What to Take Interrailing: Based On Real Experience

Packing your bags and deciding what to take Interrailing can feel overwhelming – figuring out the essentials, choosing the right backpack, and making everything fit. If you have found yourself endlessly scrolling TikTok for packing tips, you are not alone. Thats why this guide covers everything you need, from must-have essentials to top packing hacks and the best backpack for a month-long trip. Plus, scroll to the end for a free downloadable What To Take Interrailing PDF checklist to make packing stress-free!

The Best Interrail Backpack For One Month

Eurohike 65 Litre Backpack

There are so many different backpacks on the market but my recommendation, based on best value for money is the Eurohike 65 Litre Backpack.

I used this backpack for five weeks, around 10 countries, travelling on all types of transportation (buses, trains, flights, taxis, boats) and it is still in perfect condition.

Pros

• Sturdy
• Affordable
• Spacious, many pockets and one zip pocket (see video)
• Perfect for first time travellers
• Great back support, supportive features & comfortable

Cons

• Not waterproof
• Draw string open (not zipped)

What You Can’t Afford to Forget

You are not going to get far without these essentials – so if you take away anything from this post, make sure it’s this list!

Two things that deserve a special mention: medication and vaccinations. It’s so easy to forget your daily meds, but they are absolutely essential – especially if you are traveling for a long time. Set a reminder, check, check and check again!

Also, don’t forget to look into vaccinations and travel certificates. Some countries require specific vaccinations and documentation, so even if it might not apply to most destinations, it is always worth checking. The last thing you want is to be caught out at border control!

Toiletries: The Non-Essentials That Feel Essential

Why SPF is Essential When Travelling

When traveling, it is crucial to protect your skin by wearing SPF. Even though a slight tan may seem harmless, it is actually a sign of skin damage. Sunburns and UV exposure can lead to long-term skin issues, including premature aging and an increased risk of skin cancer.

Make SPF a non-negotiable. Whether you are lounging on the beach or exploring a new city, it is important to layer up with sunscreen to shield your skin from harmful UV rays. It is not worth risking your health for a temporary glow.

Read about the risks of tanning here.
Read why SPF is so important here.

Don’t Forget Your Electronics

Bits & Bobs You Are Likely To Forget

Not to Toot My Own Horn But…

These little bits and bobs might just be the most useful “non-essentials” you will bring along on your travels. Thank me later 😉

My personal favourite from the list? The eye masks. I honestly cannot recommend the MyHalos Blackout Eye Mask enough. When I say it completely blocks out light, I mean there is not a single peek of brightness at ALL. It is hands down the best eye mask I have ever bought. Not only is it incredibly soft, but it fits the face perfectly, so there is no slipping or sliding around. I was able to sleep comfortably with it on (which isn’t normally the case for me). Truly, a game changer.

Another game changer is the Uniqulo crossbody bag. You have probably heard the hype surrounding the Uniqlo crossbody bag, and let me tell you, it is totally worth the hype. I was honestly amazed by how much I could fit into it. I managed to pack a book, a water bottle, and all my daily essentials without any problem. It is incredibly sturdy, compact, and best of all, it is super affordable. I absolutely love it. Still skeptical? Just check out TikTok – you will find hundreds of glowing reviews from people raving about it.

Random Things That Are Great For Interrailing

Enhancing your backpacking experience involves thoughtful additions, alongside your essentials there are various items that are extremely valuable to have, many of which probably haven’t crossed your mind.

Eight Valuable Items I Loved Using, For You To Consider:

1. Bike Chain and Lock: Secure your backpack to fixed objects like train tables or luggage racks, allowing you to relax or sleep without worrying about your bag being stolen. I bought my bike chain from Amazon, and it was really secure, cheap and useful. Adding a lock to the zips of your bag provides extra security, deterring people away from getting inside it.

2. Crease Release Spray: Keep your clothes wrinkle-free and fresh-smelling, even without access to an iron by taking crease release spray with you. You can buy this for £2 at Home Bargins.

3. Packing Cubes: Organise your belongings into sections, effectively creating portable drawers. They help maximise space by compressing items into manageable cubes and are quite simply one of the best items I packed with me. Additionally, they are super affordable, I got mine from Aldi for £4, buy you can also buy them from Primark and Amazon. Here is amazons choice for packing cubes.

4. Mini Backpack with Carabiners: Attach a lightweight, foldable backpack to your main pack using carabiners. This provides extra storage for souvenirs or daily essentials during your travels. You can buy these for an affordable price at mountain warehouse, go outdoors or trespass.

5. Large Poncho: Packing a poncho protects yourself and your backpack from rain. A sizable poncho covers your gear, keeping everything dry during unexpected downpours. You might look a little silly, but dry items make it worth it.

6. USB Charging Station: A multi-port USB charger allows you to charge multiple devices simultaneously, enhancing flexibility, especially in areas with limited power outlets like trains. I got mine from Amazon at a cheap price.

7. Phone Lanyard: Phone lanyards, aren’t only for those trying to keep their phone safe from London phone snatchers. Yes a lanyard prevents theft but it also eliminates the need to rummage through your bag for quick photos. So im so glad i had my phone lanyard with me.

Check, Check and Check Again!

To make your packing routine as easy as possible I have compiled your very own What To Take Interrailing Checklist into a downloadable pdf so you can check, check and check again!

Download your What To Take Interrailing Checklist PDF below (p.s. there is a pdf exclusive):

*This post contains affiliate links, however all opinions are my own and many items I have personally used and bought with my own money and truly love.*