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Europe travel tips ​

Here are a few things that made my trip between Paris, Amsterdam, and Brussels easier and more enjoyable.
Hopefully, they will help you too!

Summary ​

  • Travel light - Avoid suitcases; use backpacks and duffel bags.
  • eSIMs are a must - Public Wi-Fi is not common, and Nomad's Europe plan worked well.
  • Eurostar takes time - Expect delays and limited luggage space.
  • Urban smells are real - Pack alcohol wipes and masks for unpleasant odors.
  • Apple Pay is everywhere - Nearly all shops accept credit cards; just watch for foreign transaction fees.
  • Photocopy ID - Keep a paper copy of your passport and ID in your daypack to avoid loss or theft.

Packing and luggage tips ​

  • European cities are not designed for suitcases - cobblestones, narrow streets, and stairs are common.
  • Use large backpacks instead of wheeled suitcases - easier to carry and better suited for cobbled streets and narrow hotel staircases.
  • Every zipper should be lockable - Pickpocketing is common in high-traffic areas.
  • For my partner and me, we packed:
    • 2 large backpacks (one for each of us)
    • 1 medium-sized daypack packed inside one of the large backpacks
    • 1 sling or under-clothing money wallet
    • 1 duffel bag reserved for souvenirs and extra items for the return trip
  • Pack a foldable duffel bag to carry souvenirs or extra items for the return trip.
  • Bring thin slippers for hotel rooms - shoes are commonly worn indoors in Europe.

Specific bags used:

Eurostar travel tips ​

  • Expect delays - Eurostar trains are frequently behind schedule. Do not rely on them for tight connections, nor schedule anything important immediately after.
  • Overhead luggage storage - You must lift your luggage overhead to store it, like a carry-on bag on an airline.
  • No checked luggage service - Everything goes in the overhead racks.
  • Limited elevators and escalators - Access to the train platforms can be challenging. Nearly all have at least one elevator, but they are difficult to find. Stairs are the default.
  • Train car numbers are often out of order - When trains are attached or detached, the car numbers may change. Be ready to change your location quickly.
  • Ticket prices fluctuate - Midday departures often have the highest prices.
  • Book in advance - The reservation process takes time and is not always intuitive.
  • Slow Wi-Fi - Onboard Wi-Fi is free but very slow. eSIMs are a better option.
  • Electric outlets next to seats - Most seats have electric outlets, but they are not always in the best location. Bring a light charger for the Eurostar train or airline power outlets.

Mobile data and eSIM ​

Currency and payments ​

  • Credit cards are accepted nearly everywhere - even for small purchases.
  • Watch out for foreign transaction fees - they add up on transit or small charges.
  • Apple Card worked well: instant notifications and clear currency conversions.
  • Revolut is highly recommended - set it up before your trip.
  • Withdraw about €50 in cash in small bills (€1, €2, €5) for tipping or cash-only toilet locations.

Environment and hygiene ​

  • The smell of urine, cigarettes, and marijuana is common in urban areas.
    • Wash clothes more often than expected - choose hotels or Airbnbs with laundry facilities.
  • Bring:
    • Detergent (travel-size)
    • Alcohol wipes - for hands and surfaces
    • Face masks, especially for Eurostar train restrooms

Tech and device tips ​

  • Leave the laptop - bring an iPad with a small keyboard instead.
    • Easier to use in landscape mode than a phone
    • Less anxiety about theft
  • Bring a phone strap - drop protection for crowded areas.
  • Water bottle with filter built-in like Brita Filtering Water Bottle is great for filling up at sinks.
  • Extra power bank - outlets can be rare in cafes, trains, or stations.
  • Attach AirTags to every bag and important item.
  • Bring an extra AirTag for your Airbnb keys.
  • Battery life is crucial - bring an extra-large power bank.
  • Lightweight power adapter - the Sanwa Supply TR-AD4W Overseas Power Conversion Adapter worked well for us.

Final tips ​

  • Plan ahead for bookings - museums and trains often require reservations.
  • Flexibility is key - from delayed trains to odd smells, Europe is full of surprises. Stay adaptable and prepared.