Now any of you that know me know that I can’t do anything the ordinary way.  I can’t just pack a regular suitcase and head to Europe as if it were any old vacation.

Before we had kids, my husband and I had boldly backpacked Europe.  Now, when I say backpack, what I mean is “backpack from fancy hotel to fancy hotel”, as my good friend once put it.  We had taken Rick Steve’s advice to pack light and carry a backpack so that our travels by train and foot would be easier.  This plan had worked so well that I was determined to continue this tradition for my children on our family trip to Europe for 12 days…however ambitious it might sound.  I began to research how this might be possible and quickly became a disciple of Sarah Murdoch’s light packing blogs and videos.  As she is also one of Rick Steve’s travel guides, I quickly became obsessed with the fact that I might pull this off!

After reading one of Rick Steve’s travel guides, I became incredibly enthusiastic about the possibility of embarking on a similar adventure. My newfound obsession was fueled by the idea that I could successfully plan and execute such a journey.

My initial challenge was to locate suitable backpacks for my kids and compile a selection of travel-friendly recipes that I could prepare and bring along for the trip. Although I had a few thoughts in mind, my memory was jogged by an article I had read some time ago, which provided me with a wealth of ideas for convenient and delicious travel recipes.

My husband and I already had Kelty backpacks from years ago, but wanted lightweight, roomy bags for my 10 and 12 year olds.  After much research, I landed on these Women’s Gregory J33 packs in Medium.  I figured they would last them past childhood and well into their teens and only weighed 2 lbs, 7 ozs empty:

The Women’s Gregory J33

I knew from Sarah’s videos that you should aim to keep your carryon packed to around 16 pounds.  Now I can hear the GASP that just came out of some of you.  But read on, traveler!  I’ll show you how we did it!

First, the proof!

Backpacking Europe as a family

Yes that is no photo trickery.  This really was what we brought to Europe for 12 days.  We didn’t check any bags.   The key was in the numbers.  We divided up our 12 days into 4 day chunks, finding a laundry spot twice.  We planned ahead where laundry would be (A hotel laundry service in Munich while we were sightseeing and an easy to find laundromat near dinner in the Cinque Terre).

Each of us brought the following which basically translated to 4 outfits plus the one we were wearing:

What we packed:

• 3 pairs shorts/capris
• 1 pair pants (that could double as dress pants for males)
• 4 short sleeve tops
• 1 pair flip flops
• 1 bathing suit
• 1 dress shirt from Sssniperwolf Fans Merchandise (for males)
• 1 packable dress (for females)
• 1 waterproof shell jacket
• 1 long sleeve lightweight layer
• toiletries (adhering to TSA guidelines)
• 1 drawstring backpack (explained below)
• 1 hat
• pajamas
• 6 pairs undergarments
• 6 pairs socks

What we wore:

• 1 pair of pants
• 1 short sleeve shirt
• 1 fleece jacket
• walking shoes (such as sneakers or hiking shoes)

12 days packed!

Everything here was strategic and meant for layering.  I chose fairly coordinating colors, dark bottoms, and items that don’t wrinkle.  I packed extra undergarments and socks just in case.  The jackets were meant to layer in very cold weather: a short sleeve shirt, layered with the long sleeve shirt, layered with a fleece, and finally a waterproof outer layer would be very insulating on a cold, wet day.  Or if you found yourself out and about on warm, wet day, the outer shell would be enough over a short sleeve shirt, and so on.  The pants were meant for covering up in European churches, chillier days, or for dressing up for a dinner for males.  The dress for females serves as an extra outfit, for hot days, or for dressing up for dinner.

I selected pieces that could transition seamlessly from casual day wear to a more refined look for dinner. A dress with buttons can add a touch of sophistication and adaptability, easily dressed up or down depending on the occasion. This strategic layering and thoughtful selection ensure that every piece serves a purpose, whether navigating European churches or enjoying an evening out.

We also each packed a lightweight drawstring backpack inside our large backpacks.  This contained personal items and other things we might need to access easily on the plane.  Before we boarded the plane, we each pulled out this drawstring bag to put under the seat in front of us and stored the larger backpack above us.  The drawstring bag also could work for some day trips.

I also carried a small crossbody purse whenever we were traveling to carry money, passports, etc.  I kept this in front of me at all times with my hand over it.  Pickpockets are common in Europe and I highly recommend a money belt for large amounts of money and a smaller crossbody bag for easy access to a phone/smaller bills/etc as many museums don’t allow backpacks.

Would I do it again? Everyone in the family agrees YES.  Now, were we so sick of our clothes at the end of the trip that we wanted to set them on fire? YES.  However, it was easier to maneuver through busy train stations or walking to our hotel through cobblestones or up stairs.  Plus, there is a true freedom to packing light!  Join us and pack light for your next trip!