Packing
The 7 kg City Break: Pack for a Week in a Backpack
By Tomáš Dvořák · Published 2026-01-30
Skip checked bags, skip baggage fees, skip waiting. The packing list that fits any 3–7 day European city trip.
The whole game is one rule: three colours, everything mixes. Pick a base colour (navy, olive, grey) plus one accent, and every top works with every bottom.
Merino is the cheat code. One merino t-shirt survives 3–4 wears without smell, which cuts your packing list in half.
Shoes are the enemy of light packing. Wear your bulkiest pair to the airport; pack nothing else beyond one light pair or sandals.
Toiletries: decant into 100 ml bottles or buy at the destination. Everything except contacts and medicine is replaceable anywhere in Europe.
A 35–40 L backpack fits the 7 kg hand-luggage limit of every major European airline, and you'll board in five minutes while others check bags.
Last updated: 2026-01-30
Travel requirements and regulations can change. Always verify current information with the relevant government authority, embassy, airline or official provider before travelling.