2. Luggage Essentials
1. Choose Your Bag Combination Wisely
For an Atomic Trip, we advise either:
- One medium or large-sized checked suitcase plus a daypack/backpack.
or
- One carry-on suitcase plus a daypack/backpack.
This approach balances weight limits with flexibility. A medium or large-sized bag handles seven nights of clothes and souvenirs. A daypack/backpack holds your in-flight essentials and daily necessities.
2. Look for Durable, Lightweight Luggage
Opt for suitcases with reinforced corners, durable wheels, and expandable zippers. Spinner wheels make station transfers effortless, but mind the cobblestone, which can wreak havoc on your wheels. Keep the total checked bag weight under 20 kg to avoid airline fees.
3. Seasonal & Climate Considerations
3. Pack for Distinct Climates by Destination and Season
Each Atomic Trip is destination-specific and generally lasts eight days and seven nights. You’ll prepare for Ireland, Paris & Brussels, or Italy, and pack according to the season your trip departs. Below are the typical temperature ranges (roughly 10 °C/20 °F increments) so you know what to expect and how to dress.
3.1 Ireland Trips
- Summer (June–August): 15–25 °C (60–75 °F) by day; 5–15 °C (40–60 °F) at night.
- Fall (September–November): 10–20 °C (40–70 °F) by day; 5–10 °C (35–50 °F) at night.
- Winter (December–February): 5–10 °C (40–50 °F) by day; 0–5 °C (32–40 °F) at night.
- Spring (March–May): 10–15 °C (50–60 °F) by day; 5–10 °C (40–50 °F) at night.
Note: Ireland is famously wet and windy year-round. A fully waterproof outer layer and mid-weight insulating layer are vital, especially for castle stays and outdoor excursions like our Carrigogunnell ruins hike or visit to the Cliffs Of Moher.
3.2 Paris & Brussels Trips
- Summer (June–August): 20–30 °C (70–95 °F) by day; 10–20 °C (50–70 °F) at night.
- Fall (September–November): 10–20 °C (50–75 °F) by day; 5–10 °C (40–50 °F) at night.
- Winter (December–February): 0–10 °C (32–50 °F) by day; –5–5 °C (20–40 °F) at night.
- Spring (March–May): 10–20 °C (50–70 °F) by day; 5–10 °C (40–50 °F) at night.
Note: Showers can pop up any month in Paris and Brussels. Even in summer, carry your shell jacket or umbrella. Layering is essential for museum days in Paris and canal-side strolls in Brussels.
3.3 Italy Trips
- Summer (June–August): 25–35 °C (75–95 °F) by day; 15–25 °C (60–75 °F) at night.
- Fall (September–November): 15–25 °C (60–75 °F) by day; 5–15 °C (40–60 °F) at night.
- Winter (December–February): 5–15 °C (40–60 °F) by day; 0–5 °C (32–40 °F) at night (colder in the north, milder in the south).
- Spring (March–May): 15–25 °C (60–75 °F) by day; 5–15 °C (40–60 °F) at night.
Note: Italy’s summer heat can be intense, especially in Rome and other areas of the south, pack sun protection and breathable fabrics. In winter, northern cities like Milan can feel brisk; a mid-weight coat will suffice.
By aligning your packing list to the specific destination and season, you ensure your one checked bag (or carry-on) plus daypack contains exactly what you need, no more, no less, for a perfectly tailored, affordable all-inclusive European vacation.
4. Layering Is Your Best Friend
When you embark on an affordable all-inclusive European vacation with Atomic Trips, you’ll inevitably encounter various temperatures and weather conditions based on the season and location. Layering your clothing allows you to adjust quickly throughout the day, whether you’re touring the windswept cliffs of Moher, strolling the Louvre in Paris, or exploring the vastness of Rome. Here’s how to master the three-layer system and pack smart for every season.
4.1. Base Layer: Moisture Management and Comfort
Your base layer sits directly against the skin; its primary job is moisture management. Ideal materials include:
- Merino Wool: Naturally antimicrobial, odor-resistant, and temperature-regulating. A merino T-shirt or lightweight leggings keep you warm in a brisk Irish morning and cool in a sunny Italian afternoon.
- Synthetic Fabrics: Polyester or nylon blends wick sweat away and dry quickly, perfect for high-energy days like hiking in Killarney or taking a walking tour in Brussels.
Pack two base-layer tops and one pair of base-layer bottoms if you anticipate chilly mornings or strenuous activities. Consider adding a thicker base-layer like thermal wear if you expect consistently low temperatures (for example, a December trip to Ireland).
4.2. Mid Layer: Insulation and Versatility
The mid layer provides insulation by trapping warm air close to your body. Depending on your destination and season, choose from:
- Lightweight Fleece or Microfleece Jacket: Excellent for autumn walks through Ireland or early spring mornings in Paris.
- Merino Wool Sweater or Vest: Offers warmth without bulk, ideal under a shell jacket in Irish drizzles or layered over a T-shirt in cooler Italian evenings.
Aim for one versatile mid-layer that can pair with any base layer. If you expect consistently low temperatures (for example, a December trip to Ireland), consider adding a second, thicker mid-layer like a packable down vest.
4.3. Outer Layer: Weather Protection
Your outer layer shields you from wind, rain, and snow. A high-quality shell jacket should be:
- Waterproof/Breathable: Look for Gore-Tex or a similar membrane to keep rain out while allowing sweat to escape.
- Lightweight and Packable: You will want to stow it easily in your daypack when exploring brings the day’s heat.
- Adjustable: Features like a hood, adjustable cuffs, and hem allow you to customize the fit and seal out drafts.
For winter trips, choose a shell with a built-in liner or add a packable insulated jacket. In summer, a thin windbreaker works well for cool morning train rides.
4.4. Putting It All Together
A typical day on your plan a group trip itinerary might look like this:
- Morning: Spring temperatures in Paris hover around 15 °C (60°F). Wear your merino base layer, fleece mid layer, and waterproof shell, or carry an umbrella in case of rain.
- Afternoon: As the sun warms the streets to 25 °C (75°F), shed the shell and mid layer, leaving just the base layer.
- Evening: Evening breezes in the city of lights cause temperatures to dip to 12 °C (55°F). Reapply your mid-layer and shell for comfortable canal-side dining.
Mixing and matching these three layers allows you to adapt to weather changes across Ireland, Paris, Brussels, Gouda, and Italy, ensuring a comfortable, stress-free experience on your affordable, all-inclusive European vacation.
Remember that this is subject to the season and one’s personal preference. For instance, in Ireland, December and January can be very cold, though it rarely snows, it is possible. Some people from warmer climates may not be used to the temperature and find it helps to bundle up with heavy, warm layers. Some, from colder climates, may find the temperature tolerable and pack lighter layers. I am the former.
4. Clothing Staples
5. Versatile Tops & Bottoms
When packing for your affordable all-inclusive European vacation, choose clothing that transitions seamlessly from daytime sightseeing to evening events. We recommend the following staples:
- Three to Four Neutral Tops: Select shirts or blouses in black, navy, or gray, easy to mix and match, and ideal for layering under a mid-layer.
- Two to Three Long-Sleeve Options: A button-up shirt and a lightweight sweater provide warmth and polish for cooler mornings or air-conditioned restaurants.
- Two to Four Pairs of Bottoms: Two pairs of comfortable travel pants, jeans or skirts, and tailored trousers or dresses for a slightly dressier look.
Some evenings on tour call for a touch of elegance. When you plan a group trip with Atomic Trips, you might find yourself:
- Dining at a 15th-century Irish castle during a medieval-style feast with food sourced from the castle grounds.
- Enjoying special group dinners in Parisian bistros or upscale restaurants in Florence.
For these occasions, we encourage you to dress up, whether that means donning modern evening wear or embracing the fun of medieval attire. Darker, muted colors photograph beautifully and keep the focus on the setting; however, if you love to stand out, feel free to bring a bright accent piece (a bold scarf or statement top) to pop in our professional photos and the trip highlight video.
Remember, the Atomic Team captures high-quality images and a cinematic highlight reel at every ruin, monument, and landmark. Packing versatile, camera-friendly pieces ensures you look your best in these lasting memories, no matter which destination you’re exploring.
6. Weather-Appropriate Extras
- Winter: Wool scarf, thermal socks, insulated gloves, heavy coat, thermal underwear.
- Summer: Quick-dry shorts, sunhat, UV-protective shirt, water bottle, sunglasses.
- Spring/Autumn: Lightweight scarf, foldable umbrella, rain jacket/poncho, thermal underwear.
5. Footwear Selection
7. Choose Shoes by Activity
Shoes can make or break your group tour. Base your choices on our itinerary:
- Ireland (outdoor activities): Waterproof hiking or combat boots with ankle support. In Ireland, expect some potential muddy paths and, of course, rain. Be prepared to go off-road!
- Paris, Brussels, or Italy (city touring): Comfortable walking shoes with good arch support. Cobblestone everywhere! Be prepared for uneven cobblestones and plenty of stairs.
- Evening events: Lightweight loafers, flats, or heels that pack small for the classier moments.
8. Waterproofing & Care
Use a quality waterproof spray before departure. Stash a small shoe-cleaning cloth to manage muddy trails in Ireland or rainy days in Brussels.
There is a reason why the Emerald Isle is so green and lush: the rain. For waterproofing shoes and boots, waterproofing sprays, waxes, and oils are all effective options. Sprays, like Crep Protect, Scotchgard, and Nikwax, offer a quick and easy way to protect against water and stains. Waxes, like Sno-Seal, provide a durable, long-lasting barrier, especially for leather boots. Oils, such as mink oil, can condition leather and add a layer of water resistance.
6. Toiletries & Health Supplies
9. Streamline Your Toiletries
Use travel-size (100ml) containers for shampoo, conditioner, and body wash. A hanging toiletry bag keeps everything accessible in shared bathrooms. Bring:
- Toothbrush, toothpaste, floss.
- Travel sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher).
- Minimal makeup and moisturizer.
10. Bring a Basic Health Kit
- Prescribed medications in labeled containers.
- Pain relievers (ibuprofen).
- Motion sickness tablets for long coach rides.
- Band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and allergy medicine.
7. Tech Gear & Travel Apps
11. Electronics to Pack
- Universal travel adapter with USB ports. Adapters vary between Ireland and Europe. Ireland uses Type G outlets, while mainland Europe uses Type C.
- Portable charger (Recommended 20,000 mAh).
- Noise-canceling headphones or earbuds.
- Compact camera or smartphone with an extra SD card.
12. Essential Travel Apps
- The Atomic Trips App for general questions, planning, and scheduling.
- Trip WhatsApp Group for real-time itinerary updates and support, and to stay connected with fellow travelers and guides.
- Google Maps or Citymapper for transit directions.
- Rail Planner by Eurail for offline train schedules.
- XE Currency for quick currency conversions.
8. Documents & Money Management
13. Streamline Your Paperwork
The Atomic Trips team handles all bookings and local logistics, so you only need:
- A valid passport (plus a photocopy stored separately).
United States citizens do not require visas for Ireland, France, Belgium, the Netherlands, or Italy. Attendees from other countries should verify visa requirements on their government’s official website.
14. Carrying Cash & Cards
- Bring €200 in small denominations for markets and tips.
- Use a fee-free travel debit or credit card like Wise or Capital One for ATM withdrawals across Europe.
9. Packing Strategies & Hacks
15. Use Packing Cubes
Color-coded cubes compress garments and organize outfits by day or activity. For example, pack your hiking outfit in one cube and city touring clothes in another. Another excellent recommendation is vacuum travel bags. There are plenty of options, and they are incredibly valuable for saving that extra bit of space.
16. Roll, Don’t Fold
Rolling your clothes into tight rolls can significantly maximize space and reduce wrinkles. Slip socks and underwear into shoe cavities or other nooks and crannies.
** Not So Secret, Secret Insider Tip**
Remove the cushion inside a travel neck pillow and refill it with underwear and socks. Not only does it still function as a neck pillow, but you are also freeing up extra space in your luggage and backpack, and a pillow does not count as luggage for airlines.
17. Wear Bulky Items
Travel in your heaviest shoes and coat to free up suitcase room. It may be tempting to travel in your comfiest clothes, but to save some extra space, you may need to sacrifice some comfort. We recommend wearing hiking boots, coats, or heavy items for your travels to give you that space in your luggage.
10. Printable Packing Checklist
| Category |
Items |
| Luggage |
1 checked bag or carry-on; travel backpack; packing cubes; luggage lock |
| Clothing |
3 tops; 2 long sleeves; 2 pants; 1 dress/skirt; underwear; socks; pajamas |
| Outerwear |
Base layer; mid layer; waterproof shell; seasonal extras |
| Footwear |
Hiking boots; walking shoes; evening shoes; waterproof spray |
| Toiletries |
Travel-size shampoo/conditioner; toothbrush; sunscreen; minimal makeup |
| Health |
Prescriptions; pain relievers; motion sickness meds; band-aids; antiseptic wipes |
| Tech |
Adapter; power bank; headphones; camera/smartphone; extra chargers |
| Documents & Money |
Passport; travel insurance card; €200 cash; travel debit/credit card |
| Extras |
Reusable water bottle; collapsible tote; small gift/icebreaker; notebook; pen |
