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In today’s post we’re going to dive into the perfect packing list for Europe in fall for backpackers.

I have been all over Europe during the fall months and have suffered because I either overpacked, brought the wrong items, or forgot to bring something.

In this post you will learn what essentials, clothing, footwear, accessories, and electronics a backpacker should pack for a Europe trip in autumn.

You won’t want to be caught without any of these items while you’re backpacking through Europe in the autumn.

Let’s get right into the ultimate men’s packing list for Europe in fall!

Going to Europe in Fall

My favorite time to visit Europe is in fall.

September and October are the perfect time to travel to Europe. The weather is great (not too hot, not too cold), there are fewer crowds than summer, and you get to see the wonderful fall foliage.

Deciding what to pack for Europe in autumn can be tricky, and as a solo backpacker I try to avoid overpacking.

Lucky for you, I know exactly what to bring.

This list is designed for male backpackers going to Europe. There are items on here women should bring, too.

Everything listed on this packing list for Europe fits comfortably in my Osprey Farpoint 40 and leaves room to spare for anything I pick up along the way.

One thing to keep in mind while you’re backpacking through Europe is that you will have to do laundry.

With that in mind, don’t overpack or try to bring clothes for a new outfit each day. That’s totally unnecessary.

I only pack enough clothes to wear for 4-5 days and that works incredibly well.

Here’s what you’re going to want to bring with you for a fall trip to Europe.

What to Pack for Europe in Fall

Essential Items to Pack for Europe

There are certain items you need to bring with you on every international trip, no matter the time of year or where you’re going.

These are those things you better not leave home without.

Passport

You’re not going to be able to go anywhere without your passport.

Doublecheck your bag before you head to the airport to make sure you have it packed somewhere safe.

Copies of Important Documents

Certain cities and countries are ripe with pickpocketers.

I was pickpocketed in Madrid this past Spring. It sucked.

However, I had scans of all my important documents printed out and in my bag. I also uploaded digital copies to my Google Drive for easy access.

You will want to have copies of your passport, travel insurance, and credit cards.

This is very important, and you have to do it.

Cash and Credit Cards

If you are traveling internationally, you will need the currency of that country and credit cards with no foreign transaction fees.

Do not get cash from a foreign currency exchange counter.

I highly recommend getting a Charles Schwab checking account and using their debit card.

There are no foreign transaction fees or ATM fees.

Once you are in a country, use the Charles Schwab debit card at an ATM to withdraw money and you’re all set.

Click on this link if you want a free $100 for opening up a Charles Schwab checking account!

For credit cards, I recommend the Capital One Venture card.

You get 2% miles on every purchase (to use on any travel expenses) and no foreign transaction fees.

New cardmembers also receive 50,000 bonus miles after you spend $3,000 in the first 3 months.

Also, split up your cash and credit cards so you are not carrying them all with you.

Always have a backup credit card and cash hidden away in your bag in case you lose your wallet.

READ MORE: The 21 Best Travel Apps You’re Not Using (But Should)

Itineraries and Directions

I like to create a basic itinerary for every trip I do that includes where I’m staying and how to get there.

Then, I save this in my Google Drive and print out a copy to have on my person in my bag, just in case I’m in an area with no reception and can’t access my Drive.

I also email a copy of this to my family and a couple friends, just so they know where I will be.

Visas (If Needed)

Though most European countries do not require a visa to enter (such as being from the United States, Canada, and Australia), it is best to check the entrance requirements before your trip.

Register with the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)

Go online and register with STEP through the US Department of State.

After signing up and entering in your travel information, they will email you with any safety and security information needed for the places you’re going. You will also learn where the closest US Embassy or Consulate are to where you’re staying.

It’s an added safety step I do for every trip and it is totally worth the 5 minutes it takes to set everything up.

Get Travel Insurance

I always travel with travel insurance.

You never know when an emergency will strike, and you want to be prepared for when it does.

Travel insurance will cover you for trip cancellations, emergency medical expenses and transportation, lost or stolen luggage, if your passport is stolen, and emergency dental work.

I highly recommend using World Nomads travel insurance.

They have great rates, really good 24/7 customer service, awesome reviews, and is available to people from over 130 countries.

The Best Backpack for Traveling in Europe

My favorite travel backpack is the Osprey Farpoint 40.

It is comfortable, durable, easy to pack (the top zips open all the way for easy top loading), and comes in a variety of colors.

The Farpoint 40 also fits in the overhead compartment of every airline in Europe, even the budget airlines.

Osprey is an amazing company that gives a lifetime warrantee on their products, too.

I lost one of the lumbar straps on my Farpoint 40 and they sent a free replacement set with no questions asked.

Osprey has earned my business for life.

Compression Sacks or Packing Cubes

The best way to cut down space in your backpack is by using compression sacks or packing cubes.

I never travel without using one or the other.

Usually, I use the compression sacks. I find they create much more open space than packing cubes in my bag.

They do get clothes a little wrinkled, whereas the packing cubes don’t.

You really can’t go wrong with either.

Tops/Layers Packing List for Europe in Fall

The key to traveling in Europe during the fall is having clothes that you can mix and match to make a variety of outfits.

Europeans dress a little sharper than in the US, though not completely business casual.

Their clothes also tend to be a little slimmer, so you will see a lot of skinny-fit and fitted tops.

You are going to want to choose dark and neutral colors when you pack for autumn in Europe.

Dark and neutral colors (like black, grey, blue, beige, and brown) go well together and are better at hiding stains.

Another thing you have to do in Europe during the fall is dress in layers.

4 T-Shirts

You want to be comfortable while you’re traveling around Europe.

Pack your favorite shirts or ones you think will look nice. Just keep in mind that Europeans don’t wear funny or cartoony shirts often.

Typically a solid color shirt or a shirt with a nice pattern (no Tommy Bahama shirts please) will work best.

Shirts like these from Gildan are what you want to bring.

1 Nice Button-up Shirt

Always bring 1 nice shirt for going out. I don’t feel you need any more than that, though.

I like this Calvin Klein Long Sleeve Button Down Shirt for the nights you want to dress up.

Also, one thing to keep in mind, black is a great color for going out. In fact, in Germany (Berlin especially) you always go out in a black shirt.

A Sweater or Pullover

Layers, layers, layers.

You have to wear layers when you visit Europe.

A nice sweater can not only add to your outfit, but it will make you hella comfortable when those cold winds start blowing.

I highly recommend getting a merino wool sweater, like this one from MERIWOOL.

You’ll see a trend here, but merino wool is the best for traveling.

Merino wool super soft, moisture wicking, odor resistant, and breathable. It’s simply the best material to wear when you travel.

1 Medium Weight Sweatshirt

There are few things more comfortable than a good hoodie.

Hoodies are perfect for flights, train rides, and well, just about anything.

I love this midweight zip hoodie by 32 Degrees.

It’s super comfortable, keeps you warm, and has zipper pockets. I love the zipper pockets because I can put valuables in there (or my passport at the airport) and not have to worry about them falling out or being stolen.

A Water-Resistant Jacket

The best travel jacket I have ever used is the Kühl Jetstream Jacket.

It is a lightweight rain jacket that is stylish, keeps you warm, and dries incredibly quick.

The right pocket also converts into a stuff sack, so the jacket takes up hardly any space at all.

READ MORE: The Best Travel Gifts for Men (36 Awesome Gift Ideas for Him)

Bottoms Packing List for Europe in Fall

As a guy, you don’t need to bring much as far as bottoms go for Europe in autumn.

The main thing you want to do is bring items that are durable and have dark or neutral colors that will go well with any top.

Here are my recommendations for bottoms to pack for Europe in the fall.

1 Pair of Jeans

As a solo guy traveling, you only need to bring 1 pair of jeans.

A good pair of jeans will go with every outfit you put together.

When they get dirty, wash them. Easy peasy.

Levi’s are my favorite brand of jeans. They are comfortable, durable, and come in a million colors and designs.

I especially like the Levi’s 559 Relaxed Straight Fit Jean.

My favorite part is probably the tiny bit of elastic they put in the waist band, which really helps out after a big night of feasting.

1 Pair of Board Shorts

You never know when the opportunity is going to come up to go swimming in a pool, lake, or the ocean.

Always be prepared.

I always pack a pair of boardshorts wherever I travel

I love my Hurley Phantom boardshorts so much!

They are stylish, comfortable, come in a wide variety of styles, and incredibly durable.

Hurley Phantom boardshorts are by far the best boardshorts I’ve ever owned.

4 Pair of Boxers or Boxer Briefs

I highly recommend getting a pair of merino wool boxer briefs, like these from MERIWOOL.

Merino wool is very soft, breathable, moisture wicking, and odor resistant.

These are all things you want in your underwear.

Merino wool is your best friend when traveling.

If you’re a boxer man, you can’t go wrong with Hanes Tartan Boxers.

There’s nothing flashy about them. They are just solid everyday boxers that will hold up over time and do the job they’re supposed to.

Water Resistant Pants (Optional)

One thing I have started packing on my trips to Europe are some water-resistant pants.

It’s going to rain while you’re visiting Europe in the autumn months. Sometimes a lot, sometimes not much.

Jeans soak up water and are the worst when it’s raining.

I now always pack my Eddie Bauer Adventure Trek Pants with me and these past 2 trips I’m super glad I did.

The pants are fast-drying, light, stylish, and super comfortable. The water just beads up and falls right off them!

The Adventure Trek pants are also great if you plan on doing any hiking during your trip.

READ MORE: Top Tips for Solo Female Travel Safety

Clothing Accessories to Bring to Europe in Fall

You have to be prepared for warm, mild, cold, and inclement weather during the fall in Europe.

These clothing accessories will have you ready for any weather or climate you encounter during an autumn in Europe.

1 Scarf

Layers are important when visiting Europe in fall, winter and spring (I hope you’re figuring out how important this is haha).

Every packing list for Europe in the fall should include a scarf.

During most of the autumn months, you will use a scarf daily.

I love this Bleu Nero scarf and always bring it with me to Europe.

The scarfs are made of soft and durable faux cashmere and are super comfortable.

They also come in several different styles to match whatever you bring.

1 Pair of Mittens

The last time I was in Europe I was kicking myself because I didn’t bring mittens.

A cold front came through and my hands were freezing.

Bring a solid pair of mittens, like these that allow you to still operate your phone, so you are comfortable in the cold weather.

4 Pair of Socks

I will never travel without merino wool socks again.

They are antimicrobial and make it so your feet don’t stink.

That’s exactly what you want when you’re on your feet a lot, especially when you’re staying in hostels.

I finally decided to try out the Darn Tough Merino Wool Micro Crew socks on my last trip to Europe earlier this year.

All I have to say is wow.

These were the most comfortable socks I’ve ever worn and feel they are well worth the extra price.

They also come with a lifetime guarantee.

These are by far the best merino wool socks on the market.

1 Pair of Compression Socks

Compression socks are a necessity for flights over 6 hours.

I use these Sooverki compression socks on all my long-haul flights and my legs always feel great when I land, with no discomfort or swelling.

A Hat or Visor

I always bring a hat or visor with me when I travel, just in case it’s super windy or sunny out.

My go-to is to bring a visor, because I can just strap it on to the handle of my backpack and it takes up no space in my bag.

Beanie

It will get cold and windy in Europe.

Bring a beanie to cover your noggin and keep your head and ears warm.

You should always bring a beanie with you to Europe in the fall, winter, and spring months.

I really like this MERIWOOL Merino Wool Beanie.

It comes in green, black, grey, navy and purple. It’s super lightweight, soft, not itchy, sweat wicking, and odor resistant because it’s made from merino wool.

Sunglasses

I always bring 2 pair of sunglasses with me, just in case I lose or damage 1 of them.

Also, different outfits require different styles of shades.

My favorite sunglasses are Oakley Frogskins.

They come in a ton of different varieties, are lightweight, durable, and look great.

My favorite feature of Oakley Frogskins are the sides are designed to pop on and off (no screw or pin holding them in), so you don’t run the risk of breaking them.

This also means that you can easily customize the way your sunglasses look by taking the sides from 1 pair and putting them on the frames of another. It’s a lot of fun and they look great!

Footwear for Europe in Autumn

You’re going to be on your feet a lot when you’re in Europe. Just about every city is a walking city and you’re definitely going to get your steps in.

My packing list for Europe in fall includes the best footwear to keep your feet happy at the end of the day.

1 Pair of Good Walking Shoes

I only travel with one pair of shoes, Kuru Chicanes, and they are damn good.

In fact, the Kuru Chicanes are the most comfortable shoes I’ve ever worn. It feels like you are walking on a cloud.

When you’re traveling around Europe, you are going to do a lot of walking.

It is incredibly important that you have comfortable shoes that can withstand the heavy workload, and these can.

They are a little more expensive than your regular shoes, but I’ve had mine for over 2 years, and they are still comfortable as hell and going strong.

1 Pair of Flip Flops or Sandals

There is only brand of sandals I recommend to everyone: Rainbows.

Rainbow sandals are the most comfortable and durable sandals you will ever own.

The sandals mold to your foot after wearing them for a few days, providing you excellent support and feel.

I always bring a pair of flip flops with me to Europe in the off chance I go to a pool, lake or the ocean.

They are also great to have for dirty showers at hostels.

I cannot recommend Rainbows enough. They are by far the best flip flops out there. Get them and let your feet be happy!

The Essential Electronics, Gadgets, and Gear to Bring on Every Trip

There is essential gear you need to bring with you when you travel.

It’s so important, I created an Essential Backpacking Gear List for Europe, which you should check out. I go more in-depth with the best gear for any trip through Europe.

Some of the items you want to make sure you bring are an iPad or Kindle, headphones, a portable charger, an international plug adapter, an umbrella, and a refillable water bottle.

Read my post on the best backpacking gear for Europe to find more essentials you should bring with you.

READ MORE: The Best Travel Gifts for Women

Toiletries

You need to bring toiletries with you whenever you travel.

However, you don’t have to bring everything, or large quantities of stuff.

Every city in Europe has markets and apothecaries where you can resupply anything that runs out.

This helps you keep the weight down in your bag, which is hugely important when traveling.

Liquids Bag

By now you all know you should be putting your liquids in a quart-sized bag for traveling.

In Europe, they make you take the liquids bag out at every airport.

It’s important that you pack it near the top where it is easily accessible, so you don’t have to dig through your perfectly packed bag to find it.

The best liquids bag I’ve found is the TUZZ TSA Approved toiletry bag.

The rectangular design of the bag makes it much easier to store and organize liquids than a plastic bag.

I’ve been using this for 3 years with no problems at any airport and highly recommend it.

Liquids Holder

I always fill up my liquids in a GoToob Travel Bottle since I don’t check any baggage when I travel.

GoToobs are great! They come in a 3-pack, so you have 1 for shampoo, 1 for body wash, and 1 for lotion.

That’s all the liquids you need to bring with you for backpacking Europe in the fall.

Toiletry Bag

I use the Osprey UltraLight Zip Organizer and love it!

This is the best toiletry bag I’ve ever owned.

It’s super light, has a hanging hook, tons of compartments to keep things organized, and takes up ¼ the space of a normal toiletry bag.

Every backpacker should have one.

Toothpaste and Toothbrush

I found this 2.9-ounce Crest toothpaste on Amazon and haven’t looked back.

It’s under the 3-ounce limit, so you can travel everywhere with it.

It is also much better than those 1-ounce minis people usually travel with because you won’t run out and have to find new toothpaste at a store.

As for a toothbrush, I love my Phillips Sonicare toothbrush.

What’s even better is now it comes with a charging case that charges via micro-USB.

That means you no longer have to bring a charging base with it. Score!

Medicines

If you take prescription medicine, bring it.

Also bring proof of that prescription, just in case.

I always scan my prescriptions and save those scans on my Google Drive for easy access.

It’s also good to bring a little supply of other medicines you might need along the way.

I always bring ibuprofen, antacid tablets, Imodium A-D, and melatonin (helps to sleep) when I travel.

I also put them in small little plastic baggies, so they take up less space.

Hand Sanitizer

It’s always good to have some hand sanitizer with you to keep you 99.99% germ free.

I love the Purell Hand Sanitizer Portable Pump Bottle.

With the pump, I don’t have to worry about the little cap coming off and spilling hand sanitizer all over the place. That’s happened more times than I’d like to admit.

Cleansing Wipes

Burt’s Bees Cleansing Towelettes are super refreshing and you feel like a champ after using them. They are the best!

Travel Febreze

You should always spray a little something in the air after dropping a heater.

This is especially true when you’re staying in a hostel or hotel and sharing the bathroom with other people.

Febreze To Go is what you need to bring with you when you travel. Put it in your liquids bag and everyone will thank you later.

Smoking is everywhere in Europe, so it’s also great to spray on your clothes to freshen them up.

First Aid Kit

The Thrive First Aid Kit is exactly what you need while you travel.

It’s small, lightweight, and has everything you need for emergencies.

I especially love how it comes with safety pins.

You might have to take the scissors out for carry-on luggage. You can also add extra bandages and ointment to the bag if you want to customize before your trip.

I’ve had to use items from this kit more than I ever thought I would for cuts, blisters, and securing things with the safety pins.

Final Thoughts

Traveling to Europe in fall is magical.

The weather is typically amazing, the fall foliage is breathtaking, and there aren’t as many crowds of tourists around.

Fall is definitely my favorite time to visit Europe.

Another benefit about Europe is that you don’t have to bring everything with you.

The key for going to Europe is to not overpack, especially if you are a backpacker.

If you run out of soap, shampoo, or toothpaste, you can go to a market and pick some up. The cost of these goods is roughly the same as it is in the States, too.

Now I’d Like to Hear from You

I hope you enjoyed my post on the perfect packing list for Europe in fall for male backpackers.

Now I would like to hear from you.

What did you think of my men’s packing list for Europe in fall?

Is there anything you think I left out?

What are your favorite items to pack for Europe in autumn?

Let me know by leaving a quick comment below!

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