City breaks are the perfect way to explore vibrant destinations in just a few days. Whether you’re jetting off for a weekend in Paris, New York, or Rome, packing smartly is key to making the most of your adventure.

To ensure you have everything you need, here’s a list of 10 travel essentials you should never leave home without on a city break.

Yes, I know, it is always best to be able to spend more time in any city you are visiting. I admit I like to check the famous landmarks and go off the beaten path, and you cannot do all that in just 2-3 days. But, a short visit is always preferable to never visiting at all!

As I went on a few city breaks this year – Budapest, Brasov, etc. – and it is a way to visit cities that I choose every once in a while, here is a complete city break packing list for you!

Anyway, getting back to this article, I am sharing with you my best travel essentials for a city break. I hope you will find them useful and that this list will help you pack faster and never forget something!

10 Travel Essentials You Should Never Leave Home Without on a City Break

1. Lightweight Carry-On Bag or Backpack

A compact, versatile bag keeps your belongings organized while fitting airline carry-on requirements. Choose one with multiple compartments for quick access to essentials.

Also, if you’re exploring the city on foot, a stylish daypack with anti-theft features is a must. I prefer a backpack to a purse especially when I travel with my son/husband. We can fit everything we need in the backpack and it is easy to carry.

If possible, try to have an anti-theft backpack. I also choose backpacks that have a place for a cable – sometimes I need to recharge my phone and I have a power supply in the backpack.

2. Comfortable Walking Shoes

City breaks involve a lot of walking—whether it’s sightseeing or wandering through charming streets.

When I am asked what to pack for a city break, I am always advising anyone to choose supportive sneakers or slip-on shoes that pair well with casual outfits and can handle long days on your feet. During the summer, I prefer sandals – comfortable ones!

I will also add that it is best to avoid brand-new shoes to prevent blisters; go with a pair you know are ok. The only exception is a new pair of the same shoes/sandals that you wore already and know that are great for you!

3. Weather-Appropriate Layers

Cities often have unpredictable weather, and layering helps you stay comfortable throughout the day.

So, pack a lightweight jacket or cardigan for spring or fall trips, for winter getaways bring a packable coat, gloves, and a scarf.

Check the local forecast before packing and plan your layers accordingly. Do not overpack – keep in mind that you will be on the move.

Also, if you are visiting a mountain resort – for instance – and you can go with a cable car to the top of the mountain, make sure to pack something that will keep you warm there (it is colder on the mountain top.) And make sure to have appropriate footwear (something I taught my son since he was a small child.)

4. Portable Phone Charger/Power Bank + cable

This item is a lifesaver for me – especially as I use my phone with GPS on when traveling – so it is no surprise that it is among my list of essential items to pack for a city break.

Your phone is your lifeline for maps, translation apps, and capturing memories – photos. A portable charger ensures your battery lasts all day.

Opt for a compact power bank with enough capacity to charge your phone multiple times during your trip. I keep it in my backpack and, as I mentioned above, I have backpacks with small spaces for cables that allow me to keep the backpack closed, but also to charge my phone while in the city.

5. City Guide or Travel Apps

If you are visiting a city you do not know, a reliable guidebook or downloaded travel app helps you find top attractions, restaurants, and local tips.

I would also advise you to download offline maps on Google Maps or Maps.me to navigate without Wi-Fi or data.

I admit that I have a mobile data package that allows me to use my internet on vacations (and I have enough) so I always have the GPS on, Google maps on, plus other apps (audio guides for museums, etc.)

6. (Reusable) Water Bottle

Staying hydrated is essential, especially if you’re walking all day. A reusable bottle helps you avoid buying single-use plastic bottles and saves money.

Many cities have public water fountains—check ahead to see if the tap water is drinkable at your destination.

Here I have to say that I have such a bottle, but when we travel as a family, we have 1-2 bottles (2l each) in the backpack. We never throw away the plastic in garbage bins – but always in recycling bins. But at least a water bottle in our backpack is one of the things to pack for a city break!

7. Crossbody Bag or Anti-Theft Purse

Keep your valuables safe and accessible while exploring busy city streets. A crossbody bag with anti-theft features (like RFID blocking or hidden zippers) adds peace of mind.

Alternatively, you can use your camera bag – I did that in Paris.

You can choose a lightweight yet stylish option that complements your travel outfits.

I have to say that nowadays I travel mostly without such a purse – if possible – especially as I can keep what I need in the backpack + the phone in a pocket.

8. Small Toiletry Kit

For short trips that involve sleeping at a hotel, travel-sized toothpaste, toothbrush, deodorant, sunscreen, and makeup wipes can be useful. I also have a make-up crayon and a lip balm 🙂

If you are traveling by plane, make sure to use a transparent TSA-compliant bag to breeze through airport security.

9. Travel-Sized Umbrella or Rain Poncho

Obviously, it depends on the season and area you are visiting. But, sudden rain showers can happen in any city, so it’s best to be prepared.

A compact umbrella fits neatly in your day bag without taking up much space, and it’s more eco-friendly than disposable ponchos. If you are trying to keep your backpack light, then a raincoat might be perfect for you – there are some that are reusable.

We used such raincoats both in Hungary and Germany this year and they were perfect – and we can use them in the future too, as they did not break.

10. Snacks for On-the-Go

I travel with a child so I need to pack snacks. They are useful both on train/bus/tram rides and when exploring the city.

I recommend having healthy snacks – granola bars, nuts, or dried fruit are easy to pack and provide an energy boost. Avoid messy snacks to keep your bag and hands clean (like chocolate that can melt during summer hot days.)

Bonus Packing Tips for City Breaks

• Stick to a Capsule Wardrobe: Pack versatile pieces that can be mixed and matched to create multiple outfits.
• Plan Ahead: Research your destination and create a rough itinerary so you know what’s essential for your specific trip.
• Travel Light: Remember, city breaks are short trips—avoid overpacking to save time and effort during travel.
• Keep it comfortable: you are there to explore a city, so comfort should be your main focus when packing!

Conclusion

With these 10 travel essentials, you’ll be ready for any city break, whether it’s a cultural escape to Europe or a bustling urban adventure in Asia. Packing smartly allows you to enjoy every moment without worrying about missing anything important.

Are you ready to plan your next city break? Let us know where you’re heading and if you’d like more destination-specific tips!

Photo sources: 1, 2, 3, 4