Packing for any holiday can be stressful. People always seems to have a niggling concern that they’re going to forget something crucial. Rarely is this the case in reality. But, to help ease any stress, here’s our ultimate Italy packing list. We’ve made sure to highlight the top things we recommend you take on your next trip to Italy.
However, before you start packing, it’s always a good idea to check that you have suitable luggage. Italy’s cities are characterised by beautiful cobbled streets and often have steps linking these meandering alleys. As quaint as they are, they are not always friendly towards suitcases with wheels! For this reason, we opt to travel with cases that also have the option to be carried on your back. Often this is only necessary for a short walk or to nip up some steps and can be so much easier than lugging a case or worse still damaging the wheels. Our favorites are from Cabin Max. There are various models in different sizes. We particularly like the Manhattan and for the kids the Mini-Max has proved to be perfect.Â
First and foremost, on your Italy packing list, make sure you include some travel adaptors. Italy operates on 230V/50Hz system. Appliances with a voltage of 220-240V can be used here with the correct adapter. There are three plug types in Italy â types C, F and L. Plug type C has 2 round pins, plug type F has 2 round pins with 2 earth clips on the side and plug type L has three round pins. We would recommend buying a multi-region travel adaptor. This way you can travel between countries and regions of the world and always have the correct charger. Click here to get yours. You may also want to take a portable power bank with you to ensure that you can charge up when youâre out and about. Click here to buy yours in advance.Â
Next, here’s what we suggest when in comes to what clothes to include in your Italy packing list. In terms of what to wear, visitors to Italy are often struck by how smart Italians dress. Itâs summed up by the saying âLa Bella Figuraâ which is best explained by reading the fantastic novel by Kamin Mohammadi. Clothes are classic and stylish and there is a strong emphasis on accessorising, whether with a scarf, headwear or sunglasses. The other thing youâre bound to notice is how swiftly the Italians will don their Winter coats. Italians seem to be obsessed with catching a chill! Tourists may still find the weather positively balmy but the locals can already have their puffer jackets on!
Most visitors to Italy will also find that they spend a lot of time exploring on foot. Many of the streets may also be uneven and cobbled. As a result, wear sensible and comfortable shoes. Restrict flip-flops to days on the beach. And restrict sportswear to the gym! Dress smartly but comfortably if you donât want to stand out.
Do also remember that Italy is a Roman Catholic country. Avoid baring lots of flesh and opt for a longer skirt length. If visiting the churches or cathedrals, remember that shoulders and knees will need to be covered.
One way to help you be more organised when packing is to invest in some packing cubes. These are a great way to both organise your packing but also to compact clothing into as small a space as possible. Take a look at our favourites on Amazon.
Besides this, a camera is a must! We have recently enjoyed using a Go-Pro to capture our holiday memories. It’s great to be easily able to create videos and we LOVE the waterproof case to record memories in the pool and the sea. Click here to get yours.
Finally, it can be thirsty work when sightseeing particularly in the peak Summer months. Avoid single-use plastics by investing in a water bottle. There are also plenty of water fountains all over Italy where you can fill up during the day. This is one of our favourites, as it keeps water ice-cold all day. Click here to get yours.
