How to Pack for a 2-Week Trip to Europe in a Carry-On: The 54321 Method

Trying to pack for Europe in a carry-on? Whether you’re going for 10 days, two weeks, or even a month—this guide will show you how to pack light without sacrificing what you need.

I’m walking you through exactly what I’m bringing for a 3-week Europe trip using my go-to system: the 54321 packing method.

Plus, you’ll find alternatives for different seasons, regions, and trip styles—plus a free downloadable checklist to help you stay organized.

This post contains affiliate links, meaning if you click through and make a purchase I may make a small commission. I only share information about things I know, love and trust!

Best Carry-On Bags for Europe

For this trip, I’m using the Monos Carry-On—it’s sleek, durable, and meets most European airline restrictions. 

But there are other great options too:

• Bric’s X-Travel Carry-On: Ultra lightweight at just 5.5 lbs (2.5 kg).
  
• Travelpro Maxlite 5: A reliable, budget-friendly option with plenty of space (the 20-wheel)
  
• Antler Carry-On (soft-sided): Even lighter at 4.19 lbs (1.9 kg) 👉 use this one to stay under 7kg!
  
• Antler Carry-on (hard-shell): a great option for European Airlines (like Icelandair or Ryanair) or Australian Airlines, such as Qantas (weighs 2.6 kg or 5.7 lbs).

• Backpack-style options: The tomtoc 40L or Tortuga 40L are great if you want something hands-free and soft-sided.

My Personal Item

I’m pairing my carry-on with the Away Everywhere Bag—structured but roomy, with a wide opening that makes it easy to access your essentials mid-flight.

For a day bag, I love the Lo & Sons Pearl crossbody.

It’s compact but functional, with multiple strap options and secure compartments.

Or try a similar crossbody bag from Quince (for a little cheaper).

If you want something more casual, the Nomad Lane sling bag is another versatile choice.

Essential Travel Accessories & Tech

These small but mighty items make international travel way smoother:

• Power bank + USB-C cord – For maps, photos, and phone use on the go.
  
• Travel power adapter – Just make sure your devices are dual voltage!
  • otherwise bring a voltage converter instead
    
• Phone wrist strap or neck strap – Great for crowded areas or risky photo spots.
  
• eSIM – I’m using Saily for this trip. You can pre-load your data and connect instantly after landing—no roaming fees or sketchy Wi-Fi. It works in 190+ countries and only charges for the data you actually use

Grab your eSIM here!

Toiletries & Wellness Essentials

I use the Tripped Travel Gear Hanging Toiletry Bag, which is a game-changer if you’re short on counter space. 

It includes a clear TSA-compliant pouch for liquids, and I use the main section for solid products like shampoo bars and toothpaste tablets.

Hair Tools: 

In addition to a small brush or comb, I pack my dual voltage dryer brush because it works best for my hair. 

Only bring a tool if you’ll actually use it!

Miscellaneous items:

• Pimple patches
  
• Blister strips
  
• Laundry detergent sheets
  
• Suction hooks
  
• Travel bidet (yes, really!)

Clothes: What I’m Packing Using the 54321 Formula

Tops (5)

• 3 T-shirts
  
• 2 Tank tops

Bottoms (4)

• 3 Pairs of shorts
  
• 1 Pair of jeans (actually lightweight jeggings from Halara)

Layers (3)

• Black cardigan
  
• Cream cardigan
  
• Light grey long sleeve top

Shoes (2)

• Sneakers for long days of walking
  
• Lightweight sandals (like Reef or Birkenstocks)

1 Extra

• Swimsuit

Travel Outfit

• Black joggers, t-shirt, and cozy sweater (doubles as a lounge set!)

Undergarments

• Pajamas
  
• 1 Bra
  
• 6 Pairs of underwear and socks (plus what I wear on the plane)

Accessories

• Silk scarf
  
• Belt

Adapting the 54321 Method for Your Trip

The beauty of the 54321 method is that it gives you a structure—but it’s totally customizable based on your style, your destination, the season, and the type of trip you’re planning.

This method isn’t about copying exactly what I packed. It’s about using the framework to build a wardrobe that works for you.

Whether you live in sundresses or love a neutral capsule full of linen and cotton, the 54321 formula gives you flexibility without overpacking.

Here’s how to think about customizing it:

Adjust for Weather and Season

• Mediterranean in summer? Swap a pair of pants and a cardigan for breezy sundresses, tank tops, and a light wrap. You’ll want breathable fabrics like linen or gauze, and comfy sandals that you can walk in all day.
  
• Northern Europe in spring or fall? Think layers. Trade a couple of shorts and tank tops for long sleeves and another pair of pants (maybe leggings or travel joggers). Add a rain-resistant layer and a scarf—it’ll go a long way in unpredictable weather.
  
• Alps or mountain towns? If you’re headed somewhere with cool evenings or altitude changes, you might need a warmer midlayer like a fleece or lightweight down jacket, plus sturdier walking shoes or trail sneakers.
  
• Cities with a dressier vibe? Paris, Milan, or Vienna? Add a chic top or jumpsuit that can go from sightseeing to a nice dinner out. Keep your sneakers sleek (white leather works well) and consider ballet flats or loafers as your second shoe.
  

Adjust for Activities

• Heavy walking days? Stick with ultra-comfy shoes and make sure all your bottoms are breathable and non-restrictive.
  
• Beach or coastal trips? You might want 2 swimsuits instead of one, and swap a pair of pants for a sarong or cover-up. Add a wide-brimmed hat or packable sunhat.
  
• Rural countryside or small towns? Lean into casual wear—looser tops, comfortable shorts or flowy pants, and something you can wear multiple times without it looking wrinkled or worn.
  
• Active itineraries with biking, hiking, or boat tours? Prioritize functional layers and performance fabrics. A lightweight rain jacket might bump out one of your “layer” slots, and you may want athletic sandals instead of flats.

Adjust for Personal Style

This method works no matter your vibe—minimalist, colorful, edgy, sporty, romantic, boho.

You just have to make sure the pieces can mix and match.

Think in terms of versatility.

If you’re not a shorts person, sub in skirts or flowy trousers.

If you’d never wear a cardigan, pick a button-up or oversized shirt that can be styled multiple ways.

And don’t forget to consider how often you’ll want to do laundry.

If you’ll have access every 5–6 days, you can stick close to the formula.

If not, you might want to pack one or two extra tops or underwear—but always aim for pieces that can work in multiple outfits.

The key is: use the formula to simplify your decisions, not restrict them.

Other Europe Essentials:

Money

I use Wise to easily spend and convert multiple currencies while traveling.

You save on conversion fees and can withdraw from many ATMs for free.

Car Rental

I book all my car rentals through DiscoverCars.

For this trip, we booked a one-way car rental from Vienna to Prague (since we’ll be traveling through Czechia before landing in Prague).

Travel Insurance

I like SafetyWing or Insubuy