Carter, on my trip I packed into those compressible bags that you roll up to get all the air out of. They worked really well - as much for the fact that they kept everything organized as the space they saved. Worth thinking about. I think I got mine at Target, nowhere fancy.

Gaylene's got some great advice as does CocoLion - the prices are still cheaper in the US so I'd only spend on unique clothing that I wouldn't find at home or on the internet. Brands are more worldwide these days so the kind of clothing you can find in Europe is very similar in a lot of ways to the kind of stuff you can find in any major North American city.

Ok Jen, I'm okay leaving my knickers all over Europe, but unfortunately, I've done a major cull on everything else, so my trousers have to come home with me!

Louise, you're right about the layers. Fortunately, I've gotten better about this lately because I am always hot these days and shedding layers left and right.

Carla, now I get the fingerless mitts. What a great idea. Thanks for the suggestion!

Wendy45, if only my previous lists would help! Unfortunately, they'd likely be a lesson in what not to bring. I will definitely do better this time! I'm fully expecting the weather to throw my whole plan into chaos two days before we leave.

CocoLion, you're right, of course, about the exchange rate making things more expensive. I don't typically buy things I see around here. I really like European cuts on coats and jackets, so that's on my list if I find something wonderful. I also love to grab scarves, pashminas and small leather goods in the markets. We'll see what else strikes me. I bought 2 handbags and a tote in Florence last year, but somehow managed to come home without the leather jacket that was on my list.

Greycat6, thanks for the sccop on Normandy. My husband's great uncle was a Normandy survivor, and we have his medals framed and hanging. No doubt this will be one museum my husband will want to go to.

Laura, is it the Space Bags you used? Did your things get wrinkled from rolling out the air? Definitely going for unique items on the trip...nothing I will see everyone wearing here!

Ok, I just snorted loudly at your "leaving your knickers all over Europe" comment. Too funny.

I'm also enjoying your Pinterest board, by the way :).

Back at you EP...love your capsules board!

What a great thread.

I've done a fair bit of travelling in the past few years. Aside from my frequent shorter trips to Toronto, New York, and other spots, I spent a week in London last February. It was freezing the whole time; I swear it was colder there than in Canada at the time...layers were key. I also spent several weeks in China plus a week in Vancouver with my family last fall. I composed threads about this -- filled with great advice like you've received.

Because on those trips I was doing a wide variety of activities (from hiking to dinners and theatre outings) I found I needed a variety of clothes. Gaylene's advice to create and try on outfits for each type of occasion was really helpful. I did as she suggested and tried to imagine a "cooler weather" version of the outfit, a "rainy weather" version, a "heat wave" version. I wanted to look good whatever the conditions.

I didn't manage to travel with a carry on, partly (I think) because of the time of year I was travelling (or the varied climates I'd be experiencing within one trip) and partly because my carry on bag is old and not a great design -- a new bag is on my list of items to purchase. Truthfully, I could have managed the carry on for the London trip, except I wanted room in case I made purchases (which I didn't end up making in the end.) And Mr. Suz was checking his bag anyway, so I went ahead and put my stuff in the larger bag.

For me, it's most important to consider footwear. I know they say to bring one or at most two pairs of shoes, but unless my trip is short and my activities more focused than is typical for me, that simply doesn't work well in my case. I like to have different shoes to go with different kinds of outfits, but more than that, I find my feet stay happiest if I switch up the footwear frequently. And shoes take up room.

So do sweaters, and jackets and coats -- which is why travelling in cooler temperatures makes using a carry on even more difficult.

May is transitional weather, so you'll need clothes for cool temps and clothes for warmer temps. But smartly chosen layers should go a long way.

It sounds like a fantastic trip, and I am taking notes from the lists -- I hope anyone who has one will make it public either here or in a separate thread.

Carter, I so agree with Cocolion about prices and the USA is about the cheapest... I do often "find" gorgeous scarves and things which are easy to carry but also allows you to be feel aligned to local fashion over neutral basics. In the uk,, they mailed the shoes I bought instore straight home to Australia for free... so I was both leaving knickers round Europe and my husband skyping me about what all the boxes were that were being delivered... whoops!! I am so excited for you.. oh and have you checked out the 14 day packing capsule by Seventeenth and Irving blog... a real inspiration...

Suz, the cool/rainy/hot versions of each outfit is brilliant! I will absolutely do this.

Jen, thanks for the reminder about shipping. Often I like to wear the things I buy on trips while I'm there, but we did have a painting shipped home from St Tropez last year. I'll definitely ship if I buy something bulky.

Several people have mentioned the packing list- if you PM me, I will be happy to email my version (and welcome critiques/additions!)

Yes, yes to a merino layer. Icebreaker is the "name brand" internationally, but also look out for Orca (which you can buy online). All the "high street" shops in New Zealand carry merino wool lines in winter, it is a very common fabric here (more common and less expensive than cashmere, which of course is not local). I have a black merino dress which is perfect for pretty much every single occasion.

The Normandy coast can be wet, cold and windy, so be prepared for that. I would also pack a lightweight beanie for that day. We visited the British landing beaches at Arromanches (part of Gold Beach) and also Juno Beach where the Canadian's landed. The interesting thing about Arromanches is that it is the site of one of the Mulberry Harbour's (the temporary harbours) and you can still see some of it today.

Make sure any lunch in Normandy includes a local cider!

Zurich is a nice city to just walk around in. The lake on a sunny day is wonderful for a stroll and I am sure you can do cruises too. We were there in early May and it was hot enough just for a short sleeve and a t-shirt.

I agree with Suz about footwear. On a trip your length I would ensure that I have two pairs of good walking shoes and wear them on alternate days to keep your feet happy!

For Paris, check out a book called "Secret Paris" has lots of little gems (like hidden gardens) to check out.

For what it's worth, I went to Europe last March/April and my travel capsule consisted of:

bottoms:
skinny dark wash jeans
white jeans
straight leg jeans
BF jeans (but noone in Europe was wearing BF jeans)
pencil skirt

tops:
Two BR sweaters (cotton) - one white/blue stripe, one a green leaf print
black cashmere sweater
black turtleneck (which I never wore)
cotton striped GAP sweater
chambray shirt
striped tee

Shoes and scarves and belts:
1 belt
3 scarves
waterproof Blondo knee high boots
comfortable booties
Josef Seibel metallic sneakers

toppers and outerwear:
black blazer
trench coat
fleece for layering under trench when it got super cold (which it did - record cold temps)
Gloves
Hat

Loungewear/PJs

That all fit in one carryon, and I also had access to laundry where we were staying.

Your weather will likely be warmer, but be sure to keep an eye on the weather as you get closer to your travel dates.

So many great replies. The clothes ideas have been expertly covered. You mentioned Portobello Road in London which is one of my favorite places to dig for treasures. My husband wasn't keen on The West End but I convinced him to go see The Sunshine Boys starring Danny DeVito. He still talks about it and can't wait to go to the theatre again.

One sort if unusual thing I do when visiting London is order gingerbread and have it delivered to my hotel. I discovered grasmere gingerbread 30 yrs ago and bought several bricks to bring home. Now I always order it from http://www.grasmeregingerbread.co.uk I enjoy some with tea and order extra to bring home.

Also, I should add my favourite market type day when I was living in London was Sunday - the Columbia Road Flower Market, then you can head to the Upmarket just off Brick Lane, then Spitalfields.

Do breakfast on Columbia Road, lunch at the Upmarket and finish at a pub for a drink after Spitalfields.

DH wasn't big into theatre either when we first arrived in London. I converted him though. Make sure you check out what is on at the Globe.

LK, such great information! I have much research to do on Normandy. My husband is doing this trip as my 50th birthday present, but I thought this particular side trip would be something very meaningful for him. I'd better study up so I can make the most of it. Glad to hear something about Zurich as well. That's the business-oriented piece we needed to attach to the trip, so I haven't really even viewed it as a place to explore. The lake could be a big hit. Secret Paris sounds great. I'll pick that up this week when I go get new maps so I can re-orient myself. Your version of Sunday in London sounds perfect! I will absolutely recreate it. Clicking on your links as soon as I finish typing this. I was looking at theater options today. I was thinking Jersey Boys since he'd love the music. Last time I was there, I saw Mama Mia (and then again in NY). I would see it again, but he would be determined to hate it. We'll see.

Sarah, thanks for the excellent list! We won't have access to laundry facilities nor the interest to pursue it, but perhaps I could double the clothing items on your list and be in good shape?

Trishalee, I don't know the Sunshine Boys, but I'll see if it's still playing. Why are men so unbelievably resistant to trying cultural things? Drives me nuts. The gingerbread sounds like a great item to bring back for friends. Thanks for the scoop.

You've gotten wonderful advice from all the ladies and your plan sounds fabulous. I also use those mesh laundry bags while packing to keep things sorted and helps me to find them in a hurry.
Things I never travel without
*money belt
Old fashioned but invaluable for keeping all those important papers safe. Try it on when figuring out your capsule. When in Ireland mine didn't work with some of the outfits. Also wash it before you go, I was allergic to mine while and had to duct tape the cord. You might also not like where you planned to wear it on your body and have to change locations. If you do that will also be reflected on if it works with your travel capsule. Do fill it before trying it on as it will be thicker. I found the circle scarf I made before going away was perfect for hiding the cord, hiding the funny bulky presence on my chest, etc.
*travel wallet
Too large for everyday use but invaluable in airport. Keeps boarding passes, passport, letters from doc re medical goods, flight tickets home, itinerary, etc all in one place. I also tuck receipts for everything bought while away here as it makes the vat refund machine and customs much easier when coming home. I have a proper leather one but made a simple version of one from cardstock for dh which he loved even though he was against it in the beginning.
*duct tape
Have never gone away and not used it. Ripped suitecase, fallen hem, wrap money belt cord, etc.
*zip lock baggies in more than one size
Also invaluable. Due to tiredness accidentally took shower while wearing bra and panties first night. No worry about how to pack wet things when leaving hotel next morning, throw home country loose change in one when getting on airplane and take it out when returning home, etc.
*more pj's and bedsocks than I normally wear
Added this to list after last trip
*small notebook
I write all important info as well as notes to myself while away. Consular office phone numbers in each country/city, credit card toll free numbers, phone numbers of people I will be calling in the different countries visiting or from different airports during journey, what medication if for and any changes done while travelling, gift lists as I don't want to forget anyone, recommendations of restaurants/shopping/tour operators, the recipe for stew that you got from pub owner on trip.

I use DropBox to store information: hotel reservations, flights, etc. If you have Internet, you can then access any of this information. I even store backup copies of passport etc in case real disaster strikes.

I keep coming back to this thread because I LOVE packing lists!

I'll second Freckles' suggestion of zip-lock bags. I take a bunch of them, in quart, gallon, and 2 gallon sizes. The smaller sizes are useful for bringing home any liquids I buy. I always pick up new toiletries in France: shampoo, conditioner, shower gels, moisturizers. The ziplocks protect my clothes from any possible leakage on the way home.
I use the 2 gallon size for dirty clothes, and they work well for compressing things to fit in the suitcase.

I never have used a money belt, but I do keep an extra credit card and some money tucked away not in my purse just in case of loss or theft. I've never needed them, but it makes me feel better.

I use my iPhone for notes and I keep a copy of my passport as a pdf file on my phone. I don't ever carry my actual passport, so the copy is handy when filling out the form for the Détaxe, and you don't have to get online to access it.

Freckles, You crack me up! I can so see myself stumbling into the shower in bra and panties. Ziplocs added to my list. I have one of those stretchy wrist wallets (assuming I can find it). It doesn't hold as much as the tuck-in-your-pants version, but it should be ok when we're out and about. I would NEVER have thought to take duct tape...although I certainly wouldn't mind taking MacGyver;-). The notebook and travel wallet are great ideas as well. Thanks!

Pam, Dropbox is fabulous, isn't it? I use it for everything...whatever I need is available from laptop, desktop, tablet, phone, someone else's device. Amazing! I will make a separate file for everything I may need while traveling.

Marcy, I'm a sucker for French cosmetics and lotions. Adding even more Ziplocs for it.

We've had a date change for the trip because of scheduling issues here at home. We are now going the beginning of June. I'll be making the reservations tomorrow and will post off-topic asking for your suggestions on where to eat, shop, play, etc. Thank you all so much for all the great advice!

I would check the weather forecast before you pack as English weather has been quite erratic in May over the last few years, veering from very cold to very hot within days.

Jeans are definitely smart enough for both daytime and nighttime unless you are going to a particularly posh restaurant or clubbing I wouldn't wear trainers, unless they are the converse/pump type, but Toms and sandals are popular when it's warm, or boots when it's cooler.

I would definitely bear in mind that if you are travelling by train you will need to be able to lug your case on/off the train, onto luggage racks (more often large cases need to be left in the area by the doors), held tight on long escalators etc.

If you are travelling by plane and choose to just take handluggage, bear in mind that in Europe you are only allowed one bag and that for getting through security and boarding your plane you'll have to put your handbag/personal item into your handluggage so leave room for it! During boarding the plane last year (England to Spain) our cases were weighed and my handluggage case had to be checked as it was over 10kg which was annoying, as it was well within the size guidelines!

It sounds like a great trip! Switzerland is a beautiful country and Zurich is the most expensive city in the world, so is great for people watching and window shopping. In London if recommend visiting Harrods (standard!), liberty and Covent garden for shopping, all of the usual galleries and the saatchi gallery if you want something a little different.

Re Marcy's french cosmetics and lotions mention.

I always throw in one of those tiny (1.7 oz) containers of Avene thermal spring water in my bag when I travel. I use it for skincare (when I wash my face every single day) but besides that you can cool itchy skin, cool a sun or wind burn, spray it right down your throat when you have a sore throat, flush a wound, disinfect a blister before putting a patch on it, etc. It is a dynamite product!

I wouldn't use Vichy or another brand for the other than skincare uses just Avene. If you doubt it ask your pharmacist.

I love packing/travel threads too!

Coming here late to the game, and I don't think I'd have useful clothing advice anyway, but I wanted to add my experience with packing cubes, as that's something you asked about. I got eBags packing cubes for a trip last spring and loved them so much that I got extras as gifts and for myself. I don't know if they helped me pack more, because I'm already a pretty compact packer and actually probably can pack more without the cubes, but they really helped my SO utilize his space efficiently -- he otherwise tends to toss everything in, which takes up ridiculous amounts of space and drives me crazy. What I appreciated most was the fact that I could take stuff out of my bag and put everything back easily, as it was all contained within smaller cubes. I don't use the largest cube size as a rule because I'm most often traveling with just carry-ons (and when you're 5'3", your clothes are too small for the large cube anyway).

For those who can tolerate wearing wool next to the skin, I also wanted to second the recommendation of Icebreaker. It's already been praised upthread, so I won't weigh the thread down with more about it -- anyway, if I did, I'd be booted for sounding like a shill! Before I converted to wool, I tended to bring thin silk sweaters because they packed down relatively small.

about Freckles's jet-lagged shower experience!

Speaking of both packing cubes and Icebreaker - there is a sale going on at Sierra Trading Post that gives 35% discount on everything (and free shipping on orders over $100), code is MEP23033. I think this one is good until the end of Monday. They usually have Eagle Creek packing cubes and Icebreaker tops and bottoms. If you sign up for the Deal Flyer, you get a constant stream of coupons via e-mail, which sometimes give an even bigger discount. I have been able to get packing cubes for about $4-5 a piece (I seem to prefer smaller packing cubes such as a half-cube) and Icebreaker tops for about $40.

Re. French Cosmetics - La Roche Posay is excellent, and now (along with a few other french brands) also sold in Boots in Britain. And don't forget laduree macarons

I went to Omaha beach etc. several years ago, and although it was June it was an unusually cold and wet year. We were with my aunt and uncle who had rented a car, so a tour might be more convenient. As I recall we walked around a battlefield which was still full of bomb craters and reinforcements, went to the museum and cemetary, and walked along the beach. My husband didn't enjoy it much, but then he is British, and it doesn't hold the same meaning for him. My uncle, on the other hand, was an army vet (not in WWII but he was in the same company as one of the groups who stormed the beach) and he found it very interesting and moving.

Anyway, if the weather is nice I'd recommend walking along the beach for a bit. It was very pretty and a nice break from the solemn war memorials, even though there are of course many relics on the beach itself.

If you get the chance you might want to visit Bayeaux as well. We took the train from Caen. It is a very pretty town and the famous tapestry, which I had not heard of before I went there, is very interesting and worth a visit.

And crepes. And cider. Yum!