I shared our trip on my Instagram, and created full highlights of each stop with tags and links to where we stayed, ate and things we did (see those HERE), but packing is another hot topic when it comes to this trip! More specifically, what and how I packed for three weeks…in just a carry-on!
If you’ve been around here for a bit, then you know how strongly I feel about traveling with just a carry-on…especially for big international trips with lots of moving around. We had several tight connection times, which we would have missed had we had to wait for our baggage. Not to mention, countless trains (hello steps on steps!) and small cars, where having smaller luggage we could each easily maneuver on our own was essential!
However, living out of just a carry-on does require some sacrifice! For instance, I minimize my skincare and makeup routines, rely on hotel shampoo and hair dryers, and fully embrace the capsule travel wardrobe. I shared everything I packed, along with 40+ outfit combinations in THIS POST, so today I thought I’d show you the pieces in action in Europe.
First up, the packing list! These are the exact items I brought, but you could use it as a guide for your next big trip, swapping in similar pieces you already own. It’s also important to note we had multiple climates and a range of activities (chilly and rainy in Switzerland, and warm and sunny in Italy), so you can adapt the packing list to where you’re going.
Packing List //
TOPS: Gauzy Button Down (XS) | Black Top (Small) | Linen Vest (size 2) | Zig Zag Blouse (Small) (code CASSIE15) | Striped Linen Tank (XS) | Crewneck Tee | Racerback Tank
SWEATERS: Striped Cardigan (Small) | Cropped Cardigan | Cashmere Crewneck
PANTS: Linen Pants (XS) | Wide Leg Crop Pants | Black Pants (Small) | Zig Zag Pants (Small) (code CASSIE15) | Raw Hem Jeans (size 26)
SKIRT: Midi Slip Skirt // SHORTS: Wide Leg Shorts (size 2) | Striped Shorts (XS)
SWIM: Palm Leaf Bandeau Top | High Waist Bottoms | Plunge Swimsuit (Small)
DRESSES: Tropical Scene Midi Dress (Decor, Small) | Midi Slip Dress | Strapless Dress (code SUGARPLUM15) | Sleeveless Midi Dress (XS)
ACTIVE: Cropped Tank | Shorts (Small) | Half-Zip Pullover (Similar HERE) | Rain Jacket (XS) | Hiking Pants (Small)
SHOES: Ankle Strap Sandals (Similar HERE) | Toe Strap Sandals | Sneakers (CASSIE15) | Hiking Sneakers (CASSIE15)
ACCESSORIES: Straw Hat | Sunglasses | Linen Pants (XS) | Scarf | Beaded Necklace (Similar HERE)
BAGS: Woven Crossbody Bag | Straw Tote Bag | Sling Bag | Backpack
TRAVEL: Duffel Bag | Rolling Suitcase | Toiletries Case | Packing Cubes | Sound Machine | Hand Sanitizer | Outlet Adapter
Curious how I fit all that in my trusty carry-on? I created THIS VIDEO to show the process! This bag (on clearance!) and this duffle are my go-to combination for the most-allowable size for maximum packing. And let’s not forget packing cubes! For this trip I tried compression cubes for the first time, and was really impressed!
I didn’t snap a pic of every outfit I wore (see even more combinations of the styles I packed HERE), but here’s a look at many of them.
Switzerland //
Vitznau/Lucerne /
Cashmere Crewneck | Zig Zag Pants (Small) (code CASSIE15) | Toe Strap Sandals | Glasses | Tennis Bracelet
Rain Jacket (Small) | Striped Cardigan (Small) | Raw Hem Jeans (size 26) | Hiking Sneakers (code CASSIE15) | Sling Bag | Paris Hat | Glasses
Rain Jacket (Small) | Hiking Pants (Small) | Hiking Sneakers (code CASSIE15) | Backpack | Sunglasses
Cashmere Crewneck | Raw Hem Jeans (size 26) | Sneakers (code CASSIE15) | Sling Bag | Beaded Necklace (Similar HERE) | Sunglasses
Jungfrau Region /
Rain Jacket (Small) | Half-Zip Pullover (Similar HERE) | Hiking Pants (Small) | Hiking Sneakers (code CASSIE15) | Backpack
Racerback Tank | Hiking Pants (Small) | Hiking Sneakers (code CASSIE15) | Backpack | Sunglasses
Black Top & Pants (Small) | Striped Cardigan (XS) | Sneakers (Also HERE) (code CASSIE15) | Sling Bag | Beaded Necklace (Similar HERE) | Sunglasses
Zermatt /
on me: Zig Zag Blouse (Small) (code CASSIE15) | Zig Zag Pants (Small) (code CASSIE15) | Cashmere Crewneck | Woven Crossbody Bag | Teardrop Earrings
on Sloan: Tank Dress | Striped Long Cardigan | All of Sloan’s Outfits HERE
Cropped Tank | Shorts (Small) | Hiking Sneakers (CASSIE15) | Jacket (Also HERE) | Paris Hat
Linen Vest (size 2) | Midi Slip Skirt (XS) | Ankle Strap Sandals (Similar HERE) | Woven Crossbody Bag | Sunglasses
Jacket (Also HERE) | Hiking Pants (Small) | Hiking Sneakers (code CASSIE15) | Backpack | Sunglasses
Ascona /
Striped Linen Tank (XS) | Linen Pants (XS) | Sneakers (Also HERE) (code CASSIE15) | Sling Bag
Sleeveless Midi Dress (XS) | Ankle Strap Sandals (Similar HERE) | Crossbody Bag | Beaded Necklace (Similar HERE) | Sunglasses
Linen Pants (XS) | Scarf as a top | Ankle Strap Sandals (Similar HERE) | Crossbody Bag | Sunglasses
Midi Slip Skirt (XS) | Bikini Top | Clear Strappy Sandals | Straw Tote Bag | Straw Hat
Black Tank (Small) | Wide Leg Shorts (size 2) | Striped Cardigan (XS) | Woven Crossbody Bag | Beaded Necklace (Similar HERE) | Sunglasses
Gauzy Button Down (XS) | Striped Shorts (XS) (Solid Colors Here) | Ankle Strap Sandals (Similar HERE) | Crossbody Bag | Sunglasses
Striped Tank Dress (XS) | Ankle Strap Sandals (Similar HERE) | Crossbody Bag | Straw Hat | Beaded Necklace (Similar HERE)
Sleeveless Midi Dress (XS) | Cropped Cardigan | Ankle Strap Sandals (Similar HERE) | Crossbody Bag | Beaded Necklace (Similar HERE)
Black Tank (Small) | Wide Leg Shorts (size 2) | Ankle Strap Sandals (Similar HERE) | Woven Crossbody Bag | Straw Hat
Lake Como /
Racerback Tank | Wide Leg Crop Pants | Cashmere Crewneck | Sneakers (code CASSIE15) | Sling Bag | Sunglasses | Beaded Necklace (Similar HERE)
Linen Vest (size 2) | Wide Leg Crop Pants | Ankle Strap Sandals (Similar HERE) | Crossbody Bag | Beaded Necklace (Similar HERE)
Tropical Scene Midi Dress (Decor, Small) | Cashmere Crewneck | Clear Strappy Sandals
Linen Vest (size 2) | Linen Pants (XS) | Ankle Strap Sandals (Similar HERE) | Crossbody Bag
Strapless Dress (Small) (code SUGARPLUM10) | Straw Hat | Sunglasses | Beaded Necklace (Similar HERE)
Palm Leaf Bandeau Top | High Waist Bottoms | Straw Hat | Sunglasses
Striped Cardigan (XS) | Wide Leg Crop Pants (2) | Toe Strap Sandals
Palm Leaf Bandeau Top | Wide Leg Crop Pants (2) | Clear Strappy Sandals | Straw Hat | Sunglasses
Striped Linen Tank (XS) | Striped Shorts (XS) (Solid Colors Here) | Ankle Strap Sandals (Similar HERE) | Crossbody Bag | Sunglasses | Beaded Necklace (Similar HERE) | Teardrop Earrings
Tropical Scene Midi Dress (Decor, Small) | Cropped Cardigan | Ankle Strap Sandals (Similar HERE) | Crossbody Bag | Teardrop Earrings
Cropped Tank | Shorts (Small) | Jacket (Also HERE) | Hiking Sneakers (code CASSIE15) | Sunglasses
Cashmere Crewneck (Small) | Wide Leg Shorts (size 2) | Ankle Strap Sandals (Similar HERE)
Lemon Top (XXS) | Striped Shorts (XS) (Solid Colors Here) | Ankle Strap Sandals (Similar HERE) | Straw Tote Bag | Straw Hat
on me: Strapless Dress (Small) (code SUGARPLUM10) | Cropped Cardigan | Clear Strappy Sandals | Woven Crossbody Bag
on Sloan: Tropical Scene Midi Dress (Decor, Small) | Platform Sandals | All of Sloan’s Outfits HERE
Striped Cardigan (XS) | Raw Hem Jeans (size 26) | Woven Crossbody Bag | Sneakers (code CASSIE15)
Gauzy Button Down (XS) | Wide Leg Crop Pants (2) | Sneakers (Also HERE) (code CASSIE15) | Crossbody Bag | Sunglasses | Beaded Necklace (Similar HERE)
Cashmere Crewneck (Small) | Midi Slip Skirt (XS) | Ankle Strap Sandals (Similar HERE) | Crossbody Bag | Sunglasses
Midi Slip Dress (Small) | Cashmere Crewneck (Small) | Toe Strap Sandals | Woven Crossbody Bag
Pajamas/Lounge
I also packed this ribbed set as both my pajamas and lounge… it’s super soft and slinky, which means it also packs small.
Pajama Camisole | Pajama Pants
Travel Day //
As for what I wore on the main travel days to and from Europe… no surprise it’s my Vuori Performance Joggers! I also had this luxe pullover for staying warm and cozy. And of course, my latest travel essential, compression socks!
Crewneck Tee (Small) | Performance Joggers (Small) | Sneakers (code CASSIE15) | Sling Bag | Duffel Bag | Rolling Suitcase
Skincare //
My skincare and makeup routines definitely get down-sized, and I pack just the essentials to keep my skin clean and hydrated. We do have TSA PreCheck, which allows me to keep all the liquids (under 4 oz.) in my bag, but I do keep my Toiletries Case in the Duffel Bag for easy removal if needed.
Illuminating Eye Cream | Mini Radiant Cleansing Balm | Vitamin C Brightening Serum | Intense Hydrating Mask | Sheer Renewal Cream | Quench & Shine Restorative Hair Mask (Mini Size Included HERE) | Micro-Mineral Resurfacing Scrub // Code SUGARPLUM20 for 20% off site-wide!
Travel Essentials //
These are the essentials that come with me on most every trip… plus this new Toiletries Case I recently added to the mix, and LOVE! The Curling Iron is dual-voltage, which means it works in other countries with just a plug adaptor! And if you’re in need of a new carry-on, I’ve had this Rolling Spinner Suitcase for years and it’s currently on clearance!
1. Curling Iron // 2. Kindle Paperwhite
3. Charging Cord Organizer // 4. Pill Case
5. Outlet Adapter // 6. Travel Steamer
7. Zippered Makeup Brush Case // 8. Foldable Vanity Mirror
9. Clear Zipper Pouches // 10. Hat Clip
11. Toiletry Bottles // 12. Noise Machine
13. Packing Cubes // 14. Carry-On Duffel Bag (Also HERE)
15. Luggage Scale // 16. Rolling Spinner Suitcase
For another peek at how I packed my bag, check out THIS VIDEO… and THIS VIDEO for all the styles that went in my bag! I’m also working on a post with our complete itinerary, but you can see highlights of each of our stops in Switzerland, Italy, and France in my profile HERE.
I hope this post is helpful in packing for your next trip… feel free to leave any questions in the comments!
Hi. I totally agree with you on carry-on only. It’s a challenge and your packing list will be a huge help! Curious how you dealt with carrying enough sunscreen for the family (or did you buy there). Did you have to buy any toiletries or other basic supplies in Europe? And did you have problems coming back through France with the number of toiletries. Heard they make you put everything in a quart size ziploc.
Hi Jen! We were only in the sun a day or so on this trip (like full-body in the sun), so my 2 travel size Glow Oils were plenty. I wore it on my face everyday, obviously, but packed it with my makeup. But on other trips, we will just grab a full-size at the local store. We forgot nail clippers and other random things for this trip, but fortunately there are pharmacies everywhere and so fun to visit! On the way home from Paris, we actually checked our bags, so I’m not sure if they would have given us any trouble. The carry-on part is mostly just for convenience upon arrival and ease during the travel…once the trip is over, I’m happy to check that bag!! xo. C
Where do I find the comments? All I can find is this page to MAKE a comment, but no where to read comments. Or to read the response to this one! 🤨
Hi Lola! Comments have to be approved, so I’m working through all of them! Then you’ll be able to start seeing them! xo, C
Thanks for these wonderful tips!! Just curious if your 2 jackets fit in your suitcase or if you had to wear one on the plane.
I actually packed them both!! They both pack really small, so they fit! And honestly I only needed the rain jacket, but I had the space and love the Vuori jacket, so I threw it in! xo, C
Looks like an amazing trip! I had no idea Switzerland was so chilly in the summer.
Me either until I started googling the weather #oops but we made it work, it was great! xo, C
WoW! SPs! That trip! Epic!!! We all were right there along w/you! And such helpful honesty about details that we have come to expect from you! : )) I know “The Engineer” thought that train car ferry was…well, no words for that! Thank you for all the awesomeness, y’all. xoxoxooxo.
You can count on me to be honest with you guys!! xoxo C
Looks like an awesome trip! Have you ever found a backpack to replace the Luka duffle? I have the Luka and love it but it kills my shoulders when I carry it. (I put it on my suitcase as much as possible.) I’m liking backpacks but have a hard time finding one that fits what the Luka does. Any suggestions? Thanks!
Ooooh, wouldn’t that be amazing if they added backpack straps?! Have you ever tried carrying it that way? Maybe with the handles over each shoulder…might look a little wonky, but feel better. As for backpacks, we just have the smaller day packs, and the larger 70L duffles we took on safari. But I’ll keep an eye out! xo. C
What an amazing trip! I loved all your posts and seeing where you were. Is there anything you took but didn’t need or anything you wished you’d packed? Thanks for sharing ALL THE THINGS!!!
Thanks so much, Amy!! I actually packed 2 more tees, but I didn’t wear them, so I left them off the packing guide. I wish I’d packed and saved something a little more cute/special for one of our days in Paris (the last stop)…by then I was pretty much over the same pieces, ha! I forgot my little Colleen Rothschild hair mask (I always pack it bc it brings my hair back to life regardless of the hotel’s shampoo), and I forgot nail clippers (3 weeks required some grooming!) This packing was also a little unique because the weather in Switzerland was much cooler and wetter than we anticipated, so it was almost like packing for two different trips! xo. C
I really appreciate this post. I’m curious being a woman who loves fashion. Do you not like to shop on your vacation? Where do you put your purchases? I cannot go to Europe and not make a few large purchases. Since you have a roller and a duffle, do you put your duffle on the floor under the seat in front of you? Airlines are really cracking down on this. Thanks for sharing and what an amazing trip.
I’m so thrilled it was helpful, Rosemarie! The soft duffle does fit under the seat in front, so it counts as your ‘personal item’. As far as shopping, we typically just pick up small trinkets, but if we have more I’ll buy a cute tote bag (or sometimes the hotels gift them with the room!) and fill it up with our shopping goodies. Then I just check my hardshell bag home and carry on the tote. xo. C
Your trip looked amazing!!!! I love the idea of packing in a carryon but what do you do about washing? Do you use the hotels services or just rewear pieces?
Hi Amanda! Obviously some things were worn multiple times, but honestly I had enough that the only things I really needed to wash were undies and socks. We did stay at an Air BNB about halfway through the trip, so that was great for doing mid-trip laundry. I also pack a few of these packets….they’re incredible for washing smaller things in the sink! https://urlgeni.us/amazon/Sink-suds
This trip looks fantastic! Thanks for sharing all of your tips. I’m trying to learn how to travel internationally with a carry-on instead of a checked bag. My question is, how did you get so many items into your cubes? Can you show/describe how you folded and arranged inside the cubes? I have been using cubes for several years but can’t pack as many items as you do.
Hi Sylvia! I did use the compression cubes for the first time for this Europe trip, which definitely helped!! But I’ve always tried to fold everything about the same size as the cube I’m going to put it in. Think lying flat across, instead of stacking up. Does that make sense? Fit everything TO the cube. Hope this helps!! xoxo, C
I’m thinking about getting the smaller Luka duffel for our trip to Italy this coming May. Wondering if it will be acceptable as a personal item on KLM. Have you had any issues using the Luca as a personal item along with a roller carryon during international travel?
Hi Jessica! I’ve never had any issues with my Luke duffel being my personal item! I would definitely check with your specific airline in case they have different restrictions though! xo, C
Thank you for sharing this blog. You have great style and it’s very similar to my own, so was very helpful in planning my own packing for a trip to Italy in September.
Ciao 😀
Have so much fun!!!
Hi Cassie,
Forgot to ask, how did you pack your straw hat? I have a similar one I want to bring and I’m afraid it will get ruined if I try to pack it in a suitcase. Did you just carry it in your carry on duffle? Thanks in advance.
Great question!!! I use the hat clip linked below! I clip it to my carry-on duffel bag.
Hat clip: https://amzn.to/46fyp6W