We’ve heard that Europe is calling out to a whole lot of people this Summer 2025, topping the charts for the hottest travel destination this year. So, no matter if you’re hopping between cities, visiting seaside towns, or exploring new countries entirely, we’re here to help make it as smooth and as chic as possible.
Because let’s face it: international travel rarely goes as planned. And even though some of the hiccups can become a standout memory years later, they’re usually best avoided. If you think you’ve got it all figured out, think again! Even the most seasoned travelers can get it wrong sometimes, or life does that pesky thing where it just… interferes with our plans. What’s the saying? Make plans and god laughs.
That’s why we’ve taken it upon ourselves to curate a list of unexpected, ultra-useful, and rarely remembered items that need to be on your radar this summer. Read on for eight niche travel essentials that just might save your summer abroad. (P.S. we’ve linked our faves to make it easy on you.)
1. Portable Charger with Built-In Cables
Nobody wants to be the tourist frantically searching for an outlet in the middle of Madrid. That’s why bringing a portable charger with built-in cables (yes, built-in is key!) can be a godsend when traversing old European cities where, let’s face it, charging stations are few and far between. And let’s be honest, snapping photos of every ivy-covered street corner and picture-perfect gelato cone is a non-negotiable. That’s why this little gadget is such a life saver. Plus, when a member of the crew inevitably asks, “Does anyone have a charger?” you’ll instantly become the travel MVP.
Euro trips are almost always made sweeter by spontaneous day trips—and with affordable train routes to almost every destination, you’d be silly not to embark on one. Whether you decide to take a day trip to the Amalfi Coast or just need the extra space for all the treasures we both know you’ll be leaving with, a lightweight, foldable bag is one of our Sherpani staples. It takes up little room in your suitcase and doubles as a bag to bring shopping, beaching, or as backup luggage when your original bag mysteriously shrinks… wink wink.
If there’s one thing that most Americans agree on, it’s that we like to stay hydrated. And, anyone who's been there knows, staying hydrated in Europe can become a struggle of monumental proportions. Not every country has free tap water at restaurants (we’re looking at you, Italy), and bottled water can add up quickly.
Enter electrolyte packets. These tiny lifesavers take up 0% of space in your luggage but add 100% of ease to the much-anticipated hydration struggle. They’ll help you recover from jet lag, beat the heat, and bounce back quickly after that fourth Aperol spritz you drank yesterday (don’t worry, we don’t judge here.)
4. Collapsible Water Bottle with Filter
Europe may be chic, but big, clunky water bottles? Not so much. That’s why we love a collapsible, filtered water bottle. Talk about a game changer. They can easily be carried and concealed in your bag so you stay fabulous while walking the streets of Paris or Barcelona, and the added filter means you can safely refill from taps or fountains without stress, hassle, or buying that eighth 5 euro water bottle.
5. RFID Protected Case
Everyone’s got pickpockets on the brain when traveling to foreign countries—and they usually take steps to avoid falling victim to petty schemes. But in today’s digital world, there’s a new kind of petty theft on the rise, and it’s much harder to protect against. It’s called electronic theft and is becoming all the more common in big cities like Rome, Paris, and Barcelona. An RFID-blocking case keeps your credit cards and personal info (yes, passport too) safe from digital theft—and Sherpani’s sleek, compact designs are both functional and low-key. Peace of mind was never so easy to come by.
6. Travel Sized Stain Remover Pen
Red wine + white blouse = a fashion disaster waiting to happen. And nothing says summer like a crisp white linen top. We all know that after about four red wines, anything can happen, which is why a stain remover pen is your pocket-sized secret weapon for saving clothes on the fly. Because Euro summer isn’t just about soaking up the scenery and delicious food, it’s about looking and feeling your best while doing it, too.
7. Tile Trackers for Luggage
Luggage mishaps are, unfortunately, more common than ever before. A Tile tracker tucked discreetly into your suitcase gives you instant GPS reassurance if your bag gets rerouted (or vanishes entirely). While luggage typically finds its way back home, a tracker takes the guesswork—and panic—out of the process. And what do we always say? Peace of mind is priceless.
8. Compression Socks
Compression socks are last but certainly not least, as they’re one of our favorites on the list, so don’t underestimate these cozy travel companions! Compression socks are not just for staying warm, oh contraire, they are so much more. They promote better blood flow and circulation in the legs, can help reduce swelling, prevent blood clots, and improve lymphatic drainage after staying seated for so long. They can reduce pain and discomfort, and they keep you warm and comfortable?! We’re sold. Join us.
Big summer trips call for smart packing, and these underrated items can turn potential travel hiccups into non-issues. Whether you’re seeing Michelangelo’s David in Florence or perusing the famous café scene in Lisbon, these little extras will make your journey smoother, safer, and a whole lot more enjoyable.
So go ahead—be the person who packed just right.
