If you're like me and always trying to travel for as cheap as possible, you'll understand the struggle when it comes to luggage. As Ryanair usually offer the lowest fares when travelling anywhere in Europe, I tend to fly with them the majority of the time. This however, poses a bit of a problem; their baggage policy! In the good old days (less than six months ago), a personal bag and a cabin bag (up to 10kg) used to be included in your standard fare. Now, you must purchase a priority fare in order to bring a 10kg cabin bag, as the standard fare only allows a personal bag (laptop bag, handbag, backpack). It can be quite confusing so hopefully the picture below from SendmyBag clears up any nuances. It's important to note that all airlines differ in their baggage policies, so ensure you check with your respective airline before you travel. You may be tempted to throw caution to the wind and try to survive your city break with only a personal bag. Don't. Take my advice and pay the extra fee to bring a small 10kg bag onboard as well. Even with a personal bag and a 10kg bag most people still struggle to fit everything they want to pack for their three or four days away. Trust me, you don't need half the stuff you pack. For this reason, I've compiled a list of 10 essential items you need for a city break, to save you from forgetting what you need and stop you packing what you don't. 1. Backpack While most people will bring a backpack with them onboard as their free bag, I couldn't exclude it from the list. A backpack is probably my most essential item to bring on a city break, purely because it is useful in so many situations. Whether you're exploring a city on foot and want to carry your jacket, or you're getting some food from the supermarket, you won't regret bringing a backpack. 2. Headphones/Earphones If you've every been on a stuffy plane with minimal legroom and a crying baby, you know exactly why I've included this. If you won't have wifi during your flight, be sure to download your favourite playlists on Spotify before you board. The download feature on Netflix is also great when you know you won't have wifi. If you're a frequent flyer, an investment into noise-cancelling headphones might be a smart move. I recommend the Bose QuietComfort, they are expensive but definitely worth it if you will be using them often. 3. Travel Size Toiletries If you're bringing them in your hand luggage, all liquids, gels, sprays and pastes must be under 100ml. To get around this you can do two things; (1) buy separate travel size containers and transfer your items manually, or (2) buy travel size toiletries. I recommend option 2, it's a lot less hassle. Most supermarkets and pharmacies sell travel size toiletries for very reasonable prices. Purchase them in advance because the ones for sale in duty-free can be quite expensive in comparison. All toiletries must be stored in a clear, sealed bag. Most airports have stations before security where these bags are provided free of charge. Save time by pre-packing your own! 4. Plug Adapter Depending on where in Europe you're going, you'll probably need a plug adapter. A quick google will let you know if so, and the correct one to get. Most adapters can be purchased on Amazon for less than €5, while you can also get them in the likes of Dealz for only €1.50. Try avoiding purchasing in the airport as the prices can often be as high as €10! 5. Power Bank This is an essential even if you're not leaving the country! You should always have a fully charged power bank nearby just incase. This will come in handy if you've got a long flight or you get delayed in the airport. Keep it in your backpack at all times and you don't have to worry! Again, you can buy these in the airport but prices are often inflated. Amazon has options to suit all budgets. 6. Comfortable Shoes On a city break you are undoubtedly going to rack up the steps. Don't suffer unnecessarily by wearing uncomfortable shoes. The best thing to do is bring a pair of trainers for daytime, along with shoes for evening dinner or drinks. 7. Portable Speaker Okay this is definitely not an "essential" but it does come in handy. Whether you're getting ready to explore the city in the morning, or preparing to discover the best bars the city has to offer in the evening, it's alway nice to have your favourite music playing in the background. As it takes up such little room in your luggage, why not? 8. A Good Book Cover yourself by bringing both headphones and a good book. Your flight will go faster by alternating between music, movies, and reading. It's also nice to unwind after a long day of exploring a new city. If reading isn't for you, how about trying an audiobook or even a magazine! 9. Folder I know we keep our boarding passes, booking information etc. on our phones these days. However, you can never be too careful. If you don't follow my list and forget a power bank, you might end up stranded if your phone dies. Cover yourself by keeping all your important documents in a small plastic folder. You may not use it, but better safe than sorry! 10. Wear Bulky Clothes on Board This isn't an essential item, rather an essential tip! In order to pack all these essentials, you'll need room in your luggage. Save space by wearing your bulky coat and jumpers when boarding. This is especially important if you're travelling in the Winter or to somewhere cold. You'll have room to ensure you can pack all those clothes you definitely won't wear! If you made if this far, thanks for reading. Think I missed anything? Let me know in the comments!
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