It sounds like a no-brainer but you should prep your passport as soon as you start planning your trip. Don’t leave it to the last minute to try and locate it - even if you’re certain it’s in the drawer you popped it in when you returned from your last trip. It’s also a good idea to double-check the expiration date as some countries may refuse entry if you have less than six months of validity on your passport from the date you intend to leave that country.
While you’re planning your trip, remember to check the visa requirements of the countries you’ll be visiting. While Australians don’t need a visa to holiday in certain European countries for up to 90 days in a 180-day period, there are still many countries with their own entry and exit requirements. Visit Smart Traveller to get up-to-date information on all your European destinations.
It’s always worth picking up some travel insurance before you head off on your trip, getting cover on everything from your health to your luggage. It doesn’t have to be expensive, you can choose the basic cover and then upgrade for the things that matter most to you.
An itinerary can help you keep track of your travel dates and details of the places you’re staying, especially if you’re planning on visiting multiple locations. Make a copy of your itinerary and email it to yourself, and leave a copy at home with someone you trust.
The warmer weather will make it easier for you to pack light-saving room in your luggage for gifts and souvenirs! Light dresses, shorts, and t-shirts will keep you sorted for most of your trip, while a light jacket or sweater is perfect for those cooler evenings enjoying a meal on the water.
No matter the style of the holiday, you will want to pack some comfortable walking shoes. Europe is synonymous with cobblestone streets that can make walking in heels a hazard. Find a shoe that can take you from exploring museums to indulging in the local cuisine, and don’t forget to break in your shoes before you go!
As you escape the Aussie winter to seek out the European sun, it’s important to remember your sun protection. Seek out shade as much as you can and remember to bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen which you should re-apply frequently throughout the day.
It wouldn’t be a European summer without a dip in the Mediterranean or the pool of your hotel. Remember to pack your swimmers so you can dive right in and not have to worry about rushing off to the local shops to buy a new pair.
A small backpack is essential for getting around each day and carrying everything that doesn’t fit into your pockets. When choosing your daypack for Europe consider the security, size, comfort, and number of pockets.
When planning your trip, you may utilise a guidebook for location recommendations, tips, advice, and even some basic local lingo. Bringing this with you each day, along with a map, will help you navigate unfamiliar areas and stop you from relying on your phone, so you can preserve the battery for capturing memories instead.
A day of exploration under the European sun is thirsty work. Bringing a reusable water bottle will not only help reduce plastic waste but it can save you some money too! There are drinking fountains and refill stations all across Europe for you to refill your bottle and continue on your adventure.
It’s a good idea to bring a basic first aid kit on your trip as accessing medical care can prove challenging in some countries. Don’t forget to pack any necessary medication and motion sickness tablets for your flights.
You’ve packed all your electronics and you feel like you’re forgetting something. The electronics are useless without their chargers! We also recommend bringing a few travel adaptors to allow you to use your appliances abroad.
After all the planning and packing, there’s one more thing you need to do before you jet off for a summer in Europe. Travelex makes it easy for you, no matter where you’re flying. You can either order your foreign cash online before your trip and take it with you, or load Euros and GBP directly onto your Travelex Money Card online or via the Travelex Travel Money app for our very best rates!
