Traveling within the European Union offers fantastic opportunities to explore diverse cultures, stunning landscapes, and historic cities. Properly preparing your luggage can make the difference between an enjoyable and a stressful vacation. Here’s a detailed list of what you should include in your luggage when traveling within the EU.
Essential Documents
Passport or ID card: Ensure your passport or ID card is valid for the entire duration of your trip.
Tickets and reservations: Keep copies of your plane, train, or bus tickets, as well as hotel reservations.
Travel insurance: Travel insurance can provide protection in case of medical emergencies, cancellations, or lost luggage.
Clothing and Footwear
Season-appropriate clothing: Check the weather at your destination and pack suitable clothes. Include layers that can be added or removed depending on the temperature.
Comfortable footwear: You’ll be doing a lot of walking in Europe, so comfortable shoes are essential.
Accessories: Don’t forget hats, scarves, and sunglasses for sun protection.
Technology and Gadgets
Phone and chargers: Make sure you have all necessary cables and an adapter for European outlets.
Power bank: A power bank can be a lifesaver when you’re on the go and don’t have access to a power outlet.
Camera: If you enjoy photography, a quality camera can be a great addition.
Personal Hygiene Products
Basic toiletries: Include toothbrush and toothpaste, shampoo, shower gel, deodorant, and other personal hygiene products.
Medications: If you’re on medication, bring enough for the entire trip along with prescriptions.
Food and Drinks
Snacks: Pack some healthy snacks for the journey such as dried fruits, nuts, or cereal bars.
Reusable water bottle: Stay properly hydrated throughout your travels.
Miscellaneous
Travel guides and maps: Even if you use GPS, physical maps and travel guides can be very useful.
Notebook and pen: For quick notes or keeping a travel journal.
Additional Tips
Check baggage restrictions: Different airlines and trains in Europe have different rules regarding baggage size and weight. Check these rules before you depart.
Smart carry-on packing: In your carry-on, pack valuables, important documents, and a change of clothes in case your main luggage is lost or delayed.
Avoid overpacking: Pack only what’s necessary and leave room for souvenirs.
Traveling in the EU can be extremely enjoyable and stress-free if you’re well-prepared. Plan your luggage carefully, considering your destination and planned activities, to fully enjoy new and exciting experiences.
Read more: Infocons – What Not to Pack in Your Luggage When Traveling by Plane
What Should You Avoid Putting in Your Luggage When Traveling in the EU?
As you prepare your luggage for travel within the European Union, it’s important to be aware of certain items that are recommended to avoid putting in your checked baggage. These recommendations are meant to ensure a smooth journey and prevent potential inconveniences or delays at airports or checkpoints.
What to avoid putting in checked baggage:
Prohibited items on airplanes:
Liquids over the limit: According to airport security regulations, liquids must be in containers of maximum 100 ml and packed in a single, transparent, resealable plastic bag with a maximum capacity of 1 liter.
Sharp or dangerous objects: For example, knives, razors, large hand tools, or other items that may be considered dangerous.
Flammable substances: Sprays, fuels, paints, or other substances that could pose a fire or explosion hazard.
Valuables and important documents:
Do not leave valuables in checked baggage: Such as expensive jewelry, personal documents (passport, ID card, plane tickets), or large amounts of money. These should be in your carry-on luggage to keep them under constant supervision.
Essential and necessary medications:
Do not put medications in checked baggage: In case of need, you should have quick access to them. Your carry-on luggage is the appropriate place for these.
Other considerations:
Fragile or particularly valuable items: Whenever possible, take them with you in your carry-on luggage to prevent damage or loss during baggage handling.
Additional tips:
Plan your luggage carefully: Check the specific regulations of the airline you are flying with to avoid any issues at security checkpoints.
Label your luggage: Ensure your luggage has a clear tag with your contact information to facilitate recovery in case of loss.
Make sure you have enough space in your luggage: Avoid overpacking to have enough room for souvenirs or other purchases made during your trip.
By following these recommendations and tips, you will contribute to a smooth and incident-free journey, having everything you need to enjoy your EU experience in a pleasant and relaxing manner.
What is the accepted weight limit for luggage at the airport?
The accepted weight limit for luggage at the airport can vary depending on the airline and the class of travel you are in. Generally, there are two main types of baggage rules: the maximum weight allowed for checked baggage and the maximum dimensions.
Maximum weight of checked baggage:
Standard weight: Most airlines allow checked baggage with a maximum weight between 20 and 23 kilograms for international flights. For domestic or intra-EU flights, the maximum weight may often be lower, around 20 kilograms.
Premium classes: Some airlines offer a higher weight limit for checked baggage in premium or business classes.
Maximum dimensions of checked baggage:
Standard dimensions for checked baggage are usually around 158 cm (length + width + height) in total.
These dimensions may vary slightly between airlines, so it’s important to check the specific regulations of the airline you are flying with.
General recommendations:
Check the airline’s rules: Before heading to the airport, check on the airline’s website or in your booking details for the specific rules regarding checked baggage.
Monitor your baggage weight: Ensure your baggage does not exceed the maximum weight allowed to avoid additional costs at the airport.
Prepare for variations: Rules for checked baggage may vary depending on the destination, type of ticket (economy vs. business), and airline, so it’s advisable to inform yourself in advance.
In conclusion, to avoid unpleasant surprises at the airport, it is recommended to check and adhere to the specific rules of the airline you are traveling with regarding the weight and dimensions of checked baggage.
Source: European Commission