Packing for a six-month trip around Europe wasn't easy. I deliberated for a good two months about what to take with me and what to leave behind. Since I only had two backpacks, I had to be picky ...

I took a six-month trip around Europe and only brought two backpacks with me. I'm glad I packed things like a portable white-noise machine and flat travel pouches. Next time, I'll leave my ballet ...

Sometimes, traveling in Europe with a large, checked backpack , and a smaller daypack as your personal item makes more sense.