What to pack, what to wear... by mapakettle
Back packs are the 'only' way to travel in Europe. The little wheels on our luggage don't provide stability on cobble stone streets, plus many hotels do not have elevators.Wear only 'proven' foot wear. A tour around Rome in new shoes is not too wise. Leather sandles in summer, although comfortable, tend to stick to the parts of your foot that they come in contact with, creating blisters (due to the perspiration) I suggest a suede sandle.Layer your clothing, it is easier to remove a sweater in the heat of the afternoon in winter, than removing your down filled jacket, and paying for it later that night with a fever.
In summer,a light weave cotton is best, with longer shorts. Churches frown upon bare shoulders and tight, short shorts. Carry a light scarf or shawl, or purchase one from a street vendor.Kleenex is readily available in all pharmacies, and the travel pack tissue is larger and more absorbant than tissues in North America. Cold remedies 'as we know them in North America' are non-existant, so place your trust in the Pharmacist.