A guide for the proper things to add to your luggage
There are few things in the world more exciting than finalizing your trip to Il Bel Paese. As your departure date quickly approaches, you’re faced with a daunting question: what should I pack for Italy?
The items in your luggage will look a lot different depending on the season and where you’re traveling. To look like you fit in, it is important to stay mindful of the Italian style. Here is a packing guide that includes travel essentials and helpful tips so you can relax and keep daydreaming!
TRAVEL ESSENTIALS
Make sure you pack everything you need. Don't forget your passport and your camera! (Photo Credit: Oziel Gómez/ Unsplash)
Passport
You cannot travel overseas without your passport! Make sure it’s stored in a safe place and keep in mind the 6-month rule. Your passport must be valid for another six months before you depart for international travel.
Luggage
It can be very tempting to bring a large suitcase stuffed with all the new clothes, shoes, and accessories you bought for your big trip. However, it’s likely you’ll be hauling your luggage up flights of stairs or even on public transportation. It’s advised that you bring a bag or suitcase light enough for you to carry on your own.
Travel adapter
You will want to pack multiple U.S. to European plug adaptors. It’s convenient to purchase European power adaptors that have American outlets and USB chargers. If you plan on packing an appliance like a blow dryer or electric toothbrush, you’ll need a dual voltage adaptor.
Portable charger
Carrying a small, lightweight, portable charger will ensure you can keep snapping photos and taking videos of the beautiful sites without any battery issues from your electronics.
Medication bottles
If you have prescription medications, make sure to bring them in the original bottle that shows your name and details.
KEY CONSIDERATIONS
When and Where
The destinations on your itinerary and the time of year you plan to travel to Italy will impact what you pack. Will you be traveling to Rome during the hot summer months or to a small mountain village during the winter season? It’s important to research what the typical weather will be in each specific location so you can be prepared and comfortable.
Activities
You might be city hopping and spending most of your time in churches and museums while in Italy. Or, you may be walking, hiking, and biking through the Italian countryside. You’ll want to consider the activities you plan to check off your bucket list so you can pack appropriately.
CLOTHING
Knowing what clothes to pack for when you leave is a trip essential! (Photo Credit: Getty Images)
Arguably, the most important items you should bring with you are comfortable shoes. You will be doing a lot of walking in Italy - no matter where you go, there is truly no way around it. The rough cobblestone and slick marble streets can wreak havoc on flimsy sandals and new shoes. It’s advised to bring shoes with thick soles that can withstand the terrain and that you don’t mind wearing for hours on end.
A crossbody purse is a safe and fashionable way to carry your personal items. It is small enough to fit in your luggage, comfortable to use throughout the day and evening, and a secure choice while you’re on the move.
During the warmer months, women will want to bring strappy sandals and dresses. Men will want to pack lightweight pants, short sleeve shirts that don’t need to be washed daily, and breathable casual dress shirts. It’s always recommended to pack with layers in mind. There are microclimates throughout Italy meaning the temperature can change quickly.
For the cooler months, women should bring a pair of black pants and jeans that can be worn multiple times. Wool items like dresses, sweaters, and tights go with everything and do not require much space in your suitcase. A leather jacket is also a great addition. In terms of shoes, one pair of boots and stylish sneakers will suffice. Men should also bring wool items like long sleeve shirts and sweaters. Long sleeve dress shirts and one nice all-weather jacket will do the trick. Scarves will double as a fashion accessory and an additional layer to keep you warm.
To look like you belong in Italy, avoid wearing gym clothes as day clothes unless you’re planning to do some sort of physical activity, like running or biking. If you plan on visiting a church or cathedral, make sure to carry something that will cover your shoulders and knees. Avoid wearing baseball caps. Flip-flops are meant to be worn at the beach.
HELPFUL TIPS
If you are traveling to Italy during the summer, don’t rely solely on air conditioning as your cooling system. Some accommodations may only have fans available.
If you use your credit card and have the option to pay in USD or Euros, it’s recommended to choose Euros to avoid any transaction fees.
Always have cash on you, particularly Euro bills less than 50€ in value and 1€ and 2€ coins.
The easiest way to access cash is from an ATM (bancomat). It is recommended to take cash from a bancomat that is attached to a bank, like UniCredit. Avoid self-standing ATMs you might see at a souvenir store. You should also avoid converting USD at the airport because the exchange rate and fees are generally much higher than simply going to the bancomat.
To avoid high cellphone bills, you can opt to buy a local SIM card based on your needs.
Most of all, make sure to take a camera and enjoy the surroundings!
Arianna DiCicco
Arianna DiCicco is an educator and writer from California, born into an Italian American restaurant family with strong ties to her grandparents’ home in Abruzzo, Italy. She has lived in San Francisco, Rome and New York City where she’s made deep connections within the Italian communities and gained new perspectives about her own culture. With a Masters in International Education, Arianna has a love and passion for learning and educating others about Italian history & culture.