My Secret to Effortless European Travel? These 5 Favorite Things

For someone who has traveled Europe so many times, these are things that I've learned are essential for any European trip. After years of experience, traveling has become effortless because of this. I no longer stress over “I should have brought this or that.” 

In this blog, I’m sharing my five favorite travel essentials—things that have consistently made my European adventures smoother, lighter, and more enjoyable. Whether you’re planning your first trip or your fifteenth, these tried-and-true favorites might just become your new go-tos, too.

Here are my five favorite things that help me feel ready for anything Europe throws my way:

EU Power Adapter – A Must for Charging

Europe’s outlets are different from the ones back home, and trust me, there’s nothing worse than arriving in a new city with a dead phone and no way to charge it. I always bring a universal EU power adapter with multiple USB ports so I can charge my phone, camera, and battery pack at the same time. It’s a simple item, but absolutely essential — especially if you’re hopping between countries with different plug types.

Water Shoes – Essential for Rocky Beaches

Whether I’m wandering the Croatian coast or dipping into a hidden cove in Greece, water shoes are a total game changer. A lot of beaches in Europe are rocky, and walking barefoot can be painful (or even dangerous). My water shoes are lightweight, quick-drying, and pack easily in my day bag. They’ve saved my feet more times than I can count — and let me enjoy the water without worrying about sharp rocks or slippery surfaces.

Travel-Friendly Sunscreen – Perfect Size + Clean Ingredients

Sunscreen is a non-negotiable, but finding one that’s both carry-on friendly and made with clean ingredients can be tough. I always pack a travel-sized mineral sunscreen that’s reef-safe and gentle on my skin. It fits perfectly in my bag and I can reapply on the go, whether I’m exploring sun-drenched ruins or lounging on the beach. No spills, no harsh chemicals — just protection that works.

Foldable Day Pack – Great for Excursions

A full-size backpack can be bulky and unnecessary when you’re exploring cities or heading out for a day trip. That’s why I swear by my foldable day pack. It’s compact enough to fit in my suitcase and unfolds into a surprisingly roomy, comfortable bag. I use it for hikes, market strolls, beach days, and everything in between. Bonus: It’s a great way to avoid plastic bags and keep your hands free.

Cordless Battery Pack – Keep Your Phone Charged

Google Maps, translations, ticket confirmations, photos — your phone works overtime while you travel. I always carry a cordless battery pack so I’m never left with a dead phone at the worst possible time. The best ones don’t require a separate cable, which makes them extra easy to use on the go. I keep mine in my day pack and charge it overnight so it’s always ready to go.

Bonus Travel Tips to Keep You Prepared

Money & Cards Tip 

Before you travel, please remember to notify your debit and credit card companies about your travel dates and destination so your cards don’t get flagged or frozen while abroad.

Do You Need Euros Before the Trip? 

Nope! Don’t stress about getting euros in advance. You can easily withdraw euros at the airport ATM once you arrive using your debit card. 👉 Here’s a quick reel on how to avoid extra fees when doing that: How to Get Euros at the Airport – [Instagram Reel]

Travel Insurance Reminder 

As a boutique company, we can’t offer refunds if something unexpected comes up. I highly recommend protecting your investment with travel insurance through Faye: 👉 Purchase here: [Faye Insurance]

Packing light doesn’t mean sacrificing comfort or convenience. These five favorites — plus a few key travel tips — are always in my toolkit, no matter where in Europe I’m headed. They help me feel grounded, organized, and ready to explore confidently, and honestly, they make every trip more effortless.

What are your travel must-haves?