lightweight jacket/sweater for lite packing

Consider taking along a microfleece as an alternative to a sweater or sweatshirt. They weigh next to nothing and pack down very well.

Layering is a really good solution, because the pieces you layer with can become independent items of clothing - whereas a coat can only be worn as a coat.

Try a cashmere cardigan; always classy, lightweight. I found a silk/cashmere one at TJ Maxx recently.

I take a microfleece zip jacket and a very lightweight Gore-tex jacket. If it's cold, I can wear both. But often it will be raining and warm, so the rain jacket goes over a light T-shirt.

I also agree...light weight fleece jacket will be enough. Don't forget a small umbrella and a travel poncho. We were there in June-July & August and had rain in several countries.

REI has a great light coat that easily packs into hardly anything. It gives great wind coverage and rain protection. It is a little pricey but I have had mine for 2 years and live on the West Coast (pretty damp and cold) and it holds up really well. It is thin but really protects from the cold. I believe this links to the jacket but go to any local store and you will find a huge selection of great outerwear that you can pack without much space.

http://www.rei.com/product/746520?vcat=REI_SSHP_WOMENS_CLOTHING_TOC

I bought a tan gortex jacket from Lands End about 5 years ago. Its very light weight, folds up into a 8 x 6 inch package, and does not wrinkle. Its the only jacket I take when I travel and Ive used it winter, spring, summer. Its tailored enough to look decent when dressy, but casual too. Last time I checked lands end still had them on line.

Thank you all for the great replies and info. I do have a north face waterproof shell jacket which I will out over the Patagonia el cap jacket I ordered. Seems like I'll be covered--no pun. Also taking a poncho and perhaps a small unbrella but it's starting to be overkill.

Thanks again.

Don't bother bringing an umbrella. Everywhere I've been, magically, when it starts to rain, cheap umbrellas appear for sale. If you never need one, that's room in your bag for souvenirs!

Ro...it is warm there in June and July. Light covering is al you need. We took a light weight fleece jacket and only used it in the higher areas of Switzerland. Save the room for something else.

I think the El Cap jacket is a great idea. They are very lightweight, nice looking, and pack small. You may or may not need it, but every time I've been anywhere in Europe in the summer I've needed to pull out my fleece at some point. Better to take it along and not need it, than to have to go searching for something suitable if it turns cold and wet.