What To Pack For Italy: 30 Essentials Every Woman Needs For Italy

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Are you packing for Italy? You came to the right place because I can help you decide what to wear year-round!

You’re probably wondering what you should bring along. Packing for Italy can be tricky; you want to bring all the essentials without overpacking.

To help, we’ve compiled a list of luxury must-haves that every fashionable woman should consider bringing on her trip.

From the best walking shoes to the must-have items for a chic look, you’ll surely find everything you need for a stylish and successful trip.

Many women are unsure of what to pack for Italy, but this guide will prepare you for your vacation in any region. 

I’ve created this Italy packing list for Rome, Florence, and the Amalfi Coast to ensure a stress-free trip and that you don’t forget any essentials.

My packing list will guide you through what to pack for Italy and give you some tips on dressing so you won’t look out of place or like a complete tourist.   

This Italy packing list is not a size fits all, but it will help every traveler with the basics of what to pack for Italy, from clothing, shoes, personal items, and toiletries.

I have come up with a list of do’s and don’ts that are essential for every woman traveling to Italy, whether traveling solo, with your hubby, or on a girls’ trip.

The links in this post may be affiliate links.  That means that if you click them and make a purchase, this site makes a commission.  It will have no impact on the price you pay or the experience of your purchase.

I want you to have a stress-free travel experience while exploring Italy, and the goal of this article is to help you plan what to pack for Italy so you will not be unprepared for your vacation.

After you finish reading this article, you will know how to dress, what to pack, and most importantly, what to leave at home so you can have room in your luggage for souvenirs.

As a bonus, you will also learn some safety tips, including how to stay in Italy, along with anti-theft products that will keep you and your belongings safe.

The Ultimate Italy Packing List: What to Bring and How to Pack Light

When it comes to packing for a trip to Italy, it’s important to strike the right balance between bringing all the essentials and not overpacking.

After all, who wants to lug around heavy suitcases while trying to explore the beautiful streets of Rome or enjoy a leisurely gondola ride in Venice?

Start by choosing versatile clothing items that can be mixed and matched, focusing on neutral colors to create various outfits.

Consider the season and weather conditions and which part of Itay you will be visiting but generally, lightweight layers work well.

I always pack breathable fabrics like cotton and linen to stay comfortable in the Mediterranean climate. Pack more comfortable walking shoes for exploring cobblestone streets and historical sites vs. heels and wedges that will never be worn.

Toiletries can be downsized by using travel-sized containers or purchasing essentials upon arrival.

Leave room in your suitcase for some beautiful Italian linens, pants, dresses, and souvenirs because trust you will always find something you want to buy.

Pack a compact travel adapter and a universal charger to keep your devices powered while exploring Italy.

By packing light and efficiently, you’ll fully enjoy Italy’s beauty without being weighed down by unnecessary luggage.

Here are some of my top suggestions for packing when vacationing in Italy.

What to Pack for Italy Basics

I have divided this Italy packing list into categories: travel documents/cash, luggage, inflight essentials, clothes, shoes, toiletries, makeup, bags, gadgets, and accessories.

You need to consider all these things when considering packing for your trip to Italy.

• The time of year you are visiting Italy and the weather
• How much walking will you do?
• How much luggage do you want to take?
• Your style

“Must-Pack” Essentials Before You Depart for Italy

These items are the ones you absolutely must pack for your trip to Italy.

Passport—It is a good practice to have a passport with at least 6 months of validity. Make sure you make copies of your passport. I also suggest taking a picture of your passport, storing the image on your phone, and purchasing a sturdy passport holder.

Visa – Ensure you have read and understood the visa requirements for your nationality.  

Insurance—Do not forget to organize insurance for your trip. It’s one of those things that you probably won’t use but is essential if something goes wrong on your travels. For example, I got extremely sick in the Czech Republic, which was the one time I didn’t purchase insurance.

Lesson learned! From that point on, I used and recommended Allianz Travel Insurance because it is easy to organize and file a claim online. 

Allianz Travel Insurance offers both a basic package and a prime package

AllTrips Basic

The AllTrips Basic plan is perfect if you know you won’t cancel your trip, but you want to be covered for emergency medical care and emergency medical transportation protection while you’re traveling. 

Additional benefits of the primary insurance plan include trip delay protection, baggage coverage, rental car insurance, and a 24/7 assistance hotline for travel-related emergencies.

Rates start at around $130 for the basic plan.  

The AllTrips Premier plan 

If you are planning a trip to Italy with your family, I suggest the Premier Insurance plan. This plan covers everyone in your household just in case you need to cancel, someone needs emergency medical care, or your luggage is lost or stolen. 

Rates for the AllTrips Premier plan start around $450.00 which is cheaper than the deductible with my current insurance through my employer. 

I don’t want to sound like a broken record, but if you are going on excursions in Italy, I really suggest purchasing Allianz Travel Insurance because you just never know what might happen.

You must be prepared, so Click here for the AllTrips Premier plan!

Money — I recommend bringing two credit cards (one to use, and one to keep as a backup), and your debit card.

Make sure you use credit cards with no foreign transaction fees.

For the life of GAWD, do not exchange money in the airport.

I withdrew money from the ATM when we arrived, but you can purchase euros at your bank if it makes you feel more comfortable.

Suitcase

Reyleo Hard luggage with USB Port: Thanks to its size and material, this carry-on suitcase is perfect for a trip to Italy.

It has some give for extra souvenirs, and most importantly, it has two USB ports for charging your iPhone or Macbook.

In-Flight Essentials

When preparing for a flight to Italy, your in-flight essentials should balance comfort and entertainment for your holiday to Italy.

Start with the basics: a neck pillow, eye mask, and earplugs to help you rest during the flight.

Don’t forget to pack a cozy, lightweight blanket for added comfort. Staying hydrated is crucial, so carry a reusable water bottle that you can fill up after security.

In your personal bag, have your passport, travel documents, and any necessary visas easily accessible.

Entertainment-wise, load up your tablet or e-reader with books, movies, or TV shows, and bring noise-canceling headphones to drown out any crying babies.

It’s wise to pack some snacks like granola bars, nuts, or dried fruits for those mid-flight cravings.

Lastly, include a toiletry pouch with essentials like a toothbrush, toothpaste, facial wipes, and lip balm to freshen up before landing.

Packaging these in-flight essentials will prepare you for an enjoyable flight to Italy.

• Bang & Olufsen Noise-Cancelling Over-Ear Headphones and Airplane Adapter
• Travel Pillow.
• Sleeping Mask.
• A pair of socks.
• Ipad
• Camera
• Hand sanitizer

Clothing

I don’t know about y’all, but comfort is of utmost importance to me on vacation, but that doesn’t mean I can or should ignore the cultural norms of the destination. 

When deciding what to wear in Italy, it’s important to consider both style and practicality.

Whether strolling through the charming streets of Florence or sipping a cappuccino in a café in Rome, you’ll want to ensure your outfits are appropriate and comfortable.

First and foremost, it’s important to remember that Italians take pride in their appearance and tend to dress more formally than in many other countries.

You won’t need a full formal dress but I highly suggest dressing slightly more polished than you would for a casual outing back home. Leave the baggy jogging pants at home.

Opt for well-fitted clothing and avoid anything too revealing or casual. A good rule of thumb is to avoid wearing shorts or flip-flops unless you’re at the beach.

The weather in Italy can vary depending on the region and the time of year, so it’s important to check the forecast before packing.

The summers are hot, and the winters are mild. During the summer months, lightweight and breathable fabrics like cotton, linen, and silk are your best bet.

I suggest a cute sundress, a pair of tailored shorts, and a few breezy blouses as your top Italy packing must-haves.

In the cooler months, layering is key. A lightweight sweater or cardigan paired with a jacket or coat will keep you warm while still looking chic.

Don’t forget to bring a scarf, as it can be a practical accessory for warmth and a fashionable addition to your outfit.

I prefer neutral colors and classic patterns that can easily mix and match my wardrobe.

Lastly, when it comes to footwear, choose comfortable yet stylish options that will allow you to easily navigate the cobblestone streets of Italy.

A pair of ankle boots, loafers, or designer sneakers are versatile choices that can be dressed up or down. Avoid wearing heels unless necessary, as walking on those cobblestones can be highly uncomfortable.

By dressing appropriately for Italian culture and weather, you’ll fit in with the locals and feel confident and comfortable while exploring Italy.

Both churches and museums require shoulders to be covered, and signs outside many churches detail which clothes are permitted and which are not.

Shorts, bare arms, low-cut dresses, and short skirts are usually not permitted for women and shorts, bare arms, and tank tops for men.

Men should remove their hats when they enter a church.

Please Make sure you address appropriately when visiting churches.  

Basic Clothing Packing List

• 3 Basic Tank Tops
• 3 Basic T-Shirts
• 3 Blouses — Nice Dress up blouses for dinner
• 3 Dresses — You need sleeves to go into churches.
• 2 Pairs of Skinny Jeans
• 1 Lightweight Jacket — For spring, summer, or fall.
• 5 Pairs of Panties — You can wash out easily.
• 2 Yoga Pants —  hiking or lounging around.
• 2 Swimsuit — The Amalfi Coast is amazing!
• 1 travel wrap —  Double as a wrap for churches and when it gets cool at night.
• 3 Sweaters — For early spring or late fall. (Gets pretty chilly in the spring) 

Shoes

Flats or Low-heeled, stylish, leather walking shoes and casual sneakers are great options. They can easily transition from exploring the Roman ruins to a lovely Italian restaurant.

Leave the boots at home. They are too heavy to pack, and the cobblestones in Italy are brutal on your feet.

Please don’t try to wear boots, high heels, or flip-flops while exploring the ruins.   

Italians produce some of the world’s most fashionable shoes, so leave room in your luggage to purchase shoes from a local leather shop. And don’t forget to negotiate! 

• Tory Burch Napa Leather Sandal: Great for dinner or casually strolling through Italian towns
• Women’s Gazelle sneakers: Comfortable sneakers are a must if you’re packing for a trip to Italy, between snorkeling. You’ll need a sturdy and comfortable pair for hiking or walking on cobblestones at Pompeii.
• Calvin Klein Ballet Flats: These casual yet stylish ballet flats are perfect for dinner or a night out on the town.
• Tory Burch Espadrilles: Pack your favorite pair of flip-flops for the beach.
• New Balance Sneaker: These breathable sneakers are great for day excursions and days when you’ll be walking a lot. 

Beach Essentials

If you’re traveling to Italy during summer, you might want to spend time in Amalfi,  Capri, or one of the other amazing towns off the coast lounging at a beach. 

Italy’s beaches are very crowded in the summer, so make sure you have all the beach essentials when packing for Italy.

If you plan on staying near Amalfi or Cinque Terre in July or August, you should know the beaches and hotels are packed. Please book your hotel well in advance because rooms fill up quickly.

Swim Cover-Up or Caftan

A swimsuit cover is perfect for the beach or a yacht tour to explore the grottos.  While the Italians are not shy about their bodies, I need mine covered up because I am not that one! 

Water Shoes 

The beaches on the coast can be full of rocks and coral, so make sure you pack a pair of slip-on mesh beach shoes that will protect your sensitive feet.  

These shoes come in a range of great colors – click here for more information.

Beach Towel 

I recommend packing a light beach towel that dries fast and will not take up much space. Check out this cute and chic beach towel. 

 Snorkel Set 

My husband loves to go snorkeling, and if you are on the coast, the Grottos are a must, so don’t forget you will need a good quality snorkel kit.

We have our own, and it packs perfectly in our luggage. Check out these bestseller snorkel sets from Amazon here.

Floating Device 

Who doesn’t want to be Instagram famous?  Bring along one of these super cute gold Pegasus Float. Check out this one from Amazon here.

Beach Bag 

You will need a beach bag to store your sunscreen, shades, beach towels, and other items. Check out the KEHO Canvas Beach Bag here.

Underwater Camera 

If you’re heading to the coast, take an underwater camera for those underwater shots, especially if you are going snorkeling or visiting the Grottos. Click here to check out the GoPro Hero 7 Camera.

Waterproof Phone Pouch  

iPhones take excellent videos and photos, and if you don’t want to spend money on a GoPro, just use your mobile phone. Check out this best-seller phone pouch here.

Toiletries

• Mosquito-Repellent Bracelet: Yes, Italy has mosquitos so you will need a repellent – Avoid chemicals and the smell of DEET bug spray by just wearing a bracelet.
• Good Vibes Only Sun Kit: This convenient, travel-sized kit includes sunscreen, after-sun lotion, lip balm, and face sunscreen. If you travel to Italy in the summer, please remember that the sun is brutal! 
• Hand Sanitizer: I am not a germaphobe but I prefer not to be sick while traveling so please use hand sanitizer as often as possible.

Makeup Essentials for Italy

• Moisturiser
• Foundation
• Eye Pencil
• Blush/bronzer
• Makeup brushes
• Lipstick/gloss
• Face Cleanser

• Hairstyling products
• Hairbrush/comb
• Hairbands

• Deodorant
• Toothbrush
• Toothpaste/floss
• Feminine hygiene products
• Nail file/scissors

Handbags or Purse

• Tory Burch Canvas Crossbody Bag: This chic anti-theft bag is perfect for dressing up or down in Italy.

Travel Gadgets

• Universal Adapter: If you are traveling out of the country, this item is very helpful to have to ensure that you can properly charge all of your devices, as it has multiple power adapter options all in one unit.
• GoPro Hero 7: This camera is great to take on your travels, as it’s small, durable, and allows you to capture pictures and videos of your entire journey, both in the water and out.
• Anker Portable Phone Charger: Pack a portable charger to keep your phone charged after taking all those amazing Italy Instagramable photos.
• Selfie Stick with Tripod: For what to pack for Italy for your phone, you should make sure you have a selfie stick with a tripod to take all of those awesome selfies.  

Accessories

• Caftan: A caftan does double duty on a trip to Italy. It can be used as a blanket or shawl on a yacht excursion or at dinner and as a bathing suit cover-up at the beach or poolside.
• Chloe Sunglasses: This pair is both stylish, practical, and fashionable. 
• Fedora Hat: This is essential for sun protection. A crushable style means you don’t have to worry about it when stuffing it into your suitcase.
• Zippered Canvas Reusable Tote: I was happy to have a reusable tote on my Italy packing list for the beach to store my things.

What Not To Forget To Pack For Italy

• Pain Relief: you know what works best for you? Bring your favorite products from home for headaches, joint, and muscle pain
• Constipation Relief: Travelers’ constipation is natural, and you don’t want to be uncomfortable while on vacation.  
• Pancho: Any sort of thin layering piece is ideal for mild nights in Italy.
• Laundry detergent Sheets – Keep your clothes smelling fresh and you will be able to wear certain items more than once.
• Sea Bands & Non-Drowsy Dramamine—If you’re prone to motion sickness, I strongly recommend adding Sea-Bands to your Italy packing list, especially if you are taking excursions to see the grottos or a day trip to Capri. 
• Take some Non-Drowsy Dramamine and wear the sea band to avoid becoming seasick. 

What to leave at home

I am not one of those people who can pack for two weeks in a carry-on but after years of traveling, I have learned to leave a few things behind. 

Leave items you will probably not use, items that will be extra heavy or can be found easily at your destination.

• Valuables: Leave anything flashy at home to avoid being a pickpocket target.
• Warm Clothing: This one’s a given, but you don’t need any warm clothing items for Italy unless you are traveling in the winter months.
• Full-sized shampoo and conditioner – too heavy, take up too much room, and will weigh your luggage down.
• Guidebooks—You don’t need to carry a guidebook around. Read it before downloading Rick Steves’s Best of Italy ebook.
• Hairdryer – most hotels provide hair dryers.
• Books– I am on the fence about books because I am old school and I love to hold books or magazines in my hand but some are extremely heavy so you can invest in a Kindle or download the books to your iPad or phone.

Packing For Italy – Weather 

Always, always check the weather forecast a week before your trip to see what is in store when planning what to wear in Italy.  

Nothing will ruin your trip quicker than not being prepared for rain in Florence or the blistering heat of Pompeii. 

After you have researched the weather, you can begin to create an Instagram-worthy travel wardrobe that will fit easily in your suitcase.

I suggest using packing cubes to store outfits by the day of the week. 

Here is a guide to the average conditions – Check the forecast for the regions you visit.  

Summer [June/July/August] – Italy Weather

Summers in Italy tend to be warm to very hot and extremely high humidity. Expect temperatures between 77°F and 86°F.

August is typically Italy’s hottest month, coupled with high humidity in many parts of the country.

You might think hot weather is no big deal, but remember that even on hot days in the U.S. you usually sit inside an air-conditioned house instead of trying to ensure you have not missed important historical sites. 

Always check the current extended forecast for where you’re going just before you leave so you can find out in advance if it’s unseasonably cold and you will need a light jacket or a trench coat.

Fall/Autumn [September/October/November] – Italy Weather

Fall temperatures are ideal for sightseeing, with generally warm sunny days and cooler nights. Top temperatures range between 65°F and 75°F.

I’m defining fall as the months of September, October, and November in Italy, but that doesn’t mean that temperatures cool off and leaves will start turning on September 1.

September is often as warm as August, though the evenings tend to begin to cool off just a little. 

By October, it’s starting to feel like fall in Italy, and November is Italy’s rainiest month, so make sure to pack an umbrella. 

Like spring, fall is a transitional season, which means you’ve got to be prepared for some weather variations. So, make sure you check and double-check the weather the week before your departure.

Autumn temperatures will differ depending on what month you’re visiting and where in the country you’ll be (the northern parts are nearly always much more relaxed than the southern parts).

Winter [December/January/February] – Italy Weather

Italy has cool to cold days and nights in winter, with snow and sub-zero temperatures in the Alpine regions. There are also some rainy days. High temperatures range between 50°F and 55°F.

December isn’t always Italy’s coldest month, but it’s close. Snow is common in many parts of the country, particularly in the mountains, higher elevations, and even sometimes at sea level. 

Snow falling in Venice is one of the most beautiful winter scenes you’ll see in Italy and where it’s not snowing, it’s likely to be raining.

December/January/February is an odd mix of travelers because of the thin crowds and many visitors want to spend Christmas in Italy to see Vatican City specifically.   

Just remember that while the crowds are not as congested as in the summer months, many people worldwide have the same lifelong dream of spending Christmas in Italy.

You should plan and book your trip well in advance to get the best deal on a hotel room. 

Spring – [March/April/May] – Italy Weather

Spring in Italy is lovely. The temperatures at this time of year average between 60°F and 75°F. It is also the season when you are most likely to experience rain.

Early May tends to be more temperate, though remember that the weather gets warmer as you go south. 

In May, the Mediterranean was still too cold for me, but I saw plenty of people jumping right in. If you can stand cooler temperatures, make sure you pack a swimsuit just in case you decide to hit the beach.  

Remember that even if the days are warm, the nights might cool off enough that you’ll want a light layer for your walk back from your late-night dinner.

Rain isn’t unheard of, either, so check the forecast to see whether you’ll need to pack a small umbrella or rain jacket.

May is the start of the high season in Italy, and with the high season comes higher prices and bigger crowds.

Crowds in the main tourist cities still grow in June and July, so make sure you bring comfortable walking shoes.

Also, click here if you need my Travel packing List. You can find everything from drones, Snorkeling Gear, Hiking, Back packs, Cargo Pants, and more for your Next Trip.

Final Thoughts and Recommendations:

Now that you have all the information you need on what to pack for your trip to Italy, it’s time for some final thoughts and recommendations.

First and foremost, remember to prioritize the essentials. These are the items that you need to have with you in Italy.

From comfortable walking shoes to versatile clothing, make sure you have these must-haves on your packing list.

Next, don’t forget to add a touch of luxury to your suitcase. Italy is the perfect place to embrace fashion and showcase your style.

So why not pack a designer handbag, a pair of stylish sunglasses, or some statement jewelry?

These luxury must-haves will elevate your outfits and make you feel like a fashionista while exploring the streets of Italy.

Regarding packing light, it’s all about being smart and strategic. Choose versatile pieces that can be mixed and matched, and consider layering your clothing for different weather conditions.

Remember to pack travel-sized toiletries and roll your clothes to maximize space. And if you find yourself running out of clean clothes, don’t hesitate to do laundry during your trip.

Lastly, ensure you have the essentials for exploring Italy’s cities and countryside.

A good map or navigation app, a comfortable day bag, sturdy walking shoes, a portable charger, and a reusable water bottle are all essential items that will enhance your travel experience.

So, whether you’re planning to visit the historical sites of Rome, explore the vineyards of Tuscany, or relax by the canals of Venice, make sure you have your Italy packing must-haves with you.

With the right items in your suitcase, you’ll be prepared for any adventure and ready to create unforgettable memories in the beautiful country of Italy.

Don’t forget to purchase your Allianz Travel Insurance as well! 

Ready to plan your trip? Grab my FREE  Vacation Planner to help you plan your trip in the time it takes to watch your favorite TV show!

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Here are some of the most popular articles about travel in Italy

15 Dreamiest Towns on the Amalfi Coast

15 Awesome Must-Take Day Trips From Florence

The Best Boutique Hotels in Rome

Do you struggle with what to pack? I hope my Italy packing list has prepared you for your next vacation.  I would love to hear your thoughts so leave me a comment on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.

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