Essentials

• Choose luggage that's as compact and lightweight as possible. You're likely to be maneuvering it through train and subway stations, up and down stairs and down cobblestone streets. If you pack right, a carry-on bag for clothes plus the allowed personal bag, which can later be used as a daypack, should enable you to travel for more than two weeks. Not only is carry-on luggage manageable, but if you have to make last-minute changes in plans, you can easily grab your belongings and run for a new flight--a feat that's impossible with checked luggage. And you'll avoid checked-luggage fees. Of course, carry-on means you need to pack just small quantities of liquids and gels (limited to 3 ounces or smaller containers that all fit in a clear, quart-size plastic bag) and buy extra products when you arrive in Europe. If you do check a bag, be sure to put identification on it (under a sliding tag to hide it from casual view is best). Include ID inside the bag as well. Keep your passport, cash and essentials such as credit card and ATM card in a protected bag, money belt or travel pouch. If you must check bags, be sure to keep essential travel papers, credit cards, medications, eyeglasses and valuables in your carry-on bag.
  
  

Clothing

• To ensure having everything you need without overdoing luggage, lay all your clothing out a week or more in advance. Ensure that all shirts and tops go with each other. Select one basic color--tan is good for summer; black, brown or navy for winter. Choose items that are washable, quick drying and don't need ironing. Plan to layer items. For extra warmth without a lot of weight, take a thin, thermal underwear top to use under shirts and sweaters. Chinos take up less space than jeans and wash and dry more easily, though many people prefer them. A thin windbreaker provides protection for rain as well as another layer over sweaters. It may suffice for most spring through fall travel but if you expect very cold weather, wear your heavy coat. Be aware that in Europe, people are more formal. Shorts are not worn as often as in the U.S. Churches usually have dress requirements that request no shorts or bare attire. Choose conservative attire that will be appropriate for casual dining out or touring.
  
  

Comfort Items

• Plan for the long flight with a paperback that you'll enjoy but that you can leave when you're finished. If you can fit in two, take them because English-language books are available in Europe but much more expensive. If possible, copy or cut out the appropriate pages for guidebooks to save weight and you can throw them out once you've passed that destination. A poncho and/or small, collapsible umbrella will come in handy. Check with the accommodations where you'll be staying to see if they include a hair dryer; if not, take a travel version with convertible voltage and set it for the European voltage, which is 220 volts (American is 110) and don't forget adapter plug(s) for the countries you'll be visiting.