2025 Summer in Europe with Just a 20L Waterproof Backpack
I had a few stops planned: Lisbon, Porto, a quick return via Paris, and finally Switzerland. Classic solo summer routing—but this time, I promised myself I wouldn’t overpack.
Instead of dragging a suitcase across cobbled streets and budget flights, I relied on a 20L waterproof backpack. And honestly, it made the whole trip feel lighter—physically and mentally.
Why Go Light with a Travel Light Backpack in Summer?
Summer seems easier, but it’s deceptive. You still end up juggling outfits, electronics, toiletries—and in my case, a laptop too. That’s why I made sure my backpack had a solid internal laptop sleeve. My MacBook sat securely at the back, leaving the rest of the space for clothes and essentials.
After comparing baggage policies on several low-cost European airlines, the 20L size stood out as the safest bet. It fits under seats, avoids baggage fees, and attracts zero attention. Plus, there’s no stress about waiting at the carousel.
So I set myself a packing rule: if it didn’t serve at least two purposes, it stayed home.
What Actually Went Into My 20L Waterproof Backpack: Backpacking Essentials
🎒 The travel light backpack I used was structured, weather-resistant, and minimalist—no side zippers or flashy branding. The top-load design made organizing easier, and I left extra space for snacks and souvenirs along the way.
🧳 For the flight, I used my rolled-up jacket as a neck pillow. I’ve learned the hard way that attaching things externally (like hanging a pillow from a strap) just risks losing them mid-transit.
📄 My passport, boarding pass, and wallet stayed in an internal zip pocket. Everything else was grouped by purpose: tech, clothes, toiletries.
Here’s what I packed for 10 days:
· 2 lightweight T-shirts
· 1 linen button-down (doubles as a beach cover-up or evening layer)
· 1 pair of shorts
· 1 pair of trousers (linen-blend, rolls tight)
· 2 pairs of underwear
· 1 pair of quick-dry socks
· 1 pair of sandals
· 1 pair of sneakers (worn)
· Swimwear
· Sunglasses, small sunscreen bottle, foldable tote
· MacBook Air in the built-in sleeve
· Kindle and a small notebook
· Compact charger & adapter kit
· Toiletry bag (essentials only—nothing over 100ml)
And of course, everything fit without cramming. That’s key. Leave space—you’ll need it, even if you don’t know why yet.
Everyday Routine with a Backpack for Summer Travel
Each day, I’d unpack only what I needed. My lightweight setup meant I could check in early, move quickly, and even walk 2–3km from a train station to a hotel without fatigue. No dragging wheels over cobblestones. No elevator drama in budget hotels.
I’d toss in my laptop if I was heading to a café for a few hours, or just grab my tote bag for market strolls. No need for a second bag—I let the main backpack do all the work.
The best part? I felt more connected to the places I visited. There’s a certain kind of freedom that comes when everything you need is already with you.
Final Thought: Why a 20L Waterproof Backpack Was Enough
Solo travel isn't about having the perfect gear—it’s about making choices that let you focus more on the experience and less on the logistics. And for me, that started with a 20L waterproof backpack—simple, compact, and enough.
