Guide To Packing For Autumn In Europe: A Complete Packing List

Autumn is my favourite time to travel in Europe. The summer crowds have long left, the foliage turns into beautiful shades of crimson and persimmon, and the overcast skies really make the colourful architecture pop.

As a traveller, you can also find better deals on flights and accommodations, plus queues to popular attractions tend to be so much shorter, which is always a plus!

Packing for autumn in Europe is also a lot of fun because the cooler temperatures mean you have more pieces and accessories to play with, and who doesn’t want to get dolled up in Europe?

Today I thought I’d share a girl’s packing list for autumn in Europe (sorry boys!) to ensure you have all your essentials to stay stylish and warm.

Packing for Europe in Autumn

Dress: I find that I like to wear more dresses than pants when I’m in Europe, so I’ll usually pack 2-3 in neutral tones that can work with different jackets and accessories.

Skirt: I also like to bring a mix of skirts in different lengths (above the knee and below the knee) that can work for either day or evening.

Jeans: One pair in a dark navy shade or black should be good enough.

Jackets: I would suggest going with 2 jackets: one longer knee-length jacket for cooler days (the wool ones are a nice way to dress things up), and one lighter waist-length jacket for days when the sun is out.

Shirts: A mix of 2-3 long sleeves for cooler days, and 2-3 short sleeves that you can wear with a cardigan on warmer days.

Cardigan: Something in a dark or neutral colour that can work with the shirts you’re bringing.

Knit sweaters: A mix of 2-3 in different lengths and patterns. Make sure they’re not so bulky that they don’t fit under your jacket of choice.

Footwear for Europe in Autumn

Boots: First up, choose comfortable walking boots that you’ve already worn in. There’s nothing worse than trying to break in a new pair of boots when you’re out sightseeing. You could either go with knee-high boots or ankle boots.

Casual shoe: I also like to bring one pair of comfortable walking shoes that I can fall back on if my feet need a break. These could be flats or your favourite pair of Converse shoes.

Dressy shoe: Not necessarily a must since you can always dress up your boots for evening, but Oxford pumps are pretty cute.

Socks: I pack a mix of thick wool socks to wear with boots, and no show socks to wear with dress shoes (you can either get to super thin ones in a neutral tone or go for something slightly thicker).

Accessories for Autumn Travel in Europe

Sunglasses: I get my sunglasses from SmartBuyGlasses and they have a designer section with lots of different styles to browse.

Jewelry: I think dainty gold pieces look nice, but it’s all about what you normally wear and feel comfortable in.

Scarf: Mornings and evenings can be a bit chilly, so a scarf is always a good idea.

Gloves: Fingerless gloves work well for autumn or you could also go with neutral leather gloves for something slightly dressier.

Handbag: I try to keep my purse on the smaller side of things, because I know that I’ll otherwise fill it up. Make sure you’re able to fit your wallet, camera, phone, and any other must-haves. I’m really into saddlebags at the moment.

Umbrella: A small but durable travel sized umbrella. This one hardly takes up any space, plus it’s great to have on hand for those unexpected rainy days.

Hat: I really like to wear felt hats in autumn, but you could also pack a tuque for something a little more sporty.

Pantyhose: If you’re packing dresses and skirts, you’ll also want to bring tights. I usually just bring 2: one knitted pair with a pattern and another in opaque black.

Bathing suit: Just because it’s cold out doesn’t mean that you can’t use the hotel pool!

Undergarments: Whatever you normally wear back home! Try to pack 1 week’s worth of bras and undies, and then you can wash those as you go.

Autumn-in-Europe Wardrobe: Mix-and-Match Planner, Weather Info & Outfit Ideas

Capsule Formula (10–14 pieces = 30+ outfits)

Pick one color story so everything plays nicely: think camel + black + cream with one accent (burgundy, forest, or navy). Then use this formula:

• Tops (5): 2 long-sleeve tees, 1 short-sleeve tee, 1 blouse, 1 lightweight turtleneck.
• Knits (2–3): 1 fine crewneck, 1 chunky cardigan, optional cropped sweater vest.
• Bottoms (3): 1 dark denim, 1 midi skirt, 1 tailored trouser or ponte legging.
• Dresses (2): 1 day-to-night knit dress + 1 slip or shirt dress.
• Outerwear (2): 1 trench/water-resistant hip-length jacket + 1 wool coat or insulated shacket.
• Shoes (2–3): waterproof ankle boots, comfy sneaker or city walker, optional dressy flat/low heel.
• Accessories: 2 scarves (1 blanket, 1 silk), tights (sheer + opaque), leather gloves, hat/beret/beanie, sunglasses, minimal jewelry.

Weather Cheats by Region (Typical Autumn Ranges)

Rule of thumb: Dress like an onion—thin layers you can peel off when the sun appears.

Row-by-Row Outfit Planner (10 Days)

Use this as a template—swap in your own colors and pieces. Everything below comes from the capsule above.

Fabrics That Win in Fall

• Merino wool (base layers, socks): warm when damp, odor-resistant, thin enough to layer.
• Modal/viscose blends (dresses/tees): drape that looks dressy, dries faster than cotton.
• Tencel/lyocell trousers: soft, breathable, better for Mediterranean days.
• Wool-blend coats (60–70% wool): real warmth without Michelin Man bulk.
• Water-resistant trenches with a removable liner: two jackets in one.
• Leather or vegan-leather boots with grippy rubber soles: city-proof.

Skip: Heavy cotton hoodies (slow dry), brand-new shoes (blisters), and anything that needs dry cleaning.

Footwear Strategy (and Happy-Feet Math)

Bring two workhorses (boots + walker) and one nice-to-have (dressy flat). That’s it.

• Break-in period: wear each pair on 3–4 city walks before your trip.
• Insoles: pack low-profile gel insoles; swap midday if arches tire.
• Socks: 2 merino, 2 cotton, 1 sheer. Rotate to keep feet dry.
• Care: quick wipe at night; stuff with paper if soaked; never put boots on hotel radiators (warps leather).

Beauty & Toiletries (TSA-friendly)

Skincare (decant to 100 ml/3.4 oz or less): balm cleanser, hydrating toner mist, vitamin C or niacinamide serum, moisturizer, SPF 30+ even under clouds, lip balm.

Makeup (edit to a 5-minute face): light base or tinted SPF, brow gel, cream blush, mascara, one signature lip (berry/nude).

Hair: travel brush, foldable mini straightener or curling wand (EU voltage-ready), dry shampoo, elastics/clips.

Body: mini body cream, razor, deodorant, solid fragrance (spill-proof).

Health: blister kit (hydrocolloid plasters), ibuprofen/paracetamol, throat lozenges, mini hand gel, saline eye drops.

Pack order: liquids in a clear 1-liter bag at the top of your personal item for breezy security lines.What Not to Pack (Autumn Edition)

• Bulky parka unless you’re truly Alpine-bound.
• Six pairs of shoes (two + one is the sweet spot).
• High-maintenance fabrics (silk skirts can work, silk blouses often wrinkle).
• Umbrella the size of a lamppost. Travel-size wins.
• “Just in case” outfits you don’t love at home—you won’t wear them abroad.

10-Day Autumn Capsule — Quick Checklist

Clothing (fit your color story):
☐ 2 dresses • ☐ 3 bottoms • ☐ 5 tops • ☐ 2–3 knits • ☐ trench • ☐ wool coat
☐ tights (sheer + opaque) • ☐ 7–9 undies • ☐ 2–3 bras (1 sports optional) • ☐ sleepwear

Shoes:
☐ ankle boots • ☐ city walker/sneakers • ☐ dressy flat/heel

Accessories:
☐ blanket scarf • ☐ silk scarf • ☐ gloves • ☐ hat • ☐ sunglasses • ☐ minimal jewelry • ☐ compact umbrella • ☐ crossbody

Toiletries & Health:
☐ 1-L liquids kit • ☐ makeup edit • ☐ hair tools (EU-ready) • ☐ meds & blister kit • ☐ laundry soap/strips • ☐ mini sewing kit & safety pins

Tech & Docs:
☐ universal adaptor • ☐ power bank • ☐ charging cables • ☐ e-SIM or roaming plan • ☐ passport + copies • ☐ travel insurance details

Final Autumn in Europe Style Notes

• Layer light to heavy: tee → knit → trench/wool coat. You’ll be ready for surprise sunshine and sneaky breezes.
• Mind the floors: many European sidewalks are cobbled—low, block heels or flat boots keep ankles happy.
• Respectful dress codes: for churches/monasteries, carry the silk scarf and opaque tights; shoulders and knees covered = smooth entry.
• Wash as you go and repeat outfits with different scarves and lips—European chic is about re-styling, not over-packing.

Travel in Europe: Autumn Packing & Wardrobe FAQs

1) What color palette works best for an autumn capsule so everything mixes and matches?

Lean into a tight palette of 3–4 neutrals + 1–2 accents so every top pairs with every bottom. Neutrals like black, camel, navy, charcoal, cream are perfect for Europe’s moody fall light and look polished in photos. Then add two accents (think burgundy, forest green, rust, or denim blue) for scarves or knitwear. Pick one metal (gold or silver) for jewelry and bag hardware so accessories automatically coordinate. If you’ll be in multiple regions, keep outerwear neutral (black or camel) so it works with all outfits and settings—from cobblestones to candlelit wine bars.

2) How many pieces do I actually need for a 10–12 day trip?

A compact, repeat-friendly formula keeps luggage light and outfits fresh:

• Tops (6–7): 3 long-sleeves, 2 short-sleeves, 1–2 thin knits.
• Layers (3–4): 1 cardigan, 1 lightweight sweater, 1 blazer or shacket, 1 coat.
• Bottoms (3): dark jeans, tailored trouser or midi skirt, casual skirt.
• Dresses (1–2): one day-to-night midi; one long-sleeve knit dress.
• Shoes (2–3): weatherproof ankle boots, comfy sneakers/flats, optional dressier shoe.
• Accessories: 2 scarves, gloves, hat/beret, tights.
  Rewear layers, rotate scarves, and plan sink-laundry once mid-trip for tees/undies. You’ll get 20+ outfits from this capsule without repeating the exact same look.

3) Trench or wool coat—if I can only pack one, which is more versatile?

Pick based on forecast and latitude.

• Wool (knee-length, lined): Best for Northern/Central Europe (Paris, Amsterdam, Berlin, Edinburgh) when evenings drop to single digits °C. It dresses up instantly for museums and dinner, and photographs beautifully.
• Trench (with removable liner or insulated vest): Best for UK/Ireland + coastal cities with changeable rain/wind. The shell blocks drizzle; layer a thin down vest underneath for warmth.
  If you’re visiting multiple climates, a water-resistant wool blend (or a trench + packable down vest) covers the most scenarios.

4) What fabrics keep me warm without bulk (and still look polished)?

Choose light, insulating layers that breathe and resist odors:

• Merino wool (150–250 gsm): base tees and thin crewnecks—warm, odor-resistant, dressy under blazers.
• Modal/Tencel: silky long-sleeves that layer smoothly under knits.
• Wool-cashmere blends: refined warmth for scarves/sweaters without chunky weight.
• Tech ponte or twill trousers: hold shape, comfy for trains and long walks.
  Skip bulky acrylic and oversized puffer unless you’re heading to the Alps—thin layers + a good coat beat bulk every time.

5) Which two pairs of shoes cover cobblestones, rain, and a dressy dinner?

• Weatherproof ankle boots (low block heel or flat, rubber-soled): walkable on slick stones; pair with dresses and jeans.
• Leather or leather-look sneakers (supportive insole): all-day sightseeing that still feels city-smart; choose neutral white/cream or black.
  Add foldable flats only if you have a special event. Break shoes in at home; pack Blister Band-Aids, thin wool socks, and a travel-size waterproofing spray for a quick refresh.

6) Do I need waterproof boots, or will a spray-on protector be enough?

If your itinerary includes Scotland/Ireland/Norway or you expect heavy rain, choose true waterproof or water-resistant boots with sealed seams. For Paris/Rome/Barcelona where showers are shorter, a quality leather boot treated with a protector spray is usually sufficient. Either way, pack two pairs so shoes can rest and dry between days, and rotate merino socks (they keep feet warm even if damp).

7) How should I adjust this list for different regions?

• Nordics & Scotland/UK: add thermal tights, a beanie that covers ears, and a windproof compact umbrella.
• Mediterranean (Lisbon, Rome, Barcelona, Athens): swap one sweater for a breton tee, bring lighter scarf, and choose a trench + vest over heavy wool.
• Alpine stops (Munich, Salzburg, Swiss towns): add thin down vest, heavier tights, and grippier soles for chilly mornings.
• Eastern/Central Europe (Prague, Budapest): evenings can be crisp—pack opaque tights and a second warm knit.

8) Carry-on limits! How do I manage toiletries, hair tools, and makeup?

• Liquids: decant into 100 ml travel bottles; store all liquids in one quart-sized zip pouch for security.
• Hair tools: bring dual-voltage devices (check the switch), plus a Type C/F/G plug adapter depending on country; use a heat-resistant sleeve so you can pack while warm.
• Makeup: a tight edit—skin tint or foundation stick, concealer, cream blush, brow gel, mascara, one neutral shadow, one lipstick. Cream formulas do double-duty and travel better.
• Skincare: minis of cleanser, moisturizer, SPF, plus one hydrating mask for flights.
  This keeps you within carry-on and avoids voltage drama abroad.

9) What’s the easiest sink-laundry routine so I can pack fewer clothes?

• Choose quick-dry fabrics for tees/undies (merino, microfiber).
• Wash in the sink with a solid detergent bar or travel sachet.
• Roll in a towel and press to remove excess water.
• Hang on a portable travel clothesline (door hinge to shower rod) or a hotel hanger.
• Rotate pieces so one set air-dries overnight while you wear the others.
  Bonus: bring two pairs of tights and 3–4 pairs of merino socks—they wash and dry quickly and dramatically extend outfits.

10) Any anti-theft tips for handbags, phones, and passports in busy centers?

• Use a zippered crossbody that sits in front; bonus if it has locking zips and slash-resistant straps.
• Keep phone in a wrist strap case or crossbody lanyard when shooting photos.
• Carry one card + small cash in a front pocket; leave backup cards and passport locked at your accommodation (carry a photocopy or digital copy).
• Be extra mindful around transport hubs, markets, and major sights.
• Avoid placing bags on chair backs; loop your bag strap around your leg/ankle in cafés.

11) Can you share a simple 10-day outfit plan that doesn’t feel repetitive?

Absolutely—mix around these anchors:

• Days 1–2 (City strolls): jeans + striped tee + trench, sneakers by day; swap to ankle boots + scarf by night.
• Days 3–4 (Museums/tea): midi skirt + merino knit + wool coat; tights + boots.
• Days 5–6 (Day trip): ponte trousers + long-sleeve modal tee + cardigan + scarf; sneakers.
• Days 7–8 (Old town + dinner): knit midi dress + blazer + ankle boots; add statement earrings.
• Days 9–10 (Parks/markets): jeans + lightweight sweater + shacket; sneakers or boots depending on weather.
  Change scarves/jewelry and swap outer layer to keep outfits fresh in photos.

12) Any cultural or dress-code notes I should pack for (churches, dining, theaters)?

• Religious sites: bring a scarf to cover shoulders; aim for covered knees (midi skirt/dress or trousers). Tights under shorter skirts work in a pinch.
• Dining: “smart casual” rules—dark jeans or trousers + blouse/knit + boots look right almost everywhere.
• Theater/classical concerts: add a blazer or silk scarf, and switch to sleek ankle boots or foldable flats.
• Thermal comfort vs. style: Europeans do love a put-together look, but warmth wins—layer neatly and you’ll fit right in.

What are your must haves when it comes to packing list for autumn in Europe?