Everything You Need To Backpack Through Europe

11.10.2023 - 16:13 / matadornetwork.com

Having the right gear on an international trip is the key to staying organized. For a backpacking trip around Europe, compact and condensed is the goal. Here is the ultimate gear guide for backpacking in Europe to keep you moving efficiently and with less stress. Each of these items can be purchased through Amazon Prime via the links here, saving you both time and shipping costs.

We hope you love the travel gear for Europe we recommend! Just so you know, Matador may collect a small commission from the links on this page if you decide to book a stay. Listed prices are accurate as of the time of publication.

Photo: Osprey

For a backpacking trip in Europe, you’ll need a durable and comfortable backpack. There are two types of backpacks to consider before you hit the road: a “backpacking” backpack, like the ones you see many international travelers using, or a trekking backpack like you’d bring on an overnight hiking trip. A 40- to 65-liter “backpacking” backpack like the Osprey Farpoint 55 or the Osprey Fairview Trek 50 (made for women) is the perfect travel companion. These versatile packs offer a large zippered panel for easy access to the main compartment (it opens like a suitcase), and also come with a daypack that you can fit your laptop in. If you’re planning on doing outdoor adventuring while on the road, a trekking backpack like the Osprey Atmos AG 65 for men and Aura AG 65 for women is also a great choice for its comfortable straps that can double as your travel pack as well if you don’t mind a bit of extra bulkiness around the hips.

Price: $150 — $300

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Photo: Fjallraven

Unless you’re going to be carrying your backpack every hour of every day, you’ll need a day bag. If your main backpack doesn’t come with one like the Osprey Farpoint/Fairview mentioned above, having a smaller bag to carry your smaller items when your pack is sitting at the hostel is essential. This Fjallraven Kanken Pack from the Swedish sustainable gear company is the perfect balance between functional and stylish (something that is nice to consider when you’re in Europe). It’s big enough to fit a camera, your water bottle, a pair of shades, and a sweater, but it’s also compact enough to fold into your larger backpack when you’re not using it. Plus, it’s available in a variety of colors.

Price: $80.00

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Bose noise-cancelling headphones are a top-tier choice for travelers. They have been a top pick for years for their ability to cancel out outside noise effectively. Bose is an ideal companion for travel, particularly during long flights, train rides, or noisy accommodations. They connect via Bluetooth and easily sync with any device, so enjoy your favorite music, podcasts, or audiobooks uninterrupted, no matter where