Packing for a Winter Train Trip Across Europe

My Carry-On-Only Wool Layering System(My Approach to Packing for a Winter Train Trip Across Europe)

This packing system was built specifically for a winter train trip across Europe-moving city-to-city every 1-3 days, walking on cobblestones, navigating crowded platforms, and occasionally flying budget airlines. The goal was simple: stay warm, stay mobile, and never regret what was on my back.

This post breaks down my approach for packing for a winter train trip across Europe. Exactly what I packed, why it worked, and how I'd refine it next time.

This guide supports the Winter train trip across Europe master route and the Europe Travel Logistics Hub. It's written for travelers who want a system-not a novelty packing list.

The Packing Philosophy (Before the List)

Before getting into items, here are the rules that shapped every decision:

1. Carry-on only

   Trains + old cities punish rolling luggage.

2. Layering beats bulk

   One warm system works across Spain, France, Germany, and the UK.

3. Rewearability > variety

   Laundry access is unpredictable on fast routes.

4. Everything must work while standing

   Platforms, stairwells, trams, and narrow hallways.

Wool became the foundation because it:

• Regulates temperature

• Resists odor

• Dries quickly

• Performs indoors and outdoors

The Bags (3 total for 2 people)

Primary Pack

• 40L travel backpack (Osprey Fairpoint)

  Large enough for winter layers, small enough for overhead bins

Secondary Pack

• Daypack that integrates with the main bag

  Used daily in cities and as overflow during the travel days

Personal Item

• Standard backpack

  Laptop, chargers, documents, snacks

Why this worked

• Easy boarding on trains

• No overhead-bin panic

• Balanced weight distribution on long walks

Clothing System (The Core)

Outer & Mid Layers

• Weather resistant jacket (rain + wind protection)

• Wool zip-up hoodie (travel-friendly pockets, warmth without bulk)

• Beanie

• Gloves (thin but insulating)

Tops (Wool-First Strategy)

• 1 wool button-up (multi-day wear)

• 3 wool undershirts (rotation system)

• 1 heavier wool long-sleeve (cold days, base layer)

• 1 dedicated sleep shirt (mental separation matters)

Bottoms

• 1 pair wool/polyester blend travel pants (durable, neutral)

• 2 pairs of athletic shorts (sleep + spa days)

Underwear & Socks

• 3 pairs wool boxers

• 4 pairs cotton boxers

• 4 pairs wool socks

Why wool dominated

• I routinely wore shirts 2-4 days without odor

• Fewer pieces = fewer decisions

• Cold platforms → warm trains → heated cafes never felt uncomfortable

Shoes (Critical Decision)

While not glamorous, footwear was the most important choice.

What worked

• One pair of all-day walking shoes

• Waterproof or water-resistant

• Neutral enough for cities, supportive enough for long days

What I avoided

• "Fashion-only" shoes

• Multiple pairs "just in case"

If a shoe can't handle:

• Rain

• Standing on trains

• 20,000 steps

  ...it doesn't make the cut

Toiletries & Small Essentials

• Compact toiletry bag

• Quick-dry towel (surprisingly useful)

• Sunglasses

• Reusable shopping bag (groceries, overflow)

• Minimal laundry supplies (sink washes)

Tech & Travel Tools

• Laptop

• Multi-device charging brick

• Phone cables

• Portable battery (non-negotiable for train days)

• Fanny pack (passport, wallet, phone)

Why a fanny pack mattered

• Hands free on platforms

• Easy access during ticket checks

• Reduced stress in crowded areas

What I Didn't Pack (Intentionally)

• Multiple coats

• "Just in case" outfits

• Heavy sweaters

• Extra shoes

Every unused item is weight you carry every single day.

How This Packing System Performed in Real Life

On Trains

• Easy to board, stand, shift cars

• No fear of overhead bin limits

• Comfortable for long rides

In Cities

• Warm outdoors, not overheated indoors

• Quick hotel exits

• No repacking chaos

With Budget Airlines

• Met weight limit for checked bag

• Fit carry-on limits

• No unexpected fees

What I'd Change Next Time

• Fewer cotton boxers (more wool instead)

• Slightly lighter outer jacket

• No fanny pack if outer layer jacket has enough interior pockets

That's it-which tells me the system worked

Who This Packing List Is For

This setups is ideal if you:

• Travel by train across multiple countries

• Walk everywhere

• Change cities frequently

• Want one bag, no compromises

• Travel in winter or shoulder season

It's not ideal if you:

• Want outfit variety for photos

• Travel exclusively by taxi

• Stay in one city for weeks

Next Reads

• Winter train trip across Europe (full route + lessons)

• Europe Travel Logistics Hub (booking, transit, mistakes)

• City guides: Barcelona, Strasbourg, Paris, London, Edinburgh