Your Ultimate Packing Guide for Interrailing

Embarking on an Interrailing or Eurailing adventure across Europe is an exciting journey, offering a chance to immerse yourself in diverse cultures, explore new countries, and create memories that last a lifetime.

To make your trip as smooth and enjoyable as possible, mastering the art of efficient packing is essential. Avoid carrying anything that doesn’t serve a clear purpose. If an item doesn’t provide practical value, leave it behind—it only takes up valuable space. As you travel, you’ll quickly learn what’s necessary and what isn’t.

Before departure, conduct a packing trial run and double-check your list, ensuring you have all crucial documents in order—because no matter what you pack, your passport and tickets are non-negotiable! That’s why we’ve created an “interrailing packing guide”

Why efficient packing matters during interrailing:
Comfort, Mobility, and Security – You’ll be constantly moving your bag—on trains, through stations, and to accommodations. A lighter, well-organized pack makes traveling far less tiring and gives you peace of mind by reducing the risk of theft. Smaller, manageable bags are also easier to safeguard in busy areas.

Limited Space – Trains often offer limited luggage space, particularly in the seating area. A well-packed bag takes up less room, ensuring that you won’t inconvenience fellow travelers.

Flexibility – With a well-packed, easy-to-carry bag, you can take spontaneous detours or explore cities between train connections without being hindered by bulky luggage. You’ll be ready to adapt to changing weather or activities without overpacking.

Here’s a comprehensive Interrailing packing guide to ensure you’re fully prepared for your interrailing journey:

Selecting the Right Luggage

• Backpack (40-60 liters) for your main gear
• Daypack for everyday use
• Money belt or hidden pouch

Packing Essentials

Documents and Money

• Interrail Pass (activated and secure)
• Passport (valid for at least six months after your return)
• Travel insurance details
• Visa information (if applicable)
• Driver’s license (additional ID)
• Credit/debit cards (inform your bank beforehand)
• Cash (both Euros and local currency)
• Emergency contacts (written separately from your phone)

Clothing

• T-shirts or tops (mix of short and long sleeve)
• Comfortable pants or jeans (dark colors for practicality)
• Jacket or fleece (for cool evenings or train air-conditioning)
• Waterproof jacket or poncho (compact for rain)
• Underwear (quick-dry fabrics ideal)
• Socks (mix of regular and hiking)
• Sleepwear (for overnight journeys)
• Swimwear
• Workout attire

Footwear

• Comfortable walking shoes
• Sandals or flip-flops
• Optional: 1 pair of dress shoes for upscale occasions

Toiletries and Personal Care

• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Deodorant
• Shampoo, conditioner, body wash, soap (solid bars to save space)
• Moisturizer, sunscreen, lip balm (with SPF)
• Hairbrush or comb
• Razor and shaving cream
• Feminine hygiene items
• Nail clippers/tweezers
• Prescription meds (in original packaging, with prescription copy)
• First-aid kit (pain relievers, plasters, antiseptic wipes)

Electronics and Gadgets

• Smartphone (offline maps and travel apps)
• Power bank
• Universal adapter
• Headphones
• E-reader or book
• Camera (if preferred)
• Portable Wi-Fi device
• Padlock (for hostel lockers)
• Reusable water bottle
• Travel pillow, eye mask, and earplugs
• Microfiber towel
• Plastic bags (for wet clothes)

Miscellaneous

• Notebook and pen (for journaling or notes)
• Playing cards or travel games
• Sunglasses or hat
• Compact travel umbrella
• Basic sewing kit
• Tissues, wet wipes, and hand sanitizer

You’ve had the “what TO pack” interrailing packing guide”, so here’s the “what NOT to pack” list!

What Not to Pack- Packing guide

• Expensive jewelry or sentimental items
• Excessive shoes (one pair of walking shoes and sandals should suffice)
• Full-sized toiletries (they take up too much space)
• Overpacked clothing (laundry is available during your trip)
• Heavy guidebooks (use digital versions instead)

Packing Tips for your interrailing packing guide

• The “Rule of 3”: Pack three of most clothing items (excluding underwear and socks). One to wear, one to wash, and one spare.
• Bundle Wrapping: Layer smaller items inside larger ones to minimize wrinkles and maximize space.
• Packing Cubes: Organize your belongings with lightweight bags to compress clothes and maintain organization.
• Multi-purpose Clothing: Opt for items that serve multiple purposes (e.g., a sarong as a beach towel, blanket, or cover-up).
• Quick-dry Fabrics: Lightweight, quick-drying clothes reduce bulk and allow for easier washing.
• Compression Sacks: Great for bulky items like jackets or sleeping bags.
• Wear Bulky Items: Save space by wearing your heaviest items (like boots and jackets) on travel days.
• Digital Over Physical: Switch to e-books, downloaded guides, and digital document copies to save space.
• Laundry Plan: Pack a small amount of detergent and a portable clothesline.
• Use Every Bit of Space: Stuff socks into shoes or fill other nooks in your bag to maximize space.
• Lightweight Gear: Prioritize lightweight, durable gear when shopping for travel essentials.
• Practice Packing: Test your bag before departure to ensure it’s not too heavy or hard to access.

Adapt this interrailing packing guide to fit your specific needs, and remember, you can always pick up missing items along the way. Often, the best experiences come from unexpected moments, so leave room for spontaneity and enjoy the freedom of your travels!

Happy Interrailing! 😀