Finalising your interrailing packing list can be stressful, but once it's out of the way, you can focus on the fun stuff — like planning your exact route, researching the best gelato spots in Rome, and finding the best things to do in Amsterdam.
If you don’t plan ahead, you’ll probably forget something important, whether it’s a padlock to keep your backpack secure, a power bank for your phone, or a European eSIM to keep you connected wherever your trip takes you.
Here’s what to pack for interrailing, plus some tips on what to leave at home for a stress-free trip.
What To Pack for Interrailing
Your exact interrailing route dictates what you need to pack, but these are the essentials you need no matter where you're going.
Interrailing Essentials: Key Documents, Safety, and Connectivity
Passport and Driving Licence
Your passport is clearly an essential for your interrailing trip, but it's worth bringing a driving licence along as a secondary form of ID. That gives you the option to leave your passport at your accommodation while still having ID on hand when you need it.
Interrail Pass
It should be obvious, but an Interrail Pass is one thing you absolutely need to have. This is particularly important if you’ve opted for a paper pass, whereas those with a mobile pass simply need to have their phone to hand.
Travel Insurance Documents
Being able to quickly access your travel insurance information can prove vital in an emergency. Keep your policy details and the emergency assistance number saved on your phone or carry a physical copy in your bag so it’s on hand should any issues arise.
Backpack
A backpack with a capacity of 40–60 litres is the most practical choice for interrailing. That gives you enough room for everything you really need while keeping it light enough to carry comfortably.
Backpacks are a lot more convenient than suitcases; they're much easier to squeeze into lockers at hostels and train stations, and they keep your hands free to check directions on your phone on the move.
Choose a backpack that comes with a detachable day bag. These are perfect for interrailing, giving you the option to use them together for extra storage space or split them up when you only need a day bag.
Day Bag
A reliable day bag makes it easy to keep your essentials on hand during train journeys and while you’re out discovering new cities. It's best to pick something lightweight with secure zips to keep your belongings safe while you're out and about.
Insulated Water Bottle
An insulated water bottle is a must-have if you want to keep your water cold on lengthy train journeys or long days exploring. You can often refill your bottle for free at hostels and hotels across Europe, and it's also a great way to cut down on single-use plastic.
Travel Card
Make sure to take a travel card that doesn’t charge extra fees for spending or withdrawing cash abroad. These additional charges add up fast on long trips, but are easily avoidable if you plan ahead. Plus, it's much safer to withdraw cash as you go rather than carrying all of your spending money around with you.
Padlock
A padlock is a simple way to keep your backpack more secure. It's the easiest way to protect your valuables when you’re sleeping on trains or staying in hostel dorm rooms.
Staying Connected While Interrailing
Planning how you'll access the internet while interrailing saves you a lot of hassle when navigating new places, so it's best to get your mobile data sorted in advance.
eSIM
If your home mobile plan doesn’t cover data roaming across Europe, sorting an eSIM before you leave is an absolute must. Having reliable mobile data without needing to arrange a new SIM card every time you arrive somewhere new makes everything easier, whether you're checking directions in unfamiliar cities or searching for hidden gems in Rome.
Your best bet is to set up a regional Europe eSIM before you depart, so you can stay connected as you move from one country to the next.
Must-Pack Clothing for Interrailing Through Europe
Exactly what clothing you need to pack for interrailing depends on the season and your personal style, but there are some essentials that are useful for every traveller. It's up to you how many clothes you want to squeeze into your backpack, but don't miss these key items.
Swimwear
Leaving swimwear off your interrailing packing list is a mistake you'll likely come to regret. You’re bound to need it at some point, whether it’s for thermal baths in Budapest or a dip in Austria's alpine lakes.
Sleep Mask and Earplugs
A sleep mask and earplugs can make a world of difference when it comes to getting a good rest. Both are particularly valuable if you’re staying in hostel dorms and have noisy roommates, but also help you get a better sleep on overnight train journeys.
Comfortable Footwear
When it comes to shoes, prioritise comfort and practicality over everything else. The best way to discover each new city is on foot, so you’ll likely be hitting at least 10,000 steps a day on a regular basis, and you don't want sore feet to ruin your plans.
Microfibre Towel
Microfibre towels aren't exactly clothing, but they’re so compact that they free up valuable room in your bag for some extra clothes. They also dry much quicker than regular towels, so you shouldn't have to worry about everything in your bag getting wet when you pack them away.
Electronics and Accessories Worth Packing for Interrailing
Adapter and Extension Lead
Don't miss a universal travel adapter off your interrailing packing list. Plug types in Europe vary by country, so a universal adapter is the easiest way to keep your devices charged wherever you go.
Some adapters come with built-in USB and USB-C ports, but if yours doesn't, pack an extension lead so you can power up all of your electronics at once.
Power Bank
A power bank is a travel essential if you want a reliable way to charge your phone wherever you are. Even though many trains on your route will have power points, it’s still worth having a power bank for long days of sightseeing to make sure you don’t run out of battery.
If you're relying on a European eSIM for maps and directions on the go, a power bank is particularly important so you don't lose connection when you need it most.
Headphones
A decent set of headphones makes a huge difference on long journeys to help you pass the time with music or a podcast. Noise-cancelling headphones are the best choice, but any pair will help to block out the background noise of a busy carriage.
Travel Pillow
A travel or neck pillow makes a huge difference if you’re hoping to get some rest while on a train. They can be a bit bulky, so opt for an inflatable one or one that attaches to your backpack to save luggage space.
Playing Cards
Playing cards are a great way to pass the time on long journeys between cities, giving you something to do when you’ve exhausted your playlist and finished your podcast. A game of cards is a perfect icebreaker in hostels, too, especially if you’re a solo traveller looking to make new friends.
Toiletries and Medication for Interrailing: The Basics You Actually Need
First Aid Kit
It's best to have a small first aid kit with some basics to deal with any minor injuries or sudden illnesses while you're travelling. You never know when you'll need essentials like painkillers, plasters, and antiseptic cream, so it's worth having them on hand just in case.
Make sure to bring some electrolyte sachets. They’re a lifesaver if you get dehydrated, and I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve needed them on my travels.
Insect Repellent
Insect repellent is a must for protecting yourself against mosquito bites, particularly if you’re visiting southern Europe or the Balkans during the summer months. You'll only need a small bottle, as it’s easy enough to grab more if you run out.
Seasonal Packing: What To Bring Interrailing Whatever the Weather
Sun Cream
If you’re interrailing during summer, sun cream should be one of the first things on your packing list. It's usually worth bringing some in other seasons too, but it's especially important during the hotter months of the year.
Hat and Sunglasses
If you’re planning a summer trip, add a hat and sunglasses to your packing list. Ideally, opt for a lightweight hat that folds easily to save space and sunglasses with UV protection to keep yourself safe from the sun.
Compact Umbrella
It's a good idea to pack a compact umbrella if you're interrailing during winter, spring, or autumn. You can probably make do without in summer, but you never know when sudden downpours will hit, so bring one if you have the space.
Portable Electric Fan
A small electric fan is priceless on hot summer days in Barcelona, Rome, or any number of other interrailing destinations. It’s a day-bag essential in summer and makes all the difference when temperatures climb above 30°C.
What Not To Pack for Interrailing
Crossing multiple borders and travelling for an extended period means dealing with different laws and everyday travel risks. Avoid potential issues by leaving these things out of your backpack.
Large Amounts of Cash
Don’t be tempted to carry large sums of cash; it's safer to keep no more than €100 on hand and then make further withdrawals as the need arises. It’s not worth the risk of losing your whole budget if you happen to misplace it or are unlucky enough to fall victim to theft.
Certain Medication
Medication laws vary across Europe, so it's important to check what's allowed before you pack. For example, codeine is available over the counter in some countries, but is strictly controlled in others, meaning you'll need a valid prescription to avoid any issues.
Some prescription medications may require documentation from your doctor, such as a letter or certificate confirming the medicine is for personal use. Check GOV.UK’s foreign travel advice for the entry requirements to each country on your route before you travel. If you’re ever unsure whether a medication is legal at your destination, it’s best to leave it at home.
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