clothing suggestions needed
 

Our small group is traveling to Amsterdam--France--Germany and ending in Switzerland on a river cruise end of April into early May. Need packing advice as to appropriate items to bring for the varying weather we may encounter. First time to Europe and don't want to pack heavily, but want to assure I'll have enough to be comfortable and warm enough. Concerned that layers and a lightweight double-breasted jackets won't be enough for the cooler temps. Suggestions appreciated! Thanks in advance.

Th eonly really chilly temps are likely to be if you ascend any of the mountains of Switz. Otherwise you will encounter spring - not winter - weather. I think layers and a light jacket will be fine. Most important are a sturdy folding umbrellas, a thin rain jacket with hood and 2 pairs of waterproofed walking shoes (if one pair gets wet will likely still be damp the next day).

>>Concerned that layers and a lightweight double-breasted jackets won't be enough for the cooler temps.<<

Sure they will. Mainly depends on <i>what sorts of layers</i> you are talking about. If you throw in a fleece or down vest to add to the layers you will be fine. Neither takes almost any luggage space.

thanks nytraveler….this Florida girl only knows HOT and HUMID, so that's where the questions arise. I'll waterproof my shoes--great idea.

thanks janisj--i think i have a vest somewhere in my closet…will dig it out and see how that works with the color palette. thanks

It's not going to be that balmy in April to early May. I was in Switzerland in July or August up in a higher elevation and you still needed outerwear at night.

I would take more than a flimsy nylon parka, unlined, or something like that. Those kind of things can serve as a waterproof shell at times which is useful but don't give much warmth. What do you mean by double-breasted jacket, what difference does the style make? But that sounds like a dress jacket, sports jackets aren't double-breasted. There are some sports jackets that have zip-out linings called 3 in 1s that could work.

>>What do you mean by double-breasted jacket, what difference does the style make? But that sounds like a dress jacket, sports jackets aren't double-breasted. <<

Sometimes Christina I think you need to get out more ;) Why on earth can't a casual or sports jacket be double breasted? I think I have 3 or 4 double breasted jackets/cardis - none of which are 'dress' jackets.

Well you will have spring in a temperate climate - not a semi-tropical one like FL.

Expect the weather to be more like NY.

(We had a niece come to visit from FL and she wanted us to turn the heat on whenever the temp went below 75 - while everyone else was in tees and shorts. Only you know if your thermostat is set that way.)

the jacket I have is actually made from material similar to a nice sweatshirt material. It's so comfy and stylish as it's double breasted and belted (similar to a peat coat). Guess I have what I need based on what you've all suggested (so thanks).

It really depends: in 2013 all of western europe had a long winter. I remember, because mid may was the first time the thermometer hit well above 10 degrees centigrade. 2014 spring however started early and became quite warm: many days around 18ºC, a few above the 20º mark. So it varies. I suggest you keep a eye on European weather sites for the general trend and pack accordingly. Also, on the river, it's a bit cooler, generally.

thanks all for your informative responses.
will take all into consideration.

Jackets made of "sweatshirt-type material," i.e., French-terry, cotton poly blend have absolutely no wind or water repellency. It might be comfy on an airplane or if it's sunny, but I would strongly suggest at least a waterproof or water repellent hooded shell for over it. Look online at REI (store) or at Columbia or Ex Officio sportswear online, also Magellans. By baselayers, we are talking silk/merino wool "tech" wear, not 2-3 cotton tee shirts. Also, bring a long scarf that you can wrap around your neck, easily packed accessory. Packable down jacket fits into its own pocket, polyester fill is just not the same. Our friends took this cruise last mid-June and were cold and soaked, she only brought Clark walking sandals. It varies. You will be talking the day tours upon port arrivals rain or shine and do not want to buy clothing in Europe, even with declining Euro.

Watch out for those lazy winds (they don't go round you).

What saved me in Italy last year, especially on chilly evenings, were Cuddleduds (or if you want to splurge, silk thermal underwear). You can layer them under under clothes, wear them to sleep in, and they weigh almost nothing. e were there in early- mid May are often had chilly mornings and evenings but could get by with short sleeved tops during the day (though the local residents often looked they were dressing. For cold weather). Pack light - no more than a 21" carryon. You'll be happy when you get there and have to pull your luggage over cobblestones and up and down lots of steps.

I love Cuddleduds and wish they sold them here in Sweden as I am planning for a spring trip to Rome and thought about layers. I've only found the wool long john types for outdoor sports.

Just have layers available. It can be hot or cold or any weather in between.

When I dress in layers, I'm not interested in layers that I can't strip off in public.

The top layer should be wind-and-water resistant. In spring or autumn, I prefer a lightly lined rain jacket with a hood. Often rain takes the form of a light drizzle, and a hood is sufficient for that; it gets tiresome to have to carry an umbrella for long periods. You can wear a heavy sweater or cardigan under that, and you'll be set for any weather you might encounter in the spring. You should have another lightweight cardigan for warm days, when you might need something more in the evening.