Packing for Europe: 4 Day Weekends
After nearly three years of travel across 24 countries, we've perfected our packing and travel routine. We prefer checked luggage for convenience, especially with a toddler, and rely on packing cubes, a toiletry bag, and essential travel items to stay organized. We also have a few go-to toddler travel hacks, like using a lightweight carseat and stroller. Simple airport tips and strategies, such as color-coded passports and PriorityPass for lounges, also help make our trips run smoothly.
Europe Travel Essentials
After nearly three years in Italy and traveling across 24 countries and countless cities, I’ve learned a few travel essentials. First, don’t forget the right plug adapters—an all-in-one adapter with USB ports is a lifesaver. If you're bringing motorized devices, like a blow dryer, get a transformer. For renting cars, many countries require an International Driving Permit (IDP). Keep an eye on visa updates for the UK and EU, and consider using e-sims for affordable data while abroad. These simple tips will make your travels smoother!
The Netherlands
We have been wanting to do a longer trip to The Netherlands ever since we moved abroad. We visited the small town where my partner’s grandparents are from on a day trip from Cologne, Germany but hadn’t spent a significant amount of time exploring the country.
We ended up with a four day weekend over Easter and found decently priced flights into Eindhoven, the airport in the south. I will say: this was not the best time of year to plan a last minute trip. Not only was it a holiday weekend, but it was peak tulip season. The prices of things like AirBnB’s and hotels…made me want to cry. But we made it work!
Malta
We had an impromptu 3-day weekend in Malta, flying in from Naples for some much-needed relaxation. We stayed at the Hilton in St. Julian’s, which had amazing views, a fantastic pool, and great service. We spent Friday by the pool, then wandered around Valetta before heading to Mdina the next day. The highlight was definitely our private boat tour around Comino and Gozo—swimming in the Blue Lagoon, exploring sea caves, and just soaking in the beauty of the islands. Malta was such a surprise, and we can't wait to go back!
Hungary: Budapest
With its rich history, stunning architecture, and abundance of kid-friendly activities, Budapest proved to be the perfect destination for a long weekend. From soaking in the Széchenyi Thermal Baths to exploring interactive museums and breathtaking city views, we found something for every member of the family. Check out this post for travel tips, hidden gems, and lessons learned (including the realities of traveling with a toddler!).
Austria: Vienna // Slovakia: Bratislava
Vienna completely took me by surprise with how quickly and easily I fell in love with it. We were only there for a four-day weekend (as per usual), but I’d go back in a heartbeat to keep exploring. After a quick flight from Naples and an easy train ride into the city, we checked in, grabbed a bite to eat, and started getting ready for the main event—the Officers’ Ball at the Hofburg Palace. It’s been on my Europe bucket list since moving here, and thanks to my mom flying in to babysit, we got to experience every magical moment.