Intentional Packing for Paris: What I Packed in My Carry On
How I Pack Minimally (But Effortlessly) for Europe
When it comes to traveling to Europe, my suitcase is always a carry-on. Not because I’m trying to win any minimalist medals but because traveling light allows me to travel well. Intentional, minimal, and effortlessly elevated—every piece I pack has a purpose (and more than one outfit moment 👏).
Here’s why I always pack minimally when heading to Europe, and how it actually makes the entire experience better:
✔️ More clarity, less decision fatigue
With fewer options in my suitcase, getting dressed each day feels effortless. Every piece I pack is part of a mix-and-match wardrobe I’ve thought through—so outfit decisions are quick and stylish. Instead of wasting time figuring out what to wear, I get to enjoy my trip and feel confident doing it.
✔️ Less to lug around (hello Parisian streets!)
Europe’s charm often comes with narrow sidewalks, stairs-without-elevators, and cobblestone streets that are beautiful but brutal on overstuffed luggage. A lightweight carry-on means I can move more freely, whether I’m catching a train, hailing an Uber, or checking into a boutique hotel. It also helps me feel less stressed—I’m not dragging half my closet across the continent.
✔️ Easy airport & train travel
Between airport security, layovers, and hopping on trains, packing light is a game changer. I can skip the baggage carousel entirely, keep my essentials close, and adapt quickly to delays or gate changes. When you’re traveling between cities, the ease of rolling a carry-on onboard vs. checking a large bag is priceless. I’ve lost my luggage more than once and have learned the hard way that lugging around huge bags in Europe is not something I like to do anymore.
✔️ You actually wear what you love
Let’s be honest—we often overpack, but only wear our favorite 20%. By being intentional with my packing, I only bring pieces I love to wear and feel great in. That means less clutter in my suitcase and my mind, and more space for meaningful experiences.
Packing minimally isn’t about doing less—it’s about doing it with purpose.
Whether it’s Paris in the spring or Italy in the summer, traveling light helps me stay present, feel chic, and enjoy the journey.
✈️ Paris Travel Capsule: Carry-On Checklist
A week of outfits, mixed + matched with intention.
BOTTOMS
Leopard print wide-leg pants
Dark denim wide-leg jeans
Black straight-leg jeans
TOPS
White short sleeve tee
Light grey crewneck sweater
Black short sleeve tee
Black ribbed mock neck top
Cream lightweight knit sweater
LAYERS
Camel belted coat
Bold floral bomber jacket
SHOES
Neutral retro-style sneakers
Black woven ballet flats
Tan woven ballet flats
Brown leather loafers
BAGS
Denim bag with leather straps
Black croc-embossed tote
Ready to pack with purpose for your next trip? Save this blog post for inspiration and follow along for more intentional travel wardrobe tips 🤍✈️