Looking for a packing guide for traveling to Italy? This list will give you the “musts” to bring to Rome and beyond. Read the blog to find out more!
Italy has a mostly Mediterranean climate with a mountainous North. Even into October, the temperatures can be quite warm. However, it can be cooler in cities like Milan and Venice during that time. Wearing the right clothes can save a lot of miserable travel days! After reading through this guide, you will be thoroughly prepared to tackle the Italy weather.
Packing is always a bit of a challenge for me. I want to anticipate every situation, and in doing so I tend to over-pack. I like to be prepared for any season or adventure, no matter where I was going.
One of the things that helped me most is packing in layers. Also, outfits I can mix and match. If you have ever had the same struggles as I have, or just would like to know what to pack for visiting Italy, this packing guide is for you!
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Climate In Italy
So when is the best time to visit Italy? In the high season, you will battle with hot sunny days and high prices. In the low season, it may be cooler and have fewer tourists, but it could mean many attractions are not open (coastal areas).
High Season (July & August)
Prices rise for Christmas, New Year, and Easter.
Usually, average temperatures are in the mid-70s F, though highs can reach into the 80s F.
Shoulder Season (April-June & September-October)
Going from the mid-50s to mid-70s in the spring, I recommend wearing layers.
Temperatures cool down gradually in the fall, so September is still very pleasant, with an average of around 77F. Expect crisp fall leaves and some sunnier days, but plan for wet weather too.
Low Season (November-March)
Prices are up to 30% lower than in the high season.
In Rome, the coldest month is January. Averages are reported as low as 46F.
Carry On VS Checked Bag
The suitcase I use most is the Away Carry-On or Away Medium. I have been able to pack a few week’s worth of clothes in both suitcases. However, sometimes the larger, overnight European flights can get a bit full. If you want to save money, but don’t want the hassle of bringing your bag on board, take your carry-on bag through security. But have the airline check it at the gate! Here is a list of everything you need to pack for Italy:
Tops and Bottoms
I am a firm believer in layers. Fall in Italy can still be warm, as well as we; it is best to wear some sort of a cooler, lightweight base layer. I recommend bringing a few sweaters along with some light jackets for the cooler evenings. That way, as the sun goes down, and the temperatures start to drop, you can wear a sweater or jacket. Be sure to check the weather on a day-to-day basis. Bring outfits to mix and match as well (this will save space in your suitcase too).
Socks and Shoes
If you plan on exploring Rome, Milan, or any city in Italy, I recommended bringing a comfortable walking shoe. They are great for the airport as well! You can also bring a more stylish, but perhaps less comfortable shoe for a night out or an inside kind of day.
Jacket and Rain Jacket
Bring a light jacket for those cooler mornings and evenings. If you are planning on visiting the North like Lake Como, it can get windy on the water. My favorite is this one from North Face!
It is essential you bring a rain jacket to Italy. The chances may be slim, but it is best to prepare for any situation. My favorite rain jacket is the Venture from North Face.
If you plan on doing any outdoor excursions, I recommend bringing a hat as well. When visiting the Colosseum and the Forum, there is little to no shade.
PJs and a comfortable airport outfit are the last articles of clothing I pack in my bag. (I typically wear the same outfit on the flight there as well as on the flight home). I usually freeze in hotel rooms, however, some hotels in Italy do not have AC. So keep that in mind as you pack your clothes for the night.
Last but not least, to keep all my clothes and outfits organized I use packing cubes! These are my favorite ones!
Hotel Items
To feel like I am at home and to be absolutely comfortable in a hotel room, here are the essential items I pack:
Slippers (I have smaller footies I pack if I am just using my carry-on)
Pillow Case (Always buy a king size to fit any hotel pillow)
Washcloth (I pack this, so I don’t have to put my face or mouth on any hotel towels)
Antibacterial foam soap (I cannot stand those bars of soap used in hotels, so I bring my own!)
Laundry bag (This one explains itself, keep those dirty clothes separated from your clean ones)
Toiletry Bag
No packing list is complete without the toiletries! If I am only bringing my carry-on, I use this bag. However, if it is a longer trip and I am bringing a checked bag, I use a larger one. The list below is everything I pack:
Shampoo
Conditioner
Body Wash
Razor (Only if I am bringing a checked bag)
Face lotion (I use this at night, but I always pack one with SPF for the day)
Body lotion (Especially after a long flight, you want to moisturize as much as possible)
Toothbrush/Toothpaste/Floss
Contact case/Solution/Glasses case (If needed)
Deodorant
Brush (I use a mini Wet Brush)
Hair products (Buy travel size when you can)
Makeup (I buy travel size, it makes it easier to pack plus it saves a few pennies!)
Makeup remover (I love the individual wipes, they also work great for a face wash, so that is one less item to bring)
Small earrings, just to keep it simple. They bring the outfit together and are stylish if your hair is up.
Side note: I also recommend bringing some sort of allergy medication. I do not suffer from allergies in the United States, however spending a week in nature, when the pollen is strongest, had my throat scratchy and my nose runny. I also like to bring acetaminophen and an antiacid for emergency purposes.
Airplane Bag
For any trip I have my suitcases, I also like to bring an airplane/train bag with all the essentials.
Headphones (These work perfectly for movie watching and are noise canceling!)
A good book (I love my Kindle!)
Passport (Here is one like I use, I can fit my ID, credit cards, and cash)
Blanket (I freeze when I fly)
Save room for any snacks you purchase at the airport and a water bottle.
Extras Essentials For Your Packing List:
Cash (Italy uses Euros and most taxis prefer it).
Sunscreen
Bug spray
Camera (This should be at the top of the list!)
Any electrical charges needed
Remember to bring your adapter if you live outside the EU. I love this one and it works well with my curling iron too!
Thank you for reading!
If you have any specific questions, do not hesitate to comment down below! Or you can email us!
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