. 
• Cash: Have some local currency for the first few days. ATMs are widely available, but it’s good to be prepared. 
• Travel Cards: Consider a travel money card to avoid foreign transaction fees. Check out options like the Wise Travel Card.

Accommodation

Booking the right place to stay can make or break your trip: 

• Research: Read reviews and compare prices. Websites like Booking.com and Airbnb offer great options. 

• Location: Choose accommodations that are central to the attractions you want to visit. 
• Booking Confirmation: Keep copies of your booking confirmations, either printed or saved on your phone. 

Communication

Stay connected with family and friends: 

• SIM Card: Get a local SIM card or an international roaming plan to avoid hefty phone bills. Always check roaming charges with your Australian mobile provider and consider purchasing a European SIM card or eSIM for data and calls overseas. Check out options like Holafly eSIM. 
• Apps: Download essential travel apps like Google Maps, a translation app, and a weather forecast app. Many apps also work offline and have the option to snap a photo for translation. 

Itinerary and Activities

Plan but be flexible: 

• Must-See Sights: Make a list of must-visit attractions and book tickets in advance where possible. Check out our European Travel Guide for further detail on key destinations, helpful safety and travel tips. 
• Local Experiences: Don’t miss out on local markets, food tours, and cultural festivals. 
• Relaxation Time: Schedule some downtime to relax and soak in the atmosphere. 
• Accommodation and Transportation Bookings: Pre-book your accommodations and transport where possible so that you can maximise your options. Look into rail passes like Eurail for multi-country visits, which can save money and offer flexibility. 
• Local Research: Understand local customs and any current travel advisories. Knowing a bit about local etiquette, like greeting customs or restaurant tipping, is also useful. 
• Sustainability Practices: Europe is increasingly eco-conscious. Bring a reusable shopping bag and consider travelling by train instead of flying to reduce your carbon footprint. Many regional trains offer stunning scenery. 

Packing Tips to Maximise Space

Make the most of your luggage: 

• Rolling vs. Folding: Roll your clothes to save space and reduce wrinkles. Packing cubes can also help organise and compress your items. 
• Dual-Purpose Items: Pack items that serve more than one purpose, like a scarf that can be used as a wrap, blanket, or a makeshift beach towel. 
• Limit Shoes: Shoes can take up valuable space. Limit yourself to three pairs: comfortable walking shoes, casual/smart shoes, and sandals or flip-flops, depending on the season. 
• Snacks: Pack some Australian snacks to cure homesickness and save on buying expensive treats at tourist spots. 

• Leave Room for Souvenirs: Keep some space in your luggage or backpack for the treasures you’ll want to bring home. Consider packing an extra foldable bag if you plan to shop a lot. 

When packing for a holiday, it’s easy to get carried away in the excitement and overpack. Click here for our tips to help cut down on your luggage weight & save you money!