After taking hundreds of flights between us, the editors of Conde Nast Traveller know a thing or two about how to make experiences abroad go as smoothly as possible. A few mishaps when away can quickly sour your day, so thank us later when you’re dodging tourists lugging heavy cases down heaving streets, seamlessly planning days to the minute, and saving money on data and hotel services. From what to wear to how to pack to how to best utilise technology, here are the golden rules for travelling comfortably in Europe this summer.

Part of the charm of a European summer getaway is stealing off down charming cobblestone streets or taking a ferry to a tiny rugged island. But the more remote the location, the trickier the journey can be, especially when toting a big bulky luggage . Instead, pack strategically (we’re a big fan of compression packing cubes), and go carry-on only – and be sure to make full use of your under-seat bag allowance.

BEIS, Away and Monos make larger carry-ons that we reach for when we’re headed off on longer trips and use packing cubes to help further – these keep your case tidy and organised and allow you to pack more tightly and thus squeeze in a few more precious garments. Even better for traversing bumpy streets is if you switch your carry-on case for a travel backpack . These are hand luggage-sized bags, which usually open up fully like a suitcase but offer all the convenience of a backpack.

Away, Stubble & Co. and Horizn Studios make some of .