3 Shoes to Pack On Any Trip to Europe

It recently dawned on me how strategic and selective I’ve become when it comes to deciding what shoes to bring along on a trip. And rightfully so!  These babies are easily some of the heaviest items we pack (and usually the largest contributor to overweight baggage fees). So how do you narrow it down? I recommend three shoes to pack for Europe.

For starters, it obviously depends on the destination (a week in the mountains is going to look vastly different than one at the beach). But I’ve learned from my travels that even if you’re visiting a variety of climates and countries, there are some fail-safe options you’ll likely want to bring along anywhere. 

With all the traveling I do for my business and hosting Atlas Adventures trips, I’d like to think I’ve learned a thing or two when it comes to functional footwear abroad. So if you’re planning to hop across the pond anytime soon, allow me to spare you some blisters + unnecessary luggage weight. 

Whether traveling or home in London, I average five miles of walking every single day (often closer to seven and sometimes up to 12!) so heels really don’t make sense while you’re in Europe. I know they can make an outfit pop, but take my word on this. I assure you that you can still look chic in just about any outfit (and sans the pain) with only three simple pairs of flats. Still not convinced? Let’s get specific about the three pairs of shoes to pack for Europe. 

1. A SMART LOAFER

Headed to the theatre? A nice dinner? Drinks with a European? Any activity where a heel would serve you something a bit more dressy than usual, I believe a smart loafer will also do the trick. You can be chic + classic with a neutral pair. Depending on the pair, I think they pair well with a tailored pair of slacks, jeans or even a dress. I have had this pair in taupe for years and they never let me down.

2. ATHLETIC/LIFESTYLE SHOES

Not all athletic footwear is created equal. In fact, I’d argue that this trend has expanded far beyond athleisure. I love the juxtaposition of mixing my tennis shoes with something a bit more formal or feminine. Not only can it make an outfit more interesting, but your feet will love you on those days when you’re logging double-digit miles. These are also great for your travel days in case you find yourself rushing to make a connection. This trend isn’t going anywhere.

3. SEASONAL FLAT

Obviously time of year and climate are factors to consider, so let’s talk seasonal flats. 

FALL/WINTER: BOOTS

If you’re traveling in Europe in cooler temperatures, I’d advise a pair of ankle boots (they don’t weigh as much and aren’t as bulky as ones that cover your calves). Think about the clothes you’re packing to determine what color would suit your wardrobe. A bonus would be if they’re water-resistant or waterproof in case of rain.

FALL/SPRING: BALLET FLAT

Ballet flats can honestly be worn any time of the year and are one of the most comfortable shoes on the market! Wear them with dresses, pants, shorts- you name it. Similar to my remark about boots, consider if the outfits you’re packing will pair better with neutrals or a pop of color. I have a few pairs from Margeaux that never let me down.

 

SPRING/ SUMMER: SANDAL

With temperatures at their all-time high, I often don’t want socks anywhere near my feet! Opt for sandals that are comfortable enough to walk in and that are versatile enough to wear the same pair to the beach or with a dress to dinner. A huarache sandal is another great option that I’ve worn all over Europe.

So there you have it! I highly recommend traveling with minimal pairs of shoes and am confident you’ll be happy you did!

This post contains affiliate links that I may earn a small commission from, at no cost to you. 

xx

Whitney

The Perks of Hiring a Travel Advisor

As the travel industry evolves and travel demand continues to increase, more people are interested in working with a travel advisor. I thought it would be a good time to talk more about what the Atlas team can do for you when planning a trip and the perks of hiring a travel advisor. In today's fast-paced world, where time is of the essence, a travel advisor can save you precious hours and provide expert guidance, insider knowledge, and personalized recommendations to ensure that your next journey is unforgettable. Enlisting the services of a travel advisor can be one of the best decisions you make for your travel experiences.

I’ve spent most of the last decade traveling and have now visited over 40 countries and 150 cities to date. I’ve used these experiences to immerse myself in local culture, build relationships with travel vendors, and find the best aspects of any destination. Many of the travel questions you’re asking yourself while planning any trip are likely experiences my team has lived through first-hand. Whether you want someone to plan your entire trip, or you just want help with a few logistical questions, my team is here to help your travel dreams become a reality.

My team leverages our personal relationships and robust network of travel partners to ensure our clients receive VIP status and have the best trip possible. Our goal is to elevate your itinerary based on your dreams and preferences. These are just a few of the perks you receive when booking hotels through us:

• Room upgrades 

• Complimentary breakfasts

• Food & Beverage Credits

• Spa treatments

• Welcome amenities

• Early check-in/ late check-out

Your trip will be custom-tailored to meet your personal interests, travel style, and budget. You’ll have access to destination recommendations and need-to-know information (from our own experiences, our travel partners, and from on-the-ground locals we are frequently in contact with). Outside of our own experiences and knowledge, we also benefit from our even broader support from Embark Beyond bespoke travel collective based in New York. This allows us to tap into even more locations outside of our own team’s vast knowledge. 

While I hear from customers how much they’ve enjoyed planning their own trips in the past, they also mention how exhausting it can be. If you do an internet or social media search of the places you want to visit, you’ll be inundated with thousands of responses that will take hours to wade through. It can quickly become overwhelming and frustrating. Working with a travel advisor saves you time and includes reputable recommendations tailored to your interests. Time is one of our most precious resources and we’re able to give you back the hours, days, and weeks you could spend planning a trip.

If you’re planning an adventure-based trip like a safari or a hiking trip to the Dolomites, even more important details need to be planned for. We’re able to anticipate many of those important details that add up over time such as identifying the best airport to fly into, the best transfers, how to navigate public transportation, cultural considerations, and more. One of our favorite aspects is recommending special experiences that you might not have considered before such as access to premium event and concert tickets, private excursions, and exclusive access to museums. Those special moments are the core memories you’ll carry with you long after the trip has ended.

 It can be extremely overwhelming to plan a trip while also juggling your daily life. Let us take off some of the challenges of planning a trip so that you can truly enjoy your time without any worries. If you’re ready to access the perks of hiring a travel advisor, schedule a consult and we can get started planning a trip that aligns with your vision and preferences.

10 Travel Essentials for Europe

I’m often asked what to pack for a trip to Europe and I’d like to think I’m somewhat of a pro considering I travel SO often for work. At one point, I lived out of a single suitcase for four months while traveling in Europe several years ago. So far this summer I’ve traveled to Sweden, Greece, Italy, and France. I never leave home without these 10 essentials every traveler needs in Europe.

1. LUGGAGE TAG

Traveling in Europe means your suitcase is likely to be dragged around even more than it is domestically (consider planes, trains, taxis, ferries- you name it). Those flimsy airline tags are bound to rip off, so invest in a chic + sturdy leather luggage tag like this monogrammed one from Paravel or this one from Aspinal of London.

2. DURABLE LUGGAGE

I'm asked about luggage a lot. And rightfully so- it's the most necessary item for any traveler. I've learned that the cheaper the luggage, the shorter the lifespan. I invested in a Rimowa suitcase a few years ago and have not regretted it. They have various sizes to suit your needs. Always check the measurements against airline regulations. I love that Rimowa has a chart you can reference to ensure you have the appropriate size. Your best bet for luggage that will last (the case, the zipper, the wheels, etc.) even in the harshest conditions on trains, planes, and automobiles, will be brands like Rimowa, Victorinox, or Tumi. Away luggage is also a great option at a lower price point. I always recommend brands that offer a lifetime warranty as we all know how much our luggage gets knocked about when traveling.

3. CASHMERE SCARF

Temperatures while traveling are constantly changing-- especially in Europe. Light layers are key, and you can't go wrong with a cashmere scarf (especially this birch color that goes with everything). If you’re looking for a silk cashmere scarf, this one is beautiful as well.  Wear it like a traditional scarf or wrap it around you like a blanket on the plane/train. Either way, you'll be so glad you have it. 

4. DePuffing Mask

Travel is so hard on your skin: the dehydration from airplane altitude, the ever-changing climates, the list goes on. To help with the puffiness, I use these under-eye gels and the Clairins depuffing mask. I swear by these to help my skin bounce back. The SK-II mask is a great option if you’d rather pack a sheet mask to save on packing space. To protect from sun damage, I use 35 Thousand sunscreen here in the UK, but Elta MD is also a great option for those stateside. It can be easy to let our skincare routine slip while we’re traveling but I’ve become more vigilant as I get older.

5. CREDIT CARD CASE

Over the last few years, I found that instead of a larger wallet, I prefer a thin card case to keep my ID and cards handy. Between that and being able to tap to pay for the tube with my phone, I don’t really need anything bigger. Plus, I try not to carry much with me when I’m out for the day other than the essentials. My Celine case is no longer available but the Alfred card case from Sezane and the Monogram Ziptop case from YSL are similar.

6. PORTABLE PHONE CHARGER

We all know the struggle to keep an iPhone battery charged, but this pain point seems to be amplified even more while I'm in Europe. When one device serves as your camera, map, and means of communication (among many other things), it's naturally going to be in your hands almost non-stop. So instead of having heart palpitations when your "10% battery remaining" notification comes on the moment you're about to see the Mona Lisa, just pull out a handy portable iPhone charger for an additional battery to save the day. I like this one from Anker for a fuller charge and they also have a wireless version if you don’t have the connector cords. For a smaller option, this one plugs right into your phone. I’ve had friends use this for concerts and sporting events where there are bag size restrictions.

7. LIFESTYLE WALKING SHOES

Europeans know a thing (or 20) about stylish footwear. One reason why? They do TONS of walking.  While heels may look cute, they're not the most practical option. To fit in like a local, pick up a pair of stylish lifestyle shoes like these Jack trainers from Sezane, Court sneakers from Everlane, or the  Adidas Sambas you can wear with just about any everyday outfit. I’ve seen these all over London and Paris lately.

8. PASSPORT CASE

I used to think a passport case was unnecessary and that it just looked cute. But it does extend your passport life when it inevitably ends up in the bottom of your carry-on bag. This one can be monogrammed and it would make a perfect gift for a fellow travel lover. I also love this stone-colored case from Cuyana. Overall, I've found it to be a form of expression (similar to a lot of things we carry) for one of my most prized possessions- so why wouldn't I want one?

9. WEEKENDER OR OVERNIGHT TOTE

In addition to durable luggage, be sure to have a solid carry-on tote. I have both this weekender bag and overnight tote from Cuyana and both are wonderful. I also use this monogrammed duffel from Leatherology a lot. On a recent girls' trip to Provence, we all gushed over my friend’s weekender from Mark & Graham. Sadly, this brand is currently only available in the States. Different airlines have different allowances for carry-on baggage, but these are allowed (and if you don't get a personal item, they'll also fit your purse). Additional perk? I'm using them for shorter trips when I can leave my big suitcase behind.

10. AIRPODS

I use my AirPods every. single. day. On a plane or a train. Working on my laptop in a café or while walking and exploring the city streets. They have active noise cancellation, which is essential to me. They're in my ears more often than not some days and I don’t know what I would do without them. I have my eye on this Airpod case from Cuyana to keep them in when not in use. 

This post contains affiliate links that I may earn a small commission from, at no cost to you.