Packing List for Italy: 10 Things You Shouldn't Forget

5. Additional things to take to Italy: your finest clothes

In the beginning, we advised that you pack light, and we stand by that. However, if you’re planning to hang out in the evenings, say on a Private Lake Como Day Tour from Milan by Car, consider bringing some slightly dressier clothes.

Although you’ll be dressed smart-casual during the day, Italians love to get dressed up, and in the evenings, you’ll see the locals hanging out in high heels, dresses and collared shirts. This is a great opportunity to show off your finery.

What electronics to pack for a trip to Italy

Traveling to Italy doesn't mean you have to leave all your gadgets behind. Here's a list of essential electronics to consider packing for your Italian adventure.

6. Bring to Italy your proper camera

Between the ancient ruins, the historic buildings, the jaw-dropping scenery and the dramatic landscapes, this is not a trip to leave your camera at home for. You’ll be whipping it out around every corner to take all the photos that will help you remember this trip for a lifetime.

Imagine yourself taking in the galleries of the Vatican, admiring Michaelangelo’s David in Florence, or the winding beauty of Sorrento in the Amalfi Coast (all possible on this incredible 9 Day Semi-Private Rome, Florence & Amalfi coast Vacation Package). You’ll never regret taking your good camera to record that beauty.

7. Adaptors, chargers & a portable charger and other things to take to Italy

If you’re like most of us, you’ll have an arsenal of electronic gadgets that need to be charged and kept going throughout your trip. Depending on where you’re travelling from, you may need an adaptor to accommodate your chargers. European plugs are 220V to 230V, with two round prongs.

We’d also recommend taking along a lightweight, compact portable charger. There’s nothing worse than Google mapping your way across Venice when your battery runs out and strands you in a dim alleyway. On that note, if navigating yourself around doesn’t sound like too much fun, check out our Venice Sightseeing Tours and we’ll show you the ropes.

What are you forgetting to pack for Italy? Probably these items

8. Please bring to Italy sunglasses & sunscreen

This feels like a no-brainer in summer, but it’s just as valid every day of the year. Italy is sunny for a large majority of the year, and if you’re going to be outside for any part of the day (including walking to and from your car) you should be wearing sunscreen.

Sure, you can pick up sunscreen and sunglasses in most cities, but remembering your own will save you time and money (especially if you wear prescription specs!). Pack them into your daypack and reapply the sunscreen frequently. Sunburn (and a squint) just isn’t a good look.

And don’t forget, it’s especially important to wear sunglasses and sunscreen when you’re in the snowy, winter Dolomites! Light reflects off the snow, so you can get burned from two sides.

9. Water bottle and your reusable coffee cup

Should you bring a water bottle to Italy? We’ve mentioned it before, but in the interests of making sure you’re travelling sustainably, we’ll highlight it again. It’s important to stay hydrated (and caffeinated) when you’re traveling.

Rather than spending your hard-earned Euros on bottled water, bring your own and refill it. Especially if you are wondering what to pack for 10 days in Italy, whether you go to Rome, Venice or Florence (or all three in this 9-Day Semi Private Italy Vacation Package: Rome, Venice and Florence) you’ll find ample opportunity to keep your bottle full.

Italy also has a huge coffee culture. Locals prefer to order their espresso and drink it standing up at the coffee bar. But if you’re on the go and prefer to order your coffee to go, consider bringing along your own cup. They come in all shapes, sizes, and materials, and should pack easily into your daypack.

Oh, and remember: Italians only order milky coffee, like cappuccino or caffè latte, at breakfast time.

What to take to Italy: our final advice

When packing for Italy, the key is to consider the season and pack versatile clothing that suits the weather you'll encounter.

10. Dress for the region and the season

Whenever you’re planning on visiting Italy, remember to dress for the region and the season. You might picture Italy as the land of chilled Prosecco and Aperol Spritz, but the reality is that it gets cold and wet for most of the winter. It even snows up in the Small Group Venice to Dolomites and Cortina Day Trip, so pack your cold and wet weather gear!

In the summer, especially if you plan to be near the beach, pack in a couple of swimming costumes and cover-ups. It’s possible to be prepared without packing the kitchen sink if you plan ahead.

What not to pack for Italy?

Packing for a trip to Italy? Let's talk about what to leave behind. Pack smart, travel light, and leave plenty of room for all that Italian shopping you'll be doing. Trust us, your back (and your luggage) will thank you later!

Packing for Italy: are you ready to go?

So, there you have it. Ten things you should pack and remember for your trip to Italy, no matter the region, season or destination. We hope this helps you plan, both your itinerary and your packing list. We can’t wait to hear how you found our motherland!

If you’re ready to start planning your trip to Italy, get in touch! We’re ready to answer all your questions and help you plan everything from day-trips to multi-day holidays where everything is taken care of.

See you soon!