Packing Tips for Your Trip to Italy

You’ve finally planned your long-awaited trip to Italy. Your flights are secured, and accommodations are in place. With everything ready to go, the next vital step is to decide what to pack. Here, you will find practical packing advice to help you determine what to bring, what to buy before leaving, and what to leave behind. In addition to your essentials—like your passport, phone, money, medicine, and toiletries—consider the following key items when preparing for la bella Italia.

The Most Important Thing to Consider: Shoes

It’s surprising how much time you’ll spend on your feet in Italy. Therefore, packing a practical and comfortable pair of walking shoes is essential. It’s time to put an end to the myth that wearing trainers or sneakers marks you as a tourist. Many Italians wear casual yet stylish athletic-style footwear, such as Supergas, an Italian sneaker brand.

Cobblestones can wreak havoc on heels and ankles. With so much to see and experience, comfort is key. In some locations, like Cinque Terre, wearing flip flops or sandals is not permitted. A sturdy pair of shoes designed for walking on uneven terrain will enhance your enjoyment of the stunning Italian landscape.

Dress Code: Smart Casual

In fashion-conscious Italy, appearances hold significance. Thus, adopting a casual chic style is ideal for dining at city restaurants. Many prominent religious sites maintain dress codes; therefore, if you intend to visit places like St. Peter’s Basilica or Venice’s Basilica di San Marco, be sure to cover your shoulders, torso, and thighs. A large scarf or wrap can solve these concerns and serve as a cozy blanket on flights.

What to Bring by Season

Summer

When visiting in summer, pack shorts, T-shirts, and sandals for sightseeing and lounging at the beach. A wide-brimmed hat is a lifesaver when exploring archaeological sites with little shade. Furthermore, don’t forget sunglasses, sunscreen, and insect repellent to combat the heat and bugs of the Italian summer.

Fall

In fall, expect occasional rain and cooler weather. In addition to cobblestone-friendly shoes, consider a light sweater and waterproof jacket. Dressing in layers will provide comfort and adaptability.

Winter

As the saying goes, “there’s no bad weather, only bad clothing.” Prepare for the cold with a warm coat, scarf, hat, and gloves. Don’t forget an umbrella, as it can be quite wet.

Spring

In spring, layering is essential, but opt for lighter layers that can be removed if the weather warms up. Bring along a light sweater or waterproof jacket, and remember that mosquitoes start to emerge in March—so, insect repellent is a necessity!

Make Sure You Bring Adapters

In Italy, the standard 2-prong EU Type C plug operates at 230V. If you’re traveling from a country with a different voltage, using a converter is advisable to prevent damaging your electronics. Additionally, check if your electronics come with plug adapters for various devices. For example, Apple offers a World Traveler kit, which includes essential plug types.

A Manageable Suitcase: Packing Relatively Light

Managing a large suitcase on cobblestones, up staircases, and onto trains can be quite a challenge. To avoid hassle, ensure your luggage is easy to handle. Remember that airlines have different weight, size, and carry-on regulations, and rental cars generally offer limited trunk space. Be sure to verify these details prior to your trip.

Check the weather and create a list of the outfits you plan to wear. Then, reassess and remove any items you’re uncertain about. Ask yourself, “Am I packing this because I need it, or because I’m feeling anxious or excited?” This reflection can steer you towards packing only essentials.

Don’t worry about wearing the same light sweater multiple days in a row. Laundry services are widely available and tend to be more affordable than checking an extra bag with low-cost airlines.

Bringing Home Olive Oil and Wine

One of Italy’s greatest delights is the opportunity to bring home exquisite olive oil, truffles, and exceptional wine. If you plan on purchasing larger bottles, pack them in your checked luggage unless you intend to ship them. Wine Angels are a superb way to safely pack bottles in your regular suitcase, as they ziplock shut to prevent leakage in case of breakage.

Lastly, if you plan on doing significant shopping, consider packing an extra expandable tote for your return journey.

This article was last updated on May 4, 2024.