Packing List for Women

By Joan Robinson

Rick Steves tour guide Joan Robinson teaches one of our most popular travel classes, "Packing Light and Right." Here are the clothes and toiletries she takes along; for the rest of her list (including documents, money, and some creative extras), see Rick's Packing List.

Clothing

2 pairs of walking/comfortable shoes (one closed toe/one open, weather permitting)

1 rainproof jacket

2 pairs of shorts/capris (shorts are fine on the beach, but not in churches; capris are OK anywhere)

2 pairs of pants (one dressy, one casual; cotton blend is recommended: when washed, it dries faster than jeans)

1 belt (optional)

1 swimsuit

4 pairs of socks (cotton blend)

5 pairs of underwear (silk, lace, or microfiber dries quickest)

1 extra bra

4–6 shirts (long/short-sleeved, various colors)

1–2 light cardigans for layering

1–2 skirts (wrinkle-resistant; one should be at least knee-length for church visits)

1 dress (optional)

Hat (optional)

Scarf (optional)

Vest (optional; great for layering)

Sleepwear

Toiletries/Medicine

Body soap/puff/synthetic washcloth; most European hotels do not supply washcloths

Toothbrush/toothpaste/floss

Shampoo/conditioner

Brush/comb

Lotion (spf recommended)

Vaseline (for feet; great for potential blisters)

Razor (non-electric)/shaving cream or soap

Sunscreen, insect repellent

Prescription drugs (in original container with your name and your doctor's name, write down generic name)

First aid kit

Feminine hygiene products

Deodorant

Nail clippers/file/tweezers

Spare glasses and/or prescription, mini-eyeglass repair kit, or contact lenses and supplies

Hand sanitizer

Vitamins

OTC remedies (whatever works for you): Pepto, decongestants, etc.

Clothesline, sink stopper, soap

Baby powder (many uses, including dry shampoo for hair)

For the rest of what you'll want to pack (documents, money, travel info, and some creative extras), see Rick's Packing List.